Canon PowerShot A720 IS Review Analysis | All Features Rated & Tested

image quality

5

Image stabilization did not seem to work
the 2th is for picture
image stabilization (see comments)
Image quality not sharp and clear
but already ordered a higher quality charger (Maha

Excellent image quality
Very good photo quality (though see issues below
Optical image stabilization
Great image quality at lower ISOs
Surprisingly good image quality (at lower ISO settings)

it can only cover the people in the forefront of a group picture
which adds an additional delay if you want to start taking picture right away
I noticed that with lens hoods image quality increases
Image quality: compared with my older Sony DSC600
Image quality: compared with my older Sony DSC600, Canon a720 has very grainy, noisy pictures what I took indoor
even while composing the same picture you took just before in the same lighting
I used the gridlines to compose a shot and the picture is dead-on straight
However, I used the gridlines to compose a shot and the picture is dead-on straight, so I do not consider this a fatal flaw
Image trop petite sur l'cran pour le collage en mode panorama
Best quality only at ISO 100
the quality is of course below the picture quality
Although you can record videos with the camera up to 4GB, the quality is of course below the picture quality
However, the picture quality is very good that should be the reason you buy it
Hard to get a sharp picture when testing the extreme of the macro
but the image it shows is very inaccurate
Too long a delay between taking a picture and being ready for the next picture especially using flash
Image quality suffers where lines are involved e g railings
Image quality suffers where lines are involved e g railings, yacht shrouds etc
image stabilasation does not seem to work sometimes

Good Image Quality
Compact, Good Image Quality, OIS, Good movie modes and recording quality, Uses AA batteries, Supports conversion lenses
Optical image stabilizer
Image quality
Image quality, range of features, price
great picture quality
good response (time lapse for picture)
many picture choices such as close-up
Fabulous resolutionMany different photo settings
Whether on the auto or manual settings, produces quality photos
Picture quality
Image Stablization and Ease of US
Picture quality, Image Stablization and Ease of US
This combined with the photo burst option allow you to capture great pictures of kids
Good quality pictures
Lots of modes and photo options
Image stabilization
8 MP, ease of use,optical stabilization,picture quality
Image Stabilizer
Excellent Picture Quality
Excellent Picture Quality, Lots of Manual Controls, AA Batteries, Image Stabilization
picture quality is terrific
picture quality is terrific,6x zoom is a bonus,the lcd is very good
Excellent image and movie quality
Excellent image and movie quality, amazing feature set, no shutter lag to speak of, very useful focal range, compact size, face detection is pretty cool
high-quality movies
size, picture quality
Excellent picture quality and face recognition ability
Great picture quality, 6x zoom, price
Great image quality
Great quality pics
Amazing picture quality
Amazing picture quality, great macro, fast operation
Image Quality, versatility, 6X zoom
image quality, features
Direct photo printing
pic quality
Top quality photos
You can make corrections after you took the picture
EXCELLENT picture quality for it's price/class
Picture quality is great
Top quality photographic results
Excellent image quality, Image Stabilization, Creative controls, large zoom
OPTICAL IMAGE STABILATION
good quality image for size/weight
Image stabilization is very effective
I also like the image stabilzer
Image quality is great I did an A4 picture of my friends cat and each hair stood out in fine detail
The image stabilisation is excellent
and makes it very easy to find and edit photo's
Wonderful 6x optical zoom Choice of scene modes Small and compact excellent picture quality
I must say I was impressed by the quality of the photos when one zooms in
I had the powershot 700 before and have upgraded to the 720 with image stabelizer and more pixels
Image quality is great
Image stabilisation is great
Picture quality is very good
The menus are easy to operate and the picture quality is very good
Image quality and colour
very sharp image
The image quality due to the increased pixel count is very noticeably improved
image quality build quality battery endurance image stabiliser and zoom reach
fabulous picture quality
zoom and image quality
Image quality is fantastic
good quality of images
Plenty of clever but useful features such as anti-shake and panorama assistance
Excellent Image quality combined with a range of manual modes
The image quality is excellent as you would expect from a Canon but I selected this model because of its 6x zoom
Picture quality in general
good picture quality -good handling -good picture programs(portrait
good picture quality -good handling -good picture programs(portrait, landscape, nightshot, etc
I have yet to master much else but the zoom is excellent & I find the picture quality good even on maximum digital zoom.The macro function is also excellent
Great image quality, good usability
image stabilisation
good quality
Amazing closeup shots and image quality
excellent quality
good image quality and a 6X optical zoom included
Lots of features, good image quality and a 6X optical zoom included
Image stabiliser allows telephoto without shake
great picture quality and colour
Big screen Manual settings Image quality Zoom lens Image stabilisor Good battery life
Image quality is fantastic, particulalry in good light
Has a good quality and tons of features
Features, design, picture quality
good picture quality
good picture quality, ease of use, nice design
Quality in good
very good picture and video quality
can get picture more powerfull
Good Photo Quality and Manual Mode
with effective mechanisms of Optical Image Stabilizer
Excellent photo quality
the quality of images is very briliant
have a good photo quality
the quality
the quality, the megapixels, its a canon
Image processing engine upgrade for DIGIC III
Optical Image Stabilizer High Sensitivity + Anti-Shake function of the dual
7, Optical Image Stabilizer High Sensitivity + Anti-Shake function of the dual
produces quality photos
great quality

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price

4

Rather cheap feeling plastics
I guess Canon had to cut somewhere to be able to sell it at that price
It feels cheap
but given it's strengths price
That said, it is still the absolute best option in terms of weight, size, price, and MANUAL CONTROLS

Well priced
Picture quality - viewfinder - value for money - red eye correction tool
price
Good price and lots of features
good price

