Canon PowerShot A720 IS

Résumé : The PowerShot A720 IS is a fine performer outdoors but has its faults in low light and it is a little pokey when you use the flash.

Points forts : 8MP ; 6x zoom with Optical Image Stabilization

Points faibles : So-so LCD screen ; noisy images in low light

Résumé : Announced in August 2007, the Canon PowerShot A720 IS is the third model in Canon's economic A-series to offer optical image stabilization. The A720 IS, the successor to last year's A710 IS, has some of the same specifications, including a 6x optical ...

Conclusion : There are a few sore spots for the point-and-shoot, however. At ISO 1600, the A720's highest sensitivity setting, noise is unreasonably high and dynamic range is low, which results in speckled images with limited tonal range. This setting is better ...

Résumé : We evaluate a camera's image quality using a series of scientific tests. The PowerShot A720 IS is one in a series of Canon cameras this year that take great-looking images. Our tests show the Canon A720 IS has extremely accurate color reproduction, ...

Conclusion : An optically stabilized lens, face detection, and strong performance, combined with good handling and a logical layout, make it easy to take nice-looking images with the A720 IS. Priced at less than $250, this PowerShot model offers proof that a ...

Résumé : Canon launched the PowerShot A720 IS with optical image stabilization in August 2007 as a full-featured camera at an economic price. The PowerShot A720 IS is the third model in Canon's entry-level A-series with image stabilization. In addition to ...

Points forts : Easy handing with ergonomic hand grip ; Optical Image Stabilization included in a budget camera ; 6x optical zoom lens and option to buy accessory lens converters for extended zoom ; Plenty of manual control ; Fantastic color accuracy ; White balance ...

Points faibles : Bulky body design ; High noise levels, especially at 800 and 1600 ISO ; Poor dynamic range above 80 ISO ; Annoying Playback mode switch ; Out-of-date, ugly menu system ; Slow burst rate ; Limited built-in editing functions

Résumé : If you are not looking for an ultra-compact the A720 IS could live up to your expectations with its nice images, stabilization, and 6x zoom. Only the absence of a wide angle may be cause for hesitation.