Nikon Coolpix L14 or Canon Powershot A470???

Question

Hi everyone, Please help me decide which camera to buy between Nikon Coolpix L14 and Canon Powershot A470. Both are great cameras in my opinion, and are really inexpensive. Both cameras have features unique to each other but I really need help! So nikon l14 is good because its CHEAP (99 bucks) and lasts long (1000 shots) and it has great design. But it lacks any image stabilization tech. Canon a470 on the other hand, has most of L14's features plus an image stabilization tech, and "a better face detection" and a way better macro mode with a price tag of just a bit over 130 bucks canadian But the battery life is average (400 shots). So ya which one should I buy both are good and I can only get one. So thank you for your help in advance.

Answer 1

Last time I knew, the A470 did not have the image stabilization so I checked 3 reviews and all of them agree that it does not have image stabilization.

Also for the amount of pictures the Nikon claims it takes, is when they are using the high end Lithium battery. I noticed most reviews for the Canon shows using a rechargable battery, which will not last as long as Lithium batteries. It would take approx. two charges to meet the life of the Lithium battery. As you may find out, those batteries are expensive! If you use rechargable batteries in the Nikon, it will cut the amount of pictures down about 1/2.

Face detection in a couple reviews with the Canon is known to be problematic. They seem to show that it causes a good amount of lag time. They recommend using the center focus, and then moving the camera to the desired spot.

I really think you are paying more for a better lens with the Canon, there for it is worth it. Something you need to consider, will you really be using the macro mode within a CM of the object. Remember you'll need a tri-pod most the time when your that close. However in good daylight outdoor pictures, within the 4 inches, you will get some awesome macro shots with the Canon.

Also consider, while it lacks in the amount of scene select options, the Canon has a little bit more manual programing features, thus giving you a little bit more flexibility too!

If your the point and shooter, the Nikon is a great little camera.

But if you like taking close tight shots, and you like playing with setting, the Canon is bank for the buck!