Testing / Performance

Color ***(8.88)***

We test the color reproduction of each camera by recording a series of photographs of our GretagMacbeth color chart, which sets the industry standard of what colors should ideally (and naturally) look like. We took several exposures of this chart with the Canon PowerShot A510 and uploaded the images into Imatest Imaging Software to analyze the produced tones. In the modified chart below, the outer square of each tile represents the color produced by the A510, the inner square represents what the color would look like when color-corrected by a computer software application, and the small vertical rectangle is the original color from the GretagMacbeth chart.

 

 

To standardize what our viewers are seeing through individually adjusted computer screens, below is a chart plotting the error of each color. The squares represent the Canon A510’s produced colors; the circles represent the ideal colors. The greater the distance between the two shapes, the greater the inaccuracy of that particular color.

 

The Canon A510 performed better than most of its PowerShot counterparts with an overall color score of 8.88. The camera tended to exaggerate the reds and blues, but was pretty accurate throughout the rest of the spectrum. The 8.88 overall color score is a big improvement on the Canon PowerShot A95’s 7.07 score and is slightly better than the score from the new SD500, an 8.12.

Still Life Scene

Below is our eccentric still life scene photographed by the Canon PowerShot A510.

[

Click on the above image to view a full resolution version (CAUTION: The linked image is very large!)](../viewer.php?picture=Canon-A510-StillLifeLG.jpg)

 

Resolution / Sharpness ***(2.2)***

The Canon PowerShot A510 has a 1/2.5-inch CCD under its hood with an advertised 3.2 effective megapixels of its 3.3 total MPs. To test how many pixels the A510 is actually using, we took several exposures of the International Standards Organization 12233 resolution chart and uploaded the pictures into Imatest Imaging Software. The software analyzed each picture and determined the number of pixels that were used to form the image. A camera that records within 70 percent of the advertised effective megapixel count receives a "good" designation. A camera within 80 percent receives a "very good" score, and a camera within 90 percent receives an "excellent" score — although this is quite rare.

[

Click on the chart for the full res image](../viewer.php?picture=Canon-A510-ResLG.jpg)

 

The Canon PowerShot A510 used 2.2 megapixels, which is 70 percent of Canon’s advertised 3.2 megapixels. This earns the digital camera a "good" designation, but it still hovers on the relatively low end of the resolution scale.

Noise Auto ISO ***(9.6)***

We tested the A510’s noise levels while shooting in the automatic ISO setting. Most compact digital cameras score in the 3-4 range (overall score), but this model blasted the competition with an impressive 9.6 overall noise auto ISO score. This is definitely the best automatic ISO setting on a compact digital camera that we’ve tested. The high score is impressive, but it's really attributed to the camera’s strong light sensor, which sets the camera to the lowest ISO setting when there is enough available light. While this may seem obvious, many cameras stumble in the auto ISO test because they do not accurately perceive the amount of available light and select a lower ISO rating than is needed. This will often lead to images that have far more visible noise than is necessary.

Noise Manual ISO ***(6.0)***

The Canon A510 offers the following manual ISO ratings: 50, 100, 200, and 400. Most digital cameras perform more accurately when the ISO is manually set; however, the A510 proved that this is not always true. We tested the noise levels at each ISO rating and compiled the results into a regression analysis to determine the overall score. The results are broken down in the graph below; the horizontal axis shows the camera’s ISO ratings and the vertical axis represents the noise at each of those ratings.

 

Receiving an overall noise manual ISO score of 6.0 is quite an achievement for a compact digital camera. This camera records much less noise than most other compact PowerShot models we have tested, and I am glad to see this improvement finally appear in the PowerShot line.

**Low Light ***(5.0)*

To test the A510’s low light capabilities, we recorded multiple exposures of our GretagMacbeth color chart at four decreasing light levels. The shots were all taken without the assistance of a flash, using the camera’s highest available ISO rating (400) at varying exposure durations. The purpose of this test is to isolate the sensitivity of the image sensor to light and find the point at which the camera is no longer effective.

The images were shot at 60, 30, 15, and 5 Lux to simulate typical low light shooting conditions: 60 Lux looks like a bedroom might after dark, while 30 Lux is roughly the illumination emitted from a single 40 watt lightbulb, and 15 and 5 Lux approach relative darkness.

