Verdict:
The A80 uses a similar design to Canon's earlier 3-megapixel A70 model. That camera was striking for its price and sophistication, and the advanced exposure options it offered rivalled those of far more expensive PowerShot models. The A80 adds a fold-out swivelling LCD and 4-megapixel resolution to produce an even more tempting package.
The extra resolution offered by the A80's 4-megapixel CCD is well worth having - particularly for more adventurous photographers who want to produce bigger enlargements. Definition is very good - close to the best you'll see in a 4-megapixel camera, while exposure accuracy, colour and contrast are first-rate.
The A80 is packed with features.
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It has programmed auto-exposure, shutter-priority, aperture-priority, manual and subject-specific 'scene' modes, all accessible via the clearly labelled main mode dial. This makes it very easy to use. Other advanced functions include a choice of metering patterns and a burst mode which takes shots in rapid succession.
The A80's handgrip isn't quite big enough to be effective, and the finish is a bit slippery. Overall, though, it feels well made, and the controls are firm. The camera's features are easily accessible, and the swivelling LCD enables you to preview shots from the oddest angles. You can also close it flat against the camera back.
The PowerShot A80 gives you a lot for your money. It's not expensive for a 4-megapixel camera, and it has the kind of photographic controls you'd expect to pay a lot more for. Add to that its solid build quality, smart design and accessible controls, and you have a real winner.
By Rod Lawton
SPECIFICATIONS:
4-megapixel digital camera with maximum optical resolution of 2,272x1,704, 1.5in preview screen (67,000 pixels) 3x optical zoom, 3.6x digital zoom, 32MB Compact Flash memory storing 14 pictures at maximum quality, panorama mode and swivelling LCD. Takes 4xAA batteries.
