Best compact digital cameras

Rode VideoMic Pro

July 5th, 2011 - For those looking to move beyond the internal microphone on a digital SLR or camcorder, the VideoMic Pro can achieve excellent audio in a compact, lightweight and relatively inexpensive package.

Canon PowerShot S100

November 11th, 2011 - Canon has given its top-end pocket camera a nip and tuck to make it shine even brighter than before. The S100 is a proficient do-it-all camera with a range of features like GPS to keep photographers happy. 2

• Where to buy? $403 to $500 at 30 stores

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ150

October 7th, 2011 - Panasonic's FZ150 is king of the superzooms, sporting a long lens matched up with excellent image and video quality. 5

• Where to buy? $477 to $598 at 7 stores

Canon PowerShot G1X

March 15th, 2012 - Offering a wide selection of features in a sturdy chassis, the PowerShot G1X delivers excellent photographic results thanks to its extra-large image sensor and processor. Users will need to be wary of its average performance, but otherwise will enjoy shooting with this camera.

• Where to buy? $676 to $760 at 30 stores

Nikon Coolpix AW100

November 14th, 2011 - Even though the AW100 is Nikon's first attempt at a rugged compact camera, it doesn't show. The AW100 is easy to use, and has a range of features well suited to action adventurers and everyday photographers. 5

• Where to buy? $288 to $407 at 30 stores

Sony Alpha NEX-C3

July 26th, 2011 - Sony has created a great little interchangeable lens camera in the NEX-C3, although it's not exactly what we'd call compact with the kit lens attached. 2

• Where to buy? $369 to $610 at 5 stores

Nikon Coolpix P7100

December 5th, 2011 - While it's too large to fit inside a pocket, the P7100 provides all of the functionality and quality that you could need. It's a shame that its performance is not class beating, otherwise it would easily make a great companion to an SLR or ILC. 1

• Where to buy? $416 to $560 at 9 stores

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX20V

April 24th, 2012 - Offering a wide range of features from a 20x optical zoom lens to excellent low-light modes, the HX20V is a great buy for the cashed-up traveller. 1

• Where to buy? $562 at 2 stores

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ25

April 11th, 2012 - Looking for a well-priced travel camera with a long optical zoom lens? The TZ25 ticks most boxes, and matches its snappy performance with very good image quality.

• Where to buy? $319 at 1 store

Canon PowerShot SX260 HS

April 3rd, 2012 - The Canon PowerShot SX260 HS's wider, longer lens, a few much-needed design tweaks and excellent photo quality add up to one pretty great compact superzoom.

• Where to buy? $327 to $473 at 29 stores