What Digital Compact?

[waheikedawn]

I know its probably a question thats been asked a thousand times but I've gone mad trying to read all the differing online reviews. I just want something that I can take anywhere without worrying about it. I suppose it will mainly be used for social occasions where the DSLR wont be given an outing and so picture quality/image sharpness and poss wide angle take priority over zoom or looks or anything like that.

My searches suggest the Fujifilm F70EXR and Panasonic DMC FS30 are a good bet while the Canon Ixus 130 receives mixed reviews. I'm a bit of a Canon fan having been an early digital Ixus owner but Panasonic seem to be king of the compact at the moment. All are available for just over £100.

...Or part of me thinks I should go for a more mickey mouse number available for around £50-60 because if I'm going to be disappointed with image quality I may aswell pay less for it:
Canon Powershot A495 or Casio Z35??

Any thoughts, experiences or advice would be appreciated.
TIA.

Edited by waheikedawn on Thursday 30th December 01:17

[Jollyclub]

I just bought a Ricoh GRD III as a compact take anywhere beater.

Pretty happy with it tbh. The lack of zoom doesn't bother me. had a lumix DMC-Lx1 beforehand, and never used the zoom. the fixed focal length 28mm seems pretty sharp, and fast-ish for low light.

Also compared to the Lumix, it feels a lot tougher.. All metal body, with rubber grip makes it feel more like a Glock, than the Lumix 'old nokia' plasticky feeling.