Pros: Ultra-Compact Size, 4 megapixels, 3x Optical Zoom, Mode Dial & FUNC button Cons: Weak flash, mediocre battery life, no provision for add on lenses or filters
The pace of digital camera evolution is almost dizzying, with new models introduced at a startling rate, each more capable than its predecessor. One of the most popular segments of this high-tech revolution is the ultra compact (or micro) digital ...
Pros: 4 MegaPixel, 3x Zoom, FUNC button, compact size, faster start up! Cons: Still a weak flash and somewhat poor/decent battery life.
The Canon PowerShot S230 isn't even out for six months and already there is a replacement for it... not that the S230 will be discontinued for a while especially with the sticker price of the S400 running a high $499! However, the nice thing is being...
Pros: resolution, tonal balance, 4 megapixels, 3X zoom, internal processing controls, excellent build quality Cons: underexposed flash shots, AF assist lamp does not produce better results, small mode dial
Here in the United States, Canon has offered a new camera for digital buffs. Depending on what part of the globe your in, the PowerShot 400 may have different names (US / Canada: Canon PowerShot S400 Digital Elph , Europe/SE Asia: Canon Digital IXUS...
Pros: great quality, good resolution, better than average red-eye Cons: small LCD, old CF memory, small resolution video, bad battery
I have owned Canon PowerShot S400 for 2 years, and used it extensively in my travels, parties, clubs, and even for portraits. I purchased S400 when it first appeared in the stores 2 years ago. I previously owned S200 which was quite a bad experienced and ...
Pros: great zoom feature, megapixels improved, compact Cons: battery life is not that great, night shots aren't an improvement
I have been looking around at the many new technological advances in things like cell phones, TV's, DVD players and cameras for some time now and have been very impressed. It seems like every ten years or so things will be created that we couldn't even...
I've owned this camera for just over a year now. How it has changed me! The Canon S400 has met most of my expectations and exceeded the rest. The camera is about the size of a pack of king-size cigarettes. Small enough to be inconspicuous and carry ...
This review will be rated over 5 things: 1. Build and Body Integrity 2. Controls 3. Performance 4. Interface 5. Value -Build and Body Integrity- The s400 Elph is built with sophistication and style. I was quite impressed with the feel and ...
Pros: Nice picture quality, easy to use, features, and compact size Cons: No case, 32 MB memory?!, battery, picture lag
This camera was a gift so I was a little surprised to say the least. I had been wanting a digital camera and had been doing research but I hadn't gotten to the point of buying one yet. I was really impressed with how easy it is to use. It can be a ...
Pros: size, power, functions, ease of use Cons: point and shoot only
The new Canon S400 Digital Elph is the best digital camera I have used so far. Now, this is not a professional camera so do not get confused with categories here my friends. This camera is a an everyday point and shoot camera which does everything it is...
Pros: Solid picture quality; handy size; unparalleled ease of use. Cons: Red eye is an issue when the camera automatically selects the flash mode.
The Canon S400 is wonderful for anyone looking for a snapshot camera. The picture resolution (4 megapixels) and photo quality give you excellent photographs. The 3X optical zoom gives you good range. The pictures I take and print with my S400 are ...
Pros: Small, good looking, easy to use, high image quality, solid construction, good battery life Cons: Small, overly complex menus, poor wide-angle, limited zoom
S400 Review: It took me several weeks of research before I finally purchased the S400. I had been looking for a higher mega-pixel replacement for my (excellent) Fuji MX-1700). My first stop was Fuji, since the quality of images produced by my ...
Pros: Awesome pictures, plenty of manual controls Cons: No uncompressed images, very unreliable, hot
I purchased the Canon Digital Elph PowerShot S400 in Seattle while traveling, in January 2004. The industrial design of the camera is dead sexy. You will be amazed how many features Canon have jammed into this tiny case. I am easily impressed by such ...
Pros: Great look. Ease of use. Good quality photos. Panoramic and video modes with sound. Cons: Price (sometimes), battery can run down quickly.
Look and feel: The camera is relatively small and is a suitable size and shape to hold. The silver and brushed metal look is very stylish and looks absolutely brilliant although is prone to finger marks (if that worries you). The LCD display in the back ...
Pros: Size, 4Mp, easy to use features, fast on time, fast shutter response Cons: None
UPDATE: I have now owned this camera for over a year and have taken roughly 7000 pictures with it. I still highly recommend this camera. Some of the comments made by other reviewer over failures when subjected to rapid temperature changes don't hold true ...
