2" LCD - 3x Optical Zoom - 2592 x 1944 Image - 640 x 480 Video - PictBridge - MPN: 0557B001
Strengths: Small, long battery life, easy to use, sharp pictures
Weakness: flash can alter colors, LCD could be larger
My wife uses this camera the most and is usually pretty hard on all electronics so the fact it has lasted for more than 2 years is impressive. It has been dropped, banged, and crushed under many items in bag with no problems (knock on wood). We just keep it in a sunglasses bag. This wipes the screen clean and is easily pulled out to use. We leave the image setting on fine which makes 1.2MB pictures which I usually reduce to post on web pages and send in emails.
This camera was a replacement for our old Nikon 990 which started to fail us after about 3 years. The Nikon had a really slow reaction time when taking pictures. This camera takes pictures immediately. We have found that the flash seems to be a bit overpowering in some instances, such that it turns skin tones a funny color. To get more realistic colors I usually take the pictures without any flash.
I like the fact that I do not need any special software to use this camera. Simply plug it in and either the Windows Camera Wizard pops up and will download and delete the images on the camera or you can open the camera up like a flash drive and you can move or rename photos.
We have had yet to recharge the battery before we needed to download. I would have preferred to have a plug in cable to recharge the battery in the camera versus pulling the battery out and placing it in a charger.
We do not use the video option at all since we have a digital camcorder.
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TopStrengths: none
Weakness: cheap garbage. Your LCD will break from normal use.
Bought this way overpriced camera. The same day I took it out of pocket and noticed the LCD was cracked. I really thought Canon was good quality, but wow, this is the worst camera I have ever bought and will never buy Canon again.
The poor customer service I got when I called them only infuriated me more. They completely deny there is an issue.
Please stay away from think junk.
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TopStrengths: Compact, Easy to use(when it works)
Weakness: Memory Card Errors
My SD400 worked great for the first 25 pictures, then, it started giving "Memory Card Error" errors. After repeatedly re-formatting the SD card and even replacing the card, the problem still persists. I know it is not the SD card itself as it can be read using an external SD card reader. In the process of seek remediation from Canon as I can tell from other newsgroups that I am not the only poor soul stuck with this piece of junk. I would not recommend the SD400.
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TopStrengths: Small, light camera, 2"LCD, good images quality, nice design
Weakness: Red eyes derivation, 16MG SD Memory Card
Small, light, easy pocketable contemporary digital camera
with very good images quality, excellent set of features,
quite responsive, flush strong enough for amateur use for still pictures, 2"LCD screen is a plus comparative to my previous Pentax cameras.This camera has a rare in small cameras feature - an optical viewfinder that very helpful at bright sunny days. I like so much camera's Continuous Shooting Mode and especially amazing TV-quality video (could be done in different modes) with excellent sound which gives possibility compose video clips when one was using 1GB or better 2GB SD Memory Card. And better have with you spare battery when shooting movie. I took this
camera several times in few countries and very glad that
I have bought this excellent product.
I highly recommend this camera for both experienced peoples and beginners.
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TopStrengths: Small, light, good quality photos
Weakness: Horrible red eye, Memory Card Error
I was very pleased with this camera for about two years. Then, it started having problems. The camera has "Memory Card Errors" which erase the photos on the memory card and does not allow you to take new ones. I have read review after review on Amazon.com and other websites of people experiencing this same problem after owning the camera for 1.5 - 2 years. Six months ago I would have strongly recommended this camera, but now, I don't think I'll ever buy a Canon again.
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TopStrengths: small, vga video, usb cable (no docking required), nice 2" lcd
Weakness: no battery level indicator, no zoom in video mode, must be real careful with av & battery/memory doors.
I bought this camera about a year ago and I still luv it. I don't recommend this for someone who wants high quality pics. Its more for the person who wants a camera around when a "Kodak moment" pops up. Its small and easy to carry around yet good enough for special events. I use the video capture feature all the time.
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TopStrengths: Compact Size, Durability, Ease of Use
Weakness: Weak Fash, Red Eye Reductino could be better, the battery / SD Card cover is a litte flimsy. LCD Screen is easy to scratch.
This is the 3rd generation of this camera that I have purchased. I first owned a Powershot 200 - which I lost, maybe because of it's small size? I currently have a Powershot SD 300 and just bought the SD 400 for my wife. They are all basically the same camera except the resolution has increased from 3.2 Megapix (PowerShot 200) to 5 Megapix (SD 400). I work in the utility construction industry & I use the camera almost everyday - often in harsh environments and it has held up very well.
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TopStrengths: Ultra-compact
Weakness: Horrible red-eye.
This is a nice small camera. The Digic II processor is great. Fast start-up times. Terrible red-eye problems because of the proximity of the flash to the lens. Image quality was disappointing.
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Tomoyochan
- Dec 21, 2005
Strengths: Great Camera
Weakness: none
This camera offers the best value for your money. The Digic II processor is amazing. It offers great detail and pictures are easy. Perfect for taking on the go. You can put it in your purse or pocket and take it out to snap pictures.
