Sony Cyber-shot DSC-V3

So they're good, but in comparison to a digital SLR (and remember you can pick up an EOS 300D for £525) the Nikon lacks a great deal: the feel and responsiveness; the super-fast manual zoom and auto focus; the absolute image quality. And you're limited to a minimum aperture of f8 too. The same criticisms can be levelled at the Sony, but this is mitigated by the lower price and the fact that it's considerably more compact than an SLR. Both are capable cameras, then, but the price premium for their megapixel ratings and other cutting-edge features is too high.

Author: DAVID FEARON