Digital Cameras (Ultra-Compact): Reviews

Critics identify the Canon PowerShot SD880 IS as the best ultra-compact digital camera overall. In addition to great image quality and ease of use, the 10-megapixel Canon SD880 IS has optical image stabilization, which… helps counteract natural hand tremors and makes capturing sharp photos much easier, especially in low light. Its face-detection feature works better than most, and helps lock the autofocus on your subject. A Face Self-Timer waits for the photographer to join the scene before snapping a shot. The wide-angle (28 mm) 4x zoom lens is a cut above those found in some other ultra-compact digital cameras, and makes it easier to take group photos, especially in tight quarters. Manual controls are limited, but allow for some creativity.

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Compared to the Canon SD880 IS above, the Canon SD1100 IS has slightly lower resolution and a smaller LCD display, but costs $50 less. Otherwise, reviews say photo quality and features are comparable, with a slight edge… in photo quality going to the SD880 IS. Still, for the money, experts say the less expensive Canon is excellent, with quick startup and shot-to-shot times and first-rate images with great colors and sharpness. Both are point-and-shoot cameras, so manual controls are limited, but scene modes help photographers tackle common shooting situations. The camera comes in five colors.

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In most reviews, photo quality for the Nikon Coolpix S210 lags behind that of the Canon PowerShot cameras above. But at less than 3/4-inch thick and in four snazzy colors, the 8-megapixel Nikon S210 scores points in… reviews for style. The Canon models above take better pictures and are speedier performers, but they are also notably larger. Considering its size, the S210 can produce good-looking snapshots in it own right, and is a snap to use; it's also less expensive.

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Although the Olympus Stylus 1030 SW gets merely average scores for image quality, all reviewers compliment its outstanding build quality. This is one of the few truly waterproof (down to 33 feet) digital cameras on the… market. The Olympus is also shockproof (it can withstand drops of over six feet) and freeze-proof (to 14 degrees Fahrenheit) -- which means it can survive a jump in the lake or a trip down the ski slopes better than most other cameras. Still, if you are not looking for a camera to take on your outdoor adventures, other cameras in the same price range take better photos overall.

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