Canon Powershot A720 IS

The Canon PowerShot A720 IS is based around the previous PowerShot A710 IS model, and a 6x optical zoom lens -- an equivalent of 35 to 210mm, making the A720 excellent for all-purpose photography. It also includes a high resolution eight-megapixel sensor, more than enough for tack-sharp 11 x 14-inch prints with some cropping. Although the resolution has been increased from the prior A710 model, the Canon A720 IS offers an ISO range that's been extended at the top end for an equivalent of ISO 80 to 1,600 -- plenty for indoor low-light shots.

The Canon PowerShot A720 stores its images on SD/SDHC memory cards, with a not-so-generous 16MB included in the product bundle. A USB 2.0 Hi-Speed computer connection provides for speedy downloads, fast enough that most users will find no need for a separate card reader. There's also NTSC/PAL video connectivity. Power comes from two AA batteries, with disposable alkalines in the product bundle.

The overall style of the A720 IS is very similar to most of the other models in the range. The body is made from plastic, but the build quality is up to Canon's usual high standard. It does emit a few creaks when given a good squeeze and there are a few areas on the body that do flex slightly, but it feels reasonably robust, and the fit and finish of the controls and other external features is very good. The battery/card hatch has a metal hinge, and the rubber-like plug covering the access ports on the left of the body fits securely. The tripod bush is plastic, and is located right at the far end of the base plate, which could cause a few problems, but at least it means you can open the hatch when the camera is fitted to a tripod. The camera is somewhat larger than most pocket compacts, measuring 97.3 x 67.0 x 41.9 mm, and weighs around 250g including the pair of AA batteries that supply it with power, so it'll take up a lot of room in your pocket.