Pros: Small, fun, stylish, plenty of features and just awesome Cons: have trouble takeing the picture when i really want it.
This is my first big money purchase I have ever made. Its cost me $998 Australian dollars but I love it and I call it my baby. Ive had it since December and I took it on my cruise holiday around the pacific island and the photos turned out great! they ...
Pros: highly functional, easy to use, small, looks good Cons: inconvenient to recharge battery, small LCD screen, insufficient Compactflash card
I've used my 35mm camera for years. It always satisfied the need to capture those precious moments, especially since I'm not very trigger-happy when it comes to taking pictures. However, times change and I felt the occasion has arrived for me to step ...
Pros: Very small, quality finish, anti-glare screen, easy point-and-shoot auto mode, great low-light manual mode Cons: Weak flash, battery life
Now that I've had the Canon PowerShot S400 Digital Elph 4 Megapixel camera for over a year, I'll update my initial review (below). I chose the Canon S400 specifically for a cycling trip through Tuscany, Italy. I wanted a very small, high mega-pixel ...
Pros: Great pictures, features, easy and fun to use, small Cons: No battery indicator, batteries run out quicker with LCD on
Make no mistake, this is a powerful camera. It has an excellent number of features. It is so small that you can easily fit it into your pockets and take it with you everywhere. You do have to keep in mind that it is a "point and shoot", so don't ...
Pros: Zoom range, photo quality, extra features, compatibilty with Mac, size. Cons: Can't change zoom during movie mode, camera case sold separately.
Good Points: Very good quality images captured with this camera. Even on medium 1 resolution (1600 x 1200) and fine compression (giving approx 50 images per 32Mb Compact Flash Card) you can zoom in to see minute detail. The 3x optical zoom gives the ...
Pros: Small, 4 megapixels, sleek looking, no delay to snap a picture, idiot proof Cons: Videos are low resolution, battery life is okay, 32 MB card is inadequate
The S400 is my first digital camera, and only the second camera I have ever owned. I've had it for almost two weeks now. I choose it for: 1) Small size 2) Great pictures 3) Ease of use 4) Little to zero picture delay I was also considering the ...
Pros: Great design, compact size Cons: Ineffective warranty, not robust enough to live through normal use
I bought an S400 seven months ago and was very happy with it. Recently, however, it stopped working without warning. When I sent it in to the factory service center, I discovered something very troubling about the camera that had I known earlier would ...
Pros: Easy to use, great features, good quality Cons: Optional case is large
I have had the ixus 400 for some time now. The camera is very straight forward to use and very easy to take high quality pictures. Aesthetically the camera is very good, the sleek lines and the rounded edges make this and the ixus 500 look better ...
Pros: Small, light and good picture quality Cons: Warning (something you must never do with this camera)
Let me start off by saying the Canon S400 is a very good small camera. Picture quality is decent, however, many times it's a hit or miss affair. Many images tend to come out soft and sometimes downright blurry. The lack of focus could be due to the fact ...
Pros: 4.0 megapixels, Ease of use, detailed documentation, picture quality Cons: Must charge battery before first use, price is high, picky on off button
This review is one of my first. I've never owned a digital camera. I chose the S400 because I could, if I chose to, go down to the store and have some nice, high quality 8x10s printed, and the reviews here were good. When you open the box, one of the ...
Pros: Small, Fantastic Pictures, Bright LCD, Easy to use! Cons: Preliminary setup was a little tough, but very few cons!
We have the most photographed infant on earth, and we LOVE this camera. We take pictures mostly in our house, but we take a lot of shots outdoors also. The picture quality is outstanding and the camera is extremely easy to use. It is very convenient--f ...
Pros: Costco's add ons (extra batterie and leather case); UNCONDITIONAL MONEY BACK GUARANTEE WITHOUT TIME CONSTRAINT Cons: None yet.
I bought this camera for my wife's birthday last month. I went to several outlets looking for a deal after deciding this was the model I wanted. What I found out is that Canon closely regulates the price it allows dealer's to charge (much like Weber BBQ ...
Pros: COMPACT, EASY TO USE, EXCELLENT PICTURES Cons: Flash a little too bright sometimes, small buttons, excessive lag with taking photo!
This camera has been reviewed thoroughly by other members who know a lot more about cameras than me (which isn't saying a whole lot). This is my second digital camera. The first was a polaroid model that came out really early so for me, it's like ...
