Dave's Picks

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)

18 megapixels of high-ISO power and Full HD video in a capable digital SLR design... (more)

18 megapixels of high-ISO power and Full HD video in a capable digital SLR design
More clearly aimed at the consumer market, the Canon 60D represents something of a sea change for this formerly enthusiast camera line. With the 7D now tasked to meet the intermediate to professional photographer's needs, Canon has retooled the 60D to better serve as a step-up model for Rebel owners who want a little more, rather than as the lower-priced competition to the 7D. The Canon 60D is more clearly aimed at the Nikon D7000, with both now capable of capturing full 1080p video. Its 18-megapixel sensor is roughly equivalent in ability to the T2i and 7D's sensors, which means the EOS 60D does extremely well even at high ISO settings. Its redesigned body and interface make the Canon 60D a pleasure to use, and the versatile 18-135mm kit lens is a capable companion. We enjoyed our time with the Canon EOS 60D. Click here for more on the Canon EOS 60D digital SLR camera. (minimize)

One digital SLR that pretty much does it all... (more)

One digital SLR that pretty much does it all
The Canon EOS 7D stands alone. It's a digital SLR camera that can capture 18-megapixel images at 8 frames per second and 14-bit depth, with a quite usable ISO range from 100 to 12,800. The Canon 7D offers Live View, full manual exposure control while recording movies, Full HD movie recording, a new 19-point, all-cross-type autofocus system, a near-100% optical viewfinder, and built-in support for controlling up to three groups of Speedlite strobes. You can choose from one or two of those items with other cameras from Canon and other manufacturers, but if you want it all in one body, the Canon 7D is your only choice at any price. Printed quality is nothing short of astonishing, with images from ISO 100 to 800 looking great when printed at 20x30 inches. That you can get it all for $1,699 is pretty amazing. Click here to read our review of the Canon 7D. (minimize)

Whether you're shooting stills or videos, the Canon T2i is an excellent choice... (more)

Whether you're shooting stills or videos, the Canon T2i is an excellent choice
Canon ignored the rest of the digital camera industry when they limited resolution over the last few years, putting an 18-megapixel sensor in their consumer flagship Rebel T2i, and as a result the camera stands head and shoulders above any other offering under $1,000. Where you'd expect more noise from this 18-megapixel digital camera, the Canon T2i actually delivers less than its predecessor, while increasing the quality of detail at all ISO settings. Also upgraded on the Canon T2i is 1080p video at 24, 25, and 30fps, and video editing tools are built right into the camera. Still shooting mode also gets a frame-rate increase to 3.7 frames per second, up just a tad from 3.4 fps. Both still and video quality from the Canon T2i are very impressive. Click here to check out our comprehensive Full Review of the Canon Rebel T2i. (minimize)

The flagship Rebel offers just about all you could wish for in a consumer SLR... (more)

The flagship Rebel offers just about all you could wish for in a consumer SLR
Truly easy to recommend, the versatile Canon T3i sets the standard at the top of the consumer SLR market. Especially if you're looking for a reasonably affordable SLR that lets you shoot from multiple angles, the Rebel T3i should be at or near the top of your list. With an 18-megapixel sensor, a high-res articulating LCD, an improved grip, and Full HD video recording, the Canon T3i has what it takes to get great shots in most conditions. Its bundled 18-55mm kit lens is improved over its predecessor, and the alternate 18-135mm kit lens is also good quality, covering a near-ideal range for most situations. Image quality is good enough for 20x30-inch prints from ISO 100 to 3,200, and ISO 12,800 shots make a good 8x10. It's quite a camera, to be sure. Click here for more on the Canon T3i! (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)

A good quality pocket camera with a very wide angle lens... (more)

A good quality pocket camera with a very wide angle lens
When you think of quality pocket digital cameras, the Canon S95 and G12 are top of the list. But don't ignore the Canon 500 HS, an ELPH with a wider lens than either of those cameras, and a noticeably more pocketable shape. Its major unique feature is its touchscreen, which dominates the back of the camera, much like the screen of a smartphone. Its Full HD video capture, Handheld NightScene, and High Speed Burst modes number among the standout features, but enthusiasts will be drawn to the Canon 500's Aperture and Shutter priority modes, which offer a little more control than the average point and shoot. Click here for more on the Canon PowerShot 500 HS! (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)

