Tips on Digital Camera Buying

Tips on Digital Camera Buying
by David Ford


Tips on Digital Camera Buying Things to keep in mind when purchasing a Digital Camera at Auction
By DAVID FORD
Introduction I have bought and sold many digital cameras both at auction and new from retailers. When buying a digital camera you should keep in mind your purpose, budget and features and select the appropriate searches to target suitable models. Some key points are illustrated in the next section. Items for Consideration * A larger factor optical zoom at minimum 3x is always referrable than a large digital zoom factor which magnifies the image at the expense of quality. The higher the optical zoom range you can afford the better a bare minimum would be 3x.
* Make sure the number of maximum megapixels is adequate for your needs. The higher the number of megapixels the more expensive the camera will be and the larger the image you can print. For everyday use 5 megapixels is adequate.
As a guide the print size and quality per megapixels is roughly:
Max Print Size Buy a camera with Resolution 4 x 6" 2 megapixels 1600 x 1200 5 x 7" 3 megapixels 2048 x 1536 8 x1 0" 5 megapixels 2560 x 1920 11 x 14" 6 megapixels 2816 x 2112 16 x 20" 8 megapixels 3264 x 2468
* Make sure the camera allows you to adjust the quality of the image to various megapixel settings this will allow you to take more shots.
* Most cameras come with very little memory capability. Extra memory can be bought through auction at very reasonable prices compared to store costs often saving up to 50 %. The more memory you can afford the better. As a guide a minimum of 256 megabyte should be considered.
* If you buy a discounted camera as new from an ebay store or commercial seller it is worthwhile checking with the manufacturer on their website if you can purchase extended warranty. I have had cameras fail just after the 12 month warranty period and have had to buy new replacements due to the cost of an out of warranty repair.
* Ensure the camera comes with software and cables to allow viewing and download of pictures onto personal computers.
* Finally if buying at auction ensure that :
 the seller has good positive feedback scores and selling history.
 pay by credit card for any purchases over $100 to ensure you can get your money back in case the goods are not received.
 Ensure postage costs are reasonable
 If you find and item you like unless it is "buy it now" out your bid in right before closing to increase your chances of winning.
I've had most success with finding digital cameras and related accessories especially memory using auction sites such as Ebay.
Auction site resellers also provide a convenient way to find digital camera bargains using targeted searches.
Some useful links for resellers and auction sites are:
Buy Digital CameraseBayOverstock.com
About the Author
I have had extensive experience in buying and selling digital cameras via Auction sites and wish to pass on tips for those wishing to buy digital cameras at auction.
Reproduction allowed with permission.
Copyright David Ford 2006.