Dave's Picks

High-quality travel zoom appeals to enthusiasts and novices alike... (more)

High-quality travel zoom appeals to enthusiasts and novices alike There's nothing like a pocket travel zoom digital camera when you want to get creative shot on vacation. The PowerShot SX260 HS is Canon's best attempt yet at meeting the needs of both the point-and-shooter and the enthusiast photographer, regardless of the destination. Its 20x zoom has great optical quality, and combined with its 12-megapixel sensor the Canon SX260's image quality is good enough to output a 16 x 20-inch print! What with the built-in GPS, we wish it had a little better battery life, but overall the Canon SX260 is looking pretty good. Click here for our Canon SX260 HS review! (minimize)

The long-zoom "everywhere" camera just got smaller... (more)

The long-zoom "everywhere" camera just got smaller Iconic and capable at the same time, the PowerShot 520 HS represents quite an evolution in Canon's classic ELPH design. Duplicating the same diminutive shape and size as its spiritual predecessors, the Canon 520 offers a 12x zoom ranging from 28-336mm with optical image stabilization. Its 3-inch LCD has a higher resolution of 461K-dots, and its simple control set and intelligent exposure modes make getting good stills and videos easy. Click here for our review of the Canon 520 HS! (minimize)

A major step forward for Canon's flagship premium compact... (more)

A major step forward for Canon's flagship premium compact Canon's PowerShot G-series cameras were some of the first premium compact cameras to really grab the attention of the professional photographer and the amateur shooter alike. With the PowerShot G15, Canon takes a huge step forward by incorporating a fast 5x optical zoom lens with a maximum aperture that ranges from f/1.8 at wide to f/2.8 at tele. The camera also boasts a 12-megapixel, 1/1.7-inch CMOS sensor to produce sharper images and full 1080p HD video recording (finally). And at the heart of the Canon G15 resides a ton of advanced photographic controls, including RAW image capture. One significant downgrade from its predecessor, the G12, however, is Canon's decision to replace the articulating LCD monitor with a fixed one, ostensibly to slim the G15's dimensions. Click here for our final verdict on the Canon G15! (minimize)

A superzoom camera with a super bright lens... (more)

A superzoom camera with a super bright lens Panasonic pumped some new excitement into its acclaimed superzoom line when it paired a Leica DC Vario-Elmarit-branded f2/.8 lens with the Panasonic FZ200. That's a constant f/2.8 max aperture across the entire 24x optical zoom range, which is a rarity among long zooms these days and -- teamed with the camera's excellent AF system -- it proved to perform well in low-light and high shutter speed situations. There's a lot more to like about the FZ200, including a 12 fps, high-res burst mode and Full HD 1080p video recording (at up to 60 fps!). And advanced photographic controls such as manual exposure and focusing, as well as RAW image capture, mean it's a viable alternative for enthusiasts wanting a lightweight, everyday alternative to a heavy, bulky DSLR with multiple zoom lenses (at least in good light), and a serious step up for beginners wanting more zoom range. The FZ200's relatively small sensor (1/2.3-inch) does force some compromises on image quality (like almost every other camera in its class), but the camera's convenience and versatility make it one of the best superzooms on the market. Read our Panasonic FZ200 review for more details, or buy one here. (minimize)

Further refinement makes a great megazoom excellent... (more)

Further refinement makes a great megazoom excellent While Canon's previous megazoom digital camera was a good performer, the PowerShot SX40 HS is a finely tuned upgrade. With the same startling 35x zoom ranging from 24-840mm equivalent, the Canon SX40 sports a new, lower-resolution sensor and a punchy DIGIC 5 processor, resulting in better low light performance and better corner sharpness overall, as well as reduced chromatic aberration. These changes effectively overcome the usual limitations of megazoom cameras, leaving behind only the fun. Click here for our Canon SX40 HS review, or just click here to start shopping for the Canon SX40 HS! (minimize)

The long-zoom "everywhere" camera just got smaller... (more)

The long-zoom "everywhere" camera just got smaller Iconic and capable at the same time, the PowerShot 520 HS represents quite an evolution in Canon's classic ELPH design. Duplicating the same diminutive shape and size as its spiritual predecessors, the Canon 520 offers a 12x zoom ranging from 28-336mm with optical image stabilization. Its 3-inch LCD has a higher resolution of 461K-dots, and its simple control set and intelligent exposure modes make getting good stills and videos easy. Click here for our review of the Canon 520 HS! (minimize)

Nikon's smallest digital SLR to support Full HD video serves up good image quality... (more)

Nikon's smallest digital SLR to support Full HD video serves up good image quality Small and easy to bring along, the Nikon D3100 is a superb upgrade for anyone interested in digital SLR quality photographs. Its 14.2-megapixel sensor gives the Nikon D3100 a little more resolution than most other Nikon digital SLR cameras, and image quality is excellent, even as light levels drop and ISO is forced to rise. Though still low in price, the Nikon D3100 also captures 1080p Full HD video, while a good many digital cameras are still limited to 720p HD. Furthermore, the Nikon D3100 is one of the first digital SLRs able to focus while recording a video, which can come in handy. For novice users, the Nikon D3100 also includes a Guide mode to help users capture better images and learn a bit about photography on the way. It's a great digital camera for the money, with excellent image quality. Click here for more on the Nikon D3100 digital SLR! (minimize)

Canon's new entry-level Rebel adds the latest must-have features, yet still manages an even lower pricetag... (more)

