Cameras under $500

Boasting a slim and compact design, the Kodak PIXPRO FZ53 is the pocketable point-and-shoot camera that's perfect for everyday use. The camera is able to deliver high-quality photos and HD 720p video quality at 30 frames per second thanks to the 16.15 megapixel CCD sensor. Whether you're travelling across the world or out with the family, you'll certainly appreciate the impressively slender frame that weighs just 106g. Outfitted with a rechargeable lithium-ion battery that can be charged in-camera, the PIXPRO FZ53 delivers approximately 200 shots per charge so you don't miss any precious moments. Coming in a bold blue finish, this lightweight body makes for the perfect go-anywhere camera. Don't let the slim form factor fool you, however, as the camera packs a 5x Optical Zoom that allows you to jump in the middle of the action. Elsewhere, the rear 2.7-inch LCD display features a easy-to-use interface for composing your shot, reviewing the results and managing settings. Tell your story with the Kodak PIXPRO FX53.

Combining the thrill of physical prints with the convenience of digital capture, the Polaroid Snap Instant Digital Camera revives the nostalgia and charm of classic Polaroid film. Outfitted with a 1/3.2"" 10MP CMOS sensor, this handheld camera provides you with a simple yet effective setup that instantly created 2"" x 3"" photos. With 6 preset shooting modes, this camera automatically adjusts to your environment to provide the best possible lighting and exposure conditions. Whether you find yourself indoors or shooting at night, the built-in auto flash means that you're always equipped to handle low-light conditions. Professional photographers and amateur enthusiasts will both enjoy the Self-Timer that's ideal for capturing the perfect selfie or group photo. Complete with a gorgeous red finish, this pocketable camera weighs just 381g for an effortless carry. Elsewhere, the intuitive controls and easy-to-understand buttons mean that you're shooting experience will always be a simple one. The Polaroid Snap Instant Digital Camera lets you capture and share memories on the spot.

New and improved, the Polaroid Snap revives the nostalgia and fun of classic Polaroid film cameras in a refreshing manner. Led by a 1/3.2"" 10MP CMOS image sensor, the compact camera instantly delivers delightful 2"" x 3"" photographs. Taking less than a minute to develop, these bite-sized images use ZINK Zero Ink technology to create prints that are smudge-proof and long-lasting. When you want to capture that priceless group selfie or once-in-a-lifetime solo shot, you'll appreciate the helpful self-timer function that gives you ten seconds to strike the perfect pose. There's also a useful Photo Booth mode that adds to the fun by capturing 6 consecutive images in 10 seconds. Lightweight and pocketable, the Polaroid Snap was designed with top-notch portability in mind. Between weekend celebrations with friends or unforgettable family memories, this instant camera is ready to go wherever you go, so you never have to miss a special moment ever again.

Designed around everyday needs for portability, the Ricoh CX1 is the compact point-and-shoot camera for those who are constantly on the go. Weighing just 180g, the CX1 features a lightweight and slim design that you won't even notice after you slip it in your pocket. Not only does this camera offer top-notch portability, but it doesn't miss a beat when it comes to quality either thanks to a 9.29MP CMOS sensor that delivers high-resolution photographs in full clarity and detail. Whether you're in the back row of a formal event or observing wildlife in nature, the 7.1x Optical Zoom allows you to remain in the heart of the action at all times. This functions perfectly in tandem with the sensor-shift image stabilization system, which is constantly working to ensure your shots are steady and blur-free. Elsewhere, the built-in 3-inch LCD screen features an easy-to-use interface so you can breeze through any framing, reviewing and adjusting with ease.

Equal parts proficient and compact, the Kodak PIXPRO FZ152 will amaze you with its striking simplicity. Outfitted with a 16.15MP CCD sensor, this slender camera is able to deliver remarkable images that boast a maximum resolution of 4608 x 3456 pixels, complete with vivid colours and crystal-clear details. If you think a moment is best-suited for a movie, switch to video mode with the push of a button and you're able to record in Full HD 1080p. Why settle for anything less? Whether you want to see your child's face on the graduation stage or focus in on architectural details, the superb 15x Optical Zoom allows you to get next to the action, even when you're far away. This works in tandem with the intelligent Image Stabilization system that ensures steady recording and blur-free footage. From beautiful natural landscapes to everyday street scenes, you'll appreciate the 180º Panorama feature that allows you to effortlessly fit everything within the frame.

From spontaneous family moments to heart-stopping natural landscapes and everything in between, the Panasonic SDR-H100 is the handheld camcorder that's ready to capture all of life's unforgettable moments. When you're afar, the superb 35x Optical Zoom allows you to key in on all the action in brilliant clarity and detail and without any image degradation. This works in tandem with the built-in Image Stabilization system to ensure that your footage remains free from any unwanted shake or blur. When you're shooting outdoors, you'll enjoy the Wind Noise Canceller that automatically detects and suppresses noise caused by the wind. Elsewhere the 33mm wide-angle lens covers a vast subject area with enhanced clarity and depth, whereas the 80GB HDD allows you to effortlessly record up to 30 hours of video footage. Boasting a slender body frame that weighs just 273g, the Panasonic SDR-H100 optimizes comfort and portability for long periods of time, so you never miss a moment ever again.

