The latest addition to the family, the Canon PowerShot S120 ($449.99 MSRP), continues to iterate on the concept. Like last year's S110, you get 5x zoom, but this time with a brighter lens and faster autofocus.
Small camera, plenty of control
Most point and shoots settle for shrunken controls in exchange for a slim profile. The PowerShot S120 goes against the grain, preserving the slim body but inflating the size of its rear buttons to make them easier to press. The new, more pronounced controls are a subtle change visually, but they bring the S-series closer in design to Canon's beginner-friendly A-series. It's a welcome improvement upon the PowerShot S's proven control layout, making the S120 more approachable than prior S-series entries.The S120 also features a beefed-up rear thumb rest and a speckled finish across its metal case, making the whole package easier to hold. The signature control ring that surrounds the S120's lens is a useful touch. Not only does it automatically change functions depending on what mode you're in (for instance, in aperture priority, it's mapped to open or close the camera's aperture), it also is highly customizable. The ring is satisfyingly clicky between your fingers as you twist it, letting you make adjustments finely and accurately. The camera's compact size makes it a pleasure to shoot one-handed, but control freaks will probably choose to use two hands, in order to take advantage of that great front ring.
The only thing Canon could have added is a custom function button like we saw on the Nikon P330. That said, between the big touchscreen, the improved buttons, the physical mode dial, the control ring, and the zoom toggle, the S120 has enough control to swap settings with ease.
Source : Reviewed.com
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