Canon's new entry-level Rebel adds the latest must-have features, yet still manages an even lower pricetag A little under three years ago, we reviewed Canon's Rebel XS SLR, and while we found some quirks that might lead enthusiasts to look elsewhere, we felt it to be a pretty well-rounded design, when the entry-level pricetag was factored into the equation. Although the Rebel XS is still available at a discount until the remaining stock is sold through, the Canon T3 is essentially a replacement for that camera, and as such marks the new entry-level point to the company's SLR lineup. On paper, it's an interesting design, with a mixture of significant upgrades in some areas, and features that have been pared back in others. Based around a newer 12-megapixel image sensor and DIGIC 4 image processor, the Canon EOS Rebel T3 offers up a very worthwhile expansion in its upper sensitivity limit, which now tops out at a useful ISO 6,400 equivalent. It also adds two more focus points, and switches to Canon's clever dual-layer iFCL metering chip, which takes account of color information when determining exposure variables. Canon has also slightly increased the T3's LCD display size, added high definition video capture capability, and updated the kit lens to provide an even more effective stabilization system. With a pricetag some $100 below that of its predecessor at launch, though, something had to give. While the Canon T3 has a new optical viewfinder, it actually has just slightly lower magnification and a significantly tighter dioptric correction range than that of its predecessor. Burst shooting speed is also towards the lower end of the range, compared to its main competitors--and that's in JPEG mode. Switch to RAW or RAW+JPEG shooting, and the burst speed and depth is low indeed. In addition, Canon has removed the mechanical portion of its EOS Integrated Cleaning System, leaving the T3 reliant solely on antistatic coatings and software mapping to combat the adverse effects of dust on image quality. To find out whether one hand gave more than the other took away--and whether the Rebel T3's aggressive pricing makes it easy to overlook the occasional shortcoming--you'll want to read our Canon T3 review. (minimize)

Nikon's J1 answers the demand for a truly compact system camera, and does it with style... (more)

Nikon's J1 answers the demand for a truly compact system camera, and does it with style Nikon bided its time before entering the compact system camera market, and when it finally did so, wasn't afraid to take a path untrodden. The Nikon J1 adopts a rather smaller sensor than its main rivals, but in doing so also offers a worthwhile savings in weight and size--not only for the camera body, but perhaps more importantly for its lenses. That's not the only attention-grabbing feature, either. An unusual hybrid AF system and a speedy new EXPEED processor make the J1 swift even by SLR standards, and all this in a body that looks less camera than fashion accessory. Inquiring minds must know, though: how does that smaller sensor fare against its system camera rivals, and does it offer enough advantage over enthusiast compacts? To find out, click here and read our Nikon J1 review. (minimize)

The long-zoom "everywhere" camera just got smaller... (more)

The long-zoom "everywhere" camera just got smaller Iconic and capable at the same time, the PowerShot 520 HS represents quite an evolution in Canon's classic ELPH design. Duplicating the same diminutive shape and size as its spiritual predecessors, the Canon 520 offers a 12x zoom ranging from 28-336mm with optical image stabilization. Its 3-inch LCD has a higher resolution of 461K-dots, and its simple control set and intelligent exposure modes make getting good stills and videos easy. Click here for our review of the Canon 520 HS! (minimize)

High-quality travel zoom appeals to enthusiasts and novices alike... (more)

High-quality travel zoom appeals to enthusiasts and novices alike There's nothing like a pocket travel zoom digital camera when you want to get creative shot on vacation. The PowerShot SX260 HS is Canon's best attempt yet at meeting the needs of both the point-and-shooter and the enthusiast photographer, regardless of the destination. Its 20x zoom has great optical quality, and combined with its 12-megapixel sensor the Canon SX260's image quality is good enough to output a 16 x 20-inch print! What with the built-in GPS, we wish it had a little better battery life, but overall the Canon SX260 is looking pretty good. Click here for our Canon SX260 HS review! (minimize)

Olympus refines the Pen series with a faster, simpler design... (more)

Olympus refines the Pen series with a faster, simpler design Equipped with an improved lens and a more ergonomic body style, the Olympus Pen E-PL2 addresses several shortcomings of the previous model and refines the company's low-cost compact system camera design. The Olympus E-PL2's new lens design is smaller, lighter, and a little longer, with a more stable lens design and fast, silent autofocus. It even accepts accessory lenses. The E-PL2's 3-inch LCD is also higher resolution than any of the Pen predecessors, and the new Accessory Port 2 is compatible with more new gadgetry, including a bluetooth module that sends your pictures directly to a camera phone. Its 12-megapixel sensor still captures great images, and the Olympus E-PL2 tests faster than its predecessors. Click here for more on the Olympus Pen E-PL2! (minimize)

Sony's NEX-5N might borrow the NEX-5's styling, but don't let that fool you; there's a whole new book under this cover... (more)

Sony's NEX-5N might borrow the NEX-5's styling, but don't let that fool you; there's a whole new book under this cover Sony made quite a splash with its aggressively-styled NEX-5 system camera back in mid-2010, and while the succeeding Sony NEX-5N digital camera is no longer the company's flagship system camera, it builds upon its predecessor with quite a selection of upgrades and new features. There's a new image sensor and processor that bring a wider sensitivity range and support for an electronic first-curtain shutter, gifting the NEX-5N with startlingly good shutter lag and burst-shooting performance. Sony has also revisited its accessory terminal design to add support for a new high-res electronic viewfinder, added a touch-screen interface that makes AF-point selection a breeze, and brought videographers fully manual exposure control. Is it time for first-gen NEX owners to consider an upgrade? Click here to read our Sony NEX-5N review, and find out. (minimize)

Sony RX100 takes the premium pocket camera crown!... (more)

