best compact digital camera w/zoom

[ermont]

I use a Nikon 3000. For less than $100 it does a great job.

[sticbow]

ZS5   leica lens...amazing camera for the price....

[George Vernon]

Canon 2x230 IS works well.  I think it does better low light pics than the Nikon s8100 or 9100 series.  It also uses optical instead of sensor stabilization to provide less blur at higher zoom settings and low light.