both make cameras with really good optics. I can't recommend specific model #'s 'cuz I haven't camera shopped in awhile, and they change so fast. But, last time I researched it, both companies had lower-end cameras that got good reviews, and I can honestly say I've never seen a fuzzy, pixelated or otherwise crummy pictures taken with either a Canon or a Sony. I have a friend who's a Creative Memories consultant, who just bought a new camera; she did quite a bit of research, and ended up with a $200 Canon, and her pics are beautiful. She said a guy at a camera shop told her that companies that make very good high end cameras will usually also have a low-end camera that's quite good too. Not sure how true that is, but it worked for her!