For this price it could be slightly slimmer and should come with a decent carry case
Larger than some other similar priced cameras
like going to buy a car & having to purchase wheels separate
Its a bit on the heavy side an a little bulky compared to others similar in the price range and also similar to those in specification
cheap plastic feel
at this price
Build quality (maybe that's why it's a good value for money)
slightly expensive
slightly expensive,image stabilasation does not seem to work sometimes
EXPENSIVE
the price is too high and the design and the body is not elegant
Price a bit expensive
High Price
very expensive

low priced
price on digital cameras still quite high for most people
Range of features are very good for the price range
Good value for money
Real value for money
Good quality & features for the price
many features not often found in a compact excellent value for money
ease of use,many features not often found in a compact excellent value for money
Price for the product and specification is excellent
good price -nice to hold as more bulky than most compact digital cameras
value for money
value for money, functions,battery life
Good value
Good value, good quality, lots of features
Very well featured for price with everything from novice fully automatic to creative control
Excellent value for money as I used to own a film SLR years ago and wanted a small didgital camera where I could be in control of the pictures
Fantastic quality at the price
Optical image stabalizing is a great bonus for the price and has functioned well
range of features is hard to match at the price
80 percent frame coverage,range of features is hard to match at the price
True value for money
affordable price
Value of money and photo quality
cheap and high quality
high performance-price ratio
outstanding price
Light, great quality, awesome features, outstanding price

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performance

4

Low light performance not great
Slow shot-to-shot + burst speed (1.3 fps)
Slow shot-to-shot + burst speed (1.3 fps), Very Slow shot-to-shot w/ flash
Little bulky and slow
kinds of slow

quick nonflash performance
Snappy performance
Snappy performance, for the most part
USB 2.0 High Speed support
fast operation

The shutter speed seems a little slow
Recycling time is slow
Recycling time is slow, but worse of all, is very weak, compared the ELF series
Wish there was a quick way to review a pic w/o having to switch into play mode
ISO performance: useful only up to 400
slow
Just a bit slow I suppose
Just a bit slow I suppose, no big deal though
unless you carry a laptop around with you quick reference is difficult
I find autofocus to be a bit slow
The time lag between taking one shot and being ready to take another is slow
It is sometimes difficult to select the right function quick enough to capture the moment as you would like
Flash recycle speed slightly slow

Surprisingly good image quality (at lower ISO settings), Accurate metering in the majority of situations, Long lens with surprisingly good edge-to-edge performance, Handy macro performance at wide end of lens, Bright, clear screen, Very simple user interface, Good battery life out of NiMH AA batteries, Feels fast and responsive in use, Fairly subtle noise reduction in ISO 100-400 region, Direct print button can be customized into something useful, Comprehensive range of controls, Well priced
Great macro performance
Above average scores on almost all performance benchmarks
Very fast prefocus shutter lag of 0.08 second
Excellent low light performance
Fast and reliable features
the good to moderate light performance
Performance
The quick turn-on time and time between taking each picture is fast
comes up fast
fast
Lite weight, fast,low priced,
Or you can just put it on a pre-set setting of which ther are lots and take a quick snap knowing it will be a good picture
Quite quick between pushing the button and the photo being taken
Slow shutter lag after half press to set focussing and exposure set
Superb lens performance, Fast, Good battery life
Good performance
Focus speed quick
Focus speed quick, camera work more peaceful, benefit in grasp to clap
high-speed imaging are still upgrading the quality of space
1, high-speed imaging are still upgrading the quality of space

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focus

4

slow: the 1st push on shutter is for focus
Auto-focus is not very accurate in macro mode
continuous shoot mode hasn't continuos-auto-focus
continuous shoot mode hasn't continuos-auto-focus, and also it is difficult to use as the lcd doesn't remain "live" after the first shot
Focussing can be a little hesitant at very close distances, and sometimes gives focus confirmation when the image is obviously not actually in focus

Face detection sets focus
Face detection sets focus, exposure and flash power
Fast focus
focus is real wonderful
manual focus

Had quite a few macro pictures out of focus - I may not have got the hang of it yet
Seems to focus better if using some zoom with the macro
Focus takes some time to lock on in low light
The central focus of the average metering
slow focus on non-contrast items : need to move POV to some reference to focus and then move back to an object to take a picture

6x optical zoom, manual focus, high-quality movies, uses AA batteries
Very easy to focus and the image stabilisation is brilliant
Automatic setting works very well for most shots and focus is accurate and reliable
Good macro-focus
instant focus
Large screan, instant focus, good weight, fair tele
auto focus
9 : 00 in support of artificial intelligence auto focus
9 : 00 in support of artificial intelligence auto focus, face priority, the central single - point AF

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color

5

Some haloing and chromatic aberration
white balance is not as adjustable
color Monotony

great colour
Sharp pictures, great colour, fast operation, manual features
Good color accuracy
Auto white balance handles incandescent well
Ability to restore color

special color effects of the rich
Ability to restore color, special color effects of the rich
near perfect color recreation
the film is rather like the color
a variety of color patterns and post-processing functions
6, a variety of color patterns and post-processing functions
good color reproduction

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lens

5

Optical Viewer Inaccurate
Slow Lens
Scratches Easily, Eats Batteries - Buy Lithium, Optical Viewer Inaccurate, Slow Lens, High ISO High Grain,
Changing from capture to review mode retracts the lens
Changing from capture to review mode retracts the lens, which adds an additional delay if you want to start taking picture right away

6x optical zoom lens
Stabilized, 6x optical zoom lens
6X zoom lens is more than typical cameras in this price range
Long lens with surprisingly good edge-to-edge performance
Handy macro performance at wide end of lens

