Best Point And Shoot Camera

Nowadays, manufacturers of digital cameras offer a wide choice of the best cameras for amateur photographers and professionals for every taste and need. So, even an experienced user can get confused with such a variety of brands and models, and beginning photographers, making the right choice is even more difficult.

DSLR (digital single-lens reflex) – is a single-lens reflex camera with a digital image sensor and optics. A DSLR camera is probably too complex for beginners or amateurs. But they are perfect for professional photographers who are not afraid to work with manual settings to get a better image.

Mirrorless cameras are smaller than DSLR bodies. They contain a high-quality matrix and removable lenses. Such devices combine the features of DSLR and compact cameras. If you want to get high-quality images but you don’t feel like carrying bulky equipment with you, then you should choose the best digital camera of this type.

A point-and-shoot camera is a convenient, non-bulky device that is easy to use. This is a kind of medium option for those people who are dissatisfied with the pictures taken with a smartphone but are not ready to buy expensive professional DSLR cameras. Undoubtedly, this camera body has a number of advantages in comparison to smartphones. Primarily, such cameras have a series of streams which will help get a better image. In addition, even the smallest models are equipped with a sufficiently large lens, so you can use optical zoom. As a rule, the matrix has a size of 1/2.3 inches. Summing up, we can say that point and shoot cameras are perfect for beginners and amateurs. If you are one of them, check out my list below.

20 Best Point and Shoot Cameras

1. Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II

This Canon body can be called the best point and shoot camera thanks to its practical functions. Though it has a new photo processor and a high-aperture lens, it remains quite compact and absolutely lightweight. If you have to photograph in low light, you will certainly appreciate an optical picture stabilizer. You also have an opportunity to photograph at ISO 1,250 without quality loss.

Photo by Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II

2. Fujifilm X100F

Are you looking for the best digital point and shoot camera to take photos and record videos? Then, think about this model with excellent autofocus and high ISO. With its +24MP photosensor, this camera can take high-quality, colorful pictures. Unlike other models in this class, Fujifilm X100F has an exclusive hybrid optical/electronic viewfinder and features superior full-frame models. This model can be called the best compact point and shoot camera because of top picture quality, fast focus and a variety of popular options.

Photo by Fujifilm X100F

3. Leica Q (Typ 116)

If you can afford to buy very pricey equipment, then pay attention to this model. It is known as the best point and shoot camera because of a Smilax 1: 1.7/28 mm ASPH lens and a unique 24-megapixel full-frame. These factors give you a chance to take really sharp, stunning photos of excellent quality. Furthermore, this device suits those who like shooting outdoors. It will be very useful for professionals, who specialize in architectural and landscape genres. This model can also be called the best small video camera, as it records all types of visual content without any special efforts.

Photo by Leica Q (Typ 116)

4. Sony RX1R II

The last model on our best point and shoot cameras list is quite expensive, but a really worthy device. This piece of equipment isn’t for average shooters, but its remarkable features are necessary for professionals. It has 42-megapixels, the best quality lens and a full-frame sensor. In addition, you can use a pop-up electronic viewfinder. The most important thing about this model is that this is the world's first camera with a variable optical low-pass filter. So, you can shoot even at night.

Photo by Sony RX1R II

5. Panasonic Lumix LX10

Talking about this point and shoot digital camera, I want to describe its laconic design, manual settings and the lot of useful functions. Except for other important advantages, this device is notable for a 20-megapixel sensor, as well as 24-72 mm lens and a 3-inch touchscreen. You should also pay attention to the ultra HD and wireless connection. At the same time, there are some disadvantages. For example, the camera doesn’t have a viewfinder.

