As long as this isn't for a present for anyone, you might consider a good used digital. You should be able to buy them for 1/2 price or less. You may not get the box or all the plastic that separates the junk...but you'll get the most important part. You should be able to tell if they work or not. Even your local camera shop may "know" of someone wanting to sell their 1 yr old "whatever" in hopes of buying a new top-end camera from same camera shop. Maybe you have a friend or neighbor that wants to sell a good late model used camera.

You'll probably get a lot of features for a very good price. In another year, you'll be more experienced and know what you really like-dislike & be ready to move up. Certainly worth one's consideration.