Canon PowerShot S100 review

Canon's last effort produced the best point-and-shoot on the market, and this is its successor

By David Pierce on November 23, 2011 03:46 pm 75Comments

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting.

The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.

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Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.

The term "point-and-shoot camera" has come to encompass shooters that wouldn’t fit in anyone’s pockets, ever — like Canon’s monstrous PowerShot G12, for instance. The S100, however, is legitimately a compact, pocket-friendly camera, and a good-looking one at that. It’s 1.05 inches thick and weighs 6.98 ounces, which make it slightly hefty but not problematically so, and it slips easily into a shirt or jeans pocket. The camera comes in black or silver, and has a metallic finish that makes it feel really solid. One of the few design additions is a tiny plastic bar running down the right side of the front, which acts as a mini-grip and make the camera a bit easier to hold in one hand. Otherwise, the design is virtually identical to the S95, and that’s a really good thing.

The 3-inch LCD on the back of the S100 is filled with 461,000 dots. That’s pretty sharp, though we have occasionally seen better screens on cheaper cameras, like the Nikon Coolpix S9100’s ridiculously sharp 961,000-dot display. The S100’s display also muted some colors pretty severely, showing sky blue as several shades too light. Since there’s no optical viewfinder, and no hotshoe or accessory port for adding an electronic viewfinder, the display becomes critically important — this one’s good, but for the price I wish it were better.

Not having a hotshoe or accessory port also means you can’t attach a flash to the S100, though I’d guess that most people will be happy with the built-in flash, which is surprisingly bright despite being so small. It can’t move, though — being able to bounce the flash off the ceiling would be great, and some pocket cameras let you do so, but no dice here. There is an external flash that’s compatible with the S100, the HF-DC2, but it mounts oddly to the camera and is kind of humongous.

The S100 looks like the S95, and that's a really good thing

Interface

Interface and controls

The S100 has a dial for everything

For a pocket camera, the S100 is absolutely littered with buttons and scroll wheels (as was the S95): there’s a mode dial, a zoom rocker, a power button, and a shutter press all crammed together on top, and on the back are four more buttons, plus the five-way control pad, which both clicks and scrolls. There’s even a ring around the lens, which spins to change things like shutter speed and zoom level. It’s useful, and fun to use; I felt like a pro, even with the tiny little camera. The ability to quickly change ISO, white balance, and shutter speed settings is one of the things I personally really need in a camera, and the S100 does it as well as any small camera I’ve used. That’s a big win for an expensive camera, which is really aimed more at DSLR owners wanting a smaller camera than at regular, everyday shooters.

As for the menu system, Canon’s interface is relatively standard across its point-and-shoot cameras, and it’s perfectly functional without being very impressive. I like that if you press the center button on the back, it overlays a menu on top of the viewfinder that lets you change common options like ISO, shooting size, and the like. Those options change depending on what mode you’re in (you see more if you’re in a manual mode than in Auto), and it can be confusing to figure out what’s where, but it’s certainly easier than digging through the full menu system every time. If you do ever need to get into the menu, it’s just gray text on a gray background — nothing to write home about, but it gets the job done fine.

Features

GPS is a surprisingly cool camera feature

Canon doesn’t include that many funky shooting features in the camera. There are, of course, the obligatory batch of scene modes — Snow, Fireworks, Portrait, and more — but otherwise there’s not much to speak of. There’s an HDR mode, and a cool but confusing panorama mode — it helps you frame and shoot a cool-looking panorama, but it’s hard to figure out how to use properly. The first time I tried out the panorama mode, I wound up taking about 20 pictures and spinning all the way around three times in the process, before I realized you have to stop it manually. I, of course, did that in the name of testing.

GPS also comes built into the camera, which means you can geotag your photos. Most photo-management apps can plot your geotagged photos on a map, showing you where you were when you were shooting; it’s a really awesome feature, especially if you’re on vacation and want to remember where you were when you captured a particularly cool photo. Having GPS on all the time will massacre your battery, though, and it takes a few minutes to get a signal every time you turn it on, so use it judiciously.

