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Best Cameras Under $150

You don't have to spend a lot of money to get a top-of-the-line digital camera. We've rounded up a selection of high-quality, well-reviewed, affordable digital cameras to prove that great digital camera deals can be found, and you can take great photos without spending too much money.

Best Cutting-Edge Cameras

These cameras have all sorts of unique features that represent new ideas and innovations in digital cameras. Check out what these cutting-edge cameras can offer and see if it's the kind of thing that might suit you.

Best Extended Zoom Cameras

These extended zoom cameras make excellent gifts for budding photographers interested in gaining more experience with advanced techniques. They're not as complicated or as expensive as high-end dSLRs and require no interchangeable lenses. They offer long-range zooms, wide-angle lenses, and plenty of manual control so the shooter can have a say in how their photos look. Each of these cameras provides an excellent opportunity for someone to really step up one's game.

Best Digital SLRs

This year has seem some extraordinary advances in digital SLRs, namely the introduction of high-definition video to this class of cameras. For consumers looking to get into high-level photography or in search of the perfect gift for your camera-loving loved one, these five SLRs are the cream of the crop. There's a camera here for all skill levels, from the budding enthusiast to the consummate professional. Take a closer look at what makes them so special.

Best Point-and-Shoot Cameras

If you're looking for the perfect introductory camera for your mother, father, or child, or simply need an easy-to-use camera that just works for yourself, these point-and-shoot cameras will do the trick. Perfect for casual photographers who don't want to fuss with the details, the following cameras are designed to be straightforward and simply take great photos right out of the box, while still having some potential for growth should you be interested. These are perfect holiday gifts, ready to make memories for photographers of any skill level.

Best Pocket Cameras

Cameras keep getting smaller and smaller while their feature sets get bigger and bigger. This year's batch of ultracompact cameras is pushing the envelope with more megapixels, more power, more of everything. If you're looking to find the perfect holiday gift for a loved one (or as a treat for yourself), these sleek beauties are sure to incite plenty of excited screaming once the gift wrap is torn away.

HD Digital Cameras

This year, high-definition movie modes are becoming common on digital cameras, and if you're looking for a great, HD-capable digital camera that can slide in your pocket, you may want to consider these appealing models.

Waterproof Cameras

If you're gearing up for some fun in the sun, you might be looking for a camera that can keep up with you at the pool or beach, both in the sand and under the water. These new durable, waterproof cameras make great vacation companions.

New Zoom Cameras

These are the latest and greatest long zoom cameras available from manufacturers like Canon, Nikon, Panasonic, and Olympus. Perfect for serious photographers looking for SLR-like power without the added cost and maintenance of interchangeable lenses, these extended zoom cameras are a happy medium.

Most Popular Digital Cameras

We've dug deep into our collection of owner reviews and ratings to bring you a comprehensive list of the most popular cameras, for point-and-shoot/ultracompact, extended zoom, and digital SLR cameras. These cameras succeeded in pleasing their owners and providing excellent performance when it counted.

2008's Worst Cameras

These cameras are truly abysmal disasters that gave their owners nothing but frustration and headaches. Take a look at the worst cameras of 2008, and hopefully you'll gain some knowledge about what to avoid when you yourself make a purchase in the future.

Micro Four Thirds Explained

Panasonic and Olympus have announced a bold new digital camera technology called Micro Four Thirds. What is it? And what does it mean for the future of digital photography?

New Olympus Digital Cameras

Curious about what Olympus has up their sleeves? So were we:

New Cameras: August 2008

Check out what's coming down the pike this fall. We've got all the latest announcements for new cameras that will be on store shelves in the coming months.

Best Budget Digital Cameras

While many digital cameras attract users with fancy features and cool-sounding new "technology," sometimes the only thing the features augment is the price. However, there are cameras out there with sufficient capability without an exorbitant price. The following cameras are our top picks for the best cameras around $150.

What's New in Digital Cameras: Fall 2008

See what's exciting new features will be found in digital cameras this fall.

Wireless Cameras

For photographers on the go, dealing with memory cards or internal hard-drives can be a nuisance. No one wants to miss a picture-perfect moment because the camera has run out of space! Luckily, camera manufacturers have slowly started to make the leap to wireless technology. Although this new technology is limited by the availability of Wi-Fi signals, it offers another option for users who wish to streamline the uploading process.

