Group test: what's the best camera?

5. Samsung NX11

• Reviewed on: 16 November 11
• RRP: £318 inc. VAT
• Rating:

The Samsung NX11 isn't as big as a traditional digital SLR, but it still has a digital SLR-sized sensor and its results are very good. You can use the NX11 for all types of photography (depending on the lenses you have), although it can struggle at times in low-light situations. We like the fact that you get an EVF and a flash built in. We don't care much for the i-Function feature in the new lenses, but it does give you another way of doing things when it comes to changing settings. Available for around £410 inc VAT, it's an interchangeable-lens camera that's well worth considering, but with entry level models from Nikon and Canon now available for not much more money, we think the NX11 would be more enticing at a lower price.

4. Canon IXUS 220 HS

• Reviewed on: 20 April 11
• RRP: £169 inc. VAT
• Rating:

The Canon IXUS 220 HS is a slim compact camera with a good image sensor. It's great for everyday use. The key aspects of the Canon IXUS 220 HS camera are its thin frame, which makes it very easy to carry in a trouser pocket, and its image quality, which is clear and vibrant. It has a retail price of £169, but if you're after a good quality, slim, automatic camera, then it's worth considering.

3. Nikon Coolpix S9100

• Reviewed on: 8 June 11
• RRP: £250.4 inc VAT
• Rating:

Styled like a high-end enthusiasts’ compact, complete with natty pop-up flash and stereo microphones, the S9100 is nevertheless an accessible point and shoot. While we'd direct experienced photographers not requiring a large zoom to the Coolpix P300, results from the S9100 were better that expected. We could shoot at extreme telephoto setting and get pin-sharp results, while subtle corner softening at maximum wide angle is forgivable. Add a best-in-class focal range, and the Nikon’s a winner in our book.

2. Olympus PEN E-P3

• Reviewed on: 19 August 11
• RRP: £799 inc. VAT
• Rating:

Olympus' third-gen Micro Four Thirds camera adds touchscreen features, extra filters and has an improved menu system.

1. Panasonic DMC-G3

• Reviewed on: 14 November 11
• RRP: £468 inc. VAT
• Rating:

Jam-packed with advanced features and delivering blistering speed. The DMC-G3 is the tiny camera that serious photographers will love.