In the under $350 price range, there are only three long zoom cameras:
The new Konica Minolta Z20 - 5 Megapixel and 8X zoom.
The Konica Minolta Z10 - 3 Megapixel and 8X zoom
The Kodak DX6490 - 4 megapixel and 10X zoom
There is also the Fujifilm E550, which is 6 megapixels and 4X zoom, which sells for about $330.
Forget digital zoom - it degrades the quality of the photo.
Anything from 3 to 5 megapixels can provide great photos. If you want to print large 8 x 10 inch photos, go for the 4 or 5 megapixels.
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Hi. I currently own a Kodak EasyShare CX6230, 2.0 Mega Pixels with 3X optical zoom and I've had it since last Christmas, over a year ago. I love the camera, the only problem is the battery life SUCKS. Also, the zoom is not that great and I want to upgrade my camera for one that will best suit me.
I'm going to study abroad in May for 3 weeks, and I will be taking LOTS, hundreds, of pictures and I don't think my camera will perform as good as I want it to perform. So, what do you suggest I get, in a budget of up to $350? I need good zoom and GREAT battery life.
What do I need more, mega pixels, optical zoom, or digital zoom? Now, I'm not a high tech whiz so please BREAK IT DOWN FOR ME! BE SPECIFIC!
Thank you for your help!
YLC

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