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)

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)

Pocketable quality continues, this time with built-in WiFi... (more)

Pocketable quality continues, this time with built-in WiFi
Taking the main photographic elements of its predecessors and remixing them with the latest trends in connectivity and communication, the Canon S110 remains a top choice for discriminating photographers looking for a take-anywhere camera that will bring home quality images. Whereas the previous model employed a built-in GPS, the Canon S110 uses its WiFi radio to pull in GPS from the nearly ubiquitous smartphone, a slick trick. The WiFi setup isn't as easy as it should be, but that's not a big selling point; if it is for you, be sure to consider that. Printed image quality is on par with its predecessors, and shutter lag improved quite a bit. Overall, though, the PowerShot S110's pocketable quality continues. (minimize)

A refined pocket digital camera with an f/2 lens... (more)

A refined pocket digital camera with an f/2 lens
The quest to build the better high-quality pocket digital camera continues with the Canon PowerShot S95, with its 10-megapixel sensor and fast, f/2.0 lens. Among its premium-quality competitors, the Canon S95 is the smallest digital camera with such a fast lens. Its understated, stealthy appearance will be popular with street photographers and the Canon S95's easy customization will gain the admiration of all photographers, period. The Canon S95's hold on users becomes complete with the gorgeous, 420K-pixel, 3-inch LCD screen. Anyone serious about having a quality camera with them at all times will love the optical and final image quality of the Canon S95. It's worth a closer look. Click here for more on the Canon PowerShot S95! (minimize)

Pocket long zooms don't get much better than this... (more)

Pocket long zooms don't get much better than this
Canon takes a quality pocket long zoom and adds both a GPS radio and Full HD video for a more complete package. The resulting Canon PowerShot SX230 delivers good image quality and pretty nice video quality as well, while maintaining that impressive 14x, 28-392mm zoom lens. We found some minor trouble with chromatic aberration, unsurprising at this focal length, but otherwise enjoyed the Canon SX230, indoors and out. It'll make an excellent travel camera, thanks to the wide and long zoom, as well as the GPS to match your photos to a map, and it offers as much automation or manual control as you could want. Click here for our review of the Canon SX230 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)

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)

A retro look, great features and stunning image quality make the Fujifilm X-Pro1 a real winner... (more)

A retro look, great features and stunning image quality make the Fujifilm X-Pro1 a real winner
Quality prime lenses and a tack-sharp sensor come together with a unique hybrid optical viewfinder to form the Fujfilm X-Pro1, a digital camera built exclusively for enthusiast photographers. The X-Pro1 really hits the nail on the head, driving deep into high-ISO territory with tack-sharp images. Its controls and feature set are also ideal for the target market, and its available lenses are reasonably priced, small, well-made, and light weight. We found it to be a terrific photographic tool, easy to control, and a joy to use. Click here for our review of the Fujfilm X-Pro1, or just take our word for it and shop for the Fujfilm X-Pro1 now! (minimize)

A superb manual-focus digital camera with a rich heritage... (more)

A superb manual-focus digital camera with a rich heritage
Shooting with the Leica M9-P and 50mm f/1.4 Summilux-M lens taught us a lot about why people love Leica cameras. But we also learned why most people don't shoot Leica rangefinders, and it isn't just about the very high price tag. Shooting with any manual focus, aperture-priority camera is a little more challenging than most people are used to. Once we got back into the swing of shooting with manual focus and exposure, shooting with the 18-megapixel M9-P was quite fun, and many of our images were stunning. Looking at our lab shots, we found a few nit-picky flaws, too, but not much that would keep us from recommending the Leica M9 wholeheartedly if photography is a hobby for you--and if you have the significant cash to afford one. Click here to see what we thought of the Leica M9-P! (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)

Nikon's premium camera gets an upgrade that makes it shine... (more)

Nikon's premium camera gets an upgrade that makes it shine
Just a year after the Nikon P7000 hit the enthusiast digital camera market, Nikon replaced it with a slightly tweaked version that improves speed and performance, while maintaining the excellent optical and image quality. Nikon's fixes make a digital camera that's not just pleasant to shoot, but whose images are worth talking about. Its 28-200mm equivalent lens covers a greater range than its nearest competitor, and maintains pretty amazing image quality. A new articulated VGA LCD screen also makes the Nikon P7100 a little more versatile than its predecessor. We think it's a worthy upgrade. Click here for our Nikon P7100 review and get the whole story! (minimize)

