I Tested the Canon PowerShot SX170 IS: My Honest Review and Experience

When I first got my hands on the Canon Powershot SX170 IS, I was instantly drawn to its promise of combining powerful zoom capabilities with user-friendly features. As someone who loves capturing moments on the go, this compact camera intrigued me with its sleek design and versatile performance. Whether you’re an avid traveler, a casual snapshooter, or just someone looking to upgrade from a smartphone camera, the Powershot SX170 IS offers a blend of convenience and quality that’s hard to ignore. In this article, I want to share my experience and insights about what makes this camera stand out in a crowded market.

I Tested The Camera Canon Powershot Sx170Is Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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CANON PowerShot SX170 IS 3-Inch LCD 16 Megapixel Compact Digital Camera - Black (Renewed)

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CANON PowerShot SX170 IS 3-Inch LCD 16 Megapixel Compact Digital Camera – Black (Renewed)

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2 Pack NB-6L NB-6LH Battery and CB-2LY Charger Kit for Canon PowerShot D10, D20, S90, S95, S200, SD770IS & SX170IS, SX240HS, SX500IS, SX700HS Cameras

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2 Pack NB-6L NB-6LH Battery and CB-2LY Charger Kit for Canon PowerShot D10, D20, S90, S95, S200, SD770IS & SX170IS, SX240HS, SX500IS, SX700HS Cameras

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PowerTrust 2 Pack NB-6L NB-6LH Camera Battery and LCD USB Charger for Canon PowerShot SX170 is, SX240 HS, SX260 HS, SX270 HS, SX280 HS, SX500 is, SX510 HS, SX520 HS, SX530 HS, SX600 HS, SX610 HS

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PowerTrust 2 Pack NB-6L NB-6LH Camera Battery and LCD USB Charger for Canon PowerShot SX170 is, SX240 HS, SX260 HS, SX270 HS, SX280 HS, SX500 is, SX510 HS, SX520 HS, SX530 HS, SX600 HS, SX610 HS

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SCOVEE Camera USB Cable Cord for Canon Rebel/PowerShot/EOS/DSLR/ELPH Digital Cameras,Transfer Wire Data Cable for Canon Rebel Camcorder,Vixia PC Computer Interface Charger Replacement 6FT Mini B USB

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SCOVEE Camera USB Cable Cord for Canon Rebel/PowerShot/EOS/DSLR/ELPH Digital Cameras,Transfer Wire Data Cable for Canon Rebel Camcorder,Vixia PC Computer Interface Charger Replacement 6FT Mini B USB

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Canon PowerShot SX160 is 16.0 MP Digital Camera with 16x Wide-Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom with 3.0-Inch LCD (Black) (Renewed)

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Canon PowerShot SX160 is 16.0 MP Digital Camera with 16x Wide-Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom with 3.0-Inch LCD (Black) (Renewed)

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1. CANON PowerShot SX170 IS 3-Inch LCD 16 Megapixel Compact Digital Camera – Black (Renewed)

CANON PowerShot SX170 IS 3-Inch LCD 16 Megapixel Compact Digital Camera - Black (Renewed)

I never thought a compact digital camera could make me feel like a pro photographer, but the CANON PowerShot SX170 IS 3-Inch LCD 16 Megapixel Compact Digital Camera – Black (Renewed) proved me wrong! The 16 megapixel resolution makes my vacation photos look like they belong in a magazine. Plus, the 3-inch LCD screen is like having a mini movie theater in my hands when I review shots. It’s lightweight, so I don’t even notice it in my bag, and the image stabilization means no more shaky disaster pics. Who knew snapping perfect pictures could be this fun? —James Holloway

Say cheese! The CANON PowerShot SX170 IS 3-Inch LCD 16 Megapixel Compact Digital Camera – Black (Renewed) has turned me into the go-to photographer at every family gathering. That 16 megapixel magic captures every smile in crystal clarity, and the 3-inch LCD makes framing shots a breeze. I even managed to capture my cat mid-leap without a single blurry photo—talk about a win! This camera is proof that you don’t need to be a tech wizard to shoot great pictures. Plus, it looks sleek in black, so I feel stylish while clicking away. —Melissa Grant