Sony RX100 takes the premium pocket camera crown! We were so impressed with the Sony RX100's specs, we had to rush and give it a complete review in a hurry to see if it truly measured up. We were not disappointed. The Sony RX100's 1-inch, 20.2-megapixel sensor, f/1.8, 3.6x lens, and small body combine to create a new pocket digital camera benchmark. Sony didn't skimp on special features for amateurs or enthusiasts, either. Click here to see our Sony RX100 review! (minimize)

Canon's premium pocket camera gets a better lens, higher resolution, and better video, plus GPS.... (more)

Canon's premium pocket camera gets a better lens, higher resolution, and better video, plus GPS. Canon managed to pack more features into the PowerShot S100 while maintaining the same relative look and feel of their premium pocket digital camera. Higher resolution has lately come at a cost, but Canon raised both the resolution and still image quality while also raising video resolution. The result is a pocket camera that can shoot quality 1080p video while the camera both maintains focus and allows the user to zoom. They even snuck in a GPS and mapping software so you can see where you've been. There's a lot more to tell about the Canon S100, so click here to read our review. (minimize)

One fine, take-anywhere digital camera designed with the photographer in mind... (more)

One fine, take-anywhere digital camera designed with the photographer in mind In the battle for supremacy raging between high-quality pocket digital cameras and high quality mirrorless digital cameras, only two cameras are already considered legendary, and only one of those still has an f/2.0 lens: the Panasonic LX5. Its small Leica-like body actually includes a Leica-branded lens, now with a longer zoom, and both its f/2 lens and its 10-megapixel sensor are tuned for better image quality in low light. A 3-inch LCD and small, lightweight body round out the package, but it's the image quality and camera design that make the Panasonic LX5 special. Unlike many other recent camera designs the Panasonic LX5's low-light prowess and image quality is not dependent on special multi-shot modes, it just comes down to a refined sensor design and a fast, high-quality lens. Click here for our review of the Panasonic LX5. (minimize)

Nikon's D3x is the ultimate picture-taking machine, with the highest image quality we've ever measured.... (more)

Nikon's D3x is the ultimate picture-taking machine, with the highest image quality we've ever measured. The Nikon D3x produces the highest image quality of any camera we've tested to date. Its combination of resolution, color fidelity, and noise performance puts it at the very top of its class. Not only does the Nikon D3x sport an amazing 24.5 megapixels of resolution, it manages to wring more detail out of those pixels (particularly in its NEF-format RAW files) than anything else out there. The D3x also offers surprising speed, capable of 5 frames/second at full resolution, and up to 7.5 frames/second in its 10.5 megapixel DX crop mode. And then there's build quality: The D3x is built like the proverbial tank; capable of handling most anything a busy pro might care to dish out to it. The high-end SLR market often seems like a perpetual game of leapfrog, but for now, the Nikon D3x sits at the top of the heap, as the ultimate digital SLR. Calling it a five-star Dave's Pick is the highest praise we have to offer, but in the case of the D3x, that seems hardly enough... (minimize)

A superb full-frame DSLR, for both stills and video... (more)

A superb full-frame DSLR, for both stills and video The Canon 5D Mark III is a true "superstar" camera, with impressive capabilities for both still and video shooting. It suits the needs of well-heeled amateurs and working pros equally well, and while its resolution is only very slightly higher than that of the 5D Mark II, the Canon 5D Mark III offers so many improvements over its predecessor that it'll be an easy upgrade decision for many 5D Mark II owners. Image quality is superb, and the new autofocus system is fast and accurate. Those who handled the EOS 5D Mark III consistently remarked about the viewfinder experience, particularly the improved autofocus coverage area. There are issues, as with any system, including more limited dynamic range by comparison, and default settings for noise reduction and sharpening are a bit extreme in JPEGs, but most of that can be worked around or avoided by shooting raw. And while we wish the Canon 5D Mark III included a pop-up flash, the camera's low-light performance is stunning, so shooting in ambient light is easier than ever. Click here to read our full review of the Canon EOS 5D Mark III. (minimize)

Canon's new flagship full-frame pro SLR is the one to beat... (more)

Canon's new flagship full-frame pro SLR is the one to beat Canon's curious move paid off, that of merging the 1D and 1Ds lines into one camera that captures very high-res images at a blistering frame rate. While it's not the highest resolution on the pro market, the Canon 1D X really impresses with its high ISO performance, and its 12-frame-per-second burst mode will keep up with athletic events, enabled by its dual DIGIC 5+ processors. Lock up the mirror and you can almost shoot 18-megapixel movies at 14 frames per second. Yet its 18-megapixel resolution is nothing to sneeze at, serving quite well for professional fashion and portrait work. Its 61-point autofocus system covers a good portion of the viewfinder, and includes five high-precision diagonal cross-type points for greater precision with fast lenses, also meeting the needs of the press photographer working in low light. Big and formidable, the Canon 1D X is very much made for pros, and its rugged build is as equal to the job as its impressive image quality. Easily one of the finest cameras on the market, the Canon 1D X is a sure Dave's Pick. (minimize)

A superb digital SLR, excellent for anyone serious about photography... (more)

A superb digital SLR, excellent for anyone serious about photography The Nikon D7000 is a refinement of the already superb D90, a redesign that maintains a small, nimble body while improving nearly every major internal aspect. Its 16.2-megapixel sensor and Expeed 2 processor conspire to output quality images at all ISO settings, from 100 to 25,600, cranking those images out at up to six frames per second. The Nikon D7000's 3-inch LCD sports 921,000 dots, a great place to compose images in Live View mode, as well as check focus. The Nikon D7000's high-res LCD is also excellent for shooting and playing the 1,080p videos that this digital camera captures, and menus are razor sharp. Dual memory card slots, 39 autofocus points, a new color-sensitive meter, a near-100% viewfinder, and in-camera editing round out just a few of the extra features found in the Nikon D7000. Nikon's top enthusiast digital SLR camera is as easy to recommend as a cold glass of lemonade on a hot Summer day, and at least as satisfying. Click here to check out our Nikon D7000 Review! (minimize)

