Camera Advice and Guides
Camera Reviews
Pentax K-7 Review
Pentax made a big splash at the right time with the prosumer K-7. One industry magazine even named it the best camera of 2009. Our reviewer sees if it lives up to the hype. By Joseph Ben Keough
Casio H10 Review
There are bigger brand names than Casio in the digital camera marketplace, but the Exilim EX-H10 turned out to be a worthy competitor to well-known fun zoom models like the Panasonic ZS3 and Canon SX200. By Liam McCabe
Kodak Z950 Review
Though Kodak has released clunker after clunker in recent years, our reviewer thinks that they may have turned the corner with the Z950, a point-and-shoot with a big zoom and a range of useful features. By Brenda Paro
Panasonic GH1 Review
This upgrade to the Panasonic G1 is the most advanced Micro Four Thirds camera so far. By Joseph Ben Keough
Samsung TL100 Review
The Samsung TL100 can be frustrating at times, but it's not all bad if you're interested in a simple, straightforward point-and-shoot camera. By Brenda Paro
Canon A1100 Review
The Canon A1100 is a satisfying point-and-shoot camera that should suit just about anyone. By Brenda Paro
Fuji Z33 Review
The Fuji FinePix Z33 is an attractive waterproof camera, but the poor overall image quality makes using it a frustrating experience. By Michael Patrick Brady
All Hands-On Digital Camera Reviews
A full list of hands-on digital camera reviews, including sample photos and videos, from Digital Camera HQ.
Pentax X70 Review
A lightweight, compact superzoom camera that offers an attractive alternative to the brands you hear so much about. By Joseph Ben Keough
Canon A2100 Review
The flagship Canon A2100 IS is a nice point-and-shoot digital camera intended for novice or beginner users, and updates the A-series design to make for a more compact, user-friendly camera. By Michael Patrick Brady
Panasonic ZS1 Review
The Panasonic ZS1 may be "stripped down," but that doesn't mean it can't hack it. This camera is an excellent, high-quality pocket zoom model that offers a lot of bang for your buck. By Joseph Ben Keough
Panasonic FS15 Review
The Panasonic FS15 is a dead-simple digital camera, with a slim, lightweight profile and stylish design. By Michael Patrick Brady
Fuji Z30 Review
The Fuji FinePix Z30 is a decent, satisfying point-and-shoot ultracompact, with a toy-like design that, though awkward, is good enough to provide clear, well-composed photographs at a low price. By Brenda Paro
Nikon S630 Review
The Nikon S630 keeps things simple, with a subtle, uncluttered design and intelligent automatic functions that make using it very easy. Photo quality isn't quite there, however. By Michael Patrick Brady
Waterproof Camera Reviews
We've conducted in-depth hands-on tests of the Canon D10, Olympus TOUGH 8000, and Panasonic TS1. See how they stack up in a head to head comparison and decide which waterproof camera would make the best companion on your summer trip.
Olympus TOUGH 8000 Review
The heavy-duty build of the Olympus TOUGH 8000 makes it a fine choice for photographers in extreme conditions, but more casual users may not see the benefits. By Joseph Ben Keough
Nikon L19 Review
The Nikon L19 is affordable, automatic, and compact, appealing to casual photographers, but if you're even remotely concerned about exerting any control over your camera, this may not be for you. By Brenda Paro
Olympus E-P1 Review
The Olympus PEN E-P1 hopes to revolutionize high-end digital photography, providing an SLR-quality sensor in a body only a little bigger than a point-and-shoot camera. Our initial take is that the E-P1 is a bold new design sure to make some waves in the coming months. By Michael Patrick Brady
Nikon L100 Review
Fun and easy to use, the Nikon Coolpix L100 and its 15x optical zoom are strictly middle-of-the-road. By Joseph Ben Keough
Canon D10 Review
The fun-looking D10 can go 33 feet underwater. That's nice, but does it take good photographs? By Michael Patrick Brady
Panasonic TS1 Review
The Panasonic TS1 manages to toughen up for use in trying conditions while maintaining good image quality and an attractive body design. By Michael Patrick Brady
Panasonic ZS3 Review
The Panasonic Lumix ZS3 is an impressive digital camera that blends powerful features like a 12x optical zoom and HD video mode, with user-friendly, intelligent performance. By Brenda Paro
Fuji F200 Review
Fuji aims for a casual point-and-shoot camera that also has some versatility, thanks to its EXR mode. Ultimately, the camera seems fit for neither casual nor advanced users. By Michael Patrick Brady
Canon SD780 Review
Apart from the HD video mode, the Canon SD780 isn't breaking any new ground. Nevertheless, it's a strong performer, doing what a camera should: take excellent pictures, easily. By Brenda Paro