Pros: Compact, rugged, high-quality images Cons: No RAW mode
I've spent three years reading about digital camera and waiting to make the switch from film. I finally settled on the Powershot S400 (known as the IXY 400 in Japan) as my point and shoot camera.
I shoot mostly film but I like this little digital camera. It does everything a point and shoot digital camera should do and more. For me, a point and shoot camera should be small and light so that it can conveniently go with me everywhere. That's the ...
Pros: Size, Durability, Color replication is superb for price, few relics, MPEG movies great, 3x optical Cons: Overpriced, poor flash, some flatness in pictures, uncomfortable at times to hold while shooting
Basically, I'm simply going to list what other people on here need 17 paragraphs to write out: Ni ...
Pros: Compact and small, perfect to carry around in a pocket, great pictures, Cons: Slow autofocus (a little noisy too), a bit pricey, so-so battery life
The first thing that attracted me was the compact design and the 4.0 megapixel feature. Although it ...
Pros: small and lightweight
takes good pictures in right conditions Cons: very poor reliability
horrible customer service
unreliable autofocus
high price
Recently I was looking for a camera to take travelling. In the past I have used a large 35mm camera ...
Pros: Small and easy to carry. Durable, and it makes anyone a good photographer. Cons: It is expensive. The video could be 640 instead of 320.
I am not a professional photographer but I have people ask me if I am and then tell me I should be when they see the photos I have taken with this camera. I read the reviews on this and the S45 and debated whether to go for more manual settings or ...
Pros: excellent quality, small, easy to use, light. Cons: red eye protection is only fair, no date/time stamp option
The S400 is a great camera and since they came out with the S410 it's priced right too. I got mine for 318 on amazon. I love this camera and so did CU in this month's review. Great reviews, 4MP and the small size (1x2x3) were my top reasons for buying, ...
Pros: When working, great, clear, bright, colorful pics, easy to use, compactness Cons: Canon's lack of customer support for mass/common product errors.
DO NOT BUY THIS CAMERA for your own peace of mind. A great camera when it works, great pics, easy to use, just wonderful, BUT there is a HIGH probability it will fail and Canon shows no respect for its consumers and they ignore problems with its products ...
Pros: Small, rugged, 4.0 MP, Intuitive Cons: Shutter delay waaaaaaay too long
This is my first digital camera, so I can't really compare this to other digital cameras, but from a film camera perspective. I've been hesitant to buy a digital for various reasons, but I'm very happy with the Canon. I see a lot of people have issues ...
Pros: compact, easy to use, good picture Cons: Terrible durability, quality and customer service
I purchased a Canon S400 camera for roughly $500 a little over a year ago. The camera recently stopped working for no apparent reason due to an E18 error (lens focus mechanism). The camera was not mis-handled. The warranty is 1 year. The service center ...
Pros: Compact go anywhere. Great Canon features and performance. Cons: Hard to hold steady. Small size has its trade-offs in terms of lens.
I always feel like this is a spy camera! Sounds corny but it really is the stuff of James Bond and Dick Tracy of old. Who would dream we would have a full blown camera that can rival my old SLR in many situations yet it fits in my shirt pocket. Its great ...
Pros: Weight and looks
Picture Quality
Canon is the best Cons: Needs a battery meter! You have to guess about the battery life
This review would be a repeat of the others already posted. This is the ultimate Digital ELPH I've owned to this date! I've had the Digital Elph S100, S110 and the S30. Also owned a Sony P30 and a variety of Kodaks. The camera is simple to use and ...
Pros: Great camera while it was working. Really love the size of the camera. Cons: Complete failure of the camera after 2 years of use.
Camera worked great for about 2 years and then I get "Memory card error". I thought that it was the memory card so I replaced it with another one. Same problem occurred with this card. I tried resetting the camera and reformatting the original card to no ...
Pros: Good quality, vivid colors, clarity, long battery life. Cons: Flash distance, red-eye reduction (not too bad).
I purchased this camera one year ago, and I've taken over 1000 pictures with it. I've owned three other cameras by different manufacturers, including a 5 megapixel camera. Each had its positive points, but they also had a variety of negative points. This camera has been the best overall in terms of quality pictures, vivid colors, clarity, long battery life, and ease of use. There are a couple of downsides: flash distance could be better (but it's a compact camera with a compact flash) and red-eye reduction could be better (although the red-eye problem is not extreme). I took both the 5 megapixel camera (by another manufacturer) and the Canon S400 on an excursion one day and took over 40 pictures with both cameras of the same scenes. The Canon performed better 99% of the time. I highly recommend the Canon S400 to anyone who wants a good camera in this price range.
