Canon Ixus 330 Digital Camera [2.0MP 3xOptical]

The problem I faced was that my Canon SLR's are not the easiest things to carry around. I wanted something compact, fun and easy to use - after A LOT of research/testing I went for the Canon Ixus 330.

I have had mine for a month and it is still fantastic! It is a solid, smart camera that has exceeded my expectations. I realise that there are cameras out there with greater pixel counts for less money etc. but I have to say that Canon cameras have never let me down.

If you can afford the extra then buy this camera! It is a beautiful product.

FYI - The camera comes with its own software (perfectly adequate but if you want something a little more pro then try Adobe Photoshop) but not with a carrying bag - the SHC-PS500 case is A MUST (it fits like a glove and has an extra little pouch for memory cards etc.).

The camera only comes with an 8meg card which is useless except for taking a couple of novelty pictures. I bought a 64 meg memory card for it and that stores about 127 top quality photos - low quality it will store hundreds and hundreds! I believe you can buy 256meg cards for this specific camera but I am not too sure.

The battery life is quite good but I have bought another battery for holidays etc.

I use a Epson Photo 890 printer to print out stuff at home - nice prints - most people can't tell the difference between them and a normal photo.

One great camera!

I have no regrets. The Camera is still compact although it is quite heavy. The build quality is excellent apart from the rubber covers for the connectors and the plastic battery cover. The Camera is quick to power up although the auto focus can be slow to complete for the first picture. Battery life seems fine however additional or replacement batteries are expensive.

The pictures so far have been excellent. The colours are bright and the resolution is sufficiant for my needs. The video clips lack definition and are limited to approx 10 seconds on medium resolution but are OK for fun use. The auto focus has been able to resolve a wide range of conditions both indoors and outdoors and works well with the flash.

The software is sufficiant although serious users will want to upgrade to more professional packages to provide full control of the image. Note; this will work with both Windows 98 first and second editions.

Overall a stylish, compact and easy to use Camera which provides excellent pictures. It is not the cheapest in its class but I belive it is worth the premium for its build quality, well thought out ergonomics and compact size.