Fujifilm FinePix F200EXR

In reviews, Fujifilm F-series cameras have a track record of excelling in low-light conditions, but the 12-megapixel FinePix F200EXR takes the game to the next level with Fujifilm's Super CCD EXR technology. The EXR technology "changes the way the sensor's pixels work according to different lighting conditions," says Leonard Goh of CNET (Asia), which allows for better low-light performance and a wider dynamic range than any other digital camera on the market. It's literally three cameras in one sensor, says Mark Goldstein at PhotographyBlog.com, who calls the Fujifilm FinePix F200EXR "a veritable breath of fresh air," that stands out among the competition. The Fujifilm Super CCD EXR sensor has three different modes: high resolution, high ISO/low noise and dynamic range, which shift priority to highest resolution, low light and exposure level, respectively.

Critics applaud the Auto EXR, which recognizes a scene and automatically selects the best shooting mode. "It's the first time we relied so much on an automatic mode because we trusted it," says Goh. The camera also has five film simulation options and 15 presets. Goh and his fellow testers are "astounded by the high dynamic range and low noise levels." Jeff Keller of DCResource.com found the ISO capabilities a full stop better than the competition. In tests at DigitalCameraInfo.com, the F200EXR narrowly beat the Canon SD970 IS (*Est. $320) for color accuracy, and nosed ahead of the Casio Exilim EX-FC100 (*Est. $290) with richer resolution and lower image noise. Despite the expert accolades, a noteworthy number of owners call Auto EXR "hit or miss," adding that the Auto EXR doesn't always choose an appropriate mode and generates extra image noise. Cramped control buttons and insecure handling are also an issue.

Yet despite the chinks in its armor, the majority of critics and users recommend the Fujifilm FinePix F200EXR as the best compact digital camera for shooting in low-light conditions. The Ricoh CX1 (*Est. $320) provides the most formidable competition with its own cutting-edge sensor technology, but it's not as versatile as the F200EXR's. However, the CX1 edges ahead with faster performance and more robust features, including a 7.1x zoom lens and stunning 920,000-pixel, 3-inch display.