Tamron AFB016C700 16-300 F/3.5-6.3 Di II VC PZD Macro 16-300mm IS Interchangeable Lens for Canon EF-

I cannot hold myself out as an expert in these matters. Especially, I have no familiarity with the two cameras you mentioned at the end of your post. I can say that if they are regular compact digitals (tiny sensor vs aps-c), then the SL1 will run circles around them.

I've been using SLR cameras since I bought a Canon FT in 1967, then a Nikon F in 1968. I've been using DSLRs since 2003-- 2 Rebels, 20D, 40D, 7D, and 5D2, and most recently the SL1. Since 2003 my wife has also been an enthusiast, actually doing most or all of the birds and nature stuff. The SL1 has put the fun back into the hobby for me. After using the SL1, the 7D and 5D2 feel like concrete blocks--really heavy.

The 16-300 has allowed me--especially after seeing that the 1.4x extender works as well as it does--to really go out with one lens. Previously, if photo ops were unknown, I would take the Sigma 18-200 plus the Canon 100-400, and maybe the Canon 14mm F2.8 although that lens was best on the 5D2 if I want ultrawide shots. Now, the 16-300 + the 1.4x will take the place of all three of the other lenses. With a photo vest, or even cargo pants, I can carry the 1.4x extender and the Canon 500D Closeup lens and step up ring. I can go without a backpack, if I want to. (Most of the time, though, it will mean I can carry more stuff for my wife, but that's OK, too!)

Exception. I like architecture, including lots of old Americana that which one might not call architecture, but just old buildings outside and interiors.  Sometimes conditions are such that you can't step back without bringing unwanted objects into the picture, or if you're indoors, maybe you just can't step back because there is a wall stopping you.  Also, I like some extreme wide angle landscapes with interesting objects in the foreground.  For these two situations and some others, I have another pretty new lens that has become a "don't leave home without it" lens:  the Sigma 8-16mm.  Otherwise, the 16-300 is my new "only" lens.

I hope this helped.