The
Canon PowerShot SX260 HS produces some excellent photos for a compact megazoom, particularly at higher ISOs.
While photos do get softer and noisier above ISO 200 (typical for point-and-shoots), ISO 400 and 800 are still very usable. The noise and noise reduction are well balanced so you still get very good color and detail at these higher sensitivities. Colors desaturate some at ISO 1600 and 3200, subjects look very soft, and detail is greatly diminished, but photos are still usable at small sizes for prints or on a computer screen. Basically, if you need to shoot in low light or want to freeze action, this camera is one of the best options in its class.