Review on 📷 Enhanced Canon Powershot A620 7.1MP Digital Camera with 4x Optical Zoom by Andrew Kay

I have been completely satisfied with the performance and capabilities of my Canon PowerShot A620 from the day I opened the box. Contrary to some users, I had no problem uploading photos from my camera using Canon's "Camera Window" software (for Windows and Mac). But I have a Mac - maybe there are problems with the Windows version. After 4 months I bought my daughter a "virtual twin" A610 (6 megapixels instead of 7.1) - her first digital camera. We were both very happy with the quality of the shots and the ease of getting good photographic results. I took very good care of my camera, I loved it so much! Cons: Excellent battery life with rechargeable NiMha batteries, image size 3072 x 2304 produces great poster sized prints (and up to wallet sized prints). Amazing Macro Focus - You can create chicken-sized images of honey bees. The downsides were minor: only 4x zoom and the flash is a bit small (but causes slight red-eye and is easy to fix). Additionally, all point-and-shoot digital cameras seem to be too prone to rain, which is common in most climates. Putting them in an expensive waterproof case limits portability, recording, and microphone capabilities. (Otherwise, videos have almost amazing audio quality from the tiny built-in microphone.) Until my A620 suddenly let out a loud squeak and displayed "E18" on the LCD screen. The lens mount was stuck when I turned the camera on; This caused the drive motor to strip the gears that extend and retract the lens barrel. This happened after 3000 photos, several dozen (very good) videos and 7 months and 7 days of frequent (problem-free) use. I "thought" I heard the characteristic sounds of the gears before they collapsed, but the difference in sound was negligible, and I thought maybe that's how it felt to me. Research on the internet found that this problem (known as error E18) has been fixed. long enough to file a class action lawsuit against Canon over it. Now I have sent my camera to Canon and am waiting for their reply. They have a very good 'support' webpage and within a few hours they sent an email with detailed instructions on how to return the camera and what to expect in terms of waiting time etc. Will I buy another Canon PowerShot? Yes, a few hours after the glitch, I checked out their PowerShot S3-1S, 6 megapixels and grabbed one on the spot. The S3 is a definite upgrade over the A620: 12x zoom, great "image stabilization" and a much stronger build (along with the extra 8 ounces of weight). I intend to continue using the A620 after the repair as it is convenient to carry (I use a carrying case on my belt). But while I think the A6*0 series is a lemon, Canon is releasing a lot of good models alongside them. I'm just sorry I bought my daughter a 'little brother' (A610) because we now know it can break too.