Compact Digital Cameras

Review Date: 23-OCT-2009

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42

RRP: $199.00

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42 is an ultra-affordable compact camera that does the basics well. It might not excel in any one area, but at this price, it's not supposed to. A good choice for skint casual users.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS62R

Review Date: 23-OCT-2009

RRP: $279.00

Novice photographers can just set the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS62R to Intelligent Auto and fire away without worrying about changing settings. It's reasonably priced, too.

Review Date: 23-OCT-2009

Pentax X70

RRP: $599.95

The Pentax X70 is smaller and lighter than nearly every other camera in its class--depending on your hand size, that might be either good or bad. Although its diminutive size gives it a slightly fragile feel, I love being able to tuck the camera into my backpack or throw it around my shoulder and hardly know it's there. I'd just make sure I purchased a backup rechargeable battery to tote along with it.

Review Date: 13-OCT-2009

Samsung ST550

RRP: $449.00

We like Samsung's innovative addition of a second screen to the ST550, but this digital camera could be improved. Its battery life is poor, the menu system needs more information, and it could use some more manual controls. However, it can take some good photos and it performs adequately in dim lighting.

Review Date: 01-OCT-2009

Ricoh CX2

RRP: $599.00

Despite some issues with noise, the Ricoh CX2 is an admirable compact camera. It has a huge 300mm lens, captures vibrant and sharp images, has useful scene modes, and is reasonably priced. Put it on your shopping list if you want a point-and-shoot camera with a versatile lens.

Review Date: 25-SEP-2009

Canon IXUS 120 IS

RRP: $499.00

With the exception of its premium price tag, the Canon IXUS 120 IS compact digital camera is pretty hard to fault. It looks amazing and is capable of taking some breathtaking photos. What's more, it will fit in practically any pocket.

Review Date: 23-SEP-2009

FujiFilm Finepix J30

RRP: $219.00

Fujifilm's Finepix J30 is a simple to use compact digital camera, but it doesn't have anything to set itself apart from the crowded market of similar point-and-shoot cameras.

Review Date: 23-SEP-2009

Casio Exilim EX-H10

RRP: $300.00

With its emphasis on fun, the Casio Exilim EX-H10 digital camera is clearly geared toward a younger crowd or to users looking for a "beginner's megazoom". If it's entertaining in-camera features you're looking for, the EX-H10 should be at the top of your list.

Review Date: 15-SEP-2009

Canon PowerShot SX120 IS

RRP: $399.00

Despite its relatively small size, the Canon PowerShot SX120 IS digital cameras includes a 10x zoom lens and is the perfect choice for anyone who seeking a versatile camera to encompass a variety situations — such as a sight-seeing trip or a friend's party. Its picture quality is very good overall, but it does suffer from some fringing issues.

Panasonic LUMIX DMC-ZR1 digital camera

Review Date: 26-AUG-2009

RRP: $549.00

The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-ZR1 is a versatile camera with specifications that belie its small size. It can take photos at a maximum wide angle of 25mm, and its 8x zoom can reach up to 200mm. It's easy to use, has excellent focusing, and can take vibrant and reasonably clear photos.

Review Date: 05-AUG-2009

Kodak EasyShare Z980

RRP: TBA

If you don't mind the additional weight and size, and you can overlook the slight shortcomings in imaging, the Kodak EasyShare Z980 is a solid buy. Its speed makes it a winner of a camera, even if Kodak isn't as sexy as other brands.

Review Date: 03-AUG-2009

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T900

RRP: $699.00

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T900 has some interesting features, including a touch screen and a 4x zoom lens, but its image quality is only average. It's a very slim camera that's easy to carry to parties and clubs, and it's suitable for taking happy snaps that will eventually end up on a social media site instead of blown up on canvass.

Review Date: 27-JUL-2009

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W180

RRP: $279.00

This Sony digital camera is small and easy to use, and it produces decent quality snaps for printing at up to A4. But it's a little slow, it doesn't always focus properly in low-light conditions, and it uses Memory Stick Pro Duo instead of SD storage.

Review Date: 25-JUN-2009

BEST_BUYS

Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FS7

RRP: $389.00

The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FS7 has every feature that a novice user might require and its features work as advertised. It's worth considering this digital camera if you don't want to spend more money on a model with a bigger zoom lens or a higher megapixel count.

Review Date: 24-JUN-2009

Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FS15

RRP: $439.00

If you’re looking for an alternative to the benchmark models of Canon’s IXUS compact camera line-up, the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FS15 is a great choice. It offers a good lens and intelligent picture modes, though it has a smaller screen than we would have liked and lacks high-definition video recording.