Expert: John Oliverio - 1/5/2004

Question
Hi John,

We were very close to buying a digital camera and had narrowed it down to the 3 mp Sony DSCP72 or the 5 mp Sony DSCP92. We were debating the merits of spending an extra $75 or so to go from 3 to 5 mp. On a separate note, we then found out that these cameras onlyu have a 3x zoom and have been told that it is very limiting. My questions are as follows:

1. What's your opinion on 3 mp vs. 5 mp? Does it make that much of a difference for a casual user (mostly for family photos0?

2. How do you feel about a 3x zoom? Are there models from Sony or others that offer a greater zoom?

3. How do you feel about the Sony models I mentioned? Do you any other brands/models in the $300-$400 price range that you recommend?

Thanks...

Answer
Brian,

Howdy.  Thanks for the questions.

1. More pixels could make all the difference in the world if you want to make big prints or crop a lot on smaller prints.  It really has nothing to do with being a "casual" user.  So, if you don't plan to print larger than 5x7, stick with the 3mp.

2. 3X zoom is the most common focal length.  There are more cameras that have that than anything else.  Most folks would like a larger zoom, but seldom really need it.  There are sony models with 4x, 5x and 7x zooms.  But they are each in a higher class.  The 4x runs about $600 (last time I checked) and is called the V1.  The 5x is around $700 is called the 717.  And the 7x is $1000 and is called the 828.  (the 828 has 8mp!)

3.  I'm personally rather fond of Nikon.  The Coolpix 3100 and 4300 each do a great job.  Sony is a good company.  But I really don't care much for their less expensive models.  Their high-end stuff is great.

John