This was Sony's first mega-zoom camera, and its combination of lens, price, big LCD, features and build quality, makes it a strong contender in the big-zoom market.

The E-300 offers great quality and functionality when used under optimal conditions. However, its performance for action or low-light photography is completely substandard.

Lots of manual controls and great image quality are offset by the C-55's sluggish response time.

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.

Definitely worth a look, Fujifilm's FinePix F810 is a camera that will appeal to people wanting TV connectivity with widescreen viewing.

The Z2 delivers a wealth of features for a cheap camera and turns out fairly nice photos. With a little practice, you should be able to get better images using its manual modes.

The Exilim Pro EX-P505's combination of photo and video features sounds promising, but its image quality is mediocre on stills, and its video doesn't measure up.

The Canon PowerShot Pro 1 is a well-featured 8Mp semi-professional camera that should suit users wanting digital SLR performance in a compact package.

Produces top-notch photos and will appeal to photographers with a stash of Nikon lenses.

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T33 can take pleasing photos, but its most attractive aspects are its 2.5' LCD and ultrathin body.

An easy-to-use camera that delivers versatile and adaptable functionality and performance.

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