Trade-offs for spending less on a digital camera

While budget digital cameras are affordable, they come with trade-offs in features and performance. Experts agree that these models are great for taking snapshots destined for family photo albums and social networking sites, but they lack the components for sophisticated images.

However, "small doesn't have to be basic," according to Britain's Which? magazine, and some features should be standard: an LCD screen, optical image stabilization, a short-range zoom, autofocus, some shooting modes, built-in flash, a self-timer and non-proprietary memory cards. Most cameras weigh about 5 to 6 ounces, and battery life is typically good for 200 to 400 shots.

Of all the features to consider, pixels are marketed as paramount to a camera's performance. In truth, this is misleading. As ConsumerReports.org editors note, the "number of megapixels directly corresponds to the type of photos you can successfully shoot," but at the same time, the number alone "doesn't determine the quality of a digital camera's images." Experts agree that the sensor on which the pixels reside is equally important, if not more so.

According to Russ Juskalian of The New York Times, "There is more to a digital camera's sensor than resolution." In his article "Pixels Are Like Cupcakes. Let Me Explain," Juskalian describes the sensor mechanics as a "flat sheet of material pocked with millions (hence 'mega') of cylindrical, cuplike pixels. In other words, picture the digital sensor as a tiny cupcake tin." A million pixels make up one megapixel, with each capturing light particles (photons) that enter through the camera lens. Large pixels capture more photons and create brighter color than small ones.

To increase the overall number of pixels, manufacturers often place a greater number of smaller pixels on the same-sized sensor, rather than enlarging the sensor to accommodate more pixels. While the extra pixels increase resolution, it comes at a price. As tech guru David Pogue of The New York Times says, "Cramming more megapixels onto those tiny chips can actually reduce image quality, because the chip heats up and causes colored speckles ('noise') in the photo." The average size of a small camera sensor, says Pogue, is about 1/2.3 inches. To get a better sense, that's 0.4 inches. For comparison's sake, a 1/2.5-inch sensor is 0.43 inches -- a little bigger.

For a budget digital camera, 7 to 8 megapixels is plenty. Any more, and "the small lenses are struggling to keep up," says Phil Askey of DPReview.com. It's an important consideration given that in 2008 alone, 70 percent of the nearly 23 million households that upgraded cameras sought "more megapixels and new features," says Gary Shapiro of the Consumer Electronics Association. However, manufacturers often aren't even making 7- or 8- megapixel cameras; even cheap cameras come with 12 megapixels or more. So choosing a camera with a larger sensor is recommended.

Experts say to consider the following aspects prior to purchasing a budget digital camera:

  • Determine if a budget camera is right for you. If you're interested in a point-and-shoot with automatic settings, a budget digital camera may be the best fit. However, if you're planning to snap lots of long shots, close-ups or action photos, or you want to shoot under diverse lighting conditions, consider a more sophisticated camera.
  • Make a list of key features you want before shopping.
  • Optical viewfinders are hard to find in compact cameras. One way budget cameras cut cost is by eliminating an optical viewfinder, which means you have to use the LCD screen to set up your shots. Look for a large (at least 2.7-inch), high-resolution LCD that won't wash out in bright sunlight.
  • Ease of use is paramount. Make sure the control buttons are easy to access, especially if you have large hands and fingers. The same holds true for the user interface menu. If a camera is too complicated to use, experts say it will likely sit and gather dust. You may save on the initial purchase, but it will be money wasted in the long run. 
  • A higher megapixel count doesn't guarantee better image quality. Experts agree that 7 to 8 megapixels is plenty for a budget model; most current models start at 10 megapixels. While a higher megapixel count increases overall image resolution, it often compromises individual pixel size and image quality. The end result is a noisier photographic image with less vibrant color.
  • Check sensor size. While megapixels aren't as important, sensor size matters. A 12-megapixel camera that sports the same sensor size as an 8- or 10-megapixel resolution may have lower image quality, despite the higher resolution. Take the time to investigate the camera's specifications and read reviews closely.
  • A camera's size affects use. A comfortable, easy-to-carry camera will be used more often than one that is not. When shopping, be honest with yourself about a camera's size, weight and design. How will the camera feel after toting it around for an entire day of sightseeing? As Jefferson Graham of USA Today says, "Cameras that fit in your pocket will get used. Bulkier ones won't leave home as often."
  • Try out cameras at a retail store before you buy one. Shopping on the Internet saves money, but you can't put a price tag on the chance to try a number of cameras yourself.
  • Factor accessories into your budget. Cameras don't come with much on-board memory, so budget for a memory card and a carrying case.
  • Look at the fine print with deep discounts. Sometimes, bargain-basement prices come with a hitch: the camera is either refurbished or a gray-market item. A gray-market digital camera is a product intended for distribution and sale in certain markets, such as Europe or Asia, but sold to buyers in other countries via Internet vendors. Purchase your camera from a reliable source. 
  • Question extended warranties. According to ConsumerReports.org, digital cameras are one of the most reliable products: only 5 percent of the cameras purchased from 2004 to 2007 had a serious problem or needed repairs.

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