TIME's Best Inventions of 2008

Canon PowerShot A590 IS

This 8-megapixel camera has 19 shooting modes and dozens of advanced features, but the best thing about it is how easy it is to use. Put the camera in its fully automatic mode and it fixes blurring caused by shaky hands, eliminates red-eye and even compensates for poor lighting. Don't worry about adjusting lenses or shifting modes; just decide whether you want the flash on or off, and snap away. This Canon makes sure all you have to do is point and press a button. The A590 is light, comfortable to hold and consistently earns praise from online reviewers and professional camera critics. If you're stuck choosing between dozens of cheap models, this Canon is a stellar high-quality, low-cost option.
Price: $149.99 list
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