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Upgrade your smartphone or have a trustworthy backup camera—the best compact cameras combine strong photography capabilities with portable design. All of the best choices have undergone rigorous testing, and our top picks are shown below. Our thorough round-up is intended to assist you in selecting the perfect little camera.
One of our favorite travel cameras, the Panasonic Lumix ZS100 / TZ100, is also highly recommended if your budget is tight or you’d prefer a camera with a wide optical zoom range. It creates rich, detailed photos by combining a good 1-inch sensor with a 10x optical zoom.
Our in-depth overview includes some of the greatest vlogging cameras along with anything from fixed-lens luxury compacts to superzoom travel cameras. Our experts have evaluated handling, usability, zoom and viewfinder performance, as well as overall image quality, for every entry in a variety of real-world circumstances. The bottom of the page has professional purchasing advise if you’re not sure where to begin.
Quick List of Best Compact Cameras
For a quick summary of the top compact cameras for every purpose and price range, see the round-up below. Upon discovering a small camera that meets your needs, utilize the links located below each listing to access our comprehensive article.
Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Sony RX100 VII BEST OVERALL
- 20. 1MP 1. 0 Type stacked CMOS sensor, Zeiss Vario Sonnar T 24 200 millimeter F2. 8 F4. 5 large...
- 0. 02 sec. High AF speed, 357 point focal plane Phase detection AF and 425 point contrast...
- Up to 20 fps blackout free shooting, using up to 60 times/sec. AF/AE calculations. Diopter...
Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Pros
- Sterling autofocus system
- Beautiful video
Cons
- Handling not ideal
- Expensive
Specifcations
| Sensor: | 1-inch, 20.1MP |
| Lens: | 24-200mm, f/2.8-4.5 |
| Viewfinder: | EVF |
| Continuous shooting: | 20fps |
| Movies: | 4K |
| User level: | Intermediate/Expert |
SONY RX100 VII – Overview
In many ways, the RX100 VII remains the greatest compact available right now. Its autofocus mechanism, we discovered, is far ahead of any other pocket camera, following moving subjects with outstanding dependability and making excellent use of its Face and Eye AF, even in video mode. The video quality is excellent, and the visual quality is as impressive. But all of this comes at a high cost, which for many individuals may be a deal breaker.
Nonetheless, we can’t resist adding it in this guide because it’s one of the greatest solutions available. If your budget allows, there isn’t a more powerful compact than the Mark VII. However, if you’re willing to forego some of the most recent focusing technologies and a microphone connection, the RX100 VI delivers similar performance but is slightly less expensive.
BUY IT IF:
✅ The RX100 VII is the most versatile pocket camera for photos and videos.
✅ You shoot action: While the lens zoom is limited, it performs well with fast autofocus and continuous shooting.
DON’T BUY IT IF:
❌ You seek superb handling: Although small, the RX100 VII is not the most ergonomic alternative available.
❌ You rely on a touch screen: The touch screen has limited functionality and does not facilitate menu navigation.
Ricoh GR III BEST POCKET PHOTO
- 24 MP CMOS Sensor with accelerator unit helps achieve remarkable image quality; 3 Axis; 4 Stop...
- 3 inches Air gapless Capacitive Touch LCD Screen makes controlling the GR III event easier with...
- The GR III features a hybrid AF system combining a contrast type AF mechanism, superior in...
Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Pros
- Subtle, minimalistic design
- Compact and pocketable
- Wide-angle lens for capturing scenes
Cons
- No electronic viewfinder
- Fixed rear display
Specifcations
| Sensor: | APS-C CMOS sensor |
| Lens: | 18.3mm (28mm equivalent) f/2.8 lens |
| Viewfinder: | None (an optical viewfinder is available separately) |
| Continuous shooting: | Up to 4 frames per second |
| Movies: | Full HD 1080p video recording |
| User level: | Intermediate to advanced |
RICOH GR III – Overview
For street photographers who prefer to take rapid, stealthy shots, the Ricoh GR III is the ultimate camera. You can rapidly shoot from the hip thanks to its wide-angle field of view, innovative Snap Focus feature, and unobtrusive minimalist design. It is also easy to slide into and take out of a jeans pocket. It’s also a fantastic all-around travel camera if you want to spend your time creating your compositions.
