For each model, we look up as many reviews as possible. We take each conclusion and translate it into a percentage scale. The translation is based on the review site's rating system and some subjective editing to remove factors that have little relevance. For example, if a site removed points for a camera not having a feature and does not remove points for another camera of the same class not having the same feature, an adjustment is made when translating to the common scale. Then the ratings are averaged together. This way we can add one 'Above Average' with one 'Excellent' with one '8.6' and one 'Dave's pick' and come up with an average rating. Finally, the ratings are translated into a 4-point scale relative to each camera class or size. The rating scale is, from best to worst: Excellent, Good, Average and Poor. Keep in mind that since the ratings are relative to the camera class, a good DSLR will most likely produce better picture than an Excellent ultra-compact camera.

There are many excellent digital cameras which have been discontinued but are still available from many sources such as clearance stores and auctions. These cameras can provide very interesting price points for their performance. Otherwise, it may have just been discontinued and we did not have time to react. Also some companies discontinue models in different regions of the globe at different times. For example, a model no longer available in America may still be available in Asia.

Most likely we did not get around to it. They may be other factors which do not make it worth while for this camera to be reviewed here. We are aiming to educate people mostly new to digital photography and we will generally not rate products not aimed at this market.

Not until it takes better pictures! We don't cover this class of device at this time. Same thing goes for you video camera, your laptop, you MP3 player and your pen-camera.

You're probably not as picky as most people but you probably would be happier with a camera which we rated better. The good news is that today's 'Poor' cameras are much better than most cameras of a few years ago. It makes it harder to go completely wrong. Since our ratings are averaged from other ratings, we're less wrong than other sites!

You're probably more picky than most people or perhaps you have special needs. The good news is that since our ratings are averaged from other ratings, we're less wrong than other sites!

This is our term to described cameras that are nearly identical. In most cases sister cameras all use the same lens and sensor. Sister models have the same features and are expected to have the same performance and characteristics as each other. Camera buyers should pay attention to this if they can't find the camera they want for the price they are willing to pay. It is common for digital camera manufacturers to release very similar models over time. Differences already seen include different size LCDs, different branding, button layout and power source.

This is our term for a digital camera designed to replace another camera model of the same manufacturer. These cameras are generally similar but some things have significantly changed. Frequently replacement models improve on major features such as resolution and optical zoom. It is quite common for features to degrade or to be removed. Many manufacturers use this strategy to reduce costs or increase differentiation between product lines. Degradation already seen include diminished battery life, removal of some manual controls and change to a more expensive memory type.

It is somewhat arbitrary, but we use thickness. Ultra-compact cameras are 1" thick or less. Compact cameras are between 1.1" and 2" thick. Medium cameras are between 2.1" and 3" thick. Large cameras are deeper than 3".

The assessment section is where neocamera describes its recommendation (or not) for the given camera. We also try to point out there alternates depending on specific needs. Special features of a camera can also be high-lighted there.

Simple, because most other cameras are better. Our scale has only four steps but we do try to fill it out. Some sites have a point scale from 1 to 10 but never give less than a 7. When we translate this into our point scale, a score of 7 maps to a Poor.

Because our abilities to read minds is limited by distance. To let us know you question, you can email support@neocamera.com. If your question is frequently asked it will eventually appear here, but first we'll try to answer by email as soon as possible.