Festive five: Hybrid cameras

 
1/5
18 December 2012

Compact system cameras are a cross between a point and shoot and a DSLR — small enough to carry around easily but with interchangeable lenses for superior shots. Great gifts for experts who need a more portable option or amateurs who want to take the next step up. Here are our top five ...

Olympus PEN Mini E-PM2 1442

One of the smallest compact system cameras around, making it super-convenient. The red version is a relief in a market of mostly black cameras. £499.99 with 14-42mm kit lens, shop.olympus.co.uk

Fujifilm X-E1

Fuji’s second interchangeable lens camera gives you the same image quality as its well-received X-Pro1 camera but is smaller, lighter and has a more retro look. £1,149.95 with 18-55mm kit lens, jessops.com

Panasonic Lumix GX1

This isn’t the smallest CSC but it’s aimed at the more advanced amateur looking for very high image quality. It’s also good for shooting full HD video. £579.95 with 14-42mm kit lens, johnlewis.com

Sony NEX-6

Sony’s newest CSC is wifi-enabled so you can share your pictures immediately. It also has photo-editing apps. This is the option for pros wanting to minimise their gear. £819 with 16-50mm kit lens, jessops.com

Samsung NX1000

Perfect for those looking for a first step up from their point-and-shoot. It’s slim and light and can be linked to your smartphone, which can then be used as a remote viewfinder. £399.99 with 20-50mm kit lens, currys.co.uk

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