You'll lose the eye viewfinder and autofocus light when you use an adapter tube with a lens hood

image and lens artifacts
6X Optical
optical stabilization
Uses only 2 AA batteries,6X optical zoom, large LCD with optical viewfinder, easy to grip, & great pictures in low light situations
LENS ADAPTERS AVAILABLE PLUS OTHER ACCESSORIES
OPTICAL IMAGE STABILATION, 6X OPTICAL ZOOM, OPTICAL VIEW FINDER WITH 2.INCH VIEWING SCREEN, LENS ADAPTERS AVAILABLE PLUS OTHER ACCESSORIES, FOR UNDER $200
and it was a pleasant surprise to find that it appears to work through the lense like an SLR
6x zoom optical lens
There are endless permutations for manual changes for which you need a good understanding of how a camera lens works but I don't suppose the results would be much different to those achieved by using 'Auto'
lens quality
lens quality,zoom
Superb lens performance
Vibration Reduction Lens
6 times optical variable lens range 1cm Macro mode
equipped with 6 optical zoom lens Optical Image Stabilizer IS
1, equipped with 6 optical zoom lens Optical Image Stabilizer IS
if a wider zoom lens
2, if a wider zoom lens, then there would be a perfect

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zoom

5

Digital zoom is only 4x vs
6x optical zoom...more would have been great
picture is shaky when on the 5x and 6x zoom
The zoom switch is little harder to operate (compared to other Powershots
No optical zoom during movies (although not important for me

6x zoom with Optical Image Stabilization
Good Zoom
Good Zoom, Long Battery Life
zoom
It has high mega pixels ratio and zoom

if you zoom in
IS may help, if you zoom in, but my Sony took far better pictures without it
not much use when you're out & about Canon zoom browser ex programme seems useful but lacks good instructions/help
Would have preferred a wider "wide-end" at the expense of the onger end of the zoom focal length
Only 4x Optical Zoom

6X optical zoom
Large 2.5 inch display, 6X optical zoom, nice pictures
6X zoom
Image stabilization, 6X zoom, size, shooting modes
6x zoom is a bonus
It's a Canon, 6X Optical zoom, Image Stabilization
Nice zoom
Great quality pics, Nice zoom
I like the zoom feature too
large zoom
High Zoom Capabilities
I have very shaky hands but still get good results even at full zoom
x6 zoom is what I was wanting
x6 zoom is what I was wanting, and it is great
Very useful zoom range
Adequate zoom range
Excellent 6X optical zoom
good zoom range
very sharp image,good colours,good zoom range
Rapid resetting for the next shot.The image stabiliser woks exceptionally well
very good optical zoom manual very basic but can download a fuller copy from he diac
Range of zoom (6x
Really quick at taking photos and photos are great quality even with the massive zoom
Impressive zoom range
good optical zoom
Image stabilisation, good optical zoom, AA batteries
longer zoom
It's versatile, allowing both auto and manual options, zoom capability is great, and size ideal for ease of portability
The optical and digital zoom is also good
Crystal clear, Good size, Good Zoom,
High Pixel - great zoom
great zoom abilities
zoom for 6X
clear pictures, 8.0 mega pixels, 2.0 USB link, zoom for 6X, thin
6X Zoom capability
8.0 mexapixe,6X Zoom capability
Excellent zoom quality
with 6 optical zoom
8,000,000 pixels, with 6 optical zoom, easy shooting scene
powerful optical zoom
Greater display, powerful optical zoom

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memory

0.5

Included 16MB memory card is too small
Batteries die really fast, need to buy bigger memory card
Bundled memory card is tiny
Batteries sometimes fall out when you open the door to remove the memory card
But I'm concerned that the battery/memory card lid might break off

Easy set up with computer
Easy to download and sort on the computer

Found No Internal Memory to my surprise
Little memory storage included
Make sure you purchase memory and rechargeables
This only came w/ 16MB memory and 2 AA batteries
Despite first round troubleing and trying separate memory card
Despite first round troubleing and trying separate memory card, it is not working
Battery and memory compartment very hard to open
Don't understand why Canon don't make memory card bigger than 512mb
Why the small memory card included
Battery/memory card compartment feels as if it will fall apart, but is fine so far
It doesn't feel as though it will last very long Battery/memory card door also could be more sturdy
Standard memory chip an insullt at 16mb when the unit sensibly requires 512mb
Should include a larger memory card
Wish windows could just see it as a USB memory card or disk so easier to manage transfers
My only 2 bad points would be that the 16 MB memory card supplied is near useless as it only holds about 4 pictures
My only 2 bad points would be that the 16 MB memory card supplied is near useless as it only holds about 4 pictures, not even much good as an emergency back-up so most people will discard it, which is not very eco friendly
Doesn't come with a memory card of any use
Puny memory card Build quality could be better
No airframe memory
Feel that the memory is too small
need to buy bigger memory card

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LCD

3

Low pixel count in LCD (115K
So-so LCD screen
An articulated screen would perfect this little gem
Rear LCD is fixed
no swivel screen

Large 2.5" LCD
Large 2.5" LCD, good outdoor/indoor visibility
clear screen
large LCD and--to my eyes
Bigger screen

the LCD screen is not of a very high resolution but it does the job well
Oh yeah, there's one little complaint, the LCD screen is not of a very high resolution but it does the job well
LCD not viewable in bright sunlight
and also it is difficult to use as the lcd doesn't remain "live" after the first shot
My LCD
My LCD, like another reviewer mentioned, seems a little crooked
Its hard to take pictures of yourself without the flip out viewing screen
the screen is accurate
Of course, the screen is accurate, but it's strange that Canon could have got this so wrong
you have the screen - why have to download from a CD?
LCD screen not great in bright light
LCD screen not great in bright light, but does the job
but I don't use this because of the size of the LCD screen
The viewfinder seems really small, but I don't use this because of the size of the LCD screen
Of course, using the LCD screen to take pictures does make the battery life shorter, but that's the case with most up-to-date models of cameras now anyway
The LCD screen is difficult to see in sunlight, so the optical viewfinder is important
No way of adjusting the brightness of LCD
also LCD is quite low-res
No way of adjusting the brightness of LCD, also LCD is quite low-res
can be difficult to see screen in bright sunlight
Like all digitals, can be difficult to see screen in bright sunlight
LCD screen can easily shatter
Not much to mention would be nice having a vario screen, could be slighty more robust
Only 2.5 inches LCD screen 115
Only 2.5 inches LCD screen 115,000 pixels can not ke
LCD screen is only 115
LCD screen is only 115,000 pixels Heavier AA batteries
Screen tilt

