Sony Cyber-shot TF1
$200 | 10m waterproof | 1.5m | -10°C
The price leader with a particularly compact form, the Cyber-shot offers plenty of features, including image stabilization, panoramic shooting mode and a magnifying mode. But on the whole, it produces poorer-quality pictures than the other cameras. While the others record full 1080p video, the TF1 records 720p. The relatively slow image processor makes Sony’s product inappropriate for capturing action shots. Fifth place
Fujifilm XP200
$300 | 15m waterproof | 2m shockproof | -10°C
Early reviews praise the very new XP200’s long feature list, which includes video editing and 3D image generation. It also has an extra grip for wet hands and can be operated with ski gloves on. The XP200’s anti-glare LCD screen, high-definition video recording and 16-megapixel lens impresses as well. But at press time, few users have had the chance to assess this product’s image quality. Fourth place… for now
Olympus TG-2
$380 | 15m waterproof | 2.1m shockproof |-10°C
The TG-2 offers professional-grade camera options: the ability to swap out the standard lens for telephoto or fisheye lenses, and lens technology that enables photographers to capture ultra-sharp and colour-rich pictures. It’s also the only camera in this comparison rated to withstand crushing. But given its price, the TG-2 should come with a cap for its high-end lens. It’s also hard to use with gloves on. Third place
Canon PowerShot D20
$310 | 10m waterproof | 1.5m shockproof | -10°C
The only camera here that features wind suppression technology, making it the best of the contenders for recording video in blustery spots like high hiking trails. But users say it produces only “good” quality still and video images because the three-inch LCD screen doesn’t always accurately reflect the colours and sharpness of the actual shot. Still, the D20 offers numerous features for a reasonable price. Second place
Nikon Coolpix AW110
$350 | 18m waterproof | 2m shockproof | -10°C
BEST DEAL!
With its metal casing, this little snapper looks and feels especially sturdy. It offers numerous features, including GPS and mapping software, a compass, motion detection (particularly useful for action shots) and a panoramic mode. Users say the three-inch organic LED screen is easy to see in direct sunlight and the images that the 16-megapixel lens produces are high quality. Its menus are easy to navigate, even while wearing gloves. Nikon’s product isn’t the least expensive option and isn’t as high-tech as some of the other cameras, but it presents the best balance of features, price and performance. First place