They may look big and complicated, but a digital slr is just as easy to use and takes far better pictures than a pocket digicam

Rarely has a new camera received as much attention as the EOS 300D, released amid a flurry of excitement among photographers and a massive marketing campaign. Why the fuss? Because it's a true 6.3-megapixel digital SLR for under $2,000 including lens. It sounds expensive in the context of the cameras in this month's digital cameras Labs, but the previous generation of several models in that test were nudging a grand when they were released.

The Olympus PEN E-P1 may look like a throwback to retro photography, but it’s expensive and flawed. However, it's beautiful image quality renders almost impossible to dislike.

High performance with a matching price tag.

2D graphics speed has been a non-issue for some years, and the demand for analog image quality is also waning in the move to digital TFTs, all of which means that Matrox's reputation for analog engineering is now a moot point for most users.

A beautiful example of high technology, but we have reservations about the ultimate quality of images.

More expensive than its direct competition, but thanks to its brilliant features the D80 is money well spent.

A brilliantly implemented live-view mode and high specs don’t justify the extra price over its sibling

The aggressive price and Nikon design know-how mean there’s still a place for the D40

For a DSLR that does everything an amateur is ever likely to want, with a terrifyingly cheap price tag, look no further.

The 450D’s superb sensor makes it the best choice if quality is your priority. It doesn't beat the Sony A200 for value, but for the best quality below $1500 the 450D has the edge.

A superbly easy-to-use and feature-laden compact camera that’s well worth the price.

A superbly easy-to-use and feature-laden compact camera that’s well worth the price. Same titanium shell as before, with a lowlight ability.

Canon’s SLR fails to make the enormous splash of its predecessors, but it’s still a great camera in its own right.

Fantastic looks and comprehensive features Lightroom is a winner for improving workflow efficiency.

The A330 is a competent, fully featured and easy to use DSLR, but a backward step in some respects.

A great combination of new features and the usual Nikon image and build quality make this a superb camera.

A feature-rich SLR at a good price. If you can live with the weight and design quirks, that is

Pentax enthusiasts will be more than happy, but others may find it overwhelming

Not the pinnacle of image quality, but superbly compact with plenty of neat features