I thought the S100 would to improve upon! by mstrawn ,Nov 08 '04
Pros: Small size, very functional, very durable. Cons: Haven't found any yet.
I dropped my S100 on three continents and never had a problem with it. I didn't think that it could be improved upon but I was wrong. The Canon S400 is a powerhouse of a camera in a small, fairly indestructible package. I tend to buy products and start using them before I read the manual. Within minutes I was taking pictures and shooting short movies. The camera is so loaded with features I may never find them all. Every once in a while when I am bored sitting in a airport I pull out the manual (or open the PDF on my laptop)that it has features that I hadn't used yet. I travel constantly and use it for work which sometimes requires close up pictures which the S400 handles without any problems.
Pros: size Cons: red eye no battery meter and the lens gears are faulty
ok heres the scoop. after two years of owning this camera the lense wont come out, its an "E18" error message. it seems now that i whave checked into this it is some sort of gear which is in the lens and is a problem with all of the powershot cameras, i called canon service and they want to charge me 150 dollars to fix it. what a scam. its a problem with the camera so dont buy one.
Great Camera There May Be Quality Issues by dmantelli ,Feb 14 '06
Pros: Small, takes great pictures, easy to use. Cons: Quality Issues
I really enjoyed this camera and found that it took great pictures and was perfect for travel because I could easily slip it into my pocket. My camera is almost in pristine condition and has been treated very well. However, after a couple of years I started getting the dreaded memory error and then just the other day the CCD failed, so now the camera is totally useless. If you do a search on Google you will find a lot of complaints about the memory error. I tried all the suggestions, resetting, formating, and the battery trick, but these suggestions did not work for me.
When the CCD went out, well that was the end the camera is now a paperweight. You can still buy this camera at some stores. My advice is to avoid this model and buy a newer Canon model.
Good solid camera, built like a brick by derk99 ,Jun 27 '04
Pros: Picture quality, ease of use Cons: Price
This is my fourth digital camera. The s400 has been flawless so far. It is build like my Ipod... very solid and easy to use.
The flash is not the most powerful on the planet but it works. At a recent wedding I took 88 flash photos before the battery crapped out.
The deal is, however, the camera uses a proprietary battery and charger, so don't think of popping in the AA's you get from WalMart and having 40 more shots. You simply don't have a choice.
This cam uses compact flash drives, which are becoming cheaper and easier to find on price. Picture quality is great...fine as most 4 MP cams are.
I paid $350 via Amazon.com, which has a lot of cameras and discounts available. Look for coupons.
Great first digital camera by ambernop ,Dec 09 '04
Pros: Easy to take pictures and transfer them to your computer; long battery life Cons: None
We've had our Canon PowerShot S400 for over a year now. It's our first digital camera. Since I'm not very camera savvy, I wanted something simple to use. The PowerShot is perfect, in my opinion. It's just point and click, unless you want to get more technical, which it allows you to do.
It also has a short video option, with sound. To be honest, we don't use that feature very often. But it's nice to know it's available, if the need arose.
The camera doesn't plug into a base, like some do. To charge the battery, you remove it from the camera, put it in a charger, and plug it in the wall. It charges quickly, and a green light comes on to let you know it's fully charged. To transfer pictures, you plug the camera into a USB port on your computer. Of course, you can always take the memory card out and plug it directly into a printer (like at CVS).
Overall, we've really enjoyed our PowerShot - it's easy to use, and the pictures have turned out great.
Pros: Size and shape, picture quality, ease of use. Cons: None.
I've had my S400 for just over a year now and have to say it is one great little camera.
My purchasing criteria when shopping for a digital camera was: resolution, size and shape, features, ease of use. When I looked at all 4-5 megapixel cameras on the market, the S400 won out given it's sleek streamlined shape and and compact size. This camera can do everything I have needed from still photo's to panoramic, to video. I use it mainly for outdoor activities (skiing, hiking, camping etc.) so really needed something that would fit easily in a pack or pocket. Given I use it outdoors, it has taken a few bumps to say the least and I don't "baby" it.
The picture quality is great, and I have found the camera easy to use and intuitive in both automatic and manual mode.
All in all, it is a great little camera.
