Leica V-Lux 30

Reviewers say the Leica V-Lux 30 is a solid performer among ultra-zoom digital cameras, but a high price tag limits its appeal. The 16x zoom lens includes optical image stabilization, which helps prevent blurry images. Indeed, reviewers say photos are sharp, with good detail and colors, and they appreciate the wide-angle zoom, which starts at 24 mm. The retro design also earns rave reviews.

Higher price offers no benefit but the name brand

Image quality is good overall, although like many compact cameras, the Leica V-Lux 30 has evident noise. Noise reduction is evident as low as ISO 400, which contributes to soft details. Ultimately, reviewers say you pay more for the Leica brand. You can find competing ultra-zoom cameras with similar features and image quality for a lot less, but the Leica brand name does appeal to some. For those buyers, reviewers say the Leica V-Lux 30 is worth the price.

The bottom line

If the Leica brand is not a plus for you, experts point to the Canon PowerShot SX260 HS (*Est. $230), which earns the best reviews among ultra-zoom cameras, as a lower-priced alternative.