The Kodak AZ252 is the versatile point-and-shoot camera that's always ready to immortalize life's unforgettable moments. Featuring a 16MP CCD sensor, the AZ252 is able to capture high-resolution still images that boast up to 4608 x 3456 pixels. When it comes to video, this compact bridge camera can record in HD 720p so you can enjoy those precious moments in full motion. When you need to get into the action, the exceptional 25x Optical Zoom allows you to get up-close and personal without sacrificing an inch on quality. Never again worry about unsteady footage due to shaky hands or filming while walking thanks to the intuitive optical image stabilization system. Between Sport, Fireworks, Fish Eye and more, the AZ252 provides you with 22 modes at your fingertips that deal with the technicalities of your environment and optimize your settings, so you can keep your focus on enjoying the moment. Elsewhere, the 3-inch LCD screen allows you to effortlessly review and adjust as you go along.

Designed with everyday photography in mind, the Samsung L L10 is an easy-to-use digital camera that's ready to thrive in just about any situation. Led by a 8.3MP CCD sensor, this versatile point-and-shoot is able to take high-quality photograph that feature sharp detail and vivid colours, even when creating large-sized prints. Between the 3x Optical Zoom, Digital Image Stabilization system and Auto Red Eye Fix, the L L10 is equipped with a wealth of impressive technologies and thoughtful features that make the day-to-day shooting experience that much smoother. Creating family memories? You'll appreciate the advanced Face Detection technology that detects up to nine faces and automatically adjusts focus and exposure to deliver the best possible image quality. Whether you're framing your shot, reviewing images or adjusting settings, the 2.5-inch LCD screen makes navigation simple and easy by providing optimal brightness based on your surrounding lighting conditions. Elsewhere, the slim camera features an all-aluminum casing that provides outstanding durability, style and comfort.

Equal parts durable and portable, the Fujifilm FinePix XP80 is the rugged digital camera that's always up for an adventure. Whether it's wildlife photography, family outings or local sporting events, this compact camera is equipped with a 16.4MP CMOS sensor, enabling you to capture high-resolution photographs that reach up to 4608 x 3456 pixels. Amateur enthusiasts and professionals alike will appreciate the high-speed Burst Mode that lets you capture up to 10 frames per second, so you can walk away with the exact facial expression you're looking for. At the flick of the button, record those unbelievable moments in Full HD 1080p at 60 frames per second for movies you'll be bragging about for generations to come. Whether it's priceless group photos or tough outdoor conditions, the FinePix XP80 allows you to remotely take photos, adjust settings and record video from your phone or tablet, while a single push of the WiFi button transfers your productions to your smart device for instant sharing with friends and family. These imaging capabilities are housed with a compact and lightweight camera body that weighs a mere 179g. Not only is it easy to carry around, but the Fujifilm FinePix XP80 also waterproof, freezeproof, shockproof and dustproof for maximum protection during your adventures.

Robust, stylish and versatile, the Kodak PIXPRO FZ201 is the perfect travel camera to go anywhere you go. Though the PIXPRO FZ201 may be compact and slender, don't let the body frame fool you. This lightweight camera packs a 16MP CCD sensor that's capable of taking photographs of up to 4608 x 3456 pixels. These lifelike colours, sharp details and crystal-clarity continues to video, where this compact camera is able to record in HD 720p quality at the touch of a button. Seasoned professionals, budding students and amateur enthusiasts will all appreciate the wealth of features that has you equipped for all shooting conditions you may encounter, such as 20x Optical Zoom, built-in flash and optical image stabilization. Whether it's a stunning sunset or dazzling skyline, the advanced Panorama Capture enables you to beautifully capture those once-in-a-lifetime moments that you'll remember for years to come. Between viewing, composing and adjusting, the 3-inch LCD screen adjusts to all lighting conditions so you always end up with the exact shot you want.

Boasting a slender and portable design, the Kodak EasyShare C1530 is the pocketable point-and-shoot camera that's perfect for all your everyday photography needs. Outfitted with a 1/2.3"" 14MP CCD sensor, this compact camera is capable of delivering high-quality photographs with ease. If you think the moment calls for video, rest assured that the EasyShare C1530 can record SD movies at 30 fps. Elsewhere, the blur reduction image stabilization system is constantly working to ensure that your photos and videos are free from any camera shake or movement, whereas the 3x Optical Zoom gives you some creative flexibility when it comes to distance. Both the built-in flash and native sensitivity range that extends from ISO 80 to 1000 allow you to adjust to different lighting environments on-the-fly. Whether you're a travelling professional or you're just getting started, you'll appreciate the featherweight body frame that weighs in at just 180g and makes it easy to carry around for long periods of time.