Canon SX1 Review
The Canon SX1 Is impresses with its full 1080p video mode, putting it head and shoulders above similar "bridge" cameras. Consumers, however, should carefully consider whether that's enough to make them pick the SX1 over the similar SX10 IS. By Joseph Ben Keough
Canon SX200 Review
Despite a few minute design concerns, the 12.1-megapixel Canon SX200 performed quite well, yielding high-quality still photos and extraordinary high-definition video. Its 12x optical zoom lens is just the icing on the cake. By Michael Patrick Brady
Panasonic FX580 Review
Though it's got plenty of flashy, appealing features (like a touchscreen LCD) and good HD video, the FX580 forgets that its primary purpose is to take good still photos. By Joseph Ben Keough
Nikon P90 Review
The Nikon Coolpix P90 comes on strong with a 24x optical zoom lens, but can't cut it when it comes to consistent performance. By Michael Patrick Brady
Sony W290 Review
The Sony Cybershot W290 is designed for novice users who aren't afraid to sit back, relax and let the camera do all the work. By Michael Patrick Brady
Pentax K20D Review
The Pentax K20D earns this reviewer's highest recommendation, presenting a strong and affordable alternative to SLR titans like Canon and Nikon. By Joseph Ben Keough
Don't Buy the Kodak C813
The Kodak EasyShare C813 has disappointed enough people. We're letting you know: don't buy this truly terrible camera.
By Michael Patrick Brady, Editor
Panasonic ZS3 Review
An early look at an interesting digital camera set to introduce a new improvement to HD video recording. By Michael Patrick Brady
Panasonic G1 Review
The Panasonic G1 represents a new frontier in digital photography, bringing high-end power to smaller, lighter bodies. By Joseph Ben Keough
Canon SD990 IS Review
Canon's latest ultracompact Elph digital camera, the SD990 IS, is an impressive creation that provides quick, speedy performance and satisfying image quality to users of all skill levels. By Brenda Paro
Panasonic FX150 Review
Our reviewer delves deeply into the 14.7 megapixel monster and tells you whether or not all those extra pixels actually do anything. By Joseph Ben Keough
Nikon S710 and Samsung SL310W
These two high-megapixel ultracompacts have a lot of similarities, but one tremendous difference that might help you make a final decision. By Michael Patrick Brady
Olympus SP-565 UZ Review
Olympus has taken their wonderful extended zoom cameras and shrunken them down for improved portability. See what we thought of this incredible, shrinking camera with the 20x optical zoom. By Michael Patrick Brady
Olympus 1040 Review
The Olympus 1040 doesn't just look cool, it actually works really well, too. See what our reviewer thought of this stylish pocket camera. By Brenda Paro.
Canon SX10 IS Review
Canon finally gets its act together and releases a camera with 20x optical zoom. How does it stack up against the competition? And what kind of photographer should own such a thing? By Michael Patrick Brady, Editor
Canon A2000 Review
Our reviewer is absolutely smitten with the Canon A2000. Read why she thinks it's the "best camera available for the price point" and can satisfy users of all types and skill levels. By Brenda Paro
Canon E1 Review
The Canon Powershot E1 succeeds in pairing excellent image quality with stylish aesthetics, but has a few puzzling moments of clunkiness that make it a mixed bag overall. By Brenda Paro
Olympus E-520 Review
The Olympus E-520 is a capable and satisfying camera for novices and professionals alike.
By Joseph Ben Keough
Panasonic FZ28 Review
An interesting extended zoom offering from Panasonic. See what we thought of it in our hands on review.
By Michael Patrick Brady
Kodak V1273 Review
The Kodak V1273 might be a good camera if it didn't have so many problems. Find out what they are.
By Joseph Ben Keough
Nikon P5100 Review
The Nikon P5100 is a sleek, well-designed camera, but despite its pleasant first impressions, it ultimately disappoints.
By Brenda Paro
Nikon S52c Review
Nikon's new S53c digital camera has Wi-Fi capabilities for sharing and transferring photos. Read our review to see if it really works.
By Michael Patrick Brady, Editor
Canon SD790 IS Review
Lots of Control in a Small Package
By Brenda ParoThe Canon SD790 IS is small, but that doesn't mean it's not powerful. This camera has all the control you'll need in a comfortable, portable package.
Panasonic TZ50 Review
An Able Wireless Performer
Review by Joseph Ben KeoughThe Panasonic TZ50 takes another stab at wireless transmission of photos over the Internet, directly from the camera. See how it fares when we test its impressive claims.