Large LCD
the lcd is very good
screen
crisp LCD screen
Simple to use yet highly customisable, good battery life, crisp LCD screen
Large viewing screen
Excellent pictures/Good for an occasional movie/Large LCD screen/plenty of optional choices for you to use if you want - just read the manual
Crystal Clear Pictures
Large LCD screen
The larger LCD screen is obviously better but still is difficult to view on bright days
Really good sized LCD screen at the back which can be used to take the pictures with and/or view them on
The larger screen is also a major bonus to me over the old 1.8 inch
big screen (but see bad points)
The on screen instruction manual is very helpful
good screen
great screen
The Camera is very easy to use with clear icons on the LCD screen for each mode
Also the screen is great in low light conditions, as it enhances the image to make framing your subjects easier
Not reliant on LCD monitor
Crystal clear
Low-temperature polysilicon color LCD display
Low - temperature polysilicon color LCD display

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design

3.5

Looking forward to the advent of larger
A little more complicated than the lower spec cameras but once you've spent a bit of time looking at the manual

Stylish body
Sleek Design
Compact design
Small enough to be taken everywhere I go which is what I was looking for
nice design

video

5

Zoom in video mode limited to 4x
Video takes up a lot of space (no compression

Very good movie mode allows for over an hour of continuous VGA recording
Good movie modes and recording quality
Great photos and good video quality too
capable of recording up to 60 minutes of video
The video mode is also useful

WELL BUILT, GREAT OPTICAL ZOOM, AA BATTERY CAPACITY, FITS WELL IN HAND, GOOD VIDEO CAPABILITY
good quality video shots
Was surprised how good quality the video recorded was
with the cameras video quality working remarkably well
The optical and digital zoom is also good, with the cameras video quality working remarkably well

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build quality

2.5

Plastic construction doesn't inspire confidence in durability
Plastic body construction
I gave a perfect Construction rating because it's survived being dropped twice
low quality construction materials
Average build quality

Color reproduction and build quality very good
It is very compact yet sturdy
Build quality is good
but feels fairly sturdy Good quality results
Build quality is good and I also like the size

Build quality could be better
Plastic construction does not inspire confidence in the sustainability

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flash

0.5

Poor flash cycle time
Long flash recycle time
Sluggish flash recharge speeds
Battery life and flash recycle times far from class-leading (thanks to two AA cells)
Under powered flash

AF-assist lamp
AF-assist lamp, excellent low light focusing
external slave flash
Support for conversion lenses, external slave flash, and underwater case
exposure and flash power

Slow flash recycle times
Uneven flash coverage
Flash is slow to recycle
Flash range at ISO 100 limited to about 8 feet
The flash recycle time sucks if you are rushed
Bad placement for Flash
Bad placement for Flash, No Customizable Colors
If you take flash pictures the lag time between shots can be very annoying
slower than average recharge time for flash
somewhat slow response time for indoor (flash
Batteries don't last very long (especially in cold weather), somewhat slow response time for indoor (flash
Flash recharging time is 5-6 seconds but I can live with that
Slow shot-to-shot time for flash
Slow shot-to-shot time for flash, short battery life
Sorta' slow regen time between flash shots
Slow flash refresh time
Slow flash recycle time
flash recharge time
Flash recycle speed slightly slow, flash output in dimly lit rooms is weak
slow flash reaction time
slow flash reaction time, card and batteries in same door
Very Slow shot-to-shot w/ flash
No exernal flash mount
When using the flash, you have to wait 4 seconds between shots
Flash, battery life
Delay between pictures when using flash
Slow flash recycle
Slow flash recycle, I'd love RAW capability but that's asking a lot, no swivel screen
flash is slow to recharge
flash is slow to recharge, image stabilization (see comments), white balance is not as adjustable
A little slow from shot to shot when using flash
When using the flash
Slow recovery after using flash
Slow flash recharge
Flash
Flash recycle time is quite slow
because I hardly use the flash anyway
Flash recycle time is quite slow, for me it's no problem, because I hardly use the flash anyway, but if you do a lot of family shots indoors, it could become annoying
Long flash reload time
but the recycle time for the flash is pretty long
Not so much a problem as a disappointment, and so far it's just a maybe, but the recycle time for the flash is pretty long, at least compared to other small cameras
a good 5 ro 7 seconds are sometimes required between shots taken with the adjustable flash
Also, a good 5 ro 7 seconds are sometimes required between shots taken with the adjustable flash
Too much slow the flash recycling
but that's nothing that imaging software or a flash attachment can't fix
Quite a few of my shots contain red eye, but that's nothing that imaging software or a flash attachment can't fix
On indoor shots using flash
On indoor shots using flash, it eats standard Nimh 2700 mah batteries, but already ordered a higher quality charger (Maha
flash is needed to avoid shake when in digital zoom range
Usually in indoor/bad lighting, flash is needed to avoid shake when in digital zoom range
Long flash reload time(3-4 secs
The flash
The flash button is on the 12 o'clock location (of the four buttons around the func/set
Slow flash recovery
Problems: Weak flash
Problems: Weak flash, small sensor size resulting in noisy pictures in low light, low quality construction materials
flash is difficult to use on very near macro shots
S L O W flash recycle
Flash recycle time too long (up to 6-7 secs sometimes
Flash recycling time can be waaaay too long
focusing time seems longer when using the flash
Also, focusing time seems longer when using the flash, even while composing the same picture you took just before in the same lighting
Flash recycle time is a real issue
slow flash refresh
FLASH RECHARGE IS SLOW(I RARELY NEED IT WITH ISO SETTINGS AVAIL)a BIT BULKIER THAN OTHER COMPACT CAMERAS,NEEDS BATTERIES SPECIFIC FOR HIGH DRAIN DEVICES, OR IT WILL CONSUME A LOT OF ALKALINES
No printed manual Flash takes a little long to recharge after each shot no protective case included
Could be better built, the switches feel a bit feeble, flash charge cycle is a bit long but that's true for all 2xAA powered cameras
Telephoto lens takes a bit of getting used to, also after flash pictures time delay until able to next photo
slow to re-cycle when using flash
no external flash connection/hotshoe.memory card to small from factory
relative to my old canon s30 shureshot),slow to re-cycle when using flash,no external flash connection/hotshoe.memory card to small from factory
Rather restrictive 'auto' mode (eg can't force 'fill-in' flash
Cycle time between using flash is a little bit on the long side .i.e
The time it takes to recharge the flash
Slow flash re-cycling times
Lengthy flash recycle time, unusable ISO 1600
flash output in dimly lit rooms is weak
slow flash recharging time
battery life, slow flash recharging time
flash recyle time is high when battery is low

