Quality Compact Digital Camera (Canon Digital Ixus V3)

Member Name: cunray

Product:	Canon Digital Ixus V3
Date:	25/06/03 (215 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Small, hardwearing, Good battery life, Easy to use

Disadvantages: Small memory card included, Only 2x optical zoom

As this was going to be my first digital camera, I spend a lot of time researching on the internet and in magazines. I wanted to make sure I got the best camera I could for the best price. The IXUS V3 has a lot going for it, but the first thing you need to ask yourself is what do you want to do with your digital camera? For me - I wanted something small that I could put in my pocket (without discomfort), and take everywhere with me. I wanted to be able to take pictures relatively quickly, and for them to be of a good quality so I could get prints if I wanted to. The V3 was all of these things. It is very compact, and the time between shots is quite fast. It is also hardwearing, so suitable for carrying around with you.

The LCD screen is of a decent size, and updates quickly; and the button layout is very intuitive with each button doubling up as something else depending on which mode you are in. The battery life is good - you'll get around 150-200 shots in before you need to change the battery, although I would recommend buying a spare one. Also, the CF card (memory card) that comes with the camera is only 16MB - I bought a 256MB card with it (holds around 270 pictures on the default resolution). Something else which may be useful is a leather case, as it protects the camera (especially the LCD screen), and you can attach it to your belt.

Currently (June 2003) the IXUS V3 can be found online for around £260. With a spare battery, bigger CF card and case, you're looking at around £350 altogther. Check out www.pricerunner.com for the best prices.

I give this 5 Stars because it's perfect for what i wanted - however if you're got different needs, this may not be the camera for you. (A good camera with more features is the Canon Powershot S45.)

Summary: