Why it's best: Canon continues to dominate the ultra-zoom segment, and has fortified its position by extending the 'HS System' to the SX40 HS. The 'high sensitivity' 12.1-megapixel CMOS image sensor delivers excellent image quality in both well-lit and low light conditions, and the clear 35x optical zoom lens allows long-distance close-up shots. The SX40 HS also boasts top-notch video capabilities, with full 1080p HD capture and stereo audio.... Read Full Review
Why it's a best pick: Nikon's Coolpix P510 boasts a critical feature that sets it apart from the ultra-zoom crowd: 42x optical zoom. This is by far the longest zoom range offered on any current ultra-zoom camera, and is useful for anything from close-ups to landscape photography. Still image and video quality both leave very little to be desired, thanks to the high quality optics and well-sorted image processing.... Read Full Review
Why it's a best pick: The Cyber-shot DSC-HX200V represents an incremental upgrade over the previous DSC-HX100V, with a slight bump in image sensor resolution and minor exterior modifications. Image quality remains superb despite the added pixels, and Sony's class-leading HD video mode puts the HX200V at the forefront for traveling videographers.... Read Full Review
Why it's a best pick: The Fujifilm FinePix HS30EXR offers superior image quality and low light performance, and its Fujinon 30x optical zoom lens provides plenty of versatility. Most of the features exist to improve image quality by taking advantage of the unique EXR image sensor, and various filter effects are included as well. If you want a RAW-capable ultra-zoom camera with dSLR-style controls, the Fujifilm HS30EXR is an excellent choice.... Read Full Review
Why it's a best pick: The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX9V may be an older model at this point, but that hasn't stopped us from recommending this highly capable camera. This pocket-sized compact camera houses a 16x optical zoom lens and a 16-megapixel 'Exmor R' image sensor. Image quality is sharp at all zoom ranges, and low-light performance is commendable despite slightly heavy-handed noise suppression. The HX9V excels in movie mode, with full 1080p resolution at 60 fps and top-quality video capture.... Read Full Review
Hi Jeff b.,
I was wondering when you were going to review the Panasonic Lumix DCM-FZ100? it's been out since at least July and it has some very interesting specs. It would be interesting to see if it manages to topple the Canon PowerShot SX20. From what I have seen in other reviews, it appears to be the new winner in the Ultra Zoom category. What are your thoughts on this?
i WNAT TO KNOW THE CRITERIA YOU USED TO RANK THOSE 5 CAMERAS. wHAT ARE THE CONS AND PROS THAT EACH ONE HAS.
THANK YOU VERY MUCH.
I have always liked Olympus Ultra Zooms, I just wish they would get on the playing field and start using SD Memory Cards. The Proprietary ones their cameras take are useless IMO, and expensive!
At least the SP-570 UZ now has an adapter to take Micro SD.