Flash power is variable so you shoot fill flash
Sometimes I want fill in flash
effective flash
Excellent spec at the price Shutter speed/aperture priority Optical image stabilisation Flash results

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energy efficiency

0.5

power
longevity, simplicity, power
Power hungry

Power-up and power-down work quickly

interface

2

being on-line
With our previous A70 we received a full and comprehensive user guide
The user guide provided with the A720is is no where near as detailed
Unfortunately we have mis-laid the better user guide

Very simple user interface
user friendly and very compact
user friendly and very compact , good quality of images
Face detection, 6x optical zoom, simple user interface, manual exposure controls, well priced

glare

5

It uses standard AA batteries which is brilliant as you can pick up rechargables very reasonably

exposure

5

(trick is to adjust exposure
(trick is to adjust exposure, shutter speed

so you can play about with exposure and shutter speeds and let your creative side out
Comfortable to hold, simplicity itself on automatic, plus lots of manual exposure and other options
exposure features
strong manual exposure functions
3, strong manual exposure functions

viewfinder

5

Optical viewfinder shows only about 80 percent of the captured scene
the switch to view photos and go back to picture taking is still awkward
and the almost never-seen optical viewfinder
You'll have to use the eye viewfinder
I prefer to use the viewfinder rather then the screen

Has an optical viewfinder
Good viewfinder
Size, capabilities, price, macro abilities, optical viewfinder
Also offers optical viewfinder
large LCD with optical viewfinder

I prefer to use the viewfinder rather then the screen, but the image it shows is very inaccurate, even at long distance
you need to line it up with the top of the viewfinder to get the right result
For example, if you like to put the horizon a third of the way down the frame, you need to line it up with the top of the viewfinder to get the right result
Optical viewfinder is inaccurate
Disapointing view finder
The viewfinder seems really small
Can't see screen in bright light (thank goodness for viewfinder)
View finder inaccurate
It was useful to have the viewfinder
view finder could be improved upon
Optical viewfinder only lets you view 80 percent of the scene

optical viewfinder
viewfinder
Zoom, viewfinder, screen, pic quality, battery life
OPTICAL VIEW FINDER WITH 2.INCH VIEWING SCREEN
clear screen and viewfinder
Having the viewfinder is useful in sunny conditions
Also includes a viewfinder, which most cameras lack nowadays, useful in sunny weather
It was bought primarily because it had a viewfinder (Avoiding sunlight reflecting from the screen
It has an optical viewfinder and a screen to see the images before downloading
having a proper viewfinder
Good features - sharp images, good screen, having a proper viewfinder, range of options when required (though I'm mostly a point and shoot person!), ability to add extra lenses if needed
Other than the restricted view through the viewfinder I have found nothing to criticise
(The viewfinder was & is an important feature since bright sunlight makes viewing the screen impossible
viewfinder etc
and having an optical view finder as well as an LCD screen that works well in strong sunlight
Optical image stabililisation and viewfinder
conventional viewfinder provided as well
Not reliant on LCD monitor, conventional viewfinder provided as well
View-finder uses zoom
Good to have an optical view finder
real-image optical viewfinder

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contrast

0.5

High contrast in outdoor shots

resolution

2

Mediocre LCD resolution
Low resolution screen
Low resolution LCD
Feels plasticky, Under powered flash, Low resolution LCD
Low LCD Resolution

Good resolution
more resolution
A little smaller (2 AA's), Bigger screen, more resolution
Zoom & high resolution are suberb features
Excellent combination of Resolution and Optical Zoom combined with image stabilisation technology

LCD resolution is not very good
The LCD has sucky resolution
The LCD has sucky resolution, but given it's strengths price, and the almost never-seen optical viewfinder, it's easy to let that slide
You will need to purchase a memory card as the one that comes with it only stores 6 photos at high resolution
average resolution LCD
Poor ISO 800-1600, average resolution LCD, no wireless file transfer
The LCD take a view machine a resolution to get behind with main current level

excellent image quality that allows you to trim photographs and not lose much in resolution
good picture quality maximum resolution and many more

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appearance

3.5

and it is impossible to select and lower or raw format
It seems to strong, and it is impossible to select and lower or raw format
Pas de format 3/2 enregistr
Ugly and chunky plastic box
no bad points used very much durring our holidays in germany good pictures some even look professional and for me thats got to be good

face-recognition capability
6x Optical zoom, Face Detection, Image Stabilizer, widescreen pictures, 8 Mega pixels
face recognition
Good look
The outward appearance is attractive

More conservative appearance
More conservative appearance, color Monotony

The appearance of easy to operate, the film is rather like the color
intelligent face focusing technology
2, high intelligence, intelligent face focusing technology
face priority

