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Expert Recommendation
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Overview
In the ultra-compact category, nothing is more svelte than the Exilim EX-S770, a real sleeper that’s worth choosing over better-known brands. Don’t buy it just because it’s light as a feather; buy it for a surprisingly good blend of features and performance, like high ISO capability and faster autofocusing than one might expect. This make it a good choice for shooting young children or pets in action or low-light situations, while the small size means you can easily fit it in a diaper bag or shirt pocket..
My Best In Class Pick
Casio EXILIM CARD EX-S770
CasioEX-S770. This is a tough call, as both the Casio and the Canon have the same amount of MPs and comparable features. On the surface, the optical lens stabilization of Canon’s IS would seem better than the digital stabilization of Casio’s DSP, but then you have to think about what you actually use the camera for. The faster auto-focusing and good low-light performance of the Casio make a big difference in real-world usage, and as compact as the ELPH is, the Exilim is a tad more diminutive, making it a true ultra-compact. Don’t expect DSLR-like performance from one of these little guys, but for a go-anywhere camera that barely takes up any room at all, the Exilim delivers high performance for its class.
Where to buy
Casio EXILIM CARD EX-S770
Comparing My Best In Class Pick with Other Good Choices
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| Price | $499.99 | ||
| Size (W x H x D) | 3.7 x 2.4 x 0.7 in. | 3.5 x 2.3 x 1.0 in. | 3.6 x 2.3 x 0.9 in. |
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Effective Sensor Resolution
The Effective Sensor Resolution tells you the total number of pixels that are recorded when you take a picture. The units are MP, which stands for megapixels or millions of pixels. For outstanding fine compression prints, 3MP is required for 5x7's, 7.1MP for 8x10's, and 10.9MP for 11x14's. The effective sensor resolution is only one of many important factors that will determine the quality of the photograph when displayed or printed at different sizes.
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7.2 megapixels | 7.1 megapixels | 8.1 megapixels |
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Min Focal Length (35 mm equivalent)
The 35 mm equivalent focal length is a measure that indicates the angle of view of a particular combination of a camera lens and the sensor size. The term originates from the time when the vast majority of photography was done with 35 mm film. On any 35 mm film camera, a 30 mm or less lens is considered a wide-angle lens.
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38 mm | 28 mm | 35 mm |
| Optical Zoom | 3.0x | 3.8x | 5.0x |
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Image Stabilization Available
Image stabilization features are designed to reduce the blur that results from normal, minute shaking of a lens due to hand-held shooting. However, image stabilization does not prevent motion blur caused by the movement of the subject or by extreme movements of the camera.
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Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Image Stabilization Type | Digital | Optical | Optical |
| Max Shutter Speed | 1/2000 sec | 1/1600 sec | 1/1000 sec |
| Max ISO Setting | 800 | 1600 | 3200 |
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LCD Screen Size
The LCD Screen Size is the length of the miniature LCD monitor measured diagonally.
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2.8 in. | 2.5 in. | 3.0 in. |
| LCD Screen Resolution | 230400 pixels | 207000 pixels | 230000 pixels |
| Storage Media | SD Memory Card | SD Memory Card, SDHC Memory Card | Memory Stick Duo, Memory Stick PRO Duo |
| Sensor Raw Format Available | No | No | No |
| Battery Type | Proprietary Lithium Ion Rechargeable | Proprietary Lithium Ion Rechargeable | Proprietary Lithium Ion Rechargeable |
Canon PowerShot SD800 IS
The Canon ELPH is the prototype compact camera; the film version was reportedly used by supermodels to document backstage goings-on at runway events. You don’t have to be a supermodel these days to use one, but good looks have remained the hallmark of this successful product line. Canon offers many different ELPH variations, but the 7.1 MP SD 800 stands out in the crowded ELPH lineup because of its Image Stabilization feature, which works with the DIGIC II processor to deliver blur-free images, even at low shutter speeds. Other features include Face Detection, for better people (and pet) pics, a 3.8x zoom (film equivalent 28-105mm) for wide-angle and portrait shots, and a top ISO of 1600. All this at a weight of just 5.3 oz.
Where to buy
Canon PowerShot SD800 IS
- Recommended at DPReview.com
- Dave's Pick at Imaging-Resource.com
- Rated Very Good by CNET.com
Sony Cybershot DSC-T100
The Sony offers the biggest zoom (5x) in the ultra-compact field, and comes in three colors for the fashion-conscious casual photographer. It stuffs 8 MP and a 3” LCD into its tiny body, and features a Carl Zeiss lens for crisp images. Auto ISO means the camera will automatically adjust to different lighting conditions, and user-selectable settings go up to ISO 3200. It can fire bursts at 2.2 FPS in continuous-shooting mode, and offers HD-optimized connections for full-resolution viewing on HDTVs. But the lack of an image stabilization feature makes the T100 a shaky proposition for all but the most steady-handed photographer.
Where to buy
Sony Cybershot DSC-T100
How It Works
You tell us your budget, intended uses, and desired features. We show you personalized recommendations from unbiased experts to quickly identify the best digital camera for you.
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How to Pick Digital Cameras
- For Travel Photos
- For Photos of Children or Pets
- For Action or Sports Photos
- For Photos in Low Light
