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Looking much like the popular Powershot A70, at least from the front, the new A80 increases the CCD's pixel count to four million. However, an increase in pixels is not the only improvement. Canon has also included a new flip-and-twist LCD monitor to make shooting from unusual angles much easier; this also has the benefit of protecting the LCD screen when not in use. Those who enjoy marvelling at extra-large LCDs will be disappointed as the Powershot A80 only manages to squeeze in a 1.5in model. Compare it to some of the larger 2in displays and you'll see the difference, but thatås not to say it's bad quality.
While the A80 looks a bit cumbersome when placed next to the likes of Casio's EX-Z4, of the compacts on the market it's the most comfortable to hold. The extended right-hand grip along with well-placed shutter and zoom controls allow for steady and precise photography.
Just as with the Powershot A70, adventurous photographers are given free rein when it comes to aperture and shutter settings. Full auto settings are also included so as not to alienate those new to digital photography.
The Powershot A80 did extremely well in our tests. The skin tone and texture shot displayed a good level of detail, although chromatic aberrations were visible on the tinsel, along with some flaring. In the resolution and macro tests the Canon managed to finish mid-table, but the 3x zoom lens might not be powerful enough for everyone. Overall, though, it performed surprisingly well.
With so many manual features, a 4megapixel CCD and a good-quality lens, the A80 excels in many areas. Of course, it can't achieve the same level of detail as the Nikon, but considering it's £250 cheaper it returns an impressive performance.
Contact: Canon 0870 514 3723
www.canon.co.uk
See also:
A moderately priced four-megapixel digital camera that's perfect for beginners 05 Nov 2004
All Digital Cameras
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