Find the Best Digital Camera Under $200.00

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around finding a digital camera under $200 that offers good picture and video quality. Participants share their experiences, preferences, and recommendations regarding various camera brands and models, while also discussing features that contribute to image quality.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Conceptual clarification

Main Points Raised

  • One participant emphasizes that camera quality is not solely determined by megapixels, suggesting that lens quality is more important.
  • Several participants recommend Canon cameras, noting their lens quality and reliability, with some mentioning specific models like the Canon S1-IS and Canon Powershot SD600.
  • Others suggest considering Panasonic and Nikon cameras, highlighting specific models such as the Panasonic Lumix and Nikon Coolpix series.
  • Some participants express a preference for smaller, pocket-sized cameras, while others mention the drawbacks of larger models.
  • There are discussions about the features of various cameras, including optical zoom versus digital zoom and unique functionalities like selective color photography.
  • One participant mentions that while they are willing to consider cameras slightly above $200, they seek significant improvements in quality for the additional cost.
  • Concerns are raised about the performance of certain cameras in low-light conditions, particularly regarding focus speed.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the importance of lens quality and the preference for compact cameras. However, there are multiple competing views regarding the best brands and models, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding which specific camera is the best choice under $200.

Contextual Notes

Participants express varying opinions on camera features and quality, with some emphasizing the need for good performance in low-light situations. There are also differing preferences for camera size and functionality, which may affect recommendations.

  • #31
You did not state that in the OP, Cyrus. I simply showed what best quality you could get for $200. And no, the FZ8 isn't that big as it looks although it will not fit in a pocket. Have a look you at the TZ3 in my previous post
 
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  • #33
turbo-1 said:
pocket cameras
http://www.digitalcamera-hq.com/digital-cameras/ultra-compact_ratings.html
Cyrus, check out the optical zoom on those cameras, if you care about that. Most cameras come with 3X-5X zoom (and few start at 28mm); Olympus goes up to 7X and Panasonic has a 10X Leica lens. If you really care a lot about the extra wide angle and telephoto capability, the choice is clear. If not, look into the Canon SD series.
 
  • #34
Andre has posted some pretty impressive shots made with a compact Panasonic/Leica camera, and if I was looking for a small camera, that's where I would start. I love my Canons, but I still have my Olympus 3040 Zoom for times when I want to have something compact to throw into a pocket of a parka, hunting jacket, etc. It's just a bit big for a shirt pocket, but still handy to have at times. Plus, I can set the presets for my wife (flash/red-eye reduction/optical zoom only, etc) and she can turn it on in program mode and get pretty good shots of family functions, birthday parties, etc.
 
  • #35
Shots I made with the FZ8:

BBF.JPG

feedingtime.JPG

butterfly3.PNG

fz-8.jpg
 
  • #36
Andre said:
Shots I made with the FZ8:

Those are nice shots, but they were taken with a camera I am not even considering to buy.
 
  • #38
Im considering the powershot. But this one is 250.00. I've seen lesser models for 200, so what's 50.00 getting me on this one that isn't on the other one?
 
  • #39
Which model of the Powershot are you looking at?
 
  • #40
http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelInfoAct&fcategoryid=145&modelid=14901

http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelInfoAct&fcategoryid=145&modelid=14919

Are both $200.00, but I don't know how 'good' they are.
 
  • #41
Cyrus said:
http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelInfoAct&fcategoryid=145&modelid=14901

http://www.usa.canon.com/consumer/controller?act=ModelInfoAct&fcategoryid=145&modelid=14919

Are both $200.00, but I don't know how 'good' they are.

Ask the owners:

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/read_opinions.asp?prodkey=canon_sd1000

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/read_opinions.asp?prodkey=canon_sd750
 
Last edited by a moderator:
  • #42
Cyrus said:
Im considering the powershot. But this one is 250.00. I've seen lesser models for 200, so what's 50.00 getting me on this one that isn't on the other one?

Basically more megapixles and better video capability.

Here is a different page from the sites Andre posted. It features all of the Cannon line up features and comparable price shopping.

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/specs/Canon/
 
Last edited by a moderator:

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