Revamped flagship enthusiast digicam scores big on design and image quality... (more)

Revamped flagship enthusiast digicam scores big on design and image quality
It's taken three tries but Nikon has finally produced a flagship Coolpix camera that stacks up favorably to its top competitors, boasting an upgraded 12-megapixel sensor and a fast 7.1x zoom lens with a maximum aperture of f/2.0. Nikon removed the optical viewfinder from the Coolpix P7700, but we actually see this as a plus, especially since the 3-inch vari-angle LCD screen is easy to view and allows you to compose in tight spots. Sans viewfinder, the Nikon P7700's design is more compact, comfy and classic than its predecessor. Ultimately, it comes down to image quality and the P7700 delivers sharp still images and Full HD videos -- with just a few quirks -- and produces large, high-quality prints at lower ISOs. Click here for our review of the Nikon P7700, or click this link to shop! (minimize)

An extremely capable SLR gets even better... (more)

An extremely capable SLR gets even better
More of an evolutionary upgrade to the D300, the Nikon D300S sports a faster frame rate, dual-media capability, and HD video capability. While the Nikon D300S has the same 12.3-megapixel sensor as its predecessor, it can now capture up to 7.1 frames per second, which increases to 8 frames per second with the optional battery grip. The new SD/SDHC slot gives the Nikon D300S greater versatility, and it still has a Type I CompactFlash slot to work with the more traditional professional standard. But the big story with the Nikon D300S digital camera is its HD movie mode, capable of capturing 1,280 x 720 pixel videos at 24 frames per second. Though it has a built-in monaural microphone for audio recording, the Nikon D300S also includes a stereo mic-in jack for higher quality recording than was offered with the Nikon D90. Users can frame images via the big, beautiful optical viewfinder or the large, high-resolution LCD in Live view mode, and they can view their images and videos direct from the camera thanks to the Nikon D300S's HDMI-out port. The Nikon D300S is an impressive digital camera. Click here for our full review of the Nikon D300S. (minimize)

Smaller and lighter full-frame digital SLR is a kick to use... (more)

Smaller and lighter full-frame digital SLR is a kick to use
Nikon leads the way again, with the first "affordable" full-frame digital SLR. Fun to shoot, the Nikon D600 offers as little or as much control as you want, perfect for both amateurs and more advanced photographers; even pros will feel right at home. Its 24.3-megapixel sensor offers excellent detail, and performs well in low light. In addition to stills, the Nikon D600 captures Full HD video at a greater range of frame rates, and includes not only great audio controls and an external mic jack, but a headphone jack to monitor what you're recording. There is a bit of a dust issue with the Nikon D600, which seems to be worse in the first few thousand frames, so users should learn to clean their sensors. Still, the Nikon D600 is an excellent digital SLR with impressive image quality. We have no trouble recommending it highly. Click here for our Nikon D600 review, or click the link to shop now! (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)

Despite its smaller sensor, the Nikon V1 is part of a unique and capable photographic system... (more)

Despite its smaller sensor, the Nikon V1 is part of a unique and capable photographic system
Choosing a smaller sensor, the Nikon V1 didn't earn a lot to praise from the spec hounds at its introduction, but Nikon was aiming at a smaller system overall, including lenses. They certainly achieved that, while maintaining excellent image quality and including impressively fast autofocus speed. Though many were disappointed with the smaller sensor, our test results show the Nikon V1's image quality to be quite good for a 10-megapixel sensor, and optical quality is impressive too. Overall, the Nikon V1 makes a great compact system camera that stands up well against the premium pocket cameras it was designed to challenge. Click here for our Nikon V1 Review! (minimize)

'FAST' isn't just an acronym, when it comes to the Olympus P3's autofocus system... (more)

