Finding the best compact camera for your needs is never going to be easy, because the compact camera market is a very crowded place.
There are hundreds of digital compact cameras out there, waiting for you to ogle them, to scratch your heads over them, and eventually hand over your hard-earned cash for them.
Once the transaction is complete and you're unboxing your newest purchase, a nagging doubt enters your mind: did I make the right choice?
The right choice, of course, depends on what you want from your digital camera. Maybe you're looking for a high-end compact camera or perhaps you want something more basic to help someone else get started in photography.
Whichever compact digital camera you might be looking for, we've pulled together a selection of what we believe are the best compact digital cameras on the market now.
Best compact cameras 2012: Advanced
Fujifilm Finepix X100
Price: £695/$1,200
Specs: 12.3MP APS-C fromat CMOS sensor, 23mm f/2 lens, hybrid viewfinder
Fuji created a stir when it announced this retro-styled compact with an 12.3 megapixel APS-C sized CMOS sensor. The fixed 23mm f/2 lens provides a bright aperture for low light shooting and an angle of view roughly equivalent to a 35mm lens on a 35mm camera.
Its design is aimed to appeal to experienced photographers and enthusiasts, who like direct exposure control with an aperture ring, shutter-speed dial . It also sports a raw image mode and has a unique hybrid viewfinder that combines an electronic and optical finder in the same view.
Read our Fuji X100 review
Fujifilm Finepix X10
Price: £390/$600
Specs 12MP CMOS sensor, 4x f/2-2.8 optical zoom, Manual zoom ring, 1080p HD video
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Another retro-styled camera from Fujifilm, although this one is quite different to the X100. A 4x zoom lens with a bright maximum aperture of f/2-2.8 is fitted to a metal camera body containing a 1 /2.3î EXR CMOS sensor.
Manual controls are easily accessible and pictures can be recorded in a raw image format. Even the zoom ring is operated manually, which is unusual for a compact camera and a large bright optical viewfinder is provided for those who prefer this to using the screen for composing images.
Add in 1080p HD video recording and you have a highly specified camera that justifies the high price tag.
Read our Fuji X10 review
Canon Powershot G1 X
Price: £700/$800
Specs: Large 14.3MP CMOS sensor, 4x optical zoom, 1080p HD video, swivel LCD screen
Although the zoom range is limited when compared to other Canon G-series cameras, the trump card of the Canon G1 X is its unusually large sensor. A larger sensor has more surface area to receive light, improving image quality at high sensitivities and boosting dynamic range. Interestingly, Canon has opted to stick with the 4:3 aspect ratio, rather than 3:2 as most APS-C sensors are, even though the sensor in the G1 X is roughly the same height as APS-C format.
In order to make the most of what the sensor can offer, Canon has equipped the G1 X with the latest DIGIC 5 processor, which promises better control over noise at high ISO sensitivities, faster operation and smoother 1080p video recording.
The 4x zoom lens provides an angle of view equivalent to a 28-122mm lens on a 35mm camera, and the usual array of direct controls found on G-series cameras should make manual operation a pleasure.
Read our Canon G1 X review
Canon PowerShot G12
Price: £400/$420
Specs: 10MP CMOS sensor, 5x stabilised optical zoom lens, 720p HD video, swivel screen
Canon's G-series cameras have been the benchmark by which other high-end compacts are judged ever since the G1 released at the turn of the century. The G12 continues this tradition with it's strong magnesium body, highly sensitive 10MP CMOS sensor, 720p video, 5x Image Stabilised zoom lens and DIGIC 4 image processor.
Experienced photographers will enjoy the direct exposure controls, HDR capability and raw image recording, whereas more casual photographers are catered for by a wide range of automatic scene programs and face detection.
Add to this multi-aspect shooting, and you can see why this compact camera gives interchangeable lens cameras a run for their money.
Read our Canon G12 review
Ricoh GR Digital IV
Price: £435/$600
Specs: 10MP CCD sensor, 28mm (equiv) f/1.9 lens, 1,230,000 dot 3-inch LCD screen
A pocketable camera with a high quality lens, equivalent to a 28mm lens on a 35mm camera, and a fast f/1.9 maximum aperture. The GR Digital IV follows in Ricoh's tradition of producing high quality compact cameras that are ideal for street photography.
Despite the compact dimensions, manual controls are easily accessible and a 3-inch LCD screen with an extremely high resolution of 1,230,000 dots has been squeezed onto the rear. Images can be shot in raw formats too.
Strangely Ricoh hasn't followed the trend of including HD video capability, the GRD IV will record video, but only at VGA resolution.
Read our Ricoh GR Digital IV review
Nikon Coolpix P310
Price: £235/$315
Specs: 16MP CMOS sensor, 4.2x zoom with a fast f/1.8 aperture, Full HD video, Optical VR
The Nikon Coolpix P310 builds on the features its popular predecessor sported with a higher resolution 16MP rear-illuminated CMOS sensor, which should enhance the camera's ability to take images in low light. Couple this with a bright f/1.8 lens and you have a formidable, pocketable camera for taking pictures in a wide range of conditions.
