New camera semi-beginner

[Aaron07]

Hey guys, help me out here

I am a 17 year-old student who wants a compact camera. I have narrowed down my choices between the Canon A510 and the Nikon Coolpix 4600. I take mostly landscape pics and I really dont blow up my pic much past 5x7. The Canon is bigger but has a 4x optical and 3mp. The Nikon is very small and has 4mp but only a 3x optical. what do you guys think i should get?

[PhilR.]

Both cameras are quite capable, and the slight differences in specs are IMO insignificant. What is significant however is the presence or lack of manual exposure controls. If you think that one day you would like to learn how to manipulate exposure, then get the Canon. Otherwise, just get the cheaper of the two and put the extra money into a larger memory card.

Since you take landscapes, you might consider something with a wide-angle lens. Take a look at the Fuji E500 and 510. The E500 has both a wide-angle zoom and manual exposure controls, and can be purchased for less than $200.

PhilR.

[AlkaPhunk]

You'd rather look for 4200, 5200 or 5900 in Nikon coolpix series.
The x600 serie is cheaper but is really under quality. (smaller ccd, not fast in action...)
Check out the price difference before making your decision.

[Aaron07]

Thanks for the responses. I will check out the ones listed. I am not into the manual controls as of now and I assume that when I am, it would be time for a new camera. The prices are the exact same, the screen size is the same. I just dont know if 1x more optical is worth the 1less megapixel and bigger size camera.

Thanks,
Aaron

[Warin]

The Nikon has better red eye reduction when using the flash. The Canon has manual mode. The Nikon has better macro (closeup) mode. The Canon has better zoom.

I prefer the 4600, but they are both capable cameras. I agree with the "pick the chearper and get a bigger card" sentiment. You cant go wrong with either one.