Video: Most point-and-shoots let you record videos at 640-by-480 and/or 320-by-240 resolutions. The video quality often isn’t as good as a dedicated camcorder, but can do in a pinch. Dirt-cheap models don’t usually offer this feature.

Often, you can download the recorded videos to iPhoto, and then use them in iMovie for editing. Some cameras may require a QuickTime software plug-in before you can watch the video.

Our favorite point-and-shoot cameras

The Samsung NV11 impresses with its ability to produce superior color quality that’s rarely seen in a point-and-shoot camera. Mix in superb battery life, a nice selection of shooting modes and manual controls, and an easy-to-use interface, and you have a great camera to take with you wherever you go. You will need to install the or the QuickTime plug-in if you want to play the NV11's recorded video. . [$350 (); ]

Pentax Optio A40