Why it's best: The Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS3 is unmistakably a rugged camera, with its rough-and-tumble styling and bright colored body options. The 12.1-megapixel image sensor sheds some resolution compared to the unit found in the TS3's predecessor, and offers slightly higher picture quality as a result. This is also one of the toughest cameras on sale today, with waterproofing good for dives down to 40 feet and shockproofing that can withstand drops from 6.6 feet up. Other neat features include built-in GPS for geo-tagging photos, and 1080p movie capture that can also be used underwater.... Read Full Review
Why it's a best pick: The Olympus TG-810 certainly looks the part of a tough, rugged camera, and its capabilities back up the promises of the design. The TG-810 can be submerged in up to 33 feet of water, and is toughened against drops and crushing. Image quality is good for the class, but the 14 megapixel image sensor can cause noise sooner than you would expect.... Read Full Review
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Why it's a best pick: The Pentax Optio WG-1 wouldn't look out of place in a gym bag full of sports gear, but the unconventional design has no effect on the ruggedness of this camera. The WG-1 can be submerged in up to 33 feet of water, and is one of the few cameras available that can withstand being crushed as well. The LED lights around the lens provides illumination for macro shooting, but the WG-1's softer image quality is a let-down compared to the rest.... Read Full Review
Why it's a best pick: The Canon PowerShot D10 proves that you don’t need to sacrifice performance for ruggedness. With a simple user interface, great image quality, and rugged design that’s waterproof, freezeproof, and shockproof, the camera is a great companion for vacations and underwater adventures.... Read Full Review
Why it's a best pick: Although the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX10 looks strikingly similar to the other 'T-series' compacts, this is the only one that will survive a 5-foot drop or a trip into a pool. The 16.2-megapixel Exmor-R image sensor and Carl Zeiss lens produces excellent results in both still photography and HD video capture, but the touchscreen-based interface can become unresponsive at times when the camera is taken underwater. The Sony TX10 is the style-conscious choice amongst rugged cameras, and is the only one of five listed here that doesn't draw attention to itself outside of rough use.... Read Full Review