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TopStrengths: Small and handy
Weakness: not sure yet. Maybe being so small its more prone to being damaged, like putting in my pocket
I’ve also purchased a Canon SD400 in the last month. I surfed the web and checked owner reviews prior to buying this model. I never saw any letters regarding broken LCD’s. But now I’ve seen lots. At this point I can only assume that since this camera is very small and capable of putting in your pocket, one is better off not doing so and treating these SD models as very very delicate. Last week I purchased a $6. “hard acrylic” cover to fit over the LCD and it fits great. I’m thinking that preventing any pressure on the LCD by using this protector could prevent this problem. I own (5) other Digital cameras, 2 Nikons, 2 Panasonic and 1 Olympus and have had the oldest one over 4 years, so far 100% problem free . After all the negative reviews on the SD LCD’s I’ll be extra cautious and wait to see how this pans out and hope that this acrylic cover is the fix.
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TopWhere did you get the protective cover ???
Thanks !
Strengths: Features, size, ease of use
Weakness: Poor image quality, purple fringe, exposure accu., flash
I have used my SD400 for about 3 months and overall find that the camera has everything I could want but the images just aren't up to my expectations. Poor details, soft looking images, exposure issues. In fact, I was so disappointed I sent it back to the service station just to see if something might be wrong. Canon promptly serviced it but provided no information regarding the camera's status - no comment if there was a problem or not. But the service was prompt.
Since receiving the camera back from servicing I can't really say that the images have improved. It still has poor detail in the images, soft, exposure is iffy. I miss my old Nikon 990. Could it be that going with a camera of this size the sacrific is quality images? I don't know but after 3-4 months of ownership I am going to move on.
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Reply by member: Tomoyochan
hmm thats weird, the pictures I take are nice and sharp.
At what level do you have your resolution? We have had our camera for 2 years and have very sharp pictures. I keep the resolution at Fine (holds 347 images, ~1.2 MB per image).
Strengths: Ultra small, sturdy metal body, super cute!
Weakness: Picture quality isn't what I'd hoped for, too much red eye, and the auto-focus could be better especially in low light conditions!
This was my first digital camera, it was kind of an impulse buy, and I've really be happy with it all in all. I've taken so many great pictures with it, and it's so much better most of the other Camera's I see people with out there. However, it could be better. The image quality isn't that great, especially in outdoor situations with hi contrast. There is far too much of the "halo" effect for my tastes. Also, this camera really seems to bring out the red eye in people, thankfully it comes with great software that does a pretty good job of getting rid of this! The software actually is one of the real quality features of this camera, in fact it's so good I find myself using it on all kinds of other things that have nothing to do with the camera. If only the auto focus was quicker in low light conditions, especially at a distance, and the camera produces less red eye. That would be a vast improvement. Still, it's very fast, and while many other camera's are taking for ever to click away you'll be able to take three or four pictures, which makes up for the few that don't turn out.
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TopStrengths: Features, size & picture quality
Weakness: LCD breaks way too easily!!!!!!!!!
I do really love this camera, but there is no plastic protecting the LCD (unlike on other manufacturer's cameras) which allows the LCD to get broken WAY to easily. This is a HUGE oversight on Canon's part and this issue needs to be addresed before I would even consider buying another one. On top of that, the horror stories about the crappy customer support and the $150 dollar charge for any warrenty work is true!
I think that cubzter really sums it up in his review "Shoddily Built, Plus Horrible Customer Service"
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TopHi trw20,
Where would I go to get a replacement LCD screen? Recently dropped my SD400 and need one before Christmas ;-) .... just started looking on the web and so far no luck. I notice the screen is made by Sony.
Strengths: Amazing picture quality, size, menu navigation
Weakness: Brittle LCD, poor customer service
While I adore the quality of pictures that this camera takes, I couldn't be more infuriated about the fragile LCD! Mine broke in a matter of weeks. We are utterly careful with our mobile technologies and used extreme caution with this camera. We had this camera for one month when the LCD broke. While we have no idea how the LCD could have broken, my husband believes that it was due to him simply putting it in his pocket and sitting down in a chair. We believe that the pressure from his pocket broke the LCD. How rediculous is this?? The camera is small enough to fit in your pocket, yet you can't put it there. We too, have had other digital cameras and have NEVER had this experience. We have also dealt with the ambivilent customer service reps - they will not troubleshoot with you over the phone. They make you sent the camera in for inspection (which we expect to result in a $150 repair charge). Based on this problem alone, I would NOT recommend this camera - it's not worth it. It's unfortunate, because I think Canon nailed every other function on this piece of machinery. I would never purchase this model again if I knew then what I know now.
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TopHmm. . .your husband put the cam in his pocket and sat on it, the screen broke, and you blame Canon. ANY LCD will crack if you sit on it; sure it's unfortunate but don't blame the camera.