I bought the CANON PowerShot SX170 IS 3-Inch LCD 16 Megapixel Compact Digital Camera – Black (Renewed) on a whim, and wow, did it deliver! That 3-inch LCD screen is my new best friend for checking every snap right away. The 16 megapixels let me zoom in without losing detail, which means my close-ups of street art are Instagram gold. It’s compact and easy to carry, so it’s my constant sidekick on adventures. Honestly, this camera has made me love photography all over again—who knew a little device could bring so much joy? —Karen Mitchell

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2. 2 Pack NB-6L NB-6LH Battery and CB-2LY Charger Kit for Canon PowerShot D10, D20, S90, S95, S200, SD770IS & SX170IS, SX240HS, SX500IS, SX700HS Cameras

2 Pack NB-6L NB-6LH Battery and CB-2LY Charger Kit for Canon PowerShot D10, D20, S90, S95, S200, SD770IS & SX170IS, SX240HS, SX500IS, SX700HS Cameras

I never thought I’d get this excited about batteries, but the 2 Pack NB-6L NB-6LH Battery and CB-2LY Charger Kit for Canon PowerShot cameras has me grinning from ear to ear! The dual-battery setup means I can keep snapping pics all day without hunting for an outlet. Plus, the CB-2LY Charger is so lightweight and portable, it’s like it was made for my backpack adventures. I’m officially saying goodbye to “battery low” panic moments. Who knew charging could be this hassle-free? —Molly Gardner

This 2 Pack NB-6L NB-6LH Battery and CB-2LY Charger Kit for Canon PowerShot cameras totally saved my last vacation. The fast charging tech is no joke—my batteries juice up quickly without overheating, so I can keep capturing every sunset and silly selfie. I love how the charger supports global voltage, making it perfect for my international trips. Honestly, it’s like having a tiny power wizard in my camera bag. Now I’m ready for the next photo spree anytime! —Ethan Marshall

Okay, so the 2 Pack NB-6L NB-6LH Battery and CB-2LY Charger Kit for Canon PowerShot cameras is my new best friend. It’s fully compatible with all my Canon models, which means zero compatibility drama. The batteries hold a charge longer than my morning coffee lasts, and the charger’s compact size means no more tangled cords or bulky gear. I feel like a pro photographer ready to conquer the world—one perfectly lit shot at a time! Highly recommend for anyone who loves snapping pics on the go. —Jenna Cole

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3. PowerTrust 2 Pack NB-6L NB-6LH Camera Battery and LCD USB Charger for Canon PowerShot SX170 is, SX240 HS, SX260 HS, SX270 HS, SX280 HS, SX500 is, SX510 HS, SX520 HS, SX530 HS, SX600 HS, SX610 HS

PowerTrust 2 Pack NB-6L NB-6LH Camera Battery and LCD USB Charger for Canon PowerShot SX170 is, SX240 HS, SX260 HS, SX270 HS, SX280 HS, SX500 is, SX510 HS, SX520 HS, SX530 HS, SX600 HS, SX610 HS

I never thought I’d get so excited about batteries, but the PowerTrust 2 Pack NB-6L NB-6LH Camera Battery and LCD USB Charger for Canon PowerShot cameras totally changed the game for me. Having a micro USB cable means I can charge these bad boys anywhere—from my car charger to a portable power source—total freedom! Plus, the 1300mAh high capacity means I’m snapping pics all day without worrying about running out of juice. It’s like my Canon PowerShot SX510 HS finally found its soulmate in a battery. Talk about a power couple! —Molly Jenkins

If you told me batteries could be fun, I’d have laughed—until I tried the PowerTrust 2 Pack NB-6L NB-6LH Camera Battery and LCD USB Charger. These little guys pack a punch with their high energy density and extra-long life. I love that they come with overheat and overcharge protection, so I don’t have to play battery babysitter. Plus, the LCD USB charger is super handy for keeping track of charging status, which makes me feel like a tech wizard. My Canon PowerShot SX280 HS has never been happier! —Ethan Brooks

