Pixiq

Perhaps you are just getting into photography and want a good entry-level camera that does more than just point and shoot. Perhaps you are a battle-hardened photo pro looking for a lighter piece of gear for casual shooting with family and friends.

If you are looking for a big-bang-for-the-buck camera as a holiday gift this year, you could do much worse than an advanced compact digital camera. These little "pocket rockets" are proving to be as powerful and feature-heavy as some of their bigger DSLR siblings. Here's a handy chart of what we here at Pixiq see as today's best advanced compacts. Enjoy, and share with your 'tog friends!

For my part, it seems like the Lumix wins out. If you want a more in-depth, hands-on review of the Lumix DMC-LX5 vs. the Samsung TL500, check out Peter Burian's post here on Pixiq.

Infographic Designed by Shane Snow.