G3 or wait for A80?

[noonin]

Hi,

I'm new to all this, and am considering these two cameras as my first digital camera. I would use it for macro shooting my work, as well as an all-around camera for landscape shots, general family stuff, etc. I have no experience whatsoever with a SLR, all my photo experience is with a Pentax IQZoom 928, so I would probably use automatic settings for alot of my use, at least at first.

My dilemma is track down a G3 or wait for the A80. All the great deals on the G3 at my large local retailers are sold out, leaving the only place to find one is at speciality retailers (around $599, out of my budget), or online (not totally against, but prefer not to on principle, as well as warranty, return complications).

I don't have a problem waiting for the A80, but wonder if I will kick myself because of the great features of the G3, namely:

1. the nice lens. Wider zoom-WA range and app.

2. Larger and higher res. LCD (BTW, did anyone else notice the resolution specs for the A80 LCD vs. the A70 look like the A80 has LESS res?)
3. Remote

4. RAW format. I don't know if it's something I'll use, but sounds useful for handling large files

5. Made in Japan- I've often felt M.I.J. has better quality control than China of Milasia

I'm probably missing something, but off the top, those are the pluses of the G3 for me.

Disadvantages of the G3 compared to the A80

1. Price (duh!) It (the G3) is more camera than I need, so I hate to pay for some advanced features I may never use.

2. Shot times- looked to me that, at least the A70, had less shutter lag and faster powerup times

3. Lens barrel in viewfinder- Real annoying! I don't know yet if I can completely rely on the LCD for all shot composition (I realize all Digicams seem to have a fairly inaccurate viewfinder anyway).

Again, I may be missing something, but those are the minuses I thought of.

Please help me with a little perspective.
Thanks!

 

[JoeSal129362]

You may not find a G3 for $419 (find a CircuitCity) but there are lots of places where you can get it for way less that $599. If you have to order go with BH (509) or check Beach camera

Hi,
I'm new to all this, and am considering these two cameras as my
first digital camera. I would use it for macro shooting my work, as
well as an all-around camera for landscape shots, general family
stuff, etc. I have no experience whatsoever with a SLR, all my
photo experience is with a Pentax IQZoom 928, so I would probably
use automatic settings for alot of my use, at least at first.

My dilemma is track down a G3 or wait for the A80. All the great
deals on the G3 at my large local retailers are sold out, leaving
the only place to find one is at speciality retailers (around $599,
out of my budget), or online (not totally against, but prefer not
to on principle, as well as warranty, return complications).

I don't have a problem waiting for the A80, but wonder if I will
kick myself because of the great features of the G3, namely:

1. the nice lens. Wider zoom-WA range and app.
2. Larger and higher res. LCD (BTW, did anyone else notice the
resolution specs for the A80 LCD vs. the A70 look like the A80 has
LESS res?)
3. Remote
4. RAW format. I don't know if it's something I'll use, but sounds
useful for handling large files
5. Made in Japan- I've often felt M.I.J. has better quality control
than China of Milasia

I'm probably missing something, but off the top, those are the
pluses of the G3 for me.

Disadvantages of the G3 compared to the A80

1. Price (duh!) It (the G3) is more camera than I need, so I hate
to pay for some advanced features I may never use.
2. Shot times- looked to me that, at least the A70, had less
shutter lag and faster powerup times
3. Lens barrel in viewfinder- Real annoying! I don't know yet if I
can completely rely on the LCD for all shot composition (I realize
all Digicams seem to have a fairly inaccurate viewfinder anyway).

Again, I may be missing something, but those are the minuses I
thought of.

Please help me with a little perspective.
Thanks!

 

[noonin]

You may not find a G3 for $419 (find a CircuitCity) but there are
lots of places where you can get it for way less that $599. If you
have to order go with BH (509) or check Beach camera
Thanks Joey,

I did check out Beach. If I decide to take a chance with the Net, they are one of my first choices. Unfortunately, I think CC is sold out.

Hi,
I'm new to all this, and am considering these two cameras as my
first digital camera. I would use it for macro shooting my work, as
well as an all-around camera for landscape shots, general family
stuff, etc. I have no experience whatsoever with a SLR, all my
photo experience is with a Pentax IQZoom 928, so I would probably
use automatic settings for alot of my use, at least at first.

