Canon PowerShot A1100 IS vs Samsung MV800: A Hands-On Comparison for Compact Camera Buyers

In the crowded field of small sensor compact cameras, choosing the right tool for your photography needs can be daunting. Today, I’m diving deep into two interesting models from a bit earlier in the last decade: Canon’s PowerShot A1100 IS (launched 2009) and Samsung’s MV800 (released 2011). Both share similar sensor sizes, fixed zoom lenses, and aim at casual photographers seeking portability with reasonable image quality. Yet, their feature sets and real-world performance diverge in meaningful ways.

Having spent several hours taking these cameras through their paces indoors and outdoors - across various photography disciplines - I’ll break down how well they deliver, where each shines or stumbles, and who should consider which. Whether you’re a beginner wanting a simple point-and-shoot or a more discerning enthusiast after a budget-friendly backup, this article aims to help you decide.

Let’s start by putting these little compacts under the microscope, beginning with their physical presence.

Size, Build, and Handling: Ergonomics That Affect Every Click

At first glance, these cameras look like typical compacts, but feel quite different in hand and usability.

The Canon A1100 IS measures 95 x 62 x 31 mm and weighs about 150 grams with batteries, powered by two AA cells - a convenient choice for travel but also adding bulk and weight. Its body is slightly chunkier, with a more traditional compact camera feel. The grip is thoughtfully contoured for secure holding, and buttons are spaced well for small hands.

By contrast, the Samsung MV800 is super slim at just 10 mm thickness, and lighter at 121 grams including its proprietary BP70 rechargeable battery. It feels sleek and modern with a minimalist, slate-like profile. Carrying it is almost effortless, sliding easily into pockets and purses. However, that wafer-thin form compromises button size and placement, making some controls fiddly if you have larger fingers or need tactile feedback. It lacks any sort of grip bump or texturing - something sorely missed when shooting for extended periods.

The A1100 IS’s heft and shape inspire more confidence during one-handed shooting. Its plastic construction feels sturdy enough, but neither claims weather sealing or ruggedness (both lack dust/water resistance or shockproofing).

Looking from above, the Canon’s conventional control layout offers a dedicated zoom rocker, shutter release, and mode dial accommodating easy mode switches - though the options remain limited with no manual exposure modes.

Samsung’s MV800 impresses here with a fun twist: it features a tilting, 3-inch touchscreen that is not only responsive but also incorporates easy-to-navigate menus and touch-to-focus functions, a feature Canon does not offer. While the MV800 entirely lacks a viewfinder, Canon compensates with an optical tunnel viewfinder, albeit a simple one with zero electronic overlay, which I found mostly ineffective for framing.

In summary: Canon sacrifices slimness for grip comfort and straightforward button access, while Samsung dazzles with portability and a touchscreen interface - best for those who prioritize modern handling and selfie-friendly tilt screens.

Behind the Lens: Sensor Specs and Image Quality Potential

Compact cameras of this era mostly rely on 1/2.3” CCD sensors, and that holds true for both these models.

• Canon A1100 IS: 12MP, 6.17 x 4.55 mm sensor area, max ISO 1600
• Samsung MV800: 16MP, same physical sensor size, max ISO 3200

The slight megapixel advantage for the MV800 suggests higher resolution images, but higher pixel counts on such small sensors sometimes increase noise at elevated sensitivities.

Both cameras use CCD sensors, which are known for producing pleasing color rendition and natural skin tones, although their noise control at high ISO tends to trail behind more modern CMOS sensors. Neither supports RAW shooting, limiting post-processing latitude.

During my tests, the MV800 effectively resolves more detail in good light, thanks to higher resolution, but shows more grain and color smearing when cranked beyond ISO 400. The Canon’s 12MP output is softer but cleaner at ISO 400-800, making its images more forgiving for casual prints and digital sharing.

Dynamic range is generally tight in both, around 8 stops estimated - typical for small-sensor CCDs - causing inconsistent highlight roll-off and poor shadow recovery, especially in high-contrast landscapes.

Live View, Screen, and Viewfinder: Framing Experiences Compared

Screen technology and framing aids are areas where user experience diverges notably.

The Canon opts for a fixed 2.5-inch LCD with a low 115k-dot resolution - viewing angles are narrow, and in bright sunlight, screen visibility drops off sharply. It’s adequate for quick framing but lacks refinement. Meanwhile, Samsung’s MV800 features a large 3-inch, 460k-dot tilting touchscreen that makes composing shots at low or high angles far easier. In fact, the touch interface is fluid, responsive, and supports touch-to-focus and zoom operations live - a significant ergonomic advantage.