Performance

Performance and Quality

The S100, as expected, takes wonderful photos

Canon PowerShot S100 sample photos

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Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.
Canon PowerShot S100 review

From the day it was announced, I’ve been excited about the Canon PowerShot S100. Its predecessor, the S95, is still one of the best pocket-sized cameras on the market even a year after its release, and the S100 improves on many of its features — it’s got a wider lens, a faster processor, a new sensor, and GPS functionality — while keeping the S95’s litany of manual controls, great look and feel, and its promise of fantastic images even in poor lighting. The small tweaks should add up to a noticeably better camera experience, but do they? At $429.99, the S100 is nearly in Micro Four Thirds or entry-level DSLR range, and we expect the S95’s price to drop significantly as the S100 hits shelves. Is the S100 worth its premium price tag? I’ve been testing it by itself and alongside its competition — read on for our findings in the full review.

As I mentioned before, most of the S100’s upgrades over the S95 are internal, and evolutionary rather than game-changing. The S95 had a larger-than-average sensor (though still small compared to DSLRs or Micro Four Thirds cams), and 3.8x optical zoom on a bright, f/2.0 lens that extended from 28-105mm. The S100 bumps up to 5x zoom on a 24-125 lens (still f/2.0), and swaps the CCD sensor for a Canon-optimized CMOS.

Most of the changes are obviously positive, but the sensor change made me nervous — the S95 was so good, why fix what’s not broken? After using the S100 for a while, I’m still wondering. The S100’s photos are still excellent, but I can’t find a shred of evidence that points to them being better. In fact, in one noticeable way, they’re worse: the S100 has a tendency to over-saturate colors, which makes them beautiful and vivid at the expense of accuracy. (The sky in some of my test shots looked just a little bit too amazing.) That’s not to say it doesn’t take terrific pictures, because it does — I’m nitpicking, and I’m only able to do so because Canon made such a good camera the last time. But the S100 would be an even better upgrade if it had kept the CCD sensor.

Low-light performance is a similar story: it’s still really good, but if anything a hair worse than the S95. The S100 does a solid job of getting crisp photos without the flash in low light, and it’s clean and clear all the way up to ISO 1600 (and still usable beyond), but all the way up the S95’s photos just looked a little brighter, and a little better. The S100 actually does a better job delivering noise-free photos at high ISOs, but the S95 handles colors better, and unless you're blowing up your photos to huge resolutions I think color performance is more important.

As point-and-shoots go, the S100 is extremely fast, thanks to Canon’s new DIGIC 5 processor. It can turn on and capture a photo in a little over two seconds, and only has about a quarter of a second of shutter lag. Like most other compact cams, the S100 is set to review each shot for two seconds after you take it, but you can turn that feature off in settings and capture a photo about every two seconds. All those numbers are fast for any camera and very fast for a point-and-shoot, and all are notably faster than the S95. We’ve seen the future, though, and it’s dual-core processors like those inside the Casio Exilim ZR100 and the Olympus PEN E-P3. They allow you to capture an image while simultaneously writing the last one to your memory card, and I’m not sure how much longer anything else will seem adequate. Without one, the S100 is fast, but not standard-setting fast.

With great power comes great battery needs, too, and the fast processor and higher-res capability mean longevity is not the S100’s strong suit. The camera only lasted me for a couple of hours of heavy shooting, or two or three days with normal use. Plan to buy an extra battery for the S100, or to recharge the shooter every couple hundred shots.

Video

Another of the S100's upgrades is its ability to shoot 1080p video - the S95 could only do 720p. Video looks great, clear and accurate, but at 1080p you can only shoot at 24 frames per second; if you're shooting fast-moving subjects, that doesn't really cut it. 720p at 30 frames per second ended up being my preferred video method, and it looks great - the S95 only did 720p at 24 fps, and bumping up to 30 is nice. (Though at the rate we're going, the S105 should shoot 1080p30 video, and then we'll really be in business.)

The camera can also zoom and autofocus when you’re recording video — there’s a slight noise from the zoom, but it’s not a problem, especially if there’s other sound in the video. Both zoom and autofocus are insanely slow when you’re shooting video, though, so don’t expect magic. Actually, autofocus in general isn’t great here: in an effort to be fast, which it is, it chooses odd things to focus on, and changes its focus every time you press the shutter.