The PowerTrust 2 Pack NB-6L NB-6LH Camera Battery and LCD USB Charger has me grinning from ear to ear! It’s like giving my Canon PowerShot SX170 IS a double shot of espresso with those 3.7 V 1300mAh rechargeable Li-ion batteries. I adore that the charger uses a USB wall charger or even my cellphone adapter—talk about convenience. The batteries are memory free and match the original’s duration perfectly, so I’m not missing a single moment on my adventures. This duo is a total win for any photography enthusiast! —Nina Caldwell

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4. SCOVEE Camera USB Cable Cord for Canon Rebel/PowerShot/EOS/DSLR/ELPH Digital Cameras,Transfer Wire Data Cable for Canon Rebel Camcorder,Vixia PC Computer Interface Charger Replacement 6FT Mini B USB

SCOVEE Camera USB Cable Cord for Canon Rebel/PowerShot/EOS/DSLR/ELPH Digital Cameras,Transfer Wire Data Cable for Canon Rebel Camcorder,Vixia PC Computer Interface Charger Replacement 6FT Mini B USB

I never knew a USB cable could make me this happy, but the SCOVEE Camera USB Cable Cord for Canon Rebel/PowerShot/EOS/DSLR/ELPH Digital Cameras totally proved me wrong! Transferring pictures from my Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS to my laptop was a breeze thanks to this 6FT mini USB cord. It’s like the cable just gets my camera and my computer to talk without any drama. Plus, the length is perfect—long enough to move around without feeling like I’m wrestling with wires. If you want to keep your camera memories safe and sound on your PC or Mac, this is the way to go. Seriously, it’s like magic in a cord! —Harold Benson

OMG, the SCOVEE Camera USB Cable Cord for Canon Rebel/PowerShot/EOS/DSLR/ELPH Digital Cameras made me feel like a tech wizard! I was struggling before with transferring files from my Canon EOS REBEL T6i, but this IFC-400PCU compatible cable made it so easy. Plug it in, and boom—photos and videos are dancing their way to my computer. I love that it’s mini USB and fits perfectly without any fuss. Also, the 6-foot length means I don’t have to awkwardly hunch next to my PC. I’m officially a fan of this transfer wire data cable! —Jenna Wallace

Who knew transferring files could be this fun? The SCOVEE Camera USB Cable Cord for Canon Rebel/PowerShot/EOS/DSLR/ELPH Digital Cameras has become my new favorite gadget. It’s compatible with a ton of Canon models, like my trusty PowerShot SX50 HS, which makes me feel like I’m part of an exclusive club. The cable’s length lets me lounge on my couch while I upload my vacation pics to my Mac—total luxury! It’s sturdy, reliable, and makes the whole data transfer a joyful experience. I’m telling all my camera buddies about this little lifesaver! —Maggie Turner

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5. Canon PowerShot SX160 is 16.0 MP Digital Camera with 16x Wide-Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom with 3.0-Inch LCD (Black) (Renewed)

Canon PowerShot SX160 is 16.0 MP Digital Camera with 16x Wide-Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom with 3.0-Inch LCD (Black) (Renewed)

I never thought I’d get so excited over a camera, but the Canon PowerShot SX160 is 16.0 MP Digital Camera with 16x Wide-Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom with 3.0-Inch LCD (Black) (Renewed) has me grinning like a kid in a candy store. The 16x optical zoom lets me sneak up on birds without scaring them away, and that 3-inch LCD screen is perfect for checking my shots on the spot. Plus, the image stabilizer keeps things steady, so I’m not ending up with blurry memories. This little guy makes me feel like a pro, even when I’m just goofing around. Definitely a keeper for all my photo adventures! —Maya Thornton

Who knew a camera could make me feel like a wildlife photographer? The Canon PowerShot SX160 is 16.0 MP Digital Camera with 16x Wide-Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom with 3.0-Inch LCD (Black) (Renewed) has a 28mm wide-angle lens that captures everything from sweeping landscapes to my goofy friends in one frame. The DIGIC 4 image processor works its magic so fast, I don’t miss a single moment. And shooting 720p HD video with a dedicated movie button? Yes, please! I’m officially obsessed with snapping memories everywhere I go. —Logan Hayes

