Quick Take

Pros

Nice compact and stylish body; Superb low-light performance thanks to the HS System and fast F2.0 lens; Typical (good) Digital ELPH performance; High-speed burst mode settings; 3.2fps @ full 10-megapixel resolution or up to 8.3fps @2.5M; Capable Smart Auto; Excellent high ISO performance up to ISO 1600; Still offers some manual options; Av and Tv modes; Captures nice HD video; Optical zoom is operable in movie mode; Good battery life

Cons

LCD uses a wide aspect ratio, which creates a smaller view when using the highest 10M still image setting due to standard 4:3 aspect; Metering system produced some strong exposures with some subjects in harsh sunlight; Higher price tag of $349 US

Bottom Line

The Canon PowerShot SD4000 IS is a very appealing compact model that boasts pleasing image quality, robust shooting performance, high-quality HD video, and loads of exposure options for all users. This one comes highly recommended from the staff here at Steve's. Read more in our Full Conclusion.

Canon's latest Digital ELPH model, the PowerShot SD4000 IS is an ultra-compact camera that boasts some impressive features. These include Canon's new HS (High Sensitivity) System, which incorporates a fast 10-megapixel back-illuminated CMOS image sensor with their DIGIC 4 image processor. To further enhance this models low-light capabilities, Canon equipped the SD4000 IS with a fast f/2.0 3.8x optical zoom lens, which also features their proven optical image stabilization system.

Canon PowerShot SD4000 IS key features include:

• 10-megapixel, 1/2.3-inch, BSI CMOS image sensor
• DIGIC 4 processor
  
• A 3.0-inch wide view LCD screen with 230k dots
• 3fps Burst mode at full resolution; High-speed burst @ 2.5M also available
  
• 720p HD video recording
• New Super Slow Motion Movie function
• New creative scene modes, like Low-Light, Miniature and Fisheye Effect
• Smart Auto exposure mode
  
• Aperture and Shutter speed priority modes for even more control
• Li-ion power source
• SD/SDHC/SDXC/MMC Plus memory card slot (Eye-Fi compatible)
• HDMI output
  

Canon claims that the SD4000 IS offers consumers the most enhanced image quality available in an ELPH series camera. The SD4000 IS will be offered in Red, Black and Silver for an estimated price of $349US. There is also a limited edition White model available directly from Canon's online store while supplies last.

What's in the box?:

• PowerShot SD4000 camera
• Wrist strap
• AV cable
• USB cable
• Digital Camera Solution CD-ROM
• Li-ion battery NB-6L
• Battery charger CB-2LY