Product Review #4: Canon Powershot SX200 IS

As an owner, having brought this camera to Italy, Spain and the Presidential Peaks, NH, I have had much field work with this camera.

The only problem I have ever had with this camera is a grain of sand getting into the lens gears and lens. This caused an annoying screeching noise, and the lens eventually fell off. However, it easily snapped on, and the noise ceased. For only a short time, I would have to remove the battery after use to prevent it from turning on at random intervals.

This problem, along with all the others, eventually fixed themselves, and the camera now works as it should.

Another unexpected "durability test" occurred while walking in the pouring rain through West Side Park in NYC. I stumbled across a heliport as a helicopter was preparing to take off. I decided to video tape this using its HD capabilities. After a longer then expected preparation, the helicopter took off into the sky just as my camera shut off due to the wind and rain mix after an extended time. Worried, I did not turn it on until the following day and it worked.

These problems were all caused by myself and were in no way the manufacture's fault.

With my experiences pushed aside, the positive aspects of this camera are a list bound to counteract the negatives. Here it goes!

This camera has proved, as shown above, its unexpected durability. Battery life is decent, and the rechargeable battery that is looked down upon by many proves to be useful and efficient.

Going from a previous 4X zoom Canon Camera to a 12X was quite a jump for me, especially learning that quality comes with the zoom and lens size, not megapixels.

However, the camera's HD video is actually a bad feature, for it is too clear and high quality to play on my Intel Atom Netbook, as well as other regular laptops I have tried it on. The video-out feature is great for this reason.

After looking for small-compact cameras and realizing quality is more important then size, I quickly chose this camera as my choice because of its compact body with a not so compact lens.

The flash has also taken some hits by reviewers, and I strongly disagree. Instead of clicking a button and re-enabling it when you need it, this camera allows you to simply manually shut it while you take the photo, and it automatically pops back up when you release your finger.

Speaking of flash, it has proved to not be needed for average nighttime shots. I have been inside without any problem, streets at night, and even Blaze (Pumpkin Festival) and have been able to shoot without a flash.

Overall, this camera has been the best I have ever had, and I think it will be hard to match! Good Job, Canon. I expect to remain a customer if and when you keep up the good work!

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