Lumix TZ6 or Canon Powershot SX200???

[Kiki]

Hi all,

Does anyone have any opinions on which camera would be the best option?

I usually use my Canon EOS400d but I am going away hiking and want something more compact to take with me. I like that both cameras have a wider lens than the normal compact and a high optical zoom and I like the manual control aspect of the Canon but I would love to get some feedback on other people's opinions / experiences with either camera.

Thanks in advance!

[Photo-John]

I haven't used those two cameras. But I have used some of the other Panasonic TZ-Series Lumix cameras as well as a lot of Canon compacts. Lately my standard point-and-shoot recommendation has been the Panasonic ZS3/TZ7, the follow-up to the TZ6 you're looking at. I love the flexibility of the camera and the iA Intelligent Auto mode works really, really well. It's also pretty damn good for videos. If I remember right, the Canon is a bit larger than the Panasonic, which is already a bit large if you want to carry it in a pocket. However, in my experience that Canon point-and-shoots have the best image quality. So it comes down to image quality vs flexibility. I like using the Panasonic more, but I can definitely see the image quality compromise. For me, I think it's a fair trade because the Panasonic is so nice to use. If I need better image quality I'll probably just go to the digital SLR, anyway.

Sorry you didn't get an answer sooner. I hope my reply helps. Let me know if you have any more questions. I think you're looking in the right direction. These pocket superzooms are getting really good now - no matter which one you decide to go with.

[Kiki]

Thanks for your reply. I am still undecided after reading reviews as I know the TZ6 is very popular, but a lot of people are also recommending the Canon! Do you think there is much difference in the image quality?