Question about digi cameras and how many pixels I need?

Question

I am looking at an ELph. It comes in two models: a 6 pixel and 7.1 pixel. Is it worth the extra $$$ for one more pixel?

Answer 1

Sometimes the 7.1 megapixel cameras have more functions on them, like wifi capability and anti-shake. Pixels come mainly into play when enlarging photographs and Nikon says their 6.0 can enlarge photo's to 16X20. So if the cameras you are looking at have the same capabilities I would go with the 6.0 megapixels.

Answer 2

Since you said "Elph" and compare a 6 MP and 7.1 MP, I'll assume that you are comparing the SD700-IS and SD800-IS.

There are several differences beyond just one million more pixels.

The SD800-IS has a slightly wider angle lens, but Petra tells us that the 28 mm falls apart if you use it full wide, so that's not a real advantage.

The SD700-IS has a 140 mm (equiv) maximum zoom and the SD800-IS only has 105 mm (equiv). This is quite a difference. I don't know if it can be overcome by the higher pixel count enabling tighter cropping, though.

In all the research and answering I've done here this season, I've decided that I want to buy myself the SD700-IS. I am more attracted by the 140 mm (equiv) than the "extra" MP.

Go here and read the review as well as the owner opinions on each camera.

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/compare_post.asp?method=sidebyside&cameras=canon_sd700is%2Ccanon_sd800is&show=all

Go here and read the reviews and see sample images. I've included the SD600, just in case that is the camera you are interested in, but it's not such a direct comparision without the "IS."

The SD600: http://www.steves-digicams.com/2006_reviews/sd600.html
The SD700-IS: http://www.steves-digicams.com/2006_reviews/sd700.html
The SD800-IS: http://www.steves-digicams.com/2006_reviews/sd800.html

Answer 3

Depends On How Much Money Is Involved, A 7.1MP Does Make A Difference Compared To A 6MP, Slightly Clearer And Brighter Picture. If You Have Intentions To Use It Around The House And With Friends, I Think A 6MP Is Good. If Your Intentions Is Serious Photography Or Schooling Related, Then It Is Worth Going To A 7.1MP.

Answer 4

If that is the only difference in the camera, choose the 6. It is enough for 8X10 enlargement. Most people only want 4 inch prints anyway so you are way ahead of what you need with 6 MP.

The larger the number of Megapixels, the less (high quality) pictures you can store on a memory card and the longer they will take to upload onto your computer.

Don't go megapixel crazy.

Answer 5

Not really. I think the difference in price is more for other features, like Image Stabilizers and rechargeable power supplies.
Those things are worth paying extra for.
I think the SD700-IS is a great buy and I see it on sale everywhere this week.

Answer 6

Not if you're only using it for fun and family photos. If you're a professional, yes, but then you wouldn't be asking this.

And I hope you meant megapixels, not pixels.