This Sony has done significantly better than a lower priced Canon A590 that was highly recommended by Consumer Reports. The Canon was a total waste of money. Super grainy images unless in ideal lighting. The Sony is so much better in low light and in general plus it's more compact (but it does cost more). The Sony also has an "Easy" mode so it's a no brainer and an Intelligent mode (also a no brainer) that takes several variables into account (strong backlighting, high contrast scenes, multiple metering and focus zones, etc) to always get you a great shot.
There are so many choices out there and you simply have to decide which features are most important to you. There are usually trade-offs associated with long zoom lenses which typically translate into picture quality issues especially at the extremes and slow lens speed at the longer focal lengths.
The Sony W290 also has a high-definition video recording mode and a couple other small features. If you don't need that, consider the less expensive Sony CyberShote W230 with similar specs for about $175.
We found the Sony W290 to be an all around good performer - but if you want the longest zoom - look elsewhere and be prepared for the trade-offs.
Sony W290 in Blue $228 at Amazon.com + Accessories