Strengths: Camera is tiny and takes high quality images with great versatility!
Weakness: Slight delays when switching functions and viewfinder scratches easily.
The SD400 takes great pics and has alot of features, especially in manual mode switching from black and white to sepia to underwater, etc. Camera is amazingly small and discreetly fits into small pockets. Software and uploading is simple, battery is small and has reasonably long life. My only complaint is viewing screen scratches VERY easily (I scratched mine on the first day). Also, there are available protective waterproof housings available (sold separately). I love this camera!
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TopStrengths: Size, Image Quality, "Cool" Factor
Weakness: LCD is Ridiculously Fragile (Apparently This is a Widespread Problem), Buttons Somewhat Hard to Use
I purchased this camera 6 weeks ago. It is my fourth digital camera, but my first (and last) Canon product. To say that I am dissatisfied with this product is a huge understatement. Never have I purchased such a piece of garbage in my life.
After purchasing it I noticed the "Spotlight" review on Amazon.com for this product which says:
“-The LCD is very fragile. Read the SD200 and SD300 reviews to see lots of unhappy people whose LCDs broke. Canon's warranty does NOT cover this either.”
The reviewer is absolutely correct. I'm yet another one of those unhappy people. The LCD on this camera is a ridiculously delicate. Despite incredibly careful handling and very limited use the LCD broke within weeks. Again, I've had four digital cameras before this one (two by Kodak, two by Olympus) and have never had any of them break or malfunction in any way. In fact, I still have no idea whatsoever what "incident" caused the Canon LCD to break.
I sent the camera in for warranty repair assuming it would be covered...no, not so much.
In addition to the shoddy construction of the camera, dealing with Canon customer service was a complete nightmare. They were utterly indifferent and unwilling to help. They just kept saying that if it the LCD was broken then it must automatically mean that I did something to it, oh and by the way “your warranty is now voided.” To them there was absolutely no possibility that they are selling a sub-standard product, or that the LCD might have been damaged before I got it. We’re perfect, you’re not, now pay up.
What they did tell me—over and over again—was how fragile the LCD on this camera is and how you must take "extreme" care when using it. Excuse me, but "extreme" care when handling a “point-and-shoot” type camera? What in the world do these people think their customers do with these cameras, leave them in a box somewhere? Apparently the box is, in fact, the only appropriate operating environment for this camera. I mean, it's a TRAVEL-SIZED camera...you're going to take it places.
Anyway, after bumping my complaint up to a supervisor I was able to get a whopping 20 percent reduction on the repair, but it will still cost over $100 (which is about 1/3 of the cost of the purchase price of the camera). I was also told repeatedly by the supervisor that it is against "Canon policy" to waive LCD repairs and that, again, I must have used it in an incorrect manner.
Despite the admitted positives of this camera with regard to image quality, I strongly urge that you buy a more robustly built camera if you intend to use it as any reasonable person would; after all, what good are pretty images if the camera doesn’t work?
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TopI couldn't agree with this comment more and am absolutely infuriated about the LCD issue! We are utterly careful with our mobile technologies and used extreme caution with this camera. We had this camera for one month when the LCD broke. The camera is no good to you without an LCD - this is where your configuration options are located. While we have no idea how the LCD could have broken, my husband believes that it was due to him simply putting it in his pocket and sitting down in a chair. We believe that the pressure from his pocket broke the LCD. How rediculous is this?? The camera is small enough to fit in your pocket, yet you can't put it there. We too, have had other digital cameras and have NEVER had this experience.
We have also dealt with the ambivilent customer service reps - they will not troubleshoot with you over the phone. They make you sent the camera in for inspection (which we expect to result in a $150 repair charge).
Based on this problem alone, I would NOT recommend this camera - it's not worth it. It's unfortunate, because I think Canon nailed every other function on this piece of machinery. I would never purchase this model again if I knew what I know now.
I love this camera both for its features and functionality.
P.S.
You've probably never had this experience with your other cameras because you didn't SIT ON 'EM!
I agree the camera is fantastic except for the fragile LCD. It's a pocket sized camera, so you should be able to put it there! It wasn't sat on - it was in a loose pant pocket and supposedly received too much pressure from a crease in a pocket fold. FYI - if you've looked for hard cases for the SD400, you would have noticed that Canon developed a stiff leather case ONLY for this model - no other model. What does this tell you? They realize they developed a crap LCD on this model and are trying to compensate for this. Oh, and the case is another $25.
if you dont want ur lcd to break buy something to protect it! for 6 dollars u can save the time, frustration, and extra money and buy an lcd protector...u can get them at many diff. places! so good luck with not breaking things nemore!
i bought this camera and was immediately impressed by it's functionality and design. great features, size, and even style. I bought a case for it as well and a lcd screen protector to prevent scratching. however... the display mysteriously broke in my pocket in the stiff leather case. it WAS a nice camera but not much use anymore. my warrant from canon is voided because the screen is damaged so they aren't much help. canon makes cameras that take unbelivable pictures, but they messed up on this style. previous comments are correct in that a point and shoot camera should be tough enough to last in the pocket they so easily fit in.
