Advice Please: Canon vs Panasonic

[kristilew]

Hi, We're getting ready to go on an Adventures by Disney and think it's the perfect excuse to upgrade our digital camera! We want to go the big digital zoom route and seem to be down to two cameras:

Canon Powershot s5IS 8 megapixel, 12x optical zoom, on sale for $299

Panasonic Lumix DMC-F2 18k, 18x optical zoom, 8.3 megapixel, $290

I'm concerned about having to use 4 aa batteries in the canon - seems like a pain in the neck, plus heavy. But I've been using the smaller Powershot SD600 for a couple of years and like it a lot, so maybe there would be an easier learning curve?

Any advice, or other options, would be greatly appreciated. TIA!

 

[mountain8778]

Go with the Canon. It has a much better Image processor so your pictures will have better color and detail. Also, invest in some rechargeable batteries for the powershot. you'll save money in the long run.

 

[DizzyV6P]

Canon plus the Sanyo Eneloop rechargables are the best combination

 

[juligrl]

I looked at the Lumix too and really liked it. I ended up with the Canon cause it's the brand I know and love. I've had mine for almost a year now and am still impressed by it.

 

[LPZ_Stitch!]

I'm concerned about having to use 4 aa batteries in the canon - seems like a pain in the neck, plus heavy. But I've been using the smaller Powershot SD600 for a couple of years and like it a lot, so maybe there would be an easier learning curve?

I couldn't find anything definitive about the Panasonic camera you listed, but it must be comparable to the Lumix DMC-FZ18 which is also an 18X zoom/8MP camera.

The S5 is only 3 oz. heavier ... you'd hardly notice that.

And, using 4AA's means you never have to worry about running out of battery power as there's probably no place you're ever likely to visit that doesn't sell AA's.

Also, IMO, Canon cameras do a better job with the noise generated by high ISOs ... the Venus (Panasonic's) tends to cause a lot of smearing (often called a "watercolor" effect) where the DIGIC (Canon's) takes a lighter touch which leaves more detail that can be recovered with Noiseware or Noise Ninja ... once detail is gone, nothing can put it back.

 

[pjacobi]

If your Adventure by Disney includes a destination outside the US, be sure the charger is 110/220 volt compatible. Also be sure to pick up a set of AC adapter plugs for the charger.


-Paul

 

[kristilew]

Thanks, ya'll - it's so nice when there is a clear answer to something Obviously, I will go with the Canon.

We're going to Peru - already have the adaptors. Just need the camera!