Credit-crunch compact: Nikon COOLPIX L22

Nikon's COOLPIX L22 is the successor to the best-selling L20 and one of the cheapest compacts you'll find from a respected brand. Despite its low price, the COOLPIX L22 is pretty well-equipped with 12 Megapixels, a 4x optical zoom and generously-sized 3in screen. Sadly there's still no optical or sensor-shift stabilisation at this price, nor much manual control to speak of, but it’s a good choice for those on a tight budget who value simplicity. It also represents a significant and classy step-up from the cheap models aimed at kids if you want to treat the little ones in your life to something a bit more special.

Pros: Inexpensive; simple operation; 3in screen; classy front.
Cons: No image stabilisation; limited control and feedback.
Overall: If this is your budget, the L22 represents your best bet.