| Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ5 |
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 We liked Panasonic's TZ3 when we reviewed it last year, so we were pleased to see that Panasonic didn't change much when updating the line with the TZ4 and TZ5. Still packing the same 28mm wide-angle, 10x zoom Leica lens, Pansonic beefed up the TZ5's sensor while leaving well enough alone. The form factor seems identical, but the display jumps from 2.5-inches to a massive 3-inch LCD with an astounding 460,000 dots of resolution. While not exactly able to playback video in 720p resolution (which it records in), it is certainly the sharpest LCD we've seen. The aforementioned HD video recording is impressive, especially since the camera allows zooming during recording; even more impressive is how smooth the zoom works, as we were able to zoom in and out with minimal choppiness. We also liked how the continuous auto focus maintained focus without depressing the shutter, saving valuable time when trying to take the perfect shot. Probably the most interesting feature of the TZ5 was the extra optical zoom, which provided additional optical magnification, extending zoom up to 16.9x (at a reduced resolution of 3-megapixels) using the center part of the CCD sensor. Release: March 2008. Price: $350.
Pros: Excellent wide-angle Leica lens, 720p video, beautiful LCD screen
Cons: Extremely heavy for its size
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| FujiFilm FinePix S100FS |
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 The DSLR-alternative market remains small, but we'd like to see it grow, preferably with plenty of cameras like the Fujifilm Finepix S100fd. The camera might prove too involved for point-and-shooters, but for those looking for high-quality photos, full manual control, RAW and a DSLR-like feel without the associated expense and bulk, the S100fs is a great choice. We had minor issues with fringing, but otherwise the camera gave us one excellent exposure after another, and even better, we could process them to our heart's content in RAW without worrying about clipped contrast or excessive noising. If you're serious about photography, especially nature photography, the S100fs is a great choice. Release: March 2008. Price: $700.
Pros: Film-like noise, excellent RAW support, continuous RAW shooting, continuous zoom and focus rings
Cons: Some diffraction issues, unhelpful light meter
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| Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H10 |
Specs » Gallery » |
 The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H10 isn't the best looking camera in Sony's lineup, but it is one of the most functional. Sporting a full-manual mode, 10x zoom, an EV calibrated flash-control and ISO sensitivity up to 3200, the Sony DSC-H10 is as close to prosumer functionality as compacts get. Unfortunately the camera is hobbled by its reliance on Memory Stick Duo media, and image quality is not the highest we've seen from Sony. Nevertheless, if a high level of control is what you're seeking, then the Cyber-shot DSC-H10 could be a sound choice. Release: April 2008. Price: $230.
Pros: Optical image-stabilization. Carl Zeiss 10x zoom lens. Full manual-mode w/ EV flash control.
Cons: Exclusively supports Memory Stick Duo. Some color bleed. Chromatic aberration at wide angles.
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