Canon PowerShot E1

Canon PowerShot E1

Canon PowerShot E1

Camera resolution: 10 megapixels
Video resolutions: 640×480
Optical zoom: 4x
Screen size: 2.5″
Video speed: 30 fps

Pros: Good feature set for the asking price, pleasingly old school design, decent image quality

Cons: Low-grade LCD screen, might be too chunky for funky “yoof” types

The final word: The Canon PowerShot E1 is an impressive entry-level compact camera aimed primarily at kids and skint teens. It offers a nice array of features for the asking price and takes adequate photos to boot. All in all, a solid offering.

IT’S not easy being a “tween”. For some reason, Generation Y has become the “go-to” demographic when it comes to cheap ‘n’ cheerful cameras. While they may look suitably funky, the majority of these “youth-centric” cameras share the same terminal flaw – an abundance of style over functionality.

We consequently weren’t expecting much from Canon’s PowerShot E1, particularly after reading the hysterical marketing blurb (the words “colourful”, “trendy” and “fun” all featured prominently). However, it turns out our fears were mostly unfounded. As far as youth-orientated cameras go, this is a surprisingly accomplished offering that doesn’t skimp on the bells and whistles. Sporting an impressive 10 megapixel CCD sensor, adjustable ISO settings, in-camera red eye correction, an optical image stabiliser and face detection technology, it’s one of the better sub-$250 compacts on the market. Despite some minor imaging issues it will make an ideal first camera for a young wannabe photographer.

In terms of design, the E1 is a retro throwback to the compact cameras of old, albeit with an ergonomic twist. Eschewing the metallic sleekness of its trendier rivals, the unit is characterised by its chunky body, centred lens and cute optical viewfinder. We’re not sure how well this will go down with the iPod generation, but it remains quite portable nonetheless.