Kodak M1033 Review
Not So Fast, or So Good Either
Review by Brenda ParoThe M1033 can't break Kodak out of the funk they're trapped in. It's yet another disappointing offering from the once venerable manufacturer.
Nikon L18 Review
Simple, Basic, Affordable
By Andrew SkinnerIf you're in the market for an inexpensive camera but don't want to get stuck with a piece of junk, the Nikon L18 might be a satisfying solution.
Nikon P80 Review
A Fine Camera, But Too Little Too Late?
Review By Michael Patrick BradyThe Nikon P80 would've been a superstar had it been released a year or two ago. Now, it seems like something of an also-ran, despite having an excellent long-range zoom and vivid, high quality photos.
Canon 450D Review
The New Digital Rebel: Exceptional, Impressive
Review By Michael Patrick Brady, EditorThe Canon 450D was a hotly anticipated new digital SLR, and we're pleased to find that it continues the long Digital Rebel tradition of superlative cameras that blend high-end performance with entry-level ease and comfort.
Olympus 1030SW Review
A Rugged Little Traveler
Review By Andrew SkinnerThe Olympus 1030SW makes a lot of grand claims about its durability and ruggedness. Does it live up to the hype? Check out our hands-on review to see whether it survives.
Canon A470 Review
Gets The Job Done... Mostly
Review By Joseph B. KeoughThe Canon Powershot A470 is an affordable, diminutive shooter that will get the job done, but if you're looking for real power, you're in the wrong neighborhood. Check out our hands-on review and see if this camera fits your needs.
Kodak Z1085 IS Review
A Glimmer of Hope for a Struggling Brand
Review By James DeRuvoThe Z1085 IS gives consumers a reason to take a second look at the brand after a string of disappointing and poorly received cameras threatened to spoil Kodak's long-standing reputation for user-friendly products.
Olympus SP-570 UZ Review
Super Zoom Yields Superior Results
Review By Michael Patrick Brady, EditorAn impressive display of power and reach by the SP-570 UZ and its unparalleled 20x optical zoom may just put it at the top of the heap for advanced, extended zoom cameras. Plus, it's actually really easy to use.
Canon A580 Review
Affordable and Approachable
Review By Michael Patrick Brady, EditorThe Canon PowerShot A580 is a compact point-and-shoot camera aimed at entry-level and budget-minded consumers. Don't let the price fool you into thinking this camera isn't excellent; the A580 holds its own and is incredibly easy to operate.
Canon SD1100 IS Review
A Little Style, A Lot of Functionality
Review By Andrew SkinnerThe Canon Powershot SD1100 IS is the latest in the manufacturer's well-regarded line of stylish ultracompacts. Take a look at our hands on review and see what this little shooter can do.
Canon SD870 IS Review
See what we thought of Canon's all-new stylish ultracompact, the Canon Powershot SD870 IS. We've given it a once over so you can see how it performs.
Canon A720 IS Review
We were lucky enough to get our hands on a Canon Powershot A720 IS. Check out our up-close review of this user-friendly point-and-shoot digital camera.
Worst Digital Cameras Ever
An unbiased look at the worst digital cameras ever made, where they went wrong, and how consumers can avoid such products in the future.
Kodak V705/V610 Review
Despite innovative ideas, the V705 and V610 are doomed by poor joystick control and lack of image stabilization, respectively. Read on to see how we reached our conclusion in our hands-on review.
Consumer Guides
Best Fun Zoom Cameras
"Fun zoom," isn't an official, industry-recognized term. It's just what we like to call the range of point-and-shoots with good picture quality, ease of use, portability, and big zooms. They're kind of like the Toyota Camry or Honda Accord of digital cameras--solid, mid-range products that are built to perform well, even if they aren't the most glamorous or luxurious out on the market. See how we rate four of them below.
Best Cameras For Serious Photographers
If photography has become a serious hobby, or perhaps even a potential career, these cameras will fit the bill. Digital SLR cameras require attention and patience, but your reward will be stunning photographs that could easily hang on the wall of a museum or in the pages of a glossy magazine. dSLRs range from affordable, entry-level models to tremendous high-end models intended for professionals. Below, you'll find our selection of the best and most accessible digital SLRs for consumers, cameras that strike a fine balance between cutting-edge technology and bang-for-your-buck value.
Keep in mind that most of the prices below are for the body only -- unless we've indicated otherwise, they don't come with a flash, lens, or bag. New dSLR owners will need to invest extra cash in their rig at first, but it will certainly be worth the cost in the long run.