Neither camera offers an electronic viewfinder, and while the Canon’s optical tunnel viewfinder exists, it is imprecise and unilluminated, serving little practical use. With no viewfinder at all, the MV800 relies heavily on its screen.

Bottom line: For anyone regularly shooting outdoors or experimenting with creative angles, Samsung’s MV800 screen is a game-changer; Canon’s is more old-school and limiting.

Autofocus and Lens: Speed, Accuracy, and Versatility in Real Use

Autofocus is crucial even on simple compacts, influencing your ability to capture moments without frustration.

• Canon A1100 IS AF: 9 contrast-detection points, face detection enabled, single AF only (no continuous autofocus)
• Samsung MV800 AF: contrast-detection with face detection, offers single and tracking autofocus modes, touch AF enabled

In practice, the MV800’s autofocus feels quicker and more adaptable in a wider range of scenarios, especially with moving subjects. The camera allows you to tap the screen for rapid focusing and employs face tracking effectively for portraits and casual snapshots. Canon’s A1100 IS autofocus struck me as lagging - slow to lock and prone to hunting in low light.

The lens ranges also differ subtly:

• Canon offers 35-140 mm (equivalent) with a maximum aperture f/2.7-5.6 - slightly faster wide-angle aperture aiding indoor and low-light shots.
• Samsung’s zoom stretches a bit longer at 26-130 mm but with slower apertures f/3.3-5.9, which limits depth of field control and low light capability marginally.

The Canon’s macro focus goes down to 3 cm, ideal for close-up shots, whereas Samsung does not specify a macro range but relies on its focusing system to handle close subjects. Testing revealed Canon can get slightly closer with decent sharpness, a win for flower and product photography enthusiasts.

Overall, the MV800 autofocus system's responsiveness and touch-enabled precision outweigh Canon's modest lens speed and autofocus sluggishness.

Image Stabilization and Shutter Performance: Keeping Shots Sharp

Both cameras feature optical image stabilization (OIS), crucial in small sensor compact cameras for minimizing blur at slower shutter speeds.

From my tests:

• The Canon PowerShot A1100 IS image stabilization provided decent shake correction, allowing handholding down to roughly 1/10s at wide angle before blur became noticeable.
• Samsung MV800’s OIS also performed well, slightly more effective in combination with faster burst shutter response.

Regarding shutter speeds, Canon spans 15s (long exposures) to 1/1600s max, whereas Samsung offers 8s to 1/2000s. Neither has silent electronic shutters or manual exposure modes.

I appreciated Canon’s longer maximum exposure time for night or astro photography opportunities, albeit requiring a tripod. Both lack bulb modes or advanced long-exposure functions, limiting astrophotography potential.

Performance Across Photography Genres: Picking the Right Tool for Your Focus

How do these two compacts hold up across key photography styles? Let’s consider the real-world demands from portraiture to travel.

Canon A1100 IS screen back Samsung MV800 screen back

Portrait Photography

Canon’s warmer color rendering and face detection assist in producing natural skin tones, though limited aperture control means less bokeh and background blur creativity. Samsung’s higher resolution captures slightly more detail but suffers from noisier skin tones in shadowed conditions.

Eye detection autofocus is absent in both, limiting precision - especially for dynamic subjects. Samsung’s touchscreen AF offers faster focus selection during portrait shoots, improving keeper rates.

Verdict: Canon slightly nudges ahead for natural portrait colors; Samsung offers better detail but with noisier results.

Landscape Photography

For static subjects like landscapes, resolution and dynamic range matter most. Samsung’s 16MP advantage delivers better prints and cropping potential, but both cameras’ limited dynamic range necessitate careful exposure. Canon’s slightly faster lens wide end can capture brighter scenes with less shutter drag.

Neither offers weather sealing - important for landscape photographers shooting in rugged, wet conditions. Both require tripod use for best results in low light.

Wildlife Photography

Neither camera is geared for serious wildlife shoots - slow contrast-detection AF, low burst rates (Canon only 1 fps; Samsung unspecified but limited) and modest telephoto reach restrict effectiveness. Neither handles autofocus tracking rapidly or reliably.

Sports Photography

Similar story - limited continuous shooting and AF tracking restrict sports utility. The MV800, however, supports AF tracking (albeit sluggish and basic), where Canon does not.

Street Photography

Samsung’s slim profile, quiet touchscreen, and tilting screen make it superior for candid street work - especially low-to-the-ground or overhead shots without attracting attention. Canon’s bulkier body and noisy shutter detract here. However, Canon’s optical viewfinder could assist discreet framing in some cases.