'FAST' isn't just an acronym, when it comes to the Olympus P3's autofocus system
Although it looks very similar to its previous PEN-series flagships externally, the Olympus PEN E-P3 includes several significant changes. Key among these is a new brand-new autofocus system, branded 'Frequency Acceleration Sensor Technology', or FAST for short. Olympus showed supreme confidence in choosing the name, and it wasn't misplaced: the E-P3's AF performance actually rivals that of many SLRs. The P3 also includes a new touchscreen interface, and a built-in popup flash that addresses one of the main concerns with its predecessor. Tweaks in its imaging pipeline are more subtle, however; the sensor design seems little-changed from that used by its predecessor two years earlier. Are the improvements in other areas enough to compete in today's mirrorless camera market, given how competitive it's become? Read our Olympus PEN E-P3 review, and find out! (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)

A great little compact system camera with surprisingly good performance... (more)

A great little compact system camera with surprisingly good performance
Though it lacks a mode dial for the more sophisticated shooter, that's about all that's missing from the Olympus E-PM1, a great little compact system camera, and its targeted audience won't miss the mode dial at all because they'll be too busy appreciating all the gorgeous images they're getting with the E-PM1's excellent 12.3-megapixel sensor, complete with sensor-shift image stabilization. The bundled 14-42mm lens is also worth more than meets the eye, with good optical quality and super-silent autofocus. With its tiny body and retractable lens, we think the Olympus E-PM1 is the sleeper digital camera of the last year, and is an easy impulse buy when found for under $400. (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)

Excellence returns to the Panasonic megazoom line... (more)

Excellence returns to the Panasonic megazoom line
Can image quality rise with a reduction in resolution? Apparently so, as the 12-megapixel Panasonic FZ150 dramatically proves. We roundly criticized the FZ150's 14-megapixel predecessor as quite a step back when compared to Panasonic's other ultrazoom digital cameras, but they're back with a significantly improved design that puts them back in the winner's circle. The FZ150's excellent optics, 3-inch LCD, and solid build are now matched with a fine sensor and image processor that's worth writing about. Click here for more on the Panasonic FZ150! (minimize)

A new benchmark in compact system cameras... (more)

A new benchmark in compact system cameras
Panasonic has updated their G-series line of compact system cameras, and the new G3 looks like a real winner. We've had hands-on with a beta sample of the new model, and it's impressed us greatly with its handling and image quality. In fact, image noise seems very much on par with that from the larger APS-C size sensors used in full-size DSLRs. The new G3 is noticeably more compact than the G2 that it replaces, and Panasonic also appears to have further improved shutter lag: In field tests, everyone remarked on how fast its shutter response was. The design incorporates a new 16-megapixel image sensor, and the same high-speed Venus Engine FHD image processor as previously featured in the more expensive GH2 model. Other improvements since the earlier camera include a picture-in-picture Manual Focus Assist function, pinpoint focus mode, Full HD (1,920 x 1,080 pixel) movie capture, and two separate Intelligent Auto operating modes that offer varying degrees of user control. Read our Panasonic G3 review for all the details! (minimize)

There's nothing micro about the performance of this compact, lightweight digital camera... (more)

There's nothing micro about the performance of this compact, lightweight digital camera
The Panasonic Lumix G5 takes the highlights from Panasonic's well-regarded G-series of Micro Four Thirds digital cameras and rolls them all into one package. The Lumix G5 feels better thought out than many entry-level DSLRs, including a touchscreen LCD monitor and speedy autofocus, at roughly the same price. Boasting better ergonomics and handling than the previous-model G3, the Panasonic G5 also boosts its video performance by adding Full HD recording at 60p, and a full-range of frame rates that make it perfect for serious photographers and videographers alike. If you want a compact, lightweight, easy-to-operate interchangeable lens camera with a 14-42mm lens that captures high-quality images at an imminently affordable price, then the 16-megapixel Panasonic G5 should place high on your short list. (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)

Really fast autofocus in a compact body you won't leave at home... (more)

Really fast autofocus in a compact body you won't leave at home
Back in mid-2011, Panasonic launched its tiny Lumix GF3, nicely demonstrating the size advantage of mirrorless over SLR cameras. This year's Panasonic GF5 takes that design and swaps in an improved sensor, faster image processor, higher-resolution touch screen display, and a raft of other tweaks. Key among the changes for us has to be the Panasonic GF5's improved autofocus performance: the GF3 was already fairly fast by mirrorless camera standards, but the Panasonic Lumix GF5 goes a step further, besting many consumer DSLRs. Panasonic has also updated its touchscreen user interface, finally allowing almost overlay-free image framing and reducing distraction. Do these and other changes take a good consumer camera and make it great? And are the advantages of the GF5 enough for more experienced photographers to overlook the lack of a viewfinder and flash connectivity? Read our Panasonic GF5 review, and find out! (minimize)

