This is not an SLR, but there are times we all want a compact camera. The Powershot G11 is the sequel to— and a bit different from— the Powershot G10. The 10 megapixel sensor allows it to have improved high-ISO performance: up to ISO 3200 is available, whereas ISO 800 is probably the maximum usable option in normal situations, maybe 1600 in case of emergency. It is coupled with an excellent 28-140mm (35mm equivalent) f/2.8-4.5 aperture optically-stabilized lens which produces superb images. It has a large, 2.8-inch LCD and a reasonably strong built-in flash.

The G11 allows a lot of SLR type creative freedom: ISO is adjustable from 80 to 1600, evaluative and spot metering choices are available, as are programmable shooting modes with aperture and shutter speed priority, and exposure compensation is adjustable in 1/3 stop increments. Images can be captured in RAW mode or JPEG and in 16:9 widescreen format or native 4:3. It also includes a hot-shoe fully compatible with the Canon flash system.

Note: All of our cameras ship with one fully charged battery, instruction sheet, the battery charger, and a bag. Additionally, due to the license agreements, we cannot send the Canon software with the camera.