We shoot a specially designed chart in carefully controlled conditions and the resulting images are analysed using DXO Analyzer software to generate the data to produce the graphs below.

A high signal to noise ratio (SNR) indicates a cleaner and better quality image.

For more more details on how to interpret our test data, check out our full explanation of our noise and dynamic range tests.

JPEG signal to noise ratio

JPEG images from the Canon PowerShot SX50 HS are most similar in their signal to noise ratio scores to those from the Canon PowerShot SX40 HS, although the newer camera is slightly stronger overall. Both of these cameras produce better results than the Panasonic FZ200 and Nikon Coolpix L810, at every sensitivity setting.

Raw signal to noise ratio

Of the cameras tested, only the Canon PowerShot SX50 HS and Panasonic FZ200 are able to shoot in raw file format. Here, the Canon beats the Panasonic again for signal to noise ratio, with the Panasonic dropping off dramatically at higher ISO settings.

JPEG dynamic range

For dynamic range, JPEG images from the Canon PowerShot SX50 HS again sit at the top of the chart, beating the Canon PowerShot SX40 HS, Panasonic FZ200 and Nikon Coolpix L810 at every ISO setting, with the Nikon performing worst and the other two sitting closest together on the scale.

Raw dynamic range

Again, in the raw image files the Canon PowerShot SX50 HS shows a greater dynamic range than the Panasonic FZ200, at all sensitivities, although this time the difference between them is slightly less pronounced.