Top 10 cameras of November

The good: High-resolution multi aspect ratio image capture; F2.0 optics; highly customizable modes which can be saved; large sensor delivers impressive image quality.

The bad: Unable to capture full-resolution images in 16:9 format; use of lens cap may be an issue to some; bundled RAW image-processing software not up to the job.

The bottom line: The LX3 is a good camera with an excellent feature set that positions it way beyond any conventional point-and-shoot on the retail shelves today.

The good: Compact and light; useful features such as time-lapse mode; options for choosing AF frame size; quick to focus; fast performance.

The bad: Picture quality starts to deterioriate from ISO 400; control ring operation can be cumbersome; no multi-aspect mode.

The bottom line: This advanced compact has a good range of shooting options to keep most shutterbugs occupied, but we think there is still room for improvement in some areas.

The good: 25mm ultra-wide-angle lens with 12x optical zoom; AVCHD compression lets users record longer clips; fast burst mode; above-average image quality.

The bad: No manual exposure control; AVCHD compression produces uncommon file format.

The bottom line: The TZ7 is a good long zoom compact camera that frequent travelers should consider if they want decent picture quality. A pity it doesn't offer manual exposure control.

The good: Stylish design; slim body; packed with useful functions like Hand-held Twilight and Sweep Panorama modes; quick performance.

The bad: Average picture quality with noise showing at ISO 200; inconsistent white balance.

The bottom line: The TX1's slim body and design will appeal to the fashion-conscious crowd, but some users may not like the photo quality.

The good: Flexible LCD; impressive build; good picture quality; snappy performance; plenty of customization options.

The bad: Scroll wheel can be difficult to operate at times; no HD video recording; slightly bulky design may not appeal to some users.

The bottom line: The G11 is an excellentcamera which delivers not just performance but also image quality.

The good: Good quality images even at high ISO; reliable automatic EXR mode switches between different settings accurately; wide dynamic range.

The bad: Boring design; limited manual exposure function; no HD video-recording feature.

The bottom line: Despite minor flaws, we were captivated by the incredible image quality from the F200EXR, considering it is just a point-and-shoot. By far one of the best midrange compacts we've tested.

The good: Very small; simple operation; very good photo, HD movie quality; HDMI-out.

The bad: No optical zoom in Movie mode; mixed performance.

The bottom line: One of the best slim point-and-shoots available, the Canon Digital Ixus 120 IS nonetheless falls short of greatness in performance and photo quality.

The good: Very decent picture quality, even in low lighting situations; useful Pro Low-Light and Focus modes; compact chassis; good color reproduction.

The bad: Uninspiring camera design; shooting specifications not on par with competitors.

The bottom line: If you can forgo the shooter's boring design and lack of HD video recording, the F70EXR has a lot to offer.

The good: Well-designed; several fun, useful features; good low-light and overall performance.

The bad: Mixed photo quality.

The bottom line: The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX1 is a great, fast-performing snapshot camera that falters on photo quality.

The good: Front LCD well-implemented for self-portraits and more; classy-looking; fast performance.

The bad: Battery life could be better; front LCD unresponsive at times; picture quality deteriorates at ISO 400.

The bottom line: The ST550 is a breath of fresh air to the otherwise stagnant compact camera segment, and the unique front LCD serves a greater function than just for self-portraits.