 

Click on the above charts for additional analysis

The A510 handled 60 Lux with relative ease, producing images that were slightly washed out but still very much discernible.This is important because 60 Lux approximates the illumination level of a range of outdoor night scenes as well as indoor shooting scenarios.Under 30 Lux, the colors began to dull and blend together.The overall composition at 30 Lux is muddy with all vibrancy lost. The image is not much noisier than at 60 Lux, but overall the image is greatly compromised. At 15 and 5 Lux color and noise analysis is virtually irrelevant as the A510 (even with an AF assist beam) could not attain focus.Uses will have to opt for external illumination when light levels drop below 30 Lux – this will include shots in moderately lit indoor scenes when the shooter and subject are not near the light source.

For night shooting, the A510 will be adequate, but certainly not stellar.The improved performance at ISO 400 helps to make the A510 one of the strongest PowerShot models for night scenes and landscapes, but it will still have some problems.Noise will be present, but not overwhelming.The only true concerns will be focus and color, though shooting nighttime colorscapes can be a good time for the user to stray from naturalism and try a more expressionistic rendering of the scene.

**Speed / Timing
***Start-up to First Shot (7.26)
*The A510 requires over 2.7 seconds to boot up and record an exposure. This will be far too slow to capture a fleeting moment or moving object.

*Shot to Shot (7.07)
*Consecutive shots can be recorded 2.93 seconds apart using the A510. This is quite slow, especially considering you could power the camera off and then back on and almost maintain the same speed. Automatic focusing time and exposure lock factor into the slowed recording rate.

*Shutter to Shot (8.1)
*Speed is not a strong element of the A510; however, unlike start-up time and consecutive shooting rate, the A510 restricts shutter lag to just .45 seconds - not bad for a point-and-shoot.

Physical Tour

 

**

Front ***(8.0)
*The front of the Canon PowerShot A510 features a prominent 4x optical zoom lens, slightly left of center. The zoom lens is retractable and is covered by an automatic lens cover when not in use. There is a removable ring surrounding the lens, which detaches to allow for the application of additional conversion lenses. A small button is located to the right and slightly beneath the ring, enabling the lens ring to be removed. To the upper left of the lens, running horizontally along the top edge of the camera, is the internal flash. To the right of the flash is the camera's viewfinder window. Further to the right is the AF-assist beam / Red-eye Reduction lamp. Beneath the Red-eye Reduction lamp and beside the lens ring is the microphone for audio input into the camera. An extended right hand grip is located on the camera's right side just below the shutter to provide some additional control when shooting with one hand.

 

**

Back (8.0)**

The back of the Canon PowerShot A510 features a 1.8 inch LCD screen in a glossy frame which is nearly flush with the surface of the camera body. The screen is weighted to the left side of the camera's back face, mirroring the placement of the lens ion the camera's front façade. Above the LCD screen is the incredibly undersized real image optical viewfinder, too painfully small for continuous use. The small circle has shooting indicators located to the left. Beneath the LCD screen on the screen's frame are the labels for three control buttons; they are, from left to right: Print/Share, Menu, and Func. buttons. Next to the lower right corner of the LCD screen is the Disp. button for viewing on the LCD screen. Above the Disp. button is the camera's essential control element: the four-way controller. The four-way controller allows the user to navigate through menus and toggle through control options projected on the LCD screen. These controls also have secondary control features which offer immediate accessibility without having to enter into a menu. The up arrow controls the flash settings, while the down arrow controls the camera's Macro mode and Manual Focus options. In the center of the camera's four-way controller is a set button which renders selections. The four-way controller does not use individual buttons for each of the directions, but relies on a continuous ring surrounding the set button. This makes for less accurate use and may lead to accidental setting engagement.

Above and to the left of the four-way controller is the Mode switch which allows the user to move between playback and standard shooting modes. Beneath the four-way controller on the bottom edge of the camera body is a door which may be flipped open to access the memory card slot.

**Left Side ***(8.0)
*The Canon PowerShot A510 has a terminal cover on the left side of the camera body. When this port cover is opened the user is able to access the A/V out, USB, and the DC in terminals. The USB terminal connects the external flash component of the camera to the body of the A510. Other than that, the left side of the camera body supplies structural support and additional surface for gripping.

