Value
The Canon TX1’s value is in the eyes of the beholder. If you’re looking for a compact digital camera with automated modes, a cheaper PowerShot would suit just fine. If you’re looking for a hybrid ultra-zoom camera that is still compact, there is some competition in the Panasonic TZ1 and TZ3 and Kodak V610. If you’re looking for a hybrid that snaps decent pictures and records high definition video, there are only a handful of competitors. There is a very similar Sanyo Xacti VPC-HD2 that was announced in January 2007, following up on the critically divided VPC-HD1. It snaps 7-megapixel images and records high definition video in the MPEG-4 format. It has a similar vertical design and even a 10x optical zoom lens. It does have a larger 2.2-inch LCD screen that folds out, and it can record longer 3-hour videos. The catch: the Sanyo HD2 costs $700. That makes the Canon PowerShot TX1’s price of $499 look amazingly affordable.

Who It’s For
Point-and-Shooters – These consumers will appreciate the automated modes and the hybrid capability of this model.

Budget Consumers – There aren’t many other cameras like the TX1. Sanyo makes a version that is much more expensive, so the Canon TX1 looks affordable. It’s much more affordable than buying a digital camera and a camcorder.

Gadget Freaks – This camera is a prime candidate for these consumers, who will appreciate such features as HD video and color swapping.

Manual Control Freaks – There aren’t many manual controls on the Canon PowerShot TX1, so these consumers may have to pass this by.

Pros/Serious Hobbyists – The TX1 could be a small backup camera for enthusiasts, but probably wouldn’t be their most expensive purchase.

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