Old and new come together in one high-quality digital camera... (more)

Old and new come together in one high-quality digital camera Small and light, yet solid and weather-sealed, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 is a lot more capable than its size suggests. Image quality is noticeably improved from past Olympus offerings, rivaling that of APS-C SLRs, and its sensor-shift image stabilization system is the most advanced we've seen. Perhaps most importantly, though, the Olympus E-M5 is a whole lot of fun to use, and the ready availability of great glass adds to the party, making you want to get out and shoot. We also love the E-M5's nostalgic appearance, as well as how it feels and operates when we're out shooting. The whole experience is impressive. Click here for our Olympus E-M5 Review! (minimize)

Sony RX100 takes the premium pocket camera crown!... (more)

Sony RX100 takes the premium pocket camera crown! We were so impressed with the Sony RX100's specs, we had to rush and give it a complete review in a hurry to see if it truly measured up. We were not disappointed. The Sony RX100's 1-inch, 20.2-megapixel sensor, f/1.8, 3.6x lens, and small body combine to create a new pocket digital camera benchmark. Sony didn't skimp on special features for amateurs or enthusiasts, either. Click here to see our Sony RX100 review! (minimize)

A superb digital SLR, excellent for anyone serious about photography... (more)

A superb digital SLR, excellent for anyone serious about photography The Nikon D7000 is a refinement of the already superb D90, a redesign that maintains a small, nimble body while improving nearly every major internal aspect. Its 16.2-megapixel sensor and Expeed 2 processor conspire to output quality images at all ISO settings, from 100 to 25,600, cranking those images out at up to six frames per second. The Nikon D7000's 3-inch LCD sports 921,000 dots, a great place to compose images in Live View mode, as well as check focus. The Nikon D7000's high-res LCD is also excellent for shooting and playing the 1,080p videos that this digital camera captures, and menus are razor sharp. Dual memory card slots, 39 autofocus points, a new color-sensitive meter, a near-100% viewfinder, and in-camera editing round out just a few of the extra features found in the Nikon D7000. Nikon's top enthusiast digital SLR camera is as easy to recommend as a cold glass of lemonade on a hot Summer day, and at least as satisfying. Click here to check out our Nikon D7000 Review! (minimize)

Old and new come together in one high-quality digital camera... (more)

Old and new come together in one high-quality digital camera Small and light, yet solid and weather-sealed, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 is a lot more capable than its size suggests. Image quality is noticeably improved from past Olympus offerings, rivaling that of APS-C SLRs, and its sensor-shift image stabilization system is the most advanced we've seen. Perhaps most importantly, though, the Olympus E-M5 is a whole lot of fun to use, and the ready availability of great glass adds to the party, making you want to get out and shoot. We also love the E-M5's nostalgic appearance, as well as how it feels and operates when we're out shooting. The whole experience is impressive. Click here for our Olympus E-M5 Review! (minimize)

Excellent image quality plus refined controls equal one superb camera.... (more)

Excellent image quality plus refined controls equal one superb camera. Making quite a leap for compact system cameras both in terms of image quality and camera control, the Sony NEX-7 really impressed us. We used words like "astonishing" and "amazing" when describing image quality, both printed and onscreen, because the NEX-7's images are even sharper than the A77's. And for an APS-C sensor to approach the quality of the Nikon D3X, well, that is saying something. Its Tri-Navi interface takes the NEX-7's camera control beyond the extra dials we find on other enthusiast digital cameras: Just a single button allows the dials to jump from controlling exposure settings to focus, white balance, D-Range, and Creative Style settings. An excellent electronic viewfinder is tucked in the upper left corner, offering a really big view while keeping the top deck nice and flat, unlike most other designs. The result is a camera custom-built for photographers who want the most control combined with the best image quality. Isn't that what we've all been waiting for? Click here for our Sony NEX-7 review! (minimize)

The long-zoom "everywhere" camera just got smaller... (more)

The long-zoom "everywhere" camera just got smaller Iconic and capable at the same time, the PowerShot 520 HS represents quite an evolution in Canon's classic ELPH design. Duplicating the same diminutive shape and size as its spiritual predecessors, the Canon 520 offers a 12x zoom ranging from 28-336mm with optical image stabilization. Its 3-inch LCD has a higher resolution of 461K-dots, and its simple control set and intelligent exposure modes make getting good stills and videos easy. Click here for our review of the Canon 520 HS! (minimize)

A very small compact system camera that can slip into a medium-size pocket.... (more)

A very small compact system camera that can slip into a medium-size pocket. Hailing from a camera line aimed squarely at enthusiasts, the Panasonic GF3 seems to be angling for consumers, a move that may alienate enthusiast fans. Its 12-megapixel sensor, 3-inch LCD, and touchscreen controls all fit into digicam-size space, yet it first ships with a non-zooming 14mm kit lens, so most consumers will want to wait for the zoom to ship later this month. Its pop-up flash takes the space where a hot shoe would live, and modes are changed via the touchscreen, rather than a physical dial. We found the Panasonic GF3 fun to use and a competent, comfortable companion whether moving about town or packing for a trip. Click here for more on the Panasonic GF3 digital camera! (minimize)

