Digital camera advice under $200

[macman2790]

i'm in the market to buy just a cheap 5-7mp digital camera. What do you recommend? Is the sony-cybershot a reliable camera, preferably the dsc-s500 model because its within my price range. I tried it out and i liked the ease of use, but i would like some recommendations on which brand and which camera would be the way to go.

Thanks in advance.

 

[Abstract]

Cheap digicam? I don't think it really matters as long as you get a decent brand. Sonys are quite good, although I don't like the camera body as much as with other brands. Same with cheap Canons.

 

[G4scott]

I don't know if I would go the Sony route, seeing as they've had problems with recent models.

Canon and Nikon seem to be the leader of the pack, but Olympus, Samsung and Panasonic also have some cool P&S cameras out.

My advice: Go to an actual camera store, and not a big-box retailer, where they want to sell you the most expensive thing. Most good camera specialty stores will be happy to help you find the best camera for your needs, and they usually have better displays allowing you to actually use the camera before buying it.

 

[miloblithe]

And in the $150-200, I think the cameras are going to be fairly similar. I'd definitely go to a store and play with the cameras, and see which ones feel the best.

And read the sticky on this page about links to camera reviews. Read lots of reviews. While you don't have to take their advice, just reading the reviews will give you a lot of information about things to look for and aspects to consider.

 

[shadowmoses]

I would check out the new Samsung's they look pretty good and have been getting good reviews....

Edit: LINK..... $199 on Amazon

ShadOW

 

[phungy]

I have the Fujifilm Finepix Z2, Newegg has the Z3 for $175 and its awesome for an ultra-compact digital camera. Starts up lightning fast, takes 2 pictures at the same time (with/without flash) and its as small (if not smaller) than a deck of cards.

 

[dukebound85]

definitly the fuji f20. i was just in that boat and after reading all reviews, this is clearly the best for the money at that range. I spent like 2 weeks researching cameras and yea I'm very happy with it. camera cost me 198 at sams

 

[cube]

You can get the F20 for about $160. But I would prefer the F30 for $210.