Small Digital Camera World header.gif Header

It's a

Small Digital Camera

World

What is the best small digital camera?

This is the most frequently asked question. Some will tell you there is no best, after all it is a matter of personal opinion. However by evaluating feature lists and user feedback I have come up with the list of the top picks.

Updated April 06: Some of the recommended small cameras include:

  • Canon SD450 5MP 3x Zoom (Best Overall)
    (Compare Prices)
    (5.5 oz - 3.4 x 2.1 x 0.9 in)
    This is one of the top rated ultra compact digital cameras of all time; pocket sized, excellent image quality and fast shooting. The 450 is the best in the SD camera line. The more expensive SD cameras are higher mega-pixel but suffer in others ways. The extra mega-pixels offer very little over the 5MPs of the SD450, cost more and do not work as well. You can't go wrong with the SD450.
     
  • Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX01 6MP 3.6x Zoom (Best Lens)
    (Compare Prices)
    (5.5 oz - 3.7 x 2 x 0.9 in)
    The FX01 is one of the best very small digital camera around with only one drawback. First of all the ZX01 has an amazing Leica 3.6x Zoom lens with (IS) image stabilization. At minimum zoom you get a nice wide angle shot that helps you get the whole scene into your picture. IS helps reduce blur caused by camera movement. These features are very rare and very nice to have in a small digital camera. The ZX01 is also a fast camera than can produce good quality videos. The battery life is also very good. The only draw back this camera has is poor low light performance. So unless you do a lot of indoor shooting this camera should be on your short list.
     
  • Casio Exilim EX-Z750 7MP 3x Zoom (Best Features)
    (Compare Prices)
    (5.8 oz - 3.5 x 2.3 x 0.9 in)
    The Z750 has the biggest and best feature set of the line up. This all metal camera give the user a lot of control with an excellent interface. It is fast operating, has a advanced movie mode and good battery life. The Z750 is the only 7MP camera to make this list. Its main draw back is the under powered flash.
     
  • Fujifilm FinePix F30 6MP 3x Zoom (Best Sensor)
    (Compare Prices)
    (6.5 oz - 3.7 x 2.2 x 1.1 in)
    The biggest camera in this list of recommended cameras. The brand new Fuji F30 looks to be a great camera that builds on the reputation of the F10/11. If you are ok with the extra weight and size (it is still small!) this camera has some GREAT features. Fast operation, long battery life, great image quality and the best low light performance of the group.