better to have more mps or higher optical zoom?

Joie Libutti: higher optical is alot better.you can take fantastic pics with 2 mp

Sammy Kar: Hi Nicki,Here's one comparison between these two very different cameras. Be sure to read the user reviews.http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/compare_post.asp?m...I've handled the Samsung at a local Target store and was impressed. But I've always liked the specs of the Panasonic line, too. (Geez, he's no help!)Both cameras have the anti-shake feature that's important for you. But it looks like the Samsung may come out ahead. Even though the zoom is only a 5.4x, the extra megapixel resolution should let you crop the photos in your computer for a comprable or better image.If there was a bigger difference in zoom ratios, I might suggest otherwise, but here, I think the Samsung comes out better. It felt solid in my hands and the interface was easy to use....Show more

Carlton Lastrapes: Both factors are important, but neither one is the bottom line, decision maker. I'd r! ather have a digital SLR with 6 MP than a point and shoot with 10 MP if you are only considering image quality. When it came to my pocket-sized point and shoot camera, though, I chose pixels over optical zoom, because I can always crop in the computer. I have three pictures for you to check out. Read the captions carefully so you understand exactly what you are looking at. This series is comparing the difference between optical and digital zoom, but it also shows the value of a decent number of pixels. Be sure to hit "All sizes" and then "Original" to appreciate the differences.http://www.flickr.com/photos/samfeinstein/45960392...http://www.flickr.com/photos/samfeinstein/45960393...http://www.flickr.com/photos/samfeinstein/45960393...Personally, I would think 6 or 7 MP is perfectly adequate for almost any shooting short of pro level photography. Put this behind a camera that zooms to an equivalent of 130-200 mm and there is little that you can't shoot other than some ! wildebeests half a mile away. You COULD go with a camera that! boasts BOTH features, like the Canon S3-IS or S5-IS or the Sony DSC-H2 or DSC-H9. Then we'd have to have the whole discussion about image quality and sensor size, but that's a whole different matter......Show more