Which sub $500 camera to choose?

greenspun.com : LUSENET : Imaging Resource Discussion : One Thread

I am in the market for a digital camera, but I have one problem, I cannot spend more than $500 for the camera and accesseries (battery and charger). What should I buy? I have read and read but I can't make a choice. I have narrowed it to these: Fugi mx600z, Olympus 340r, and Cannon a50. The 600 is attractive because of the battery and charger come with it. What is your opinion? Are there others I should look at?

-- Duane Bargeron (barg@planters.net), July 16, 1999

Answers

It seems I'm in the same position as you are. I narrowed my choices to the Canon A50 and the Olympus d340r, and the upcoming Epson Photopc 650. I like the optical zoom of the A50, the price of the d340r($330) and the USB support of the upcoming Epson (mid August release) Does anyone know if the Epson has optical zoom, I've read that it will have interchangeable lenses. If so, I'll probably wait for it the price is supposed to be around $350.

-- Dan M (Qikslvr@Bellatlantic.net), July 17, 1999.

If you are considering an Olympus brand, then go with either the D-500L or the D-600L. These cameras have come down tremendously in price. Don't be afraid to buy a refurbished one either. Features wise, I chose the D-500L. A bit less in reslotion, but my monitor only displays 1024X768 so it fit just fine. Be sure to get a set of NiMH batteries too. Any of the cameras you mentioned eats AA's alkalines very rapidly. I use GP 1300ma NiMH and get about 500% more usage than regular alkalines. I bought a used D-500L on eBay.com for only $380. I have a D-300L and there is not comparison. The D-500 is the next thing to a 35mm SLR you'll find. Search the net for either and read the reviews yourself. They are without a doubt the best buy for the dollar. -robert

-- Robert Kidwell (oilerfan@nashville.com), July 18, 1999.

Hi Duane,

I bought a Fuji MX-600Z about a month ago and I love it. I haven't used many digicams so I can't say how my picture quality compares to the others you are looking at but I am very satisfied. You are right about the battery and charger setup, it is nice. By the way, when I bought mine Fuji had a promotional offer where you could get a free Flash Path Adapter. I think this offer is still on but I don't know for certain. Call 1-800-800-FUJI to find out for sure. And you might want to ask them to mail you a coupon because it won't come in the box if you buy one. When I bought mine BUY.COM had it priced at about $440.

Randy

-- Randy Weivoda (Rweivoda@compuserve.com), July 23, 1999.


Moderation questions? read the FAQ