What is the Best Digital Camera to Buy?
Digital cameras are very common today. They are appealing because most are relatively easy to use and can be purchased rather inexpensively. There are many types of digital cameras available. Different brands and models have a wide range of prices and features. It is a good idea to research different options before purchasing a digital camera.
You should be able to find a digital camera that is right for you. A compact point-and-shoot camera is simple to use, but has great features and takes great photos. There is a bit more zoom in a moderately-sized camera. There are also cameras that take professional quality images at lightning-fast speed.
There are four main types of cameras available. Key features about the top camera in each category are based on the reviews by many experts, including one of the leading computer and electronics magazines.
Point-and-Shoot Cameras
Canon PowerShot S95
- 10 Megapixel
- 3.8x Optical Zoom
- 3" LCD
- Motion Detection Technology
- Optical Zoom Stabilizer
- AF Tracking
- Smart Auto
- Blink Detection
- Face Detection
- HD Video with Stereo Sound
Digital SLR
Nikon D3100 (with 18-55mm lens)
- 14.2 Megapixel DX-format CMOS Image Sensor
- 3x 18-55mm Zoom-NIKKOR VR Image Stabilization Lens
- Full 1080p HD Cinematic Video with full-time autofocus and sound
- Guide Mode
- Split-second Shutter Response
- Fast 11-point Autofocus System
- ISO sensitivity 100-3200, expandable to ISO 12800 equivalent
- 3-inch monitor with One-Touch Live View shooting and movie capture.
- Connect directly to your HDTV
- 6 Automatic Scene Modes
- Scene Recognition System
- Picture Control
- Automatic Image Sensor Cleaning
- In-camera Image Editing
Compact Interchangeable-Lens Cameras
Sony Alpha NEX-5
- 14.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensors
- Tiltable 3-inch LCD
- Interchangeable 18-55mm E-Series Lens
- 1080i high-definition video in either AVCHD or MPEG-4 format
- Sweep Panorama mode
- Up to ISO 12800 / Up to 7 fps
- Auto HDR capture / DRO Optimizer
- In-Camera 226° Sweep Panoramas
- Memory Stick PRO Duo or SD/SDHC Cards
Superzoom Cameras
Nikon Coolpix S9100
- 12MP
- 18x-optical-zoom lens
- 3-inch LCD
- 14 scene modes
- In-camera editing features improve low-light shots
- 1080p full high-definition movie-recording mode
- Easy Panorama mode
- 270 shots per charge
Keep in mind, the digital camera market is a high demand, high turnover market; manufacturers release new products every three to six months.