If tinkering with raw image files is a feature you desire, this camera may not be for you, since images can only be recorded in JPEG format. But given the bargain basement price, it still represents excellent value.
We haven't completed a full review of the camera yet, so in the meantime, read our rundown of the Nikon 310's main features
Olympus XZ-1
Price: £310/$500
Specs: 10MP CCD sensor, 4x optical zoom lens with a maximum aperture of f/1.8, 720p HD video
As well as being one of the most stylish high-end compact cameras on the market, the Olympus XZ-1 sports a larger than normal CCD sensor and a 4x zoom Zuiko lens with a maximum aperture of f/1.8, which both enable this camera to take excellent pictures in low light conditions.
Full manual control is possible, but also a comprehensive range of automatic exposure programs and fun art effects that can be applied to images. Add in the 720p HD video mode and the Olympus XZ-1 is well worthy of consideration.
Read our Olympus XZ-1 review
Canon PowerShot S100
Price: £360/$390
Specs: 12.1MP CMOS sensor, 5x image stabilised zoom lens with 24mm wide angle and f/2 maximum aperture, 1080p HD video
Canon's latest advanced compact raises the bar set by the S95 by including a 12.1MP high sensitivity CMOS sensor, manual control, and Full HD video.
The combination of a large 1/1.7-inch sensor with Canon's latest DIGIC 5 image processing chip and the bright f/2 lens delivers excellent quality at high sensitivities. The compact body also provides full manual control, with adjustments applied directly via the bezel around the lens and the ability to record raw images.
A strip of rubber on the front of the S100 gives it extra grip over the S95.
Read our Canon S100 review
Nikon has managed to squeeze an impressive 18x zoom lens with optical Vibration Reduction into a slim camera body that is only 30.6mm thick. The Vibration Reduction system will help increase the chance of taking sharp images, especially at the telephoto end of the zoom range, and it will also help steady the image on the 3-inch LCD screen, for easier composition.
A 16MP rear-illuminated CMOS sensor coupled with the latest Expeed C2 image processing chip should provide better quality images at high sensitivities and smoother video than previous processor generations.
Nikon's usual comprehensive array of automatic scene modes and a wide range of special effects will help beginners to be creative. GPS technology can be used to track your location and share where images were taken when uploaded to many popular image sharing websites.
Read the Nikon Coolpix S9300 announcement
Canon PowerShot SX260 HS
Price: £330/$350
Specs: 12MP CMOS sensor, 20x image stabilised optical zoom, 1080p video, GPS
Sporting a 20x zoom lens offering an angle of view equivalent to a 25-500mm lens on a 35mm camera, the Canon PowerShot SX260 HS should be very well equipped for those who wish to travel light.
A 12MP rear-illuminated CMOS sensor, coupled with the latest DIGIC 5 image processor, enables this camera to take great quality images, even in low light. The image stabiliser system will also help with taming camera shake when shooting at low shutter speeds.
Full HD video can be recorded and output via the built-in HDMI interface and global positioning information can be recorded for sharing on image and video sharing websites. Advanced photographers will also appreciate the inclusion of manual exposure options, whereas a wide range of automatic shooting options are also included for those who are less technically inclined.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX20V
Price: £400/$400
Specs: 18MP CMOS Sensor, 20x optical zoom, 1080p video at 50fps, GPS
An 18MP Exmor R sensor promises excellent quality low light images, despite the relatively high resolution. A 20x optical zoom lens providing an angle of view equivalent to a 35-500mm lens on a 35mm camera should cover most photographic situations when travelling.
High quality Full HD 50p videos can be recorded, and a GPS function is included for tagging images with your position. Plenty of artistic picture effects and easy creative options are also included to get your creativity flowing.
Olympus SH-25MR
Price: £190/$350
Specs: 16MP CMOS sensor, 12.5x zoom, take still images while recording HD video, dual Image Stabilisation
Although a 12.5x zoom range may seem quite modest when compared to other travel compacts on offer, the 24mm wide angle will certainly be handy for shots in cramped conditions, or large buildings you may encounter on your travels.
Just like many other travel-orientated compact cameras, GPS tracking is included and a rear-illuminated 16MP CMOS sensor should provide decent quality in low light conditions.
Unique to this camera is the ability to take still images at the same time as recording video clips, enabling you to capture high quality stills to complement your high definition video.
Read the Olympus SH-25MR announcement
Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ20/ZS10
Price: £230/$220
Specs: 14.1MP CMOS sensor, 16x optical zoom, 1080p HD video, touchscreen interface, 3D still images
If an optically stabilised 16x Leica zoom lens isn't enough to impress, then maybe the 1080p video, GPS and 3D still photo features will be enough to persuade you to buy the Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ20 - or ZS10, as it's called in the US?