 

**Right Side ***(8.0)
*The right side of the camera body has even fewer features than the left; there is a strap mount located halfway up the camera body. Beneath the right side the user will find the overly complex battery door cover for the camera, leading to the AA battery ports.

  

**Top ***(8.0)
*The top of the Canon PowerShot A510 features a mode dial (crowded with options) which allows the user to switch between Image Zone modes and Creative Zone modes. More specifically, the mode dial provides immediate access to preset modes, movie modes, and manual modes, including full Manual, Program, Shutter Priority, Aperture Priority, and full Auto mode). To the right of the mode dial is an internal speaker for playback of audio recording. In front of the camera speaker the user will find the camera's shutter button. Surrounding the shutter button is the zoom ring, which enables users to smoothly adjust the focal length for the shot. In playback mode the wide angle and telephoto settings adjust magnification levels and switch between playback zoom and multi-up format.

 

Components

**

Viewfinder ***(4.5)*

The A510 contains an uncomfortably minuscule viewfinder that is unfortunately placed directly above the center of the LCD screen. Sadly, its size and placement make this feature almost entirely useless. The circular viewfinder is a real image optical zoom viewfinder which allows the user to view the zoom levels of the camera. Focus settings are not displayed through this feature.  

**

LCD Screen ***(6.0)*

The LCD on the Canon PowerShot A510 is located on the left side of the camera's back face. The LCD screen measures 1.8 inches diagonally and has a total pixel count of 115,000 pixels. The Disp. button to the lower right of the LCD screen controls the amount of information viewed on the LCD screen at one time. The LCD screen is slightly raised from the surface of the camera body and has no protective covering--a drawback for the rougher user or frequent traveler. The screen itself is adequate, but certainly nothing to brag about. The resolution is meager and the size barely compensates. For today's standards, it is certainly sub-par.  

**

Flash ***(6.5)*

The internal flash that comes with the Canon PowerShot A510 is located in the upper left corner of the camera's front face. This placement allows for the user to easily obscure or entirely cover the flash with wandering fingers during shooting. The flash mode can remain in automatic mode, or the user can set the mode through the up arrow on the four-way controller. When the up arrow is pressed the flash options appear on the top edge of the LCD screen. The user can then choose between Auto with red-eye reduction, Auto, Flash on with red-eye reduction, Flash on, and Flash off. The PowerShot A510 is also capable of accepting additional external flash support when shooting situations require additional illumination.  

**

Zoom Lens ***(7.0)*

The Zoom Lens for the Canon PowerShot A510 is a 4x optical, 3.2x digital zoom lens with a rating of 5.8-23.2mm. When converted to a 35mm equivalent the variable focal length available extends from 35-140mm, with aperture settings of f/2.6- f/5.5. The zoom lens extends from the camera body when in use and fully retracts into the frame when turned off. There is a converter ring surrounding the lens barrel, which can be removed to enable users to apply conversion lenses.

Design / Layout

**Model Design / Appearance ***(7.0)*

The Canon PowerShot A510 follows the conventional A-series styling, offering a standard, rectangular form with clean lines and no excessive or obtrusive features other than the strong right hand grip below the shutter. The 2-tier zoom lens retracts into the front face of the camera and is secured by a lens cover.  

The back of the camera features an appropriately proportioned 1.8 inch LCD screen and an extraordinarily small and poorly situated real image viewfinder (placed directly above the LCD screen). The right side of the camera is formed with a strong grip extending out from the camera body. While this will hinder portability to some extent, the gripping protrusion is sure to offer far more support and stability than the right sides of most compact point-and-shoot models currently available. This is the general tradeoff with the A510 - users will sacrifice some pocket portability and stylistic integrity for added handling and control. For a point-and-shoot model, the A510 offers a relatively unique blend of portability and shooting ease along with an affordable price, governed by the limited resolution and lack of fashion appeal.  

**Size / Portability ***(6.5)*

The Canon PowerShot A510 is designed to fit comfortably within the user's hand during use. To aid in portability, the camera also sports a wrist strap on the side. Without protrusions, the A510 spans 3.57 x 2.52 x 1.51 inches (13.58 inches cubed) in its entirety. This is relatively thin given the camera's substantial right hand grip and usable form. When the lens retracts, the front face of the camera becomes flat and will slide easily into a large pocket or bag for transport. While the A510 is not the smallest point-and-shoot digital camera out there, Canon has molded the form to be compact and portable as well as easily controllable when in use.  

