Specs for digital camera- your input please

[Deebo]

I have been doing lots of research (dpreview.com and steves-digicams.com and others) in preparation for my first digital camera purchase. I have narrowed it down to a few that meet my criteria, and I was wondering whether you guys could give me your input or suggest a model that I've overlooked. Here are my specs:
A point and shoot that is fairly simple to use --will likely be used mostly in 'dummy' mode with a minimum of tinkering by me. The less large and clunky the better. To be used mainly for vacation pics and family events.
Must haves: At least 5 mp, at least 4x optical zoom, image stabilization
Preferred (but not absolutely necessary)features: AA batteries, SD memory

I've identified the following:
1. Panasonic LUMIX DMC-LZ5 (approx. $250-280)
2. Canon SD700IS (mid $400s)
3. From lurking on this board, I have also noticed several posters singing the praises of the Canon S2IS (low to mid $300s), although my first impression is that it may be a bit bulky for me, especially since part of my reason for going digital is to 'streamline' a bit.

I know that many folks swear by their Canons, but I also have some concern about the incidence of an E18 error in many Canon models that renders them useless, and Canon's lack of support on the matter. I have run across this several times in my research, and it has me a little freaked out (especially considering the price of the SD700IS).

Any constructive input you can give me, including experience with the above or recommendations of models that I may have overlooked, would be great. Thanks in advance.

 

[Kelly Grannell]

I know that many folks swear by their Canons, but I also have some concern about the incidence of an E18 error in many Canon models that renders them useless, and Canon's lack of support on the matter. I have run across this several times in my research, and it has me a little freaked out

The E18 error is not a widespread problem. It is a problem indeed, but when a whole bunch of people with the same problem post together, it looks like a big and widespread problem. This I know from a Canon repair centres (they have no reason to lie to me, they know I won't buy a point and shoot).

I don't know about in the US, but in Canada, an E18 problem usually dealt within 48 hours.

Regardless, the SD700IS is a better camera than the LZ5 for one major reason: The ISO 800 is actually usable and Canon does not apply noise reduction unlike the Panasonic which makes the picture looking very soft and blurry. Most people don't think that ISO 800 is necessary, but believe me, most people also don't think that WDW is a place for an adult to enjoy... until they experience it themself.

 

[Anewman]

I've identified the following:
1. Panasonic LUMIX DMC-LZ5 (approx. $250-280)
2. Canon SD700IS (mid $400s)
3. From lurking on this board, I have also noticed several posters singing the praises of the Canon S2IS (low to mid $300s), although my first impression is that it may be a bit bulky for me, especially since part of my reason for going digital is to 'streamline' a bit.

My daughter is going to be Yearbook Photo Editor starting in the FALL, she needed a camera that she could carry with her at all times. She has a Entry level DSLR but it does not exactly fit in you purse/locker/backpack, but she will use it for special events(homecoming etc...).

We narrowed it down to the Panasonic LZ series, we have not decided WHICH exact model just yet(by end of this week).
The LZ2 is selling for $145 at Costco and is currently the favorite, But she would like the LZ5 that because it has the 2.5 inch LCD. And of course the LZ3 is right in the middle price and feature wise.
IMO if you are going to keep it in "dummy" mode, the LZ2 and LZ3 actually leave off some of the more advanced settings and it translates into savings VS the LZ5.
LZ2 VS LZ3 is lack of auto focus assist lamp(which is limited in actual use) and lack of AUDIO recoding in movie mode.

Yes Kelly is right the SD700 has much better noise performance, but it costs hundreds more and only has 4x optical zoom.

 

[RC Fan]

Hello!

My requirements are pretty much the same as yours, so I have also been looking at the Panasonic cameras. However I also want the lithium ion rechargeable battery, so I currently have a TZ-1 home, but I am returning it. I've read quite a few reviews, and people do complain about picture quality.

I too think the S2 IS or S3 IS are too bulky for me, not to mention more camera than I want. All I really want is a nice, compact point and shoot camera that takes nice pictures. I'd really like to have the image stabilization feature as a lot of reviews are expounding on the advantages of IS, so I am also looking at the SD700 IS. The SD 700 IS is like $600 here in Canada though.

 

[Kelly Grannell]

Whereabouts are you located? In the GTA? If you are, my friend (who own several stores) may be able to help you.

 

[RC Fan]

Hi Kelly!

I am in New Brunswick.

 

[Anewman]

However I also want the lithium ion rechargeable battery, so I currently have a TZ-1 home, but I am returning it. I've read quite a few reviews, and people do complain about picture quality.

You are not returning it based on reviews are you?

 

[RC Fan]

Actually, I am returning it because I am too cheap to pay $460 CAN for it.

 

[Anewman]

Actually, I am returning it because I am too cheap to pay $460 CAN for it.

OUCH, after conversion is that anywhere near $295us?

 

[RC Fan]

Honestly I don't think our prices have changed to reflect the exchange rate, unfortunately. I would buy a camera in the States in a heartbeat, but the warranty is only good in the US, which I feel is nuts.

 

[Kelly Grannell]

CAD 460 is about USD 420

 

[Anewman]

CAD 460 is about USD 420

Wow that is still about $125 over buydig/beachcamera prices($291+free shipping and no tax).

 

[Kelly Grannell]

it's fun living in Canada huh!

 

[Anewman]

it's fun living in Canada huh!

I feel bad, you guys can have Celine Dion and Pamela Anderson back...

We are done with them anyways

 

[Kelly Grannell]

Nooooo, keep them away from us!

 

[Anewman]

OK Deebo, Circuit City currently has the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-LZ3 on web sale.
$175 for 5mp, 6x optical, IMAGE Stabilization and it consumes AAs and SD cards. No it is not the best camera in the world but I have never seen a better camera in that price range.
Already ordered one, picking it up for my daughter in a couple hours will post samples later in the week.

 

[Deebo]

Thanks to everyone for the input.

Anewman-- I am anxiously looking forward to hearing your feedback after you have played with the LZ3 a little bit.