This model sits between digital compacts and traditional SLR cameras. While most others in this crossover area fail to produce high-quality images, this is an exception. Sharp images and easy to navigate.

Verdict: An all-in-one that’s worth the money.
Price: £399

9/10

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Panasonic’s Lumix digital compacts are some of the best available. The top-of-the-range 10 million-pixel LX3 is packed with features. It’s wide and bright 24-60mm lens means it performs well in most conditions, though very low light can prove challenging.

Verdict: Costly, but a high-class camera.
Price: £360

9/10

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Waterproof to 10m and crushproof to 100kg, this model is ideal for beach and skiing holidays. With 10 million pixels and a quality zoom, it’s simple to use and gives sharp results.

Verdict: Very tough.
Price:£249

8/10

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This is a beautifully moulded piece of stanless steel that’s as pleasing to look at as the pictures it produces. There are plenty of features but it doesn’t take long to find what you need. Smaller than average screen.

Verdict: Dear but worth it.
Price: £229

8/10

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The S210 is ultra-slim and features 8 million pixels. A full metal body and five colour options give the right image, and the face-detection system focuses on the important areas.

Verdict: Go-anywhere camera.
Price: £109

8/10

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A beautifully slick 10 million-pixel camera that oozes a style and class which is only enhanced by its brown leather case. Image quality is excellent and there is a wide range of controls.

Verdict: Style with a hefty enough dose of substance.
Price: £390

7/10

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A straightforward and unsophisticated model, designed for those who don’t want to learn about photography. The body is reasonably well put together and the camera feels solid and enduring.

Verdict: Good value and reliable.
Price: £140

7/10

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The multi-coloured Finepix Z20fd range of 18.8mm-thin compacts is aimed squarely at the younger photographer.  A very neat design with sliding lens cover and decent 6.5cm rear screen make a good first impression.  Decent images.

Verdict: Well targeted, cool gadget.
Price: £129.99

7/10

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