Canon's compact 30x superzoom of 2012 — 16MP CCD, 24-720mm lens, 720p video; not the SX50 HS
The Canon PowerShot SX500 IS was a compact superzoom bridge camera announced in 2012, offering a very long zoom in a body far smaller than the flagship SX-series bridges. It sat below the SX50 HS in Canon's range as the affordable big-zoom option — and is a different camera from that model despite the similar name.
It combines a 16-megapixel 1/2.3-inch CCD with a 30x optical zoom spanning a 24-720mm equivalent range, stabilised by Canon's optical IS. Processing is by DIGIC 4, the rear screen is a fixed 3.0-inch 461k-dot LCD, sensitivity runs ISO 80-1600, and video records at 720p/25fps. Storage is SD/SDHC/SDXC and the proprietary rechargeable battery is rated for around 195 shots per CIPA. The body weighs about 341g with a pop-up flash and small handgrip.
The SX500 IS suits travellers and casual wildlife or sports spectators who want serious reach without a big camera bag. The 24mm wide end is genuinely useful, though the CCD sensor limits high-ISO work and video tops out at 720p, so it rewards daylight shooting; the modest battery rating makes a spare worth having.
On the used market confirm the battery holds charge and a Canon charger is included, since spares are third-party territory now. Zoom the lens through its full 30x range listening for grinding, check the IS unit stabilises at full tele, inspect the LCD for scratches and bleed, and test-shoot for CCD artefacts. SD storage keeps running costs simple.