Canon's with IS - S3 vs A710 vs SD700 vs SD800 vs ... ?

[danew]

Pretty simple-- wanting a new digital camera to replace our Panasonic DMC-LC43 which seems to be pretty bad in low-light conditions.

Needs:

1) IS for shaky hands, and to help in long-shutter shots

2) quick flash recycle time (most pics will be low-light indoor of the kids)

3) Easy to take anywhere

Wants but not musts:

1) Av, Tv, etc. modes

2) High zoom or adapter capability for higher zoom

Looking At:

A) Powershot S3 - seems a bit bulky, but overall a great camera

B) Powershot A710 - less bulky, but reviews state very slow flash recycle time

C) Powershot SD700 - even less bulky, seems to have better flash recovery

D) Powershot SD800 - Claimed Digic III response time even better.


Seems that the A710 would have fit my bill NICELY (all my needs AND wants) except for the flash recycle time issue.

I'm currently leaning towards the SD800 due to its very small size while still maintaining what I understand to be a very quality picture, and much faster response time (esp. with flash) than most other of the Canon line.

I have not found any other Canon or non-Canon models (based on reviews) that I should be looking into -- if any recomendations, I'd like to know!

thanks,
..dane

[mtclimber]

Dane-

IMHO I think the Canon A-710 IS best meets your requirements, you will have to compromise on the flash recycle time. The SD-800 IS has been noted in professional reviews (http://www.dcresource.com) to produce photos lacking in detail with a "watercolor effect" when used at high ISO settings.

MT/Sarah

[danew]

Not sure about compromising on the flash time... that's one of the key aspects for my wife...

Wolf Camera, though more expensive than some, at least does have a return policy without a restocking fee. Maybe I'll have to buy both the a710 and sd800 and let us play with them both in our home to see which we prefer..

..dane

[mtclimber]

Dane-

That is not a bad idea. Let us all know the results of your investigation. Thanks!

MT/Sarah