Help Me Choose A Camera

[nelo10]

I recently had a Canon A720IS which I lost to the ocean while fishing, so with summer here and a few trips coming up, I'm going to need a new one. My price limit is $350, and i'm looking for great picture quality, decent zoom, and video. Here's some of my choices so far, including the same A720. Recommendations not on my list in the same price range would be helpful too, thanks.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ5



Canon PowerShot A720 IS



Canon PowerShot A650 IS

[Liz]

All of these cameras have good reviews. And they are all different in many respects. The TZ5 is a bit heavier, but has a much bigger zoom with wide angle 28-280. And the A650 has the twist LCD screen. They all put out quality images. Most p&s cameras have problems in low light, so you have to work with that.

I can speak for the TZ5 which I just purchased, but the others I'm not as familiar with except what I've read. The TZ5 has excellent IQ, color rendition and with a little work will give you nice portraits, even indoors. I love the WA - not too easy to find in a p&s. It has a beautiful 3" lcd screen. I've been very happy with this camera.

TZ3 review - the upgraded TZ5 has 9mp - and the IQ is even better. The link following are some samples from the TZ5

http://reviews.photographyreview.com...z3-pro-review/

http://gmchappell.smugmug.com/date/2...8-05-31#P-23-9

Review for the A640 - the 650 is basically the same with a few changes - like IS

http://www.photographyreview.com/cat...x.aspx?TabID=2

Good luck

ETA: Here is a link to B&H - if you scroll down you can get the specifications and features - B&H has the most complete info. The price is $319 - no tax unless you live in NY. JR.com has the camera for $299 no tax (except NY) and free ship.

http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/produc...al_Camera.html

Liz

[sutherland]

Sub $400 range, my votes go for the Canon Powershot S5 IS and the Sony DSC-H50.

[Anbesol]

definitely pick up the Minolta Dimage A200, definitely the best value/bang for buck you can find in that price range. It is slightly larger in size, but about the exact same weight with a lot more on the feature side of things, plus a much better lens.