Nikon Coolpix 4300 vs Olympus 3040

[gtan]

Hi guys,

need some advice as I'm getting my first digital camera.

Uses: Usually Landscape and outdoor pictures, buildings.

I was actually targetting the Coolpix 885 but its discontinued and the replacement was the 4300, but I know its 3MP vs 4MP.

Anyway, heres what I liked about each. My requirement is only a 3MP cam, but Nikon doesn't seem to have a 3MP I like (except 885). I would also like at least 3x optical zoom.

Nikon Coolpix 4300
- cheaper than Oly 3040
- 4MP
- CF

Olympus 3040
- 3MP good enough
- bright, fast lens
- AA batt

Basically the accessories I will get for each are:
- Adapter + polariser
- UV filter
- Extra batt (rechargable for Nikon, 8x AA + charger for Oly)
- Extra storage (128mb CF/SD)
- Dry box

Can anyone give me their thoughts? I'll be bringing the camera overseas for quite long term, is there international warranty or something?

Also, does anyone know the current pricing for the above items at Alan Photo or Cathay? The e-quote hasn't arrived yet.

btw, is the Olympus 3020 an alternative? discontinued?

The reason why I'm comparing them of diff MP (3 vs 4) is because my actual requirement is only 3MP. Its just that Nikon discontinued the 885.

TIA!

 

[sneezybum]

Originally posted by gtan

Also, does anyone know the current pricing for the above items at Alan Photo or Cathay? The e-quote hasn't arrived yet.
TIA!

Played around with the 4300 last week. Pretty nice feel to it. Small and compact. Price is $870 as quoted frm CP if i remember correctly.

Pardon me. you might also like to consider the C730. ALso 3mp, use AA batt and plus got 10x zoom. Pretty good camera too. Some CSers bought for $840, i tink

 

[dennisc]

a camera site categorise 3040 (retail/release price at us1000) as higher end prosumer for 3.4mp, in league with nikon 900 950 etc. nikon 4300 (Us 449)as higher end easy semi pro to consumer friendly 4mp.
both resolutions tested are almost the same though.
Well for me I'm changing my 3040. Dont get me wrong, it has served me very well.
Its a good camera if you get the hang of it otherwise prone to overexposure, accurate skin tones.
with a 1600mh battery wihout lcd, one can take about.. 270shots (thats the most i've taken AND with the battery still useable)
heres a sample i took 2 days ago without a tripod, low res 1240X640, burst mode, pretty far away and low light, no flash:

 

[denizenx]

sell him lor LOL...