Photo by Panasonic Lumix LX10

6. Olympus TG-5

According to many point and shoot camera reviews, it is the best choice for tourists and sports lovers. There are several reasons for this. First, its durable case is made of sturdy plastic. Second, the construction is very compact and portable. It is easy to travel with this device. Finally, this best point and shoot digital camera has a perfect in-built tracking system, a modern compass that can be very useful for travelers. So, if you prefer to take fantastic pictures in different extraordinary conditions, you should pay attention to the functionality. In addition to its stylish black and red design, the camera has water and dust protection. It is a guarantee that you will be able to use it for a long time. Compared to the previous version, this model has a tracking system that records temperature, speed and other parameters.

Photo by Olympus TG-5

7. Canon PowerShot SX430 IS

This is one of the best point and shoot cameras for those, who are looking for an inexpensive device with a large zoom. Here you will find a 20.5-megapixel sensor and a 45x zoom lens. The camera’s case has an ergonomic design with Wi-Fi and NFC communication modules. Talking about the main advantages of this model, I want to mention its easy to use functionality and huge zoom. You will also like it if you enjoy experimenting with filters and color profiles.

Photo by Canon PowerShot SX430 IS

8. Panasonic Lumix ZS70 / TZ90

This modern point and shoot camera will be useful for many amateur photographers and even tourists. With its Wi-Fi module and support for 802 standards, this model is quite universal and convenient. I should also mention the USB 2.0 and HDMI ports, as well as microphone and card slot. Moreover, the device has a 3.0-inch (diagonal) swivel touch screen. Thus, you can take a selfie by turning it 180 degrees. One of the most notable peculiarities is the lens with 30x zoom.

Photo by Panasonic Lumix ZS70 / TZ90

9. Nikon A900

This model is usually recommended for shooters who are looking for the best point and shoot camera with ergonomic design, long zoom and low cost. This is a cheap, but easy to use model from the famous Nikon brand. It has 35x optical zoom and full manual control. Still, the camera doesn’t support RAW format shooting and comes without touchscreen. It includes all basic features and some professional functions.

Photo by Nikon A900

10. Canon PowerShot SX60 HS

The Canon SX60 HS has excellent technical specifications while still being fairly easy to use. Excellent color reproduction, decent autofocus and the user interface are the advantages of this model. You can connect a microphone and also take photos in RAW format. A 16-megapixel CMOS image sensor allows you to record high-quality 1080p video. The control layout fully complies with the best point and shoot camera.

Photo by Canon PowerShot SX60 HS

11. Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II

This Canon Powershot camera combines compactness and functionality. You can get photos up to 5472x3648 thanks to a CMOS matrix with 20.1 million pixels. A convenient three-inch screen will allow you to set up and preview the images. A built-in Wi-Fi module allows you to synchronize the G9X Mark II with other gadgets and easily send photos. This best point and shoot digital camera has an optical 3x zoom and f/2.0-4.9 aperture. In addition to automatic settings, you have the ability to change the settings manually, which allows you to take great portrait shots. Moreover, you can take pictures of objects at a distance of up to 5 cm.

Photo by Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II

12. Canon IXUS 185

This compact point and shoot camera is equipped with a universal zoom lens and allows you to take great photos and record HD-videos of impressive quality. This stylish camera is great for everyday use due to its pocket size. In addition, the IXUS 185 is an affordable body. This tiny gadget has many features and settings that provide incredible picture quality. Even beginners can easily operate this camera. Easy Auto mode will select the necessary parameters for shooting in certain conditions. Therefore, with having deep knowledge of modern digital cameras, you still can get stunning pictures with this camera.

Photo by Canon IXUS 185

13. Sony DSC-RX100 Mark IV

This model has really useful and powerful functionality. Sony has developed a truly effective tool for taking photos that is stylish and compact at the same time. Therefore, it is not surprising that the RX100 Mark IV has almost no competitors. It should be noted that this camera is not among the budget options. However, if you have the opportunity to purchase this best point and shoot digital camera, you will not regret a single dollar spent.

Photo by Sony DSC-RX100 Mark IV

14. Sony CyberShot WX220

Do you like capturing interesting views while traveling or just photographing interesting things on the way to work or home? Then this camera is a great option for you. The DSC-WX220 has good technical characteristics and its small dimensions allow you to carry it with you all the time. This point and shoot camera from the Cyber-shot series is very popular on the market.

