Despite its convoluted name, the Ixus 950IS does not replace the 850IS but rather the Ixus 800. Physically very close to the 850 IS (a best seller), the 950 IS integrates an 8 million pixel sensor and optical stabilization. So has the Ixus line been enriched with a new reference?

In hand

There are very few changes in ergonomics for the Ixus 950 IS. It inherits this line’s evolutions: a notched dial for a choice of settings, access with the Func button, and simple and clear menus. The Ixus 950 IS is quickly understood and after a few photos we feel like an able photographer.  This small camera is quite reactive and we find the same fine characteristics as on the Canon 850 IS with almost instantaneous startup and very reactive autofocus. Only recording pictures could be a little faster. Reviewing images, menu navigation, and everything else responds quickly to the user.  The macro mode is impressive, and it’s really unfortunate that the 950 IS doesn’t have a wide angle. The flash also gives good results.








Quality of images

As for image quality, here again there are few surprises. Overall, pictures display a good level of detail with good color rendering outdoors. Under tungsten lighting, photos show a noticeable dominance in red. Finally, for noise the Ixus 950 IS can go as high as 1600 ISO, however, 800 ISO is preferable if you want usable results. Compared to the 850 IS, this is rather disappointing because the million pixels seem to only increase noise on practically the entire range of sensitivities, as you can see on our test shots at 400 ISO.