The Cheapest and Best Compact Digital Cameras

As a professional photographer, I get asked often from family and friends what the best camera is for them. For my professional work, I use a digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera. However, nothing beats the convenience and ease of use that a digital compact camera has. Even with all my expensive gear, I choose to take a compact camera to Disneyland and on outings with my friends and family. They fit in your purse or pocket and are easier to replace if they are lost or stolen. Listed are some of the best digital compact cameras you can get for your money.

Best Digital Compact Cameras: Canon PowerShot A560

This camera costs about $130 and boasts 7.1 megapixels and a 4x optical zoom. The viewing screen on the back is two and a half inches. The real benefit this camera offers is price. The amount of megapixels is ample for large prints and the zoom is adequate. The limitations of this camera are the size and the flash. This camera isn't as small and sleek as cameras that cost a little more and the flash takes awhile to recharge after each shot. This also isn't the best camera for moving subjects and low light situations. You will need to supply two AA batteries once you have used the disposable batteries it comes with. If you don't have a lot to spend this camera is the best in its price range.

Best Digital Compact Cameras: Sony CyberShot DSC-W80

This Sony camera has similar specs as the Canon camera listed above with 7.2 megapixels, a 3x optical zoom and a two and a half inch viewing screen. However, this camera is a lot smaller, comes with a rechargeable battery and has a slightly better image quality. This camera costs around $199. It has a high ISO setting for low light shooting, but keep in mind your image will be quite grainy (or filled with digital noise). Use a tripod for non-moving subjects or add flash.

Best Digital Compact Cameras: Canon SD850

Canon Makes great cameras, that is why they have two cameras on this list. The Canon SD850 can be found for under $300 online. It features 8 megapixels, 4x optical zoom and a two and a half inch viewing screen. This camera has a better sensor than the ones listed above which will make the image quality better. It also has an image stabilization feature which will cut down or blurry images. The LCD screen on the back is coated with an anti-reflection coating. The high ISO settings produce less grainy images than the other cameras listed. This camera also comes with a rechargeable battery. If you can spend a little more this camera will make beautiful images and is easy to use.

Tips for Buying a Compact Digital Camera: Keep in mind that megapixels aren't the only way to measure a camera's quality. Any camera that has over 6 megapixels will produce large prints without distortion. Manufacturer defects are rare with brands like Sony and Canon. However, make sure you buy from a reputable dealer in case you have any problems. The last tip is to make sure you practice using your camera. You can take beautiful professional looking images with an inexpensive digital camera if you know how to use it.