720 or 710 or S3 Purchasing my first digital camera is more than I bargained for when it comes to choices. I have narrowed to these three, but am at a lost as to why the 710 costs more. Any ideas? Will here be a problem if I have Vista with any of these choices. Should I pay extra for the S3? Do I really need to worry about specific memory cards / battery chargers? Please help a novice make a desicion in time for the holidays. 720 or 710 or S3 Purchasing my first digital camera is more than I bargained for when it comes to choices. I have narrowed to these three, but am at a lost as to why the 710 costs more. Any ideas?... » Read More 720 or 710 or S3 Purchasing my first digital camera is more than I bargained for when it comes to choices. I have narrowed to these three, but am at a lost as to why the 710 costs more. Any ideas? Will here be a problem if I have Vista with any of these choices. Should I pay extra for the S3? Do I really need to worry about specific memory cards / battery chargers? Please help a novice make a desicion in time for the holidays. « Show Less
1334015
About the only reason for MOST PEOPLE to get more than a 2 GB SD card is because they intend to take movie clips. It would take an awful lot of still photos to fill up a 2 GB card! If you intend to take a lot of movies, go for a larger card.With any of these cameras, if you intend to take long movie clips, use either a high speed SD card or a fast SDHD card. I have to be honest. I am somewhat ignorant of the real world speeds of the SDHD cards, compared to the high speed SD cards, though there are websites that do comparisons of such things.
1334016
Thanks for the info. I have decided on the 720 but am now confused on the memory card debate. I have read/heard conflicting opinions on sd vs sdhc. I'm thinking an sd 2gb should do everything I need without memory card error risks. Any thoughts as to upgrading beyond?
1334017
We have a Canon S2 which we are trying to replace after giving it to our college daughter majoring in journalism. I am opting for another S2 rather than and S3 because of the size and weight. The S2 has features that I still don't know how to use. Perhaps the A720 would be a little easier to use.
1334018
I have recently purchased the S3 IS and it's wonderful. The movie mode has incredible stereo sound and a wonderfully clear picture. My only gripe is that movies are limited to about 7 minutes (1 gig of space), though you can hit the record button and continue recording a moment later. This shortcoming was fixed in the S5 IS. If size and weight are not important, the S3 IS is a wonderful camera. I'm here, looking at the 720 IS, because I'm looking for a pocket camera to use when carrying the S3 IS is not practical.
2049393
Bought the S3 at Circuit City, then found the S2 on Amazon for $120 less and no tax free s/s shipping on Amazon. Delivered to my door. 5MP vs. 6MP resolution on the S3, slightly smaller LCD (1.8" vs. 2.0") display on the S2, silver color on the S2, etc. S3 not worth $120 more, that's why most Amazon buyers get the S2. Amazon has the best price and their customer service is unbeatable.
553977
Hi I have the Canon XSI and its a terrific camera. I am thinking of getting the Powershot S1 IS because of its 20X zoom which is equivalent to 560mm. I like the fact that I don't have to change lenses and that it has image stabilization at the 20X zoom. If you are an ameteur to semi-professional photographer then the S1 IS is the way to go. With the XSI I have to keep chainging lenses and when I use my 300mm lens I no longer have Image Stabilization. It does require carrying extra lenses which can be a pain when traveling. I like the fact that the S1 IS has a better sensor and records HD movies. If I did not have the XSI I would definitely buy the S1 IS. Like I said I am stronlgly considering buying the new S1 IS. Hope this info helps.
331380
I was just comparing those today.I ended up going with the SD780 because a) my boyfriend has one and i like the pictures that come out of it... and b) there just were so few comments for the SD1300 ... I figured if it were a great camera, there would be more people buying it.
1448985
Thanks for the input and advice. I'm new to high-end(expensive) digital camera market. I realized after I posted this question that the camera is sold out or otherwise unavailable now and it could take a month or two to get one even if I ordered today. I'll definitely look into buying one in the next few months.
1197935
I also read through some reviews before settling on the SD780 but my general impression is that the SD780 takes somewhat better pictures due to better hardware specs and software. However the bigger factors for me were the smaller size and HD video as well as the fact that the customer sample images on Amazon just had more pictures of the type I was looking for (dark environment) on the SD780 as opposed to the SD1200. Barring any way of direct comparison, your choice should be based on whether you feel the difference in price is worth the: HD video, smaller size (not always a positive for some people), and potentially better performance. You should also try holding them in a store if possible because for me I noticed 1) SD780 has a softer zoom lever, 2) the optical viewfinder on the SD780 seems easier for me to use despite that it's on the smaller of the two units, and 3) the SD1200 does feel somewhat more comfortable to hold due to its slightly bigger size. Good luck.
