Christmas gifts on a budget: Canon's A3000

Two years ago, a 10-megapixel digital camera would have cost you €200. Today, you can get it for as cheap as €50.

For €72, Canon is offering a good entry-level camera (the A3000) that takes really decent shots. The A3000 is noteworthy because it doesn't rely on a clatter of disposable AA batteries, like similar entry-level devices.

Instead, the 10-megapixel model has a rechargeable battery. It can also shoot videos (in standard definition) and sports a nice 2.7 inch colour screen viewer, anti-shake technology and face-detection (up to nine people per shot). As entry-level digital cameras go, this is a great buy.

It's available in Argos (and probably one or two other places).