Simple P&S (backup camera)

[Pleiaden]

Budget

Around $200

Size

Compact. Size is not really important.

Features

6MP

* What optical zoom will you need?
standard

* How important is “image quality” to you? (Rate using a scale of 1-10)
9

Do you care for manual controls?
not important

General Usage

* What will you generally use the camera for?
everyday shooting, backup for F80: indoor (people) and outdoor (landscapes, buildings)

* Will you be making big prints of your photos or not?
no
Will you be shooting a lot of indoor photos or low light photos?
yes

Will you be shooting sports and/or action photos?
no

Miscellaneous

Are there particular brands you like or hate?
no

Are there particular models you already have in mind?
Maybe a Canon A540, W50 or some of the Panasonics

(If applicable) Do you need any of the following special features? (Wide Angle, Image Stabilization, Weatherproof, Hotshoe, Rotating LCD)
No

[MatthewCollin]

ultracompact: Canon SD600/Sony DSC-W50

*EDIT: I'd take the Canon over the Sony, but they're both fine cameras. The Sony may not do well with low light, Only a 2sec max exposure, and you can't adjust ISO on the 2 sec exp. which is a shame because it looks to be fairly low noise through ISO 400 or even 800*

compact: Powershot A540...maybe even A630. Kodak EasyShare C875

[Pleiaden]

I went to a couple of stores this morning and I do not like the feel of the Sonys. I did enjoy the A540 and the Panasonic LZ5. Since I like to shoot indoors as well, I guess the Panasonics might not be a good choice.
So, now I'm considering the A540, maybe the Fuji F30. I also liked how the Kodak C875 felt. I was wondering if I would notice a considerable difference in image quality between these.

[flippedgazelle]

I like my Kodak C875 quite a bit. It's pocketable, has eye-popping color (which can be tuned down via a menu setting if you find it too vibrant) and fairly responsive. ISO 800 isn't great, but somewhat usable. The flash is a little weak, but not harsh. Has PASM and also plenty o' scene modes. Overall, it's a good deal if you can get it for under $200. I got mine with a 512mb SD card for $126 after $50 rebate.

[bascom]

"I got mine with a 512mb SD card for $126 after $50 rebate."

Where did you get that deal?