Wrap-up

If pure image quality is what you want, the S95 is still a better camera

There are now two cameras at the top of the point-and-shoot market, and Canon makes both of them. The S95 gets a slight edge in terms of image quality, but the S100’s wider lens, faster performance, and video recording are all solid tweaks on top of the S95. The S95 is still on sale for $399.99, and can probably be found for much less now that the S100 is available; unless the S100’s improvements are particularly compelling, I’d recommend sticking with the S95. Both are excellent on every level, though, and the S100 is far better in most respects than just about every other compact camera out there. Of course, for $70 more you can get the Olympus E-PM1 Micro Four Thirds shooter, with interchangeable lenses and a larger sensor, but it’s not nearly as comfy in your pocket.

Want to see how the S100 stacks up against the S95, G12, and Olympus E-PM1? Check it out right here in our product comparison!

Compare It

Canon Powershot S100

8.3 Verge Score Write Review

Good Stuff

Fantastic image quality
Fast performance
Tons of manual controls
Upgraded internals from the S95

Bad Stuff

Expensive
Images are slightly inferior to the S95
Relatively short battery life

The Breakdown

More times than not, the Verge score is based on the average of the subscores below. However, since this is a non-weighted average, we reserve the right to tweak the overall score if we feel it doesn't reflect our overall assessment and price of the product. Read more about how we test and rate products.

Design 9
Image quality 9
Video quality 8
Interface / controls 8
Features 7
Performance 9

Comments

juliankay says:

If I was going to get a camera that’s smaller than my 7D, this would be it.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 3:49 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

colin.stalter's reply:

I’m in the same boat here. I’m thinking about getting this camera for when I want good pictures but can’t bring along the huge DSLR body.

Posted on Nov 28, 2011 | 3:58 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

mbgoro says:

Man, I love Verge videos!

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 3:51 PM EST reply Recommend (11) Flag actions

gtenney's reply:

I could not agree more.

Posted on Nov 24, 2011 | 2:27 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

profernity says:

I’ve been eyeing this to accompany my 7D…nice to know that I probably won’t lose much if I just try to find an S95 on sale.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 3:52 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

Good_ole_Pinocchio says:

Nice review. We need a steady flow of Camera reviews from this point on i think. Especially for the pocketable megazooms

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 3:55 PM EST via mobile reply Recommend (11) Flag actions

Joanna Stern's reply:

We hear you!

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 4:12 PM EST reply Recommend (5) Flag actions

slackguy's reply:

Would love to see a review of the Sony HX9v. I think it’s a much better camera than the S100.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 4:51 PM EST reply Recommend (3) Flag actions

Michael Scrip's reply:

Ditto!

The HX9 is getting rave reviews for its video quality. I’m thinking of picking one up just for that.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 5:07 PM EST reply Recommend (1) Flag actions

gopre85's reply:

I’m torn between a really high end point and shoot and something like the Sony Nex-%N. Hmmmm, methinks i’ll probably just get whatever gets the best black friday pricing.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 7:30 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

gopre85's reply:

ooops, I meant the 5N

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 7:31 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

MichaelPaez's reply:

I have a HX5V an I would have to agree that its one of the best P&S on the market. It does excellent stills and great video.

Posted on Nov 24, 2011 | 12:07 AM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

ChrisCicc's reply:

I agree, loving the review style on The Verge. But we need a camera pro to do the reviews, this one shows as amateurish IMHO.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 4:16 PM EST reply Recommend (7) Flag actions

DC89's reply:

Needs for everyday use Point and Shoot camera reviews too like the Canon ELPH 310HS

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 4:24 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

DC89's reply:

**not “for”………… meant to say “more”.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 4:25 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

Adhibanator's reply:

Why do you need a fat compact camera with 20x+ zoom? They’re actually pointless because they’re bigger than Compact systems Cameras and without interchangealble lens but are the same size as a DSLR?! The whole point Compact cameras are called ‘Compact’ is because they can fit in pockets, whereas fat compact zooms you will have to carry around a bag and a neck strap?! They’re even like the same price as Entry level DSLR’s and CSC’s! Also with that size you’re getting a bit bigger Point shoot sensor?! To be honest if I was going for something similar size and similar in price then I’d go for a Pro point and shoot like the Canon PowerShot G12! :)

Posted on Nov 24, 2011 | 1:13 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

mabedan says:

is it me, or there’s actually a huge background noise in the video?

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 3:56 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

MichaelPaez's reply:

Just you

Posted on Nov 24, 2011 | 12:07 AM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

Chrisness says:

In this era, can a camera still be considered the best point and shoot when it can’t even auto focus when shooting video? (I’m talking about the S95)

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 4:01 PM EST reply Recommend (1) Flag actions

crispinds says:

Is it just me, or does it seem like David needs to take a breath! Talking so fast without pausing jeez! It’s actually hard to pay attention to someone who rambles, even if it is about technical specifications.