Terrible camera - Memory Card Error after 18 months by woodk6 ,Aug 06 '05
Pros: Good while it worked Cons: Failed after 18 months. Terrible Warranty.
I'm so disappointed with this camera. I've done some internet research and apparently Canon has this problem with other digital camera models as well. Some people think that if you switch the brand of memory card that this will work but in fact it does not. I've been through 3 brands and the only one that works is the Canon 16MB card that came with the camera!!!! Useless. Canon will not help you unless you want to pay about $150 to send them your camera. DO NOT BUY!!!!!
Very happy with this and with Canon customer service by jbsteinb ,Apr 16 '04
Pros: Feels great in your hand, easy to use, great pics. Cons: Shutter delay, small view screen.
I wanted a reliable point-and-shoot that would take good pictures, and be easy to carry. Didn't see a need for the printing capabilities of the S410. I'm happy with almost everything about this camera, and assuming it's as reliable as other Canon products expect to get quite a lot of use. Very easy to learn controls, icons, transfer to computer (Macintosh). My only real complaints are that the view screen is small (1.5") and the shutter delay is (on occasion) slow enough to miss a shot. I had a few questions about operation, and Canon on-line service was immediate and helpful.
Pros: Like auto focus with the green squares, lets you know where your focus is concentrated. Cons: The flash is weaker than last Camera, but for a compact, does just fine.
This is a replacement camera for my broken Olympus. Compact,light and super Maco. Easy to change the Flash mode.
Pros: None Cons: Biggest waste of hard earned money.
Mine has the infamous "Memory Card Error". Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. Why would you want to take the gamble? Even worse than a non-function camera......is non-functional Canon Customer Service. They basically accused me of damaging the camera, and offered to "fix" it for about half of what I paid for it. This camera model has flaws that are inherent to the design. Please read for yourself and spend your money elsewhere: http://www.stevesforums.com/forums/view_topic.php?id=38477&forum_id=15&page=1
There are SEVERAL attorneys working on organizing class actions lawsuits against Canon due to their infamous "errors" that they won't admit exist. I encourage you to join the class actions if you currently own this camera, and not to bother with Canon if you don't.
If your Canon works great, congratulations...if a problem does pop up, they will leave you out in the cold.
Best point-n-shoot camera by jefflundberg ,Sep 25 '03
Pros: 4 megapixels/3x zoom, great image quality & control, macro modes, small size, compact flash (cheap) Cons: cons? the lack of battery level info and no power adapter (comes with separate charger)
I've always been one to get the best possible product at the cheapest possible price. The Canon PowerShot S400 was by far the best product in it's category. It's small, takes great pictures, and the price is right (I recommend BeachCamera.com) at under $400.
After using it for a month or so, I've only been more impressed by it's control over every aspect of a photo. The processor is quite fast (for a non-professional camera) so taking multiple pictures in a row is actually possible. It also starts up quicker than all the other cameras I looked at which is nice (catch those action shots).
Some people have complained about the battery. I've never actually run out, and replacement batteries are cheap (Best Buy, Circuit City, etc.), so even if you need an extra, it's not going to break the bank.
analysis of Canon PowerShot S400 Digital Camera by hgvf ,Dec 26 '04
Pros: The lightweight,compact,and versatile design of this camera makes this camera an excellent choice. Cons: Price is a little too high and its memory card is a little big.
This digital camera is one of the lightest and most versatile cameras on the market today. It features a 3x Optical Zoom, stainless steel body, 1.5 inch LCD screen and a 4.1 megapixel resolution.
I bought this product because of its lightweight, compact design, and its versatility. This camera helped me to capture crisp and clear photos at night. It also has a strong 3X zoom that helped me to capture far things up close. My overall opinion about this camera is that it is one of the best cameras that I bought.
Memory Card Error - after warranty expires by pandora23 ,Jun 23 '05
Pros: small Cons: unreliable, memory card error, many lost images.
Please, for your own good, do a search on 'memory card error' before buying this camera. This has nothing to do with the memory card being re-formated or being replaced. This is a problem with the camera and a problem that Canon will not fix for under $300. With this error also comes the E50 error and the camera then just shuts down. Do not buy this camera. We are very disappointed with it. We loved it until this happened then did a search on the internet and found out it's a very common problem that Canon will not take responsibility for. There is even a possible class action suit against Canon regarding this problem. Phone Jim Smith (at no cost to you, regarding this error) at 1-877-677-9489. It works off and on now if I use an external card reader to read the images onto my computer and constantly reformat the card when it is in the camera. I lose a lot of photo's though and constantly download and never know when the error will start back up. Very unreliable and frustrating as we have an infant and lose many photos.
