It is no worse than any other camera I have ever owned. The 510 has three focusing points but the E3 has 11. I agree you will be suprised. It has to be fairly dark. It is as much to do with the lens as the camera. If you upgrade to the 14-54mm focusing is much easier in low light and faster to.The bigger diameter the lens the more light gets in and the camera performs better. The kit lens is 58mm and the 14-54 67mm. So naturaly it will focus quicker. The 510 is a very good deal right now. Plus it is a very durable camera. Built very tough. It's one reason I choice Olympus. Their cameras seem durable. You might consider 510 (body only) and then get the 14-54mm and then pick up the 40-150mm later. That's what I would do. There is a rebate on the 14-54mm through July as well.