Camera Review: Canon PowerShot A700

Behold the new flagship of the Canon PowerShot A-Series: The PowerShot A700. This model incorporates all of the features included on the mid-level A540, plus much more.

New features in the A700 include 6-megapixel resolution along with a retractable 6x 35-210mm optical zoom. It also incorporates over 20 shooting modes from fully automatic completely manual to fit any photographic situation. In addition, the A700 is compatible with optional wide angle and telephoto lens converters, as well as a close-up lens and a wireless flash unit.

ISO equivalent speed ratings ranging from 80 to 800 with noticeably far less noise at ISO 400 than previous PowerShot models. The camera also features a huge 2.5-inch, 115k-pixel LCD color monitor, making it easier than ever to review captured images and navigate the limited in-camera image editing and retouching features.

The A700 is a just a tad bigger than the A540, but it can still fit in a large pocket. From an ergonmic point of view, it feels very comfortable in your hands. Like most models in the A-series, the controls are well placed throughout the body, all within the reach by either your thumb or index finger.

A full 6x optical zoom lens (35mm equivalent: 35-210mm) delivers sharp, bright results that get the most out of every pixel. In a first and major coup for a 6x optical zoom digital compact camera of this class, the PowerShot A700 features a real-image optical viewfinder, allowing quick framing and precise manual focusing without having to view the LCD.

The A700 also provides users the option of changing lenses: Optional wide (0.7x) and telephoto (1.75x) converter lenses definitely extend the focal length range. As a bonus, the A700 is also compatible with optional close-up lenses for detailed macro photography.