Cheap Digital Cameras: Reviews

The Canon PowerShot A1100 IS wins accolades as a versatile budget camera that's neither too big nor too small. With exceptional image quality, the 12-megapixel A1100 IS packs a 4x optical zoom lens, optical image… stabilization, a 2.5-inch LCD monitor, an optical viewfinder and the latest Digic 4 image processor. Features include Easy Mode for fully automatic snapshots and plenty of programmed shooting modes, including scene modes such as foliage and fireworks. Like many cameras in its class, the A1100 IS has its drawbacks: delayed shooting speeds, image noise at higher ISO settings and a limited 140-shot battery life when using AA batteries. Conveniently, it also accepts rechargeable Ni-MH batteries; you can expect to take about 350 shots between recharges. The A1100 IS sports a slightly chunky design that's easy to grip; reviewers say its buttons are large and laid out well.

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If pocketability is a priority, the diminutive Canon PowerShot SD1200 IS leads the pack. At less than an inch thick and weighing 4.2 ounces, this 10-megapixel, ultra-compact camera costs a bit more but offers plenty of… features. Reviews praise its superior image quality and quick shooting speeds, with minimal shutter lag and next-shot delay. The 3x optical zoom has image stabilization, and the vibrant 2.5-inch LCD monitor packs a 230,000-pixel resolution. Other pluses include programmed shooting modes and special scene settings, as well as face detection technology. The new Digic 4 image processor improves picture quality and even enables tracking of moving subjects. The SD1200 IS lacks manual aperture and shutter settings, and its small size and flush buttons can leave users groping for control. If compactness isn't a priority, the chunkier Canon PowerShot A1100 IS offers easier handling at the same price.

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It costs only $20 or $30 more than the absolute cheapest digital cameras, yet reviewers say the Canon A480 is less of a compromise than its competitors. It's touted by reviewers as a dependable camera at a great price… and is recommended for first-time buyers and children. This 10-megapixel, 4x zoom camera comes with 10 preset scene modes plus extras like movie capture, as well as face and motion detection technology. The 2.5-inch LCD monitor matches other cameras in its class, but the A480 lacks an optical viewfinder. The camera is fully automatic, easy to use and has an impressive 470-shot battery life (if you use rechargeable Ni-MH batteries), although it's a bit too big to slip into an average pocket. Like the A1100 IS, it also takes regular AA batteries, which are good for about 240 shots. Image stabilization is absent, and the A480's photo quality can't match its pricier and more advanced siblings, the Canon PowerShot A1100 IS and Canon PowerShot SD1200 IS. Still, critics agree that for the price, the A480 is a great choice.

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