The black Canon Power Shot SX170 IS Point-and-Shoot Camera is a compact point-and-shoot featuring a 16 megapixel 1/2.3" CCD sensor and DIGIC 4 image processor to produce high-resolution, well-detailed stills and HD 720p video. The processor also works to provide reduced noise levels and overall image clarity as well as power throughout the camera to enable a High Speed AF system and intelligent auto shooting modes.

The built-in Canon 16x optical zoom lens provides a 35mm-equivalent focal length range of 28-448mm, covering wide-angle to telephoto lengths for shooting in nearly any environment. Aiding the long zoom reach, as well as working in low-light conditions, is the integration of an optical image stabilizer system to minimize the appearance of camera shake. Intelligent IS image stabilization is also available and features six unique stabilization modes suited to different types of shooting.