Most Popular Point-and-Shoot Cameras

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:

Canon A590 IS Grade: HQ Grade: A A is outstanding and exceptional, rated in the top 10% of digital cameras. B means they are good, with some standout features. C means they are mediocre, and probably more trouble than they are worth. D & F mean they are absolutely awful or old. Avoid at all costs. from $138.50	The Canon Powershot A590 IS is the latest in a long line of highly successful and trustworthy Canon point-and-shoot cameras. Equipped with images stabilization to compensate for the shakiest of hands, the Canon takes the perfect picture every time. User Claude S. declares, "this little gem has most of the features of my EOS DSLR and then some newer ones." Indeed, with 8 megapixels, a 4x optical zoom, and weighing in at just 6.24 oz., the camera has a powerful range without bulkiness. The Powershot A590 IS is a wise investment for those looking for an affordable, approachable, and practical camera. Quick Specs: 4x Optical Zoom, 8 Megapixels, AA Batteries
Nikon P5100 Grade: HQ Grade: A- A is outstanding and exceptional, rated in the top 10% of digital cameras. B means they are good, with some standout features. C means they are mediocre, and probably more trouble than they are worth. D & F mean they are absolutely awful or old. Avoid at all costs. from $269.90	The Nikon Coolpix P5100 shares many of the same features as the Powershot A590 IS with one major difference: megapixels. Nikon emphasizes the benefits of the 12.1 megapixel CoolPix P5100, but unless you plan to print oversized images, the extra megapixels are superfluous. In fact, the added megapixels will not noticeably enhance the detail of your standard 4x6 shots (rather, megapixels allow for the enlargement of images without blurriness). With an array of special features, including an ISO range of 64-2000 for better low-light shooting, the CoolPix P5100 provides additional options for more advanced users while remaining accessible to inexperienced users. The high price reflects the added features, but the CoolPix P5100 is a fine choice for those who want more than just the basics. Quick Specs: 3.5x Optical Zoom, 12.1 Megapixels, Lithium-ion Battery
A Longtime Favorite, Exceptionally Affordable! Fuji S700 Grade: HQ Grade: A A is outstanding and exceptional, rated in the top 10% of digital cameras. B means they are good, with some standout features. C means they are mediocre, and probably more trouble than they are worth. D & F mean they are absolutely awful or old. Avoid at all costs. from $129.99	While the Powershot A590 IS and the CoolPix P5100 have similar basic functions, the Fuji FinePix S700 packs more of a punch. Sporting a 10x optical zoom, the FinePix S700 captures details from great distances. Because of this extra zoom power, the camera is bulkier than the Canon or the Nikon, but in both close-range and distance-photography, the FinePix S700 takes spectacular pictures. Many of our users gush over the performance and price of this camera. As user Jacob R. explains, "I have yet to get a blurry picture." As attractive as the camera's power is its price; the FinePix S700 is a great buy. Quick Specs: 10x Optical Zoom, 7.1 Megapixels, AA Batteries