Ditto on the display. I went years with my S-400 in my pocket with no problems, but was attracted to the larger display on the SD-400. I've been through SEVERAL displays since I purchased the SD-400 only 5 months ago FOR NO APPARENT REASON! If I was banging it around I would at least have a logical reason for the failures, but I wasn't. THIS SHOULD NOT HAVE HAPPENED!
I totally agree with you all. I had an SD230 for over 2 years and had NO problems. I left the camera unattended and it was stolen... so I had to buy another camera. I loved the canons and the SD300 was what I purchased. The SD200, SD300 and SD400 ALL have this problem. Go to Google.com and type in SD300 LCD and you will see an entire MESSAGE BOARD filled with complaint and ways people tried to get this thing fixed. I got my camera from Best Buy and bought the extended 3 year warranty and of course they didnt cover the LCD either???? I did not do ANYTHING to my camera. I was using it. put it on the table, then picked it up and the screen was cracked underneath. I agree. you should be able to put a pocket sized camera in your POCKET! DUH! You also should be able to put it on a table! haha I am VERY angry and will NEVER buy another Canon product! Make sure you get your camera somewhere that will give you a warranty on the LCD SCREEN! You have been warned!
Strengths: Small size, clear pictures, video capabilities
Weakness: Drain battery really fast.
The camera is small enough that I could take with me anywhere and everywhere. The picture quality is great, however, red eye reduction could be improve. The battery that it comes with allow only 2 hours of use, which means I pretty much have to charge it every time i use it. The video is great. It takes video and sounds simultaneously like a regular video camcorder. However, it does not have flash and zoom function. Overall, I love the camera.
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TopStrengths: camera is light weight and takes great quality pictures. The fact that you can take multiple pictures by just holding down the button is amazing. Great great camera
Weakness: The flash isn't strong enough to really create great fill.
The SD 400 is one of the better purchases that i've made in the digital camera arena. It provide a great little companion on my most recent trip and i highly recommend buying the 1gig chip with it. You'll take more pictures than you could possibly want. It's a winner!
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TopStrengths: Easy to use, small size, can fit in pocket
Weakness: None
I love the sd400. Originally, I had the sd300 but upgraded to the 5.3 MP sd400. The sd400 has the same small size as the sd300 and the lcd is clear and bright. Great quality camera!
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TopStrengths: Takes pictures fast and it is easy to use. Useful guide that explains in detail the way to use the camera for beginners. Great overall value for the price of the didgital camera.
Weakness: Sometimes pictures don't develop as they look on the screen. This may only be the case when you develop them on cheap film. Not much more to say here yet.
Great overall value for the price of the didgital camera. No major difficulties have been encountered over the 2 months that I have had it. Everything functions correctly and it is easy to use.
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TopGreat experience to use the camera. The zoom lens feature is the best than any other camera. I would also like to suggest other people to buy this fabulous camera.
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TopStrengths: Good picture quality for such an ultra compact camera Compact...you can carry it anywhere. Strong case...only a minor dent after dropping it.
Weakness: No timestamp unless you use the postcard feature. No preview button...you have to switch to the play mode. No protection for LCD screen. Pricy compared to ther cameras in its class.
You can't find a better ultra compact camera out there. It's a bit pricy but well worth the price. The LCD screen isn't protected so it's easy to get fingerprints on it.
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TopStrengths: Low light focus with assist light (works well), small yet still useable, no irritating lens cap, fast bootup and low shutter lag
Weakness: Flimsy cover over micro-usb cable port.. has not broken off but I worry about long term.
Sold my Nikon 4300 on Ebay. The main reason is my wife thought the Nikon was fat and ugly. She also complained about poor focusing and shutter lag. She hated the lens cap. I agreed but I actually thought it took very good pictures so I kept it for awhile. Then I tried the SD400 and man.. what a difference a years worth of technology makes. Pull it out and hit the power and bamm ready to go..the menus are clear and the screen is big and bright and when it focuses it outlines the item it is focusing on. I love the color. I kept the Nikon photo-editing software installed because I KNEW it. The small size is perfect for her purse and she actually uses it much more. I got the cheapest 512M SD Card I could find which I think was at BestBuy after rebate and have had no problems. I was a little concerned I needed a high speed card but I have found it works very well. The littlest case (Lowepro) fits perfect for under $15. You will not be sorry and my wife says the size does matter.
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TopStrengths: Small compact design, uses relatively cheap SD memory cards.
Weakness: Seems like the LCD is pretty weak. Must treat it with care.
