Help decide between ex-z750 and S500

[BaileyMoto]

Here are some of my wants and needs:

mpeg-4 (both have)
5mp (both have at least)
pocket size design - both are good, s500 is better
z750 has manual shutter speed

a nice feature is also that both have the ability to select video mode w/o having to go into the internal options. the z750 has a dial, while the s500 has a video button.

I like the size of the s500, but I am wondering if the z750 has much better picture quality? Also, s500 does ~200 pictures, while z750 does around 400.

Can any of you chime in that own either cam and possibly help sway me? :)

[clocker]

Easy choice: Z750, ,unless the added thickness REALLY matters e.g. you're gonna wear it on your belt or something...

[eliottSF]

I just bought the z750 on recommendations from my friends - all of us grew up with manual focus SLRs.

If you are someone who wants a nice point and shoot, both cameras will do a fine job. But for me, the SD550 does not allow as much control over presets, or does not allow aperture or shutter priority, nor manual focus - all of which the z750 offers.

At the same time, I wanted a small camera I could fit in my pocket, so of course all of those features have their limitations considering the format.

The SD550 is a bit smaller. I just feel that once you get a gadget, like a cell phone, you may start to play around and get the fullest use of its more advanced features - I would go with the z750.