Nikon's smallest digital SLR to support Full HD video serves up good image quality... (more)

Nikon's smallest digital SLR to support Full HD video serves up good image quality Small and easy to bring along, the Nikon D3100 is a superb upgrade for anyone interested in digital SLR quality photographs. Its 14.2-megapixel sensor gives the Nikon D3100 a little more resolution than most other Nikon digital SLR cameras, and image quality is excellent, even as light levels drop and ISO is forced to rise. Though still low in price, the Nikon D3100 also captures 1080p Full HD video, while a good many digital cameras are still limited to 720p HD. Furthermore, the Nikon D3100 is one of the first digital SLRs able to focus while recording a video, which can come in handy. For novice users, the Nikon D3100 also includes a Guide mode to help users capture better images and learn a bit about photography on the way. It's a great digital camera for the money, with excellent image quality. Click here for more on the Nikon D3100 digital SLR! (minimize)

High-quality travel zoom appeals to enthusiasts and novices alike... (more)

High-quality travel zoom appeals to enthusiasts and novices alike There's nothing like a pocket travel zoom digital camera when you want to get creative shot on vacation. The PowerShot SX260 HS is Canon's best attempt yet at meeting the needs of both the point-and-shooter and the enthusiast photographer, regardless of the destination. Its 20x zoom has great optical quality, and combined with its 12-megapixel sensor the Canon SX260's image quality is good enough to output a 16 x 20-inch print! What with the built-in GPS, we wish it had a little better battery life, but overall the Canon SX260 is looking pretty good. Click here for our Canon SX260 HS review! (minimize)

Nikon does it again with the Coolpix P510!... (more)

Nikon does it again with the Coolpix P510! Sometimes product categories are defined by one popular line, and the Nikon P510 continues the tradition of excellence in ultrazoom digital cameras, with a very wide, very long zoom lens and impressive print quality. With a zoom that ranges from 24 to 1,000mm equivalent, it has a tendency to make you see the world differently, allowing you to realize shots you hadn't before imagined. With great handling, a nice grip, an articulated LCD and built-in GPS, the Nikon P510 offers more than ever before. Click here for our Nikon Coolpix P510 review! (minimize)

Sony RX100 takes the premium pocket camera crown!... (more)

Sony RX100 takes the premium pocket camera crown! We were so impressed with the Sony RX100's specs, we had to rush and give it a complete review in a hurry to see if it truly measured up. We were not disappointed. The Sony RX100's 1-inch, 20.2-megapixel sensor, f/1.8, 3.6x lens, and small body combine to create a new pocket digital camera benchmark. Sony didn't skimp on special features for amateurs or enthusiasts, either. Click here to see our Sony RX100 review! (minimize)

The latest Rebel remains a top choice among consumer SLRs... (more)

The latest Rebel remains a top choice among consumer SLRs It's no surprise that the latest flagship Canon Rebel T4i remains easy to recommend. New features like its new 5-frames-per-second frame rate, multi-shot modes -- including HDR -- and Full HD video with stereo recording, are real improvements worth noticing. We weren't as impressed as we expected with the on-sensor phase-detect autofocus, so add a grain of salt to Canon's claims in that area, but it's still a little faster than past offerings, and quieter as well. Add all that to the Canon T4i's excellent 18-megapixel image quality and it's once again easy to recommend the Canon T4i. (minimize)

Old and new come together in one high-quality digital camera... (more)

Old and new come together in one high-quality digital camera Small and light, yet solid and weather-sealed, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 is a lot more capable than its size suggests. Image quality is noticeably improved from past Olympus offerings, rivaling that of APS-C SLRs, and its sensor-shift image stabilization system is the most advanced we've seen. Perhaps most importantly, though, the Olympus E-M5 is a whole lot of fun to use, and the ready availability of great glass adds to the party, making you want to get out and shoot. We also love the E-M5's nostalgic appearance, as well as how it feels and operates when we're out shooting. The whole experience is impressive. Click here for our Olympus E-M5 Review! (minimize)

NEX features and image quality, with a user interface designed to seduce SLR-owners... (more)

NEX features and image quality, with a user interface designed to seduce SLR-owners Sony's NEX cameras have earned a solid reputation for image quality, while at the same time delivering unique and truly useful features like Handheld Twilight and Sweep Panorama modes. The one obstacle for many enthusiast users has been the NEX series user interface. While the Tri-Navi interface on the NEX-7 is one of the best we've used, it's still different from those on most SLRs, and the novice-oriented interface on the lower-end models is just awkward. Deliberately designed to woo SLR users, the Sony NEX-6 offers a much more conventional UI design, with a traditional mode dial with a surrounding function dial, plus a combination 4-way/rotary control dial on the back and four other control buttons plus a dedicated movie button. The result is indeed a camera that will be more immediately familiar to SLR shooters, while maintaining the excellent image quality and unique features that have made the NEX line such a hit. If you've been considering a move to mirrorless, the Sony NEX-6 deserves to be on your (very) short list. (minimize)

Full-frame image quality and a great lens in an astonishingly small package... (more)

Full-frame image quality and a great lens in an astonishingly small package Full-frame sensors have always meant the highest image quality in handheld cameras, but they've also always meant big, bulky, heavy cameras. The Sony RX1 breaks this mold, though, and not just by a little bit. It's hard to convey just how small the Cyber-shot RX1 is without actually handing you one to hold yourself. It's not much bigger than some high-end digicams, and the same size or smaller than some models in Sony's excellent NEX line of Compact System Cameras when you include one of the kit lenses with the latter. The 24 megapixel full-frame sensor is the same as used in Sony's flagship A99 SLT camera, and it's paired with a 35mm f/2 Carl Zeiss lens with T* optical coatings and superb corner to corner sharpness. The combined package is perfect for "street photography" aficionados, or anyone wanting ultimate optical and sensor quality in a super-portable, beautiful little camera. With an introductory price of $2,800, it clearly won't be the camera for everyone, but even at that price, we think it'll be one of Sony's most popular models. If you're looking for ultimate quality in a "pocket" camera, the Sony RX1 defines the state of the art. (minimize)

