The 6 best digital cameras of the moment: the best all-rounder, the best-value digital camera, the best budget option, the best choice if money is no object.
Updated: May 17, 2013 2:49 PM
By Renaud Labracherie / Morgane Alzieu / Arthur Azoulay / Bruno Labarbere

Editor's choice

Panasonic Lumix TZ40 award

Panasonic Lumix TZ40

Panasonic is back on top with the Lumix TZ40 superzoom compact. Its impressive spec sheet includes GPS, Wi-Fi, NFC, a touchscreen and a 20x zoom with an excellent stabilisation system. This camera is also very responsive, so you shouldn't miss out on any action. The TZ40 is a feature-rich, versatile and balanced superzoom compact for intrepid travellers, tech-fans and roving point-and-shooters looking for a lightweight snapper.

Best of the rest

Experts and Pros

Fujifilm X20 award

Fujifilm X20
The Fuji X20 offers a unique user experience with its built-in optical viewfinder and manual zooming ring. But it's above all Fuji's original X-Trans processor that's impressive here. It's sure to blow away anyone looking for top-notch image quality.

Top Value

Canon PowerShot SX260 HS

Canon PowerShot SX260 HS
The SX260 is a direct rival for Sony's HX20V. However, it missed out on a five-star review due to its insufficient battery life. Otherwise, picture quality is good and the camera generally handles well.

Budget Option

Canon Ixus 230 HS

Canon Ixus 230 HS
With a decent zoom lens, a good sensor, a nice enough design and a screen that's visible from all angles, the Ixus 230 is no show-stopper, but you'll be hard pushed to find a better option at this price.

Two alternatives

Great for Kids

Nikon Coolpix S30

Nikon Coolpix S30
This isn't an amazing camera, but among all the models designed for kids, it's the only one we've seen that gives half-way decent performances. Its design has also been well thought out.

Tough Cookie

Olympus TG-2

Olympus TG-2
This camera is shockproof, crushproof and waterproof to 12 metres. On top of that, it's responsive, versatile and takes decent-quality pictures. What more could you ask for?


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