New developments in affordable digital cameras

By the Editors of Consumer Reports - 12/01/2008

Consumers will be able to find a good camera at the right price no matter what their needs are, say the editors of Consumer Reports.

After testing 77 digital camera models and

taking 3,080 images to rate the best cameras on the market, CR found that paying more doesn't

guarantee fine performance. For example, the $440 superzoom point-and-shoot Canon PowerShot TX1 fell short in several important areas, including image quality, and ranked dead last among its

competitors. Tests also showed the same issue in SLRs with the high-priced basic Sigma SD14 ($880), which got a poor rating in image quality.

Point-and-Shoots Advance

CR found that subcompact and compact

cameras continue to improve in many areas. Resolution continues to rise. Most models already offer more than seven megapixels, which most people need for good resolution, but almost half of the tested point-and-shoots have at least 10. More models have 3-inch or larger LCD or touch-screen controls than in the past, and more superzooms offer high optical-zoom ranges, such as 18x or 20x.

CR recommends that consumers who want a pocket-sized camera go with the Canon PowerShot SD1100 IS ELPH ($200) for its low-light performance, versatility and very short next-shot delay. The Casio Exilim Card EX-S10 ($220) is also a good option for its short first-shot delay and manual focus. Another recommendation from CR is the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T70 ($260), which features a 3-inch touch-sensitive LCD, non-telescoping zoom lens and very short next-shot delay.

For budget-conscious shoppers looking to spend less than $200, CR suggests the Canon PowerShot A590 IS ($160), a CR Best Buy, because of its

manual focus, manual controls and stabilizer. If cost and size are a concern, the Samsung L210 ($150) and the Pentax Optio M50 ($170) are both small enough to fit in a pocket.

Digital SLRs Expand

Digital SLRs are adding many new features including the long-awaited video recording

capability, which arrived this fall in the

12-megapixel Nikon D90 ($1,000). CR found this particular feature lacking and determined that it is no substitute for a decent HD camcorder. Another unique feature is the full frame sensor, which is the same size as a frame of 35mm film and can produce better image quality at high ISO settings while offering more options for wide-angle

shooting.

One of the most interesting recent innovations is Panasonic's hybrid point-and-shoot, the Lumix DMC-G1 ($800). Like an SLR, it uses a larger image sensor and removable lenses, but this model has the smaller size and weight of a point-and-shoot.

The Pentax K200D ($720) and the Canon EOS Rebel XSi ($700) are both basic SLRs that stood out in CR's testing. The Pentax is better than other basic SLRs, designed to keep out moisture and dust. It also has an LCD on top that displays

exposure and other settings. The Canon is the only basic SLR with excellent image quality, and it has a 3-inch LCD with live view. For a more advanced SLR, CR recommends the Canon EOS-40D Digital ($1,100) for its excellent image quality and

dynamic range. It has a live view with autofocus and is very versatile.

Choosing the Right Camera

n Match performance to needs. If action shots are a priority, look for a higher score for first-shot delay and next-shot delay. For landscapes, look for wide-angle capability and excellent or very good dynamic range.

n Most needed features. For more control over the image, look for manual controls and RAW-file capability.

n Size up the design. Sony excels in sleek, minimalist designs, while Kodak focuses on ease of use.