canon ixus 860 IS - or - Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ5 - or Canon G9

Depends on your usage really, the Panasonic has a fantastic zoom which makes it incredibly versatile for such a small camera however it is physically bigger than the Canon which slips into the pocket better.

John

panasonic - i have tz1 - 10x zoom is so versatile

horses for courses but having owned a few cameras, it is the panasonic's versatility (shoots very decent video too) that impresses me most. i can't see myself ever needing another compact camera as it does all i will ever need it to do.

i've also got a d-slr for full on photography, but the panasonic is a spot on little-ish camera.

tz2 here for £125

http://www.digico.co.uk/model.asp?De...s&ModelID=1426

The Panasonic would be my choice of the two for the same reason although I ended up with an LX2 simply as I preferred its manual control. Just habit I guess though, I think this aspect of the TZ is blown out of proportion.

John

As others have said it really depends on usage. The Canon is smaller so easy to take on a night out with friends to get candid shots. It would not be so good if you went to a zoo and wanted to use something with a zoom, the Panasonic has this option, its so very versatile. I have used both and i have to say the Panasonic feels better built and the menu system was far easier to use, but this is just my view.

Panasonic doesn't have a viewfinder, making it unusable in strong sunlight

If you switch the LCD mode to sunlight it ramps up the display brightness making it usable in sunlight, this is available on the LX2 and people I've lent the camera to find this works well. I assume the TZ offers the same option.

John

thanks for all the input so far........

I was going to use the camera as an all rounder - but it will prob mostly be used to take pictures of friends and family etc. But I also need a good macro to take pictures of my missus jewellery for her new business and also Ive been working on some lego minifigures.

Im really liking the Canon G9 but I cant quite bring myself to spend even more (an extra £86 over the Panasonic). But on paper and reading the reviews it has all the manual controls whilst remaining compact. Its something I could grow into and my Dad is a semi pro photographer so he could teach me some techniques. It looks very well made and I like the scroll wheel.

I know I'll buy cheaper and wish I spent more. To be honest I am moving more towards the Panasonic...but Im being drawn towards the G9.
I may write off the Canon IXUS as the zoom isnt going to be enough.

i'd go for canon really

Go for the G9... you won't regret it... I have one along with a Canon digital SLR and although the G9 is bigger than my previous ixus it is a fabulous camera.

I'm more than happy to take it out when I don't want to carry the biggy with aqll its lenses.

However, if you want a small compact that you can fit in your pocket the G9 isn't for you...