Optio S4i or Canon SD200?

[FarCas]

Hi,
I am interested in buying an ultra compact digital camera. Currently, I have narrowed it down to the Canon SD200 and the Optio S4i. However, the more reviews I read, the more confused I get. Can anyone help me make a decision?
I am really just looking for a "cute" camera, that is capable to take nice pictures at the same time.

[blazinterry]

Hey!

Just wondering, do you need the zoom? If so, go for the Pentax. Also, check for the prices in your area for a tiebreaker if both of those cameras have pros and cons that are hard to decide.

Good Luck!

[FarCas]

Hi Blazinterry,

Thanks for the reply.
I am leaning more towards the Optio S4i now.
Just because of the size. Since the prices are so similar, that's really not a factor. However, speed and image quality are, which seem to be better on the SD200. Do you think that eventhough the Pentax doesn't have an AF assist lamp, it'll still be able to make decent pictures? I am only interested in taking photo's on holidays and vacation.

Thanks

[PixGuy]

Have you tried out both cameras yet? The tie breaker is to go to a store and try it out. Best Buy is great for that...so is Ritz. Ritz will actually let you buy the camera and within 10 days return it in trade for the other camera (with paid difference) and if within 10 days you want to go back to the first camera...they're prefectly ok with it! I went through 3 cameras in a month before I settled on one.

[humara]

I've been a canon user for years, but finally made the switch to the optio s when it was first released. I had to sell it on ebay within 2 weeks since its 3mp images were horrible compared to the 2mp images from my s200.
I've always wanted to give the optio line another shot. EVery new optio has always exhibited unacceptable levels of noise. even when shooting with the lowest ISO possible. the s5i is ok but if you look at sample images at 100% you'll see they are still not as good as the canon.
Now that canon has a camera that is so close in size to the optio, there should be no problem with a decision at all. the sd200 at 3.2mp takes much better images than the optio s4i, s5i or any other model they have right now.

[humara]

Hey!

Just wondering, do you need the zoom? If so, go for the Pentax. Also, check for the prices in your area for a tiebreaker if both of those cameras have pros and cons that are hard to decide.

Good Luck!

That makes no sense. they both have 3x zoom.

[JavaDan]

I'll throw in my 2-cents ...

I own an OptioS4i. I love its' features, ease-of use, and compact size. However, I wasn't totally thrilled with the clarity/quality of the pictures. They are noisier than those of my 3 mpixel Olympus 3040. I now own a Panasonic Lumix FZ20 which I use for once-in-a-lifetime type shots. But for everyday use and portability, I think the Optio is the bomb. I will never get rid of it, but for serious photos - I'll use the Lumix.

Regards.