My dilemma is track down a G3 or wait for the A80. All the great
deals on the G3 at my large local retailers are sold out, leaving
the only place to find one is at speciality retailers (around $599,
out of my budget), or online (not totally against, but prefer not
to on principle, as well as warranty, return complications).

I don't have a problem waiting for the A80, but wonder if I will
kick myself because of the great features of the G3, namely:

1. the nice lens. Wider zoom-WA range and app.
2. Larger and higher res. LCD (BTW, did anyone else notice the
resolution specs for the A80 LCD vs. the A70 look like the A80 has
LESS res?)
3. Remote
4. RAW format. I don't know if it's something I'll use, but sounds
useful for handling large files
5. Made in Japan- I've often felt M.I.J. has better quality control
than China of Milasia

I'm probably missing something, but off the top, those are the
pluses of the G3 for me.

Disadvantages of the G3 compared to the A80

1. Price (duh!) It (the G3) is more camera than I need, so I hate
to pay for some advanced features I may never use.
2. Shot times- looked to me that, at least the A70, had less
shutter lag and faster powerup times
3. Lens barrel in viewfinder- Real annoying! I don't know yet if I
can completely rely on the LCD for all shot composition (I realize
all Digicams seem to have a fairly inaccurate viewfinder anyway).

Again, I may be missing something, but those are the minuses I
thought of.

Please help me with a little perspective.
Thanks!

 

[CHIA]

You can get the G3 from Dell today with a stackable coupn for $504 delivered.....just an option......

CHIA


Dell Home - 1 Day Stackable Coupon, Aug 22

Ends Today. Dell Home Software & Peripherals has 10% off most items. Free Shipping $99+, no tax in most areas.

Stackable (combinable with other discounts) $35 off $400 coupon code: 59C4ED7B03DB Exp 11pm CT 8/22 (excluding the Dell Axim X5 handheld, Dell Projector, Dell A940 Printer, and Dell P1500 Printer)

 

[maxss9005]

If i were you ,i'd go for the G3.It has far more features than the A80.you'll get battery pack and remote accessories with G3.where as the A80 is $100 less ,sugggested retail price $499us.you'll end up buying charger and rechargeable battery's.Don't waste your time go for the G3 if it retails for $599 us.It works out to be the same price wise,and less features for the A80.

Hi,
I'm new to all this, and am considering these two cameras as my
first digital camera. I would use it for macro shooting my work, as
well as an all-around camera for landscape shots, general family
stuff, etc. I have no experience whatsoever with a SLR, all my
photo experience is with a Pentax IQZoom 928, so I would probably
use automatic settings for alot of my use, at least at first.

My dilemma is track down a G3 or wait for the A80. All the great
deals on the G3 at my large local retailers are sold out, leaving
the only place to find one is at speciality retailers (around $599,
out of my budget), or online (not totally against, but prefer not
to on principle, as well as warranty, return complications).

I don't have a problem waiting for the A80, but wonder if I will
kick myself because of the great features of the G3, namely:

1. the nice lens. Wider zoom-WA range and app.
2. Larger and higher res. LCD (BTW, did anyone else notice the
resolution specs for the A80 LCD vs. the A70 look like the A80 has
LESS res?)
3. Remote
4. RAW format. I don't know if it's something I'll use, but sounds
useful for handling large files
5. Made in Japan- I've often felt M.I.J. has better quality control
than China of Milasia

I'm probably missing something, but off the top, those are the
pluses of the G3 for me.

Disadvantages of the G3 compared to the A80

1. Price (duh!) It (the G3) is more camera than I need, so I hate
to pay for some advanced features I may never use.
2. Shot times- looked to me that, at least the A70, had less
shutter lag and faster powerup times
3. Lens barrel in viewfinder- Real annoying! I don't know yet if I
can completely rely on the LCD for all shot composition (I realize
all Digicams seem to have a fairly inaccurate viewfinder anyway).

Again, I may be missing something, but those are the minuses I
thought of.

Please help me with a little perspective.
Thanks!

 

[Amber Shaw]

Hi,
I'm new to all this, and am considering these two cameras as my
first digital camera. I would use it for macro shooting my work, as
well as an all-around camera for landscape shots, general family
stuff, etc. > pluses of the G3 for me.