1149039
I had the S5200 until it was stolen. I replaced it with an S700 and even though it was cheaper, it had more features, I like it so much I ordered the S8000Fd, I love what that zoom can do, so much power and can do it hand held. Great macro shooting with both cameras too.
1220928
I just went through the same battle, although I have different needs. I have to say either is a great choice but I went with the Canon due to the zoom being a little less, a compromise in hopes that it will have better low light response. I also had a Canon before, so the operating system was a more familiar. Can't tell you yet if that was a wise choice of not. I have had the camera for three days and have had little time to play with it. Here is a comparative review that I found helpful: http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/Q110superzoomgroup/ I saw another review but can't find it again that really played up the Nikon as a much better choice. But it seemed to be written by people reading specifications rather than actually using the camera. I don't think you can wrong with either. The Canon is bulkier and uses 4 double AA batteries which add to the weight. The nice thing about the double AAs is that you have a far easier time getting batteries if you run out of power, but at the cost of weight. If you do get the Canon, get at least 8 Sanyo Eneloop rechargeable NIMH batteries Sanyo Eneloop 4 Pack AA NiMH Pre-Charged Rechargable Batteries w/ Charger. They hold their charge when not used much better than normal NIMH batteries. As the link indicates you can get them here at Amazon. With 8 Eneloops you should never run out of power (providing that you keep them charged of course). If you buy the Nikon, I would recommend looking into a spare battery and a charger. Good luck with your new camera, which ever one you choose!
710383
If you are trying to save money, you are in the wrong department of this hobby!Please start looking at good point-and-shoot cameras.(And that is said as good advice, not as scorn or sarcasm.)Read reviews of Canon S5 IS and find comparisons with its competitors.If you want a DSLR for the ability to choose the best lens for the job, then why not get the best lens for the job?Forget the tele and conversion lenses; you will probably never get the kinds of images that you expect from a DSLR.If the Evolt 510 kit lenses are too expensive for your budget, I believe you will be very pleased with what an advanced point-and-shoot can do.Best,Bert If you are trying to save money, you are in the wrong department of this hobby!Please start looking at good point-and-shoot cameras.(And that is said as good advice, not as scorn or sarcasm.)Read reviews of Canon S5 IS and find comparisons with its competitors.If you want a DSLR for the ability to choose the best lens for the job, then why not get the best lens for the job?Forget the tele and conversion lenses; you will probably never get the kinds of images that you expect from a DSLR.If the Evolt 510 kit lenses are too expensive for your... » Read More If you are trying to save money, you are in the wrong department of this hobby!Please start looking at good point-and-shoot cameras.(And that is said as good advice, not as scorn or sarcasm.)Read reviews of Canon S5 IS and find comparisons with its competitors.If you want a DSLR for the ability to choose the best lens for the job, then why not get the best lens for the job?Forget the tele and conversion lenses; you will probably never get the kinds of images that you expect from a DSLR.If the Evolt 510 kit lenses are too expensive for your budget, I believe you will be very pleased with what an advanced point-and-shoot can do.Best,Bert « Show Less
331381
I was deciding between these two myself last week. I ended up going with the 780is because of the high def video as well as the inclusion of the viewfinder - which is small, but useful when you're running low on battery and still need to take pics. I just got the camera on Friday and have been taking tons of photos and they are brilliantl! I love it!
1893354
Hello Amy. I see that you've not gotten a reply yet for a few days. I own the Canon SX130is camera that is nearly identical to that of the next version, the SX150is. I even owned the previous model of mine now, SX120is. THe only reason for the upgrade was to get HD video and stereo sound. Other than that, I loved that camera too. I've not studied the others you are deciding on but just looked them over. THere's not a "night & day" major difference between them. Differences of 2x zoom power is not major IMHO. Frames per second in burst mode shooting is. Size may be a factor too. But I can tell you why I like my camera. A manual flip up flash allows unmistakeable control over the flash and keeps the camera from waisting power charging for a flash that you didn't need for that shot. The option of complete manual settings is a must. And the advantage of using AA batteries gives you limitless flexibility of power. Don't let the negative reviews tell you that you cannot take lots of photos with this camera. If you get some high capacity rechargable batteries and enough for an extra set, you'll be good. Several here have recommended Sanyo Eneloop brand cells. That they come precharged and hold that charge for extended periods of storage time. A friend of mine used them and swears by them. I use Ansmann 2850 mAh batteries (which are higher capacity) and they give me nearly 200 more shots in my Canon SX20is than what is rated in the camera manual.
1790344
I am considering the same three cameras. I went to CNET.com and they have reviews for all three of these cameras. Just click on REveiws and then DIGTAL CAMERAS. CNET provides some inside information about digicams. It was very helpful in helping make a decision. The website also explains the difference between optical and digtial zoom. I am going to purchase the A710 because it has image stablization because I often take pictures free hand. There is a Canon A570 IS with the same thing at a less price.