**Handling Ability ***(7.0)*

The main controls on the back of the Canon PowerShot A510 are all smoothly accessible with the thumbs of either hand. Pictures can easily be shot with one hand due to the small body size and light weight along with the additional right hand gripping protrusion. The LCD screen is pronounced and easily visible, but unfortunately, Canon kept the viewfinder on the body and did not modify the window to make it more usable. The size of the camera body seems to be ideal - small enough for transport and large enough for use, but unfortunately the body is void of texture, making it somewhat difficult to get a secure hold of the frame. The large right hand grip will help with one handed shooting, but nothing comparable is offered for the left hand. The lack of texture will also become problematic in rainy shooting conditions or if trying to shoot with sweaty palms.  

**Control Button / Dial Positioning / Size ***(7.0)*

Overall the controls are well placed and appropriately sized on the Canon PowerShot A510. The 1.8 inch LCD screen allows for easy viewing and the buttons surrounding it are clearly separated and labeled. The mode dial is easy to control using the right thumb and the microphone is thankfully placed on the front of the camera, far away from the pillaging fingers of less astute users. In line with an increasing trend, the zoom ring is formed around the shutter button; some users may be opposed to this, but it's not too difficult to get used to. Canon also diverges from compact digital camera convention in their A-series design with the continuous form of the navigational dial. Unlike many other digital cameras, this four-way controller connects the cardinal directions in a continuous ring around the selection button, making accurate selection far more difficult for large-fingered or arthritic users.

**

Menu ***(7.0)*

The menus for the Canon PowerShot A510 are clearly accessed by depressing the Menu button, located beneath the center of the LCD screen on the back of the camera body. This menu set-up utilized by Canon unfortunately does not allow for a live image to appear in the background and demonstrate the effect of alterations to the image. The menu structure is vertically aligned with three menu subsections available. There are three general headings within the main menu: Rec./Play, Set-up, and the My Camera sub-set. The Rec. menu allows the user to alter control options that affect the image size/quality and image construct. The Set-up menu controls the camera functions such as volume levels, power source, and date. Finally, the My Camera Menu enables the user to customize the camera in terms of sounds, start-up, and other extraneous settings. The menu structure is list-based and fairly logical with intuitive subsections that are easily entered, though the repetition of text takes its toll on the eyes, particularly following utilization of the viewfinder.

**Ease of Use ***(7.0)*

The controls on this camera are all easy to access and the 1.8 inch LCD screen is large enough to allow for clear viewing. The four-way controller is a bit more complicated than need be and it would be nice if there had been some separation between main directional controls. The vertical menu structure is intuitive and easy to navigate with the controller, enabling quick scrolling through options, though it unfortunately does not display the live image in the background. The direct print options provide an easy way to export images and complete the photo process.

Modes

 

Auto Mode ***(7.5)***

The auto mode for the Canon PowerShot A510 is entered using the mode dial on the top of the camera body. When in Auto mode, users retain control of focal length (zoom), flash mode, burst mode, AF frame selection, and Macro Mode engagement. Sensitivity rating (ISO), White Balance setting, Focus, Shutter speed, and aperture is assumed by the camera, determining the exposure for the shot.

The A510 performed admirably in Automatic mode. The camera selected a low (and appropriate) ISO setting in ample lighting and helped to ensure that a clean image was recorded. The Auto white balance function was effective, though the reproduced colors were extremely over-saturated. Of course, that embellished almost pastel look is preferred for many digital camera users and was clearly a conscious adjustment by Canon.

**Movie Mode ***(4.5)*

The movie mode for the Canon PowerShot A510 is certainly one of the camera's glaring weaknesses. Users can capture full resolution 640 x 480 video clips at a ridiculously slow recording rate of 10 frames per second or can decrease the resolution to 320 x 240 or 160 x 120 and record at 15 frames per second - not much of an improvement. Either way, the video is going to look choppy and jagged. In all of these settings, video clips can only be captured for up to 30 seconds. The AE, AF, white balance and zoom settings are all locked when the camera is capturing footage and may only be accessed prior to shooting.

