If you want everything in one package, the Konica Minolta DiMage A1 is your camera. Weighing just 1.4 pounds (with battery), the A1 looks, feels, and operates very much like a conventional SLR camera. Boot and recycle times are quick, but the shutter lag is a little more noticeable than with the other cameras we tested.

The A1 has several features that make it a pleasure to use, including automatic switching between the LCD and electronic viewfinder, a real-time histogram, and an optional grid overlay that helps avoid tilted pictures. The 28- to 200-mm lens (35-mm equivalent) is one of the best we've seen on a prosumer camera, and Minolta's innovative Anti-Shake technology compensates for camera movement by moving the image sensor.

Unlike the similar lens on the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-F828, the a1 showed little distortion or color fringing at any setting. Image quality was generally very good in our testing, though some sensor noise was evident, even at the slowest ISO setting.

The A1's relatively small size and light weight make it an attractive alternative for those who want SLR features in a light, compact package.

Summary: The A1 is a compact package that borders on SLR power but is much lighter and easier to carry.