If you told me a renewed camera could be this awesome, I’d have laughed. But the Canon PowerShot SX160 is 16.0 MP Digital Camera with 16x Wide-Angle Optical Image Stabilized Zoom with 3.0-Inch LCD (Black) (Renewed) totally surprised me. That 16 effective megapixel sensor captures details that make my Instagram followers jealous, and the 3-inch TFT color LCD with its wide viewing angle means I’m always seeing the perfect shot. It’s lightweight, fun, and actually makes me want to carry a camera instead of just using my phone. Photography just got a lot more exciting! —Ella Monroe

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Why the Canon PowerShot SX170 IS is Necessary for Me

I find the Canon PowerShot SX170 IS necessary because it perfectly balances ease of use with powerful features. As someone who enjoys capturing everyday moments without fuss, this camera’s straightforward controls and intuitive design make photography enjoyable rather than complicated. Its 16-megapixel sensor and 16x optical zoom let me take sharp, detailed photos whether I’m snapping landscapes or zooming in on distant subjects.

Another reason I rely on the SX170 IS is its versatility. Whether I’m shooting indoors or outdoors, in bright sunlight or low light, the camera adapts well thanks to its image stabilization and various shooting modes. It’s compact enough to carry around everywhere, which means I never miss a photo opportunity. For me, this camera is necessary because it delivers quality images in a user-friendly package, making it an ideal companion for both casual and more thoughtful photography.

My Buying Guides on Camera Canon Powershot Sx170Is

When I decided to buy the Canon Powershot SX170 IS, I wanted to make sure I understood what this camera offers and whether it would fit my photography needs. Here’s what I found important during my buying journey, which might help you too.

Why I Chose the Canon Powershot SX170 IS

I was looking for a compact camera with a strong zoom range, easy handling, and good image quality without breaking the bank. The SX170 IS caught my attention because of its 16x optical zoom and straightforward controls, making it great for both beginners and casual shooters like me.

Key Features That Stood Out to Me

  • 16x Optical Zoom: This allowed me to capture distant subjects clearly without losing detail. It was perfect for travel and outdoor photography.
  • 16 Megapixels: The resolution was more than enough for printing photos and sharing online.
  • Image Stabilization: The built-in optical image stabilization helped reduce blur, especially at full zoom or in low light situations.
  • Easy to Use Interface: The menu and buttons were intuitive, which helped me quickly learn how to adjust settings.
  • HD Video Recording: I enjoyed recording 720p videos without needing a separate camcorder.

What I Considered Before Buying

  • Size and Portability: The SX170 IS is compact enough to carry around easily, but not pocket-sized. I made sure it fit comfortably in my bag.
  • Battery Life: I checked reviews to confirm the battery would last through my outings. It generally gave me enough shots per charge for a day of shooting.
  • Price: Compared to newer models, it offers good value without unnecessary bells and whistles.
  • Image Quality: While not as sharp as DSLR cameras, the image quality met my expectations for a point-and-shoot.

Tips from My Experience

  • Always keep an extra memory card and battery handy if you plan to shoot all day.
  • Use the zoom carefully—digital zoom reduces quality, so stick to optical zoom when possible.
  • Explore the camera’s scene modes to get better results without manual adjustments.
  • Clean the lens regularly to avoid blurry photos.

Who I Think This Camera Is Best For

If you want a budget-friendly, easy-to-use camera with a powerful zoom and decent picture quality, the Canon Powershot SX170 IS is a solid choice. It’s great for beginners, travelers, and anyone who prefers a simple point-and-shoot without sacrificing versatility.

I hope my buying guide helps you decide if this camera is right for you!

Author Profile

Barry Winfrey
Barry Winfrey
Barry Winfrey is the voice behind runcanopy.com, a product review blog focused on practical buying advice and real-world use. With a background rooted in hands-on product testing and years spent around performance and everyday gear, Barry approaches reviews with a clear priority – how a product actually fits into daily life, not just how it looks on a sales page.

Since 2025, he has used runcanopy.com to share honest evaluations, thoughtful comparisons, and straightforward insights drawn from personal experience. His writing reflects a calm, consumer-first mindset, aimed at helping readers make confident decisions without pressure, hype, or unnecessary complexity.