**Drive / Burst Mode ***(7.5)*

There is a burst mode available on the Canon PowerShot A510 which can be set by entering the Func. menu. In regular shooting mode, the lag between shots could take up to five seconds--a sloth-like delay. In burst mode the speed improves to 2.3 shots per second, but burst mode has its own limitations. The flash may be used, but the delay between shots will be increased to compensate for this added feature. This higher speed is also only attainable if the image settings are at Large/Fine setting and the LCD Monitor is off. With the monitor on the user will get a much slower shot to shot speed.

**Playback Mode ***(7.5)*

When the Canon PowerShot A510 is switched to Playback mode, the user is able to view previously captured images in either a multi-up nine image format or in a single image screen. Multi-up format viewing is immediately initiated by moving the zoom lever to the multi-up insignia. The user can then use the four-way controller to navigate previously captured images in a thumbnail format and quickly select images to be viewed individually. To view movies, the user can select the clip from the playback selections and navigate the play, rewind, off, and stop settings located in a bar on the bottom of the LCD screen. These are controlled by pressing the left and right arrows of the four-way controller.

**Custom Image Presets ***(8.0)*

There are a number of general purpose image presets available to the user of the Canon PowerShot A510. These controls are placed on the mode dial which may be set to Portrait, Night Scene, Slow Shutter, Fast Shutter, Landscape, Special Scene, and Stitch Assist for the construction of multi-image panoramic shoots. The Scene mode setting offers another range of present options such as Foliage, Snow, Beach, Fireworks, Underwater, Indoor, Kids and Pets, and Night Snapshot. With both options available, automatic users of the A510 who prefer to render a single selection for the exposure and shooting controls will have more than enough options to cover most shooting situations.

Control Options

**Manual Control Options
**Many of the Canon PowerShot A510's manual control options are not placed directly on the camera body, but rather inside a menu. The exceptions are general modes, located on the primary mode dial, along with flash and AF settings which are accessible via the four-way controller when the camera is in regular shooting mode. The bulk of the A510's manual shooting controls are housed within the on-screen Func. Menu. Within the Func. menu, users can access and set most pertinent image parameters. Among these settings are: Manual Focus, ISO, White Balance, Aperture Priority, Shutter Speed Priority, Exposure Compensation, and Metering.

**Focus ***

Auto (7.5)*

The auto focus settings for the Canon PowerShot A510 are located within the on-screen menu and offer a slight amount of user control. Relying on a 9-point AiAF autofocus system, the A510 also provides a 1-point AF setting, which reads the frame from the center of the composition. The user is able to choose which one the camera uses by entering the menu and selecting the 'on' or 'off' options under the focus heading. The menu setting for this option merely says 'on' and 'off', designating the 9-point AiAF setting or a single point focus, linked to the 'off' selection. Turning off this setting does not mean that the user is somehow turning off the auto focus on the camera. An AF lock feature is applied to the shutter release button, as it is on many point-and-shoot models, engaged by partial depression. There is also an AF-assist illuminator that can be turned on or off which is included to help the camera focus in low light situations. Although this is a considerate inclusion by Canon, the feature itself is fairly useless. The beam does fire, but the camera still displays considerable difficulty focusing in low light.
*

Manual (3.5)*

The manual focus setting is controlled by the down arrow on the four-way controller. The PowerShot A510 will allow users to control focus manually by using an indicator bar which will appear at the bottom of the LCD screen. When the camera is in Av, Tv, or M modes the user can press the SET button to switch between the manual focus indicator, the shutter speed for the camera, and the aperture settings. The actual focal length is controlled through the left and right arrows on the four-way controller and adjusting it can get quite cumbersome. 

**Metering ***(7.5)*

The metering settings for the Canon PowerShot A510 are adjustable when the camera is in P, Tv, Av or M modes and offers three settings: evaluative, center-weighted, and spot metering.  

The evaluative setting will meter the entire composition and determine an appropriate overall exposure for the complete frame. Center-weighted metering gives priority to the center of the composition, balancing the exposure with the rest of the frame. Spot metering emphasizes only the centralized potion of the frame. Users can meter for a specific object with the spot metering option by framing the subject in the center of the shot, then partially depressing the shutter until focus and exposure lock are reached. Once locked, users can reframe the shot and fully release the shutter. Metering settings are located within the Func. menu of the Canon PowerShot A510.

