Canon PowerShot A640

Photographers who want the flexibility of digital SLRs but crave the ease and price tag of compact digitals should like the Canon Powershot A640. The ability to accept accessory lenses offer extra flexibility over standard compact digicams, and 10 megapixel resolution can produce high quality images. DCResource counted the conversion lens capability and included underwater case among some of the A640’s stronger features. Full manual controls and the ability to control the camera via computer also pleased. Conversely, redeye posed a problem and burst mode failed to thrill CNET. CNET did love the A640’s swiveling LCD display, finding it especially useful for shooting in odd configurations, such as those overhead shots at the stadium. An optical viewfinder allows pictures to be composed in the classic way.

DCResource notes that while the A640’s 2.5" display is larger than its predecessor, resolution is still 115,000, meaning less clarity overall in the display image. However, they did like the fact that viewability was good in both bright outdoor conditions and dim indoor lighting. Image quality is good, overall, due to its excellent resolution. CNET found that it picked up fine details nicely, and saw little evidence of distortion or fringing. However, all three reviewers found noise issues even as low as ISO 400. While images captured at 400 were usable, ISO 800 shots were not. At lower ISOs, though, image quality was decent, but colors were a bit muted and desaturated, a bit surprising from Canon, who normally errs on the side of oversaturation. Vignetting also tends to be a problem, even in normal shooting conditions. Overall, the A640 fares decently against its competitors, but for its price tag, some previous models may prove better options. In fact, DC resource feels the only reasons to purchase the A640 over its siblings would be if you need large prints that require high resolutions, especially if you’ll be shooting in conditions where ISO 100 is suitable.