Best Extended Zoom Cameras

Somewhere between point-and-shoot territory and DSLRs, Extended Zoom cameras cater to users who want both sophistication and affordability. In addition to their long lenses, Extended Zoom cameras include a variety of features comparable to DSLRs and present a great option for users who have more than just a casual interest in digital cameras. Despite the multitude of features, Extended Zoom cameras are user-friendly, and you won't have to take out a second mortgage to finance your purchase.

Most Popular Point-and-Shoot

Point-and-shoot cameras are perfect for first-time users and casual photographers who want a camera that's both durable and reliable. While point-and-shoots are not as compact as pocket-sized cameras and do not have the fancy features of Digital SLRs, the sturdiness and the high image quality of these cameras will serve users well for any occasion. Ideal for travel, family events, or general snapshots, point-and-shoots are some of the most popular and best-reviewed cameras on the market. Here's a comparison of three of the most popular models:

Digital Cameras for Travel

Whether you're looking for a simple shooter, a rugged companion, or a high-end SLR, we've got something you can take along with you on your next vacation.

Great New Pocket Cameras

See the latest and greatest ultracompact digital cameras from Canon, Fuji, Pentax, Panasonic, and Sony! We'll give you our opinion and show you the best deals on these hot new models.

Why Shop Online? It's Cheaper!

We took a stroll down to our local big-box stores and compared the prices they offer to the prices you can get online. Far and away, online shopping for digital cameras was much cheaper.

What's New in Cameras

In this guide, we take a look at some of the year's biggest innovations in digital cameras. Manufacturer's have made great advances in megapixels, zoom, video, and image stabilization, and you should know what to look for.

Best Point-and-Shoot Cameras

If you're a casual photographer looking for a simple, easy-to-use point-and-shoot camera that will allow you to quickly take high-quality photos of your friends and family, these are the cameras for you.

Best Pocket Cameras

Check out the smallest, most portable ultracompact digital cameras for shoppers interested in convenience and style.

Best Digital SLRs

When photography isn't just something you do when you go on a trip, but the reason for the trip itself, you've become a serious photographer. These Digital SLRs are the best available, and will allow you to take the absolute best photos possible; just remember, they require a lot of attention.

Best Advanced Cameras

For photographers who need a little extra power, but want to avoid the cost and headaches associated with digital SLRs, these Extended Zoom cameras will do the trick. Plenty of advanced features at a fraction of the cost.

Buying Your First Digital Camera

If you're baffled by megapixels, stymied by the difference between optical and digital zoom, and generally unsure how to find the right camera for you or your loved ones, this simple, plain English guide should help make things a little easier. We've put together some straightforward tips on what to think about when browsing the vast and varied options available.

Digital Cameras at Work

The business applications of digital cameras are almost limitless. From teachers to real estate agents, any professional that needs to capture and share images can benefit from a digital camera.

Family Digital Cameras

Digital cameras make taking and sharing family photographs fun and easy. From birthdays to barbecues, having a digital camera handy will ensure that you'll never again miss the memorable moments.

10 Things You Need to Know

By Rich Knapp

Summer Vacation Cameras

Take a look at the best cameras for taking photos of your Summer fun.

Camera Reviews

Olympus E-P1 Review

The Olympus PEN E-P1 hopes to revolutionize high-end digital photography, providing an SLR-quality sensor in a body only a little bigger than a point-and-shoot camera. Our initial take is that the E-P1 is a bold new design sure to make some waves in the coming months. By Michael Patrick Brady

Nikon L100 Review

Fun and easy to use, the Nikon Coolpix L100 and its 15x optical zoom are strictly middle-of-the-road. By Joseph Ben Keough

Canon D10 Review

The fun-looking D10 can go 33 feet underwater. That's nice, but does it take good photographs? By Michael Patrick Brady

Panasonic TS1 Review

The Panasonic TS1 manages to toughen up for use in trying conditions while maintaining good image quality and an attractive body design. By Michael Patrick Brady

Panasonic ZS3 Review

The Panasonic Lumix ZS3 is an impressive digital camera that blends powerful features like a 12x optical zoom and HD video mode, with user-friendly, intelligent performance. By Brenda Paro

