Most point-and-shoot cameras have a midsize LCD preview screen and short zoom lens that brings you slightly closer to the action. That's about to change.

This year, the hottest compact cameras will have much larger zooms and preview screens and will be able to withstand abuse and shoot in low-light situations with better quality. They'll cost more, but at an average of $350 to $450, you'll pay a lot less than for an entry-level digital SLR, which starts at around $700.