On paper, the Canon PowerShot S95 seems like a minor upgrade to the already excellent PowerShot S90: addition of HD video. The S95 looks and feels very similar to the S90 in hand despite having a matte body surface. Another small change, an improvement, is the position-swap of the 'on/off' and 'ring func.' buttons.

 

Hardware aside, image quality of the S95 is just as excellent as the S90's. For us, the most interesting enhancement is the addition of the 1:1 square image format (but it's something that should easily be done via firmware for the S90 without having to make a new camera!) At citinomad.com, we like the 1:1 square format a lot and used it to shoot the Mekong Delta picture series.

 

What can't easily be achieved by firmware alone is the noticeable improvement in shooting response. The S95 focuses and shoots more quickly than its predecessor. Its continuous shooting mode is impressive, it can shoot as long as you press the release button.

 

The battery's life is not great, but understandable because it's small. Get one or two extra, problem solved.

 

Overall, the S95 is ideal for the advanced photographer who wants a top-quality pocketable camera, and doesn't need a massive zoom range.

 

For those who don't need absolute top-notch image quality, but a more versatile camera for general use and travel, check out these compact superzooms: Panasonic Lumix ZS7, Sony Cyber-shot HX5V.

 

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HIGH

• quick and easy to use
• excellent image quality
• good in low-light without flash

• full photographic controls
• very compact, solidly-built
• excellent, fast 28-105mm zoom lens
• effective optical image stabilization
• raw, raw + jpeg modes
• excellent 3.0" LCD
• front control ring
• impressive continuous mode
• HDMI output

 

MIND

• no video optical zoom
• battery life

WISE

• excellent pocketable camera for the enthusiast; a nomad's favorite