Nice review though! Loving the new review style

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 4:03 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

David Pierce's reply:

I was afraid you’d notice that :) I got going kinda fast there, I get excited!

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 4:12 PM EST reply Recommend (3) Flag actions

adammiarka says:

With the S100, you are able to select your focal point as well. The S95, you could only focus with the center spot.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 4:06 PM EST reply Recommend (1) Flag actions

iTee's reply:

That’s big!

I’m kinda disappointed that the image quality is not as good, I was looking to replace my S90.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 8:21 PM EST via mobile reply Recommend Flag actions

Tobi says:

Interesting but I think I will use a micro four thirds as my pocketable alternative.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 4:06 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

DizWhiz's reply:

I get tired of reading this. m4/3 is NOT pocketable unless you have a pancake lens/no lens attached.

If I have to carry it in a sling/bag/fanny pack I’ll just get a DSLR for the same price.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 5:47 PM EST reply Recommend (5) Flag actions

Pete2's reply:

Thats what I always think. If there was a truly pocketable camera with the sensor size of m4/3 or even just in-between the S100’s and that I would be on it like a shot.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 7:02 PM EST reply Recommend (1) Flag actions

jforbes's reply:

Enter the Nikon 1, with a 1" sensor. Too big?

Olympus XZ-1. It’s a bit bigger than the S100, but has a larger sensor and faster lens. High ISO IQ is a bit worse, but you don’t need to use them as much – the lens is f1.8 on the wide end, 2.5 on the long end (as opposed to 5.9 on the long end on the Canon).

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 8:58 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

Tobi's reply:

First of all even entry level DSLRs are FAR bigger than m4/3, a DSLR with KitLens mounted would not fit in a rather slim bag and would take away too much space in a bag.
Secondly, entry level DSLRs “for the same price” don’t produce much better pictures except in low light, where you wouldn’t expect great image quality anyway (if you really need it you would be using a better and much more expensive DSLR and faster lens), so the added bulk is not worth it.

And lastly if we are going to split hairs because of my use of “pocketable”, you can’t shove a S100 in your jeans’ pocket unless you feel the urge to look like an idiot.
If you really need THAT kind of form factor use your phone.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 10:14 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

DizWhiz's reply:

You missed my point. If it won’t fit in my pocket I don’t care because now I’m in “Lug around a camera in a bag” territory so I’d rather have a DSLR. And I’d love to see any m4/3 ISO 1600 and up against even the D3100.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 11:57 PM EST reply Recommend (3) Flag actions

Tobi's reply:

As I said, it is pretty obvious that in low light situations entry DSLRs have the edge, just like a full frame should have the edge over an APS-C sensor.

I got your point but again for ME a m4/3 is a far better size/quality compromise than a point and shoot – if I need something really small I would use my phone, which would absolutely suck in low light, but the s95 sucks in low light too (flash with its exposure compensation would only work on people’s shots and rather close subjects, while still looking crappy).
The Panasonic DMC-G2 is (in my country) way less expensive than a D3100, MUCH smaller (the d3100 is a beast – nearly as big as the 5D Mark II) and under moderate lighting conditions shoots equally good pictures (both with KitLenses mounted).
The S100 (again, in my country), costs even more than a G2.

Posted on Nov 24, 2011 | 9:24 AM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

ounkeo's reply:

the Sony NEX c3 reviewed very well. I tried it out in the shop for size and heft and it is thin, light and with pancake, easily fits in the pocket unless you wear tight pants. It’s double the thickness of my HD7 and is practically the same size as most point & shoot cameras (with pancake), maybe even better sized than some.

Posted on Nov 24, 2011 | 3:00 AM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

strawe's reply:

My X100 fits inside my inner coat pocket, I whip it out like I’m James Bond. My 5D Mark II….not so much.

I’d say that the m4/3 system is pocketable during all seasons except summer :P

Posted on Nov 24, 2011 | 8:16 AM EST reply Recommend (1) Flag actions

fEast91's reply:

Wouldn’t the weight of a camera ought to be considered too?

