Top 5 Digital Cameras Under $200

In the past, consumers could expect to pay hundreds of dollars for a digital camera. These cameras had resolutions that could not match even inexpensive smartphones of today. My first digital camera had under 1MP and cost around $130, and as the technology increased, I purchased my second camera, an Olympus with 2MP for around $400. As technology become cheaper and viable for the mass market we are starting to see excellent cameras with stunning features for under $200. In this article, we will examine five great cameras for under $200.

Sony - Cyber-Shot 14.1-Megapixel Digital Camera ($179.99)

The Sony Cyber Shot point and shoot camera is an excellent piece of technology for a relatively inexpensive price. The 14.1MP resolution allows for high-resolution images and video. The camera also features a 2.7" LCD monitor for viewing recently taken photos and video. The best features? The face detection technology and image stabilization for shaky hands are excellent features. I previously owned the 10MP version of this camera, and it was the easiest digital camera I have used to date. Priced around $179.99 on amazon.com and bestbuy.com, the Cyber Shot is one of the best cameras under $200.

Canon - PowerShot 12.1-Megapixel Digital Camera ($179.99)

The Canon Digital Rebel was among one of the most popular digital camera models for semi-professional and amateur photographers. However, for the rest of us the PowerShot line was great for high-quality point and shoot applications. The camera features a 2.7" LCD color screen, 4x optical zoon, 12.1MP resolution, red-eye reduction flash and Smart AUTO. The Smart AUTO mode automatically sets the ideal shutter speed for the given environment and conditions. Overall, the PowerShot packs some great features, takes amazing photos, is easy to use and has an affordable price.

Nikon - Coolpix 12.0-Megapixel Digital Camera ($179.99)

The Coolpix features face detection technology, image stabilization, video, 12MP resolution and a variety of other useful features. If you are looking for a great point and shoot camera for still shots then the Coolpix is one of the best cameras available. However, the flash on the Coolpix takes a while to reload and the shutter speed is not excellent, which makes it very hard for capturing action shots. The video capture is excellent and can be loaded directly onto the computer via the SD memory card without any additional software.

Sony - Cyber-Shot 12.1-Megapixel Digital Camera ($139.99)

If you are looking for an inexpensive version of the Sony Cyber Shot 14.1MP version then the 12.1MP version may be your best bet. The camera features 4x optical zoom, face detection technology, image stabilization and video capture. With all the same features as the more expensive model, the $139.99 Cyber Shot is a real bargain for anyone looking for a great point and shoot digital camera.

Samsung - 12.2-Megapixel Digital Camera ($129.99)

The Samsung 12.2MP digital camera takes high-quality images and video, has a variety of user-friendly features, is very easy to use and does not cost a small fortune. The camera has built in face detection technology, 2.7" LCD screen, autofocus, smart auto function and 5x optical zoom. This Samsung comes at an excellent price and the quality cannot be matched at the price range.

Sources:Personal experience
http://www.bestbuy.com/site/Digital-Cameras/Compact-Cameras/abcat0401001.c?id=abcat0401001
www.amazon.com