Canon SD850 or Fuji F40FD

[NuclearBlast]

Which one should I choose? Let's assume that I don't care about the price difference or the 4x vs. 3x optical zoom or manual controls. What I do care first and foremost is picture quality especially in Auto mode (or some of the other pre-set modes). I'm a true point&shooter :cheesygri and sadly don't have the time or patience to master all those "exposure" or "ISO" things. I'm doing 50/50 shoots outside/inside. What if I had to choose between Canon SD870 and the Fuji, would that change the verdict? I kinda like the "wide angle" idea and being able to make group or landscape shots that span more. Thanks in advance.

[KorruptioN]

Both the SD850IS and the F40fd have lenses that cover roughly the same range. The SD850IS is more of a solid choice, I say. Image stabilization, and the lack of manual controls won't bother you. You do get higher ISO performance with the F40fd, but again, this probably won't matter most of the time.

[goofball]

If you're going to stay in Auto mode, then I would say it doesn't really matter as the built-in flash will fire (unless you disable it) for most of the indoor shots.

[looniepincher]

And I actually own the Fuji.

If you're just going to shoot Auto and want consistent results, get the Canon.

Personally, I think the Fuji wins IQ-wise and high-ISO-wise but you have to fiddle with the cam settings to get those results. Less "keepers" with the Fuji.

I'd get the Fuji but it sounds like you should get the Canon

[looniepincher]

If you're going to stay in Auto mode, then I would say it doesn't really matter as the built-in flash will fire (unless you disable it) for most of the indoor shots.

Actually, because of its high-ISO performance, the Fuji would win out in flashless low light situations.

[l69norm]

Which one should I choose? Let's assume that I don't care about the price difference or the 4x vs. 3x optical zoom or manual controls. What I do care first and foremost is picture quality especially in Auto mode .....

Assuming auto mode and 4X6 photos, if you shoot mostly indoor pictures=F40fd. Mostly outdoor pictures = 850IS. It's not that either camera can't do the other, just they are more at home in their own areas.

F40fd has a bigger sensor so it can use higher ISO settings with the flash for indoor pictures. The flash indoor pictures won't look as harsh (bright foreground, no background light). It also gives you the option to take a flash & flashless picture simultaneously so you can pick the best one later.

Outside, the disadvantages of the Canon's smaller sensor disappear.

http://www.steves-digicams.com/2007_reviews/fuji_f40fd.html
http://www.steves-digicams.com/2007_reviews/canon_sd850.html