Best Digital Cameras for Your Buck

Don?t drop a small fortune on a new digicam when you can score one of these models for under $250.

Shutterbugs, rejoice. Thanks to today’s bevy of inexpensive point-and-shoot digital cameras, many ideal for everyday use, amateur paparazzi will find that this summer, there’s no need to spring for a luxury DSLR capable of snapping magazine-quality shots. That said, we’ve rounded up some of the best options vacationers and thrill seekers alike can buy on a budget.

Better yet, while the following models will all take great pictures, you’ll also feel comfortable bringing each model with you no matter where you travel. Although at these prices, even if one does happen to find its way into the lion’s den at the zoo, at least you won’t have to go home with a broken heart. Or, for that matter, out a (doh!) thousand bucks…

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS7, $160 MSRP

While many manufacturers opt for cheaper materials to cut costs on their budget cams, Panasonic’s 10.1 megapixel FS7 unit feels just as solid as many of its pricier siblings, thanks to the brushed aluminum case and high-quality build. The company’s Intelligent Auto mode coped well with varying shooting conditions in our tests as well, and the comfy size of the camera allows you to tote it along virtually anywhere without inconvenience.

Canon PowerShot A590 IS, $130 MSRP

Canon’s A-series cameras don’t emphasize style quite as much the firm’s far sexier Digital ELPH cams do, but if you can look past the bland exterior on this model, it’s one of the best performers for the money. The A590 IS has earned accolades for its excellent 8-megapixel still shots, ease of use, and flexibility.

Check out our Canon PowerShot A590 IS Review.

Kodak V1273, $230 MSRP

Considering buying a budget digital high-definition (HD) camcorder like the Flip MinoHD or Creative VadoHD along with a traditional point-and-shoot? Roll both devices into one with this option instead, which shoots 720p HD video at 30fps, along with 12-megapixel stills. It’s also exceptionally slim and shoots quite rapidly, making it ideal for those moments of furious snapping when you don’t want to miss a second’s excitement.

Canon PowerShot SD1100 IS, $180 MSRP

You won’t be able to bust this one out without someone telling you that they own the same device, but there’s a reason for its popularity. Canon’s brisk-selling SD1100 IS has earned a reputation as a practical, low-cost, and high-quality subcompact, making it a surefire bet for someone who always wants to have a camera handy. Although Canon has updated its successor, the SD1200 IS, with a Digic IV processor, we’re not yet convinced the upgrade is worth the $50 price difference between them for buyers on a budget.

Check out our Canon PowerShot SD1100 IS Review.

Casio Exilim EX-S10, $190+ Street

We’re still waiting for Casio to fulfill the potential of its “card” cameras by making one so slim that it fits inside a wallet, but in the meantime, the S10 comes pretty darn close with a slender depth of just 0.6 inches. In other words, if you’re looking for a camera that’s easy to stuff into your skinny jeans, this one’s a qualifier. Expect to save about $60 over the new S12 because it’s last year’s model, albeit without major sacrifices in terms of portability, natch.

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W220, $180 MSRP

The second least-expensive model in Sony’s Cyber-shot series inherits many features from its pricier brethren including SteadyShot image stabilization, top-notch face detection features, a 12.1 megapixel sensor behind Carl Zeiss glass and a generous 2.7-inch LCD screen with respectable 230,000 pixel resolution. Just beware that Sony still insists on using its own Memory Stick Duo card format for storage, so you won’t be able to use the same interchangeable SD memory cards that every other brand on the planet wisely prefers using.

Nikon Coolpix L20, $130 MSRP

Just the basics, please. Nikon’s super-budget L20 won’t capture HD video, stitch together panoramas on the fly, or zoom from your house to the state border, but it does offer a 10.0 megapixel sensor, 3.6x zoom, and a beefy 3-inch screen that consumes nearly the entire back. Oh, and the lowest price in our selection of featured cameras, of course.

Olympus Stylus 850 SW, $160 Street

Just because you’re buying a camera with the expectation it might take a spill doesn’t mean you have to buy a wimpy one that will give up without a fight. Olympus’ 850SW is one of the most affordable rugged cameras out there, and it will withstand drops up to five feet, submersion in water up to 10 feet, and temperatures down to 14 degrees. Order it in eye-searing yellow, blue or pink shades, and you’ve stacked the odds against accidental loss too.

Samsung S860, $80 Street

Sometimes, simplicity is all it takes. Like the Coolpix L20, this camera’s main draw is the exceptionally reasonable price point, but it’s not hurting for features either: You get an 8.1-megapixel sensor, 3x zoom, face detection, and even an unusual self-portrait feature that will audibly tell you when you’ve centered on your own face to take a shot. Owners also rave about its dead-simple operation.

Fuji Z33WP, $170 Street

For frequent beachgoers and others lured to the water’s edge, nothing makes more sense than a waterproof camera like Fuji’s Z33WP. Not only will it resist the stray splash, it can also safely follow you right into the water to photograph life below the surface as well. Fuji also offers a line of aqua-savvy accessories like silicone and neoprene cases and a float strap, though skin-tight Speedos are (phew) mercifully still sold separately.