Fuji F200 Review

Fuji aims for a casual point-and-shoot camera that also has some versatility, thanks to its EXR mode. Ultimately, the camera seems fit for neither casual nor advanced users. By Michael Patrick Brady

Canon SX1 Review

The Canon SX1 Is impresses with its full 1080p video mode, putting it head and shoulders above similar "bridge" cameras. Consumers, however, should carefully consider whether that's enough to make them pick the SX1 over the similar SX10 IS. By Joseph Ben Keough

Canon SD780 Review

Apart from the HD video mode, the Canon SD780 isn't breaking any new ground. Nevertheless, it's a strong performer, doing what a camera should: take excellent pictures, easily. By Brenda Paro

Canon SX200 Review

Despite a few minute design concerns, the 12.1-megapixel Canon SX200 performed quite well, yielding high-quality still photos and extraordinary high-definition video. Its 12x optical zoom lens is just the icing on the cake. By Michael Patrick Brady

Panasonic FX580 Review

Though it's got plenty of flashy, appealing features (like a touchscreen LCD) and good HD video, the FX580 forgets that its primary purpose is to take good still photos. By Joseph Ben Keough

Nikon P90 Review

The Nikon Coolpix P90 comes on strong with a 24x optical zoom lens, but can't cut it when it comes to consistent performance. By Michael Patrick Brady

Sony W290 Review

The Sony Cybershot W290 is designed for novice users who aren't afraid to sit back, relax and let the camera do all the work. By Michael Patrick Brady

Pentax K20D Review

The Pentax K20D earns this reviewer's highest recommendation, presenting a strong and affordable alternative to SLR titans like Canon and Nikon. By Joseph Ben Keough

Don't Buy the Kodak C813

The Kodak EasyShare C813 has disappointed enough people. We're letting you know: don't buy this truly terrible camera.
By Michael Patrick Brady, Editor

Panasonic ZS3 Review

An early look at an interesting digital camera set to introduce a new improvement to HD video recording. By Michael Patrick Brady

Panasonic G1 Review

The Panasonic G1 represents a new frontier in digital photography, bringing high-end power to smaller, lighter bodies. By Joseph Ben Keough

Canon SD990 IS Review

Canon's latest ultracompact Elph digital camera, the SD990 IS, is an impressive creation that provides quick, speedy performance and satisfying image quality to users of all skill levels. By Brenda Paro

Panasonic FX150 Review

Our reviewer delves deeply into the 14.7 megapixel monster and tells you whether or not all those extra pixels actually do anything. By Joseph Ben Keough

Nikon S710 and Samsung SL310W

These two high-megapixel ultracompacts have a lot of similarities, but one tremendous difference that might help you make a final decision. By Michael Patrick Brady

Olympus SP-565 UZ Review

Olympus has taken their wonderful extended zoom cameras and shrunken them down for improved portability. See what we thought of this incredible, shrinking camera with the 20x optical zoom. By Michael Patrick Brady

Olympus 1040 Review

The Olympus 1040 doesn't just look cool, it actually works really well, too. See what our reviewer thought of this stylish pocket camera. By Brenda Paro.

Canon SX10 IS Review

Canon finally gets its act together and releases a camera with 20x optical zoom. How does it stack up against the competition? And what kind of photographer should own such a thing? By Michael Patrick Brady, Editor

Canon A2000 Review

Our reviewer is absolutely smitten with the Canon A2000. Read why she thinks it's the "best camera available for the price point" and can satisfy users of all types and skill levels. By Brenda Paro

Canon E1 Review

The Canon Powershot E1 succeeds in pairing excellent image quality with stylish aesthetics, but has a few puzzling moments of clunkiness that make it a mixed bag overall. By Brenda Paro

Olympus E-520 Review

The Olympus E-520 is a capable and satisfying camera for novices and professionals alike.
By Joseph Ben Keough

Panasonic FZ28 Review

An interesting extended zoom offering from Panasonic. See what we thought of it in our hands on review.
By Michael Patrick Brady

Kodak V1273 Review

The Kodak V1273 might be a good camera if it didn't have so many problems. Find out what they are.
By Joseph Ben Keough

Nikon P5100 Review

The Nikon P5100 is a sleek, well-designed camera, but despite its pleasant first impressions, it ultimately disappoints.
By Brenda Paro

Nikon S52c Review

Nikon's new S53c digital camera has Wi-Fi capabilities for sharing and transferring photos. Read our review to see if it really works.
By Michael Patrick Brady, Editor

Canon SD790 IS Review

Lots of Control in a Small Package

By Brenda Paro

The Canon SD790 IS is small, but that doesn't mean it's not powerful. This camera has all the control you'll need in a comfortable, portable package.

