For a while there we were beginning to think Canon had lost the plot. Last year its high-end IXUS models started to get a bit predictable, and some even got a bit dumpy-looking at one point. The IXUS 100 IS changes all that.
Think of a NumberBasic specifications arent anything new, with 12 megapixels and only a 3x optical zoom, plus a maximum wide-angle equivalent setting of 33mm when many rivals are sporting 28mm and wider. But basic specifications arent what this little marvel is about.
Dinky as you likeThe IXUS 100 is the smallest, slimmest IXUS weve ever seen. Its almost unbearably wee and cute, and the champagne-gold finish of our review model looked a treat. Photos dont show it but its significantly smaller in every dimension than most other IXUS models, and most other cameras on the market. Its closest in build to the Casio Exilim S12.
Its not quite as slim as the S12 but its not far off. The Exilim is 15mm thick, and according to our highly accurate plastic ruler the IXUS 100 is only a smidge over 17mm (Canons official figure is 18mm). And its actually smaller in width and height than the S12, at 87 x 54mm to the S12s 94 x 55mm. In other words, almost exactly credit-card size.
Dont drop itIn fact, with its lovely sucked-lozenge corners and svelte frame its so small we were afraid it might slip through our fingers. But unlike the S12, chunky fingers are no particular obstacle to using the IXUS, and the menu system is about as logical and easy to use as it gets.
Little extrasCanon is great at adding little extras that make you go ooooh! and in the IXUS 100 a lovely new touch is auto macro: bring the lens close to something and the animated mode indicator flips over all by itself to show the macro icon, and back again when you point it somewhere else. So you wont be left wondering why your friends in the pub look all blurry before you've even finished your pint.
Video And yes, theres 720p HD video at 30fps. You dont get the low-light quality of a dedicated camcorder but its way better than a mobile phone. The zoom remains active too, although its the digital variety so more zoom equals lower video quality, and autofocus doesnt work while youre recording.
Lovely shiny thingIts really, really hard not to love the IXUS 100 as soon as you get in your hand. Still-image quality is no better than lower-range models like the IXUS 80 costing 100 less, but for sheer tactile retail satisfaction, its just lovely.
Author:Dave Stevenson
Copyright 2009 Dennis Publishing All Rights Reserved.
Canon IXUS 100 IS