However, the affordability of slim jeans has a price: This camera doesn’t have an optical viewfinder (you can get one separately), its wide-angle lens doesn’t zoom, and its rear LCD isn’t able to tilt.
A variation known as the GR IIIx is made by Ricoh if you would rather have a field of view more akin to that of a traditional “normal” lens. With a 40mm f/2.8 lens, it is an identical replica of the GR III camera. The business has also unveiled the GR III HDF and GR IIIx HDF, which are variations that have a highlight diffusion filter instead of an integrated neutral density filter that you can turn on for a nostalgic, dreamlike appearance.
BUY IT IF:
✅ You appreciate a small design for convenient transportation and place a high priority on covert street photography.
✅ You’re an enthusiast looking for a flexible travel camera that captures sharp images from a wide angle.
DON’T BUY IT IF:
❌ To compose shots, you need a tilting back display or an electronic viewfinder.
❌ For more framing versatility, you prefer cameras with zoom or various focal lengths.
Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II BEST FEATURES
- 20. 1 Megapixel 1. 0” Stacked CMOS Sensor and DIGIC 8 Image Processor.
- 5x Optical Zoom Lens (24-120mm f/1. 8-2. 8) with Optical Image Stabilizer.
- 4K 30p / FHD 120p Video.
Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Pros
- Overall, very nice image quality
- High-quality construction and attention to detail
- Excellent handling for such a little body
- EVF is clean and crisp
Cons
- Lens is soft at larger apertures
- 4K videos are decent but not really competitive
- Battery life could be improved
- Somewhat costly in comparison to rivals
Specifcations
| Sensor: | 1-inch CMOS, 20.1MP |
| Lens: | 24-100mm, f/1.8-2.8 |
| Monitor: | 3.0-inch LCD tilting touchscreen |
| Viewfinder: | EVF, 2,360,000 dots |
| Continuous shooting: | 30fps |
| Movies: | 4K |
| User level: | Intermediate |
CANON POWERSHOT G5 X MARK II – Overview
Editor’s Choice
The finest Canon cameras to buy aren’t simply full-frame flagships; the Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II is undoubtedly one of the brand’s top options right now. It’s not the cheapest option available right now, but it’s a well-rounded camera with a pocket-friendly compact factor and superb handling. The Mark II’s new features include an exceptional stacked 20.1MP 1-inch CMOS sensor with the brand’s DIGIC processing engine.
This model can now shoot at 30fps in raw burst mode and 20fps in standard JPEG, and it also has a solid set of video specifications. The ability to capture 4K video without cropping is very impressive in such a small device. Other good new features include USB charging, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity, all of which improve the quality of life for any camera, particularly one at this price point. These upgrades, together with the Mark II’s superb build quality and adaptable 24-120mm f/1.8-2.8 lens, make it an excellent all-around camera, as well as one of the best travel cameras.
BUY IT IF:
✅ You want high-quality construction: Overall, the build quality seems excellent, with secure handling and a high level of attention to detail surrounding all controls.
✅ You’re trying to find a shooter for everyday use. With its flexibility to cover most frequent situations, the 24-120mm f/1.8-2.8 lens offers a solid balance between versatility and image quality.
DON”T BUY IT IF:
❌ You can record 4K video with the G5X Mark II, but it lacks the better capabilities found in Sony’s competing products.
❌ You’re looking for outstanding value. Since Canon is never inexpensive, the G5X Mark II seems pricey in comparison to its competitors.
Panasonic LUMIX ZS100 BEST AFFORDABLE
- POINT-AND-SHOOT CAMERA: Large, 1-inch 20.1-megapixel MOS sensor plus 10X zoom LEICA DC...