Optimized for stills and video, the Panasonic GH2 is a surprisingly capable camera... (more)

Optimized for stills and video, the Panasonic GH2 is a surprisingly capable camera
Though most of today's digital SLRs and CSCs can do video, only a few are made for video, among them the Panasonic GH2, whose sensor and autofocus system are tuned for both stills and video. Capable of capturing 16-megapixel stills and 1080i HD video, the Panasonic GH2 has a faster sensor and a Venus Engine FHD processor, both tuned for recording video at a faster bit rate than the GH1. Autofocus for stills is blazing fast, especially for a contrast-detect system, easily rivaling SLRs in speed, and that speed is useful in the Panasonic GH2's video recording as well, as one of the few hybrid cameras that can autofocus during recording. With both an articulating, touch-sensitive LCD and a superb Electronic Viewfinder, the Panasonic GH2 offers a little more than most compact system cameras, but it's also a little larger than most, coming close in size to a small consumer SLR. Stereo recording and a high ISO of 12,800 round out the package. Panasonic's selection of excellent lenses, as well as those from other Micro Four Thirds vendors, assures a good selection of available optics, including a special 3D lens which we also try. Click here for more on the Panasonic GH2! (minimize)

One step back, two steps forward: the Panasonic GX1 will please enthusiast photographers... (more)

One step back, two steps forward: the Panasonic GX1 will please enthusiast photographers
As a digital camera made expressly for enthusiasts, the Panasonic GX1 is a little larger than the smallest compact system cameras, but is still small enough to bring along easily. While the GX1 is in some ways a return to an older design, it still includes improvements in resolution and image quality. Its new touchscreen interface also manages to add a bit of utility as well; and an expanding list of compatible lenses make the Panasonic GX1 an appealing digital camera. Click here for more on the Panasonic GX1! (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)

A serious photographer's digital camera in a small package... (more)

A serious photographer's digital camera in a small package
Panasonic's deluxe pocket digital camera line has long been a favorite of photographers as a capable, small take-everywhere camera, when lugging their pro camera was too much to ask. Improved in several ways, the Panasonic LX7 digital camera is a joy to shoot. Key refinements that will appeal to photographers include a manual aperture ring, a manual focus toggle, and a faster, high quality lens. As we've come to expect from Lumix digital cameras, the LX7 also has rock-solid image stabilization, and the new level gauge helps straighten your horizons. Optical quality stands out as the major enhancement, which gave us the confidence to place key subjects in corners without worry that they'd be too soft. The new faster lens -- a full stop faster -- allows faster shutter speeds in low light, and delivers fairly nice bokeh as well. We enjoyed shooting with the Lumix LX7, and felt comfortable with it as our only digital camera on several outings. Click here to see our review of the Panasonic LX7, or just follow our shopping link to find the best price. (minimize)

Great images and enthusiast features at a price the rest of us can afford... (more)

Great images and enthusiast features at a price the rest of us can afford
Among digital SLRs, there are two kinds of "good". There's the good that makes you think it's time to trade your old SLR in for a newer model, and there's the good that has you seriously considering selling your existing lenses and accessories, and jumping ship to a different lens mount. On paper at least, the Pentax K-30 manages the latter. It takes the imaging pipeline of the well-received K-01 mirrorless camera, and places it in a body that includes several features simply unheard of at its price point. There's a near-100% pentaprism viewfinder, well-considered ergonomics with control dials front and rear, and comprehensive weather sealing throughout. Even if you're not a Pentaxian, the K-30 is a camera that likely has you sitting up and paying attention, and it comes with a pricetag you won't struggle to justify. But does the K-30 live up to all that on-paper promise? Read our Pentax K-30 review, and find out! (minimize)

Whether in snow, or rain, or gloom of night, the Pentax K-5 is designed to excite... (more)

