Information

Recommended Digital Cameras and How We Review

Every week Photo Review evaluates the latest digital imaging equipment. Our independent product tests use objective benchmark software* that is internationally recognised.

The Photo Review Editor's Choice Award is given only to products that represent significant technical advances or offer special features that are of exceptional interest to photographers. 

CURRENT EDITOR'S CHOICES:

DSLR - Pro
Highest quality digital SLRs for professionals:
Nikon D3X 
Canon EOS-5D Mark II
Nikon D3 

DSLR - Prosumer
Superior quality digital SLRs:
Nikon D700  [right] 
Sony DSLR A700 

DSLR - Enthusiast
Full function DSLRs for keen photographers:
Nikon D90 
Canon EOS 50D 

DSLR - Four Thirds
Four Thirds System models:
Olympus E-30 
Olympus E-420

DSLR - Entry Level
Interchangeable lenses, superior image sensors, full control: 
Canon EOS 1000D 
Nikon D60 
Pentax K-m

Digicam - Advanced
Comprehensive range of controls and superior optics:
Canon PowerShot G10 [right]
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ28 

Digicam - Compact
Small cameras with a range of useful adjustable controls:
Canon PowerShot A580 
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H3

Digicam - Slimline
High quality pocketable cameras for everyday photographers:
Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ7
Canon Digital Ixus 80 IS  

Digicam - Special Feature
Waterproof:
Olympus Mju (Tough) 1030 SW [right]

Lenses
Sigma 18-250mm F3.5-6.3 DC OS HSM Lens
AF-S DX Nikkor 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens 

Lenses - Four Thirds
Olympus Zuiko Digital 14-54mm f/2.8-3.5 II Lens


If you need any help deciding which camera category is right for your needs, try our Camera Recommender tool.

* How We Review
All cameras and lenses tested at Photo Review are subjected to Imatest evaluation, which uses a test target/software evaluation system developed by Norman Koren in Boulder, Colorado (USA). The system provides objective measurements for:
- Image sharpness and the camera's ability to record fine detail
- Chromatic aberration
- Colour recording quality, tonal response and colour noise
- Camera tonal response and dynamic range.
See more information on Imatest at: http://imatest.com/.

All RRPs are in Australian dollars unless specified otherwise.

In addition to image quality testing, our camera reviews include an examination of innovative features, build quality, ease of use, and ability to shoot in low-light conditions. Photo Review quotes imager area dimensions in millimetres for all cameras reviewed, allowing buyers to calculate the actual size of photosites, which is the best indicator of potential picture quality.

We invite ALL camera manufacturers to submit cameras for review.

Camera Review Ratings
Ratings are based on how the camera performs in comparison to other cameras in the same category at the time the review was done. Readers should check the date of review and take that into consideration before making any purchase decision. The Overall rating also considers the camera's price at the time of review.

See Reviews section section for a comprehensive list of digital camera reviews, including ratings, test shots and Imatest charts.