The G1 X is Canon's first compact camera to feature a large, 4:3 aspect, 14.3-megapixel CMOS sensor measuring 18.7mm x 14mm — similar in height to the APS-C sensors used in EOS DSLR models (for comparison, most compact cameras have sensors around 2/3 inch). This camera also uses Canon's new Digit 5 processors and has an ISO range from 100 to 12,800...

Leica has introduced the Leica V-LUX 3, a new compact digital camera with a DC Vario-Elmarit 4.5mm to 108mm, f/2.8, 5.2 ASPH, 24-fold, super-telephoto zoom lens. With a 12.1-megapixel CMOS image sensor, the V-LUX can shoot 1080p HD video at 60 fps. Also, the entire 24-fold zoom range is available, even in video mode. The only place where the resolution decreases....

One of the 19 cameras that Fujifilm announced at the beginning of the year, the FinePix HS30EXR is a higher-end, compact superzooms. Although not compatible with interchangeable lenses, the HS30EXR does offer some SLR-like features, including 16-megapixel resolution. Improving on previous models, the HS30EXR now comes with improved ISO capabilities (it advertises 30 percent less digital noise), a 3-inch tilting LCD screen and 30x optical zoom...

With the new H-series, Sony has released a lineup of five new consumer-level, superzoom compact cameras — all of which feature image stabilization and HD video. At entry level, the H90 model houses a 16.1-megapixel sensor, 16x optical zoom lens and 720p HD video capabilities. The HX30V and HX200V models each feature an ultra-thin 20x optical lens and 18.2-megapixel resolution. Additionally, the HX30V comes with WiFi capabilities...

Nikon has released two new CoolPix compact cameras, the P510 and the P310. With the P510, Nikon focused on the zoom features. The camera houses a 42x optical Zoom-Nikkor ED glass lens that can shoot from a wide 24mm to a 1,000mm focal range. Nikon strove to boost low-light shooting capabilities with the P310, giving it a 16.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, an ISO range up to 3200 and a maximum f/1.8 aperture...

Pentax has unveiled its new Optio WG-2 and Optio WG-2 GPS, two beefed-up outdoor cameras. Both of these rugged, waterproof, dustproof and shock-resistant models have 16-megapixel resolution and full 1080p HD movie recording capability. Other improvements include added stability underwater (users can take images up to depths of 40 feet), from shock (can sustain drops from up to 5 feet and from up to 200 pounds of force), and from cold (down to 10 degrees C below zero)...

Fujifilm has released two bridge cameras this year with the FinePix SL300 and SL240. The SL240 shares most features with the SL300 — primarily resolution, a 3-inch LCD screen, a hot shoe and a 7-meter range internal flash. Like the EXR models, the SL300 and SL240 offer 30x and 24x optical zoom, respectively, although they both have a lower, 14-megapixel resolution sensor...

Canon has announced a new PowerShot lineup (the ELPH 530 HS, ELPH 320 HS, SX260 HS and D20), which includes added Wi-Fi capabilities and improved optical zoom and durability. Of the four, the two ELPH models are the only ones equipped with Wi-Fi, which allows users to quickly share, upload or back up images via their Canon iMAGE GATEWAY account. From there, they can post to social media platforms or Apple devices...

Packed with a 24x wide angle zoom lens (a 25-600mm range), the new Olympus SZ-31MR iHS camera packs a wide zoom range into a relatively affordable compact camera. Like its predecessor, the SZ-31MR iHS can capture 1080p HD video and 16-megapixel still images simultaneously. Features new to this model include a touch-panel LCD and...