For me, it was either the SD400 or the SD500. I went with the SD400 instead because it was much smaller than the 500 and 5MP pictures are just fine with me. Overall this camera is a breeze to use. Menus are clear and very easier to understand even without opening the instructions. Picture and sound quality in movie mode is good, but this camera was meant to take still photos so you can't expect too much from that. If you are buying this be sure to get a large SD card because the 16MB one that comes with it is a joke. In my opinion, one of the best digital cameras I have ever used.
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TopStrengths: Nice macro for close up picture, quick start up, VERY compact, able to zoom while recording video.
Weakness: No live histogram like Sony camera, which is a very helpful feature.
I have owned 4 digital cameras and this is the best of them all. Its macro feature (1.2 inches) beats Sony's digital camera, which cannot focus even at 2-3 inches. I love taking pictures of flowers and bugs so this is a very nice upgrade for me.
I go hiking a lot and the size is best for hiking, I don't feel it in my pocket most of the time, which could be a bad thing if I lost it and don't know about it ;) Overall, this is one of the best for a super compact camera. I have Sony digicam and played with a friend's Pentax Optio but I like this Canon SD400 the most, highly recommended.
By the way, get one or two extra batteries off eBay (generic batteries are cheap at eBay), this camera is so easy to use that you will take more pictures than you usually would. Extra batteries will come in handy.
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Reply by member: Steve Wall
I have owned a few digcams as well.
Yes, it is a good idea to get one or two extra batteries, but NOT generic! Live and learn. Everytime I have purchased generic nicads or liths, I have lamented it. They don't have as long a charge and die earlier than original manufacturer brand. [I mean die, like you have to throw them away, $$$$$!] Not much fun when you are hiking or in a rural area and have no way to get a new battery. After all, these are propritory batteries, not AA or AAA you can grab at Costco or w.
Strengths: Very compact, gives high-quality pictures and video, easy to use, fast processing.
Weakness: Digital macro mode and low lighting shooting, commom with many digital cameras, needs a bit more effort for good results. Panoramic function still in early development stage
Awesome camera! Can't say enough about it. EXCELLENT picture/video/sound quality, which is the most important factor for me. Very easy to use - from navigating through menus, loading pictures to computer, to actually taking pictures. The size/wt and quick processing makes the sd400 a pleasure to work with and taking superb pictures painless. The different picture modes are really fun to try and the given manual modes are great for those beginning to learn photography. I take it everywhere! The camera is worth every dollar I paid for it!
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TopStrengths: Compact size, Large 2-inch LCD, picture quality
Weakness: You have to buy SD card as the included one is only 16MB
I had few of those digital camera(s), and I think this is the best among them, for its compact size, I can have in my pocket, picture quality is perfect, with my Sandisk Ultra II 1GB SD card, I can have endless quality photos for sharing and printing as well.
Highly recommended , Thanks to Canon
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TopStrengths: Compact design, USB 2.0 Hi-Speed support, superb image quality, large 2-inch LCD, loads of cool features, intuitive controls. Finally a Canon with Shooting Modes and some manuel control.
Weakness: Included SD memory size is only 16MB, weak flash--poor shooting in low light conditions, tendency for red eye.
First of all, you really have to hold this camera in your hands to realize how small it is. I have been an amateur photographer for many years, mostly with film and recently with Digital SLRs. I wanted a small camera that I could take anywhere--without having to lug around my 6MP digital SLR. I researched a lot, using websites and calling camera shops for recommendations. Based on their recommendations, I decided to purchase the Canon SD400 over the Nikon Coolpix 5900. The SD400 is a great camera, whether in manual mode or as a point-and-shoot in the auto mode.
I also purchased a Sandisk Ultra II 1GB SD memory card, because the supplied 16MB card only holds about 4 to 5 pictures at the best quality. I'd also recommend purchasing a camera case; just make sure that the case is made for the smaller SD400-and not for the larger Canon S Series.
Furthermore, I'd also recommend an LCD protector, since the large 2" LCD makes up a large part of the back of the camera. The protectors are cheap and could save you hours of heartache, if the LCD were to get scratched.
Overall this is a great little camera, and if you don't mind a weak flash--which for the size of the camera, is to be expected--everything else is perfect! FULLY RECOMMENDED!
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TopStrengths: Extremely compact and solid camera. Easy to use and faster than my Canon S50. Shoots great pictures.
Weakness: Flash could be brighter. No RAW/TIFF modes.
I got this camera as a compact alternative to my Canon S50, which I love. The features are nearly identical on both cameras. The SD400's menus are easier to navigate around and the button control layout is better than on the S50. The picture and sound quality in the movie mode on this camera is the best I've seen and it is comparable to my Sony Mini DV camcorder. I've owned and used several digital cameras and through my experience, Canon's cameras deliver the best picture quality. The SD400 is a great ultra compact with solid metal body construction that does not feel fragile in your hands. It does suffer from the common setbacks that plague cameras of its size such as red-eye and a less than spectacular flash, but the positives far outweigh the negatives. I highly recommend this camera if you're looking for an ultra compact to carry around with you everywhere without taking up too much space.
