A DSLR is the abbreviation for digital single-lens reflex camera. It uses a mirror system combined with a pentaprism in order to direct light from the lens to the camera’s optical viewfinder that is situated on the back of the camera. On the other hand a Point-n-Shoot camera is defined as a compact and simple camera with easy operations and built-in flash. In case of a Point-n-Shoot camera the image that the user sees is not the same that is projected on the image sensor. However in case of an SLR camera it is crucial that the image in the viewfinder is the same as that is recorded on the image sensor.

The differences of these two types of cameras can be divided into five major categories. They are: -

• Size: - A DSLR is bulky and heavy owing to the extra accessories that accompany it, like the lenses, the flash etc. On the other hand the point and shoot camera is light weight as it does not require these additional accessories. This is one of the reasons why many people prefer a point and shoot camera over a DSLR. In case you need to carry a DSLR, you need a separate bag for it to hold the camera and its accessories, the point and shoot can easily be slipped into your pocket or handbag.

• Image Sensors: – Generally the point-and-shoot cameras use CCD sensors while the DSLR’s use CMOS sensors. The CMOS sensor provides better image quality and larger prints as compared to the CCD sensors. Also a CCD sensor consumes more battery power as compared to CMOS sensor. A CMOS sensor is larger in size as compared to a CCD sensor. Also CMOS sensors produce images with less noise factor as compared to CCD sensor. Thus people who need larger prints of their photos as well as less noise in the snaps and do not really bother about the size of the camera prefer a DSLR over the point-and-shoot camera. However if you prefer to have just small prints then you can choose a point-and-shoot camera.

• Creative Operations: - In case you want to play around with your camera then the DSLR is the best choice as it offers a galore of functionalities. The point-n-shoot camera however is limited with the number of control features. In case you want to leave your camera in the auto mode while shooting then there is no point in going for a DSLR, you might as well get a point-n-shoot. In case you are a beginner, then the number of options provided by a DSLR will leave you often confused.; so it is better to choose a camera with simple functionalities and then move on to a DSLR. Although point-n-shoot cameras also offer manual mode, the user have fewer settings as compared to the multitude of control functions in the DSLR.

• Shutter Lag: – The shutter lag is the time lapse that occurs when you release the shutter button and the camera actually captures the picture. Ideally it is better to have no shutter lag at all. However all cameras, point-n-shoot or DSLR come with certain shutter lag. In case of a DSLR the shutter lag is almost nil, while there is a comparatively higher shutter lag in case of a point-n-shoot camera. This may result in missing out on some important moments and events. So in case you are out to capture some fast moving moments and do not want to miss out any section of the event, then the DSLR is the best bet; however there are a lot of compact cameras that offer minimal shutter lag.

• Price: - The price is the main reason that determines which camera a person may want to own. A compact camera is available at a lower price range as compared to the DSLRs; though recently good DSLR cameras are available at an affordable rate. One thing you need to keep in mind while purchasing a DSLR camera is that you are not just buying a camera but a system. The DSLR camera needs to be upgraded with a number of lenses, filters, flash units etc. The price of the camera ultimately will be less important due to the price of the add-ons. However if you are a professional photographer and you would rather have a better unit than a cheaper and compromising model; then the DSLR could be your best bet. But if you are an amateur, then you could begin with a point-n-shoot camera.

Both the DSLR as well as the Point-n-Shoot have their own advantages and disadvantages. Presented above are just a few major distinguishing factors for the two types of digital cameras. They may be a lot more. Which one you would want to own is purely a decision of necessity and personal choice.

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