A question about digital cameras?

Question

So what's the best camera that's under $300 for someone who's an amateur at photography? I was thinking a Nikon Coolpix but I read a lot of bad reviews and though of getting a Sony Cybershot. I'm looking for something that has a nice exterior design, something that can take pictures fairly fast and something that has good picture quality. And for anyone that has used either a Coolpix S550 or S600, or any of the 8 mega pixel (or higher) Sony Cybershot, could you tell me about your experience with it? Thank you!

Answer 1

Canon S5 IS.

Answer 2

The Nikon P80 is probably one of the best cameras in your sub $300 range, though for about $25 more you could also consider the Canon S5.

I do not find Sony Cameras to be all that good, plus you have the annoying factor of having to use their proprietary, overpriced MemorySticks which you can't use in anything but a Sony product.