The 10x zoom is what I like most for the price tag. In fact the digital zoom with VR combination is remarkable. I took a shot of a bill board about 1 km away and with 10x and digital zoom, the letters can be easily read (which are only about 30mm high) without the edge smearing or blurring, thanks to VR . Also the BSS is very useful for taking shots which gives optimum result with available light. Only problem I feel is (as many others feel) the absence of manual control. And also flash shots in normal distance of about 3 to 5 feet away look washed out. But overall I feel it is worth the value of money.