Hello Everyone,

Im looking at buying a digital camera in the next week or so and have narrowed it down to two models - the Sony DSC W7 and the Sony P200.

They are both 7.2 Mp and similar priced, however the P200 is a lot smaller but cannot find any differences within the specification! The link below shows the reviews:

Sony DSC W7 : http://www.steves-digicams.com/2005_reviews/w7.html

P200 : http://www.steves-digicams.com/2005_reviews/p200.html

Obviously i will go for the smaller out of the two but im not sure wather im going to loose out on something that the W7 might have? Im more inclined to go for the P200 as i really want to carry it around easily in pocket. Your help would be much appreciated.

Cheers

Dan-
I believe the main difference between the two cameras lies in the exposure options. All of the Sony P-Series cameras are pure point-and-shoots. That means they don't really have any manual exposure control options. They're also smaller than the W7. The DSC-W7 offers a lot more exposure control options, including full manual exposure control. And since the W7 is larger, it also has a bigger LCD. Here's a link to our Sony DSC-W7 Pro Review: http://www.photographyreview.com/cat/cameras/digital-cameras/6-megapixel-and-higher/sony/PRD_335597_5648crx.aspx?TabID=2

And here's a link to the Sony P200 review page, where you'll find three user reviews: http://www.photographyreview.com/cat/cameras/digital-cameras/6-megapixel-and-higher/sony/PRD_332514_5648crx.aspx

Hope that helps you make your decision. Let us know if you have more questions.

Oh right ok thanks a lot for the reply. I had a look at the two models in the sony shop today and i really like the W7, however it is very bulky. I will really be using the camera as a point and shoot for when i go flying and go out with friends. Do you think i will benefit from the extra exposure options that are on the W7?

The sizing of the P200 is very impressive, even though you sacrifice display screen size on back.

Maybe not at first Dan, but as you use the camera more and learn to be more discerning about your images you will begin to feel held back by the lack of control. Also a lil bulk is a good thing. Helps you to hold the camera steady. Ultimately only you can decide what's best for you, but i would always buy on the side of better control.