shutter speed, image processor, cheap cameras. i honestly dont know the real answer to that as I dont know a bunch about cameras either but after using point and shoot cameras and going do dslr cameras there is no comparison. Now if you want a dslr you are going to pay more for it. Now there are alot more choices of dslr now that have come down in price so you may want to check it out first.
It is bad because if you are trying to capture something in motion or low light or whatnot then you wont get the pics you want. If you are doing still photography then cheaper slower is fine. My nikon d80 shoots like I think up to 3 frames per second so I can capture things in motion and have a better chance of getting a better picture that I am happy with.
Nikon has a cheaper dslr out the d40. It is about $450 which is still quite a bit more then point and shoots but you will have the ability even in auto mode to get better pics. With dslr cameras you can buy different lenses and have the ability to do alot more.
Now if you want one that is easy to put in your pocket and carry around a dslr is not for you. If you dont mind some bulk and to pay a little more a dlsr might be an option to look at.
Go to bestbuy or ritz camera and just look at the differences yourself and see.
