Rugged P & S with or without AA batteries?

[Luke Stepp]

I'm looking for a new P & S to use for my work (photos for reports and record keeping -- nothing fancy). Wide angle is a nice option that will help for interior shots, and this camera will get a lot of abuse. I prefer a smaller camera because I wear it on my belt along with other tools.

Here is my issue: in the past I've always used cameras with AA batteries b/c I keep extra eneloop batteries in my work bag and can quickly switch them out. Additionally, I can always go to the corner store for cheap batteries.

Obviously more cameras are going away from the AA battery to proprietary batteries, and charging in the truck is an option for such a camera.

I've considered the Sony H200, since it appears to be a good camera. It is a bit larger than I prefer, but it can be had for less than $150. I've also considered the Lumix line and some of the rugged "shock-proof and water-proof" cameras because of the way my cameras get treated on the job.

Any suggestions?

[Weebee]

You may want to check out the Fujifilm XP series. I've had one for a few years and it's a great P&S camera. It's water proof to 10', dust, freeze, and shock proof. I just leave it in the car and it's fine. The pictures are very clear.