I have a Canon A85 and it's 4 MP. It takes very good pictures, it also takes 4 AA batteries. My last camera, a Pentax took only 2.

I would suggest buying a battery charger and extra batteries with whatever you choose because you will go through regular ones like candy.

I bought an Engergizer quick charger (from Sam's Club in N. Y.) If I remember correctly the charger was $30 and came with 4 AA batteries and 2 AAA. They also have packages of 8 extra batteries for around $17.-18.

I can take 150-200 pictures before having to recharge them. And having extras there's always charged batteries available. The charger is also a quick charge (15 minutes)

The one time cost will certainly pay off, especially when you're learning.