Buyer's Guide to Inexpensive Digital Cameras

Although expensive digital cameras usually provide more features and better resolution, not everyone can afford to purchase them, and they are not even preferable in some situations.

While you aren't likely to get their photos published on the cover of a magazine, many inexpensive digital cameras can produce photos of sufficient quality for eBay auctions, internet classified ads, and personal use. They are more likely to be compatible with older computers and tend to require fewer batteries. They are also preferable for use by children or in situations where there is some risk of damage.

Internet auctions and shopping websites are often the best places to find low-cost digital cameras. You should be sure to try a number of different searches. 0.3 megapixel cameras may be referred to as "300K", "640x480", or "VGA" cameras by different sellers. Lower-resolution 0.08 megapixel models are also be referred to as having "320x240" resolution.

Even the least expensive digital cameras aren't always entirely featureless. Features which can be found on some under-$25 digital cameras include a tripod socket (Polaroid PhotoMax 320), built-in flash (Vivitar Vivicam 25), or self-timer (Gemini J44416). Some also have the capability to record short digital videos or act as a webcam. However, few digital cameras in this category have an external flash port or previewing screen. The amount of photos the camera can hold in memory should also be considered, along with the number of batteries it requires.

Be sure to check the system requirements before buying a digital camera. Some older models may not work in Windows XP, and others require Windows 98 users to have the 2nd edition of '98 (98 SE). Make sure the camera comes with a cable for connecting it to the computer - USB cable plugs aren't all the same on the end which connects to the camera, and some older cameras use a serial cable instead. If your computer doesn't have USB ports, you will have to find a digital camera with serial cable connection. The Polaroid PhotoMax 320 will work in Windows 95 or 98, while the Vivitar Vivicam 25 needs '98SE or a newer version. Photos will transfer more quickly over a USB cable than serial.

If you don't like shopping online, you can still find inexpensive digital cameras elsewhere, although they are less common. Staples office supply stores have a Mikona digital camera (model DV-8) which sells for $39.99, and Sears offers an Argus 640x480 resolution (0.3 megapixel) camera for $19.99. These prices were as of December, 2006.

Finally, it should be remembered that much better image quality can be obtained from less expensive 35mm film cameras. If you need high-quality digital photographs, a better money-saving option may be to purchase an older scanner (like the Visioneer Paperport 6100; see webpage link) and scan in photos taken with a 35mm camera.