GE E1486TW

The GE E1486TW makes its mark as one of the most affordable touch-screen cameras available -- plus it has some unusual high-end features for its price. While many budget models are made of plastic, the 14-megapixel GE E1486TW has a sturdy yet lightweight aluminum chassis (4.8 ounces). It also sports a 3-inch LCD display, an 8x zoom lens with optical image stabilization (offsets natural handshake), plenty of automatic features and HD video (720p) with an HDMI port for easy TV playback. Its closest competitor -- the Nikon Coolpix S4000 (Discontinued) -- has nearly identical specs but only half the zoom span (4x), while the more powerful, highly rated Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX10 will set you back nearly $100 more.

While experts praise the hearty features and easy operation, the E1486TW's performance doesn't pack the same punch. Editors at Steves-Digicams.com say the touch screen's response time lags, which is something to consider since nearly everything is done using the interface. Like many budget models, the autofocus and shooting speeds plod along, and image quality is good but not spectacular. However, battery life looms as the biggest letdown: Critics and users say it's dismal. "You get what you pay for," say editors at Steves-Digicams.com, who note that other budget cameras offer superior performance and photos for the price, albeit without a touchscreen.

Steves-Digicams.com is the only source with an extensive review of the GE E1486TW, although it doesn't offer much product comparison. ConsumerReports.org and Choice magazine conduct meticulous lab tests with product ratings and comparison charts, but neither provides lengthy summaries. Owner reviews from Amazon.com help to round out the landscape, revealing problems that may surface only with extended use.