Canon's 2004 mid-range compact — 5MP 1/1.8in CCD, 38-114mm 3x zoom, vari-angle LCD, manual modes, AA power
The PowerShot A95 of September 2004 topped Canon's mid-range Axx compact line as a direct update of the A80, raising resolution while keeping the articulated screen that set the pair apart from cheaper A-series models. It was among the more capable AA-powered compacts of its day.
It matched a 5.0-megapixel 1/1.8-inch CCD, larger than most compact sensors of the era, with a 38-114mm-equivalent 3x zoom. The 1.8-inch vari-angle LCD flipped out for high and low angles, video recorded at up to 640x480, and images stored to CompactFlash. AA batteries supplied power, and the A-series platform offered full manual exposure control.
It suits beginners moving beyond point-and-shoot and digicam enthusiasts: the manual modes, swivel screen and comparatively large CCD give real creative room, and macro and travel work benefit from the flexible screen. It is boxy but comfortable in the hand.
Work the vari-angle screen through its range to check the hinge and ribbon cable. It takes CompactFlash, still available but pricier than SD, and AA cells mean no charger worries, though check contacts for leak damage. Shoot test frames to rule out CCD faults on a sensor now two decades old.