Best Digital Cameras of 2011

For those unfamiliar with the jargon, a full-frame DSLR is a digital single lens reflex camera with an image sensor that is the size of a 35mm negative.  Topping out the category is the Canon EOS 5D Mark II. 

Price

The main reasons for the Canon being placed in this position is the combination of price and mega pixels.  The Canon outstrips its competitors, the Nikon D700 and the Sony A900 in terms of price.  You can find a 5D Mark II for around as low as $2,300 where the Nikon D700 is typically found somewhere around $2,800 and the Sony A900 is closer to $3,000.

Mega Pixels

While we know that mega pixels are everything, it helps to have more rather than less.  With the Nikon D700 sporting a meager 12.1MP and the A900 topping the charts at 24.6MP, the 5D Mark II comes very close to the Sony with 21.1MP.  Most other features between the Sony and the Canon are similar, therefore, it only makes sense to determine that you would be paying an extra $700 for 3.5MP.

Canon EOS 5D Mark II Main Features and Stats

• 21.1 mega pixel CMOS sensor
• Sensor dust reduction
• ISO 100 - 6400 calibrated range
• ISO 50 - 25600 expansion
• Auto ISO (100 - 3200) in all modes except manual
• 3.9 frames per second continuous shooting
• DIGIC 4 processor
• ISO display on both top and viewfinder
• RAW and SRAW1 (10 MP)
• SRAW2 (5 MP)
• RAW / JPEG selection made separately
• Three custom modes
• Image copyright support (metadata)
• Automatic LCD brightness adjustment  via ambient light sensor
• Live view with three mode AF including face detection
• 98% coverage viewfinder (0.71x magnification)
• 3.0" LCD monitor with 'Clear View' cover, and 170° viewing angle
• Movie recording in live view (1080p H.264 up to 12 minutes, VGA H.264 up to 24 minutes per clip)
• Water Resistance: 10 mm rain in 3 minutes

Why the Canon 5D Mark II is The Best Full Frame DSLR?

While some might not agree with the choice of the Canon EOS 5D Mark II as the Best Full Frame DSLR in 2011 (the Nikon full frame is right on its heals), the stats and pricing speak for themselves. Certainly, for pure image quality it's hard to do better than the 5D Mark II paired with Canon's top glass. Add the fact that the Canon wins the Full Frame price war while offering pretty much the same or better features for that price, and our pick goes to the Canon 5D Mark II as one of the best cameras out there for image quality and functionality AND the best full frame DSLR of 2011.

The criterion for the Best Entry Level DSLR are ease of use, controls allowing for automatic function as well as controlled function, video capabilities and price.  The camera, which seems to meet all of the above the best is the Nikon D3100.  An upgraded version of the D3000, the D3100 provides a great price point at around $500 including a the kit lens (AF-S DX 18-55mm) along with a slew of features to make growing with the camera comfortable and easy.

The inclusion of full HD 1080p video is also a big plus in favor of the D3100, as most other entry level DSLRs in this price range do not offer any video option.  While there may be slight limitations with the amount of video the D3100 allows you to take, having it as an added feature is huge.  Here are some of the stats for the D3100.

Nikon D3100 Main Features and Stats

• 14.2 megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor
• 3.0" LCD monitor
• Image sensor cleaning
• 11 AF points including 3D tracking
• IS0 100-3200 range
• Expandable to ISO 12,800
• HD video
• High resolution sensor of 14.2MP
• Ability to shoot Raw + Fine JPEG
• Live view
• Full-time AF mode including AF-F in live view

Why the Nikon D3100 is The Best Entry Level DSLR?

When one considers the 14.2MP CMOS sensor (DX format), full HD video capture, multiple control options, the Guide Mode (helping users with features and learning), added automatic focus during Live View, overall sturdiness, and price, the Nikon D3100 tops the list of the Best Entry Level DSLR for 2011.

The Best Crop Sensor DSLR Camera: Nikon D7000

The camera that takes the cake for Best Crop Sensor DSLR for 2011 is the Nikon D7000.  The price point alone on this camera would set it apart from the competition.  One can purchase the Nikon D7000 body only for $1,199.95 almost anywhere, or add a couple hundred for the kit lens.  Either way, you will be hard pressed to find an equivalent camera for less than $2,200 on the market.

The D7000 has a crop factor of 1.5x which means that its 16.2MP CMOS sensor measures in at 24mm x 16mm and fits the standard Nikon DX lenses (the FX lenses are full frame).  Price point is not the only feature that places the D7000 firmly at the top of the leader board, full 1080p HD video, dual memory card slots, high and low ISO settings, durability, Live View, and a 39-point AF system with 3D tracking all helped to propel this offering from Nikon to the top.

