Need a good ultracompact, can't decide !

Hello. I have been trying to decide between a few ultracompact cameras. I have been looking at the Canon SD800 IS , the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX07,
and the Fuji Finepix F30. I wanted the camera to perform well in fairly low-light conditions. I also didn't want the shutter lag to be too bad. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Rob,

These are all great cameras, but for what you want to do, I would go with the Panasonic FX07. The high ISO range (100-3200), larger 7.2 MP resolution, and the image stabilization make it a great camera. As for the shutter lag, you'll find that in most lower light situations, but can combat it by holding the shutter button half way down to lock the camera's settings. In low light, you can also set the camera at ISO 3200 for a faster shutter speed, and the IS will help too. Good luck and happy shooting.

Andrew

Thanks very much for the reply. Does the Panasonic have better IS than the Canon? Which one is a better camera overall?

Rob,

As for the IS differences, I'm not completely sure. When deciding between these two, I would still go with the Panasonic FX07, and I currently own 3 Canon's.

Andrew

Go for the Panasonic.
Reasons -
1. Price is less than Canon for the same set or features.
2. Images are crisper.
3. Better features - IS, battery life.
4. This Canon doesn't support SDHC cards. Not sure at this point.
5. What else? My Pana is made in Japan. Great built quality and performance.
6. Plenty of settings to achieve good picture quality in all lightning conditions.

The SD800IS does support HC SD cards. The Panasonic is slightly cheaper, but the battery life is essentially the same, the IS of the Canon is better, and there are actually a few additional features on the SD800IS.

Now, if low-light is your main type of shooting, the Fuji 31FD is probably your best bet. But between the Panasonic and Canon, I'd choose the Canon.