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General discussion

searching for a digital camera

Oct 27, 2004 2:21PM PDT

I've been searching for a digital camera and so far I have liked the Canon A80 the best. I also noticed that there is an A85 with a slightly bigger LCD, but there is no review for this model. I was wondering if anyone knows of any major differences between the two as far as picture quality and features. Maybe someone could suggest something better as well. I just want a sturdy 4-megapixel camera with at least a 3x optical zoom. Good picture quality with minimal purple fringing is a must, and I want a fast response from the time I press the shoot button til the shutter goes off.

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Re: searching for a digital camera
Oct 28, 2004 12:44AM PDT
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Re: searching for a digital camera
Oct 28, 2004 10:26AM PDT

The A75 has 3.2 mega-pixels and the A85 has 4.
Most,if not all, the other features are the same.
The A85 costs about $100.00US more than the A75.
I just purchased an A85 and am very pleased with it. I am not sure the extra 0.8 mega-pixels were worth the $100.00 as I understand the A75 takes a real sharp picture.
If you buy on line make sure you handle the camera first. Ease of handling is a very important feature. Some of the pocket size may appear attractive but are awkward to handle. I like the "feel" of the Canons.
I am repeating myself as I have posted before the fact that the November issue of Consumer Reports has a very extensive section on digital cameras.
Good luck.

DC

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Re: searching for a digital camera
Oct 30, 2004 6:08AM PDT

As far as your search for digital camera is concerned all the brands are good but if you are really looking for a realone with outstanding performance, big screen , clarity and sharp performance go for SONY. They have come out with new models with 4MP 5MP and 7MP. I tested all of them at an exhibition and believe me they are all gr8 product. The 5MP is rated the best buy and has a big screen and you can even have additional lens to that which increases focus. The 7MP is the same but just the Megapixel and screen difference. Rest is same with outstanding performance. I even tried canon a75 and the latest models but didnt get enough clarity. a75 is rated the best according to cnet but the clarity is not at par with the other models. really very disappointing. I dont know how they tested it but really not up to the mark. SONY is the best - i really tried everything but SONY is SONY nothing can compare it.

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I will Guarantee
Oct 30, 2004 8:55AM PDT

Gravey,
I will guarantee no matter what camera you purchase someone will tell you you could have done better.
Only you know what you want out of a camera and only you know how much you can afford.
I would advise you to shop retail outlets and find the one that fits your needs. Different outlets may be pushing different brands but they still can be a source of valuable information. Don't let any one talk you into buying until you are sure what you want. At that point you may want to buy online to get a better price but look very close at customer service records.
Most reputable retail outlets have a 30 day return policy and that can be a plus.

Good luck.

DC