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sensor

0.5

The red eye reduction doesn't always work well
lapse time between one picture and another too long when red eye is on
Quite a few of my shots contain red eye
The picture element is not too high

Good Sensor
Outstanding Daylight Shots, 6X Optical, Good Sensor, Widescreen Frame Images
no red eye

menu

1.5

I realize there's only 3 volts in there, and to be honest I stuck in a brand new pair of Sanyo eneloop hybrids right out of the package without topping them off first, so they may have been down a bit
Even after I cranked up the power in the menu to its max
Even after I cranked up the power in the menu to its max, it can only cover the people in the forefront of a group picture
if you like to put the horizon a third of the way down the frame

The menu and dial are very intuitive
down to 1cm
A great macro, down to 1cm

battery

2.5

Eats Batteries - Buy Lithium
Batteries don't last very long (especially in cold weather)
short battery life
Uses batteries a bit too quickly
150 shots from AA batteries

Good battery life with high capacity rechargeables
Above average battery life
uses AA batteries
Good battery life out of NiMH AA batteries
AA batteries for power

Battery usageHeavier/bulkier due to the AA batteries
Eats batteries
Eats batteries, Kids and Pets mode isn't good,
low battery life
Eats batteries, Kids and Pets mode isn't good
battery life
but you MUST get rechargeable 2500/2700NimH batteries and carry a couple of sets with you if you can't readily buy wherever you're going
No problems, but you MUST get rechargeable 2500/2700NimH batteries and carry a couple of sets with you if you can't readily buy wherever you're going
I think the IS chews batteries if you keep it on Continuous mode versus 'only when Shooting'
it eats standard Nimh 2700 mah batteries
and higher quality batteries (Sanyo 2700 mah
always carry an extra pair of recharged batteries
Tips: Treat it carefully, always carry an extra pair of recharged batteries, (a soft pouch is a good solution for these
Battery life not great
Battery life is a pity
The same batteries would last
batteries after 50 pix
Battery life is not very good
Tends to gobble batteries
Battery life is lousy - get rechargeables quickly
The carry bag offered in the package is nice, but too small - a spare chip + 2 batteries can only just be accommodated
Battery life on normal batteries is not good...using Lithium batteries
Battery life on normal batteries is not good...using Lithium batteries, it allows camera to go that extra mile
Also think rechargeable batteries should be supplied
Not so much a bad point as a disadvantage it does discharge batteries quite quickly
Need to carry replacement charged batteries
Flimsy flap to battery compartment
Heavy on batteries (but see good points
Must point out though that the camera is using the supplied batteries and this may change with some different batteries
The manufacturer's website states that normal batteries should last 140 shots and Li-ion batteries 400 shots
Mine only last 10 shots with normal batteries and maybe 20 with Li-ion
Slightly fragile-feeling, especially the battery cover
AA batteries supplied: needs-must be replaced with rechargeable ones
Only around 150 photos using 2.600 MiNh rechargable batteries
Good idea to keep spare batteries handy, but that goes for all Digital cameras
low battery light flashes which is distracting and unnecessary
No functions assigned to left and right of multidirectional button, flimsy feel of casing, low battery light flashes which is distracting and unnecessary
Would prefer a powerful Li-Ion battery instead of AAs Can't see why it can't switch to macro automatically when image is too close on ordinary setting
Battery life is pretty short
Need top quality Ni-Mh batteries in good condition
Does not like my 1200ma rechargables shows low battery very quickly, seems to last on alkaline Ok , so may be my batts, no time lapse like the Ixus, slightly bulky
Not sure how good battery life is
Having had a last years model I am disappointed that batteries are a different size
Heavy on batteries
A bit bigger than other similar cameras but the advantage is you can use normal batteries
Door where batteries are installed is rather flimsy
Battery duration could be a problem
not too long life battery
000 pixels Heavier AA batteries
Batteries die really fast
Battery markings for + and - for loading are hard to find
Battery consumption is on the high side
Suggest you buy rechargeable batteries to protect your pocket

Good battery life with NiMH rechargeables
Battery timing is great
Long Battery Life
Image stabilization, Colours and Long battery life
2 AA batteries
uses AA batteries (easily replaced)
Uses 2x AA Batteries
Using AA batteries
AA Batteries
Uses only 2 AA batteries
good battery life
I have had it about 2 wks & am still on the same batteries
so I can't judge about battery life
I have had it about 2 wks & am still on the same batteries, so I can't judge about battery life
Easy to get replacement batteries since they are AA batteries
PLUS IT'S A CANON!RUNS ON 2 AA BATTERIES(FOR ME A PLUS
PLUS IT'S A CANON!RUNS ON 2 AA BATTERIES(FOR ME A PLUS, FOR OTHERS MAYBE NOT)It also takes great movies with sound , length limited to size of storage card or 2 hours
AA size batteries means you can always buy fresh ones if the rechargeable ones run out of charge
Power usage is low and I am still using the original batteries
Requires just two AA batteries
The batteries last for ever - even non-rechargeable ones
Easy to get great pics, Video really good, 6 times zoom useful, uses AA batteries so you can never be stuck without power
I used rechargeables and got excellent battery life
Uses AA batteries, I used rechargeables and got excellent battery life
OPITICAL ZOOM IS GOOD FOR THE VALUE OF MONEY I PAID AA BATTERY I LIKED THAN LI ION BATTERY
Going on holiday it will be nice not to have to take a heave charger and not be stuck on a day out with a flat battery as I can allways have a couple of spares with me
Battery life good
It takes AA batteries
It takes AA batteries, great for travelling
size, weight, battery life

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shutter

5

shutter speed

no shutter lag to speak of
Great shutter speed and clarity
obvious shutter sound so that you 'know' you've taken a picture
fast shutter response

usability

5

No ultra-wide-angleÃ¯Â¼Å'Lack of exercise scenarios
Negotiating through the many menus takes some practice
it's easy to let that slide
Very helpful features available...but not compatible in both Auto/scene and manual modes.(if there in 1 not there in other
and you can't use the button to toggle through the different ISOs

