Small digital cameras are available with many of the same features available in the full-size models. The only feature that is typically sacrificed, in order to reduce size, is a zoom lens. The Canon digital camera Power Shot SD780IS is an exception.

Weighing little more than 4 ounces, the SD780IS comes with a 4X digital zoom. Of course, not everyone needs a zoom lens, but outdoor enthusiasts typically appreciate the feature. It allows them to get up close and personal with the wildlife, while still remaining at a safe distance.

Ultra small digital cameras are lighter in weight, but the clarity of the image produced is not as good. One of the factors affecting clarity is the number of megapixels.

You can use the number of megapixels to compare between models and manufacturers. For example, one of the smallest models on the market today is the “Blink”. But, with only .3 megapixels, you may be disappointed in the images that you get.

With the SD780IS Canon digital camera, you get a total of 12.4 megapixels. Generally speaking, a higher megapixel count equals higher clarity or “resolution” of the image. So, it comes down to choosing between size and weight or high quality images. Some people really don’t notice the difference.

The 780IS is not the smallest Canon digital camera. The S200 is even smaller, taking up a total of only 171 millimeters of total space. That’s width plus height plus depth. By comparison the Style Cam Blink takes up 115mm of space.

Other manufacturers make ultra small digital cameras, too. The Sony Cyber-shot provides 2.0 megapixels and takes up 154mm of total spice. The Style Cam Groove goes up to 174mm of space, but still provides only 1.3 megapixels.

Casio, Pentax, Minolta, and Fuji make models smaller than 180mm total, with megapixels as high as 3.2. One of the reasons that Style Cam is a big seller is because of the price. The Blink II is 10% of the price of the Casio EXZ3.

An ultra-small Canon digital camera will cost somewhere between $200 and $400. So, it’s a pretty big investment for most people. Style Cams are available for less than $50. For people that tend to lose or break things, a smaller investment may be a wiser one.

High price does not always equal high quality, but in the electronics world it is usually a good indicator. In other words, you get what you pay for with small digital cameras.