Point-and-Shoot Cameras With the Best Image Quality
In PCWorld Labs subjective tests for overall image quality, these fixed-lens cameras had the highest aggregate scores across all our imaging categories.
Rated: Aug 6, 2012 6:00 PM
The Canon PowerShot G1 X takes the sharpest photos we've ever seen from a fixed-lens camera, and its image quality and video quality are outstanding overall. However, for $800, we expected better macro and burst-mode performance.
Rated: Jun 4, 2012 11:05 AM
The 20X-optical-zoom PowerShot SX260 HS does many things well. It's as close as a compact camera can get to being "one size fits all," thanks to very good image quality and a great mix of options for novices and experienced photographers.
Rated: Dec 23, 2011 11:20 AM
The Canon PowerShot S100 is just about the most capable compact camera we've seen, and it's packed with features that will please both novices and advanced shooters.
Rated: Dec 23, 2011 1:27 PM
Nikon’s Coolpix P7100 is as complex as it is powerful, with excellent image quality and a feature set to please even the fussiest photographer. Just make sure you’re up for the challenge.
Rated: Aug 16, 2012 6:58 PM
The feature-loaded, 21X-zoom Samsung WB850F is the best Wi-Fi camera we've reviewed, but a few usability hangups keep it from a higher ranking.
Rated: May 13, 2011 2:15 PM
The Nikon Coolpix S9100 is the rare beast that will please both novices and experienced shooters, even with its lack of manual controls. Thanks to its great image quality and creative controls, practically anyone will find this camera a pleasure to...
Rated: Aug 20, 2012 3:45 PM
With an F1.8 lens, manual exposure controls, and a much lower price than other premium point-and-shoots, the pocketable Coolpix P310 offers excellent bang for the buck.
Rated: Jul 14, 2011 6:00 PM
With an array of wireless sharing and remote-control options, the Samsung SH100 has a generous feature set for a $200 camera. But it's mainly for young, casual shooters, due to its toylike build and lack of manual controls.
Rated: Sep 7, 2011 2:02 PM
The 30X-optical-zoom HX100V may not have the zoom range or fine-tuning options of some competing cameras, but it compensates with futuristic extras, good video quality, and solid images.
Rated: Jan 20, 2011 4:15 PM
The G12 delivers excellent image and video quality, and it backs up its manual controls with fun scene modes, an optical viewfinder, and a tilt-and-swivel LCD screen.
Rated: May 2, 2011 5:00 PM
Building on an already-excellent camera, the 14X-optical-zoom PowerShot SX230 HS adds a new sensor, 1080p video capture, high-speed shooting, and in-camera GPS to the mix.
Canon PowerShot A3300 IS Digital Camera
With good image quality, optical stabilization, and creative filters, the PowerShot A3300 IS offers quite a bit more than your average sub-$200 camera.
Rated: Feb 17, 2011 5:35 PM
The vacation-friendly EX-H20G has a 10X-optical-zoom lens, great GPS features, and in-camera mapping. It's a top performer in daylight, but it lacks manual controls and a few key features.
Rated: May 26, 2011 1:05 PM
We love the touchscreen-controlled Elph 500 HS's image quality, ultrawide-angle-lens, and range of shooting modes. We're less fond of its battery life and its user interface for manual controls.
Rated: Sep 6, 2011 4:02 PM
The Exilim ZR100 offers super-high-speed shooting and phenomenal battery life, two factors that set it apart from other pocket megazooms in its class.
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Best $200 Camera: Canon PowerShot SX230 HS