Looking for new point and shoot

[iamloco724]

Hi I am looking for a new point and shoot, I will mainly be using it at wrestling events not just big arena shows but small local shows so lighting situation will vary greatly.



I would like an optical zoom of 18x or higher, battery has to be pretty decent also replaceable batteries should be affordable so I can stock up on extra. The form factor should be preferably on the compact side.



Thats basically it of course it should be quick, I wouldnt mind it also having wifi but not a deal breaker

Budget would be around $350, any recommendations?

 

[CuriousMike]

"variable lighting", "arena", "18x zoom" --- ugh.

I'm not sure what your expectations are for quality - you can find an 18x zoom camera in this price range, but their indoor abilities are going to give you smudgey photos.

You recently missed out on a Canon refurb deal with a 75-300 that would have been good for what you're after except the "compact side."
You could still pick up one of the kits for < $250, and add a 75-300 for another $50(used) to $200 (new). (I'd look used/refurb)


You might look at this thread, and watch the Canon site and see if it pops back up again.

http://forums.anandtech.com/showthread.php?t=2455623

 

[fralexandr]

most of the travel zooms of the same rough model year are going to be pretty similar. The 1/2.3" sensor is pretty meh for image quality. The problem with high zoom and point and shoot is you're going to get a small sensor with meh low light performance. No high zoom pocketable point and shoot exists with a larger sensor.

the canon g3x is the only point and shoot/non-interchangeable lens camera i know of with a large sensor and 18x+ zoom lens. It is not pocketable and is pretty expensive (~$900). Might as well get a micro 4/3 camera at that price and size range.

If you're set on a point and shoot that's reasonably pocketable and has 18x zoom, might as well go for something like the canon sx600 on amazon for $150 (12/12 only).
http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0...4f-4703-8d7a-f8ba396f3b4a&pf_rd_i=13514623011

review of the sx600
http://www.photographyblog.com/reviews/canon_powershot_sx600_hs_review/

 

[iamloco724]

What do you think of these two

Canon Powershot SX710 or the Nikon Coolpix S9900

I am coming from a Sony HX-20V, So anything that is an improvement on quality would be fine with me it has some issues and isnt worth repairing which is why I am looking for a new one

 

[jtvang125]

If you're ok with the IQ from the Sony then you'll be fine with either one of those. They have the same sized sensor and a slow zoom lens.

If you didn't require at least 18x zoom I'll recommend a used/refurb Sony rx100.

 

[rudimaes]

The SX710 or S9900 are not bad, but the Panasonic ZS50 (TZ70) or Sony HX90V, both 30x zoom en small are a little better. The Panasonic ZS50 (TZ70) is a little better than the others, in lower light.
Rudi

 

[Gooberlx2]

Panasonic ZS40 is like $200 at Costco online right now.