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TopStrengths: small size, ease of use, quality of build.
Weakness: kind of looks like everything was just hung on the side, unlike many other, sleeker, cameras. manual flash is kind of a pain to get figured out.
this camera is great. it is so small, but has so many features crammed into it. it seems nicer than the canon s400 it replaces, and the picture quality seems better as well. after two months i am still learning cool new stuff it can do, but at the same time it works well as a point and shoot camera with no experience. my only complaint is with the flash. there is no direct way to get the flash to always be on with a photo. you have to go into the manual mode for that (as far as i have learned). simply: all of my friends want to check it out and play with it...all want to buy it. good camera at a good price.
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TopStrengths: Very compact and easy to use. The camera fits in my pockets, and works very well in all shooting modes. Dominates other digital cameras I have used and seen.
Weakness: Puny memory card comes with purchase. The relatively affordable price of the camera offsets the extra expense of a larger memory card.
I own the larger powershot G3 digital camera, and the little SD 400 takes the same quality photos as its much bigger brother. Picture quality is excellent and the its small size allows me to take the camera just about anywhere. Features are easy to learn and functionality is simplistic. Again, the memory card is notta, but for $400 all-in you can have a 5 mb camera with a 1GB high speed flash card. The combination is perfect for vacations/outings where you do not want to lug a large camera. Excellent overall buy.
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TopStrengths: Compact. I can carry it everywhere. Easy to use. Picture quality is excellent.
Weakness: Battery lock and lens cover are made with plastic it seems. Also the mode change button seems flemsy. Hope these parts doesn't break down on me with use....
This is my second digital camera from Canon. I previously had S100. It was definitely time for an upgrade. I was pretty happy with S100 with the size and ease of use, so I decided to shop for another Canon. At first I was really impressed with the size of SD400. They are so tiny. I can carry in my pocket easily. What's the use of camera if you don't have them to take the shots of precious moments. Also it's very easy to use. My wife needs something she can just point and shoot. This camera seems to do the trick very well. I had issue with short battery life with my previous Canon, but hopefully according to some reviews that it didn't seems like a big deal, but we'll see. I haven't used my camera that long to find out yet. I've learn to deal with it before so that I can have tiny camera with me all the time. I recommend this product.
67% of readers found this review helpful. Did you find it helpful or unhelpful?
TopStrengths: great camera
Weakness: nothing is weakneses
Wow, this is so small digital camera, the quality is great, the battery is last long, the speed is fast. I had S500 but compare to this SD400, I like SD400 more.
44% of readers found this review helpful. Did you find it helpful or unhelpful?
TopStrengths: Compact size, intuitive controls, large screen, rechargable battery
Weakness: Shutter button must be pressed very firmly
I have been very pleased with this camera thus far. It is small enough to fit in shirt pockets, but takes very high-quality photos. The digital picture options included are impressive. I like the rechargeable battery; other cameras seem to quickly use battery power. The screen is unusually large for a camera this size. The only thing I have found disappointing is the shutter button. I have missed some good pictures because I, apparently, didn't press the button hard or long enough. The camera seemed to have taken a picture, but none was taken. Otherwise, I highly recommend this camera.
83% of readers found this review helpful. Did you find it helpful or unhelpful?
TopHere's a tip for ya......
After framing your picture on the screen or in the viewfinder, press down the button partially and then when you're ready to take the picture press it again. This will eliminate the shutter delay.
Strengths: Small size, great movie mode, good controls, large LCD.
Weakness: Average image quality, reports of LCD breaking.
The SD400 is very small -- you have to hold it in your hands to really appreciate its miniscule dimensions. Unfortunately, nothing comes for free, and the price that's paid for this enhanced portability is quality. The photos are still pretty darn nice, and for most people it'll be fine. But if you're into nitpicking and agonizing over even the slightest defects, you might want to stay away from this camera. There's definite corner softness and purple fringing issues, to name two that come to mind right away. Still, its size and versatility makes the SD400 a fine choice for casual photographers.
75% of readers found this review helpful. Did you find it helpful or unhelpful?
TopStrengths: Very small yet reliable. Good for normal consumer photography. I also like the big LCD screen in respect to the size of the camera. I especially like the design of the camera.
Weakness: So far none. I am no hardcore phoographer so I don't need to use all the functions. Maybe the only thing is that it is so small that I feel like I am going to drop it if my hands slip.
One of the best cameras I have ever used. Very small, sleek, stylish and reliable. Lot of people comment on the size and are impressed with the quality and functionality of the camera. I definitely recommend purchasing this camera, if you are just looking for a digital camera to take with you to your vacation. I researched a lot, went into lot of electronic/camera shops and asked for recommendations. And after all the research and opinions (from camera fanatics), I decided on purchasing the SD400.
83% of readers found this review helpful. Did you find it helpful or unhelpful?
TopStrengths: compact, hitek,beautiful style, price is right and a famous respect name CANON .
