4.1The Canon PowerShot SD970 IS succeeds the SD890 IS with a larger, higher-resolution display, an increase from 10 to 12.1 megapixels,720p video recording and an upgrade to the DIGIC 4 processor. Based on hands-on evaluation of a pre-production model at PMA, the SD970 IS looks like a capable little camera with the right mix of features for many consumers, though the $380 price seems high.
The Canon PowerShot SD970 IS is small and cute, with subtle curves that many will find attractive. Although not quite as small as the super-thin ultra-compacts, this camera will still fit easily into most pockets. The 3-inch display on the back has not only been increased in size from its predecessor, but also boasts double the resolution.
The SD970 IS has subtle and stylish curves.
Front
On the front of the Canon PowerShot SD970 IS you see the closed 5x optical zoom lens taking up the most space. Sitting right along the edge of the lens is an autofocus assist lamp, while just above and to the right of the lens is the built-in flash.
The SD970 IS sports a 5x optical zoom.
Back
On the back of the SD970 IS you see it's biggest upgrade, the 3-inch 461,000 dot LCD display. To the right of the display you see another change from its predecessor, the new arrangement of controls. In the center is a 4-way control with a rotating dial around it. Above and below are four triangular buttons. There's also a small LED indiator light on the back.
The 3-inch 461,000 dot LCD is a big upgrade.
Sides
The left side of the Canon PowerShot SD970 IS doesn't have any features, but on the right you'll find covers for the camera's two ports separated by a lanyard loop.
Two ports and a lanyard loop are found on the right side.
Top
On the top you'll find the expected shutter button, with a zoom control surrounding it. Just to the left is the power button and to the left of that is a three-way switch that moves between Auto, Standard and Movie capture. Just in front of the switch are what look like the camera's speaker and to the left is what is likely a pinhole microphone.
On the top are the shutter, power and mode buttons.
Bottom
The bottom of the SD970 IS has a metal tripod mount, which is centered under the lens, exactly what we like to see. To the left of that is a door that covers the battery and memory card slots.
We like the metal tripod mount centered on the lens.