Portable with better zoom by danhousman ,Nov 19 '04
Pros: It's a portable, reliable, durable camera with good photo quality. Cons: It doesn't have enough zoom and Canon added useless buttons for printing.
I have used the Powershot series for some time starting with the S100. I think the S400 is a good product with some strong features worth using. The best factor for me is that it has a lot of power but still can be carried all of the time in my pocket. The battery life seemed to be a big problem in earlier models of the Powershot but it is much better in the S400. Increased zoom over the S100 makes a big difference but it still doesn't have enough zoom to get close to many key shots.
The new print functions/button that they added doesn't appear to be very useful and cater to specialty users and seem added more to sell digital photo printers than to make the camera better. They don't get in the way but I don't think most people who use the camera will ever use them.
Canon PowerShot S400 / IXUS 400 - great little digital camera --- BUT sadly by chookybo ,May 13 '06
Pros: Takes clear crisp photos.
Compact and light.
Handy. Cons: Shutter speed lag.
Packed up after just over two and a half years.
This is a great little digital camera. I took it to Africa on a Walking Safari. It was convenient strapped to my belt and I managed to get great pictures using it. I also had a Nikon D100 which I used for wildlife photography. I find the quality of both camera photos equal for 7X5" photos.
I have been very happy with this camera. It feels good in my hands and I find the functions work well.
It has been very handy to be able to take a small camera with me just about anywhere I go.
Sadly, this camera is no longer functional. After two and a bit years it suddenly ceased to work. I would have thought that Canon could have made something which would have lasted longer. Update: I have just read several other reviews on this camera which weren't there when I purchased the camera. They all have the same "memory card error" problem which stopped my camera functioning.
Amazing. Better than I thought. by luporini11 ,Jun 09 '04
Pros: Durable body, incredible photo quality, size and weight. Cons: Battery life and flash still needs improvement.
This camera is simply the best in its class. If you want a camera that has incredible photo quality, small so you can take anywhere this is the one. I previously had a Sony (DSCP-92 in which I unfortunately lost, 4.0 MP as well) and it doesn't even compare to this Canon S400, the pictures come out a lot clearer and way, way less blurry pictures, as my Sony took many, many blurry pictures. Canon's battery also lasts a little longer but still should be improved. The flash is also not its best, but it does well for its size. I definitely recommend this camera if you would like to have a camera to take anywhere, and just take pictures randomly and get amazing photo quality.
Amazing Point-and-Shoot Camera by tubob_shakur ,Jan 05 '04
Pros: Small, lightweight, excellent photos, inexpensive underwater housing available, great features Cons: marginal battery life, occasional red-eye problems, no camera case
We bought our S400 in October 2003, and we absolutely love it. It's very small and convenient to carry around, which is the primary reason that we bought it. For a camera of its size, it's packed with features and it takes phenomenal photographs.
Also, we bought the underwater housing, and we just used the camera underwater during several scuba dives in Hawaii. Although I have very limited experience with underwater photography, for a point-and-shoot camera, we were very happy with the photos. Also, it's great and convenient to be able to see the photos while you're still underwater (i.e., so that you know whether your photo was decent, or whether you'll need to snap another shot). The underwater housing was well worth the money.
I do agree with those who have observed that (1) the battery doesn't have a very long life, and (2) the "anti-red-eye" lamp doesn't always work very well. Also, as were some other people, I was disappointed that Canon didn't throw in a camera case. But overall, we are very, very happy with this camera.
Beautifully made, tiny camera! by d_s_weld ,Jul 17 '04
Pros: Ultra-small, truly excellent UI, great pictures Cons: Exposure compensation (i.e. backlight control) poor. Can't correctly control flash output.
I used this camera for a year, following a year+ with it's excellent predecessor the s200. It's a great camera and so compact that you really -can- COMFORTABLY carry it with you in your shirt pocket. This is the key to actually having the camera when you want to use it. I'm sure the S500 is just as nice, with higher resolution.
Never-the-less, when my s400 got stolen two months ago, I bought a Canon A80 instead; it's a bit larger but offers true manual controls (aperture + shutter speed independently adjustable) and flash output control so you can take a portrait of someone with a sunset (say) behind them and expose both the sunset and the face correctly).
