Olympus E-450

If size matters the compact stature of the Olympus E-450 will appeal, but despite its modest dimensions it still packs plenty of features.

The Olympus E-450 has a 10Mp sensor, ISO 100-1600 range, and a bright and clear 2.7in LCD with Live View that features both contrast-detect AF and the more accurate phase detect variety. There's a good range of both point-and-shoot and creative exposure modes, a choice of three Art Filters, a Dust Reduction system and continuous shooting at 3.5fps, too.
If you’re a fan of flash, the advanced wireless flash capabilities will grab your attention, but on the downside, there’s no image stabilisation, and the 3 AF targets are so close together it’s almost pointless selecting between them. Handling’s not great either, as the AF hunts a little in low contrast and there’s no handgrip to speak of, so those with larger hands may find the body too small. The view through the viewfinder is rather cramped and tunnel-like, making composition awkward.

WE LIKE...
Compact size
Live View
3.5fps

WE DON’T LIKE...
3-point AF system
No Image stabilisation