Camera shopping - anyone have any of these models?

[Jenny3]

Hi everyone!

I'm in the market for a point & shoot and am looking at the tough, waterproof / shockproof ones for our upcoming trip. There are so many options out there, it's overwhelming!

I did read many reviews online through dpreview, as well as consumer reviews and blogs, but it honestly made me more confused.

My budget is pretty small - under $150. Less expensive the better I have been looking at a few brands, both new and refurbished, as well as used on craigslist (but that admittedly makes me a bit nervous, although I think I can get a great deal)

I've narrowed it down to either Panasonic or Olympus and found these options...

Panasonic Lumix TS20 (new, Amazon $139)

Panasonic Lumix TS2 (used, craigslist $100, Seller states it's in excellent condition, works great)

Panasonic Lumix TS1 (used, craigslist, $125)

Olympus Stylus Tough 8010 (new, Amazon $144)

Olympus TG320 (new, Amazon $129)

Olympus Stylus Tough 6000 (new, eBay $145)

Olympus Stylus Tough 6020 (refurb, eBay $108)

Olympus TG610 (refurb, Best Buy $120)


It's very hard for a novice person like me to figure out all the differences between the series. I'm not very camera savvy (would love to learn though!). Am looking for something rugged to slip in my pocket that takes nice photos, both in and out of the water, with some fun features to play with and that will last a few years. And a good deal, of course

If you have any input, advice or suggestions, I would sincerely appreciate it!

 

[Shazzasmd]

I dont yet have one of these cameras, but am also looking. If I were buying today, I would go with the Panasonic Lumix T20. I've had Panasonic Lumix cameras previously, and have been pleased. Also, it seems to get decent reviews.

I would also recommend purchasing a new camera, instead of a used one. Nothing against getting a good buy on a used camera, but for a waterproof camera, I would want to have the full warranty protection. My understanding is also that some waterproof cameras have seals that need to be replaced after a period of use, so a used camera that works well now, may have a shorter lifespan than a new one.

Again - I don't own one yet, so these are just opinions. I am tempted by the current price on the T20.

 

[MyHappiestPlace]

I have had several Panasonic Lumix cameras. Loved them all. Not sure of which model I had but they've all been great cameras. The only probs I had were that I kept dropping them (not shockproof) and eventually the lens had issues -which is expected since I dropped them

 

[Jenny3]

I dont yet have one of these cameras, but am also looking. If I were buying today, I would go with the Panasonic Lumix T20. I've had Panasonic Lumix cameras previously, and have been pleased. Also, it seems to get decent reviews.

I would also recommend purchasing a new camera, instead of a used one. Nothing against getting a good buy on a used camera, but for a waterproof camera, I would want to have the full warranty protection. My understanding is also that some waterproof cameras have seals that need to be replaced after a period of use, so a used camera that works well now, may have a shorter lifespan than a new one.

Again - I don't own one yet, so these are just opinions. I am tempted by the current price on the T20.

Thanks for the input! The warranty was one big issue I considered when buying new vs used; that's a good point with the waterproof seals

I'm assuming that if I buy a brand new camera on eBay, the manufacturer warranty would still be good. (yes?)

 

[Snappy in OK]

A friend has an Olympus Stylus Tough. I am not sure which model, but the pictures I have seen with it were great - both in water and out.

 

[Spinning]

I bought my daughter the Olympus Stylus Tough 6000 it leaked within the first year. Olympus was great to deal with I returned it to them and they sent her a new model, at no charge. She loves it.
It takes nice pictures and has held up great at the pool, camp, school etc...

 

[Jenny3]

Sounds like either the Olympus or Panasonic would be just fine, so thank you for the feedback; I appreciate it! I do think new is the way to go, so I get the warranty.

Now to just to figure out which model, LOL