The best compact digital cameras 2011: Top five compact digital camera reviews

Best compact cameras 2011

1. Panasonic DMC-FZ45

£290

Superzoom cameras may be often be specs over end quality in many situations, but the FZ45 is something of an exception to the rule. The 24x optical zoom might be relatively sedate by current standards, but the image quality is excellent and HD video quality superb as well. Add to that an Electronic Viewfinder, or EVF, as well as full manual controls and the FZ45 is a feature-packed compact camera for beginners and aspiring amateur photographers alike.

Review Score: 90%

2. Casio Exilim EX-ZR10

£250

Combining a large optical zoom, in this case a 7x optical option, with a compact body and sensor doesn't always bring the kind of results that will satisfy a discenring photographer. The Casio ZR10 manages to buck that trend by packing in plenty of features, such as a high speed still shooting and video mode, and turn out some striking images as well. In fact the only element to dislike is the HDR Art mode, which isn't a necessity by any means, making this a top long zoom compact.  

Review Score: 90%

3. Canon IXUS 220 HS

£199

Thanks to the HS sensor both rapid shooting and taking low-light images are relatively simple and offer impressive quality from the Canon IXUS 220 HS. Colour are bright and punchy, and the end image quality easily above average for a compact camera. Both the build and aesthetics aren't bad too, making this a highly recommended, feature-packed compact. 

Review Score: 90%

4. Panasonic DMC-TZ20

£349

Following on from the superb TZ10 is no mean feat, as it managed to successfully combine a huge optical zoom, 12MP sensor and full manual controls in a compact body. The TZ20 manages to not only do more of the same, but improve on video quality and shoehorn in a few more features such as a 3D shooting mode. An impressive feat, and an impressive camera. 

Review Score: 89%

5. Canon IXUS 115 HS

£150

On the surface it may look like any standard, stylish compact, but there's far more to the IXUS 115 HS than meets the eye. The HS sensor has the ability to shoot in low light, and at a rapid burst rate, and alongside the conservative 4x optical zoom and 12MP backlit CMOS sensor the IXUS 115 HS is something of a pocket marvel, and one of our favourite compact cameras. 

Review Score: 90%

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