Canon Ixus 40

Our Editor’s Summary of the Canon Ixus 40 mini digital camera is one of the best articles you will find on the Inernet about this sought after portable camera. Review Centre's editor brings you a summary of Review Centre's independent consumer reviews plus product specification, news and online media reviews all in one easy to read page.

Review Centre Reviews

• Our reviewers love the Canon Ixus 40 - celebrating its superb image quality, ease of use and portability.
• Battery life was one issue of concern but users recommend buying a spare to remedy that so it may not be a major problem.
• One reviewer was a little disappointed with night time photography although five different flash settings does offer versatility in this direction.

The Big Picture

Launched in September 2004 the stainless steel Canon Ixus 40 is a tiny simple to use camera which has proved very popular.

The stylish Digital IXUS 40 benefited from a breakthrough in lens science, making it one of the smallest cameras from Canon to feature 3x optical zoom.

Therefore, you get very good image quality in a compact size.

The Ixis 40 isn't awash with functions but is famed for its ease of use. However, you do get six scene modes, video playback and interesting options such as 100MB of free web space on the Canon Image Gateway internet link-up.

The 4.0 megapixels should also leave you with plenty of options for printing decent images up to A3.

The Ixus 40 has a reputation for fast start up and shut down and snappy focus.

The 9-point Artificial Intelligence Auto Focus (AiAF) system relies upon nine sensors in the centre of the field of view which keeps images nice and sharp.

The built-in DIGIC II processor gives the camera the extra boost by handling all the complex data required for high image quality.

Main Specifications

• 4.0 Megapixel CCD
• 2.0-inch color TFT monitor
• 35-105mm (equiv.) F2.8 - 4.9, 3x optical zoom
• 640 x 480 movies at 30fps
• Print/Share button
• Fast Frame Rate movies (320x240 pixels @ 60fps)
• Voice annotation (sound memos)
• Custom white balance
• Spot, center-weighted and evaluative metering
• DIGIC II and ISAPS
• 9-point AIAF
• Six scene modes
• UA lens for ultra slim body & 3x optical zoom
• Long VGA movie clips at 30fps
• Pictbridge/Canon Direct Print compatible
• Canon Image Gateway

Did You Know?

Technology analyst Understanding & Solutions now expects UK sales of digital cameras to reach 6.42million during 2005.

Online Reviews

Pocket-lint.co.uk:

"..small, simple to use and stylish.."

Digital Imaging Websites Association says despite its ultra small dimensions performance was maintained on a high quality level:

..a very user-friendly digital camera..."

Photo Review Australia:

"A great go-anywhere shoot-anytime camera." Editor's Choice.

Conclusion

Like any slim camera you are paying a wedge of your money for style and size but with the Ixus 40 you do get some good technology thrown in from one of the top manufacturers.

If you want ease of use, indoor and out, and above average image quality this is a decent option in its price range.