Much lighter and smaller point-and-shoot cameras are available, but the S60 is a great choice for people seeking a camera that has powerful creative controls.

A solid compact camera that offers a great set of features, and is only really let down by long load and save times.

A great option for the more experienced photographer, the P600 offers all the functionality you could want from an advanced camera; the only downfall is the four figure price tag.

If image quality is all that matters to you, then the F10 is a good choice, but it's let down by a few omissions and a price tag to rival some 7 megapixel models.

This is an attractive combination of a competitive price, small size and capable imaging, with a few advanced extras thrown in. The built-in help would benefit novice photographers.

Extensive in-camera coaching and some convenient extra features make the easy-to-use HP Photosmart R717 a great choice for an ambitious beginner.

If you can handle its slowness between shots and other minor flaws, you'll have yourself a great camera.

The small and rugged Canon Digital IXUS 700 is a good companion for capturing everyday mementos, though image quality may disappoint more demanding photographers.

The Exilim EX-Z55's slim shape and big LCD make a winning combination for quick, anytime snap-shooting.

Nikon's diminutive 5.1-megapixel camera is simple to use, and it delivers more-powerful features than you'd expect from a camera priced at under $300.

It's small, stylish and takes some great shots, but some layout problems can make it quite irritating to use.

This beautiful looking camera produces equally beautiful pictures.