Hi Robert,

I compared both of these cameras too but ended up buying the G3. I got it for a decent price and it's a great camera. I have been using it primarily for Macro shots but the clarity and sharpness of the photos this camera is capable of is incredible. You almost have to work at getting a bad shot and I like the option of being able to attach different lenses.

On the negative side..yes, there is some shutter lag which can be frustrating at times.

The lens blocking part of the viewfinder is somewhat annoying although I very rarely use the VF so it's not a big deal to me but it is definetely a design flaw.
The swivelling LCD screen is VERY helpful though.

Overall, it is a great camera and despite the above problems, I really have no regrets about buying the G3. It all depends on what is important to you and whether you want to put up with these flaws to enjoy what is otherwise a fantastic camera for the money.

Good luck with your decision !

Amber

 

[Don Fraser]

Hi,
I'm new to all this, and am considering these two cameras as my
first digital camera. I would use it for macro shooting my work, as
well as an all-around camera for landscape shots, general family
stuff, etc. > pluses of the G3 for me.

I have a G3 but will probably trade it in for an A80. The G3 is a great camera but tends to stay on the shelf too much because of its weight. I'll give up the extra features of the G3 to have a camera that is a bit more pocketable, and that I will carry around more often as a consequence.

 

[David Miller]

Costco has the G3 for $599 but it includes extra battery and the Case. Not the best deal, but it is legitimate and they have an open return policy (as in, if you ever want to return it, they will take it back)

Dave

Hi,
I'm new to all this, and am considering these two cameras as my
first digital camera. I would use it for macro shooting my work, as
well as an all-around camera for landscape shots, general family
stuff, etc. > pluses of the G3 for me.

I have a G3 but will probably trade it in for an A80. The G3 is a
great camera but tends to stay on the shelf too much because of its
weight. I'll give up the extra features of the G3 to have a camera
that is a bit more pocketable, and that I will carry around more
often as a consequence.

--
Thanks

Dave

 

[JoeSal129362]

Don,

Yeh if you wear cargo pants. I have an A20 that the kids use and it was never a camera that fit in any pockets. Comparing the A20 which looks like the A70/A80 and it is only slightly smaller than my G3 and weighs about a third less. The real pain with the A20 on an outing was always bringing extra AA's.

My take, if you really are on the fence, get a G3 now for $420 wait till the A80's have been out 6 months and their price drops by 50% and get it then. Of course by then you will want to upgrade not downgrade so another good problem......

Hi,
I'm new to all this, and am considering these two cameras as my
first digital camera. I would use it for macro shooting my work, as
well as an all-around camera for landscape shots, general family
stuff, etc. > pluses of the G3 for me.

I have a G3 but will probably trade it in for an A80. The G3 is a
great camera but tends to stay on the shelf too much because of its
weight. I'll give up the extra features of the G3 to have a camera
that is a bit more pocketable, and that I will carry around more
often as a consequence.

 

[Amber Shaw]

I have a G3 but will probably trade it in for an A80. The G3 is a
great camera but tends to stay on the shelf too much because of its
weight. I'll give up the extra features of the G3 to have a camera
that is a bit more pocketable, and that I will carry around more
often as a consequence.

The weight ?? The G3 was never intended as a pocket camera but even so, I don't consider it heavy at all. I take it with me everywhere, especially when I go on my daily cycling treks (30-50 Kilometers a day - I always like having my camera with me to catch unexpected shots) and don't notice the weight at all. The extra features are fantastic and there is NO way I would give up those features just for the sake of a saving a few extra ounces.

A few extra bonuses I like about this camera - the incredible battery life per charge, ability to add different lenses, the swivel LCD and the remote. The G3 is well worth every penny IMHO.

Amber

 

[Fil Beza]

Hi,
I'm new to all this, and am considering these two cameras as my
first digital camera. I would use it for macro shooting my work, as
well as an all-around camera for landscape shots, general family
stuff, etc. > pluses of the G3 for me.

I have a G3 but will probably trade it in for an A80. The G3 is a
great camera but tends to stay on the shelf too much because of its
weight. I'll give up the extra features of the G3 to have a camera
that is a bit more pocketable, and that I will carry around more
often as a consequence.

--

Same reason I opted for the A70.

