Best Digital Cameras
By David Elrich Check out the best digital cameras, as rated by Digital Trends’ expert reviewers.
Don’t listen to what anyone says: Digital cameras aren’t dead. While the rapid innovation in the smartphone segment means there are some new challenges for point and shoots, quality camera manufacturers are taking notice and evolving their own technology, so image quality and cameras themselves have never looked better. Megapixels and sensor size continue to increase and camera bodies keep on getting sleeker, all while outfitting these devices with more manual controls and simpler learner curves. Check out our up-to-date list of the best digital cameras, which runs the gamut and includes everything from Micro Four Thirds, entry level pocket cams, and full-frame DSLRs.
Our best digital cameras list is continually updated as we review new products that enter the market.
Sony Alpha NEX-7
If you’re looking for a camera that’ll last for years and has tons of options to help you grow as a photographer, buy the Sony alpha NEX-7.
Pros Outstanding stills, Excellent noise-ha...
Cons Expensive, GUI has a definite learning...
Our Rating:
Specifications
Megapixels 20 Megapixels and Over
Features Articulating Screen
Type Micro Four-Thirds/Mirrorless
Optical Zoom Not ApplicableFujifilm X10
The X10 defies category, so it doesn’t seem fair to lump it in with prosumer point-and-shoots. Whatever it is, this camera will easily become your go-to fixed-lens option...
Pros Fantastic image quality, Sharp design,...
Cons Complex in-camera UI, AF was only adequate
Our Rating:
Specifications
Megapixels 12 - 14 Megapixels
Optical Zoom 4 - 6x
Features HD Video Recording
Type Point and shoot
Face Detection YesCanon PowerShot SX40 HS
If you’re considering a mega-zoom, the Canon PowerShot SX40 HS is a slam dunk
Pros Awesome 24-840mm zoom, Quality stills,...
Cons A steady grip is a must at maximum tel...
Our Rating:
Reader Rating: Specifications
Megapixels 12 - 14 Megapixels
Features HD Video Recording
Optical Zoom Over 12x
Type Point and shootNikon D5100
The Nikon D5100 takes solid photos and videos, offering the response shutterbugs demand as they move from point-and-shoots to “real” cameras.
Pros Quality 16-megapixel images, 3-inch va...
Cons Kit lens is just a starting point, Awk...
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Specifications
Megapixels 16 - 18 Megapixels
Type DSLR
Features HD Video Recording
Optical Zoom Not ApplicableSony Cyber-shot DSC-WX9
The Sony DSC-WX9 is the best camera under $200 we have ever tested.
Pros Excellent 16MP stills, Outstanding AVC...
Cons Digital noise at ISO 800 and above, No...
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Reader Rating: Specifications
Megapixels 16 - 18 Megapixels
Features 3D-Capable
Optical Zoom 4 - 6x
Face Detection 8 Faces (Auto / Off / Child Priority / Adult Priority / Key Selected Face Memory)
Type Point and shootOlympus XZ-1
The Olympus XZ-1 is a solid investment for those looking to move beyond point-and-shoots and will keep users of various skill levels interested while delivering impressive results.
Pros Quality feel, comfortable size and wei...
Cons Interface might throw off even some ex...
Our Rating:
Specifications
Optical Zoom 4 - 6x
Features HD Video Recording
Type Point and shoot
Aperture Priority YesCanon EOS Rebel T3i
The Canon T3i features sterling picture quality, eminently usable vari-angle screen and solid 1080p HD videos, you really can’t go wrong with it.
Pros Fine 18-megapixel images, Excellent 3-...
Cons Tends to run warm indoors, Video is go...
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Specifications
Megapixels 18 - 20 Megapixels
Type DSLR
Face Detection Yes
Aperture Priority YesNikon D7000
It’s easy to understand why the Nikon D7000 ranks up there in popularity, even with a $1,200 price tag. Simply put, if you’re serious about photography, you want this camera
Pros 16.2MP APS-C DSLR, Terrific photos, Ve...
Cons Hard to find and forget about a price ...
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Reader Rating: Specifications
Megapixels 16 - 18 Megapixels
Features Aperture Priority
Type DSLR
Optical Zoom Not ApplicableNikon Coolpix P510
The Nikon Coolpix P510 balances many tradeoffs: Lots of hardware features, but sub-par video. Easy-to-use controls, but poor low-light performance.
Pros Nice and easy to hold – lightweight bu...
Cons Video capabilities are limited, Low li...
Our Rating:
Specifications
Megapixels 16 - 18 Megapixels
Features 3D-Capable
Lens 42x optical Zoom
Type Point and shootSony Alpha NEX-F3
The small size, quality of the stills and videos and the nicely-loaded feature set make this camera a good option for anyone shopping for a CSC or entry-level DSLR this season.
Pros Quality 16-megapixel stills and AVCHD ...
Cons As usual, puzzling NEX menu system, Do...
Our Rating:
Specifications
Megapixels 14 - 16 Megapixels
Features Articulating Screen
Type Mirrorless
Optical Zoom Not Applicable
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