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Dawn of the Megazooms


With pocket-size point-and-shoot cameras peaking, camera makers have emerged from their R&D labs with a new generation of hybrids: mutants with superior vision. These cameras blend the simple controls of pocket models with high-quality optics and advanced features typically offered only on digital single-lens reflex units. The unfortunate moniker given to these cameras? Megazooms.

These units' defining features are larger lenses and high-power optical zooms. You also get manual control over ISO settings, aperture, and shutter speed. Don't expect to slip one of these behemoths into a pocket. These chunkier models fit in a camera bag or camping pack.

We tested six newer megazooms, from Canon, Casio, Fuji, Olympus, Panasonic, and Sony (the Canon is actually a 2007 model; the company hasn't yet announced an updated version for 2008). Another contender, Nikon's new Coolpix P80, was released too late to make our tests; an online review is planned.





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