in general which is better?

I have been searching for a good digital camera for a month and I finally have it narrowed down to 2 choices. The Canon Powershot SD450 and Casio Exilim EX-Z57. I know Canon has a great reputation with their picture quality. I also know that Casio's battery lasts longer, but its big 2.7" screen takes up all the room and prevents it from having the old style eye hole to take pictures with. There are pros and cons for both but I can't decide. I was hoping if I can get some opinions and suggestions on which one is better and which one I should pick. I am mainly going to use the digital camera for special occasions. Any helpful suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Welcome to the forum!

I don't think this is a "which is better question" but is a "personal preference question". Myself I would want to have the option of both choices.

Having used a 35mm camera all my life I just find it easier to use the viewfinder. Also there are some situations that having only the LCD screen shining like a big flashlight in the audience would be very distracting to everyone around or behind me. I didn't look at the cameras to see how they differ I just answered the question you ask.

All the reivews i've read about the casio you listed....... aren't so great... sure it has a huge lcd ... but, the image quality coming out, is... not so good at all.

I'd go for the canon if i were you, definitely a far better camera