Whether in snow, or rain, or gloom of night, the Pentax K-5 is designed to excite
Two years ago, Pentax unveiled the K-7, a camera that impressed us greatly thanks to a rich prosumer feature set, and a weather-sealed, cold-proofed body barely any larger than the typical consumer SLR. As well as drawing our praise for its great handling, the K-7 grabbed our attention with some really unusual capabilities, many of which have since mirrored by competitors, although a couple--including automatic horizon leveling and composition adjustment--are still unique. The Pentax K5 replaces that camera, leaving it with some pretty mighty shoes to fill. The K-5 retains its predecessor's body design almost unchanged, but brings a wide variety of changes throughout the rest of the design. Key among these is the K5's new 16 megapixel image sensor, believed to be a Sony chip closely related to that in Nikon's D7000. Coupled with Pentax's PRIME II image processor, this allows full-resolution shooting at up to an unusually high ISO 51,200 equivalent, as well as Full HD (1,080p) movie capture, and a manufacturer-claimed seven frames-per-second burst shooting mode. The K5 also updates the K-7's autofocus system, provides an unusually fine degree of control over high ISO noise reduction, adds the ability to disable long exposure noise reduction altogether, adds a second axis to the electronic level gauge, and incorporates a wide number of tweaks and additions to the user interface, including additional User modes and in-camera effects functions. All the new features do come at a cost, though. The Pentax K5's list pricing is almost a quarter higher than that of the K7, and even when considering street pricing, there's quite a premium over its nearest competitors from the likes of Nikon and Canon. With that said, the Pentax K-5 brings in some new features that are rare to completely unique among its peers, so we went into our review with an open mind as to the K5's value proposition. Curious to see if we ended up believing the Pentax K5 to be worthy of its price tag? If so, you'll want to click here and read our full review of Pentax's latest flagship SLR. (minimize)

Pentax's latest enthusiast flagship boasts better low-light autofocus and a more rugged display... (more)

Pentax's latest enthusiast flagship boasts better low-light autofocus and a more rugged display
For the third straight generation, the Pentax K-5 II retains the surprisingly compact body that debuted with 2009's K-7. That's great news because it's still one of our favorites, pairing great ergonomics and a generous array of external controls. The Pentax K-5 II also retains the 16 megapixel image sensor that debuted in the K-5, and while that lags some current rivals in terms of resolution, it still impresses with swift burst shooting, great image quality and a wide sensitivity range. What's new? There's a tweaked AF system that should focus better in low light, and a more rugged tempered glass cover over the main LCD panel. Pentax's enthusiast flagship also carries more sensible list pricing than did the K-5. Sure, it's a relatively modest mid-term update, but given the popularity of its predecessor, that's no bad thing. If you're a still image shooter in the market for an enthusiast SLR, the Pentax K-5 II is a camera we're happy to recommend! Click here for more on the Pentax K-5 II, or click this link to shop! (minimize)

Pixel-peepers of the world, form an orderly queue: the Pentax K-5 IIs was made for you!... (more)

Pixel-peepers of the world, form an orderly queue: the Pentax K-5 IIs was made for you!
Let's be clear from the start: the Pentax K-5 IIs is not a camera for the average photographer. Just as in Nikon's D800E, the lack of an optical low-pass filter in the K-5 IIs maximizes per-pixel detail at the risk of introducing moiré into your images. If you solely shoot subjects such as landscapes where the fine patterns that trigger moiré are rare, though, or you spend all your time in the studio with full control of your subject, that low-pass filter might just be robbing your images of subtle detail for no good reason, and removing its effect might be very desirable indeed. Sadly for you, there aren't many cameras without a low-pass filter, and fewer still of these are SLRs. The Pentax K-5 IIs represents your most affordable OLPF-free option in a weather-sealed DSLR body. In other respects, it's identical to the Pentax K-5 II, itself a Dave's Pick camera. If you have an insatiable desire for per-pixel detail, that makes the Pentax K-5 IIs something of a no-brainer! Click here for more on the Pentax K-5 IIs, or click this link to shop! (minimize)

Pentax's latest consumer SLR keeps its predecessor's great noise performance, while correcting its biggest bugbears... (more)

