Suggestions for good p&s camera needed

[AvatarS]

I'm looking to replace my current 6-year old camera. It's served me well, but I'm looking for... more.

My requirements:

• small enough to fit into my handbag
• doesn't sacrifice features for size
• good optical zoom
• decent focal length range
• decent LCD
• performs well in bright and low light
• can take decent videos if needed (preferably HD videos)
• should be able to zoom while recording videos
• image stabilisation, of course
• black or silver

Flexible on budget (since they clearly last me a while). Would like to purchase asap.

Some suggestions that have been received so far:
- Panasonic Lumix ZS30
- Canon PowerShot SX270
- Canon PowerShot SX170
- Panasonic CTZ35

 

[garyc]

It depends on how strict you are on the requirements that you stated. None of cameras you suggest are likely to meet these requirements, especially regarding low-light quality. The Panasonics are also more difficult to come by in this country. Maybe the Sony RX100 is closer to what you are looking for.

 

[openshaww]

Go for the highest spec Canon you can afford. They have a good support structure in SA if you want you can ask me if you have the specs

 

[LazyDemoni]

Have a look at the Canon S120 or S200.
Nikon Coolpix P330 also seems good.
My favourite would be a Nikon 1 J1 or a Nikon 1 J2. They are interchangeable lens systems but they are pretty small and offer loads for the price. They might be a tad bigger than you want though.