Best advanced compact cameras
There are hundreds of digital compact cameras on the market, with advanced, superzoom and rugged camera options all being available, which makes finding the right one quite tricky.
The right choice, of course, depends on what you want from your compact digital camera. Maybe you’re looking for a high-end compact camera to take the place of your SLR, or perhaps you want something more basic to get a few snaps on vacation.
Whichever type you are looking for, we’ve pulled together a selection of what we believe are the best compact cameras on the market now.
Best advanced compact cameras:
Sony RX100 II
Price: $ 750
Specs: 20 MP, 3.6 x optical zoom, 1080p video, 12.8 x 9.6 (1") mm sensor
There’s plenty to like about the Sony RX100 Mark II, from its small, pocketable size to its excellent image quality.
We’re most pleased about the improvement to low light performance, which is significantly better than its predecessor, thanks to that new backlit sensor.
Putting aside our disappointment about there still not being a touchscreen, we’re still a little bugged by the functions that can’t be shot in raw format, leading to some pretty tedious menu diving. Still, if you predominantly shoot in JPEG only, this shouldn’t be too much of an issue for you.
Read our full Sony RX100 II review
Fuji X100S
Price: $ 1,300
Specs: 16.3MP APS-C format CMOS II sensor, EXR Processor II, Full HD video
Fuji’s replacement to its popular FinePix X100 compact camera draws on user feedback to make improvements. The Fuji FinePix X100S uses the same sized sensor (APS-C) but it’s an X-Trans CMOS II device with a resolution of 16.3 million pixels with the 6 x 6 RGGB filter array pattern seen on the Fuji X-Pro1‘s sensor. There’s also a new EXR Processor II.
We liked the retro design and control arrangement of the Fuji X100 and this continues with the X100S. The hybrid viewfinder, which can be switched between optical and electronic operation, gives the camera an advantage over most compact cameras which only allow images to be composed on an LCD screen.
Its image quality is also very good and on a par with some SLRs, so shots have sharp detail and natural color.
Although it’s a little bulky, the X100S is one of our favorite compact cameras.
Read our full Fuji X100S review
Fuji X20
Price: $ 600
Specs: 12MP X-Trans CMOS II sensor, 6 x 6 RGGB filter array pattern, 7.1-28.4mm f/2-2.8 lens
The Fuji X10 was our favorite high-end compact camera of 2012, and combining it with the same sensor design as one of our favorite compact system cameras – the Fuji X-Pro1 – bodes very well.
Fuji says it’s made 50 improvements on the X10 for the X20, including a new 2/3-inch X-Trans CMOS II sensor with 12 million effective pixels and a 6 x 6 RGGB filter array pattern, which combines with an EXR Processor II. The Fuji X20 also boasts a hybrid AF system and a Digital Trans Panel in the viewfinder.
Read our full Fuji X20 review
Canon Powershot G1 X
Price: $ 700
Specs: Large 14.3MP CMOS sensor, 4x optical zoom, 1080p HD video, swivel LCD screen
Although the zoom range is limited when compared to other Canon G-series cameras, the trump card of the Canon G1 X is its unusually large sensor. A larger sensor has more surface area to receive light, improving image quality at high sensitivities and boosting dynamic range. Interestingly, Canon has opted to stick with the 4:3 aspect ratio, rather than 3:2 as most APS-C sensors are, even though the sensor in the G1 X is roughly the same height as APS-C format.
In order to make the most of what the sensor can offer, Canon has equipped the G1 X with the latest Digic 5 processor, which promises better control over noise at high ISO sensitivities, faster operation and smoother 1080p video recording.
The 4x zoom lens provides an angle of view equivalent to a 28-122mm lens on a 35mm camera, and the usual array of direct controls found on G-series cameras should make manual operation a pleasure.
