Digital Camera Reviews & Ratings De-Mystify Choices
Shopping for a new digital camera can be quite frustrating with the hundreds
of choices available. Digital camera reviews clarify this confusion by comparing
camera features and options, then rating how each camera compares with similar
models.
An effective comparison of best digital cameras requires two things: 1) the
camera's specs and features, and 2) performance ratings. Spec sheets and ratings
are plentiful, but to efficiently compare digital cameras it's important to set
some guidelines.
Decide on how the camera will be used, the quality and size of final prints,
and necessary features. Write these down and rank camera reviews and ratings
against these standards. Whether looking for a professional or snapshot camera,
scan the reviews and narrow your choices down to a few cameras before making
final comparisons.
OK, Lets Cut to the Chase...
Re-visit the reviews for this short list and evaluate the digital camera
ratings in more depth for the following criteria:
Design, Construction and Controls
Minor design differences can become significant in daily camera use.
Carefully compare how each camera's review is rated for design elements. Size
and weight, body configuration, plus location of buttons, knobs and other
controls can make a camera a joy to use or a real pain in the neck.
Evaluate how well the camera is put together. Are access doors for battery,
memory, etc. solid and stable? What does the reviewer say about the shutter
release, zoom and other buttons and knobs? How many photos will a fully charged
battery take? Is the LCD bright and clear in both low light and sunny
conditions?
The reviewer's evaluation of the camera's controls is critical. Can manual
adjustments be made for different lighting conditions? How about auto-focus
zones and exposure modes? Are controls simple and intuitive, or complicated
menus?
Sensors, Pixels and Processors
These are the heart of a digital camera and determine photo quality, so
closely compare how the reviewer rates them.
Generally larger sensors have more powerful and efficient photodiodes, and
will produce higher quality photo images. Both CCD and CMOS sensor technology is
advancing rapidly, but with each new development there are usually draw-backs,
so compare carefully.
Digital camera marketing would have us believe it's all about more
megapixels. But it's more complicated than that. Evaluate how each camera's
review rates pixel quality, not just quantity. Some cameras will actually take
better pictures with fewer pixels.
What the camera's processor does with the data collected from the sensor's
diodes is equally important. It must properly interpret color balance and
interpolate pixels for sharp natural looking pictures. It must be able to do it
quickly or you'll have to wait too long between shots.
Lens Optics
In many ways lenses for digital cameras are simpler and less expensive than
for conventional 35mm cameras. Even so, sensors and processors can't produce a
better photo than what's visible through the lens. Compare the ratings
because cheap lenses can distort images and colors.
In conclusion, decide on camera basics and budget range, scan enough
reviews to pick a handful of finalists, then scrutinize the reviews and ratings
on those cameras to find the perfect choice.
A list of top rated digital cameras can be found at our
Digital
Cameras Ratings page.
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