Canon Digital IXUS 85 IS

IXUS is possibly the biggest name in compact cameras, but are they a case of style over substance? Hello, I'm Richard Trenholm of CNET.co.uk, and this is the 10-megapixel Canon Digital IXUS 85 IS. Not to sound superficial, but as always with the IXUS range, the first thing you notice is the looks. The 85 is yet another stunner, a retro metal matte silver box with softly rounded corners and glinting lens ring. It does pick up fingerprints though. The problem is, IXUS cameras are increasingly looking like trust fund babies, getting by on the family name and inherited good looks rather than on their own achievements - and all for a relatively high price. In a camera market where larger screens are becoming the norm, we're not that keen on paying IXUS prices for just a 2.5-inch monitor. A 3x optical zoom is a bit disappointing too. Burst mode only manages 1.4 frames per second, and even the face detection has been left behind by other manufacturers' systems that can cope with faces in profile. Other features, such as optical image stabilisation, are welcome but not world-changing. Menus are logical and easy to use, and the screen is at least very crisp and bright. The shooting options are quickly accessible on this onscreen sidebar, with ISO speed, macro, burst and flash options accessed in one click from this clickpad. But probably the 85's biggest strength after its looks is the quality of images it produces. Colours are natural, and there is no trace of distortion or vignetting. We do like this cute little viewfinder, which is small but very sharp and clear. Battery life is also above average and the flash is powerful and even. The zoom is quiet and the zoom rocker has a satisfyingly substantial feel. If IXUS is going to keep it's place at the top of the point-and-shoot tree, the range is long overdue some ground-breaking features. But build quality is rock solid, images look fantastic, and so does the camera. I'm Richard Trenholm of CNET.co.uk, and this is the Canon Digital IXUS 85 IS.