Posted on Nov 26, 2011 | 4:22 AM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

Soong says:

S95/s100 as the two top point-and-shoot cameras? I think it’s a bit narrow-minded to not even mention the XZ-1 or LX5! Perhaps not as easy in the pocket but both arguably better than the Canon efforts.

And as a owner of a S95 and XZ-1 I can say the XZ-1 is better in every way except pocketability!

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 4:07 PM EST reply Recommend (2) Flag actions

laoh's reply:

Well a distinction needs to be added (from all reviewers in general I might add). S95/S100/XZ-1/LX5 are seemingly in the same category – high end P&S – but the distinction is that only S95/S100 are truly pocketable. In terms of truly pocketable P&S cameras, it’s hard to beat the S95/S100.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 5:24 PM EST reply Recommend (2) Flag actions

bootareen's reply:

Does the XZ-1 still have the jpeg noise reduction smudging issue?

I think the S100 an ok improvement. It has f2.0 and a 24mm wide lens and zoom and focus during video just like LX-5, but they managed to keep it in a small package. The only thing is that I hear this thing only takes 200 on a charge, which is not enough especially when travelling. The LX-5 gets around 400 including some HD video. Also, why did they have to increase the MP count!?!

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 7:34 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

ChrisCicc says:

This is a pretty incomplete review! Where are the image comparisons, like here? If you did that comparison you would see the night and day difference between the two in noise. Where are the low-light test shots? You complain about battery life compared to the S95, but did you test it without the GPS turned on? This review needs to go back to the editor.

(And for the record, I have both cameras.)

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 4:11 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

David Pierce's reply:

I just added a couple of comparison shots to the gallery. The noise difference really wasn’t much, at least until both were unusable anyway. And with GPS off, battery’s certainly better than with it on — but the results above were with GPS off.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 4:24 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

ChrisCicc's reply:

Cool, but still not enough IMO. This is a pro camera, it deserves a pro review, like the ISO-by-ISO comparison in the article I linked to. Also, did you shoot in a manual mode or in auto? The tests just don’t seem to have a common baseline.

Overall you are right about the color being a little different, and about the battery being a bit less, but you missed the EXTREMELY strong abilities of the S100 in terms of overall noise and low-light performance when compared to the S95. All in all it just seems a little too subjective.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 4:38 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

Soong's reply:

I don’t think he needs to go into ridiculous detail, this is a general tech site and it’s a review for what is effectively a point-and-shoot.

If you want a massively in-depth review then there are sites like dpreview who cater for that. I imagine a review like this is enough for the average user.

Although I do still think with all this mention of low-light shots there has to be a mention of the XZ-1 :)

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 4:48 PM EST reply Recommend (2) Flag actions

ChrisCicc's reply:

I agree he doesn’t need technical details, but he’s really not providing any comparative details, just his opinion. The Verge’s new format for reviews is great, well organized, well presented, and structured in a way to be able to handle lots of details. While I don’t expect to come here for too many technical details, if he’s going to say that camera a is better than camera b in low light or high ISO, he needs to provide a sampling of the data he used to make that judgement, again like the linked article. He didn’t do that, and his conclusions were also wrong.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 5:05 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

David Pierce's reply:

All totally fair points. Whenever I’m reviewing a point-and-shoot, I spend most of the time in auto because I feel like most people shoot that way with low-end cameras. And as for the noise and low-light stuff, my overwhelming experience was how similar the two cameras are. They’re both great, really great, but the S100’s not notably better in as much as I tested it. The ISO-by-ISO stuff is great, and I can definitely do more of it in my testing even if it’s not a huge part of the written review.

I really appreciate all the feedback, thanks!

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 5:02 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

ChrisCicc's reply:

yeah I hear you, it’s a fine balance between saying to the average consumer “it’s a great camera, go for it, but don’t be afraid of the cheaper S95 either!” and to the pro “the S100 is able to best the S95 in these shooting conditions for these reasons”. But I do think a little more direct comparative evidence will go a long way.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 5:07 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

David Pierce's reply:

Hey, so it turns out we’re both right, in a way. I went back and looked at some of my pictures, and there’s definitely a noise difference — but the S95’s colors still look better to me (ditto with the chart you linked above). I’ve updated the review to say as much, at the bottom of the low-light performance section. I don’t think it changes anything about the conclusion, though.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 5:39 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

David Pierce's reply:

Oh, and I should say the S95’s battery isn’t good either. It’s just slightly better.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 5:03 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

DizWhiz's reply:

Then visit sits like dpreview if you need pixel-peeping ridiculousness.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 5:44 PM EST reply Recommend (3) Flag actions

GadgetFanboy's reply:

Since you have both, which would you recommend? I’m still using my old S90, and was going to replace with an S95, until I heard S100 was on the horizon. Well, now I’ve been reading some reviews, like dpreview.com etc, and it hasn’t been a total confirmation that S100 is a real improvement.

