Canon PowerShot SX740 HS Digital Camera, Silver {20.3MP}

Canon SX740 HS: 40x pocket superzoom with 4K video

The SX740 HS packs a 24–960mm equivalent optical zoom into a body that weighs 299g and fits in a jacket pocket. That full 40x range is stabilized optically, and at the long end the Framing Assist button lets you zoom out temporarily to reacquire a subject before snapping back to your working focal length, a practical feature when you're shooting birds or distant subjects at 960mm. The Digic 8 processor pushes continuous shooting to 10fps, a meaningful jump from earlier SX700-series models, and brings 4K video recording to the platform for the first time. For stills, the 20.3MP BSI-CMOS sensor captures across ISO 100–3200, and the tilting 3-inch 922K-dot LCD folds 180 degrees forward for self-shooting.

On the video side, 1080p records up to 60p using the full sensor width with optical stabilization doing solid work even at telephoto focal lengths. The 4K mode pulls from a center crop, which tightens the field of view but extends the effective reach further. A stereo microphone handles audio, and 4K time-lapse recording is also supported. Connectivity covers Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC, with smartphone remote control available through Canon's app. At 110 x 64 x 40mm, this is a camera that goes where a DSLR or mirrorless kit simply won't.

Who It's For

Travel photographers who refuse to check a bag will appreciate a single body covering 24mm wide-angle through 960mm telephoto. Birders and wildlife observers get the 40x optical reach with stabilization that holds steady at the long end, plus the Framing Assist function for tracking moving subjects. Casual videographers benefit from 4K recording and a stereo microphone in a body small enough to carry daily. Families or event shooters who want tilting-screen selfie capability, 10fps burst shooting, and straightforward wireless image transfer to a phone will find the feature set covers most real-world scenarios without requiring any separate lenses or accessories.

Key Features

• 40x optical zoom (24–960mm equivalent) with optical image stabilization
• 20.3MP BSI-CMOS sensor, ISO 100–3200
• Digic 8 processor with 10fps continuous shooting
• 4K video recording from center crop, 1080p up to 60fps
• 3-inch tilting 922K-dot LCD that rotates 180 degrees forward
• Stereo microphone with 4K time-lapse recording support
• Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC connectivity with smartphone remote control

FAQ

What's the effective zoom range at 960mm, and how does Framing Assist help?

At 960mm equivalent, the field of view narrows significantly, making it easy to lose a moving subject. Hold the Framing Assist button to temporarily zoom out, reacquire your target, then release to snap back to 960mm - critical for bird and wildlife work.

Does 4K video use the full sensor width?

No. 4K records from a 1:1 center crop (8MP), which tightens the field of view by roughly 1.35x but gives you even longer reach. 1080p uses the full sensor width and records up to 60fps.

How close can this focus in macro mode?

Down to 1cm (0.39 inches) - closer than many compact rivals. At that distance you risk casting a shadow with the lens, so backing off slightly and zooming in often produces better results.

What's the burst shooting speed, and does AF track through the burst?

10fps, but focus and exposure lock on the first frame. The Digic 8 processor enables this speed, a meaningful upgrade from the 5.9fps of the SX730 HS.

Can I shoot raw files on the SX740 HS?

No. The camera shoots JPEG only across Super Fine and Fine quality levels. The Panasonic Lumix TZ90/ZS70 offers raw capability if that's a priority.

Does this camera have a viewfinder?

No electronic or optical viewfinder - you rely on the 3-inch tilting LCD. The screen flips 180 degrees forward for self-shooting but is not touch-sensitive.

What's the battery life rating?

265 shots per charge (CIPA rating) using the included NB-13L lithium-ion battery.