Compare Prices : Nikon Coolpix 4800

Pros: Compact body for an ultra zoom ; Very good photo quality (though a bit noisy) ; AF-assist lamp ; Top-notch macro ability ; Many scene modes ; LCD/EVF usable in low light ; Handy BSS feature ; Supports proprietary and "regular" batteries ; Optional ...

Cons: Slow AF speeds, noticeable shutter lag, shot-to-shot delays can be annoying ; 8.3X zoom is on the low end of things in the ultra zoom market ; Aside from white balance, no manual controls ; To get to slowest shutter speeds you must give up control ...

Verdict: The CP4800 is one of those cameras with a lens cover built right into the lens. I did have trouble with those little plastic pieces getting stuck, but it's probably just specific to my camera

Review summary: A useful zoom range and a competent EVF are the key attractions of this 4-megapixel point-and-shoot compact

Pros: Great zoom range ; fast zooming ; decent electronic viewfinder performance ; useful scene modes ; excellent red-eye prevention

Cons: Few manual controls ; lots of visual noise in images ; no manual exposure controls

Pros: Great zoom range ; fast zooming ; decent electronic viewfinder performance ; useful scene modes ; excellent red-eye prevention

Cons: Few manual controls ; lots of visual noise in images ; no manual exposure controls

Verdict: A useful wide-to-supertelephoto zoom range and a competent EVF are the key attractions of this 4-megapixel point-and-shoot compact.

Review summary: This weighty contender has much to offer

Pros: Powerful optical zoom ; easy to use ; range of features

Cons: Bulky and not that portable

Verdict: Versatile and feature-rich, the Nikon has a lot to offer the less fashion-conscious photographer