These nine brands are generally reliable and either made a showing in our Quick Picks this issue or have major product lines. If you don't see a model in our Ratings (available to subscribers), these profiles can help you learn about the manufacturer's lineup.



The biggest model selection. Compacts are known as PowerShots. The moderately priced PowerShot A series is less likely than the S and G lines to have features such as image stabilization. (G models use proprietary batteries; most other Canon compacts use AAs.) Canon's subcompacts are known as SD ELPHs. The Digital Rebel series helped define budget SLRs. Other SLRs include a host of pro and "prosumer" models. In August, Canon announced two high-end models, the $1,300, 10-megapixel EOS 40D, with a live preview LCD, and the $8,000, 21-megapixel EOS 1Ds Mark III. Canon also offers a wider selection of lenses than most brands.



Point-and-shoot features, from basic to sophisticated. The budget A series is the lowest priced. A step up is the F series, which offers more advanced features. The Z series are the subcompacts. FinePix models include face detection, high ISO capabilities, and practical features such as the ability to fire two quick shots, with and without flash. Most new models have a slot for the expensive xD cards and another for cheaper SD. Certain models in the SLR-like S series are large, with an optical zoom range of 10x or greater. The pricey FinePix S Pro series SLRs target pro shooters. Fujifilm doesn't offer lenses, but models accept Nikon or compatible lenses from third-party manufacturers.



Inexpensive cameras targeted to the general consumer. Photosmart compacts, which range from the budget E and M series to the advanced R series, have a very narrow range of technical specifications. Some of the more innovative features offered in this line recently include a slimming feature, blemish removal, and pet red-eye removal. Most zooms are close to 3x; no model features image stabilization. Many models offer practical guides, including tips, in their menu interface for novices. HP doesn't offer SLRs.



Cameras made simple. Kodak focuses on ease of use, as indicated by its brand tagline and features such as Smart Scene mode, which automatically selects specialty modes. The budget C series includes some of the cheapest compacts available. Higher-end Z-, P-, and newer M-series compacts have longer zooms and more sophisticated features. The V series of subcompacts offers some of the most unusual point-and-shoot features, including Bluetooth wireless and innovative dual-lens/dual-sensor designs. Kodak doesn't offer SLRs.



SLR leader also offers innovative point-and-shoots. Coolpix compacts and subcompacts are divided into three series--a budget L, step-up S, and high-end P. Nikon has introduced more of these models with wireless features than any other company. Like Canon's SLR lineup, Nikon's D series offers cameras for every SLR user and budget and a wide range of lenses. Nikon's SLR bodies are typically less expensive than Canon's. In August, Nikon introduced two high-end models: the $1,800, 12-megapixel D300 with a live preview LCD and the $5,000, 12-megapixel D3.



Groundbreaking technologies in niche markets. Budget FE series compacts have built-in help guides and emphasize simple operation. Olympus recently offered some groundbreaking technologies in both point-and-shoot lines and Evolt SLRs. High-end SP compacts have featured very long zooms. Select Stylus subcompacts have been water-resistant, waterproof, shockproof, and crushproof. All point-and-shoots use the slightly more expensive xD memory cards. Evolt SLRs were the first with live-preview LCDs. Olympus offers a reasonable range of lenses.



On the move with image stabilization. Every Lumix, from the top SLR-like FZ series cameras to the budget LZ and LS series, has optical stabilization. FX-series subcompacts feature several modes and auto features; high-end LX can capture photos in 16:9 aspect mode, while the TZ-series compacts sport superzooms. Lumix cameras offer great value when they combine optical image stabilization with innovations such as intelligent ISO, which automatically raises the camera sensor's sensitivity when it detects motion, allowing faster shutter speed. Panasonic has been among the more reliable point-and-shoot brands. Panasonic offers two L-series SLR bodies and some lenses.



Up-and-comer in compacts and subcompacts. Has produced some very inexpensive compact digital cameras. Its pricier subcompact NV series includes an innovative navigation interface. The GX series of SLRs are essentially rebranded Pentax K-series SLRs. Samsung offers a limited selection of lenses.



Premium style, premium price. Sony offers innovations at relatively high prices. Cyber-shot compacts and subcompacts offer distinctions such as touch screens and sleek bodies. In recent tests, Sonys have beaten most brands in shutter lag and next-shot delay, two common complaints. All Sony point-and-shoots use proprietary (and pricey) Memory Stick storage. The W and S series are budget lines. High-end H- and G-series compacts and premium N- and T-series subcompacts tend to be pricier than other brands. A newcomer to SLRs, Sony offers one series, Alpha, with two bodies and a reasonable range of lenses.