Canon Digital IXUS 90 IS

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By Rich Trenholm, CNET.co.uk
Mar 18, 2008

The Canon Digital IXUS 90 IS is in the middle of the latest trio to join the ever-popular and ever-stylish IXUS range. The question is, as ever, whether these cool kids of the compact camera world are just a severe case of style over substance.

Our first impressions of the classy exterior are good, but how long will they last when we take the 10-megapixel camera out to test?

Editors' note:

This review is based on tests done by our sister site CNET.co.uk. As such, please note that there may be slight differences in the testing procedure and ratings system. For more information on the actual tests conducted on the product, please inquire directly at the site where the article was originally published. References made to some other products in this review may not be available or applicable in Asia.

Design

Canon shows us that retro designs are still in with the IXUS 90 IS.
(click for larger image)

As always, Canon doesn't disappoint us on the styling front. The IXUS 90 has a retro, boxy feel, but with angled elements to give it a modern twist. The inflexible metal frame and clean lines radiate understated �lan. The lens is flush-folding, and the rear of the camera sports a large 76mm (3-inch) screen. If we had a quibble with the design, it's that the symbols on the controls look cluttered.

The controls themselves are unusual. Instead of buttons, areas of the frame flex when pressed. There isn't quite enough flex to give satisfying tactile feedback, but it's still interesting.

The IXUS 90 uses a scroll wheel that also functions as a clickpad. The action, initially at least, is stiff. The similar-sized wheel on some Nikon Coolpix models has ridges that are easier for the thumb to push against, while the IXUS 90's tiny raised goosepimples afford less traction. We like scroll wheels as it is a quick and easy method to switch modes, as well as providing access functions like panorama stitch assist and color filters. But Canon needs to tweak the design slightly.

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