The Bottom Line
With a suggested price of about $180, the Canon PowerShot A1000IS digital camera isn't going to offer a host of high-end features. However, what my Canon A1000IS review shows is that it does offer an excellent all-around feature set, making it a good choice for beginning photographers seeking a point-and-shoot model. With a higher-quality LCD screen, the A1000IS would receive a better rating.
Pros
- Image stabilization technology works very well
- Plenty of resolution for most users
- Overall response times good for model in this price range
- Optical viewfinder or LCD is available for framing photos
- Design is good with well-placed dials and buttons
Cons
- LCD sharpness is below average
- LCD can be difficult to see in bright sunlight
- A little bigger zoom lens would be nice
Description
- Resolution: 10.0 megapixels
- Optical zoom: 4X
- LCD: 2.5-inch, 115,000 pixels
- Maximum image size: 3648x2736
- Battery: 2 AA-size
- Dimensions: 3.76 x 2.46 x 1.22 inches
- Weight: 5.47 oz. (without battery or memory card)
- Image sensor: 1/2.3-inch CCD
Guide Review - Canon PowerShot A1000IS Review
Image Quality
With 10.0 megapixels, the A1000IS offers plenty of resolution for most beginning and intermediate photographers. You can shoot at several different resolution levels, depending on how you will use the photo.
Image quality was above average in all areas for a model in this price range. Outdoor photos were crisp and bright, as they are with most point-and-shoot models. The quality of the A1000IS's indoor photos was a pleasant surprise, with realistic colors and decent exposure. Many low-priced digital cameras struggle in low-light conditions, but the A1000IS did a good job.
Performance
Response times for the A1000IS are above average for a sub-$200 digital camera. You can shoot your first photo about two seconds after pressing the power button, meaning you might miss a few spontaneous photos. You'll notice a little shutter lag, especially in low-light conditions, but it's not a serious problem. You can usually shoot another photo 1.5-2 seconds after the last photo.
The A1000IS's 4X optical zoom lens is on the low end compared to many entry-level models. If you're going to shoot a lot of nature photos or long-distance sports photos, you'll want to look elsewhere.
Design
I liked its two-tone design, but the look of the A1000IS won't appeal to everyone. When looking at the front of the digital camera, the left one-third of the body is available in four colors: Blue, brown, gray, and purple. The right two-thirds of the body is silver.
The camera is only 1.22 inches thick, and it offers a small handgrip for your right hand. The A1000IS isn't quite as thin and small as some models, but it will fit easily in a pocket or purse. As with any digital camera, try this model before you buy it to ensure it fits your hands and grip.
Unfortunately, the LCD is the weak link with the A1000IS. It's not sharp or bright enough.
