| Likes |
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- Flip out LCD monitor with wide view
- Flash exposure compensation
- Only 10 MP compact cam with manual controls
- 4x optical zoom lens
- Manual controls
- Great movie mode
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| Dislikes |
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- High noise levels
- Slow start-up and operation
- Inaccurate viewfinder
- Only 115k on LCD
- Barrel distortion
- Heavy and clumsy camera body
- Expensive $399 price
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Conclusion
The PowerShot A640 has more pros than cons. It has a lot of resolution at 10 megapixels, but that won’t be necessary for most users of this camera. Point-and-shooters won’t need to create life-size prints since most will make small prints with an occasional enlargement. Believe it or not, the resolution isn’t what makes the A640 great; in fact, the resolution significantly hurts the camera's performance.
What makes the A640 a solid camera is that it allows beginners to develop their photography skills by graduating from the scene modes to the manual mode without needing to buy different cameras. A few of the A640’s highlights include a rotating 2.5-inch LCD screen that has a wide view, a built-in flash with adjustable power, easy to use control and mode dial interface, and in-camera editing for simple direct printing. The Canon A640 is a bit pricey with its $399 retail. Bargain hunters can go for its PowerShot companion, the A630, though. It has 8 megapixels with the same modes and many of the same features – for about fifty to a hundred dollars less. Considering that most point-and-shooters won’t create huge prints, the A630 may be a better buy. The Canon PowerShot A640 is still a good digital camera though – if you’ve got the cash.
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