The new Fujifilm Finepix A220. (Photo courtesy of Fujifilm)

It appears the struggling economy is starting to affect camera manufacturers. Today, Fujifilm announced a half dozen new models, including two point-and-shoots under $100. That’s good news for if you’re looking for a new camera without breaking your budget.

The new sub-$100 models are both in Fujifilm’s A-series budget camera line: the 10-megapixel FinePix A170 ($89.95) and the 12-megapixel FinePix A220 ($99.95). Both have the basics, including  3x optical zoom lenses, 2.7-inch LCD displays and simulated image stabilization. Both also use AA batteries. (They are almost identical in appearance.)

It will be interesting to see if other camera companies follow suit. In our point-and-shoot Ratings (available to subscribers), there’s only one camera, a GE-brand compact, that’s under $100—but ranks fairly low. Will Fujifilm’s new sub-$100 cameras fare better? We’ll take a look at them when they’re available and let you know.

What features could you live without in a very cheap point-and-shoot camera? Share your preferences in the space below. —Terry Sullivan