Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS10

If you're looking for a tough, inexpensive camera, reviews say the 14.1-megapixel Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS10 is a great value. It's waterproof to 10 feet, shockproof to 5 feet, freezeproof to 14 degrees Fahrenheit and dustproof -- and owners who have taken this tough camera snorkeling, kayaking and the like confirm that it really does live up to these claims, as long as you keep all of the doors properly sealed. Photos taken outdoors look great, reviews say, although image noise pollutes photos shot in dim light.

The TS10 shoots pretty good 720p HD video for such an inexpensive camera, experts say, although they do detect image noise, dull sound and focus problems during fast motion. You can't use the 4x optical zoom while shooting video, and there's no dedicated video record button -- one owner notes that it takes five button presses to switch from photo to movie mode. Testers at Steves-Digicams.com also complain that the battery runs out quickly -- they managed "130 photos and several videos before the battery ran low," less than the 300 photos Panasonic claims -- and that the lens can't go any wider than 35 mm, "which is a bit narrow by today's standards." If image quality and features are more important to you than toughness, reviews say the Canon PowerShot Elph 100 HS (Discontinued) is the best choice under $200.

Steves-Digicams.com tests the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS10 both in and out of the water, posting sample images along with a complete review. ConsumerReports.org and its British counterpart, Which? magazine, also test the TS10, although they don't mention any underwater testing. User reviews at Amazon.com describe how this tough camera handles real-life use.