What is the cheapest best digital camera you could buy?

Give us a budget! There are so many brands and models at the low end, that for every dollar you're willing to spend more, there will be a different 'best' camera.

I have an Olympus Camedia D-395 that only cost a little more than $100. It is small, fits in my pocket well, has a nice battery life, and takes great pictures with little effort. Controls are also easy to understand.

Kodak Easyshare CD33. Only a 3MP, but has 3x optical zoom, Plenty of scene modes, video w/ sound, macro, and available for under $120 at Wally World.