When it comes to digital cameras under $200, two popular options that often come to mind are the Canon PowerShot ELPH 190 and the Sony DSC-W800. Both of these compact point-and-shoot cameras offer a range of features that make them ideal for casual photography enthusiasts. In this comparison, we'll delve into the details of each camera to help you decide which one is best suited for your needs.
Design and Build
The Canon PowerShot ELPH 190 has a sleek and stylish design, with a slim body that measures just 1.2 inches in thickness. It weighs approximately 4.8 ounces, making it easy to slip into a pocket or purse. The camera's exterior is made of plastic, but it feels sturdy and well-built.
The Sony DSC-W800, on the other hand, has a slightly more rugged design, with a thicker body that measures 1.4 inches in thickness. It weighs around 5.3 ounces, which is still relatively lightweight. The camera's exterior is also made of plastic, but it has a more textured feel to it, providing a better grip.
Image Quality
Both cameras feature a 20-megapixel CCD sensor, which provides excellent image quality for their class. However, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 190 has a slightly wider aperture range (f/3.2-6.9) compared to the Sony DSC-W800 (f/3.2-7.9). This gives the Canon a slight edge in terms of low-light performance.
In terms of image stabilization, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 190 features optical image stabilization, which helps to reduce camera shake and blur. The Sony DSC-W800, on the other hand, uses electronic image stabilization, which is not as effective but still helps to reduce camera shake.
Zoom and Lens
The Canon PowerShot ELPH 190 has a 10x optical zoom lens, which provides a focal length range of 24-240mm. The Sony DSC-W800, on the other hand, has a 5x optical zoom lens with a focal length range of 26-130mm. While the Canon's longer zoom range is certainly an advantage, it's worth noting that the Sony's lens is slightly wider at the wide end.
Video Capabilities
Both cameras can record video in HD (720p) resolution, but the Canon PowerShot ELPH 190 has a slight edge in terms of frame rate, offering 30fps compared to the Sony DSC-W800's 25fps. However, the Sony DSC-W800 has a more advanced video mode, with options for interval shooting and motion detection.
Other Features
Both cameras have a range of features that make them easy to use, including automatic scene detection, face detection, and red-eye reduction. The Canon PowerShot ELPH 190 also has a built-in Wi-Fi connectivity option, which allows you to transfer images to your smartphone or tablet using the Camera Connect app.
The Sony DSC-W800, on the other hand, has a more advanced feature set, including a Sweep Panorama mode and a Picture Effect mode that offers a range of creative filters. It also has a built-in flash, which is useful for filling in shadows in low-light situations.
Conclusion
When it comes to digital cameras under $200, both the Canon PowerShot ELPH 190 and the Sony DSC-W800 offer excellent value for money. The Canon's longer zoom range and optical image stabilization make it a great choice for those who want to capture distant subjects or shoot in low-light conditions. However, the Sony's more advanced feature set and wider lens make it a great option for those who want more creative control over their images.
Ultimately, the decision between these two cameras will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you're looking for a camera with a long zoom range and excellent image quality, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 190 may be the better choice. But if you're looking for a camera with a more advanced feature set and a wider lens, the Sony DSC-W800 is definitely worth considering.