Read our full Canon G1 X review
Nikon Coolpix A
Price: $ 1,097
Specs: 16.2Mp APS-C format CMOS sensor, 28mm (equivalent) f/2.8 lens, 3-inch 921,000-dot LCD
Nikon has given the Coolpix A the same 16.2-million-pixel sensor as the Nikon D7000, but it has left off the anti-aliasing (low-pass) filter to allow it to record sharper details in-camera.
Aimed at serious photographers, the Coolpix A has advanced exposure modes such as aperture priority, shutter priority and manual as well as fully automatic and scene options.
Our tests reveal that the Coolpix A can capture lots of sharp detail, on par with an SLR, but the file write times are a little longer than we’d like and vignetting is apparent in images shot with apertures down to f/8 and in some cases f/16.
Read our full Nikon Coolpix A review
Best superzoom and bridge cameras
Sometimes you don’t want to lug around a DSLR and an assortment of lenses – you want one camera and one lens that does it all.
This means a feature set that cherry picks the best that a typical DSLR has to offer, including manual control and preferably the ability to shoot in raw format as well as JPEG, along with a lens that offers a very broad focal range, so it won’t matter that it can’t be swapped.
Enter the superzoom camera, also known as an ultra zoom or bridge camera – so called because it bridges the gap between a point and shoot compact and an full bells and whistles DSLR, in terms of handling and feature set, at least.
Superzoom build
For this reason, superzooms tend to closely resemble DSLRs in terms of look, build and – to an extent – handling, but feature smaller image sensors and, partly because of this, afford physically smaller lenses.
While not a replacement for a DSLR then, the advantage here is that the cameras can offer a very broad focal range; one that, if you were to try and achieve similar effects with a DSLR, would make for a prohibitively expensive and awkwardly unwieldy combo.
The larger physical size of a bridge camera or superzoom when compared with a snapshot camera may deter some, but there’s a lot more creative versatility here in terms of framing choices. A case in point: many models also offer tilt and swivel LCD screens as well as optical or electronic viewfinders. Again, with a bridge camera there is more choice and more options for the photo enthusiast.
So if you are after one jack-of-all-trades digital camera – either instead of a DSLR, or perhaps as a less expensive back up – and you value convenience and flexibility as much as image quality and pixel count, then a bridge or superzoom camera could be your ideal companion. So here we’re shining the spotlight on the best of some recent releases.
Nikon Coolpix L820
Price: $ 280
Specs: 30x zoom NIKKOR glass lens, low-light CMOS sensor, 16MP , Full HD 1080p videos
The Nikon L820 is inexpensive, has a broad focal range and a sensor that’s not over-burdened with pixels. Its images provide a good level of detail, unless you’re shooting at maximum zoom, whereby results can be more hit and miss in terms of blur.
The plastic high gloss finish can be off-putting, as can the fact that it’s powered by bog standard AA batteries. It also lacks a viewfinder, accessory shoe, integrated Wi-Fi connectivity, a touchscreen and a raw shooting option, which are features we miss.
While modest in comparison to some of the 42x and 50x zoom bridge cameras currently on the market, the Nikon L820 is priced sensibly to reflect this. And a broad 22.5-675mm focal range in 35mm terms is certainly of greater use for more creative endeavors than the fixed lens and digital zoom on your smartphone.
Read our full Nikon L820 review
Fuji X-S1
Price: $ 630
Specs: 12MP CMOS sensor, 26x optical zoom,1080p video, 3-inch, 460k dot tilting screen
Looking for the ultimate overall bridge camera, and less bothered about just grabbing the longest lens? Separating this 26x optical zoom model from the herd – its focal range running from 24-624mm in 35mm terms – is a rock-solid build reminiscent of the semi-pro DSLR it resembles in shape and form, plus rubberized body armor that aids a firm grip.
Oddly it not only looks gorgeous, but smells great too, as the zoom coming with a rubber surround to prevent slippage in the heat of the action. Given that this is a premium product in Fuji’s pro/enthusiast photography range, the cost of the Fuji X-S1 is neither cheap nor prohibitively pricey, particularly when it’s now being touted for $ 300 less than the original asking price.
