Thinking about getting the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS? Let’s talk. After plenty of hands-on experience—some amazing shots and a few inevitable blurs—I’m here to give you the real scoop on what this camera delivers.

What’s in the Box?

When you get your Canon Powershot SX740 HS, here’s what you can expect to find inside the box:

The Camera (obviously)
A handy neck strap
A battery and a charger (yay for no extra purchases here!)
But... you will need to buy an SD card separately.

How Much Does It Cost?

As of right now, the Canon Powershot SX740 HS typically costs around $400 to $450, depending on where you buy it. It’s a bit of an investment, but I promise it’s worth it if you’re looking for a versatile, high-quality point-and-shoot camera. It’s also much cheaper than some of its fancier siblings like the Canon G7X III, which usually goes for around $700.

No SD Card Reader? No Problem!

First things first: you don’t need an SD card reader. The Canon Powershot SX740 HS connects with the Canon Connect App, letting you instantly send photos to your phone’s camera roll. Snap, transfer, and share—no waiting or fumbling with a reader. So if you’re like me, out on the town, you can literally send all your pics to your friends while you’re on your way to the next spot.

Auto Mode? Maybe Not Your Best Friend.

Now, let’s talk about picture quality. The SX740 is great, but I noticed my photos were sometimes a slightly blurry when I was shooting in Auto mode. If you want those crisp, clean shots, try switching over to the SCN mode. It’s a game-changer! Here’s my secret: I use Portrait mode in SCN when I’m shooting people. It keeps the subject sharp and blur-free.

Pro tip: Turn off the Smooth Skin and Soft Focus settings. I know, I know—they sound like they’d make your selfies flawless, but in reality, they tend to soften the whole image, making it look a bit fuzzy. Trust me, your pics will look better without them.

Check Your Image Quality Settings.

If you’re set on shooting in Auto mode (but also applies for SCN), double-check your image quality settings. I always go for the L pixel size (the rounded icon) because I’ve found it to be the best quality. And when you’re uploading your photos to your phone using the app, it’s going to ask if you want to download the reduced size or the original size. Always choose the original size — you want to keep all that beautiful detail!

Battery Life That Goes the Distance.

One of the best things about the Canon Powershot SX740 HS is the battery life. I’ve taken this camera out for a few full day adventures without needing to charge it in between. It’s reliable, and you won’t have to worry about it dying on you in the middle of capturing the perfect sunset shot.

The Perfect Size (Almost).

The camera fits easily in a purse, but it’s bulkier than ultra-compact models due to its flip-up screen (great for vlogging and selfies!). It won’t fit in your back pocket, but the extra features are worth it!

Final Thoughts.

If you’re considering the pricier Canon G7X III for its touchscreen, know that the Canon Powershot SX740 HS offers similar great features at a lower price tag. It’s an excellent, user-friendly choice with solid battery life, great image quality, and easy photo transfers. Though slightly bulkier than ultra-compact models, the flip-up screen and extra features make it worth it. Whether capturing friends, scenic views, or spontaneous moments, the SX740 has you covered.