Canon SD500 vs. Canon S500

[sdi]

I am researching to buy my first digital camera. I have narrowed down my choices but am having trouble making the final decision. I would appreciate any suggestions!

My first priority would be the same as most others. I find that I tend to like crisp pictures with vivid colors. My second priority would be related to shutter lag. The vast majority of my pics are of my three small children. As many of you can relate, they are in a constant state of motion. My friend's camera has such a noticeable shutter lag that I always seem to "just miss" the funny expression.

I like the larger LCD's (will sacrifice if necessary)
Fine with 3X zoom
No need for full manual controls, but I would like some preset scene modes at least.
Video would be fun, but not at the expense of the quality of stills.
No huge preference for battery type or memory card.

I have been considering the following cameras:

Canon SD400/SD 500
Canon S410/S500
Canon A95
Sony W5

I saw the Canon SD500 yesterday at Best Buy....I think I'm in love. But, I didn't necessarily want to spend that much money. On the other hand, I would be fine with that if it was a great choice. I don't mind cameras that have more weight to them, and actually preferred them, that is, until I got the SD500 in my hands.

How do the S500 and the SD500 differ in terms of picture quality and speed?

I'd appreciate any suggestions. So many people's posts have helped me even get to this point. Thanks!

[MrForgetable]

personally, i don't think it's worth it over the current S series. especially since it is a good 200-250 dollars more expensive than the S500.

But it is a lot faster and a little bit smaller. Nice choice if you don't mind spending that much. If I wanted a 7 megapixel consumer I'd probably opt for the Sony P200 as it is cheaper, probably as fast, though the colors will be a little more unnatural (not bad, mostly personal preference) than the Canon's.

[ProblemSolver]

Originally Posted by sdi

How do the S500 and the SD500 differ in terms of picture quality and speed?

I think you should be comparing the S500 with the SD400. Anyway, the SD500 is waaaay better than the S500. The SD500 has 7 MP, the S500 only 5 MP. The SD500 has the DIGIC II processor, making it lots faster than the S500. The SD500 also has the My Colors & color swap feature, more battery life, larger LCD, scene modes, night display and a whole lot of other stuff that the S500 doesn't have. I think the SD500 is a great choice.

P.S. You should also compare the S500 with the SD400 (They both have 5 MP)