Summary - if you don't mind or don't understand the CONs listed below, you'll love this camera; it's perfect except for those small details.
Pros: Quality & Software Cons: Haven't found any yet
For the non-professional, this is the perfect digital camera. I have used it at home and hiking in rugged terrain, it performs its job, and does it well.
Canon produces two 4.0 megapixel cameras. This is the smaller of the two. It fits nicely into an aftermarket case and is unobtrusive.
The menu system is easy to use and the LCD screen is clear and sharp. The Canon supplied software is a very decent product for downloading and rough editing (crop, red-eye, brightness and sharpness).
Best compact camera I tested by jimbolaiya ,Jan 27 '04
Pros: Small compact size. high resolution good to 16x20 prints.
video with sound Cons: only med/low quality video, weak flash. no flash settings. long waits between shots with flash
I worked at circuit city and am very knowledgeable of electronics. I've tested many cameras at the store in side by side comparisons and the canon's were always a tad sharper and a tad better color.
Bought it about a year ago and have had minor issues with it until a few weeks ago when the battery died while it was still on. The lens stuck in open and Canon want to charge 160 to fix this problem. The camera was never dropped or mistreated & checking further on the web it seems to be a known issue they are not owning up to.
Pros: Great pics, easy to use, small Cons: short battery life
This is the second digital camera I have owned and it blows my last one away. The picture are fantastic and it is easy to use. My wife and son need plug n'play ease and this thing has it. I bought one for my business partner for X-Mas and all his wife talks about is our "fantastic gift". The only problem I have noted is a short battery life.
Perfect Overall Multi-Use Camera by hehmin ,Jan 13 '05
Pros: Compact. Decent quality pictures. Cons: Screen isn't as big as some others. Bit heavier than I would've liked.
This camera is great. I read the reviews and thought it would be a good multipurpose camera. The reviews were right. I'm glad I did the research! Pictures are more than decent and a great price. Highly recommended.
Pros: Size, image quality, features,optical zoom,Direct view to TV via phono plugs. Cons: Haven't found any.
How did they fit so many features into this little body, just slightly larger than a packet of cigarettes, this little beauty has everything that an SLR has except changeable lenses (not that you'd ever need them). It will even take short 3 minute movies with sound and output them to your tv or VCR!
Features include: Stitch two images side by side, 4 levels of picture size from 640x 480 to 2272x1704 pixels. Still auto, still manual, stitch and movie modes.Uses CF cards for storage up to 256 Mb which means up to 2720 640 x480 photos or 123 2272x1704 photos in memory.Small LCD screen with brightness control is clear even in sunlight, has an optical viewfinder so the LCD does not need to be switched on, doubling your battery life to about 440 images. Weighs 185g so about the same weight as your mobile phone. Autofocus, exposure compensation, white balance (7 modes) setting, 3 light metering modes, ISO modes, zoom from 36mm to 108mm (35mm equivalent). Has it all!
Pros: Great pics Cons: May not always take good pics at night
If you are looking for a camera that is:
Cheap, Durable, Takes good pics, is for everyday use, will not be used much at night, is high quality and is small in size, you will not go wrong with this camera. It takes amazing pictures.
Pros: good pictures, when it worked. Also, the size is nice. Cons: the life of the camera is only about two years long.
The camera has a malfunction called "memory card error" (google it) that only allows the camera to work for about a year and a half. I purchased this camera a while ago and it no longer works.
Great Camera, Awful durability. by oliverjak ,Aug 30 '05
Pros: Image quality, usability, beautiful design. Cons: Consistent problems with lenses (E18 Error)--A dangerous buy. Canon support is miserable.
The camera performance and picture quality are fantastic, but it has a horribly unreliable lens motor mechanism. I have lost my second Canon Powershot camera in 2 years to the infamous/mysterious E18 error (Google "Canon e18 error" to see for yourself). Canon is pretending the problem doesn't exist even though it has received thousands of complaints.
The BEST ELPH by far G3 Quality by whalercat ,Dec 27 '03
Pros: 4MP,Very High Quality Pictures,Fast,Small,Light,Cool Style,TV out Cons: Maybe Battery, but 2nd battery is $12.00 shipped on Ebay
I took pictures from this camera and compared to my friends G3. I was amazed and he was upset. In all outdoor shots the elph was neck in neck on side by side comparisons. I'd say there were a few more details in the G3, but very very difficult to tell the difference even magnified later. The G3 did take superior indoor shots, and this is due to the elphs limited flash. The G3 flash would light an entire room, and elph seems to have a weaker red eye reduction and overall flash. This is a small sacrifice for me and canon can only put so much into a small case. Even though I'm being critical of the flash it is still far better than my much bigger Olympus D510 and I would estimate the flash range at about 12 feet. I would highly recommend this camera to anyone.
