Hi troysigchi-ga!
As with anything technology-related, there will always be something
better-faster-cheaper down the line. That said, it seems that there
are several really good cameras on the market in your price range.
It sounds as though you've already done some reasearch, since the
things you are looking for are just what the reviews say will give you
better results and higher quality photos and prints.
According to ConsumerSearch, "1.3-megapixel-or-less cameras typically
offer a top resolution of 1280x960 pixels, which is fine for posting
images on the Web, e-mailing, and printing 4x6-inch photos. Mid-range
cameras (around 2 megapixels) have maximum resolutions of about
1600x1200 and can produce very good 5x7-inch prints and good 8x10
enlargements. 3-megapixel and above models have resolutions of
2048x1536 or better and can produce excellent 8x10-inch or larger
prints."
That said, it probably depends on what size prints you intend to make
most often.
The three top-rated models are:
Canon PowerShot A10 (*est. $250)
"As experts' favorite 1.3 megapixel camera, the Canon A10 creates
sharp, detailed smaller prints and images for e-mailing without a lot
of fuss. And unlike many cameras in this price range, A10 offers one
feature that experts don't like to go without—a 3x optical zoom. The
A10 is stylish and compact enough to slip in a pocket, and it connects
easily to your computer with an included USB cable."
Fujifilm FinePix 2600 Zoom (*est. $300)
"You'll be able to make bigger prints with a 2.1-megapixel camera,
like the FinePix 2600; ImagingResource says the 2600 is "an excellent
camera for entry-level users;" CNet also says it's a good value, with
picture quality "on a par with that of higher-priced models." The
FinePix 2600 has a 3X zoom, a large 1.8-inch LCD viewfinder, and the
ability to shoot 20 seconds on video on its 16MB SmartMedia card. Like
the Canon A10, above, this model is mostly an automatic-focus
point-and-shoot with few manual controls. If you're itching to set
your own aperture settings, read on."
Nikon CoolPix 995 (*est. $600)
While this is out of your price range, if you really want to be able
to print larger images, you may wish to wait out the price drops for
this model.
"The Nikon 995 has been one of the most popular cameras ever
introduced, due in no small part to its much-touted swivel design.
This 3.34-megapixel camera sports a 4x optical zoom, logical interface
and top-quality lenses along with a wide range of manual controls.
Photo quality is exceptional for 8x10 enlargements, and experts say
its macro performance is sharp as a tack. Some experts say the Nikon's
learning curve is daunting, so look to the Casio below if you need a
bit more guidance. Nevertheless, a $200 price drop since our last
report makes the 995 a better deal than ever."
There is a comparison chart of six different models at
http://www.consumersearch.com/www/photo_and_video/digital_cameras/comparisonchart.html
The full article on digital camera ratings from ConsumerSearch which
searches for reviews from a variety of sources can be found at the
ConsumerSearch site:
http://www.consumersearch.com/www/photo_and_video/digital_cameras/fullstory.html
Other sources you might want to look at:
ImagingResource.com
http://www.imaging-resource.com/DIGCAM01.HTM
Digital Photography Review
http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/
Steve's DigiCams: Camera Reviews
http://www.steves-digicams.com/hardware_reviews.html
You may also wish to visit your local public library and check
Consumer Reports for their ratings.
If you have particular models in mind that you'd like me to check out
further, I'll be happy to work on that for you as well!
Search strategy:
I used ConsumerSearch which collects and summarizes other reviews. It
is not an independent reviewer like Consumer Reports, however it is a
free service and relies on reviews from multiple sources.
Regards,
readersguide-ga |