Nikon D7000 Features and Stats

• 16.2MP CMOS sensor
• 1080p HD video recording including a microphone jack for external microphone
• ISO 100-6400
• H1 and H2 equivalent to ISO 12,800/25,600)
• 39-point AF system with 3D tracking
• 2016 pixel metering sensor
• Scene Recognition System
• Using the 2016 pixel sensor
• aids white balance
• aids metering
• aids focus accuracy
• Twin SD card slots
• Choice of 12-bit or 14-bit NEF (RAW)
• records in compressed format
• records in lossless compressed format
• 100% viewfinder
• 3.0 inch LCD screen
• New Live View
• One touch movie shooting switch
• Full-time AF in Live View and movie modes
• Up to 6fps continuous shooting
• Built-in intervalometer
• Electronic virtual horizon
• Non-CPU lens data function
• Up to 9 'non-CPU' lenses can be registered
• Magnesium alloy body shell
• 'Quiet' single frame advance mode
• Mirror lock-up (differentiated from 'exposure delay mode')

When talking mid-range DSLR cameras, the issue of price and functionality are the main two areas of focus and concern.  While the Nikon D7000 would likely top this category as well, due to these two areas, there are other cameras that do a great job as well.  When one considers the myriad offerings of mid-range DSLRs on the market today, it becomes difficult to wade through the miry waters to find the best.  However difficult that task might have been, we are able to offer you our choice of the Best Mid-Range DSLR for 2011 in the Canon EOS 60D.

Canon EOS 60D Features and Stats

• 18MP APS-C CMOS sensor
• ISO 100-3200 (Expands to 12,800)
• 5.3 fps in continuous shooting mode
• In-camera Creative Filters
• In-camera raw development
• 1080p HD video recording with manual controls
• Fully articulated 3.0" screen (3:2)
• SD / SDHC / SDXC storage
• Wireless Speedlight control
• Plastic body shell

Why the Canon EOS 60D is the Best Mid-Range DSLR?

The Canon EOS 60D has a lot to offer for a camera running just at $1,000.  One notable difference between the 60D and the 50D is that the newer 60D offers a video mode allowing you to shoot full 1080p HD video, 720p, and 640 x 480 standard definition video.  The 3.0-inch flip out LCD is a nice option for shooting in Live View mode and helps those moving from point and shoot cameras adjust to the world of DSLRs.  The price and the features of the Canon EOS 60D bring it to the top of the list as the Best Mid-Range DSLR of 2011.

One of the biggest considerations for an enthusiast DSLR is pricing and controls.  While functionality and control are typically at the top of the list for professionals, the enthusiasts in the photography world range in skill and experience.  The ability to shoot in fully automatic modes as well as have the option to go fully manual and all priority modes in between while maintaining a relatively low price point is what will make a camera climb the list for Best Enthusiast DSLR for 2011.  Trying to keep the cost under $900 for a quality DSLR that includes a kit lens can be a difficult feat to accomplish and yet, Canon seems up to the task with the Canon EOS 600D Rebel T3i.

Canon EOS D600 Rebel T3i Features and Stats

• 18 Megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor
• DIGIC 4 processor with ISO 100-6400
• Expandable to 12800
• Scene Intelligent Auto mode
• Full-HD EOS Movie with manual control and selectable frame rates
• Digital zoom in movie mode (3x - 10x)
• 'Video Snapshot' mode for the creation of multi-take movies
• On-screen Feature Guide
• 3.7fps continuous shooting
• New 'Scene Intelligent Auto' exposure mode (replacing full auto)
• Wide-area 9-point AF
• Fully articulated 7.7cm (3.0”) 3:2 Clear View LCD
• Basic+ and Creative Filters
• Built-in wireless flash control
• $899 including a 18-55mm IS lens

Why the Canon EOS 600D Rebel T3i is the Best Enthusiast DSLR?

For those that are familiar with Canon models, the 600D T3i is the 550D with a flip out screen.  The 18MP CMOS sensor, Full HD video, and 9-point AF feature will help all levels of photographers produce stunning quality images.  The features and stats along with the price easily relate why the Canon EOS 600D Rebel T3i tops the list of Best Enthusiast DSLR of 2011.  Having only become available in the Spring of 2011, this camera is sure to continue to make a big splash in a very large pond.

