The DXG 110 a neat, petite digital camera

With gas prices at near-record levels and mortgage rates giving homeowners ulcers, the only ray of sunshine in our cost-conscious world seems to be the sinking prices of electronic gadgets. The latest bit of happiness: a 10-megapixel digital camera, with lots of bells and whistles, including face-recognition software, for only $170.

The camera, the DXG 110, is made by city of Industry-based DXG. Never heard of it? Probably because DXG has been making cameras under other brand names for more than 20 years. The palm-size camera takes high-resolution photos right out of the box. Drawbacks: no viewfinder, a long shutter lag and a petite size that makes it hard to hold without accidentally squeezing a button. (626) 839-6528, www.dxgusa.com.