Best Point and Shoot Over $200

The Canon ELPH 500 HS is basically a 'Lite' version of an advanced compact like the Canon S95 or Olympus XZ-1. The sensor is smaller -- 1/2.3”, like most point-and-shoots -- but it's a backside illuminated CMOS sensor (like the ELPH 100 above), capable of relatively clear low-light shots. More importantly, it's paired with an f/2.0 lens, which makes low-light shooting even easier. All the other trappings are here too -- speedy performance and continuous shooting, 1080p video, and all of Canon's fun filters and effects. The interface is entirely touch-based, and a mediocre one at that, which is sure to deter some prospective buyers. If that’s the case, the Nikon P300 is another worthwhile option. It’s also a CMOS/bright-lens combo, though the $329 price tag is a little bit steep. And for the sleekest, most affordable (though photographically least impressive) of the bunch, check out the Sony WX10. It sports a somewhat bloated 16 megapixel CMOS sensor, which has taken some flack for its performance in other new cameras, but the f/2.4 lens should mitigate some of those issues. Like most Sony cameras, it’s packed to the gills with “extra” features too.