Cheap Digital Camera
Buying a cheap digital camera is easier than ever before. With the price of electronics dropping, you can find a decent camera for less than $200. Most of the well-known camera companies sell a wide range of cameras, so you are sure to find the features you want in a low-priced digital camera.
Cheap Digital Camera Features
When searching for a cheap digital camera, consider what features are most important to you. Ask yourself the following questions before starting your search:
- Do you want a lot of memory?
- What kind of picture quality do you like?
- Is it important if the camera comes with editing software?
- Is the camera easy to use?
- What kind of warranty comes with the camera?
- Are there any extra features, like zoom or short video recording ability, that you would like your camera to have?
Because you are hunting for a cheap digital camera, you most likely will not be able to get a model of more than five megapixels. This is important because the higher the megapixel, the greater the image quality. Most less expensive cameras have at least three and sometimes upwards of six. Quality and resolution for cameras with four-to-six megapixels is something to look for in your low-cost camera.
If you are in the market for a new computer, consider getting a camera package as an add-on. Most major computer companies have digital cameras, photo printers, and software packages either pre-packaged with a computer, or available for a reasonable price to be added onto your computer order. This is a good way to save money if you need to purchase both items.
Cameras to Consider
Don't get distracted by the fluff featured on some higher-end digital cameras. Several brand name camera manufacturers offer stellar digital options for a couple hundred dollars or less. Despite the low price, you will not get shortchanged when it comes to quality or reliability.
As of April 2011, the following cheap digital cameras were being sold for $200 or less:
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W350
Retailing for just $150 the fully automated 14-megapixel Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W350 comes with a litany of fabulous features including:
- Wide-angle f2.7 lens
- 4x zoom
- Optical image stabilization
- 2.7-inch LCD
- HD movie mode
The compact camera is not only functional, it’s also very stylish. The W350 comes in an array of trendy colors, including silver, black, blue, and pink. In addition, the camera’s lightweight body makes it a breeze to tote in your pants or shirt pocket. The downside to this particular model is that it has a rather limited internal memory. However, it does come equipped with a small piece of software that allows you to upload photos and movies at lightening fast speeds when the camera is connected to a PC or a Mac computer.
Nikon Coolpix S6000
Don’t let the meager $160 price tag fool you. The 14-megapixel Nikon Coolpix S6000 is far from subpar. In addition to featuring a 7x zoom the compact point-and-shoot includes:
- 2.7-inch LCD
- Blink detection
- Smile-activated shutter release
- Red-eye fix
- Skin softening
- Face priority
- Movie mode
The S6000’s all-metal body makes it incredibly durable; plus it comes in a variety of colors. The camera’s controls and menu system are user-friendly, though the controls may be a bit small for users with large hands. Overall, the camera offers quite a bit of bang for your buck.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH20
Priced at $180, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH20 is all about value. The compact camera features:
- 14-megapixel
- 8x zoom
- HD movie mode
- 2.7-inch LCD
- Excellent battery life
The FH20 also features outstanding shooting performance for a cheap digital camera. What’s more, it comes in five different colors and can easily fit into the back pocket of your jeans or a small handbag. While its features are basic, the camera doesn’t skimp on quality. It comes equipped with Panasonic's "Intelligent Auto" mode (iA), which determines the optimal shooting mode and helps correct blurring, focus, and color issues.
Kodak EasyShare Z915
The Kodak EasyShare Z915 retails for $200 and is worth every penny. Few compact point-and-shoot cameras offer as much as the Z915. Among its outstanding features are:
- 10-megapixel
- 2. 5-inch LCD
- Optical and digital image stabilization
- 10x optical zoom
- Movie mode
The pocket camera is easy to use and features faster performance than most comparable models. Moreover, despite being a budget camera the Z915 comes equipped with Kodak's signature "Share" button which allows you to tag photos as favorites and upload to your favorite photo sharing website to show off to your network of family and friends.
Where to Buy
Use the Internet to help you find a cheap digital camera. Some websites will look for the lowest price on a specific camera, while others sell a variety at a discounted price. Others will compare different camera features and specifications.
Check these websites out when searching for your new camera:
If you prefer to test out an inexpensive digital camera before purchasing it, then consider shopping at a local camera shop. Employees there will be more than happy to assist you in your search. What's more, most camera stores allow you to test out demo models, so you can get a feel for a camera before buying.
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