A Comparison of Best Digital Cameras Nets Better Value
Performing a careful comparison of best digital cameras assures you'll find
the best camera features, quality and value. Take a little time to compare reviews
and ratings to eliminate future dissatisfaction and save money while you're at it.
With styles, features, and prices
all over the map, digital camera comparisons can be mind-boggling. Pixels, memory, optical and digital zoom,
camera size and cost are all factors
to compare. So how do we sift through all the hype and find the best digital
camera?
Get Organized Before Comparing Cameras
First identify your prerequisites. A camera is
normally a long term investment. To find the best
camera for your needs, make these basic decisions before you start
comparing features.
- Suitability – simple snapshots, advanced features or professional
photography.
- Quality – compare
quality of both the camera and the photos it takes.
- Size – models to compare
include ultra-compact, compact and full-sized cameras.
- Price – compare cameras
in a price range set by your needs and budget.
The next step is to compare specific features…
Compare Pixel
Quantity and Quality
In general, more is better. Each pixel is a tiny square of
light and color. Digital photos can be compared to mosaics – more pixels
mean smaller squares and sharper pictures. But comparing pixel quality is just as
important.
Tiny photodiodes in the image sensor create pixels. The sensor functions as the camera’s eye and some camera sensors
are small and weak. Cameras with larger sensors usually have better, more
powerful diodes and produce sharper,
clearer pictures.Don't Skimp on Memory
A single digital photograph can require several megabytes, though
file type, compression rate and subject matter all affect file size. Few
digital cameras have sufficient built-in memory, so when comparing cameras
include additional memory in your budget. A general rule is to have at least 256-512MB of
portable memory – more if taking high resolution or lots of photographs.
Check memory compatibility when you compare digital cameras. Compact flash
(CF) cards are small and inexpensive. MultiMedia (MMC) and Secure Digital (SD)
cards are even smaller for ultra-compact cameras. Others such as xD Picture
cards, Memory Sticks,
SmartMedia and MicroDrives have limited applications, but may be best depending
on the camera.
CCD Compared to CMOS
Charged Coupled Devices (CCD) and Complementary Metal-Oxide Semiconductors
(CMOS) are digital camera image sensors. They can be compared to the shutter and
film in a traditional camera.
Developed in the mid 1970’s, the CCD is the heart of most digital cameras.
With millions of light collecting cells, its image perception can be compared to
the human eye. The CCD sensor’s quality makes it the preferred choice for
high-end digital cameras, although more pro models are taking advantage of CMOS
sensor improvements.
CMOS sensors were developed in 1998 with technology comparable to processor chips. Advantages are lower cost, less power required and multi-tasking
ability. Disadvantages include signal noise and resolution issues. As the technology improves, CMOS sensors will
make digital cameras more affordable and be the
best choice for entry level cameras.
Beware the Zoom-Zoom
In your comparison of best digital cameras, be aware of the zoom issue.
Digital zoom isn’t much more than a marketing gimmick. It crops the image on
the sensor, reducing total pixels and degrading resolution. Optical zoom magnifies the image before
the sensor reads it, retaining full
resolution.
Other important features…
- Shutter lag – how quickly can you take another picture? Should be a
second or less.
- Start up time – turn on to ready to shoot should be nearly
immediate.
- Manual override – allows you to adjust exposure and focus
settings.
- Auto-focus – should be nearly instantaneous in most lighting conditions.
Digital camera ratings often discuss other features, but getting these right will enhance the enjoyment of your digital camera experience for years to
come. Find more detailed comparisons at our
Digital Camera Technology page.
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