**Exposure ***(7.0)*

Exposure compensation on the A510 ranges from -2 and +2, moving in 1/3 stop increments. This is a standard range for compact cameras and the A510's accessible layout offers a more user-friendly alternative than the full exposure control, which could be daunting for beginners.

**White Balance ***(7.5)*

White Balance, like ISO, is accessed through the Func. menu on the Canon PowerShot A510. The White Balance settings allow the user to select between a fully automatic setting, various presets, and custom mode. The presets available are: Auto, Daylight, Cloudy, Tungsten, Fluorescent, and Fluorescent H. The White Balance settings are controllable in all modes but scene and auto modes.

The A510's automatic white balance setting is effective, orienting the camera to an exact white value; however, the resulting warm tones are extremely embellished and appear quite over-saturated, though I'm sure that's how Canon intended it.

ISO ***(7.5)***

The A510 will allow users to manually set the camera's ISO rating. ISO settings are contained within the Func. menu. The active ISO setting will appear on the left side of the LCD screen and may be highlighted by scanning the menu using the four-way controller. Once highlighted, the user will be able to select between 50, 100, 200, and 400. Traditionally, the A-series PowerShot cameras have been known for their crystal-like clarity when using the ISO 50 rating, but they have always performed poorly when the rating is pushed beyond 100, displaying excessive noise and distortion using the ISO 200 and 400 ratings. Fortunately, the A510 goes against the grain and performs admirably at the highest ISO setting (400), so potential consumers rest assured: extraneous noise is within the user's control.

**Shutter Speed ***(7.0)*

Surprisingly, the affordable and consumer-friendly PowerShot A510 offers users full control of shutter speed in both full Manual mode as well as in the Shutter Priority setting (signified by the obtuse Tv label). The shutter duration can be set between 15 and 1/2000 seconds. Users can alter the shutter speed settings by pressing the SET button in the center of the four-way controller and moving the highlighted cursor over to the shutter settings. Settings are scrolled through using the directional pad on the back of the camera.

Aperture ***(7.0)***

Users can manually set the aperture opening for the shot using either the full Manual or Aperture Priority shooting modes. Aperture settings for the A510 range between f/2.6 and f/8.0 and are controlled via an on-screen menu, just as shutter speed is adjusted. Aperture levels (F-stops) define how open the iris should be, which in turn determines the amount of light passed through the lens.

Image Parameters

Picture Quality / Size Options ***(7.5)***

The picture quality and size options for the Canon PowerShot A510 are also located in the Func. menu. This setting first displays the possible resolution settings of L (2048 x 1536), M1 (1600 x 1200), M2 (1024 x 768), and S (640 x 480). Once the resolution is chosen, the user can press the SET button located in the center of the four-way controller and select a compression level of Superfine, Fine, and Normal. Movies on the Canon PowerShot A510 can be shot in 640 x 480, 320 x 240, or 160 x 120 format.

**Picture Effects Mode ***(7.5)*

When the user of the Canon PowerShot A510 enters the Func. menu, they are able to set the effects mode to vivid, neutral, low sharpening, sepia, B/W, or off. These settings may be easily turned on and off at any time without having to enter the full on-screen menu, a distinct advantage when shooting at a faster rate. The offered effects on the A510 are fairly standard.

Connectivity / Extras

Connectivity
Software (6.0)

This camera comes equipped with a Canon Digital Camera Solution Disc which allows the user to print, edit, and reconfigure images on personal computer systems.

Jacks, Ports, Plugs (6.0)

The left side of the Canon PowerShot A510 features a terminal cover that leads to three connection ports for the camera, all condensed within a small vertical space: DC in, USB terminal, and A/V out.

Direct Print Options (7.0)

The A510 has direct print capabilities in several formats. This camera is able to use Canon Direct Print, Bubble Jet Direct, and PictBridge printers.

**

**Memory (6.5)

The memory card slot is located beneath a door on the bottom edge of the camera's back face. This door is one of the better designs for memory card slots I have seen; a simple flip opens it right up and the memory card can be easily slid into position. This camera ships with a 16 MB SD/MMC memory card.

Other Features ***(5.5)***
*Remote Control -*When this camera is connected to a PC via USB connection, the user is able to remotely control the Canon PowerShot A510 camera with the included exclusive software.

