For the money, I'd go with the Canon, but I know nothing of Pentax. The Xs is a newer camera, and you'd get two lenses.

Can you find out how many actuations it has (how many times the shutter has been activated, sort of like checking the mileage).

Also, is the 18-55 f3-5.6 kit lens? You might want to compare reviews for this one and the Pentax.

There are some very good slr-like cameras out there,with manual options and less shutter lag. I still have my Canon S3. However, six months after I bought it, I was wishing I had held out for a DSLR. I'm just sayin' :smilewinkgrin:

HTH,

Cath