Manual exposure controls
Full manual controls
manual features
Feels fast and responsive in use
Comprehensive range of controls

It can be programmed to one button, but unlike the other Powershots I have used, once the button only takes you to select ISO mode, and you can't use the button to toggle through the different ISOs
try to use CHDK
and, if possible, try to use CHDK
tripod screw point is not centered and it's made of plastic which could wear out with heavy use
you'll have to use some tricks (like white things to diffuse the light
flash is difficult to use on very near macro shots, you'll have to use some tricks (like white things to diffuse the light
completed ONE simple offer and met the requirements to receive one for FREE 3 weeks later in the post
I checked out the website, completed ONE simple offer and met the requirements to receive one for FREE 3 weeks later in the post
then it's easy
A little more complicated than the lower spec cameras but once you've spent a bit of time looking at the manual, then it's easy
The manual itself
The manual itself, being on-line, is rather inconvenient as you obviously can't take it with you when you're out with the camera and decide you need to use a feature you've not tried before
There are a lot of features not available on lower spec cameras which you obviously need to learn how to use
Personally I don't like to try to take it all on board at once and will only learn how to use a feature when I actually need to use it
It would be good to have the manual in written form rather than on disc
The instruction manual is on disc
whilst this is easy to use
The instruction manual is on disc, whilst this is easy to use, unless you carry a laptop around with you quick reference is difficult
Instructions - condensed instruction manual would be helpful - the "getting started" instructions are insufficient - the digital manual is more than 200 pages
Full printed manual not supplied - only on accompanying CD
Full printed manual not supplied - only on accompanying CD, not much use when you're out & about Canon zoom browser ex programme seems useful but lacks good instructions/help
The full instruction manual is not printed but is on CD in pdf format
I use top quality JPEG sizes which makes for larger files of course - not sure how much it would speed up on a lesser JPEG size
NOT VERY EASY TO USE
which is not very eco friendly
Also the use of the tripod mount is more difficult as its positioned at the left hand edge and therefore weight distribution is uneven and anything other than a fixed based tripod will have problems

Powerful manual functionsÃ
Manual controls in a budget compact
The A720 IS takes great pictures and is loaded with easy to use features at a very affordable price
Easy to use right out of the box
Easy to use
Easy to use, clear photos
easy to use features
great picture quality, near perfect color recreation, easy to use features
easy to use software
Easy to use, easy to use software, no red eye, many picture choices such as close-up, zoom, night, etc
easy on and off switch
Easy-to-learn menus and settings
Performance, image quality, easy to use, 2 AA batteries, features, price, uses SD cards
good pictures, mode settings generally work well, easy to use, camera provides indications of when you are zooming too far for photo quality
Easy to handle
Easy-to-use controls
ease of use
simple
Lots of Manual Controls
easy to grip
sharp pictures, easy to use
easy use
Lightweight, small, easy use
Easy to use, not bulky, good price
Simple to use yet highly customisable
Very easy function
Very easy function, wonderful pictures
I love my new Canon Powershot It takes great pictures & is small & easy to carry around
Easy to use and has many options
Excellent pictures,ease of use,and many features
Creative controls
Easy to carry but not too small
Very affordable and easy to use camera with options that easily exceed the majority of casual user needs
easy to use for basic photography with added functions for the more serious photographer
Auto setting produces good results if you are too lazy to use other settings
The Canon software which loads the pictures on to the computer etc is easy to use
Good picture quality, and brilliant zoom, easy to use
I only needed to use the manual when it came to the features I didn't have on my old Fuji
easy to use, great pics, price on digital cameras still quite high for most people
The software is also very easy to set up and use
The software is also very easy to set up and use, and makes it very easy to find and edit photo's
easy to use - and survived being dropped on a mountaintop
Excellent camera - good pictures, easy to use - and survived being dropped on a mountaintop
Its nice and easy to use and is friendly for those who are not good with cameras
You can either use all facilities or like myself
You can either use all facilities or like myself, leave on auto and it does the job brilliantly
Range of features Initial ease of use Great screen
The Powershot A720is can be relied upon to take good photos in most situations and is dead easy to use
The camera is easy to use and the controls are well thought through facilitating picture composition
Found it very easy to use the basics
A lot of manual controls should you wish to use them
Easy to use and to understand
Easy to use and to understand, which is always great
Good zoom and easy to use menus
Quality - manual options - easy point and shoot
sensible layout of controls
Haven't got to more complex use yet
Haven't got to more complex use yet, but seems like plenty of possibilities
Easy to use and excellent quality photos
Very versitial - easy to hold and use and big screen helps with video and pics
easy to use only 2 aa batteries large screen face detector
Simple to use An upgrade from my previous camera
Optical viewfinder Manual controls
It's smaller than my old A40 but not so small I can't use it
I have found it reasonably easy to use and the pictures I have taken so far have all been good quality
It has all the manual settings
big clear screen - quite simple to use
light , big clear screen - quite simple to use
BAsically can do the whole point and shoot but also has more advanced features should you want to use them
For the price the spec is superb and easy to use but with full manual if required
Good looks & build quality, easy to use and fits the hand well, with a nice clear viewfinder
The grip is excellent making one-handed shots easy to grab
Great picture quality Easy to use
Compact,easy to use, good zoom
fairly easy to use
Lovely pictures, fairly easy to use, image stabilisation, viewfinder etc
Easy to carry around and functions are easy to use...and lots of them
Controls intuitive to use
Genuinely fun to use
Loads of technical features that take you beyond a simple point and shoot
Easy to use, excellent quality,great screen
ease of use for beginners
good for holding, ease of use for beginners, plenty of good features for more experienced people
It is easy to use and has lots of features for a bit of creativity
It can be as easy to use as you want as it has an auto option which produces good quality pictures
Manual options easy to use (eg shutter priority)
good instruction manual
Manual options easy to use (eg shutter priority), clear menus, good instruction manual
Reasonably simple to use
So easy to download pictures on to PC
with its manual settings
easy to use even for a novice like me.gives exactly what it says it can do without any fuss
Easy to use with lots of manual features if you want them..but Auto mode really good
Very easy to use but also lots of features
Good size and simple to use
I love it, has loads of features, amazing picture quality, easy to use, fast start up and response times
Good look,easy to use
Has nice review features - easy to delete photos
easy shooting scene
Supports full manual operation
The appearance of easy to operate
Practical
Practical, micro
Whether on the auto or manual settings
Easy touse, and learn
manual controls
6X zoom, good color reproduction, ease of use, manual controls, IS