Photo by Sony CyberShot WX220

15. Ricoh WG-50

This best point and shoot camera is very durable. Its water resistance reaches 14 meters, it is freezeproof down to -10ºC and shockproof from falls up to 1.6 meters. The Ricoh is perfect for macro photography. It allows you to take cool, clear shots. This relatively inexpensive and durable camera can be a great choice for you.

Photo by Ricoh WG-50

16. Panasonic Lumix TZ200 / ZS200

This model is one of the top point and shoot cameras. It isn’t the cheapest one but it is worth the money you pay. The excellent travel camera has a 15x zoom, which will allow you to get high-quality pictures from long distances. The Lumix DMC-ZS200 will become almost indispensable in those cases when you do not have the opportunity to get closer to the object you want to photograph. In addition, the ability to zoom may be useful in other cases.

Photo by Panasonic Lumix TZ200 / ZS200

17. Sony DSC-W810

This best digital point and shoot camera has a 6x optical zoom and a super HAD CCD sensor. The resolution is 20.1 MP. A nice 6.7 cm LCD screen is one of the camera’s advantages. The Cyber-shot W810 is fairly easy to use so you don't need any special skills to deal with most shots. You can also record a video and watch it immediately. Unfortunately, video recording is limited to 720p HD. The camera comes with the auto function which will greatly simplify taking photos. It will automatically select the required settings depending on the conditions and scenes.

Photo by Sony DSC-W810

18. Fujifilm Instax Wide 300

Nowadays, instant cameras are significantly less popular than their digital rivals. In addition, there is no digital value and you can’t post your photos to social networks immediately, so they are used as a means for entertainment or as a reminder of past times. However, if you need an alternative to modern digital point and shoot cameras or just looking for interesting party entertainment, then pay attention to this model. It has an optical viewfinder, a 95mm f/14 lens, and controls to customize low and high tones in the images. The camera runs on AA batteries, so there is no USB port. In general, you do not need a variety of bells and whistles as this camera will not only take photos but it also will print them. You can decorate your workplace or wardrobe with such photos or come up with another interesting idea.

Photo by Fujifilm Instax Wide 300

19. Canon PowerShot Elph 190

This tiny digital camera can be an excellent option if you are just taking the first steps in photography. The 10x optical zoom with an optical image stabilizer and a 20 megapixel CCD certainly help get high-quality images. The PowerShot ELPH 190 supports Wi-Fi and NFC, so you will not have any trouble transferring photos. You will also appreciate the ability to play back 720p high definition video in Scene or Smart Auto mode.

Photo by Canon PowerShot Elph 190

20. Nikon Coolpix W100

This is a really durable device that can be called one of the top point and shoot cameras. You can take it almost anywhere, as it works effectively in any conditions. With its waterproof, shockproof and dustproof case, this 13.2-megapixel camera will be helpful for traveling photographers. The CMOS sensor provides an opportunity to take pictures in low light. The four-way navigation bar is combined with 3x optical and 6x digital zoom. As a result, you can easily choose the perfect angle for photos. Besides, you can use the Nikon smartphone app to share images via Wi-Fi, NFC or Bluetooth.

