Olympus E-510

Review summary: This 10-megapixel, advanced enthusiast DSLR is a major improvement over the Evolt E-330 for sports action.

Pros: Excellent image quality at all ISOs ; feature-rich design ; sensor-based image stabilization works with all Olympus Zuiko Digital lenses

Cons: Menu system unpolished, harder to use than rival cameras ; sensor-based image stabilization not as effective as lens-based stabilization ; sluggish Live View mode

Verdict: The Olympus Evolt E-510 is a solid choice for someone looking to step up from a point-and-shoot or compact camera.

Review summary: The E-510 is the most complete general public reflex: stabilization, anti-dust, LCD aiming, and 10 MP. With excellent ergonomics and very good image quality, this camera rivals and sometimes surpasses the current leaders, the Canon 400D and Nikon D40x.

Pros: High performance optical stabilization, Good ergonomics, Antidust system, Very good noise control, Direct shooting with the LCD screen

Cons: Very small optical viewfinder, Burst mode needs a fast memory card, White balance unpredictable in high sensitivities, No rotating LCD screen

Review summary: While many low-cost digital SLRs are compromised in terms of features, Olympus is bucking the trend with its Olympus Evolt E-510.

Verdict: Many DSLR vendors are streamlining their offerings to appeal to novices; in the process, they strip out features or skimp on quality. Olympus is taking a different tack. With the Olympus Evolt E-510, you get a full-featured DSLR with more advanced ...

Review summary: If you worry that you'll outgrow the functionality of other entry-level DSLRs -- and you don't want to spend a bundle to get the features -- the E-510 is a very good choice.

Pros: Excellent image quality ; extensive feature set, including exposure, flash, and color balance bracketing ; Live View mode lets you view images on the LCD screen instead of in the viewfinder ; light and comfortable to carry

Cons: Accessing advanced functions can be confusing ; no manual focusing switch on lens

Verdict: One of the first things I noticed when picking up the camera with the standard 14-42mm zoom lens was how light it was: the camera and lens together weigh less than two pounds. The E-510 doesn't feel flimsy, however. The body is well-built, and the ...