All cameras like the SX40 HS are very close in quality; there is not one significantly better than another. This is because they all use a digital imaging sensor of approximately the same size, and they all use lenses that have approximately the same aperture range (the aperture is not the zoom). Some cameras will be faster, such as the Nikon P500 or P510, but the speed will not help in low light...you would still get blurry pictures.
So...all small inexpensive cameras will work well in good light, but none will work well in low light if they subject is moving. The best choice is to choose one, and if you need to use it in low light of moving subjects, shoot video instead.
If you want a smaller camera with a good zoom range that is fast, look at the Nikon S9100. It has what you want, except for working well in low light moving subjects. It can work pretty well in low light stationary subjects with its Night Landscape and Night Portrait modes.
Can anyone suggest a suitable camera for following requirements please :
1.for taking pictures quickly of moving objects like kids.
2.good zoom to take clear pictures/video from distance,like if we are seated away from the stage in an auditorium.
3.good quality pics
4.date stamping option
5.good vacation/outdoors/indoors/low light pics
6.within Rs 30k.
7.a camera that can take video/pictures at the same time,as i will be needing pics and video of an event simultaneously,like expressions on my kid's face on his 1st day at school.....and like that some more moments.......or should i buy a camcorder and a camera separately,though it will be difficult to handle both.....
8.easy to handle(with my kid around).
I know about this new Canon powershot SX40HS,bt its reviews say its quite slow and also heavy and difficult to carry and too much a risk for its price.
please help !!

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