PENTAX OPTIO 550, $600
ASSETS: Feature-rich five-megapixel unit with time-lapse mode, ability to shoot in 3-D, and fast-forward capabilities on movie playback.

LIABILITIES: Multiple status readings and icons make for a crowded LCD.

BOTTOM LINE: 5x zoom lens makes this compact camera a winner.

MORE INFO: www.pentax.com< br/>KODAK EASYSHARE DX6490, $500
ASSETS: Boasts superior 10x lens quality, a large 2.2-inch LCD display, and captures excellent night shots.

LIABILITIES:The shutter lag is
average, but it won’t please speed freaks.

BOTTOM LINE:This four-megapixel long-zoom digicam accommodates both amateurs and experienced users.

MORE INFO: www.kodak.com< br/>PANASONIC
SV AV100
D-SNAP, $1,000
ASSETS: This fab featherweight easily fits in pocket or purse, and its MPEG-2 settings yield CD-quality images.

LIABILITIES: A heart-fluttering price tag and somewhat limited storage capacity.

BOTTOM LINE:The smallest SD video camera skips tapes and records directly to card. A honey if you’ve got the money.

MORE INFO: www.panasonic.com