Canon PowerShot SX740 HS:
The 40x Zoom Tradeoff
The PowerShot SX740 HS packs a 40x optical zoom into a pocket-size body. This guide covers what that reach is good for, where the small sensor pushes back, and what to check before you buy one.
Availability Note
Canon's US store no longer lists the SX740 HS as available, so most buyers will be choosing a used or refurbished unit. Confirm current availability with the seller before you decide.
The specs that matter for zoom shooting
SOURCE: Canon Product Listing & 2018 Launch Announcement
40x Optical Zoom
Focal length 4.3–172.0 mm, equivalent to 24–960 mm.
Dual Sensing IS
Optical Image Stabilizer meant to stabilize at the telephoto end.
Zoom Framing Assist
Helps track a moving subject at full zoom.
DIGIC 8 & 4K Video
Powered by the DIGIC 8 processor; supports 4K video and 4K time-lapse movies.
1/2.3-inch Sensor
20.3-megapixel CMOS sensor. Note: Sensor size is the main performance limit.
Where the reach helps
A 40x zoom in one body lets you cover wide scenes and distant subjects without changing lenses. That matters most when you cannot move closer.
TravelOne camera covers landmarks, street scenes, and landscapes from wide to telephoto.
Outdoor shows and festivalsShooting from the back of a lawn or across a venue is where 40x reach is most useful.
Daytime eventsSports, parades, and wildlife from a distance benefit from the extra reach.
To see how far a given focal length reaches at a venue, use the concert lens reach calculator linked in the header.
Where the small sensor pushes back
The sensor is the main tradeoff. A 1/2.3-inch sensor is small, so image quality in dim conditions and depth-of-field control are limited compared with larger-sensor cameras.
Community Insight / Reddit
"A Reddit discussion of the SX740 HS describes it as the wrong camera for portraits and selfies, and says its very small sensor is a deliberate trade for long zoom reach."
Owner Report / Canon Forum
Frustrated with PowerShot SX740 HS - Blurry Photos. Buyers are advised to check return terms and test sharpness at full zoom before the return window closes.
Is the SX740 HS a fit for how you shoot?
Match your main shooting situation to the rows below.
| Situation | Fit | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Distant subjects at outdoor shows | Good fit | 40x zoom reaches across a field or stage without changing lenses. |
| Travel sightseeing with one camera | Good fit | One body covers wide to telephoto (24–960 mm equivalent). |
| Casual 4K video | Possible | 4K video and 4K time-lapse are listed by Canon. |
| Dim indoor venues | Limited | The small 1/2.3-inch sensor limits low-light results. |
| Portraits and selfies | Weak | Community reports describe it as a poor choice for people shots. |
NOTE: Ratings reflect the published specifications and owner discussions listed on this page. Test on your own subjects before relying on a rating.
What to check before you buy
Exact model: Confirm the listing says PowerShot SX740 HS. Canon sells other long-zoom models with similar names.
Condition: For used or refurbished units, check the condition grade and photos of the lens and LCD.
Included items: Confirm the battery, charger, and cables are included, since listings vary.
Warranty and returns: Check the seller's warranty and return window in writing before you pay.
Firmware and manuals: Canon's US support site lists drivers, downloads, manuals, and firmware for the SX740 HS.
First test: On arrival, shoot at full zoom in daylight, check focus and stabilization, and review sharpness on the LCD and a computer.
"A camera that is sharp at full zoom in daylight is the baseline to judge the rest of the decision against."
OPTICAL
PRECISION
CHECKLIST
Other compact cameras to compare
If the SX740 HS does not match your priorities, compare it with other compact cameras before deciding.
Compare zoom range, sensor size, and the shooting situations you care about most.
Frequently asked questions
Is the PowerShot SX740 HS still sold new?
Canon's US store no longer lists it as available. Check refurbished and used listings, and confirm availability with the seller.
Can I shoot a 40x zoom handheld?
Canon lists Optical Image Stabilizer and Dual Sensing IS for telephoto shooting. Results depend on light and how far you zoom, so test at full zoom before you commit.
Is the SX740 HS good for concerts?
It suits outdoor shows where you shoot from a distance. Dim indoor venues are harder with a small sensor. Use the concert lens reach calculator to check how far your zoom reaches.
Does it record 4K video?
Yes. Canon lists 4K video and 4K time-lapse movie recording.
Can I transfer photos wirelessly?
Canon lists built-in Wi-Fi on the SX740 HS.
Is it a good camera for portraits?
Community reports describe it as a poor choice for people shots because of its small sensor. Compare other compacts in the section above if portraits are your main use.
Choose your next step
If you are still deciding between compact cameras, start with the best digital camera guide.
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