Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX150 digital camera

Cool Yule Rating: 5

Price: $399.95.

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Description: Panasonic manages to pack an amazing 14 megapixels into a sturdy, compact camera that weighs only 6.3 ounces. The Lumix sports a 22mm wide-angle lens and a pretty impressive 3.6X optical zoom, not to mention a super-zoom that brings it up to 7.7X.

This model strikes just the right mix between ease of use for the point-and-click crowd and bells and whistles for the serious camera buff. Some digital cameras feel like they're one step above those plastic disposable ones, but the Lumix feels solid in your hands, with metal, rather than plastic, controls. The interface was easy to understand and use. Added to that are some nice features, such as a toggle wheel that lets you control the zoom, so it's not all or nothing. The included PHOTOfunSTUDIO software is also intuitive and easy to use. With a rechargeable battery, a variety of connectivity options and an SD memory card slot, this camera can handle all of your photographic needs.

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