Nikon Coolpix S610c

Value (6.50)
The Nikon Coolpix S610c currently goes for $299.95, the very tip of that sweet spot of what most people want to pay for a small point-and-shoot. It's a pretty competent camera for that price, if a bit short on manual controls. However, you can get the same camera for $50 less (the Coolpix S610, for $250) if you don't want the Wi-Fi  option. If the Wi-Fi capability appeals, by all means spend the extra money, but keep in mind that otherwise these two models are identical.

Comparisons

Nikon Coolpix S510 – This slightly older model from Nikon will set you back a mere $150, but you won't have the sexy Wi-Fi  functionality, and you'll be shooting at 8-megapixels instead of 10. The older camera also scored lower almost universally across our tests, most noticeably in dynamic range and manual noise (though it did do a bit better on white balance). This is definitely a less expensive choice for a still quite full-featured camera, if you don't need the Wi-Fi , and aren't worried about the 2-megapixel difference.

 Casio Exilim EX-Z300 – A $300 point-and-shoot from Casio, much like the S610c, this camera has a 4x zoom and a 10-megapixel sensor. The Casio scored better for color, resolution, noise, low light and video, but in general these were only minor differences. One problem we had with the EX-Z300 was an annoying interface that really detracted from the overall experience. Considering it's the same price, the Nikon strikes us as a stronger value thanks to the additional functionality of the Wi-Fi  system.

Samsung TL34HD – The same $300 you'd spend for the Nikon gets you this 14.7-megapixel touch-screen camera from Samsung, which we chose as our point-and-shoot of the year. While you won't get to upload over Wi-Fi , there is a significant megapixel advantage, a good user interface, responsive touch screen, HD video, and better scores for auto noise, white balance, color and resolution. If you're happy using a touch-screen camera, it may be worth seriously considering the Samsung over the Nikon.

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-T700 – If you really want a fantastic looking point-and-shoot camera, and don't mind paying a premium for the looks, then perhaps this Sony is more your taste. For $400 you get a beautifully designed device with a laege touch-screen display and a full 4 gigabytes of memory for use while shooting and showing off your photos. The T700 is a much better looking camera, with higher color, resolution and white balance scores than the Nikon. On the other hand, its touch screen is imprecise, and it had very poor noise and low light test scores.

Who It’s For
Point-and-Shooters – This camera is definitely aimed at the point-and-shoot crowd, as evidenced by its limited controls and extensive scene presets. It's a small point-and-shoot that can be pulled out a moment's notice, and take decent photos, which you can then upload to the Internet if desired.

Budget Consumers – At $300, this camera is at the high end of the budget range, but not untenable. Most likely, those looking after their wallets will be interested in purchasing the version of the camera sans Wi-Fi , and save $50 on the overall price.

Gadget Freaks – Gadget freaks will love the Wi-Fi feature that, thanks to the Wayport deal, is far more practical than previous wireless-enabled models. Uploading your photos for free from a hotel in France is pretty damn cool, especially at an eminently reasonable $300 price tag.

Manual Control Freaks – Manual control nuts will be instantly turned off by the complete lack of aperture and shutter controls. There really isn't much here for anyone who wants to fiddle with the minutiae of the camera.

Pros / Serious Hobbyists – The Wi-Fi feature might intrigue some serious photo buffs, but once again the lack of manual controls will cause problems.