Upgrading the point and shoot, down to two cameras, which is "better"

[PhillipT]

I have 70 bucks in Best Buy giftcards, and it's just enough to order a nice, new point and shoot for the daily stuff from the BestBuy outlet. My 4 year oldish Canon A540 has served very well (And was my 1st real decent camera), but it's tired, and a bit worse for wear. If I'm not mistaken, it had rolled over the counter at 9,999 shots, and my newest photo is #1169... I've used it for quite some time!

So I'm down to the Canon A480 (A level below the old A540, in the Canon hierarchy, but the hardware is superior), and the GE A1250.

So, here's sample shots for the Canon: Canon Powershot-A480 Review: Sample Photos

And for the GE:
Ge E1250tw Review: Sample Photos

I almost have to side with the GE in a few shots. Granted, it would be nice if there was a pair of photos with the same lighting, but it does pretty damn good.

The main difference between them is the Canon is 5 bucks more expensive, 2 mp short (not very noticeable it seems), and a refurb (which I'm always leery of).

Any suggestions for other models to look at, or any keen eyes see a superior camera in those photos?


edit:: I now see that the sample photos are from the E1250, though they share similar specs, so maybe it's comparable.

[mmuhlenkamp]

Honestly, there's so many point 'n shoots out there it's going to be hard to say which one is better, especially in this price range. I don't think you can go too wrong with either, see what features are different and if either makes it or breaks it for you, I doubt the image quality is going to differ much between the two. Try them out in the store, see which feels better and operates better for you (controls, menu style).

Good luck.

[j1mmyj4m]

At $70, I'd probably just flip a coin. :)

[PhillipT]

muhllenkamp, I agree, which is why I have the two sample picture links. Though, with more staring at pictures, it seems the Canon edges out a head a little. It lacks features, but the CHKD hack software takes care of that.