Best Cameras For The Outdoors
Most cameras are sensitive objects. That's why we need wrist straps and carrying bags. But some cameras are built to withstand water, weather, and general abuse. We've picked the best of the bunch. If you're looking for stunning image quality, look elsewhere. If you're looking for a camera that you or your loved one can bring on a hike, to the beach, or drop off a table, then consider the cameras here.
Best Cameras For Casual Photographers
Looking for something simple and to the point? These point-and-shoot digital cameras will satisfy novice and casual photographers who just want to be able to turn the camera on and start snapping away. These are the "just right" cameras, the ones that are neither too complicated to understand nor too simple to be effective. If you're a casual photographer, or are looking to buy a gift for one, these are the best point-and-shoot digital cameras you could spend your money on. Whether it's taking photos for the family album or documenting your latest vacation adventure, the following cameras won't let you down, and will allow you to learn and expand your skills without the need for a costly upgrade a year down the line.
Best Cameras For Hobbyists
Hobbyists are happy to shoot anything, anywhere, with any camera. The photo hobbyist in your life would love a camera with a little extra power than a run-of-the-mill point and shoot but probably isn't ready for a high-end digital single lens reflex (dSLR) model. Below, you'll find our picks in this category; cameras that suit a hobbyist's developing skill set with plenty of advanced options and manual control -- at a decent price.
Best Cameras For Students
Choosing a camera for the high school or college student in your life can be a daunting task. It helps to know when and why they'll use the camera. Most likely, it's either because they want to capture the good times they share with their friends or they want to explore their creative side through photography. The options below are solid starting points for either case.
Best Point-and-Shoot Cameras
If you're looking for the perfect introductory camera for your mother, father, or child, or simply need an easy-to-use camera that just works for yourself, these point-and-shoot cameras will do the trick. Perfect for casual photographers who don't want to fuss with the details, the following cameras are designed to be straightforward and simply take great photos right out of the box, while still having some potential for growth should you be interested. These are perfect holiday gifts, ready to make memories for photographers of any skill level.
Best Extended Zoom Cameras
These extended zoom cameras make excellent gifts for budding photographers interested in gaining more experience with advanced techniques. They're not as complicated or as expensive as high-end dSLRs and require no interchangeable lenses. They offer long-range zooms, wide-angle lenses, and plenty of manual control so the shooter can have a say in how their photos look. Each of these cameras provides an excellent opportunity for someone to really step up one's game.
Best Cutting-Edge Cameras
These cameras have all sorts of unique features that represent new ideas and innovations in digital cameras. Check out what these cutting-edge cameras can offer and see if it's the kind of thing that might suit you.
Best Pocket Cameras
Cameras keep getting smaller and smaller while their feature sets get bigger and bigger. This year's batch of ultracompact cameras is pushing the envelope with more megapixels, more power, more of everything. If you're looking to find the perfect gift for a loved one (or as a treat for yourself), these sleek beauties are sure to incite plenty of excited screaming once the gift wrap is torn away.
Best Cameras Under $150
You don't have to spend a lot of money to get a top-of-the-line digital camera. We've rounded up a selection of high-quality, well-reviewed, affordable digital cameras to prove that great digital camera deals can be found, and you can take great photos without spending too much money.
Best Digital SLRs
This year has seem some extraordinary advances in digital SLRs, namely the introduction of high-definition video to this class of cameras. For consumers looking to get into high-level photography or in search of the perfect gift for your camera-loving loved one, these five SLRs are the cream of the crop. There's a camera here for all skill levels, from the budding enthusiast to the consummate professional. Take a closer look at what makes them so special.
HD Digital Cameras
This year, high-definition movie modes are becoming common on digital cameras, and if you're looking for a great, HD-capable digital camera that can slide in your pocket, you may want to consider these appealing models.
Waterproof Cameras
If you're gearing up for some fun in the sun, you might be looking for a camera that can keep up with you at the pool or beach, both in the sand and under the water. These new durable, waterproof cameras make great vacation companions.
New Zoom Cameras
These are the latest and greatest long zoom cameras available from manufacturers like Canon, Nikon, Panasonic, and Olympus. Perfect for serious photographers looking for SLR-like power without the added cost and maintenance of interchangeable lenses, these extended zoom cameras are a happy medium.
Most Popular Digital Cameras
We've dug deep into our collection of owner reviews and ratings to bring you a comprehensive list of the most popular cameras, for point-and-shoot/ultracompact, extended zoom, and digital SLR cameras. These cameras succeeded in pleasing their owners and providing excellent performance when it counted.
