I need help deciding, input please!!!

[LostInLove]

I really want a waterproof camera, and this summer I think I can finally afford it. Not only that, but my SO has offered to buy one for me (though I'm still iffy if I'm going to accept). Anywho, I'm deciding between these two:

Sony Cyber-shot TX5
Panasonic Lumix DMCTS3A

The Panasonic IS better, but I'm not sure it's $150 better. The Sony has MUCH cooler features, and is 1/2-2/3 of the size of the Lumix, which I like. I also can afford the extended warranty, which I think is pretty important for a camera I plan to take into the water, no matter how durable. However, the Lumix is by far the most durable and has better reviews. I know people who have owned it and they've all loved it. But...$400...and it's full of accessories I don't need, like GPS signal so you'll always remember where you took that photo. Cool, but not necessary.

So, input would be much appreciated! Which would you get? Know anyone who has the Sony? Do they love or hate it?

[NaNi]

How often would you really use it? I barely use my digital camera, only when taking photos for my SO and when we're together, so I decided for the cheaper one.

[13000km]

Consider the Canon Powershot D10. A very simple to use camera, but offers some pretty neat features to those who prefer options. Very VERY hardy. My brother has one that has one that has dropped on a very rough surface and kicked around and it's still working perfectly. We recently brought it diving under 12m of water, although on the camera it says that it can go up to 10m under water. It is still going strong, have and and will be having more adventures since that. (:

[13000km]

If I had to choose between the two, I wouldn't even consider the Sony. See the part that slides up and down? That's a stupid design for a camera that is supposed to go underwater. Too many problems can come up JUST because of that piece with sand, dust and WATER. Sony is great, camera's just aren't they're strong products...do NOT buy that camera. It will not last you very long. /:

The panasonic's design is MUCH better as it doesn't have loose parts. Makes more sense for a camera designed for rougher usage. I can't say much about the ease of use because I've never touched a panasonic camera, so the only con I can see from it is the higher price.

[13000km]

If I had to choose between the two, I wouldn't even consider the Sony. See the part that slides up and down? That's a stupid design for a camera that is supposed to go underwater. Too many problems can come up JUST because of that piece with sand, dust and WATER. Sony is great, camera's just aren't they're strong products...do NOT buy that camera. It will not last you very long. /:

The panasonic's design is MUCH better as it doesn't have loose parts. Makes more sense for a camera designed for rougher usage. I can't say much about the ease of use because I've never touched a panasonic camera, so the only con I can see from it is the higher price.

[LostInLove]

NaNi: I use my camera a fair amount, so the picture quality does need to be good. However, they're rated about equal in that aspect. The differences are the durability, and the Sony has a few issues the Panasonic avoids. BUT the Sony is a lot smaller and a lot cheaper.

13000km: I can't find the Canon one in any store nearby, and to be honest I HATE the design. I've also heard the mid-range olympus (I think the 610?) is not bad, but I've heard so many bad things about Olympus overall that I'm wary of getting one.

To be honest I'll probably go in the water with my camera maybe once or twice a year. The sliding piece in the front is a slight concern to me, but it's an issue that will so rarely come up I'm not worried about it at all. I'm more concerned that there are too many controls that rely on the touch screen working. The Lumix is much better quality, it's just.....$150 is a lot to me right now. I keep hoping the Sony will work maybe not just as well, but close to.

[13000km]

13000km: I can't find the Canon one in any store nearby, and to be honest I HATE the design. I've also heard the mid-range olympus (I think the 610?) is not bad, but I've heard so many bad things about Olympus overall that I'm wary of getting one.

To be honest I'll probably go in the water with my camera maybe once or twice a year. The sliding piece in the front is a slight concern to me, but it's an issue that will so rarely come up I'm not worried about it at all. I'm more concerned that there are too many controls that rely on the touch screen working. The Lumix is much better quality, it's just.....$150 is a lot to me right now. I keep hoping the Sony will work maybe not just as well, but close to.

I have to agree, the D10 is VERY ugly. The Sony one...no. Even if you're not looking to bring it into the water much, I'd be worried about the few times it does get in contact with water, and dust, dirt and sand will get in your way. Add a touch screen to that mix and I think it's safe to say the camera will be damaged very easily. I strongly recommend against it. Olympus's water proof cameras were what started the demand for them today, but everyone I know who has it loves it for 2 days, before they find fault with it, and they generally don't last very long, about 1+ years.

As a proud owner of several cameras, I know the pinch of spending when coming to a decision of parting with that much money, but in my opinion the higher price is worth a camera with a longer lifespan that works for its intended purposes.

[LostInLove]

Gah, that's what I was afraid of. Thank you for your input, it's very helpful.

[snow_girl]

I have a panasonic lumix but not the water proof one. Its a wonderful camera and I love it! I can't tell you about the water proof one but if it functions the same as the not waterproof one I would go with it.

[Hilary]

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