Weakness: battery .
The next generation of this type of point &shoot camera is
merge pictures, self-time on tripod ...
I am sure this camera will go into professional class of world camera.
67% of readers found this review helpful. Did you find it helpful or unhelpful?
TopStrengths: Inexpensive, small, compact, very easy to use. love the zoom capability. Very high quality video recording.
Weakness: none so far.
Took a lot of picture. Very impress with the clarity and detail of the picture. I was able to see even the dust in one of the object that I took in my house. The video recording is superb. With my one gig card(highly reccomended, get scandisk ultra 2), I can take some long sequence. I did a lot of research before buying this. I don't have any regret so far. It's the most compact and highest quality 5mp camera that I aware of. Get it.
81% of readers found this review helpful. Did you find it helpful or unhelpful?
TopStrengths: Great quality pictures once on a computer. Good battery life. Lots of photo options. It's the perfect size to keep in your pocket.
Weakness: Small memory card. Flimsy plastic battery/memory card door. The LCD screen can seem blury. No estimated battery time display, so you have to guess when the battery will die.
I have taken a photography class and know a bit about cameras, this thing has all the goodies and more that most 600 dollar film cameras have. It's very programable in the manual mode, and it's also a great point-and-shoot camera for amateurs in the auto mode. The supplied stitch assist software is wonderful for taking panoramic shots.
I would suggest getting a much larger memory card. The 16 mb card supplied is way too small, it only holds about 4 to 5 pictures of the best quality. I got a 1gb card for a good deal and it is great, this card can hold about 350 pictures at the best quality. If you buy a new memory card make sure it's rated fast enough (50X to 60X or at least 3mb/s write speed will do) to record the high quality video that the camera can capture. I also suggest buying a case for the camera, although not necessary, it would be great to protect this expensive little thing.
86% of readers found this review helpful. Did you find it helpful or unhelpful?
TopStrengths: Small and easy to carry.
I chose this camera mainly because it is tiny light and I can bring it with me all the time. I haven't used this camera for a long time since I just got this camera a week ago. But I love this camera so far. Before Canon sd400,I was using Sony's digital cameras and I was accustomed to use Sony. When I got my new Canon digital camera, I found that it's very easy to use even to the person who has never used Canon before. I strongly recommended this camera.
81% of readers found this review helpful. Did you find it helpful or unhelpful?
TopStrengths: Small size, light. Excellent pictures and Canon cameras provide a great user experience. They seem to have fixed the 'first picture' problem that plagued earlier Canon models.
Weakness: None known.
Canon cameras provide the best user experience in the digital marketplace. This Canon is so small and light with excellent picture quality. Canon seems to have addressed my biggest complaint about my original Canon digital camera which was the '1st picture delay' where it took a long time to take the first picture when you turned it on. I would highly recommend this camera and the Canon camera line to anyone.
78% of readers found this review helpful. Did you find it helpful or unhelpful?
TopStrengths: Compact size. Unbelievable pictures.
Weakness: Comes with only 16MB SD card.
This is by far the best digital camera I have owned. It takes incredible pictures for its compact size. This is truly a camera you can take anywhere. The 2" LCD is great but I'd recommend an LCD protector.
76% of readers found this review helpful. Did you find it helpful or unhelpful?
TopStrengths: o Small & compact without being "too small to handle" o Actual useable movie mode!
Weakness: o Lame flash! Need manual power control for the flash. o So-so focusing in low light (ie. flash) conditions
I am the previous owner of a Canon S50 and a user of my girlfriends SD300. I very much appreciate the size advantage this camera has to my somewhat bulky/heavy S50. It fits in my pocket w/out my even knowing its there! The downside to this, of course, is that it might easily get scratched. I am considering getting LCD protectors. I don't consider this a negative, however, as at least it means I am bring my camera w/ me everywhere!
The movie mode has been vastly improved over the SD300. You can actually take clips that are longer than 30-seconds. Make the feature at least useful! I also appreciate the USB2.0 download speed, as this will interface w/ my iPod Photo better (via the Ipod Camera Connector).
The only real negative I have on this camera is the lack of power control for the flash. It does a pretty bad job in low-light conditions, and ends up w/ out of focus images. When you are too close, the flash is too strong. When you are further away, the flash is negligible. There should be a manual mode to "power-up" or "power-down" the flash based on the shooting condition. I very much miss this feature from my S50, as I used it all the time. I wonder if there are other ultra-compact digital cameras (for different makers) that had a decent flash??
But overall, I am very happy w/ the camera. I would recommend it to anybody that want to take everyday pics w/ friends or even on quickie vacation. I still think I would go w/ my bulkier SLR for a "real vacation", however. In either case, the quality of the pictures is fantastic!! And 5MB is more than enough for what I need (and what most people need).
88% of readers found this review helpful. Did you find it helpful or unhelpful?