Pentax's latest consumer SLR keeps its predecessor's great noise performance, while correcting its biggest bugbears
When we reviewed Pentax's K-x consumer SLR last year, we were wowed by its rich feature set and impressive noise performance, but questioned the wisdom of several design choices likely made in the interests of achieving its affordable price tag. With the debut of its followup Pentax K-r, the company has shown that it was listening by answering our biggest criticisms of the earlier model. Key among the changes are the addition of autofocus point indicators in the viewfinder, and a redesigned body with pleasingly retro styling that accommodates a larger, significantly higher resolution LCD panel. A handy increase in burst shooting performance to almost six frames per second ensures that Pentax retains the title of fastest entry-level digital SLR. There's also an interesting new dual power-source design that follows popular demand with a proprietary lithium-ion pack, but--unlike every other SLR manufacturer--still caters to those who prefer AA batteries without a bulky external grip, courtesy of an in-body adapter. Although there are numerous more subtle changes throughout, the 12.4 megapixel K-r is largely similar to its predecessor in other respects, with in-body image stabilization, an 11-point autofocus system, 1/6,000 second top shutter speed, and high-definition 720p video capture capability. A generous selection of creative features such as in-camera HDR, a cross-processing function, numerous pre- and post-capture digital filters, and the ability to develop raw files in-camera combine to make the Pentax K-r particularly well-suited to right-brain types who don't want to spend time fiddling around with post-processing on a computer. Were all this offered at the same pricetag as its predecessor, the Pentax K-r would've been a sure thing, but therein lies the rub: Pentax has also increased its pricing by almost a quarter over that of the K-x. Having specifically called for many of its added features, we went into our review of the Pentax K-r with a certain feeling of having made a rod for our own back. To find out if we stayed resolute in our desire for the changes--added cost notwithstanding--read our full review of Pentax's latest consumer SLR. (minimize)

Another competent camera in the compact system space... (more)

Another competent camera in the compact system space
With its unique curved slab shape, the Samsung NX100 really stands out. Smaller than past Samsung compact system cameras, the NX100's retractable kit lens helps keep it small. Its 14.6-megapixel CMOS sensor is APS-C sized, and its 3-inch display is a 640x480 AMOLED. Unlike its larger predecessor, the Samsung NX100 has no flash and no electronic viewfinder, but it does have a hot shoe for attaching an electronic viewfinder or an external flash. We found its interface endearing and innovative, and enjoyed our time with the Samsung NX100, but had a little trouble with noise suppression in the JPEG files and wobbly videos. Our investigation led us to the RAW files to decide whether the Samsung NX100 was only for consumers, or whether it would also work for enthusiasts. Overall we were impressed with the Samsung NX100's speed, style, and image quality, especially in the RAW files. Click here to see all the details in our Samsung NX100 review. (minimize)

This entry-level mirrorless is heavy on the features, not on the wallet... (more)

This entry-level mirrorless is heavy on the features, not on the wallet
Affordable is good: money saved on your next mirrorless camera means money to burn on lenses and accessories. The Samsung NX1000 compact system camera sets a new benchmark for NX-series affordability, but unlike some rivals, it's not been pared down to the bare minimum to achieve its $700 pricetag including kit lens. On the contrary, the Samsung NX1000 sports some features that aren't so common at this price point: built-in WiFi Direct wireless networking connectivity, i-Function control over camera settings from the lens, a dual-axis level gauge, and an external flash hot shoe. Not to mention Full HD high-definition video capture capability, complete with support for an optional external microphone -- and incredibly, you can plug your headphones into the mic to monitor audio levels! The Samsung NX1000, then, is a camera that offers a lot more than you'd expect for the price. If that's not worth a Dave's Pick, we don't know what is! Click here for more on the Samsung NX1000, or click this link to shop! (minimize)

Takes great shots and delivers them to social media too, straight from the camera... (more)

Takes great shots and delivers them to social media too, straight from the camera
With an SLR-like appearance and smooth styling, the 20.3-megapixel Samsung NX20 takes up the flagship position in the company's mirrorless lineup, offering interchangeable lenses and an electronic viewfinder. The new camera offers new possibilities with the inclusion of WiFi, complete with backup options, connectivity with smartphones, PCs and tablets, as well as direct hooks into popular social media websites. Image quality is quite good, but the camera has a little trouble with JPEG images at ISO 1,600 or above. We enjoyed shooting with it, as well as shooting via remote control from a tablet, so click here to see what we thought of the Samsung NX20! (minimize)

Samsung's NX200 makes some serious strides, improving both performance and image quality... (more)