The requirements for a pro DSLR are stringent to say the least.  Professionals demand quality, performance, and reliability as givens with any of their tools.  Their cameras are no exception and a pro will willingly shell out multiple thousands of dollars for a camera that will do exactly what he or she demands of it.  One such DSLR is the Canon EOS 1D Mark IV. 

Offering a vast range of ISO settings, from ISO 50 clear up to and impressive ISO 102,400, full HD 1080p video, 10fps continuous shooting, dual DIGIC 4 image processors, a 63-zone evaluative metering system, and a battery rated for 1,500 exposures on a single charge, The 1D Mark IV tops the list when money is no object.  Priced at a steep $4,999.99 for the body only, this pro DSLR pack a punch that helps one forget the cost.

Canon EOS 1D mark IV Features and Stats

• 45-point Area AF sensor
•  39 cross-type AF points with f/2.8 support
• AI Servo II AF with improved algorithm.
• ISO 100 - 12800 (Expandable to L: 50, H1: 25600, H2: 51200, H3: 102400 for shooting from bright to dim light with low noise levels)
• EOS HD movie with manual exposure control and multiple frame rates
• 16.1 Megapixel APS-H CMOS sensor
• Dual DIGIC 4 Image Processors producing high image quality and speed.
• 10.0 fps continuous shooting
• 3.0-inch ClearView II LCD monitor (920,000-dot VGA)
• Magnesium alloy body
• Shutter durability up to 300,000 cycles
• Dust and weather-resistance.
• CF Card Type I and II
• SD/SDHC Memory Card (1 slot each)

Why the EOS 1D mark IV is the Best Pro DSLR?

The 1D has just about everything a pro photographer needs in a single camera, and while the cost might put some off, pros know that when purchasing the Canon EOS 1D Mark IV, it is money well spent.

The Fujifilm X100 tops the list as the Best “Pro” Compact Camera for 2011.  Fuji was very clear from the beginning with the X100 that they were interested in making a pro level camera for pro users.  The X100 is a photographers camera designed by photographers.  The price is up there with many of the DSLRs on the market today with its $1,200 price tag.  However, users will not be disappointed with the results that come from this tiny, albeit, retro designed compact camera.

Fuji X100 Features and Stats

• 12.3MP APS-C Size CMOS Sensor
• FUJINON 23mm f/2.0 Prime lens
• Switchable Electronic /Optical Viewfinder
• 2.8″ LCD Monitor
• JPEG + RAW
• ISO 100- ISO 12,800
• HD 720p Video
• Magnesium Alloy Body
• Retro Design
• High Speed Autofocus
• Built-In Flash
• TTL Hot shoe for external flash mount

Why the Fujifilm X100 is the Best Pro Compact Camera?

The X100 is a 12.3MP APS-C sized sensor is the same kind used in most pro level DSLRs on the market today and with the 23mm f/2.0 prime Fujinon lens, the image clarity is astounding.  The high speed leaf shutter allows for flash sync as fast as 1/4000th and the built in neutral density filter can be turned on to allow for up to three stops of exposure compensation. 

While the camera looks like an old Leica from film days, the back of the camera reveals a 2.8-inch LCD screen along with control wheel and rocker.  Also included on the X100 is an exposure compensation dial, manual focus ring, tiny built in flash, and a TTL hot shoe for an external flash unit.   Users can shoot in full auto or full manual and everywhere in between.  While not a DSLR, the viewfinder allows for an electronic relay from the lens and includes an overlay of all the pertinent information concerning settings.  The LCD screen can also be used to frame and shoot pictures if lighting does not allow for viewfinder shooting.  All of this combined with the ability to shoot video places the Fujifilm X100 at the top of the list for the Best “Pro” Compact Camera of 2011.

Honerable Mentions

Another option is to look at the Canon Powershot G12, which offers many of the same features and takes pictures with similar image quality.

For those who want a decent camera with which to take pictures while not be required to lug around a larger and heavier DSLR but require a decent feature set, all while keeping the cost below $200, it might seem as if the task is too difficult to accomplish.  Fortunately, there is some good news.  The Canon PowerShot A1000 IS fits the bill.  Far from the perfect camera, the A1000 brings a host of features normally found only on higher priced models.  Here are some of the specs, pros, and cons that have firmly placed the Canon PowerShot A1000 is at the top of the list of Best Point and Shoot Camera Under $200 for 2011.