The Fuji X-S1 wins our Best superzoom camera award.
Read our full Fujifilm X-S1 review
Sony HX300
Price: $ 470
Specs: 20.4MP, 50x optical zoom, 1080/60p Full HD video, 3.0" tiltable LCD
As you’d expect from a DSLR-styled bridge camera bearing the Sony brand, the HX300 comes across as reassuringly robust and built-to-last when gripped in the palm, particularly with the lens resting dormant within its protective housing.
Shooting at maximum ISO 12800 equivalent, images appear quite heavily processed and softened, so you’d probably want to avoid that option entirely.
However, it does actually achieve something that the majority of superzooms fail to do, and that’s deliver sharp results even when shooting handheld at maximum telephoto. As a result, there will be an audience out there who feel that paying a slight premium for the Sony HX300 could be worth it.
Read our full Sony HX300 review
Nikon Coolpix P510
Price: $ 400
Specs: 16MP CMOS sensor, 42x optical zoom, 1080p video, 3-inch, 921k dot tilting screen
Trumping its wimpy-by-comparison 36x optical zoom predecessor the Nikon P500 with its new improved 42x zoom, the Nikon P510 is an amateur paparazzi’s dream, courtesy of an ultra-wide 24-1000mm equivalent focal length. For that, the asking price doesn’t feel too bad. Again, the build is "DSLR lite," the zoom supported by lens-shift rather than sensor-shift image stabilization, while a 16 megapixel 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor lies at its core. Performance is enhanced by an Expeed C2 image processor.
Slightly more exciting is, once again, a tilting LCD screen – this time of the 3-inch, respectably high 921k-dot variety, which can be angled up or down but not swung out parallel to the body. Naturally Full HD video shooting is also included, while like its Canon SX40 HS rival the ISO range tops out at a modest ISO 3200, and doing battle with the Sony HX200V, a GPS antenna sits over the lens barrel and pop-up flash. This means, unlike the Fuji X-S1, there’s no space for a hotshoe. For sports fans, continuous burst shooting of up to 7fps is offered, which is better than most entry-level DSLRs at its price.
Read our full Nikon Coolpix P510 review
Canon Powershot SX50 HS
Price: $ 400
Specs: 12.1MP, 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, 50x optical zoom, 1080p video, 2.7-inch, 460,000-dot variangle screen
Although it has the same pixel count as the Canon SX40 HS that it replaces the Canon Powershot SX50 HS makes a huge leap forward with its focal length range as it features a 50x zoom lens. This optic has a focal length equivalent to a 24-1200mm lens on a 35mm camera, with a maximum aperture of f/3.4-65.
This lens means the camera is suitable for a huge range of photographic situations, from cramped interiors to distant wildlife, but if the telephoto range isn’t quite enough it can be extended digitally to a100x zoom, giving the equivalent of a 2400mm lens.
As well as the ability to shoot in shutter priority, aperture priority and manual exposure mode the SX50 HS can record images in raw format, making it even more attractive to experienced photographers. Less experienced users are also catered for though as there is a host of automatic exposure modes as well as JPEG recording.
On the whole images from the Canon SX50 HS impress, having plenty of detail, good exposure and pleasantly vibrant colors.
Read our full Canon SX50 HS review
Best waterproof and rugged cameras
Rugged or waterproof compact cameras allow you to take photographs in places that you wouldn’t dare use a normal camera.
They are a great choice for beach holidays and ideal for families with children that might want to have a go at taking a photograph. Here are some of the best around.
Olympus TG-2
Price: $ 380
Specs: Waterproof to 50 feet, accepts filters and conversion lenses, GPS and digital compass, macro LED light
As with the Olympus TG-1, one of the most exciting aspects of the Olympus TG-2′s lens is that it has an aperture range of f/2-4.9. This means that at the shortest focal length a wide aperture is available, which enables you to use fast shutter speeds when light levels fall.