Samsung's NX200 makes some serious strides, improving both performance and image quality
With a whole new look on the outside, the Samsung NX200 gets quite a few internal upgrades compared to its predecessor, not the least of which is its 20-megapixel sensor. Combined with a new lens design and a slick menu system, we found the Samsung NX200 a kick to use. We were most impressed with the improved image quality and faster autofocus, and a few of the special Smart Filters were interesting as well. Click here for our Samsung NX200 review! (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)

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)

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)

Sony's entry-level mirrorless camera frees you from behind-the-camera drudgery... (more)

Sony's entry-level mirrorless camera frees you from behind-the-camera drudgery
Are you the designated photographer for your family? If so, there's a good chance something is missing from your photo albums: you. Fulfilling the duties of family record-keeper means you spend almost all your time behind the lens, making an occasional appearance only for posed, tripod-mounted shots. The Sony NEX-F3 aims to solve the problem with an updated, tilting LCD panel that can now be seen from in front of the camera, putting you back into the family album. And that's not the only worthwhile update over Sony's previous entry-level mirrorless model. There's also a built-in popup flash that saves you from carrying an external strobe, and a restyled body with a much more prominent handgrip. As you'd expect of a NEX-series camera, the Sony F3 offers great image quality, despite a pricetag even the family photographer can justify. So... is it high time you upgraded your camera for a new NEX? Read our Sony NEX-F3 review, and find out! (minimize)

Pro-camera burst performance and full-time AF in a camera that enthusiasts can afford... (more)

Pro-camera burst performance and full-time AF in a camera that enthusiasts can afford
With the Alpha SLT-A77, Sony makes a bold step into pro camera territory by combining an extremely high-res 24 megapixel APS-C image sensor, a speedy Bionz image processor, and its phase detect-friendly Translucent Mirror design. The result? A camera that can shoot at up to an astounding twelve full-resolution frames per second, while still adjusting focus between frames. The Sony A77 also boasts a go-anywhere weather-sealed design, and yet still manages to include a versatile tilting LCD monitor, something not offered by its nearest rivals. Add built-in GPS and Full HD, 60 frames-per-second video with full-time phase detect autofocus, and you've got quite a camera on your hands. Whether you're a sports shooter, an enthusiastic videographer, or you've just got hyperactive kids to keep up with the Sony Alpha A77 should prove more than up to the task. All that at a price tag that an enthusiast can justify makes the Sony A77 an easy Dave's Pick. Click here for our review of the Sony A77, or click this link to shop! (minimize)

Sony delivers a no-excuses full-frame SLR breakthrough... (more)

Sony delivers a no-excuses full-frame SLR breakthrough
Sony's been trying to crack the pro SLR market for years, but with relatively little success till now. With the Sony Alpha SLT-A99, though, it looks like they finally have a winner: It's a blazingly fast shooter, yet delivers 24 megapixels of resolution, while Sony's unique translucent-mirror technology means it can focus rapidly, continuously, and accurately, whether shooting videos or rapid-fire bursts of stills. It's also the only full-frame camera with very effective sensor-based image stabilization built in, providing IS benefits regardless of what lens is attached. The list of the Sony A99's features goes on and on, including a unique range-sensitive AF mode, a super-resolution EVF, built-in GPS, and a rugged magnesium-alloy frame with full weather sealing that's both smaller and lighter than most other high-end full-frame SLRs on the market. If you're looking for a true professional-grade full-frame SLR with unparalleled continuous AF capability, great shooting speed, and a price literally half those of its nearest competitors, look no further than the Sony A99. It offers truly ground-breaking capabilities at a price sure to shake up the pro camera marketplace. (minimize)

A great all-in-one imaging solution for travel photographers... (more)

A great all-in-one imaging solution for travel photographers
Superzooms are rather like the Swiss Army knives of the digital camera world. Where some cameras seem tuned for a specific task, superzooms like the Sony HX200V aim to cover every possibly shooting situation. All that zoom reach means compromises must be made. Done right, you get a great travel companion. Done wrong, no amount of zoom will help you. On paper, the Sony HX200V looks impressive: a 30x zoom lens, 18 megapixel sensor, tilting display, geotagging, and more. How does its real-world performance measure up? Read our Sony HX200V review and find out! (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)