Canon PowerShot A1000 IS Features and Stats

• 10.0 megapixels
• Optical zoom: 4X (35mm- 140mm)
• 2.5-inch LCD
• Battery: 2 AA-size
• Dimensions: 3.76 x 2.46 x 1.22 inches
• Weight: 5.47 oz. (without battery or memory card)
• Image sensor: 1/2.3-inch CCD
• Image Stabilization
• DIGIC III processing engine
• 17 shooting modes
• Motion detection
• Auto red eye correction
• Face detection
• f/2.7 to f/5.6
• Shutter speeds from 15- 1/1600th
• ISO 80/100/200/400/800/1600

Why the Canon PowerShot A1000 is the Best Under 200 Point and Shoot?

For a camera weighing in at 5.47 ounces and measuring a mere 3.76 x 2.46 x 1.22 inches, the Canon PowerShot A1000 IS is quite a lot of camera for the price. 

Also known as Mega Zoom cameras, compact zoom cameras are those which have at least a 10x zoom rating but still have not advanced into the realm of full sized DSLR image makers. The advantages brought to the table by large zoom ranges are clear.  While many pros prefer to avoid long focal lengths because of the clarity and shake issues that always accompany long distance zooming, not every person has the ability or time to close the distance between camera and subject physically and still get the shot.

When you are perched high above the action of a school play or sporting event, it is difficult, if not impossible to get good framing and recognized faces in the shot without a zoom lens.  Sony has done a great job with their offering in the Cyber-Shot DSC-HX9V compact zoom camera.  Priced comfortably around $349.00 this 16MP marvel is a must for feature-philes but might prove a bit much for those who find it hard to make a decision or aren’t familiar with general photography basics.

Photo quality is excellent and this little tyke sport the ability to shoot full HD video at 60p.  While it might be a lot of camera for the price, some might find the massive amounts of features too much too handle.

Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX9V Features and Stats

• Full HD video
• ISO (Auto, 100-3200)
• Shutter Speed Control
• White Balance control

Why the is the Best Compact Zoom Camera?

While the list of features and stats could go on for a while, it is easy to see why the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX9V is on top of the chart as the Best Compact Zoom Camera of 2011.

Extended zoom cameras, also known as super zoom cameras, are top of the line point and shoot style cameras with 20x zoom (or more) capabilities.  This style of camera usually has a large body, full feature sets, and manual and automatic controls.  They are typically less expensive than the average DSLR as well as a bit easier to use right out of the box.  It would be unfair to compare the image quality of such cameras to DSLRs, as they are really apples and oranges.  However, it should not be construed to mean that extended zoom cameras have poor image quality and performance.  This type of camera is a middle of the road camera that falls between entry level DSLRs and high end point and shoot cameras.  Many DSLR aficionados will use this type of camera as a smaller complement to their DSLRs.

Extended zoom offerings are many and it can become a cumbersome task to wade through all models and makes.  However, there is one camera that stood head and shoulders above the rest in this category.  The Panasonic Lumix DCM-FZ100 finds itself as the Best Extended Zoom camera of 2011.

The FZ100, originally released in July of 2010, and came as a welcome update to the FZ40 by Panasonic.  The FZ40 is a superb extended zoom unit itself, but the improvements made by Panasonic in the FZ100 were both needed and well received.  One of the things that gives this camera an edge over the competition is the glass on the camera.  The Lieca DC Vario-Elmarit lens on the front of the FZ100 is top notch glass allowing for clarity and minimal aberration in images.  The zoom capabilities on this unit is a solid and clear 24x allowing for extreme close ups, or the ability to get closer to action than would be otherwise possible.

Video recording abilities also move this camera up the list even further.  The DCM-FZ100 can record full HD 1080i video in the PAL format.  A large 14.1MP MOS image sensor delivers clear, vivid, and sharp images even at full zoom.  Priced affordably at $399.95, the Panasonic Lumix DCM-FZ100 is clearly the Best Extended Zoom Camera of 2011.

Panasonic Lumix DCM-FZ100 Features and Stats

• 14.1 Megapixels MOS Sensor
• Wide Angle 24x Optical Zoom
• 3" Rotating LCD
• Venus Engine Image Processor
• Optical Image Stabilizer
• AVCHD Full-HD Movies
• 11 fps Burst Mode at Full Resolution
• 25mm Leica lens with multiple configurations and options
• External Flash Capable
• Stereo Microphone
• Remote Shutter
• ISO (1600 - 6400)

Why it is the Best Extended Zoom Camera?

The Panasonic Lumix DCM-FZ100 has all the features that most hobbyists want and need.  It will allow room to grow for the budding amateur, high quality photos and videos, ease of use right out of the box, control options for a more creative and hands on approach, and a 24x zoom through high quality Lieca glass propel the DCM-FZ100 to the top of the list.

