Canon's 2007 entry compact — 7.1MP CCD, 4x 35-140mm equiv zoom, DIGIC III, AA power
The Canon PowerShot A560 is an entry-level compact announced in early 2007 and released that March, sitting in Canon's A-series between the simpler A550 and the more feature-rich A570 IS. It was designed for ease of use, offering casual photographers Canon image quality with straightforward controls.
It is built around a 7.1-megapixel 1/2.5-inch CCD sensor and the DIGIC III processor. The 4x optical zoom lens covers 5.8-23.2mm f/2.6-5.5, a 35-140mm equivalent range, and the rear has a 2.5-inch LCD. Sensitivity runs ISO 80-1600, recording media are SD, SDHC and MultiMediaCard, and power comes from two AA batteries rated at approximately 140 shots per set. The body measures 91x64x43mm and weighs about 165g.
The A560 works well as a simple family and travel snapshooter with a slightly longer 140mm reach than most budget rivals of its day. Scene modes cover common situations, though there is no optical image stabilisation, so care is needed at the telephoto end and in dim light where the small CCD sensor shows noise quickly.
These are plentiful and cheap used, and AA power means no charger concerns - budget for NiMH rechargeables given the modest alkaline rating. Check for the A-series' known lens-error fault on power-up and inspect the battery contacts for corrosion; SDHC compatibility means modern cards work.