Ive been researching for a several weeks now about cameras. I was going to get a ultra compact but decided on something a little bigger. I want either the A710 or the A640. But I just cant decide on which one. I like to do a lot of shots outdoors on week end trips and Macro.

I like the A710 because.......
1. Its slightly smaller.

2. It uses less batteries.

3. I like the Image Stabalizer. But is it really that good if you dont tend to use a tripod?


I like A640 because..........

1. I just love that moveable screen.

2. It has 10 megapixels instead of 7. Ive heard though you start having some issues when you go over 7 megapixels? Is this true?

3. Have I mentioned im really liking that moveable screen a lot!

4. I like that you can take almost 500 pictures without charging the batteries. And is there any way to charge reuseable batteries while there in the camera. Can you buy a charger to plug into the dc plug? I love the fact I can just stick my coolpix s1 in a cradle and thats it.


Please help with any advice or knowledge you might have of these two cameras. Im going to make my choice by payday Friday.

I would go with the A710, just for the image stabilization. Image stabilization offers very real benefits to photographers and it will mean more good pictures in more varied conditions. I also like 7-megapixel sensors. I don't know if the 10-megapixel sensor will be worse. But I don't think you'll benefit much, if at all, from having 10 million pixels. I have lots of 8.5x11 prints made from 7-megapixel compact digital cameras and they all look great.

thanks for your replys and I have just ordered the Canon G7. My wife wasnt to happy on how much I spent but she knew I probably wouldnt have been happy with anything else and she would have had to listen to me complain for months about. Actually though she spoils me:D . But your reviews and answers helped lead me to this camera.

I think the G7 is an excellent choice. It's a lot more camera than either of the ones you originall mentioned. It's about as close as you can get to a digital SLR without actually buying one. The flash hotshoe alone makes it a much more flexible and powerful camera. Unless you decide you really want a digital SLR, it should serve you well for years. And even if you do buy a digital SLR, the G7 will make a great compact alternative if you don't want to cart around the SLR.