Fil

 

[maxss9005]

another thing i forgot to tell you is that A80 is the lower versionof G3,whereas G3 has tons of features that A80 does not tend to have.G3 may be a little heavier and bulky camera compared to the A80,but when you're spending close enough money to A80 ,make sure your money is worth every dime and nickel.A80 will retail for $499 us.$750cdn suggested retail.you could get G3 for an extra $100 bucks.

Hi,
I'm new to all this, and am considering these two cameras as my
first digital camera. I would use it for macro shooting my work, as
well as an all-around camera for landscape shots, general family
stuff, etc. > pluses of the G3 for me.

I have a G3 but will probably trade it in for an A80. The G3 is a
great camera but tends to stay on the shelf too much because of its
weight. I'll give up the extra features of the G3 to have a camera
that is a bit more pocketable, and that I will carry around more
often as a consequence.

--

Same reason I opted for the A70.

Fil

 

[Kirsten Salve]

Hello,

I am new to digital also, but I have used my old minolta slr for years. I am not a pro, but a lowly newbie......but as a newbie I have tried both cameras.

The G3 is a great camera, but for me not a family camera. I used my sisters' for a few days and the still shots were fantastic! and the macros were great also. But again my candid family shots, were, not... It is slow to focus and I could not get any shots of the kids playing, without it being blurry. I tried all the things my sister said to do, and forum members also, but to no avail, for me. I found my in-laws little A70 much better for taking pictures at a family gathering. I got clear shots (in AV-ISO 50) of the kids playing baseball, swimming and running thru the sprinklers. (The fast setting not as good, but not blurry). And I am going to get a A80, not the G3, because I feel it is a better all around family camera for me. And, it has the manual settings to grow with.

I am not happy about the LCD being downgraded, but hopefully Canon will wake up before final production and see the light regarding this. Looking at all the A70 pictures posted, I do think the A70 or A80(especially- with the 1/1.8 CCD and 4 MP) is a good choice for a first digital camera.
Kirsten

Hi,
I'm new to all this, and am considering these two cameras as my
first digital camera. I would use it for macro shooting my work, as
well as an all-around camera for landscape shots, general family
stuff, etc. I have no experience whatsoever with a SLR, all my
photo experience is with a Pentax IQZoom 928, so I would probably
use automatic settings for alot of my use, at least at first.

 

[oab]

A few things to look at.

1) The G3 is a good camera for the beginner (my wife) and the experimental/gadget freak (me). So it has lots of things that may make you glad you got it. Yes the not too often mentioned remote is one of them.

2) The veiwfinder is a little annoying at first but remember you still have 3 good corners to use so you get used to it fast. I don't even notice it any more.

3) The G3 can still be found at some really good prices. I ordered from beach camera and was blown away by their speed and awsome costomer service. I would definately order the same camera from them in a heartbeat.

4) You have to really decide what is in your budget (we'd all love to afford a dslr) and what you are really going to need from the camera. I have not used the a70 or those but it was my probable 2nd choice after the g3 from the things I read and heard about it. My reason for not was it wasn't a 4 MP but you now get that with the a80.

5) If you can play with both of them that should help.

enjoy, oab

 

[graph (g3)]

A series will always perform like an Aseries. G series is a whole new level. G3 vs A80? ofcourse a G3! having a hotshoe is crucial to good photography. get a g3 and start taking pictures!

 

[Mike Hunt]

Some things you left out, off the top of my head...

Slower lens (requires more light)
Probably slightly less sharp optics
Less telephoto
No ND filter
Less ergonomic
No command dial
Fewer dedicated buttons
No flash hot shoe
No secondary LCD data display
No AE Lock
No AE bracketing
Number of available shutter speeds & apertures?
Less convenient battery charging

Hi,
I'm new to all this, and am considering these two cameras as my
first digital camera. I would use it for macro shooting my work, as
well as an all-around camera for landscape shots, general family
stuff, etc. I have no experience whatsoever with a SLR, all my
photo experience is with a Pentax IQZoom 928, so I would probably
use automatic settings for alot of my use, at least at first.

My dilemma is track down a G3 or wait for the A80. All the great
deals on the G3 at my large local retailers are sold out, leaving
the only place to find one is at speciality retailers (around $599,
out of my budget), or online (not totally against, but prefer not
to on principle, as well as warranty, return complications).

