Canon AL80/Al8000is vs. Olympus 710/720sw

[uminchu]

I'm sure this has all been said before... but i'm in the market, and i couldn't find anything so...
Which do you recommend? I am a canon guy for above the water, but i'm looking for something with a decent case... and preferable half decent above water shots too.
Canon AL80
Canon AL8000is
Olympus 710
Olympus 720SW
These all have housings now...
Which do you like? If you like the olympus', is it work getting the 720? I know flooding would be less of a concern, but apart from that? Or for canon the 8000?
Any advice would be appreciated!
I'm not a pro. Just an enthusiast.
Thanks

 

[alcina]

Have you compared them side by side at www.dpreview.com ?

Might be a good start if you haven't. I haven't seen a lot of members here with those models but hopefully someone will chime in!

Also check out the link in my sig for some other info that might be useful as you decide.

 

[uminchu]

Canon IXY 800is... is the SD700is in the US... Sorry, i'm looking in Japan... anyway, i'm thinking of picking one up. I'm worried if i don't buy the casing right away it'll be hard to find. Do you believe this to be true?

 

[alcina]

I dunno, but I would guess not...www.bhphotovideo.com still has a pretty good range of housings listed even for older models. YMMV

 

[uminchu]

that's for your advice... i went for it and got the Canon... it's a real nice camera above the water, i can't wait to see what can be done down deep!
Thanks again

 

[alcina]

Looking forward to the photos