The 1.3-megapixel C215 has no zoom, but does have an easy USB connection. Our top reviewer, Imaging Resource, says this camera doesn’t have many extras, “but for the price, it’s probably fine.”
Experts peg the Canon A20 as the best 2.1-megapixel digital camera. Steve’s Digicams says the A20 is great for people who “just want to take good pictures without fussing with any controls.” Plus, this autofocus Canon sports a 3x optical zoom, one of reviewers’ favorite features. If your primary interest is snapping and printing 5×7-inch photos, reviewers say the A20 offers sharp, color-saturated results. However, if you are enticed by more sophisticated cameras with a range of manual controls, read on.
The 3.34-megapixel Olympus C-3040 Zoom is reviewers’ all-around favorite digital camera. They say it offers the best range of manual and autofocus controls, exposure settings, and attachment options at a reasonable price. Our top reviewer, Imaging Resource, says the C-3040 delivers terrific image quality and white balance, adding that it excelled in its low-light tests. This camera is more complicated than the Canon A20, but experts agree that the results justify the learning curve.
Olympus C-3040 Zoom
Nikon CoolPix 995
An update to the popular CoolPix 990 in our last report, experts say that the 995 offers further refinements. The pop-up flash has been repositioned to reduce red-eye, and the CoolPix now sports a 4x optical zoom. Reviewers still like its swivel design, logical interface and top-quality lenses. Photo quality is exceptional, and experts say its macro performance is sharp as a tack. Your choice between the CoolPix and the Olympus above comes down to design preference.
This 4.0-megapixel camera, top-rated by all three of our most credible reviewers, is an update to the already popular G1, and experts say that almost every feature has been improved. Imaging Resource says “Low-light and macro capabilities were outstanding,” and Digital Photography Review.com praises “the excellent flip-out and twist LCD.” If you are interested in photo manipulation, cropping and enlarging images, or making big prints up to 11×17 inches, the G2 has enough options to keep you happily snapping.
Canon PowerShot G2
Fujifilm FinePix S1 Pro
Most consumers won’t be interested in spending on a digital camera, but this camera isn’t meant for most people. The FinePix S1 Pro digital SLR camera is marketed to those needing maximum flexibility, ability to use a myriad of Nikon F-type attachable SLR lenses, and manual controls for every possible camera function. Image quality and color balance are excellent, reviewers say, and the 3.34 megapixel CCD can be interpolated with software to reach 6.1-megapixels.
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