Is there a camera with similar qualities to Canon Powershot SX30 IS but with a larger image sensor?

Question

Hello.. is there a fixed lens camera similar to Canon Powershot SX30 IS but with a larger sensor ?(I want some creative control- NOT simple point and shoot and reliable, powerful zoom and macro capabilities) ? Image quality is VERY important to me. I am still on a quest for a viable alternative to going DSLR (Nikon D3100 specifically). I am put off by the lens-changing issue with dslr. Do I have to resign myself to dealing with it? Can I take image quality seriously and find a non-dslr to suit my needs? thanks :)

Answer 1

A larger sensor would require a larger lens, that's why it's impossible to find a compact

with a double digit zoom rage, and an imaging sensor larger than the standard.

The Canon S95, G12 and the Panasonic LX5 all share the same sensor size,

but a short zoom range, with the G12 topping the other's x4 with its x5 zoom.

The only camera with a larger sensor and a slightly more serious zoom

is Nikon's P7000, with a x7.1 zoom equivalent of 28-200mm.

That's not close to the x35 of the SX30, but it's the best you'll get from a compact.

If you do wind up getting a DSLR, get a decent lens that you don't have to change,

and weld it to your camera. It will cost you much more than any compact,

but will also provide unmatchable image quality compared to any compact.

Answer 2

You don't have to change lenses all the time if you buy the right one. I use a 28-200 and never take it off my dslr - an excellent all around lens. An 18-200 is also available, a little more $$ but it's there if you want it.

Answer 3

Canon S95.