2182537
I am leaning towards SD1000 as well. I find it hard to justify the $100+ extra for an SD870 IS for only marginally better, and rarely used features:SD1000 v/s SD870 IS (using the Product Comparison on the Canon site):* pixels: 7.4MP / 8.3 MP* focal length: 35-105mm / 28-105mm* Shutter speed: 15-1/1500sec / 15-1600sec* Shooting speed: 1.7fps / 1.3 fps (so, actually slower!)* Screen: 2.5" / 3"* Optical zoom: 3.8x / 3xWell, the main feature on SD870 is the IS - but for an ultra compact camera point-and-shoot camera it will remain a rarely used feature. I am leaning towards SD1000 as well. I find it hard to justify the $100+ extra for an SD870 IS for only marginally better, and rarely used features:SD1000 v/s SD870 IS (using the Product Comparison on the Canon site):* pixels: 7.4MP / 8.3 MP* focal length: 35-105mm / 28-105mm* Shutter speed: 15-1/1500sec / 15-1600sec* Shooting speed: 1.7fps / 1.3 fps (so, actually slower!)* Screen: 2.5" / 3"* Optical zoom: 3.8x / 3xWell, the main feature on SD870 is the IS - but for an ultra compact camera point-and-shoot camera it will remain... » Read More I am leaning towards SD1000 as well. I find it hard to justify the $100+ extra for an SD870 IS for only marginally better, and rarely used features:SD1000 v/s SD870 IS (using the Product Comparison on the Canon site):* pixels: 7.4MP / 8.3 MP* focal length: 35-105mm / 28-105mm* Shutter speed: 15-1/1500sec / 15-1600sec* Shooting speed: 1.7fps / 1.3 fps (so, actually slower!)* Screen: 2.5" / 3"* Optical zoom: 3.8x / 3xWell, the main feature on SD870 is the IS - but for an ultra compact camera point-and-shoot camera it will remain a rarely used feature. « Show Less
1355666
Here are some other differences:570IS has 1600 ISO, while 710 only goes up to 800 (although with 1600 ISO, it's pretty much impossible to get a clear picture).710IS has better macro shooting capabilities (with a focus range at 1 cm vs. 5 cm for 570IS).570IS has an aperture range of F2.6 to 5.5, while 710IS has a range of F2.8 to 4.8.I believe both have the same video capabilities. I think I'll go with the 570IS
119784
If you want to save some cash, go for the 590; if you want the big zoom it's the SX110. Both are fine cameras, but I love the zoom on the SX110 for sports photos.
1790350
You want the A710 IS. There is just no comparison to the others.The other two are only 3x zoom and lack key features. You will hate yourself the next day. For the $40 difference, how many photos do you think you will take? A thousand, 5 thousand? So the cheapest one will save you a penny a shot?And the Canon cameras have so many features that typically are only found in big, expensive Digital SLRs.
494124
Funny, I was just looking at the two cameras myself and ended up purchasing the SD880IS.The SD880IS is slimmer (0.9 vs. 1.1) and has a bigger LCD screen (3.0 vs. 2.5). Granted, the SD880IS gives up a little in terms of optical zoom (4.0 vs 5.0) but that's the price you pay for having a slim compact camera. I wanted something above the run of the mill 3x optical zoom cameras out there and the 4x SD880IS fits the bill, even if I had to pay $50 extra over the price of the SD890IS. And FYI, the SD880IS is a newer camera, hence the "better" DIGIC 4 Image Processor over the SD890IS's DIGIC III Image Processor. Funny, I was just looking at the two cameras myself and ended up purchasing the SD880IS.The SD880IS is slimmer (0.9 vs. 1.1) and has a bigger LCD screen (3.0 vs. 2.5). Granted, the SD880IS gives up a little in terms of optical zoom (4.0 vs 5.0) but that's the price you pay for having a slim compact camera. I wanted something above the run of the mill 3x optical zoom cameras out there and the 4x SD880IS fits the bill, even if I had to pay $50 extra over the price of the SD890IS. And FYI, the SD880IS is a newer camera, hence the "better" DIGIC 4 Image... » Read More Funny, I was just looking at the two cameras myself and ended up purchasing the SD880IS.The SD880IS is slimmer (0.9 vs. 1.1) and has a bigger LCD screen (3.0 vs. 2.5). Granted, the SD880IS gives up a little in terms of optical zoom (4.0 vs 5.0) but that's the price you pay for having a slim compact camera. I wanted something above the run of the mill 3x optical zoom cameras out there and the 4x SD880IS fits the bill, even if I had to pay $50 extra over the price of the SD890IS. And FYI, the SD880IS is a newer camera, hence the "better" DIGIC 4 Image Processor over the SD890IS's DIGIC III Image Processor. « Show Less