When searching for a digital camera under $200, key considerations include lens quality over megapixels, as a good lens significantly impacts photo and video quality. Canon is frequently recommended for its reliable lens performance, often compared favorably to Leica, while Panasonic is noted for its excellent Leica lenses. Popular models in the $150-$180 range include various Canon and Nikon options, with the Canon Powershot series and Panasonic Lumix being highlighted for their compact size and quality. Users emphasize the importance of features like optical zoom and low-light performance, with many suggesting that an 8MP camera is sufficient for casual photography. While some users express a willingness to spend slightly more for better features, the consensus is that a budget of around $200 can still yield a capable point-and-shoot camera.