2008's Worst Cameras
These cameras are truly abysmal disasters that gave their owners nothing but frustration and headaches. Take a look at the worst cameras of 2008, and hopefully you'll gain some knowledge about what to avoid when you yourself make a purchase in the future.
Micro Four Thirds Explained
Panasonic and Olympus have announced a bold new digital camera technology called Micro Four Thirds. What is it? And what does it mean for the future of digital photography?
New Olympus Digital Cameras
Curious about what Olympus has up their sleeves? So were we:
New Cameras: August 2008
Check out what's coming down the pike this fall. We've got all the latest announcements for new cameras that will be on store shelves in the coming months.
Best Budget Digital Cameras
While many digital cameras attract users with fancy features and cool-sounding new "technology," sometimes the only thing the features augment is the price. However, there are cameras out there with sufficient capability without an exorbitant price. The following cameras are our top picks for the best cameras around $150.
What's New in Digital Cameras: Fall 2008
See what's exciting new features will be found in digital cameras this fall.
Wireless Cameras
For photographers on the go, dealing with memory cards or internal hard-drives can be a nuisance. No one wants to miss a picture-perfect moment because the camera has run out of space! Luckily, camera manufacturers have slowly started to make the leap to wireless technology. Although this new technology is limited by the availability of Wi-Fi signals, it offers another option for users who wish to streamline the uploading process.
Best Extended Zoom Cameras
Somewhere between point-and-shoot territory and DSLRs, Extended Zoom cameras cater to users who want both sophistication and affordability. In addition to their long lenses, Extended Zoom cameras include a variety of features comparable to DSLRs and present a great option for users who have more than just a casual interest in digital cameras. Despite the multitude of features, Extended Zoom cameras are user-friendly, and you won't have to take out a second mortgage to finance your purchase.
Most Popular Point-and-Shoot
Point-and-shoot cameras are perfect for first-time users and casual photographers who want a camera that's both durable and reliable. While point-and-shoots are not as compact as pocket-sized cameras and do not have the fancy features of Digital SLRs, the sturdiness and the high image quality of these cameras will serve users well for any occasion. Ideal for travel, family events, or general snapshots, point-and-shoots are some of the most popular and best-reviewed cameras on the market. Here's a comparison of three of the most popular models:
Digital Cameras for Travel
Whether you're looking for a simple shooter, a rugged companion, or a high-end SLR, we've got something you can take along with you on your next vacation.
Great New Pocket Cameras
See the latest and greatest ultracompact digital cameras from Canon, Fuji, Pentax, Panasonic, and Sony! We'll give you our opinion and show you the best deals on these hot new models.
Why Shop Online? It's Cheaper!
We took a stroll down to our local big-box stores and compared the prices they offer to the prices you can get online. Far and away, online shopping for digital cameras was much cheaper.
What's New in Cameras
In this guide, we take a look at some of the year's biggest innovations in digital cameras. Manufacturer's have made great advances in megapixels, zoom, video, and image stabilization, and you should know what to look for.
Best Point-and-Shoot Cameras
If you're a casual photographer looking for a simple, easy-to-use point-and-shoot camera that will allow you to quickly take high-quality photos of your friends and family, these are the cameras for you.
Best Advanced Cameras
For photographers who need a little extra power, but want to avoid the cost and headaches associated with digital SLRs, these Extended Zoom cameras will do the trick. Plenty of advanced features at a fraction of the cost.
Best Pocket Cameras
Check out the smallest, most portable ultracompact digital cameras for shoppers interested in convenience and style.
Best Digital SLRs
When photography isn't just something you do when you go on a trip, but the reason for the trip itself, you've become a serious photographer. These Digital SLRs are the best available, and will allow you to take the absolute best photos possible; just remember, they require a lot of attention.
Digital Cameras at Work
The business applications of digital cameras are almost limitless. From teachers to real estate agents, any professional that needs to capture and share images can benefit from a digital camera.
Buying Your First Digital Camera
If you're baffled by megapixels, stymied by the difference between optical and digital zoom, and generally unsure how to find the right camera for you or your loved ones, this simple, plain English guide should help make things a little easier. We've put together some straightforward tips on what to think about when browsing the vast and varied options available.
Family Digital Cameras
Digital cameras make taking and sharing family photographs fun and easy. From birthdays to barbecues, having a digital camera handy will ensure that you'll never again miss the memorable moments.
10 Things You Need to Know
By Rich Knapp
Summer Vacation Cameras
Take a look at the best cameras for taking photos of your Summer fun.
About Digital Camera HQ
Online vs. Bricks and Mortar
Take a look at the major differences between buying online and buying in a "bricks and mortar" store, and why the latter may not be as good as you think.