If you’re new to digital photography, and you’re seeking compact digital camera reviews to help guide your camera buying decisions, you may be somewhat unsure what to look for when searching for reviews. Some of these main categories, what they mean, and their leaders, may provide a launch point for your search:
Best Point and Shoot Under $200: “Point and shoot” refers to cameras designed for ease of operation. Most features on these cameras are automatic and built in. Leading products in the “under $200” range include: Canon ELPH 100 HS; Panasonic FH25; Nikon S6100
Best Point and Shoot Over $200: “Point and shoot” cameras are the bestsellers of cameras, for the most part. For those who don’t consider themselves to be accomplished photographers and want a somewhat foolproof camera that will boost their efforts, the higher-end point and shoot models are favored. Leading products in the “over $200” range include: Canon ELPH 500 HS; Nikon P300; Sony WX10
Best Compact Zoom: Compact Zoom is a broad term to describe what is, essentially, an all-in-one camera. With numerous features, these cameras—which are also referred to as travel zooms— can shoot a candid close-up from a significant distance or capture a wide-open landscape. The zoom ranges are what compact digital camera reviews refer to that make this category distinct. Leading products include: Canon SX230; Fujifilm F550EXR; Nikon S9100; Panasonic ZS8
Best Extended Zoom: Extended zooms, or superzooms, offer vast zoom ranges as well as an all-in-one versatility that makes this category a favorite. Leading cameras for this category include: Panasonic FZ150; Nikon P510; Fujifilm HS30EXR
Best Advanced Compact: This category takes a step up the ladder from the previously mentioned markets. With larger sensors, bright lenses, and robust manual controls, these cameras represent a clear step over the line from the more basic models. Category leaders include: Olympus XZ-1; Panasonic LX5, Canon S95; Samsung TL500
Best Compact Mirrorless: Mirrorless cameras, unlike compact cameras, are equipped with an interchangeable lens mount, which offers greater versatility for those who have the skills to employ lens changes. These cameras also have a larger sensor which translates to more options, though it will necessarily increase the size of the camera itself. Leaders in the mirrorless category include: Sony NEX-5N; Nikon J1; Panasonic GX1
Consumers and professionals alike favor DSLR (digital single-lens reflex) cameras as they provide considerably more options than the point and shoot models. Compact digital camera reviews provide ample details about each camera, as they vary significantly from brand to brand, as well as from entry-level to mid-range to full-frame. Top contenders include the following:
Best Entry-Level DSLR: Nikon D3100; Pentax K-r; Sony A33
Best Mid-Range DSLR: Sony A55; Canon T3i; Nikon D5100
Best Full-Frame DSLR: Canon 5D Mark II
When comparing compact digital camera reviews, bear in mind that the most useful and reliable information you will find will come from other camera users, not the marketing departments of the major manufacturers. Get to know other photographers, compare notes, and do your due diligence to ensure you find the right camera at the right price.
If you’re searching for unbiased compact digital camera reviews, DigitalCamera-HQ.com is your online source for product reviews and recommendations among enthusiasts and professionals. Though DigitalCamera-HQ.com is not an actual store, they can help you find the camera you want at a great price.
If you’re searching for unbiased compact digital camera reviews, DigitalCamera-HQ.com is your online source for product reviews and recommendations among enthusiasts and professionals. Though DigitalCamera-HQ.com is not an actual store, they can help you find the camera you want at a great price.