Bridge versus Travel zoom
 

The quality of a digital photo is dependant on the CCD size, which is the advantage of a DSLR. Both bridge and travel zooms use 1/2.3 CCD and all seem to have noise at >400 ISO, so with the new generation of travel zooms having full manual control and zooms up to x15, what does the bridge camera offer, apart from the SLR look?

Hi Roger, welcome to the forums

Firstly, sensor size (which may be CCD, CMOS, LMOS etc, not just CCD) isn't everything.

Secondly, there are some differences. Usually these include (but are not limited to) bigger zoom ranges, better corrected lenses, larger ISO ranges and more advanced AF systems. You also get quite different ergonomics.

On many bridge cameras you simply get a better implementation of an existing system, such as manual focus. On compacts it's basically useless - the systems require small adjustments made with buttons on the camera meaning that you can still only focus in discrete steps. On cameras such as the Fuji S200 EXR (for example) you get a proper manual focus ring on the lens barrel.

This is very similar to aperture selection which, on many compact cameras is no more than 2 or 3 different settings while a bridge camera offers a complete range of aperture settings usually in 1/3 of a stop increments.

Bridge cameras usually offer a hotshoe, which more compact models don't and more advanced metering functions (although the latest generation of compact superzooms do now have spot metering).

In short, the specifications on paper are often very similar but the ergonomics, speed of operation and the implementation of the more advanced manual systems is the main difference.

Bridge versus Travel zoom
 

Many thanks for explaining that Chris, although the Fuji S200 looks good, it is a beast. In the days of film, I carried a large SLR with all the bits, but never had it when I wanted it, so was looking for something smaller, but which would take good photos. I have a Panasonic TZ£, but it lacks control and crispness. So I guess my question should have been " are the small bridge cameras that much better than a high end travel zoom" Although there may be more f stops, I believe some cameras use ND filters rather than aperture size.

Some cameras sort of use ND filters - they're digital though, not proper filters really.

If you're specifically looking for a replacement for your old Panasonic (I think it's a TZ3 but you're post says TZ£ - same button you see!) I'd stick with Panasonic and get the latest model. Panasonic invented this sort of camera and, for my money, they still make the best all round big zoom compact.

In my experience the difference mainly comes down to implementation of manual systems rather than simply their presence. Thats where the bridge cameras win. The best implementation of these systems is still on SLRs and their EVIL/Hybrid/CSC (whatever you want to call them) siblings. If you want real control and flexibility and a smaller form then that might be your best option.

One other thing... DPReview have recently published their latest in depth comparison of the latest models.

If you're thinking about buying one of these, I would consider this to be essential reading.

[url=http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/Q210grouptravelzoom/]Linky[/url]

[QUOTE=Roger Alexander;17769] I have a Panasonic TZ£, but it lacks control and crispness. So I guess my question should have been " are the small bridge cameras that much better than a high end travel zoom" [/QUOTE]

Good thread and advice. I'm surprised Roger, at the lack of crispness with your TZ3 as that is one thing I'm always impressed with, having the same model and producing superb prints at around 15"x10". I did move on to buying a TZ28 and have enjoyed it's additional features immensely, particularly the bigger image size and the RAW facility. I've been considering buying the Canon 550D but every time I go and look at it I shudder at all that extra weight and lens changes/purchases. I miss the ability to shoot using a cable release or the higher tech electronic remote facilities so I'm sure I will succumb one day. For now though I enjoy the pocket sized TZ3 and for more "serious" photography my TZ28 with its greater control over aperture and shutter speed, the ability to shoot close-ups within a centimetre or two, and its superb zoom facility.
Dagwood

Hi Rodger the fuji S200EXR is large, but does a good job anyway. If you are looking for something a little smaller and lighter the Panasonic FZ35 or the fuji s1800 or fuji S2500HD are well worth a look . I`m using the S2000HD myself when i dont want to carry a dslr around with me, but remember once you get to iso800 they all start to look ugly. My answer to that is to use monochrome and use the grain to better effect that way. cheers Paul UK