Do I need to weigh benefits between better IQ and low-light IQ of the S95, and new features of the S100, or is there a clear winner in your opinion?

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 5:01 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

ChrisCicc's reply:

In your case it’s easy, if your coming from the S90 the S100 is the easy decision. If your coming from an S95 it’s much tougher. I made the purchase myself because I wanted the higher ISO capabilities and low-light improvements. Any color issues I would correct in RAW processing anyways. And the GPS is an awesome feature that I think all cameras should have.

But at the same time my use for this camera is different than the average person. This is my pocket camera, I use my 5D mark II kit for any serious shots, so I want this to be as flexible as possible. If I was going to buy a camera just for daylight or flash shots, the S95 at the cheaper price would be the way to go. But again, I prefer to go flash-less, crank up the ISO, and get those details and colors that other cameras usually lose in the background.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 5:12 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

GadgetFanboy's reply:

Thanks for the info, this is helpful.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 6:00 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

Jazzwall's reply:

The amount of detail in this review is perfect for this kind of site. If you want full-on details, I suggest going to dpreview.com …. you’re barking on the wrong tree!

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 6:54 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

nexus says:

Nice. Justified my purchase of the S95 when the S100 was announced. Its good being right once in a while.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 4:22 PM EST via mobile reply Recommend Flag actions

DC89 says:

YES!!! been waiting for this review! Thanks!

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 4:22 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

bethted says:

think I’ll stick with my s95

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 4:24 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

rhaleuk says:

Your video reviews are brilliant. More please.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 4:30 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

novawolverine says:

I’ve seen a lot of comparison pictures and I can’t see how the S95 pictures in low-light are better than the S100’s. I think the edge would go to the S95 in low-iso environments, so it is a better value as a still camera, but I think the 1080p, faster handling, faster shot-to-shot/continuous shooting, GPS, etc. are great features to have and should have been in previous iterations. I think all of the S series cameras need better battery life, though.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 4:39 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

laoh says:

Where are the low-light photos? Let’s see some pics from a dimly-lit restaurant, inside someone’s home, inside a subway station (not just a sign outside), a bar, a club with lots of blinking lights, etc. As much as the reviewed harped on the camera’s low-light capability (or it’s slight degradation of it compared to S95), I wished to see sample low-light pics.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 5:28 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

David Pierce's reply:

I just found a bunch of those, and added them to the gallery.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 5:40 PM EST reply Recommend (1) Flag actions

graison says:

is there really that big a market for these types of cameras? higher end point and shoot?

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 6:07 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

laoh's reply:

Dude, where have you been the last 2 years!

Posted on Nov 24, 2011 | 12:25 AM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

graison's reply:

using the camera on my phone, like most other people

Posted on Nov 24, 2011 | 6:12 AM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

laoh's reply:

That’s fine for facebook photos but not as a replacement for a “real” camera. If you were never the type to carry a camera around in the first place, then you’d be fine with a phone camera. There are others (like me) that always carry a camera wherever we go.

Posted on Nov 24, 2011 | 3:51 PM EST reply Recommend (1) Flag actions

iRichiepoo says:

Anything about the high frame rate (still) shooting feature of this camera (does it Servo AF in that mode), or the fact that it shoots RAW? I’d like to hear some opinions about those features!

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 7:58 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

Evelgest says:

I’m sitting pretty with my S95. It doesn’t look like I’m missing out on much.

I think the review is satisfactory for this site, but if you’re looking for more, go to dpreview or other camera websites.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 8:03 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

juliobx says:

Canon S95 is in sale @ amazon.com for $289.99

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 9:26 PM EST via mobile reply Recommend Flag actions

ounkeo says:

I’m waiting for my Sony Nex C3 for xmas. It’s small and thin and if you use the basi lens, is about the same size as this camera except at micro 4/3 quality.

Price is a little more expensive, but really it’s worth it.

