Help me pick a digital camera...

Joined
Jan 28, 2003
Messages
261
I am looking for the best value in a digital camera that I can find in the $300-$350 dollar range. This is for a Christmas gift, and since I know nothing about them, I need your help. Any suggestions?
Thanks in advance.
 
I've had great experiences with the Nikon 4300. It seems to be right in your price range. Downsides, it's plastic. But then again, all digitals are plastic in that price range.
 
I think the Fuji's are great cameras for the money. You just need to get over the natural bias we all have against a company like that actually maiking good cameras. A friend showed me his a few weeks ago and I was impressed. Cost 1/3 of what my Lieca did and seems to do most of the same things.

I still wouldn't trade the Lieca for anything however, it's the sebbie of digitals. I took my avatar with it.
 
I have a P72 Sony bought in part because I have a Sony computer and I wanted it easily compatible. I think it's very versitle and good value. Make sure to get the latest model of the camera you buy since they change about every year and improve.
 
I just got a Canon A80. I got a lot of info from the guys on CPF and this site was most helpful with their reviews
DPREVIEW

I was totally blown away by the vivid color, clarity and detail of this 4 meg camera.
My criteria was:
aa batts or commonly available maybe 123. This takes aa

common memory card. A80 takes compact flash. I got 512 meg. comes with 32 card. too small. I took 300 pics at hi res and used just over 50%.

compact size. this is easy shirt pocket fit.

Auto for dummies. A80 is a killer in the auto mode. Surpasses my expectations or hopes.

Manual settings for available darkness, portrait, fstop speed, etc. Fits the bill...

lowest price I've seen is ~$325. Lists for $399
I highly recommend this one.
Good hunting
Tom
 
The Canon A70, A80 or SD10 (my fav) are what I recommend.

The 4.0 megapixel SD10 has rechargable batteries and has an aluminum case (I'm pretty sure). www.jandr.com is an excellent retailer and almost always has the best prices. $330 for the SD10.
 
While there are many "good" digital cameras in your
price range I'll have to vote for the Canon line
with the A70, A80 leading the pack as a user cameras.

WHAT EVER YOU BUY PAY ATTENTION TO THE BATTERIES!

If at all possible AVOID ANY camera that uses a
special battery. Pick a camera that uses good ol'
AA or 123 batteries. :cool:
 
Thanks guys,

After careful consideration I decided to add a few more dollars and get the Canon A80. I got a great deal online, so I really didn't have to add much cash to what I was planning on spending.
 
I like Nikon because of the nikor lens. IMHO, Nikon's pics look better somehow. I've used Coolpix 5000, and it's a great camera although a little bit complicated.

A little reminder. You know that all electronics goods are prone to defects, so you might want to purchase the camera from a brick and mortar store. Online businesses do not have reliable warranty. It might be better to pay more but you'll get better warranty. So, you don't have to worry about breaking the camera. I know I don't. I even think about breaking mine on purpose so I can trade it up with a newer model, but alas, I'm too attached to mine.... Drats !
 
I have had great success with the Sony cameras. They come with rechargeable battery and charger, something a lot of digitals don't come with. Super easy to use software too.
 
sharpstick, Where did you get it and how much $?
I'm in the market for another one :)
Tom
 
Email me at kehaw72@yahoo.com and I will give you the store info. I don't want to advertise on the forums. I got the Canon A80 Camera, extra compact flash card, tripod, cleaning kit, carrying case and two different photoshop CD's for $349.00. This is a new, not refurbished, USA version camera with warranty.

The local Best Buy has the Canon A80 Camera by itself for $399. The other forum members were right, this camera has gotten some great reviews and is listed second on Yahoo's top ten list of digital cameras.
 
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