The IXUS 130 is the smallest camera here, with true ‘shirt-pocket’ dimensions. In terms of photographic performance, it is on a par with the Olympus µ Tough 8010 (see below), but without the ‘toughness’. It uses ‘programme auto’ mode for simplicity of shooting and has manual white balance for improved colours, as well as 720p video capability, which is amazing for such a small camera.

Canon makes a housing rated to 40m, but it doesn’t control all of the camera functions and at £199.99 is expensive, so I recommend the Ikelite 6240.14 housing.

Ikelite’s design is based around a moulded polycarbonate housing, which is machined to suit each camera. An ultra-compact version has recently been made to cater for the smaller compact camera, and the IXUS 130 fits nicely. This housing gives the camera a 60m depth capability and all of the camera’s controls can 
be accessed through the housing. A nice touch is the 67mm front filter thread, which allows the Ikelite W-20, Inon Type II and Epoque wide-angle or macro lenses to be fitted directly to the front of the lens port. The result is a versatile package at a good price.

DIVE says: Small, easy-to-use camera with versatile options underwater

Value 8/10 Performance 8/10

www.canon.co.uk