Large-sensor image quality in a compact, zoom body... (more)

Large-sensor image quality in a compact, zoom body Every once in a while, a camera comes along which offers a genuinely different approach to its rivals. Some--like the first mirrorless models--go on to fundamentally change the market. Others aren't quite so successful. Either way, we welcome designs that think outside the box. The PowerShot G1 X is Canon's first large-sensor compact. Its announcement last Spring prompted much speculation: was this Canon's final answer to that blossoming mirrorless market, or a first tentative step towards its own mirrorless debut? The fixed-lens design and narrower-aspect ratio have allowed Canon to create a large-sensor PowerShot with a worthwhile size advantage over mirrorless models, and a night-and-day image quality advantage over small-sensor cameras. Like many first-gen products, the G1 X does show a few rough edges though. Will the advantages of its unusual design outweigh the drawbacks? For the verdict, read our Canon G1 X review! (minimize)

A major step forward for Canon's flagship premium compact... (more)

A major step forward for Canon's flagship premium compact Canon's PowerShot G-series cameras were some of the first premium compact cameras to really grab the attention of the professional photographer and the amateur shooter alike. With the PowerShot G15, Canon takes a huge step forward by incorporating a fast 5x optical zoom lens with a maximum aperture that ranges from f/1.8 at wide to f/2.8 at tele. The camera also boasts a 12-megapixel, 1/1.7-inch CMOS sensor to produce sharper images and full 1080p HD video recording (finally). And at the heart of the Canon G15 resides a ton of advanced photographic controls, including RAW image capture. One significant downgrade from its predecessor, the G12, however, is Canon's decision to replace the articulating LCD monitor with a fixed one, ostensibly to slim the G15's dimensions. Click here for our final verdict on the Canon G15! (minimize)

Just about everything you need for very little money... (more)

Just about everything you need for very little money When you're looking for a safe choice in a digital camera for only a little money, it's always a good idea to check out the low-end of the Canon ELPH line. Though the Canon SD1300 is the first of the ELPH digital cameras to dip below the $200 mark, it still has what you need to get good quality shots from a pocket camera. The Canon SD1300 has a small, smooth, metal body, a 12-megapixel sensor, a 4x zoom that starts at 28mm, optical image stabilization, and a sharp 2.7-inch LCD. Even with a reduced feature set, I don't think the Canon SD1300 is missing anything the average camera buyer would notice. Canon's done an extraordinary job pruning the SD1300 down to the essentials, while leaving the good image quality intact. Click here for our Express Review of the Canon PowerShot SD1300 IS. (minimize)

The Casio EX-G1 is a sporty, well-built, and quite rugged digital camera... (more)

The Casio EX-G1 is a sporty, well-built, and quite rugged digital camera The Casio EX-G1 challenges typical waterproof digital cameras, offering futuristic lines and a slim profile that practically beg you to charge off on an adventure. Its 12-megapixel sensor, 3x zoom, and 2.5-inch LCD meet all the basic requirements, and the Casio EX-G1's rugged build makes it waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, and freezeproof, able to handle just about all you can throw at it. Image quality is similar to most of the waterproof digital cameras we reviewed last year, with a few compromises here and there, but overall the Casio EX-G1 turns out good quality prints. Click here for more on the Casio EX-G1 digital camera. (minimize)

Touchscreen LCD in an ultra-compact, ultra-wide, very capable camera... (more)

Touchscreen LCD in an ultra-compact, ultra-wide, very capable camera As the first Canon Digital ELPH to offer a touchscreen LCD, the PowerShot SD980 IS also offers a 5x zoom range extending from 24-120mm equivalent, a 12.1-megapixel CCD image sensor, super intelligent automatic features and a very small, pocketable body. The Canon SD980's Smart Auto mode does a good job of assessing common-yet-tricky exposure situations and choosing the best preset mode, and the capable Face, Blink and Motion Detection technologies ensure great portraits. And the Canon SD980's widescreen 3.0-inch PureColor LCD monitor is bright and accurate. Click here to read our Express Review of the Canon PowerShot SD980! (minimize)

A satisfying pocket camera with a long zoom, GPS, and helpful low-light modes... (more)

A satisfying pocket camera with a long zoom, GPS, and helpful low-light modes With a 10-megapixel back-illuminated sensor, a 10x zoom, a built-in GPS, and a very clever way of capturing stable images in low light, the Sony HX5V is another pocket long-zoom digital camera worthy of consideration. The Sony HX5V is one of the few digital cameras on the market to include Sony's Handheld Twilight mode, which takes six rapid images and combines them to form one low-light shot that's usually better than what other cameras can get at high ISO in the same light. The Sony HX5V's 10x zoom ranges from 25-250mm, offering a good wide-angle to solid telephoto range. Its unique grip provides a good hold while not protruding from the body, allowing the HX5V to slip easily into most pockets. The Sony HX5V also serves as a competent HD video camera, recording at up to 1080i at 60 fields per second, in addition to recording stereo audio. Click here for our review of the Sony HX5V digital camera. (minimize)

Once again, one of the finest long zoom digital cameras on the market... (more)