If you buy a Canon digital camera, you are very likely to receive a devastating error that will make your camera worthless just after warranty expires. It is the dreaded E18 error. I bought a canon s400 just over a year ago, price $500, and now it is broke. Canon wants absurd money to fix it. This problem is very common. Dont believe me, do a google search.
Canon has a faulty design in many of its digital cameras and now they are capitalizing by overcharging repairs.
I highly recommend staying away from any Canon digital camera!
Pros: size, easy to use, quality Cons: no big ones - doesn't come with carrying case
Easy to learn - my first digital camera and I love it. Just got back from Sam's Club - they will print dig. pics for $.20 each - simply take your memory card into them. They quality of the pics - indoor and outdoor excellent - no "red eyes." The software that comes with the camera is very convenient and easy to use. Immediately was able to upload pics and send pics in e-mails - very intuitive in how it all works.
Doesn't come with a carrying case - but I bought one at Best Buy (not Canon) that fits camera perfectly for $10.00.
I like this camera, BUT by chocoholic2 ,Sep 25 '04
Pros: size, shape, wight, picture quality for close subjects Cons: zoom is too small
the zoom is so poor that all subjects must be close. So, sadly, I am going to have to get a different camera, since I use it for shooting pix of my kids at sporting events, and I need to be able to take pix from further away than it will allow. I should say that I love the compact size and how it feels when I hold it.
Tight body, packed with goodness by worldwidewoo ,Oct 09 '03
Pros: Fast easy. Good image, solid performer. Cheap compact flash. Design excellent. High fun value. Cons: Weight is heavy. Battery life could be better. Low light Image quality could be improved.
This camera follows the heritage of the Canon -S- series. That is to say, there is a lot of good things in this small package. First time users will be amazed and impressed by its ease of use and overall capabilities. It is a superior point and shoot camera with extras you can appreciate or ignore. It is not perfect, but most digital cameras aren't. Learning to live with the S400's limitations are not hard or burdensome. The pro's of this camera far out way the cons. Although it has a lot of manual controls, remember this is basically a muscled out point and shooter, people should remember that when comparing it to other digital cameras.
Pros: excellent picture quality lots of optionds for size and clarity Cons: it's a bit on the expensive side but well worth it
I purchased this last week. i thought the digital camera i had before was great this ones even better. The pics come out so clear and sharp. My other camera i could take pics and then print them out on my home computer but they always came out a little bit blurry.. not this one though if you love to take pics this is camera for you..sure it's a little pricy but when it comes to cameras you get what you pay for...this one is well worth the extra money and it's really easy to use...a must have
Pros: lightweight, super portable, pocket sized, compact flash cards are very easy to find Cons: battery type, screen is a bit small.
This camera and I have flown over 50,000 miles in the last 10 months with only one small problem. I bashed it against a bottle of wine on a flight to London, but the screen was under warranty and had a new one super fast from Canon.
Picture quality is phenomenal. This is a great camera to grow into over the course of two - three years. Highly recommend to the newbies to digital cameras. This is my third and by far my favorite.
One word of advice, get an extra battery. After a particularly long day of shooting (over 200 pics) I was really glad I had a spare when mine gave out.
Digital camera's are great. by nykky20 ,Aug 13 '04
Pros: everyone should have this camera, they can use it for all sorts of things. Cons: everyone likes to sell you one.
I bought this camera because i have a 4 month old baby girl, and we take digital pictures of her all the time, it has good quality, and if u don't like the fist picture u can delete it you don't have to have that one. i love this camera i take it with me everywhere i go. i don't hate anything about this one either.
I have now owned a Canon Powershot S330, an S230 and the new S400 digital Elph. The S400 combines great features of the S330 with a 4 megapixel CCD. In my experience, I think the S400 (so far) is the best of the three. Though it doesn't have the 640x480 movie clip option that the S230 has, the movie quality on the 320x240 clips is very good and the 3 minute movie capability is nice. I believe the S400's movie mode does a better job in low light than either the S330 or the S230. I think the flash is a little stronger than on the S230. If anyone is trying to choose between the above models, I would say the S400 is definitely worth the extra money.
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