Four years since the last S-series model, Canon revives the line with the PowerShot S90

Overall rating:

90%

Canon PowerShot S90

Overall score:90%

Features:90%

Value:90%

Performance:95%

Design:80%

Image Quality:95%

Pros:

Compact proportions, fast lens, lens control ring, Raw mode, good quality LCD screen, overall image quality, fast start-up

Cons:

Operation hampered by a few design issues, flash sometimes raised when not needed, some WB inaccuracies, mode dial stiff and slightly inaccessible

Manufacturer:

Canon

Price as reviewed:

£380.00

Canon PowerShot S90 review

Introduction

It’s been four years since Canon‘s last S-series compact, the S80, which left many to conclude that Canon had abandoned the line in favour of its successful G-series. So when Canon announced that it was to revive the line with the launch of the S90, it caught the attention of many.

In line with how technology has moved on, some of the improvements over its predecessor are fairly standard and to be expected, though some are genuinely interesting and potentially quite useful. The S-series was, after all, once viewed as a competent alternative to the G-series – so does the S90 reaffirm that notion?

Canon PowerShot S90 review – Features

The camera captures images on a 1/1.7in CCD sensor, at a maximum 10MP resolution in both Raw and JPEG formats. Canon’s DIGIC IV processor is the tech now responsible for processing images, and has been revised to include a Dual-Anti Noise system for the benefit of images shot at higher ISO sensitivities. This is perhaps just as well, as after the camera’s nominal sensitivity range of ISO 80-3200, the Low Light mode can shoot at up to ISO 12,800, at a reduced resolution of 2.5MP.

The camera’s 28-105mm lens features a bright f/2.0 aperture at its widest setting, and has been optically stabilised to reduce image blur. Turning the camera round reveals a 3in LCD screen, with a 461,000-dot resolution, though there’s no viewfinder, nor the provision to mount one given the lack of a hotshoe.

Those used to having a little more control over their shooting will be pleased to know that the full range of PASM exposure controls are included on the S90. This is in addition to a collection of scene presets, and a Custom mode that is similar to that found on many of Canon’s recent DSLRs.

In order to help images retain a maximum level of detail in both highlights and shadows, Canon has included its i-Contrast technology as well as the now-standard Face Detection technology for the benefit of portraits. There’s also a mini HDMI output neatly tucked away on one side of the camera, though sadly this hasn’t been joined by HD video recording, which is only possible at VGA resolution.