- EYE-LEVEL ELECTRONIC VIEWFINDER AND LCD DISPLAY: High-resolution 1,166k-dot viewfinder and rear...
- 4K VIDEO CAPTURE: 4K QFHD video recording (3840 x 2160), plus exclusive LUMIX 4K PHOTO and 4K...
Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Pros
- Useful range of optical zoom
- Possesses an electronic viewfinder
- Captures 4K footage
Cons
- Small EVF
- Fixed screen
Specifcations
| Sensor: | 20.1MP 1-inch |
| Lens: | 25-250mm (10x optical zoom) |
| Monitor: | 3.0-inch rear LCD |
| Viewfinder: | EVF (0.2-inch, 1166k-dot) |
| Continuous shooting: | 10fps |
| Movies: | 4K |
| User level: | Beginner/Intermediate |
PANASONIC LUMIX ZS100 – Overview
This is the small camera we’d choose if you’re searching for an affordable, travel-friendly, all-arounder with a viewfinder. Although the ZS200 / TZ200 has since replaced it, it is still a great option if you don’t require the higher-resolution viewfinder and somewhat longer zoom (15x vs. 10x) of the more recent model. The ZS100 / TZ100 continues to be a good compromise between super-zoom models with reach comparable to a smartphone and high-end compact cameras with larger sensors (a 1-inch sensor in this example). Although numerous smartphones can now equal its 10x zoom, the lens and image processing quality of this camera generated bright, detailed images in our tests.
The fixed touchscreen and small, relatively low-resolution viewfinder are the drawbacks. These are signs of the camera’s age, but other from that, it still has modern conveniences like 10 frames per second burst shooting, 4K video recording, and built-in Wi-Fi. A small EVF is still preferable to none at all when shooting in bright light. The Panasonic ZS100 / TZ100 will serve you well and provide a more pleasurable photographic experience than any glass slab if you’re searching for high-quality photographs with minimum baked-in processing.
BUY IT IF:
✅ You desire authority from your wallet: With a 1 in sensor and 10x zoom, it’s one of the smallest cameras in our roundup.
✅ You’re looking for a cheap compact: The ZS100 / TZ100 is among the most reasonably priced choices on this list, although not being very inexpensive.
DON”T BUY IF:
❌ You desire the highest quality image possible: Compromise is a necessary part of versatility, and some of this guide’s fixed lens solutions will help you achieve even better results.
❌ You’d want a flip screen. Because the LCD screen is fixed, taking odd shots and taking selfies can be difficult.
Sony ZV-1 BEST FOR VIDEO
- 20.1MP stacked back illuminated 1” Exmor RS CMOS sensor w/ DRAM. Large aperture 24-70mm1...
- Fast Hybrid Autofocus and Real Time Eye Autofocus and Real-time Autofocus tracking.
- Side flip-out 3.0” LCD screen that also tilts up and down for easier to compose selfie shots
Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Pros
- Simple to setup and use
- Decent bass without a subwoofer
- Wide sound
Cons
- No Dolby Atmos support
- sometimes sluggish streaming performance
Specifcations
| Sensor: | 1-inch, 20.1MP |
| Lens: | 24-70mm f/1.8-2.8 |
| Monitor: | 3.0-inch vary-angle touchscreen, 921,600 dots |
| Viewfinder: | None |
| Continuous shooting: | 24fps |
| Movies: | 4K/30p |
| User level: | Beginner/Intermediate |
SONY ZV-1 – Overview
The Sony ZV-1 is among the greatest choices available if your primary needs from a tiny camera are stills rather than video. The ZV-1’s primary strength is its video capabilities, but it is also quite adept at taking still images as well—after all, it has the same sensor and CPU as Sony’s most recent RX100 series cameras. This includes its best-in-class autofocus abilities, which enable it to tenaciously lock onto subjects moving within your frame as well as people. In testing, we discovered that it performed a great job at tracking our eyes over the majority of the frame and maintaining focus on moving subjects. Naturally, the 20.1MP 1-inch sensor produces incredibly high-quality video as well.