Modern extras include GPS technology and an electronic compass built-in to record where you take your pictures, along with FlashAir card compatibility to enable wireless sharing of images on social media via your smartphone.
It’s also possible to shoot Full HD movies with stereo sound and record video at up to 240fps (frames per second) for slow motion playback.
Modern extras include GPS technology and an electronic compass built-in to record where you take your pictures, along with FlashAir card compatibility to enable wireless sharing of images on social media via your smartphone.
Read our full Olympus TG-2 review
Canon PowerShot D20
Price: $ 296
Specs: 12.1MP 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, 5x optical zoom, 1080p HD video, 3-inch screen
Canon’s rough-and-ready PowerShot provides a good range of beginner-friendly photography features, as well as advanced camera technologies. Along with intuitive point-and-shoot modes, there’s a selection of underwater shooting options to make aquatic photo capturing a stress-free experience. Some handling issues – both underwater and on dry land – take a bit of the shine off this camera’s overall performance. But what this compact lacks in speed, it makes up for in image quality.
The build quality and ability of this camera to produce consistently well-exposed, detailed images can’t be faulted, and additional features such as built-in GPS and Full HD video mode broaden the Canon D20′s appeal. It’s got a lot to offer, but if you’re after an everyday rugged all-rounder, some similarly priced rivals may offer a more comprehensive package.
Read our full Canon PowerShot D20 review
Panasonic TS4
Price: $ 280
Specs: 12.1MP 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor, 4.6x optical zoom, 1080p HD video, 2.7-inch screen
One of the higher-priced rugged compact cameras, the Panasonic TS4 (or FT4 in the UK) is a feature-packed compact with a superb level of protective attributes. Waterproof to a depth of 12m, the Panasonic Lumix TS4 enables you to explore greater depths than with many if its competitors, plus it’s shockproof if dropped from a height of up to 7 ft, and freeze-proof down to 14F.
Built-in GPS, plus a compass, altimeter and barometer all add to the Panasonic Lumix TS4′s appeal for adventure-bound photographers, while Full HD movie recording and a respectable all-round image performance makes this a decent choice for active families in search of a reliable camera, with the ability to take more punishment than your average compact.
Read our full Panasonic TS4 review
Sony Cyber-Shot TX20
Price: $ 200
Specs: 16.2MP 1/2.3-inch Exmor R CMOS sensor, 8x optical zoom, 1080p HD video, 3-inch screen
This svelte little camera is worlds apart from many of its rivals in terms of looks. The Sony TX20′s petite profile – being just 17.9mm thick – coupled with its sleek lines makes this camera perfectly pocketable. The sliding front cover is designed to offer some added protection for the lens when the camera’s powered down, and has the added bonus of ensuring that the front panel remains perfectly flat when not in use.
The touchscreen interface may not be for everyone, and it limits this rugged camera’s usefulness when trying to operate it with gloved hands, but its general responsiveness impresses, and the on-screen controls make the Sony Cyber-Shot TX20 simple to operate. It may not be as rugged as some of its beefier rivals, but the Sony TX20 is a solid choice for photographers who want extra peace of mind – and style – when out and about.
Read our full Sony TX20 review
Fujifilm FinePix XP170
Price: $ 180
Specs: 14MP 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, 5x optical zoom, 1080p HD video, 2.7-inch screen
In spite of its lower price point, the Fujifilm Finepix XP170 is brimming with impressive features, including a very good Full HD movie mode, built-in GPS and Wi-Fi. Distinctive, chunky styling ensures a firm grip on the camera, and added extras such as an LED light aid low-light shooting.
It’s not perfect in every aspect, but the Fuji XP170 impresses with its ability to reproduce lifelike, faithfully colored images – including seamless auto-stitched panoramas – and with its extensive battery life, despite some of the potentially power-sapping features it has to offer.
