Folks, went to my local BB on Monday night to look at some of the new digital cameras. As it turns out, I came home with a Panasonic Lumix ZS8 that was on sale. In fact, I got the bundle which included a 4GB memory card, an extra battery, and a camera bag. Not bad if you ask me. However, I got home and took a closer look. The reviews on BB website were very good. No, they were down right impressive! Looking at other sites, I discovered there has been some issues with the Leicia lens not closing and such. As a result, I decided to take it back today.
Somehow, I came home with another camera that was also on sale. Did not even know BB had a bundle on it too. In fact, the price was EXACTLY the same. But, this time I bought a 2-year insurance plan which eases my fears some. Basically, I decided to go with a Canon Power Shot ELPH 300HS. All the reviews I could find were very favorable. There were a few that mentioned problems with the lens not retracting and such. That is why I decided to get the protection plan that cost me another $40.00. The bundle price was $190.00 plus tax and an additional $40.00 dollars for the insurance. Did I make a good decision? Is the Canon ELPH 300 HS a better camera than the Panasonic Lumix ZS8? Both were exactly the same price bundle wise. Both came with a 4GB memory card, extra battery, and a carrying case/bag.
So, if any of you know anything about these two specific cameras or knows a lot about digital cameras in general please help me. I have a Canon A570IS which is a 7.1 MP that takes great shots. The problem is the darn AA batteries. Thus, the A570 IS is a bit bulky, heavy, and uses up batteries rather quickly. I wanted something smaller, no AA batteries, and not so bulky or heavy. That is how I ended up with the Canon ELPH 300HS. The Panny was also a bit bulky, but better than the Canon A570IS. Please offer me some advice as it would be most appreciated. Thanks for your time.
Cheers,
Phil
PS: I am aware that the Leicia lens is better than the lens in the Canon ELPH 300 HS camera. No real need to explain that to me, unless it is that much better. Please keep that in mind.