Since 2010, the market demand for a compact mirrorless camera has been rising.  People are on the lookout for a small compact camera that has many of the features of entry level (or higher) DSLRs without the size or bulk.  When it comes to EVIL (Electronic Viewfinder with Interchangeable Lenses), the image sensor is often the same type as entry level DSLRs, making the images produced by these small but mighty cameras able to stand up with the big boys. 

With a DSLR, there are mirrors to reflect the light coming from the lens up to the optical viewfinder.  Because the image sent to the image sensor would appear backwards to us, a combination of mirrors is used to make the image appear as it should.  Many DSLR owners call this a ‘what you see is what you get’ type of viewfinder.  With a mirrorless camera, the image seen in the viewfinder is created via electronic relay from the image sensor, allowing for a much smaller camera.

The top pick for 2011 is not a new model, and while the newest version of this companies release might be touted as better, it really has no advantages to our pick, which is less expensive than the new shiny model.  The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1 is the Best Compact Mirrorless Camera of 2011. 

Panasonic Lumix DCM-GF1 Features and Stats

• Image Sensor
• Live MOS sensor
• 13.1MP
• Formats (JPG,RAW,MOV,AVCHD)
• AF tracking
• ISO (100-3200)
• 3.0 inch LCD screen
• Digital Zoom (2-4x)

Why it is the Best Compact Mirrorless Camera?

You can pick up a GF1 for around $900, and it would be money well spent.  The GF1 allows almost as much flexibility and control as an entry level DSLR.  Using the same sensor as the large G1 means that images are crisp, clear, and vibrant using the GF1.  The ability to change lenses is a bonus and Panasonic did some real thinking and innovation when they made an adaptor for the GF1 that will allow it to use standard Panasonic lenses.  Micro Four Thirds is an extension of the Four Thirds standard that Leica, Olympus, and Panasonic use one their DSLRs.  When the adaptor ring is used on the GF1, existing Four Thirds lenses can be mounted on the GF1.  Depending upon the type of lens, all computer functions will remain including automatic focus.

All of these features and specs along with the affordable pricing make the Panasonic Lumix DCM-GF1 the Best Compact Mirrorless Camera of 2011.

A number of things must be taken into consideration when choosing the best travel camera.  Not only should the camera be light, small, and easy to store it should also have superb image quality, ease of use, the ability to shoot video, built in flash, ergonomic and intuitive functions, and controls for exposure, shutter speed, and the basic photographic needs.  Of course, one of the biggest concerns for people on their travels is the cost of the camera.  If it is lost, stolen, or damaged the investment should not be in the thousands of dollars.

When looking over the vast offerings of cameras that fit these criteria, more than one camera rose to the challenge.  Unfortunately, only one camera can claim the top listing for Best Travel Camera of 2011.  While the choice might be subjective to some, the Leica V-Lux 30 tops the list in 2011.

Some might think the price is too high for a travel camera, but the features and quality of the V-Lux are hard to beat even in this price range.  The $749.00 price tag might cause some to keep looking.  However, the ability to own a 14.1MP camera with image-stabilization, wideangle 16x zoom lens that also offers 1080i Full HD movie recording (AVCHD format), 10fps continuous shooting (at full resolution), built-in GPS, a 3" touch-sensitive screen, and includes Adobe Photoshop Elements 9 and Adobe Premiere Elements 9 software is a steal at that price point.  Especially for a camera that measures a mere 4.13 x 2.27 x 1.31 inches and weighs a slight 7.72 ounces.

The included software alone would set one back $200.00.  When figured against the total price, that makes the feature and control rich V-Lux 30 a $549.00 offering from Leica.  When placed in this kind of perspective, it is a bit easier to see why the V-Lux 30 topped the list for 2011.

Leica V-Lux 30 Features and Stats

• Leica DC Vario-Elmar 4.3 - 68.8 mm f/3.3-5.9 ASPH
• 24 – 384 mm 35 mm equivalent
• 12 elements / 10 groups
• 4x Digital Zoom
• ISO (100-1600)
• Continuous shooting
• Up to 10fps at max resolution
• LCD display (3.0” TFT-LCD )

Why it is the Leica V-Lux 30 Best Travel Camera?

As you can see, the Leica V-Lux 30 is more camera than most people will ever use, along with the included Adobe software, this camera is a steal at the price.  After looking at the features and controls it should be clear why the Leica V-Lux 30 is the right pick for Best Travel Camera of 2011.