What are the pros and cons associated with the Canon PowerShot A510 and A95 units? The A510 is a natural evolution of the PowerShot A75. Smaller and lighter in weight than its predecessor, the A510 has a four times optical zoom lens and delivers three point two megapixel resolution for far better image clarity. You can see precisely what you're shooting vis-á-vis the camera's 1.8 inch LCD monitor as well. With better ergonomics, digital one image processing, and a complete warranty, the A510 is a great deal. Of course, the standard SD storage card may not be enough to hold all of your pictures, so it's probably a good idea to invest in a 64 MB or 256 MB card to go with your unit. The A510 is powered by two AA batteries, but you may investigate getting rechargeable nickel metal hydride (NiMH) batteries for increased security. The A95 PowerShot, which retails for around $400, is a step above its predecessor, the Canon PowerShot A80. You get a five megapixel CCD, a rotating LCD display, a superior series of modes, a print / share button, and much more. As with the Canon PowerShot A510, the A95 comes with a less than optimal storage card--it only holds 32 MB. Upgrade to a 256 MB as soon as possible. Accouterments include a wrist guard, an A / V cable, and an instructive CD ROM and printed manual. For a little extra, you can equip your A95 with a housing to take exciting underwater pictures. The heavy heft of the A95 is considered by some to be an inconvenience, but others like the full-bodied professional feel of the camera. Altogether, both of these Canon PowerShots are stable, rugged, well warrantied, and popular. |