Posted on Nov 23, 2011 | 9:44 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

scotolsen says:

Hey David, didn’t see this in the comments so I figured I’d chime in:

CCD sensors are incapable of 1080p video recording, so Canon would have to switch to CMOS to record at full HD. So that’s why Canon would switch even though it doesn’t seem that they did any improvements.

Posted on Nov 24, 2011 | 12:00 AM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

catlike1 says:

Claiming the Canon S95 and S100 are the best point and shoots is debatable, especially if you haven’t done an actual comparison. I have the Panasonic LX5 and chose it over the Canon S95 because although their lenses both start at f/2.0 at the widest angle, the Panasonic stays very bright as you zoom in whereas the Canon jumps quickly to much higher f-stop . The canons are definitely more pocketable, though, and I wish the LX5 didn’t have a lens cap. .

Posted on Nov 24, 2011 | 2:55 AM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

Topher Allan says:

I’ve never used a camera with GPS before, so before I read the review, my biggest question was, how useful will the GPS be, unassisted?

It’s a real shame… the camera would definitely benefit from assisted GPS, but loading it up with cellular hardware would be overkill, not to mention the need to pay for the connectivity.

I feel like there’s a need for either a BlueTooth profile, or some kind of standard interface that can run over WiFi, for sharing a phone’s location with other devices. Chances are you’re already carrying a phone with assisted GPS, which is capable of getting your location much more quickly than the GPS in the S100. Offloading the location awareness to the phone would also help the camera’s battery life.

Posted on Nov 24, 2011 | 4:42 AM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

philkv2 says:

I have to agree with some of my fellow posters. Saying that the two best P&S cameras are both Canon is showing a clear Canikon bias especially when you have no empirical evidence to back it up. As others have noted, it’s pretty crowded at the top with cameras such as Olympia’s XZ-1, Panasonic’s LUMIX Lx5 as well Fujifilm’s X10 which cannot be set aside as casually as this review does. The camera reviews deserve the same level of detail as cellphones and laptops.

Posted on Nov 24, 2011 | 12:19 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

laoh says:

David, thanks for your review. You might find some criticisms but do note that you’ve been tasked to review a wildly popular camera, so it’s no easy feat!

One request I have – and I’ve made this request to many review sites to no avail – is for camera reviewers to test the audio mic during video mode. 1) Does the audio auto attenuate to avoid clipping? 2) If yes, does it do a good job or muffle out the volume too much or reduce certain frequencies too much to make it a rather unpleasant effect?) No need to write a novel… just a quick sentence or two to summarize the audio recording characteristics would be enough.

The reason I bring this up is b/c I went to a live concert before and used my friend’s S90 to capture the video. I was dismayed to find out that the S90 does NOT attenuate, thus the audio was all distorted and really rendered the video unusable :( What’s baffling is that my old Canon SD1100 (2008) does a fine job attenuating. My current camera (Samsung TL350/WB2000) does attenuate but in loud settings, it muffles certain frequencies too much so while you can hear ppl yapping around you, it drowns out all other sound, such as music so it’s very unsuitable as a device I’d take casually to a live concert to record a few clips. “Well, it really sounds like you need a real video camera”… well yes, but c’mon, I’m just like everyone else that has a digital camera… no need to hunker down and get yet another device. With more emphasis given to video functions of today’s cameras, it’d be nice if the audio portion was reviewed as well.

Posted on Nov 24, 2011 | 4:01 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

David Pierce's reply:

That’s a great point, I’ll definitely do more of that in other reviews. Thanks!

Posted on Nov 25, 2011 | 8:14 AM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

CCasper says:

“Images are slightly inferior to the S95”
This makes me happy. I LOVE my S95

Posted on Nov 24, 2011 | 5:31 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

Leonardo Oliveira says:

Really? The best compact camera out there? Wow. Then i want its successor, a black one.

Posted on Nov 26, 2011 | 7:22 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

tmoney468 says:

They must have wondered about you filming that armored car ;)

Posted on Nov 26, 2011 | 9:54 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

Dagfinn says:

I bought the camera yesterday, charged as instructed (waited for the green light) and took it out today to take the very first photo some 18 hours later – voila; not possible as the battery was fully drained!

Will try again tomorrow but this time turn off the GPS – in the hope I will be able to take my first photo then.

Do I feel cheated – yes!!!

Posted on Dec 12, 2011 | 2:47 PM EST reply Recommend Flag actions

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