S3 vs G7

[mcpaul]

Okay, I would really value opinions on this one. Currently I use an S-50 as my 'point and shoot' and really like the results. However, it is so worn the dial on the top no longer has symbols on it!!! I use a 300D as my SLR camera.

I would like to replace the S-50 and have looked at the S3; like the IS feature, zoom of course looks good too (although the feel of the camera doesn't really suit my hand; always liked the 'bigger' feel of Canon from my old AE-1 on!)

Any opinions on the new G7 over the S3? Obviously I get the benefit of 10Mps, but less zoom; I am more interested though in the performance differneces and any experiences with them!!! I read a lot about the S3 from more 'amatuer' users (absolutely no offence meant - I have seen some brilliant results) but wonder what I might be more happy with?

I know I need to replace my 4300D soon (okay, the Rebel in USA) but am waiting for a full frame, 12Mps with IS and flash for under $1500. Never come, I know, but I can dream!!!

[Liz]

I can't compare the two cameras because I have only used the G3. However, I will say that those G cameras are awesome.......I loved mine. It was as close to a DSLR as I could get without getting one. Since you like the bigger and/or heavier camera, I would think the G7 would be what you're looking for in a P&S. They G cameras are heavier, and worth their "weight in gold" as a P&S.

My G3 gave me excellent results - great IQ - sharp, good color.....excellent features. The IS on the S3 is a great feature, though. It has good reviews also. It's a tough decision. What about price? I know the G7 is almost as much as a DSLR - but a lot closer in features, etc. than most other P&S cameras.

Sorry if this isn't a great help. If I were to get a P&S today and wanted a heavier camera, I would sure get the G7.

Liz

[mcpaul]

Thanks, Liz - actually that is really helpful. The basic design of the G7 seems to suit and price is okay for me. Neither shoot in RAW (my preferred format) so nothing to choose there! And both require a change of cards to SD, but then the prices have really fallen, so not a great deal there either!

[mcpaul]

And I just found out my 430EX will fit on the top of it . . . looking more and more sold on this little beauty!

[Liz]

And I just found out my 430EX will fit on the top of it . . . looking more and more sold on this little beauty!

Sounds like you're making the right choice! Keep us updated - and post some pics when you get the camera! Awesome camera btw! One of the best P&S made.

Liz

[mcpaul]

Sounds like you're making the right choice! Keep us updated - and post some pics when you get the camera! Awesome camera btw! One of the best P&S made.

Liz

I will, I promise!!!

[Photo-John]

I'd go with the G7. The G-Series cameras are really well-built and feel like serious cameras. The G7 looks like they've put a lot of effort into making the camera look and feel like a "real" camera. And it also has image stabilization. So you won't be giving that up if you go with the G7.

While the S3 IS is a powerful camera with excellent features, it feels and looks kinda cheesy. If you had both cameras sitting right in front of you, the S3 would look like a toy next to the G7.

We have the G6 at the office and I have used that and the G2 extensively. Although it's not just like using an SLR or film rangefinder, using a G-Series Canon is the next best thing. You have almost all the control you'd have with an SLR and the image quality is very good - up to a point. Don't expect to be able to get clean images at high ISO settings with any compact. That said, at ISO 200 and below, it will be excellent. So will the S3, for that matter.

And yes, you can use your flash. I used my 550EX flash with the G2 and G6 all the time. That alone makes it a much more powerful camera.

[mcpaul]

Excellent points - and most useful hearing the experience from other cameras in the 'G' range. Doing price comparisons at the moment!!!