2 cameras, $500 total - Need suggestions

[Raghu]

Looking to buy 2 cameras for $500 in all. Need 1 bridge camera and 1 ultracompact.

Im looking at around $300 for the bridge and $200 for the ultracompact. If this is not good, then suggest a different split.

Features Im looking for in bridge camera
1) Good zoom for still and videos
2) 720p video at the least
3) Fast continuous shooting
4) RAW

I looked into some of the bridge cameras and came up with a few options. Need feedback to help me pick one.

1) Nikon P100
2) Canon SX30 IS
3) Fuji HS10
4) Panasonic FZ100, kinda out of budget. But willing to buy it if its really that good.

I have no idea on the ultracompact, so Im open to suggestions. The requirements are simple.

1) As small and thin as possible.
2) Not much concerned about zoom, 3-4x might be good.
3) Fast turn on and capture. Gonna be used in places where the opportunity might disappear quickly.
4) Good low light performance

I see that BSI sensors are having fast captures and good low light IQ. Any ultracompacts that use such a sensor?

TIA!

 

[Sp12]

Some of your requirements on the ultracompact are at odds with eachother, not to mention your budget.

 

[episodic]

For the ultra compact spend 349 and get the samsung tl500

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/samsungtl500/

 

[lykaon78]

Sony's DSC-TX1 might meet your ultracompact needs. B&H has it for $199.

Steve's Digicams likes it.
http://www.steves-digicams.com/camera-reviews/sony/dsc-tx1/steves-conclusion-55.html

 

[ed21x]

For the ultra compact spend 349 and get the samsung tl500

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/samsungtl500/

i was about to suggest the tl350 instead. it depends on whether you prefer:

1. larger CCD sensor

or

2. smaller but more sensitive cmos sensor

 

[sixone]

Bridge cam: SX30 will give you fast continuous shooting, or RAW. Unfortunately, it won't do both at the same time. If neither are negotiable, this isn't the cam for you.

I haven't tried the others, so I can't compare.

 

[ElFenix]

For the ultra compact spend 349 and get the samsung tl500

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/samsungtl500/

that thing is bigger than an lx3, it's about the opposite of ultracompact.


ultracompacts do not have good low light ability. use a flash.

 

[technek]

$500 is a little expensive for camera dont you think..

 

[speedy2]

Go used and get more bang for your buck. Especially on a budget like that.