Once again, one of the finest long zoom digital cameras on the market Few long zoom digital cameras are as well-received as the Panasonic FZ line, and that trend continues with the Panasonic FZ35. As we expected, the Panasonic FZ35 is one fine digital camera, with a great lens, good image quality, and more than a few smart features. With a zoom range from 27 to 486mm, the Panasonic Lumix FZ35 will meet just about every need you have on your next outing, and do it in a small package weighing less than a pound. New to the line is HD video capture, allowing up to 1,280 x 720p movie capture, complete with stereo sound. A stack of scene modes, face detection, and several Intelligent exposure modes round out the Panasonic FZ35's features, but it's the relative speed and printed image quality of this digital camera that impressed us so. Click here for our review of the Panasonic Lumix FZ35. (minimize)

The Canon PowerShot G11 is the G10 done better... (more)

The Canon PowerShot G11 is the G10 done better Giving ear to your most ardent supporters is always a good idea when planning new products, and that's just what Canon did with the Canon PowerShot G11. That change in focus brought back the articulating LCD that was sorely missed by many G-series fans. Canon also took a bold step and reduced the resolution from 14-megapixels to 10, all in an effort to make the Canon G11 a better low-light camera rather than an unnecessarily high-resolution design that struggled to strike a balance between noise and its suppression. Our printed results show that Canon succeeded in reducing chroma (color) noise in the Canon G11's images well enough to produce images of about the same size, but with less noise and less blurring from noise suppression overall. Lens quality is still quite excellent, with minimal chromatic aberration and excellent sharpness in the corners, also likely a result of the switch to a 10-megapixel sensor. The Canon G11 is a joy to use, with its manual EV compensation and ISO dials, articulating LCD, and extremely capable design. Click here to read our Canon PowerShot G11 Review for more on this fine camera. (minimize)

One of the finest premium enthusiast cameras on the market... (more)

One of the finest premium enthusiast cameras on the market Almost in a category by itself, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3 digital camera really impressed us. With a 10-megapixel imager, a high quality Leica lens, and a high-resolution 3-inch wide-screen LCD, the Panasonic LX3 was built to deliver high image quality in a small package. Gone are the noise problems of the LX2, and detail is lush. A full range of capture modes graces the LX3 -- auto and manual -- plus a hot shoe, manual AF and aspect ratio controls, and the little digital camera even shoots RAW. The Panasonic LX3's color was natural, and impressive printed results tell the rest of the story. The Panasonic LX3's price is competitive, too, more than an inexpensive digicam, but less than a digital SLR. Click here to see why the Panasonic LX3 has put my piggy bank on the endangered species list. (minimize)

The price of full-frame digital SLR excellence just went down a notch... (more)

The price of full-frame digital SLR excellence just went down a notch With a design and features that will attract a wide array of photographers, the Nikon D700 is the first full-frame digital SLR camera to break the $3,000 barrier at its introduction. Based on the popular Nikon D300, the Nikon D700's controls are poised for quick activation, with commonly used functions out in plain sight, rather than buried in a menu. The Nikon D700's full-frame sensor is essentially identical to the Nikon D3's, so image quality is superb, and high-ISO performance is unprecedented, ranging from 100 to 25,600. A large, high-resolution LCD screen serves up images that are sharper than normal, and menus likewise appear razor-sharp. Special features adorn the Nikon D700, including a 51-point autofocus system, Active D-Lighting image processing, Lateral chromatic aberration correction, Vignette control, and AF Fine-tune capability; all making the camera extremely adaptable. Nikon's latest offering is a great digital SLR camera to build a system around. Click here for our review of the full-frame Nikon D700 (minimize)

Nikon's flagship prosumer SLR model is the first SLR capable of video recording, but that's just one of its many exceptional features!... (more)

Nikon's flagship prosumer SLR model is the first SLR capable of video recording, but that's just one of its many exceptional features! Nikon rocked the DSLR world when they introduced their D90 SLR early this Fall, the first SLR that can record movies. Its video capabilities won't replace dedicated camcorders, but will provide welcome relief for photographers tired of carrying along a pocket digicam just for taking "video snapshots". Its movie recording is only one of the many exceptional features the Nikon D90 has to offer. It also incorporates the chromatic aberration correction capability first introduced in the D3 and D300 high-end models. This feature works regardless of the brand lens you're using, so the D90 promises to improve the quality of most any lens you use it with. Speaking of lenses, the Nikon D90 ships with one of the nicest kit lenses we've seen yet, a 18-105mm VR (vibration reduction, Nikon's name for Image Stabilization) model that delivers very good sharpness, and (thanks to the aforementioned CA-reduction capability of the camera) very little chromatic aberration. The Nikon D90 brings much, much more to the table, though, far more than we can go into here. If you're in the market for a high-end prosumer digital SLR camera, the Nikon D90 deserves to be near the top of your list for consideration. Read our Nikon D90 review for all the details! (minimize)

A superb full-frame DSLR, for both stills and video... (more)

A superb full-frame DSLR, for both stills and video The Canon 5D Mark III is a true "superstar" camera, with impressive capabilities for both still and video shooting. It suits the needs of well-heeled amateurs and working pros equally well, and while its resolution is only very slightly higher than that of the 5D Mark II, the Canon 5D Mark III offers so many improvements over its predecessor that it'll be an easy upgrade decision for many 5D Mark II owners. Image quality is superb, and the new autofocus system is fast and accurate. Those who handled the EOS 5D Mark III consistently remarked about the viewfinder experience, particularly the improved autofocus coverage area. There are issues, as with any system, including more limited dynamic range by comparison, and default settings for noise reduction and sharpening are a bit extreme in JPEGs, but most of that can be worked around or avoided by shooting raw. And while we wish the Canon 5D Mark III included a pop-up flash, the camera's low-light performance is stunning, so shooting in ambient light is easier than ever. Click here to read our full review of the Canon EOS 5D Mark III. (minimize)