Panasonic TZ50 Review

An Able Wireless Performer

Review by Joseph Ben Keough

The Panasonic TZ50 takes another stab at wireless transmission of photos over the Internet, directly from the camera. See how it fares when we test its impressive claims.

Kodak M1033 Review

Not So Fast, or So Good Either

Review by Brenda Paro

The M1033 can't break Kodak out of the funk they're trapped in. It's yet another disappointing offering from the once venerable manufacturer.

Nikon L18 Review

Simple, Basic, Affordable

By Andrew Skinner

If you're in the market for an inexpensive camera but don't want to get stuck with a piece of junk, the Nikon L18 might be a satisfying solution.

Nikon P80 Review

A Fine Camera, But Too Little Too Late?

Review By Michael Patrick Brady

The Nikon P80 would've been a superstar had it been released a year or two ago. Now, it seems like something of an also-ran, despite having an excellent long-range zoom and vivid, high quality photos.

Canon 450D Review

The New Digital Rebel: Exceptional, Impressive

Review By Michael Patrick Brady, Editor

The Canon 450D was a hotly anticipated new digital SLR, and we're pleased to find that it continues the long Digital Rebel tradition of superlative cameras that blend high-end performance with entry-level ease and comfort.

Olympus 1030SW Review

A Rugged Little Traveler

Review By Andrew Skinner

The Olympus 1030SW makes a lot of grand claims about its durability and ruggedness. Does it live up to the hype? Check out our hands-on review to see whether it survives.

Canon A470 Review

Gets The Job Done... Mostly

Review By Joseph B. Keough

The Canon Powershot A470 is an affordable, diminutive shooter that will get the job done, but if you're looking for real power, you're in the wrong neighborhood. Check out our hands-on review and see if this camera fits your needs.

Kodak Z1085 IS Review

A Glimmer of Hope for a Struggling Brand

Review By James DeRuvo

The Z1085 IS gives consumers a reason to take a second look at the brand after a string of disappointing and poorly received cameras threatened to spoil Kodak's long-standing reputation for user-friendly products.

Olympus SP-570 UZ Review

Super Zoom Yields Superior Results

Review By Michael Patrick Brady, Editor

An impressive display of power and reach by the SP-570 UZ and its unparalleled 20x optical zoom may just put it at the top of the heap for advanced, extended zoom cameras. Plus, it's actually really easy to use.

Canon A580 Review

Affordable and Approachable

Review By Michael Patrick Brady, Editor

The Canon PowerShot A580 is a compact point-and-shoot camera aimed at entry-level and budget-minded consumers. Don't let the price fool you into thinking this camera isn't excellent; the A580 holds its own and is incredibly easy to operate.

Canon SD1100 IS Review

A Little Style, A Lot of Functionality

Review By Andrew Skinner

The Canon Powershot SD1100 IS is the latest in the manufacturer's well-regarded line of stylish ultracompacts. Take a look at our hands on review and see what this little shooter can do.

Canon SD870 IS Review

See what we thought of Canon's all-new stylish ultracompact, the Canon Powershot SD870 IS. We've given it a once over so you can see how it performs.

Canon A720 IS Review

We were lucky enough to get our hands on a Canon Powershot A720 IS. Check out our up-close review of this user-friendly point-and-shoot digital camera.

Worst Digital Cameras Ever

An unbiased look at the worst digital cameras ever made, where they went wrong, and how consumers can avoid such products in the future.

Kodak V705/V610 Review

Despite innovative ideas, the V705 and V610 are doomed by poor joystick control and lack of image stabilization, respectively. Read on to see how we reached our conclusion in our hands-on review.

About Digital Camera HQ

Online vs. Bricks and Mortar

Take a look at the major differences between buying online and buying in a "bricks and mortar" store, and why the latter may not be as good as you think.