*Accessory High Power Flash HF-DC1-*This accessory flash connects to the left side of the camera body and allows the user to shoot distance shots with a flash when the built-in flash is insufficient.

*Underwater Housing - *The A510 can shoot underwater if the user purchases the waterproof case that was designed by Canon specifically for this camera model. The camera is NOT waterproof by itself; the additional case is required.

Overall Impressions

**Value ***(7.5)*

Available for under $200 online, the A510 provides full manual exposure controls, including both aperture and shutter priority settings. With a 1/2.5 inch 3.2 MP CCD and enlarged 4x optical zoom lens, the camera has competitive components for its price bracket. With a strong improvement shooting in higher ISO ratings, along with the accessory options available, the A510 is quite a value.

Comparisons
[

Canon PowerShot A75*](../specs/Canon/PowerShot%20A75.htm) — *The A510 is a direct descendant of the PowerShot A75; both cameras have 3.3 total megapixels, 3.2 effective megapixels, and a 1.8-inch LCD screen. The A75 was released at almost the same time last year, but sold for a pricier $249. The Canon A75 has a shorter 35-105mm 3x optical zoom lens in a slightly heavier 7-ounce body. The cameras have similar modes and even have optical viewfinders, which are a disappearing feature.

---

**

• **[*

  

Olympus **Camedia 545*](../specs/Olympus/D-545.htm) -*The Olympus Camedia 545 retails online for a near identical price to the A510, but comes with a larger 1/2.5 inch 4.0 MP CCD and a smaller 3x optical zoom lens. The Camedia 545 is capable of recording still images at three resolution levels and video at two. The Camedia 545 does not allow for audio recording. A great number of scene modes (nineteen to be exact) are included on the Camedia 545, providing far more shooting flexibility to point-and-shoot users, but like the Photosmart 635, the Camedia 545 falls short of the A510 in available manual control options. 14 MB of internal storage is built into the 545. Like the A510, the Camedia 545 is direct print capable and equipped with a USB 2.0 port. There is also an optical zoom viewfinder but the 545's 1.8 inch LCD screen only has 85,000 pixels.

Who It’s For
*Point-and-Shooters *- For the point-and-shoot user, this camera is ideal. With strong performance in auto mode, along with a hefty set of manual options, users of the A510 can shoot right out of the box and will have room to grow into manual controls.

*Budget Consumers -*Retailing for under $200 online, the A510 gives the budget consumer a viable option. The camera is compact, stocked with manual control, and incredibly affordable.

*Gadget Freaks *- This camera doesn't come with a lot of additions; it is a simple, straightforward, small camera. Although there are manual controls and accessory lens and flash options, for the true gadget freak, these basics will quickly grow old.

*Manual Control Freaks - *For an affordable point-and-shoot camera, the A510 contains as many manual controls as anything in its price range, though true freaks will be expecting more.

**

*Pros/Serious Hobbyists -*Other than as an expendable vacation substitute, there is no reason for the pro or serious hobbyist to buy this camera.

Conclusion

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**Conclusion
**The Canon PowerShot A510's small compact frame will greatly please the point-and-shoot user looking for an introductory camera with solid performance. The simple physical design comes equipped with a wide variety of manual control options - a surprising trait for a point-and-shoot camera which is currently available online for $179.95. Equipped with a 1/2.5 inch 3.2 MP CCD, the camera performs in line with the conventional Canon reputation. Unlike many PowerShot models before it, the A510 effectively suppresses noise in higher ISO ratings and works well in auto mode. The A510 is also quite flexible for an introductory digital camera, allowing for the application of external 'slave' flash and conversion lens units. Still capture capabilities on the A510 greatly exceeded expectations, but unfortunately the video recording mode did not. Interested consumers will have to make the sacrifice. The A510 records full resolution video at 10 fps, which is a third of the rate needed for full, fluid motion, so you can imagine how choppy the final clip appears. With a slow shooting rate, users will also have to pick between quality and speed. The dismal shot to shot lag time is significant enough to be problematic for many shooting situations. All around there are some major drawbacks to the camera - it certainly will not compete with some of the $500 and up models that have been released this year, but for well under $200 and dropping, the A510 will provide reliable image quality, shooting flexibility, and an opportunity for beginners to expand their photographic knowledge and grow into the camera.

Specs / Ratings

**Specs Table
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