Worth the wait. The E-3 matches pro SLR capabilities with the ease of use of an entry-level cam

The brand and the price could prove this camera’s downfall. Who’d buy a Samsung when you can get Pentax for less?

Excellent performance and features, but at a price that’s too high

So why is this so different from the outgoing Pentax *ist DS? The fact is that it’s just as good and yet also cheaper. Joy.

A superzoom without stabiliser is like a car without suspension. Prepare for a rocky ride

The E-510 has a barrowful of features and is a joy to use but we miss the size and convenience of the cheaper E-410

Olympus’ Four Thirds imaging system comes of age in a classy compact SLR that makes the rest look ordinary

An older camera, and expensive in its day, but the impressive image quality and choice of optical and LCD viewfinders make it worth a look for DSLR hunters

Due for replacement or some hefty price cuts. The E-300 takes good shots but its rivals take better

A sterling budget DSLR with a great range of controls and superb high ISO performance

Forget the low-ish pixel-count, this camera has the lot: handling, features and image quality. Add that to the high-powered battery, good for a claimed 2000 shots, and you have a real belter

A true pro camera that slots in nicely between the flagship Canons

Amazing images and great fun, but this quirky cam is way too pricey for most

Even at £900 this is a bit of a bargain for a semi-pro camera but our tip is to wait for the imminent arrival of the Dynax 5D/lens kit package

A pint-sized camera that packs a punch, with consistently good performance in all conditions

A good camera at the price, but perhaps not as great as you thought it was going to be. Its shortcomings will nag at you like an old fishwife

If you can afford one and can find one, don’t think twice about it. If not, rent one from a specialist outlet for phenomenal results

Forget gold plated and diamond encrusted – if you've got three grand to spare and don't mind weighty snappers, this is the camera to blow it on

The new Nikon D90, due to hit shelves in September, boasts unique 720p movie HD capabilities, a much improved sensor and surprisingly, a GPS option.

Forget budget DSLR, this is for serious photography. Extravagant in almost every way, the D700 is superbly responsive and produces stunning images