A touchscreen interface provides access to full manual exposure control as well as Panasonic's Intelligent Auto mode, for straightforward point and shoot photography.
Panasonic's Intelligent zoom feature enables some of the 14.1MP resolution to be traded for extra zoom range, extending the effective zoom range to 21x with pretty good results compared to conventional digital zoom systems. With GPS, HD video and 3D technology, the Panasonic TZ20 really does seem feature-packed.
Read our Panasonic TZ20 review
Fujifilm FinePix F770 EXR
Price: £300/$345
Specs: 16MP EXR CMOS sensor, 20x optical zoom, ISO 12,800, 1080p video, 8fps high speed continuous shooting
If you've ever struggled to capture the perfect shot of Minky The Whale jumping through a hoop at Sea World, then the Fuji F770 EXR has the solution. It is capable of taking full resolution shots at a blistering pace of eight frames per second, and if you wish to share where the image was taken via popular image sharing services, GPS information can be recorded too.
The rear-illuminated 16MP EXR CMOS sensor has a few tracks up its sleeve too. It can be optimised to take high resolution 16MP images, or images with improved dynamic range at reduced resolution.
By combining neighbouring pixels, sensitivities of up to ISO12,800 are also possible, making this camera ideal for shooting with in adverse conditions.
Best Compact Cameras 2012: Superzooms
Canon PowerShot SX40 HS
Price: £335/$420
Specs 12.1MP CMOS sensor, 35x image stabilised optical zoom lens, 1080p HD video, swivel LCD screen
An impressive 35x zoom lens equivalent to 24-800mm on a 35mm camera adorns the Canon Powershot SX40 HS. Unlike its predecessor, the SX30 IS, this camera uses Canon's HS sytem, which combines a high sensitivity sensor with the latest DIGIC 5 image processor to provide, clean and sharp images, even in low light conditions.
Both casual snappers and experienced photographers are catered for a comprehensive range of scene program modes, Smart Auto and full manual control. 1080P HD video clips can also be recorded using either the electronic viewfinder of Vari-Angle LCD screen for composition.
Read our Canon SX40 review
Nikon Coolpix L310
Price: £199 (about $320)
Specs: 14MP CCD sensor, 21x stabilised optical zoom, 720p video, smart portrait system
This budget offering from Nikon aims to make picture taking as easy as possible, while providing a raft of impressive features, for not a lot of money.
For starters the 21x optical zoom lens is equivalent to a 25-525mm lens on a 35mm camera, and features Nikon's Vibration Reduction technology to tame camera shake. For close up images, the macro facility enables focusing as close as 1cm from the front element of the lens.
The Smart Portrait system uses Smile Detection, Red Eye Fix, Skin Softening and a warning if the camera detects that your subject may have blinked in the picture. This system should make taking pictures of family and friends a foolproof affair.
Read the Nikon Coolpix L310 announcement
Olympus SZ-31MR
Price: £280/$400
Specs: 16MP CMOS sensor, 24x optical zoom, take still images while recording HD video, dual Image Stabilisation
As well as including a 24x zoom lens covering a range equivalent to a 26-600mm lens on a 35mm camera, the Olympus SZ-31MR has a few other tricks up its sleeve.
1080p videos can also be recorded, and if you spot an opportunity for a still image, one can be captured while recording video. Standard definition video at frame rates up to 240fps can be recorded for creating slow motion effects.
The dual image stabilisation system should tame camera shake in images taken in low light, or at high telephoto settings. Still images can also be taken in 3D, which is a fun addition.
Read the Olympus SZ-31MR announcement
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX200V
Price: £470/$480
Specs: 18MP CMOS Sensor, 30x optical zoom, 1080p video at 50fps, GPS
Not to be outdone by anyone else, Sony's HX200V can take an impressive 10 frames per second in burst mode, and its 30x optical zoom should provide plenty of flexibility for many a shooting scenario. The 18MP CMOS sensor provides an improvement in resolution over its predecessor, too.
Panoramic images can be taken by sweeping the camera across the scene, with the camera automatically stitching a sequence of shots together for you, and 3D images can also be taken. GPS information can be recorded for adding to popular image sharing websites.
Read our hands on Sony HX200V review
Panasonic FZ48/FZ47
Price: £270 (about $435)
Specs 12.1MP CCD sensor, 24x optical zoom (25-600mm equivalent), Optical Image Stabilisation, manual exposure control
Known as the FZ47 in the US, this mini SLR style camera provides for casual snappers and experienced photographers alike with a wealth of exposure modes - though raw file recording is not possible.
Autofocus speed is faster than the average superzoom camera's, which makes it a good option for sport and action photography - especially coupled with the 3.7fps burst mode.
The pixel count may only be 12.1 million, but this benefits the camera because the low sensitivity images have a decent level of detail. This combines with great exposure and good colour reproduction to make the FZ48 a well rounded performer.
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