digital camera recommendations - I think I narrowed it down to 2

[2sunshines]

I need to purchase a new digital camera. I was torn between a DSLR and a point and shoot, but I'm thinking I'm going to go point and shoot for simplicity and ease of use. I want to be able to slip my camera in my pocket or purse. I also want to take decent quality photos.

I've been researching today and I've narrowed it down to two possibilities. Mind you, they aren't my only possibilities, if you have a different suggestion, let me know, but these are two strong suggestions.

Sony Cybershot DSC-WX150 http://www.amazon.com/dp/B006K553QA/...SIN=B006K553QA

Canon PowerShot HX260 HS http://www.amazon.com/dp/B0075SUK14/...SIN=B0075SUK14

Anyone with experience? Help?

[AdrienneQW]

No experience with those two, but since you're open to other suggestions I have a Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20 that I absolutely adore. I originally bought the ZS3 in this series, waaaaaay back when, and it's the best camera I've ever owned. The ZS3 is still going strong; I just bought the ZS20 to get the extra optical zoom for Olympic Trials (20x).

The optics on the Lumix are downright stunning - it's got Leica glass and the difference is amazing.

I like Digital Photography Review for my in-depth camera reviews... here is their take on the ZS20 if you're interested.

[2sunshines]

Thanks for the recommendation! I am definitely open to other suggestions. How do you like the battery length? That was one possible negative in the reviews I read. How do you find it performs in low light situations (such as indoors)?

[AdrienneQW]

Originally Posted by 2sunshines

Thanks for the recommendation! I am definitely open to other suggestions. How do you like the battery length? That was one possible negative in the reviews I read. How do you find it performs in low light situations (such as indoors)?

I definitely need a spare battery. With the two batteries, I took over 2000 pics per day at Trials.

Low light is the least impressive function of this camera IMO. It's certainly decent, no worse than any camera I've had previously, and the ZS20 exceeds the ZS3, but I've never found a camera I'm 100% happy with in low light.

There are some great pics in the midst of that DPR review I linked; they do scientific tests in controlled conditions. The ZS20 performs as well as other p&s cameras in low light, but still nothing to write home about.