Best Compact Cameras

The latest compact digital cameras include models with resolutions as high as 12 megapixels, and some come in fun fruity colors. A few cost as little as $200.

By Alan Stafford

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6. Olympus FE 280

Full Review | Latest Prices Summary: The lightest compact camera on the chart and one of the least expensive, the FE-280's images scored about average in our tests.

2. Casio Exilim EX-Z1080

Full Review | Latest Prices Summary: Small size, quick operation, and long battery life make this a great compact camera. Comes in pink, blue, black, and silver.

3. Canon PowerShot SD850 IS

Full Review | Latest Prices Summary: The SD850 IS performs similarly to the newer SD870 IS compact camera but has a smaller LCD, a lens that isn't as wide--and a better price.

4. Pentax Optio M40

Full Review | Latest Prices Summary: Not the jazziest-looking compact camera, the M40 earned its chart spot with a sturdy body and a low price. Flash shots looked drab.

5. Canon PowerShot SD950 IS

Full Review | Latest Prices Summary: It's very expensive for a compact camera--and too large for many pockets--but it's quite well made and performs admirably.

6. Olympus FE 280

Full Review | Latest Prices Summary: The lightest compact camera on the chart and one of the least expensive, the FE-280's images scored about average in our tests.

7. Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX100

Full Review | Latest Prices Summary: A close cousin to Panasonic's FX-55, the FX100 compact camera has higher resolution and a higher price, but a slightly smaller LCD.

8. Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX55

Full Review | Latest Prices Summary: The FX55 has a superb 3-inch LCD, but the compact camera's screen saps battery life, and images weren't as sharp as those of the FX100.

9. Casio Exilim EX-S880

Full Review | Latest Prices Summary: The EX-S880 costs less than the EX-Z1080, but has less resolution. This compact camera makes uploading video to YouTube nearly automatic.

10. Kodak EasyShare V1253

Full Review | Latest Prices Summary: You can shoot HD video on the V1253 compact camera and, with an optional HDTV docking station, display it on your television.