http://digitalcameravideocamera.com/digital-camera-consumer-reports/

What is the Best Digital Camera under $ 500?
I am looking for a digital camera preferably $ 200 and $ 400, but if the quality is at stake, up to $ 500. Wanting to 8.0 mega pixels or more, with the zoom. I'll use it for taking portraits outdoor and action photography, as usual inside (B-Day party … random images … etc.), and night school reunion (Lighting of the hall as well). I already checked CNet and Consumer Reports, I'm just looking for personal preferences. Image clarity is prime, and color balance … Can I change the pictures on my computer but I'd rather not have to.
I do not know if you're ready to achieve something a little bigger than a "Compact'-but consider this unit http://www.Dpreview.com/Reviews/fujifilms6000fd/ the Fuji S6000fd gives you a 28-300mm zoom and a high ISO (light sensitivity) the ability that nothing less than Digital SLRs offer. Yes, you can actually use ISO800 on this camera without the picture looking all blurry. It is "only" 6.3Mpix, but the difference between 6 and 8 MP is not as much as you think, and with it the biggest rivals CCD or it beats almost any camera 8Mp in resolution (Short of an SLR).
Digital Camera Consumer Reports

Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ10( ZS7) Camera Review