Photo by Nikon Coolpix W100

20 Best Point and Shoot Cameras for Beginners & Professionals

Image	NAME	DETAILS
	Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II OUR CHOICE	20.1MP 4.2x zoom	CHECK PRICE →
	Canon IXUS 185 CHEAP CAMERA	20MP 8x zoom	CHECK PRICE →
	Sony DSC-RX100 Mark IV INSTANT CAMERA	20.1MP 3.8xzoom	CHECK PRICE →
	Sony CyberShot WX220	18.2MP 10xzoom	CHECK PRICE →
	Ricoh WG-50 WATERPROOF	16MP 5x zoom	CHECK PRICE →
	Panasonic Lumix TZ200/ZS200	20.1MP 15x zoom	CHECK PRICE →
	Sony DSC-W810	20.1MP 6x zoom	CHECK PRICE →
	Fujifilm Instax Wide 300	-	CHECK PRICE →
	Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II TINY CAMERA	20.1MP 3x zoom	CHECK PRICE →
	Canon PowerShot Elph 190	20MP 10x zoom	CHECK PRICE →
	Canon PowerShot SX60 HS BEST SUPERZOOM	16.1MP 65x zoom	CHECK PRICE →
	Canon PowerShot SX430 IS FOR BEGINNERS	20MP 1x zoom	CHECK PRICE →
	Panasonic Lumix ZS70 / TZ90 BEST PANASONIC	20.3MP 30x zoom	CHECK PRICE →
	Olympus TG-5 VIDEO CAMERA	12MP 4x zoom	CHECK PRICE →
	Panasonic Lumix LX10	20.1MP 6x zoom	CHECK PRICE →
	Fujifilm X100F BEST FUJIFILM	24.3MP 1x zoom	CHECK PRICE →
	Nikon A900 BUDGET NIKON	20MP 35x zoom	CHECK PRICE →
	Leica Q (Typ 116) FOR EXPERTS	24.2MP 1x zoom	CHECK PRICE →
	Nikon Coolpix W100 13.2 MP FOR KIDS	13.2MP 3x zoom	CHECK PRICE →
	Sony RX1R II PROFESSIONAL	42.4MP 1x zoom	CHECK PRICE →

Point and Shoot Camera vs DSLR

It is a bad idea to search for the best DSLR camera if you are only starting your career as a photographer or need a device only for amateur shooting. On the other hand, if you already have some experience and understand the basics of photography, you are welcome to look for the best compact cameras for professional photographers. It all depends on your skills and goals. Do you consider taking pictures as an occupation or a hobby? Let’s compare DSLRs and point and shoot cameras to find the best option for you.

First, pay attention to the optical system. Using a DSLR camera, you will see exactly the same image in the viewfinder as in the actual photo. But even the best point and shoot camera distorts pictures while they are transferred.

With regards to the functionality, with DSLR cameras, you can add extra accessories to get more detailed images. You can choose a wide variety of lenses, as well as light filters. They help with experimenting with shadows and color. For example, a photographer changes and adjusts brightness, contrast and light levels according to his/her preferences. As a result, he/she gets less noise and better clarity. The filters are very different. They help to realize lots of creative ideas and save your time. Furthermore, some DSLR camera models have built-in picture editors. They allow for correcting the standard defects, like red eyes, or add titles.

Other important differences concern the matrix itself, or rather, the size of a pixel. You may notice that a compact camera has very few pixels, while a DSLR has big ones, which results in photos of different sizes and formats. So, shooting with DSLR, you will take detailed pictures even if you photograph a moving object.

Manual settings are of vital importance for any professional photographer. DSLRs have such a mode. They allow you to develop an individual professional style and achieve better results.

Point and Shoot Camera vs Mirrorless

Mirrorless is a relatively new camera type for photographers. It’s a compact camera with interchangeable lenses and an excellent professional matrix. It combines the main benefits of DSLRs and compacts cameras. Having interchangeable lenses and an ergonomic case, they can be used as the best compact camera for travel. Experienced shooters like this device, as it helps to take sharp pictures with bright color. In addition, you can take pictures very quickly. The main drawback is the small size. Furthermore, many users would like to have an optical viewfinder. You should also remember the short battery life, which is uncomfortable for travelers.

Mainly, such cameras were created to make shooting as simple as possible. So, they mostly come with automatic settings. Of course, professional photographers can use manual mode, but it isn’t always convenient. All in all, mirrorless cameras can be helpful both for beginners and for skilled photographers.

Ann Young

Hi there, I'm Ann Young - a professional blogger, read more