don't know which is better camera - canon sd880is, canon sd1100is or Sony DSC W150?

TF,
I would eliminate the SD1100IS as it uses an older DIGIC III processing formula in camera. That has been replaced with the DIGIC IV in the SD880 and newer models. So leave the DIGIC III and move toward the better technology for low light and higher ISO improvements.

That brings you to the Canon SD880 or the Sony W150. The Sony has some advantages in features, zoom, creativity, and movie mode. I wouldn't let the difference between the 8MP and the 10MP be a determining factor at all in deciding between the W150 and SD880. You'll see no difference in detail or photo quality between the 8 and the 10MP.

Menu systems will be different, so if you have used either a Sony or a Canon camera before, you will know which menu system you like. Memory storage cards will also be different. Sony will use its proprietary memory sticks and memory stick PRO, which can be costlier. Canon will use more generic SD cards and will cost less. So that may be a factor, or not.

All in all both cameras are excellent pocket cameras. The Sony just squeezes in more features and a better zoom than the Canon. It's a tough call, but the Sony gives you a little more and very few disadvantages over the SD880.

thanks Steve, but in terms of picture quality between the two, which would be better? I've read reviews on both and it seems neither are good in low light. Is that true?

Thank you Steve for all the valuable infomation. You were very helpful. I probably will stick with the Canon.

I like the Canon line and personally use both a SD990 and a SD880 along with a DSLR. The sd880 is a great pocket, slim camera and takes great wide angle and good color and contrast. Indoors it has a good flash (almost too bright, so you have to not be too close to the subject) and it also handles most casual shots well. The SD990 is my go to camera when I need a small camera (a little thicker than the SD880), that can handle more variety with some manual control, and exposure compensation control so I don't "white out" faces with the flash. It handles lower light better than the SD880. When needing the best possible pictures, or longer range telephoto work, I'll use my Nikon D50 with an 18-200mm VR lens setup. It weighs in a total of 4 lbs, but I get great 11x14 enlargements, can shoot low/no light shots with little or no noise, and it takes an external flash that can literally light up a subject 60 feet away. So each camera has a role, and a lot will depend on what kind of shooting you want to do most. Since you've asked about pocket cameras, I'm assuming that compact, pocketable, and have with you at all times are high on your list of needs. The SD880 is the smallest Canon that I would go with. If you want something better, the SD990is is a fantastic camera and my personal go to camera much of the time. Happy photos!