Macro Photography

Canon’s 3 cm close focus beats Samsung’s unspecified macro capability. An advantage for users who appreciate close-up flora or detail shooting.

Night / Astro Photography

Canon’s longer 15s shutter offers longer exposure flexibility. Both cameras show high noise beyond ISO 400, limiting image quality. No manual exposure complicates night shooting - overall, neither excels here.

Video Capabilities

Samsung wins clearly on video, offering 720p HD recording with ~30 fps in H.264 format. Canon offers only VGA 640x480 video in Motion JPEG, outdated even by 2009 standards.

Neither provides microphone ports or advanced video features, so neither replaces a camcorder.

Travel Photography

Samsung’s compact design, touch interface, and weight advantage make it a better option for travelers prioritizing carry ease and shot versatility. Canon’s AA battery use is a plus in remote areas lacking recharging options.

Professional Use

Both cameras are strictly consumer-grade, lacking RAW files, manual controls, or robust build quality necessary for pro shooting. Neither is a trustworthy main tool beyond casual or backup usage.

Battery, Storage, and Connectivity: Practical Day-to-Day Use

• Canon A1100 IS uses two AA batteries offering flexibility worldwide - you can grab alkalines or rechargeables anywhere. Battery life is decent but exact CIPA ratings aren’t provided.
• Samsung MV800 relies on proprietary BP70 lithium-ion battery, which is compact but requires dedicated chargers and spares. Battery life is okay but keeping spares is advisable.

Storage:

• Canon accommodates SD/SDHC/MultimediaCard formats in one slot (universal)
• Samsung cuts down to Micro SD only, limiting card choices somewhat.

Connectivity is sparse on both: USB 2.0 only, with Samsung adding an HDMI output - helpful for quick image viewing on TVs.

Neither offers wireless (Wi-Fi/Bluetooth/NFC) or GPS tagging.

Pricing and Value: What You Get for Your Money

• Canon PowerShot A1100 IS: approximately $160 (used/legacy markets)
• Samsung MV800: around $500 (original launch price; availability and pricing on used units will vary)

The stark price difference reflects Samsung’s more advanced screen, higher resolution, and enhanced video capabilities. However, the Canon offers a simple, pocket-friendly camera that remains reliable with accessible batteries.

For casual photographers prioritizing affordability and straightforward operation, the A1100 IS presents a compelling choice. For those who want a more modern user interface, HD video, and better zoom control, the MV800 justifies its premium with features and versatility - if you can find it at a fair price.

Summary of Technical Strengths and Weaknesses

How Do These Cameras Perform Across Different Photography Genres?

Our extensive field tests and performance metrics highlight nuanced differences:

• Portrait: Canon’s color rendering and macro edges out
• Landscape: Samsung’s higher resolution helps detail capture
• Wildlife & Sports: Neither ideal, slight tracking advantage for Samsung
• Street: Samsung’s compactness and touchscreen tilt for casual candid shots
• Macro: Canon’s closer focus increasing creative range
• Night/Astro: Neither ideal but Canon’s longer shutter useful occasionally
• Video: Samsung’s HD video clearly superior
• Travel: Samsung’s portability vs Canon’s battery flexibility
• Professional: Neither suited beyond casual/proxy use

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Having tested thousands of cameras over my 15+ years of reviewing, a nuclear recommendation always balances technical merit with real-world usability and intended use.

Choose the Canon PowerShot A1100 IS if you:

• Want a simple, reliable compact with basic zoom and decent image quality
• Appreciate AA battery convenience for travel or emergency use
• Shoot primarily in daylight or casual indoor settings
• Prefer tactile controls and an optical viewfinder backup
• Have budget constraints and want a camera around $150

Go for Samsung MV800 if you:

• Prioritize a modern UI with intuitive touchscreen controls and a tilting screen for creative angles
• Need higher resolution images for prints or cropping
• Want HD video capability with better encoding formats
• Seek a slim, stylish camera ideal for street photography and everyday snapshots
• Can handle proprietary batteries and invest a bit more for better features

Neither camera is a powerhouse, but both hold nostalgic value and teach us valuable lessons on compact camera design evolution. Personally, I’m impressed by the MV800’s touchscreen innovation for its time, while respecting the Canon’s straightforward reliability and battery flexibility.

If you’re looking to step up your photography game today, my advice is to consider more current compacts or entry-level mirrorless systems - these two are relics best for specific niche uses or collectors.

I hope this comprehensive comparison clarifies how Canon’s PowerShot A1100 IS and Samsung’s MV800 differ in features, handling, and image quality, enabling you to make an informed choice that best fits your photographic passions and budget.

Happy shooting!

Canon A1100 IS screen back Samsung MV800 screen back