A superb digital SLR, excellent for anyone serious about photography... (more)

A superb digital SLR, excellent for anyone serious about photography The Nikon D7000 is a refinement of the already superb D90, a redesign that maintains a small, nimble body while improving nearly every major internal aspect. Its 16.2-megapixel sensor and Expeed 2 processor conspire to output quality images at all ISO settings, from 100 to 25,600, cranking those images out at up to six frames per second. The Nikon D7000's 3-inch LCD sports 921,000 dots, a great place to compose images in Live View mode, as well as check focus. The Nikon D7000's high-res LCD is also excellent for shooting and playing the 1,080p videos that this digital camera captures, and menus are razor sharp. Dual memory card slots, 39 autofocus points, a new color-sensitive meter, a near-100% viewfinder, and in-camera editing round out just a few of the extra features found in the Nikon D7000. Nikon's top enthusiast digital SLR camera is as easy to recommend as a cold glass of lemonade on a hot Summer day, and at least as satisfying. Click here to check out our Nikon D7000 Review! (minimize)

Excellent image quality plus refined controls equal one superb camera.... (more)

Excellent image quality plus refined controls equal one superb camera. Making quite a leap for compact system cameras both in terms of image quality and camera control, the Sony NEX-7 really impressed us. We used words like "astonishing" and "amazing" when describing image quality, both printed and onscreen, because the NEX-7's images are even sharper than the A77's. And for an APS-C sensor to approach the quality of the Nikon D3X, well, that is saying something. Its Tri-Navi interface takes the NEX-7's camera control beyond the extra dials we find on other enthusiast digital cameras: Just a single button allows the dials to jump from controlling exposure settings to focus, white balance, D-Range, and Creative Style settings. An excellent electronic viewfinder is tucked in the upper left corner, offering a really big view while keeping the top deck nice and flat, unlike most other designs. The result is a camera custom-built for photographers who want the most control combined with the best image quality. Isn't that what we've all been waiting for? Click here for our Sony NEX-7 review! (minimize)

PowerShot flagship stronger than ever after all these years... (more)

PowerShot flagship stronger than ever after all these years As the longest running line in digital camera history, the G-series has produced its finest camera yet: the Canon PowerShot G12. Though more of a refinement of the G11, the Canon G12 sports a 10-megapixel sensor, a 5x optical zoom ranging from 28-140mm equivalents, and a 2.8-inch swiveling LCD. That LCD is no slouch, either, with 461,000 dots and excellent color. A new electronic level function helps ensure straighter horizons, and a new set of aspect ratio gives you greater control over image shape. 720p HD movie mode is also new to the Canon G12, now with stereo sound as well. And a special HDR Scene mode makes shooting high-dynamic range images pretty easy so long as you shoot them with a tripod. High ISO performance is very good, actually besting the Canon S95, and overall performance is about what we'd expect, making the Canon G12 an excellent all-purpose camera, even if it's not quite shirt or pants pocketable. Click here for more on the Canon G12, one of the best digital cameras you can buy! (minimize)

A great quality lens and smart design make the XZ-1 a choice premium digital camera... (more)

A great quality lens and smart design make the XZ-1 a choice premium digital camera Long a pioneer in quality small cameras, Olympus has finally entered one of the more popular categories among digital cameras with the Olympus XZ-1. Competing with the Canon S95 and Panasonic LX5, which also have 10-megapixel sensors and wide-to-mid-range zooms, the Olympus XZ-1 merges ideas from both into a premium pocket digital camera with a very special lens. The XZ-1 is not only special because it has a 28-112mm, f/1.8 lens, which is 1/3 stop faster than its rivals, it is the first time Olympus has branded a lens with the Zuiko name. Our tests show that it's not just window dressing: This i.Zuiko lens has impressive corner sharpness, especially at wide-angle, besting its rivals. It sports an OLED display, and the ability to add the excellent VF-2 electronic viewfinder made for the Olympus Pen cameras. Sensor image quality is quite good from ISO 100 to 400, but noise suppression starts to soften detail from 800 and up a little more than its rivals. That doesn't take away from the potential of the XZ-1 for all manner of photography, though, as it still produces better results optically than other cameras in its price range. It's an impressive first offering in the premium pocket digital camera market. Click here for more on the Olympus XZ-1! (minimize)

A well-built waterproof digital camera with a unique look... (more)

A well-built waterproof digital camera with a unique look Finally, a waterproof digital camera that looks the part: the Canon PowerShot D10. Capable of diving to 33 feet, falling from four feet, and withstanding temperatures of 14 degrees Fahrenheit, the Canon D10 is ready to weather some tough conditions; tougher than most digital cameras. Its 12-megapixel sensor delivers crisp images to its 2.5-inch LCD, and its 3x zoom is protected within a sturdy bell housing, protected from impact and weather. As with almost all digital cameras, the Canon D10 makes a better wet camera than a dry camera, with more significant corner softening than we see from most digital cameras in the pocket category, but that's a side-effect of shooting through an additional pane of glass on the front of the sturdy housing, something you won't notice in your underwater pictures. The flip side is that you won't be worrying about a lens cap with the Canon D10; instead your only concern will be having more fun with your waterproof digital camera! Click here to read more about the Canon PowerShot D10 waterproof digital camera. (minimize)