Best travel compacts and all-rounders
Panasonic ZS30
Price: $ 400
Specs: 18.1MP, 20x optical zoom, 920k touch-screen resolution, built-in Wifi with NFC, Full HD 1080p
If you’re not bothered by having a touch-sensitive LCD display, or prefer to use physical buttons, then the Panasonic ZS30 is worthy of consideration – especially if you’re equally unbothered about GPS and Wi-Fi functionality.
It’s fairly remarkable that a 20x optical zoom can fit into a body of this pocket-friendly size. It’s an extremely flexible option for vacationing photographers, with the GPS functionality proving a valuable addition for plotting the exact locations of your shots.
Although Wi-Fi is a useful addition, it could be better implemented, perhaps by giving you the ability to email a picture, rather than sharing only via the Lumix network.
Overall, this is an excellent camera, which should be one of the highest considerations for those looking for the ideal travel compact that offers more than some of the standard options on the market.
Read our full Panasonic ZS30 review
Nikon Coolpix S9500
Price: $ 350
Specs: 18.1MP, 22x optical zoom, 1/2.3 in. sensor size with back illumination, 3D, GPS, Wi-Fi, subject-tracking autofocus, 1080p video
The Nikon S9500 is at the top of the brand’s style range of digital compact cameras, and is designed for beginners and casual users.
In the hand, the S9500′s body feels substantial without leaving you in any doubt that it is a camera you’re meant to have fun with.
As is to be expected from a camera in this range, Nikon is providing a device filled with all the frills and thrills (3D, GPS, Wi-Fi, subject-tracking autofocus) and if the camera’s built-in GPS and electronic compass is turned on, geolocation metadata will be added onto your images.
The Nikon S9500 offers great image stabilization on a long zoom range for a camera of this size. It looks good, feels nice, and is versatile and compact with a bright screen. There are lots of scene modes to get creative with, and most of the features you could hope for in a camera at this price point.
Read the full Nikon S9500 review
Canon PowerShot SX280 HS
Price: $ 329
Specs: 12.1MP, 20x optical zoom, GPS, Wi-Fi,1080p video capture
Canon’s SX280 is a very appealing proposition for anybody looking for a decent travel compact camera that offers lots of control over different settings, as well as a high zoom ratio and pocket-friendly proportions.
Its pictures display a good range of color and plenty of detail, and low light performance is admirable. Keeping the pixel count down to 12.1 million pixels may seem strange in this age where most companies are pushing 16-18 million pixel sensored devices, but we think this relatively low resolution helps with the low light and low noise performance.
What we have here is an excellent and well performing compact camera that offers lots of flexibility both to beginner users and those looking for something a little more advanced.
Read our Canon SX280 review
Nikon Coolpix S6400
Price: $ 250
Specs: 16MP CMOS sensor, 12x optical zoom , Full HD video
The Nikon Coolpix S6400 appears to have just about everything you want from a digital compact camera of its class. With a 12x optical zoom, 3-inch 460,000-dot touchscreen, 16 megapixel backlit CMOS sensor, Full HD video recording, a host of direct controls, 20 scene modes, small, lightweight body and a modest price tag, what more could you ask for?
The Nikon S6400 does a number of things pretty well and offers a lot of flexibility, from its wide range of creative filters to its responsive touchscreen, accurate AF system on down to the all-important thing: great image quality.
Read our full Nikon Coolpix S6400 review
Samsung Galaxy Camera
Price: $ 400
Specs: 16MP 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, 21x optical zoom, Full HD video, Wi-Fi and 3G
It’s not really a surprise that Samsung, a company that makes both Android smartphones and dedicated cameras, should decide to merge the best aspects of these two devices to create the Samsung Galaxy Camera.
The combination of a compact camera-sized sensor and a 21x optical zoom lens in a relatively thin body with a huge (by camera standards) touchscreen is very enticing. And an Android operating system and Wi-Fi tools stand out from the crowd. The good news is that this isn’t all window dressing – the Samsung Galaxy Camera delivers the goods.
Read our full Samsung Galaxy Camera review
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