These are supported by a hotshoe to aid in mounting the external microphone and a 3.5mm mic port for improving audio quality. Although its brilliant 24-70mm f/1.8-2.8 lens doesn’t have the same reach as the RX100 VII, it does guarantee beautiful background blur in both still images and movies, which is ideal if your primary shooting focus is vlogs or portraits. Since then, Sony has produced the ZV-1 II, but we found the replacement to be a confusing improvement that didn’t really offer anything more than the ZV-1 to warrant the higher price.
BUY IT IF:
✅ A robust vlogging camera is what you desire: Right now, the Sony ZV-1 is the greatest little camera for YouTubers, producing 4K footage that rivals that of smartphones.
✅ You want a compact that will expand with you: Although Sony has made the ZV-1 easier for novices to use, it still contains a ton of professional functionality.
DON”T BUY IT IF:
❌ It’s primarily your goal to capture stills: Though its moderate zoom range and absence of a viewfinder may hinder some photographers, it’s still a capable camera for stills.
❌ An all-weather action camera is essential: Although the ZV-1 has a ton of features, weatherproofing is one that it lacks.
How to Choose The Best Compact Camera For You
How We Tested The Best Compact Cameras
FAQs: Best Compact Cameras
- Is a compact camera better than a smartphone?
It’s common knowledge that the greatest camera is the one you have with you, which is typically the smartphone that’s in your pocket. This is especially true if you want to quickly take crisp pictures to post on social media. The finest compact cameras continue to outperform their mobile competitors in terms of image quality and overall shooting experience, even if the best camera phone options are now more advanced than ever
Larger sensors are a clear benefit; in general, a premium compact’s sensor will be larger than that of the typical smartphone. In other words, if you decide to print out your photos, you’ll receive greater detail and improved low-light performance. The majority of small cameras also aid.
The flexibility of optical zoom is a feature that very few smartphones have. Although zoom range varies throughout models, this is a feature that most of the top small cameras come with as standard. When it comes to maintaining detail, digital zoom technology is rarely able to match optical zoom quality, despite significant advancements in that regard.
There are some physical advantages of small cameras over smartphones. The greatest compacts include specific buttons and dials that provide more creative control, even though both kinds of devices are made to fit in pockets. Similar to this, a lot of the greatest small alternatives have a tiny but practical grip that improves their handling ergonomics compared to smartphones. When framing, tilting touchscreens and specialized electronic viewfinders come in helpful, and some compact cameras are equipped with specialized features like waterproof bodies and stabilizing gimbals. - Do photographers use compact cameras?
Most photographers these days prefer to use one of the best mirrorless cameras as their primary camera due to its performance and relative portability. Though several of these models are among the best travel cameras, they are not much larger than a high-end compact and come with interchangeable lenses for further flexibility.
Still, a lot of photographers opt to bring along a high-end compact as a backup camera. A dependable tiny camera can be a helpful tool to have on hand in case a picture-perfect scenario presents itself, even though they might not be able to compete directly with the photos taken by top mirrorless models.
Especially for street and travel photographers, this is true. Compared to a professional full-frame camera, a compact is less noticeable, which makes it more comfortable to shoot in public. Because of its smaller size and lack of a big kit bag, you’re also more inclined to carry it with you whenever you go out.
Photographers who choose to travel light and leave their primary camera at home might also benefit from this. Although you rarely see a picture from a tiny decorative billboard, the top models are capable of producing photographs that are sharp enough for digital assignments and photos that win prizes. This is particularly true if you choose a compact camera that caters to a certain market, like the Fujifilm X100V, which has a fixed 23mm f/2 lens and is perfect for street and low light photography.
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Last update on 2024-12-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon.
Why Trust Factic
Berry Alex has been evaluating, testing, and reviewing tech, Household and travel items for several decades. He compiled all of the testers’ input, conducted extra research to assess each phone mount’s essential features and overall functioning, and reviewed professional profiles and verified customer reviews for each product.