I don't have a problem waiting for the A80, but wonder if I will
kick myself because of the great features of the G3, namely:

1. the nice lens. Wider zoom-WA range and app.
2. Larger and higher res. LCD (BTW, did anyone else notice the
resolution specs for the A80 LCD vs. the A70 look like the A80 has
LESS res?)
3. Remote
4. RAW format. I don't know if it's something I'll use, but sounds
useful for handling large files
5. Made in Japan- I've often felt M.I.J. has better quality control
than China of Milasia

I'm probably missing something, but off the top, those are the
pluses of the G3 for me.

Disadvantages of the G3 compared to the A80

1. Price (duh!) It (the G3) is more camera than I need, so I hate
to pay for some advanced features I may never use.
2. Shot times- looked to me that, at least the A70, had less
shutter lag and faster powerup times
3. Lens barrel in viewfinder- Real annoying! I don't know yet if I
can completely rely on the LCD for all shot composition (I realize
all Digicams seem to have a fairly inaccurate viewfinder anyway).

Again, I may be missing something, but those are the minuses I
thought of.

Please help me with a little perspective.
Thanks!

 

[Mike Hunt]

Provided you don't mind the likelihood that Dell will notify you a week or two after your order that the camera is sold out and on back order, and that by the time you finally receive the camera, it will likely be available for less money elsewhere.

Dell service sucks.

You can get the G3 from Dell today with a stackable coupn for $504
delivered.....just an option......

CHIA


Dell Home - 1 Day Stackable Coupon, Aug 22
Ends Today. Dell Home Software & Peripherals has 10% off most
items. Free Shipping $99+, no tax in most areas.

Stackable (combinable with other discounts) $35 off $400 coupon
code: 59C4ED7B03DB Exp 11pm CT 8/22 (excluding the Dell Axim X5
handheld, Dell Projector, Dell A940 Printer, and Dell P1500 Printer)

 

[Mike Hunt]

I compared both of these cameras too but ended up buying the G3.
I like the option of being able
to attach different lenses.

The A80 has same feature.

On the negative side..yes, there is some shutter lag which can be
frustrating at times.

Unlikely to be any better in A80.

The lens blocking part of the viewfinder is somewhat annoying
although I very rarely use the VF so it's not a big deal to me but
it is definetely a design flaw.

There's no blockage in the A80?

The swivelling LCD screen is VERY helpful though.

A80 has it too, though smaller.

It all depends on what
is important to you and whether you want to put up with these flaws
to enjoy what is otherwise a fantastic camera for the money.

I can't think of any flaws in the G3 that don't also exist in the A80.

 

[Mike Hunt]

I have a G3 but will probably trade it in for an A80. The G3 is a
great camera but tends to stay on the shelf too much because of its
weight. I'll give up the extra features of the G3 to have a camera
that is a bit more pocketable, and that I will carry around more
often as a consequence.

The weight ?? The G3 was never intended as a pocket camera but even
so, I don't consider it heavy at all. I take it with me everywhere,
especially when I go on my daily cycling treks (30-50 Kilometers a
day - I always like having my camera with me to catch unexpected
shots) and don't notice the weight at all. The extra features are
fantastic and there is NO way I would give up those features just
for the sake of a saving a few extra ounces.

A few extra bonuses I like about this camera - the incredible
battery life per charge, ability to add different lenses, the
swivel LCD and the remote. The G3 is well worth every penny IMHO.

I agree with your conclusion, but in the interest of accuracy, the A80 is likely to have even better battery life than the G3, ans it also accepts accessory lenses.

 

[Sharif]

The lens blocking part of the viewfinder is somewhat annoying
although I very rarely use the VF so it's not a big deal to me but
it is definetely a design flaw.

There's no blockage in the A80?

The lens barrel wasn't blocking the optical viewfinder in the A70. I believe the A80 housing is similar to the A70 in that respect.

Size (and less so weight) appears to be the biggest advantage of the A80 versus the G3/G5 in my eyes. I am also curious what the A80 lens will make of the image sensor which appears to be the same as in the G3.

If size (and price) doesn't matter then the G3/G5 certainly should the superior camera in every respect (I don't expect wonders on the image processing front). The low resolution of the A80 LCD is really a shame.

But as a small and lightweight compagnion to a 10D or 300D the A80 looks interesting to me.

Regards,
alfalfa

--
http://members.chello.at/alfalfa/portfolio.htm