Nikon S8100 Canon SD870 Canon 1400 Sample Images
Hi again. A bright sun finally shown yesterday. I took the S8100 out to play and came back and updated it's gallery. Here is my take. I think the S8100 is in some ways better than the Canon, Sony, Panasonic, Samsung, and Kodak cameras that I compared in the spring. The little SD1400 was not my favorite then and is not now . It is the camera that I have available for comparison. I give the Nikon the edge in IQ for still images taken in good light. The Canon focused faster and more reliably, especially in dim light. The Nikon's focus and exposure were horrible in the walking video. Headlights spoiled the Canons traffic video. All of the images were taken in auto mode at each cameras widest lens setting. Image stabilization was turned on. Continuous focus was used for video. I'm very surprised by the results, especially in video where I did a retake and checked the camera settings.
Two other cameras that I considered but rejected for my use were the Canon SD4500 and the Sony DSC-WX5. I do not understand why Canon would use a lens now that starts at 36mm. The Sony's controls were just too small. It was difficult to turn on even with my fingernail. I can wait a bit before my next trip so the S8500 will be returned. I will watch to see if Nikon releases a firmware fix for it's focus and exposure problems. If so, I will probably order another one. In the meantime I will be using my older Canon SD870.
Read MoreTwo other cameras that I considered but rejected for my use were the Canon SD4500 and the Sony DSC-WX5. I do not understand why Canon would use a lens now that starts at 36mm. The Sony's controls were just too small. It was difficult to turn on even with my fingernail. I can wait a bit before my next trip so the S8500 will be returned. I will watch to see if Nikon releases a firmware fix for it's focus and exposure problems. If so, I will probably order another one. In the meantime I will be using my older Canon SD870.