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connectivity

5

2.0 USB link

screen

4.5

display the effect of insufficient detail

Large 2.5 inch display
Greater display

remote control

5

Remote control would be useful
Control of manual settings can be a bit awkward
No wireless or IR remote control available
Does not have remote control via PC

Full Manual Control
and there is also full manual control for those who want to advance their photography skills
Great manual control features
Manual control
I particularly like the choice of different picture settings and the manual control

Good control
Manual features for more picture control

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sound

0.5

High ISO shots are noisy (which is pretty typical in this class
highest ISO settings very noisy
Noisy images in low light
Noisy images in low light, even at low ISOs
shots noisy at higher ISO levels

FOR OTHERS MAYBE NOT)It also takes great movies with sound

Some haloing and chromatic aberration, shots noisy at higher ISO levels
Very noisy in high iso
ISO 400 and above noisy
Noisy at higher ISOs
Noisy at higher ISOs, but what compact isn't
small sensor size resulting in noisy pictures in low light
800 and 1600 far too noisy
noisy pictures what I took indoor
lens're kinda noisy
Pics can be a bit noisy at high ISO levels

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maps

5

I always have loads of AA rechargeables with me for GPS, torch etc, so for me the fact that it uses AA is a plus point

reception

5

Face detection can be annoying

Well-implemented face detection
Well-implemented face detection, redeye reduction features
face-detection technology
Face Detection
face detection is pretty cool

like red eye correction or face detection
face detection user friendly

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portability

5

Heavy weight camera
low light capability
low light pictures
but what compact isn't
Any sony compact camara takes much better and sharp pictures

excellent low light focusing
Compact
If your after a chunky quality compact this is the one
Better even than the G9 except it does'nt shoot RAW If there is a better compact from any manufacturer,yes even Panasonic I would like to know about it
Light/pocketable high quality all purpose compact digital camera

Heavy
Not exactly pocket sized but still lighter than my previous cameras
Somewhat heavy for cameras its size
POOR PERFORMANCE IN LOW LIGHT CONDITIONS, GRAINY APPEARANCE OF IMAGES IN LOW LIGHT, SOME FEATURES ARE LACKIING
Bit big for pocket - to be expected
On the large side for a compact, so finding a suitable smallish bag is tricky.Not convinced yet that the dynamic range is as good as my previous compact digital - sky seems over exposed if ground is correctly exposed
Since it was catergorised in compact cameras
i would assume it be compact but in fact it is not
Since it was catergorised in compact cameras, i would assume it be compact but in fact it is not, it is chunky
Fuselage slightly heavy
weight 200g
Difficult to take photograph with low light
Heavy weight
Heavy weight, flash recyle time is high when battery is low

light
Light-weight
Light-weight, uses AA batteries (easily replaced), face-recognition capability
Lightweight and solid
light weight
Programable, light weight, Takes great pictures
compact size
& great pictures in low light situations
Lightweight
Lite weight
Portable
not the smallest for your pocket
Large screen - starts up quickly - light in weight
Large screen - starts up quickly - light in weight, but feels fairly sturdy Good quality results
The camera is also nice and light and compact
Small and compact fits easily in pocket
Size (goes in shirt-pocket
Good weight and balance with excellent image viewer
It weighs little & fits my trouser pocket
The product is compact and lightweight and produces good clarity pictures
Even takes good quality photos in bad light
Compact dimensions
Size nice and compact not too fiddly, really chuffed with the teleconverter
relatively compact and light
Features, IS, longer zoom, relatively compact and light
It's a compact SLR based product and a good complement to an SLR
good weight
particulalry in good light
thin
Compact, Better Than Previous Versions
Light/pocketable high quality all purpose compact digital camera - excellent pictures
slim and thin
weight
Small and light to carry around

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size

2.5

Redeye a big problem
Redeye a big problem, though it can be removed in playback mode
A little plasticky
A little plasticky, barrelling at wide end
Little big and heavy

Great 6x focal length
small size
Handles well, good response (time lapse for picture), small size, 8 megapixels (as much as my SLR!), overall GREAT point & shoot
A little smaller (2 AA's)
yet not too large

Little big and heavy, Uncomfortable grip, low battery life
A little large by today's standards for a digital camera
It's a bit small for large hands
there's one little complaint
I am very happy with this little gem
seems a little crooked
a little bulky
no big deal though
even at long distance
Smaller/flatter would be nice but it is already a fraction the size of a "real" SLR
Surely for a few extra pounds you could provide a sensible size
A little too large to slip into the average pocket
so limited in length
Feels a little plastically
Although a little aggressively
Big Body
Large

Body substantial enough to hold easily, yet not too large
size
length limited to size of storage card or 2 hours
Optimum size - not too small
Size (goes in shirt-pocket, just), 6x zoom, fabulous picture quality, fast shutter response, excellent macro goes incredibly close (but see bad points), effective flash, big screen (but see bad points), optical viewfinder, sensible layout of controls
Good size
Small but large enough to grip comfortably and handle
Large screan
Big brands
big pixel

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Canon PowerShot A720 IS Reviews Analysis

What people think about the Canon PowerShot A720 IS: (BETA!)

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