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Question

Nikon S8200 vs, the Canon - PowerShot SX230HS

Nov 16, 2011 4:58PM PST

Boy this is a tough decision for me. Want to pick up one of these two for my son in the Military. The Nikon as I hear it has a sensor that will make the indoor shots better than the Canon. But the Canon has a GPS which was one of the features I liked about it.

So right now I am siding with the Canon.

Here's the question, is the Nikons S8200 indoor shots that noticably better, that I may want to go with the Nikon camera? Or are the two relatively close as it is with indoor pictures, and it shouldn't matter?

Or is their even anotherr reason why I should go with the Nikon?

Thanks...

Discussion is locked

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Answer
BSI CMOS Sensor
Nov 16, 2011 9:53PM PST

Both cameras use the same type of sensor. Regardless, they would be very close in quality; you probably would not notice a difference unless looking at images side-by-side at 100% size. Both cameras also employ in-camera HDR for low-light photos without flash or tripod; Canon calls it Handheld NightScene, Nikon calls it Night Landscape. Note that these modes are only for static subjects. The Canon has an advantage in available shutter speeds; it can keep the shutter open as long as 15 seconds (for use at night on a tripod), while the Nikon has a maximum of 4 seconds. The Nikon has somewhat better battery life (and leaving the GPS function on on the Canon really eats up power).

You might also look at the Sony HX9V.

http://www.photographyblog.com/reviews/canon_powershot_sx230_hs_review/

http://www.photographyblog.com/reviews/nikon_coolpix_s8200_review/

http://www.photographyblog.com/reviews/sony_cybershot_dsc_hx9v_review/

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Answer
GPS - something to think about
Nov 16, 2011 11:38PM PST

There are disadvantages with a GPS and the military.

If your son will be in a combat area, the GPS can be very risky.
If he should post pictures on the web, anyone that sees the pictures can find his EXACT location.
If he should lose his camera, anyone who finds the camera can find his EXACT location.

When in the Army, I served some time in the artillery.
With that GPS information; even without a forward observer, a howitzer team can place an artillery shell within 75 yards of that EXACT location.

..