Review: Toshiba leads best digital cameras

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By PCWorld staff writer

(IDG) -- One new digital camera makes the chart this month: Toshiba's $279 PDR-M25 hits number four. This simple point-and-shoot model produces fairly sharp images. Its shutter button, zoom, and other functions seemed slow to react, however.

The Kodak DX3700 just missed the chart. Its battery life was the longest we've seen, but it took dark and off-color photos. Also falling short, Konica's tiny KD-300Z fits anywhere, but its battery lasted a mere 90 shots in our tests. Canon discontinued several of its cameras this month to make way for new models; watch for future reviews.

Top 10 digital cameras

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1. Toshiba PDR-M71: The PDR-M71 doesn't break new ground in design or features, but it strikes a fine balance between price, image quality, ease of use, and versatility.
2. Casio QV-2900UX: Although its print quality could be better, the QV-2900UX offers great battery life -- as well as the option of manual control -- for less than $400.
3. HP Photosmart 318: The HP Photosmart 318 is a lightweight, inexpensive choice for basic photos, but it doesn't capture detail well.
4. Toshiba PDR-M25: You can buy better cameras, but you'll pay much more for them. The PDR-M25 is a solid value for a simple point-and-shoot.
5. Olympus Camedia C-2040 Zoom: The picture settings are bewildering, but the C-2040 Zoom offers very good image quality and lots of flexibility.
6. Fujifilm FinePix 2600 Zoom: With moderate resolution, basic controls, and an optical zoom, the Fujifilm's FinePix 2600 is a nice fit for casual photographers who want to keep it simple.
7. Nikon Coolpix 775: Though strictly point and shoot, the Coolpix 775 combines tiny size, zooming capability, and flexible picture-taking options.
8. Casio QV-3500EX: The QV-3500EX is not a very appealing camera to look at or use, but it gives you a lot for the price.
9. Kodak DX3900 Zoom: Photo enthusiasts will likely sneer at the DX3900 Zoom's simplicity, but people who value ease of use over sophisticated features might find it just the ticket.
10. Olympus Camedia D-510 Zoom: Although nicely appointed for a $399 camera, the Olympus Camedia D-510 Zoom falls short on ease of use and picture quality.