Peter G

Opinion: This camera is a GEM!

This is the second digital camera I have owned (but I have tried many more). Canon has managed to put big camera quality in a pocket camera. My pros/cons and ratings are against other P&S digicams.

1: Image Quality.
Amazing for the size of camera. I don't think there is another camera this small that can match the quality, I have examined multiple thousands of images on DPreview in the last few years. I think you would have to move to top of the line cameras like the Canon G3 to get better. I shot back to back with an S40 and found the S400 both sharper and cleaner.

2: Handling.
Fast. This camera is snappy, I am impressed with focus speed, but I am comparing to other digital cameras, perhaps others less happy are comparing to something else.

3: Control.
Surprisingly able. Three metering modes, exposure compensation, histogram, independant exposure and focus lock. There should be little problem setting the focus and exposure for ANY situation. To get a pseudo manual mode, lock exposure and then adjust at will with the exp compensation while observing the LCD.

4: LCD.
Awesome, visible in just about any condition. The best I have seen. 10x better than the one on my Nikon 950.

5: Construction
A Jewel of engineering. Awesome metal bodied construction. Great fit and finish. It just feels right.

Cons:

5: Flash.
As in most compacts the flash is weak. I would look for something bigger and more powerful if flash photography is your main usage. Actually look to a camera that is made to take an external flash like the G3.

6: Lack of manual controls.
There is no issue setting proper exposure, but if you want absolute control, you will need to look elsewhere.

7: Focus assist light not that effective.
This has little to do with the alignment and more to do with it being too weak. I shut it off, as it is more a distraction than a usefull feature.

Overall I think this is a dynamite camera. If you want a small camera look no further. Image quality comparable to the big guns. A highpoint for size and quality.