TopThanks for the review. I too have a Canon S50 and was thinking of getting a smaller, more portable digital camera for more everyday use. It was helpful to read a review comparing the SD400 to a camera I am familar w/. I was also thinking 5MB is more muscle than I need, but for the price and the overall good reviews, it sounds worth it. Thx!
Thanks for your comments. Rereading my review above, I should note a few things. Even though the camera has USB2.0, this proved worthless w/ the ipod, as that is dog slow! However, the usb2.0 comes in handy when downloading to my computer. I seem to recall not being able to zoom in the movie mode for the S50. There was also limitation of 30second clips, but that *may* have only been an issue of the speed of the CF card. I am not sure. For the sd400, if you don't use a fast SD card, you also will be limited to short movies! So choose your SD card wisely! I have a 60x, and can shoot for a loooong time (easily 20-30 minutes). ANd you can zoom while shooting. I still am unhappy w/ the flash. It just does a lousy job, and the lack of power control is frustrating. That is the only feature of the S50 I miss! I take pictures for ebay auctions, and always have to take many pics just to get one w/ out flash glare. But to be fair, all of the compact canon cameras (SD400/450/500/550) do not have power control for the flash. Oh, and one other thing. I would recommend buying the sd450 instead of the sd400, because it has a larger LCD screen.
Strengths: Compact size. Support USB2.0. Great movie mode. Great picture quality. Large 2-inch LCD.
Weakness: Included SD memory size is only 16MB.
This is the best compact-size digital camera I ever used. The picture quality is superb. With USB2.0 high speed interface. A very large 2-inch LCD. Supports 640*480 movie mode. To use 640*480 high resolution movie mode, you have to get a high speed SD card. I bought a Sandisk Ultra II 1GB SD memory, no any problem. A very great product from Canon, highly recommend!
89% of readers found this review helpful. Did you find it helpful or unhelpful?
TopStrengths: Compact, Loads of features, good macro and movie mode, superb image quality in it's class
Weakness: The flash is a bit weak, but that's perfectly Ok for it's size.
I owned a couple of canon powershot cameras in the past (A80 and S410), this clearly beats them in almost every aspect. I really loved my old cameras, but I can't resist to applaud this camera..
It's so compact yet such wonderful.. I was considering SD500 but I bought this for it's size and feel in hand. The only better thing in SD500 is it has a better flash and 7 meg pixs, but it is definitely a little bigger than this camera..
I really love the new additions in this camera, like enhanced movie mode, my color features, instant replay and the extra pixels :)
I would definitely recommend this camera to anyone looking for an excellent compact point and shoot camera with loads of great features.
pal :)
87% of readers found this review helpful. Did you find it helpful or unhelpful?
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Canon Powershot Sd400 / Ixus 50 Digital Camera receives an overall TopTenREVIEWS score of 2.61 out of 4.00. It is ranked the #217 Compact digital camera of all time. The overall rating represents an intelligent balance of features, value as a function of price to features, and a summary of reviews from a variety of sources. The TopTen REVIEWS' formula gives a picture of important consumer...
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The Canon SD400 has shrunk to resemble the Digital Elph from years ago. The design is clean enough, but now seems to lack sparkle compared to its sexier competitors. The two-inch LCD is a bit small, but there is always the trusty optical viewfinder to fall back on. This 5-MP camera makes up for its staid design with great-looking photos and simple controls. Video looks great as well, with the...
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The DIGIC II processor helps the Canon SD 400 to achieve its high performance. Despite its refined techniques the SD 400 remains a digital camera with ease of use. A great design and a superb finishing touch in combination with the 5 Megapixel resolution and 3x optical zoom gives you the ultimate package. Already a classy digital camera! Read our review now at LetsGoDigital Camera Magazine.
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Canon's ELPH line of digital cameras has consistently offered good image quality, user-friendly design, and excellent build quality, and the new Canon PowerShot SD400 is no exception. When it comes to picture taking, while actual exposure control remains automatic, the ability to adjust ISO, White Balance, and access longer shutter times significantly increases the camera's shooting range. Thanks...
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The 5-megapixel Canon PowerShot SD400 is 1.5 ounces lighter than the 7.1-megapixel SD500, but otherwise offers very similar features. Like its slightly larger sibling, the SD400 is a pocketable point-and-shooter that takes excellent pictures.
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Overall I recommend the SD400, but if you can swing it, I'd buy the SD500 instead. While it's a bit bigger, it takes better pictures and has both a more powerful flash and a longer-lasting battery.
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Great Little Camera
Strengths: Perfect little camera for the camera-challenged. Nice burst mode and very little wait time between pictures
Weakness: Small battery life
This camera is great. This camera has been in our family for about 3 years now with no problems whatsoever. I would recommend this for someone who like the thought of a digital camera without all of the confusing extras. This is definitely not for the camera-savy guru, but nice for grandma or Aunt Ethel or a mom with two kids that just wants to take nice family photos.
60% of readers found this review helpful. Did you find it helpful or unhelpful?