Recommendations for a new compact camera

GSXRMovistar · 2 Jul 2006 at 17:53

I’m in the market for a new camera and I could do with some help/suggestions on what to go for.

I’m looking for a new compact camera to replace my old Pentax Optio 330 which I’ve been using for the last 5 years. Overall I’ve been pleased with this camera and it’s served me well, it takes great outdoor and daytime pics but to be honest it’s been a little bit hit and miss when it came to indoor shots or those in low light (has trouble focusing). So time to upgrade and I’ve got the following requirements:-

• Compact size, ideally something that can be slipped into a pocket with ease if needed.
• Works well indoor and in low light conditions.
• Takes SD cards (not a must but would be handy as I’ve got a fair amount of these).
• Good battery life, enough to take a least 100-150 worth of photos.
• Budget around £200, but again would increase if the difference is worth it.

So guys, over to you for some recommendations…

Cheers for any help.

GSXRMovistar · 2 Jul 2006 at 23:12

The Ixus 65 looks quite nice, I'll try and find some reviews. From the pics I think the A620 looks a little too big for something I can just drop in my pocket.

GSXRMovistar · 3 Jul 2006 at 02:01

Been looking around a little more and the Ixus 800IS has caught my attention, it’s over my original budget but after reading Buttons mini review and seeing some of the low light pics by cmt in this thread I’m very keen on it.

Does anyone else have any opinions on this camera or any other recommendations?

GSXRMovistar · 3 Jul 2006 at 11:09

The camera has to be able to be carried in a pocket otherwise as others have mentioned it will be left at home. I'll spend a couple more hours looking but I think I'm going to go for the Ixus 800IS.

GSXRMovistar · 3 Jul 2006 at 23:56

cmt said:
If it is to be carried all the time it may be a wise move to invest in one of the silicon 'sleeves' (similar to an iPod case) for a bit of protection.

I like the sound of those, any good links?

GSXRMovistar · 4 Jul 2006 at 22:14

cmt said:
only found on ebay, but here is the Google Search fot them .

cmt

ps - mines on its way.

Thanks for that, they look pretty useful. I've been looking around but can't find anything that beats the Ixus 800 for price so I think I'm going to order one.

GSXRMovistar · 5 Jul 2006 at 13:22

melchy said:
The new Ricoh Caplio R4 seems to be getting not bad reviews, a bit over your budget at £249. Its also got a 7x optical zoom which i find pretty amazing for a compact camera.

I'll take a look at that then, budget is now around £260-270 as I was prepared to pay that for the Ixus 800.

GSXRMovistar · 5 Jul 2006 at 13:36

Also a lot of user reviews are mentioning that it can struggle in low light conditions without a lot manual intervention which would be a pain for me. Looks like the Ixus is still heading the field.

GSXRMovistar · 1 Aug 2006 at 13:48

Finally opted for the Ixus 800, should be delivered tomorrow morning.

GSXRMovistar · 2 Aug 2006 at 17:09

Well it turned up this morning and it seems to be a fantastic little camera, not had much chance to play with it but hopefully try to get to grips with it over the weekend.