With the ‘IS’ standing for image stabilisation – usually found on more expensive models – this IXUS aims to be more than a pretty fascia by counteracting hand wobble and avoiding blurred photos from flash free photography in less than bright light.

With its ‘800’ numerals, you’d expect the Canon Digital IXUS 800 IS to join the current vogue for 8 megapixel models, but no, Canon has played safe with six – since it’s arguable whether images from current higher resolution compacts make use of their full complement.

It also has a slightly better 4x optical zoom to set it apart from the near identical IXUS 65, and a useful top-light sensitivity setting of ISO800, which introduces some image noise, but not irritatingly.

The Canon 800 IS feels substantial despite its credit-card dimensions and curved bodywork. Included is the same fast processor found in Canon D-SLRs, and a macro mode delivering close-ups down to 2cm. This is aided by image stabilisation, which can be set to continuously adjust for shake or to kick in when taking a picture.

The 2.5in screen dominating the back is adequate for composition, though there’s also an optical viewfinder if visibility is compromised by sunshine, and the opportunity to add gimmicky photo effects, shoot TV-quality movie clips, widescreen stills, plus dip into 16 helpful shooting modes.

The camera powers up in two seconds, the lens barrel extending from flush to the body; however we felt the location of the on/off button above the LCD didn’t make for the most fluid operation.

The shutter button is surrounded by a responsive zoom lever, while a slightly recessed mode dial falls under your forefinger. The screen attracts prints as you grip the camera, so you’ll be constantly wiping it.

Images the 800 IS delivers onto its 16Mb SD card are mainly sharp. Even with image stabilisation on continuous there was the occasional blurred shot, though less than you’d get without. Switching to ‘shoot only’ was more reliable. There’s also occasional fringing in areas of high contrast, only visible when enlarging a small area. Colours were well saturated.

Though the 800 IS is very similar to the IXUS 65, the extra £50 for the 800’s image stabilisation feature and lens reach is worth it. It’s not infallible, but comes close.

Related reviews
Canon Digital IXUS 65
Verdict: A similar look and feel 6 megapixel camera. Lacks image stabilisation but boasts a larger 3in screen.
Price: £349
Rating: 4/5