You’re in the market for a camera, but there are just so many to choose from! Don’t worry, we have limited down to ten of the best point and shoot cameras. So what is the Best Point and Shoot Camera? Well, it is by far the best type of camera for travel or basic beginners because all you have to do is… you got it… point and shoot.
Some of the things to consider when purchasing one is your skill level, budget, and needs. Do you need it to connect through WiFi? Do you need a 4K video for your vlog? We have found something for everyone’s needs and budget. Take a look!
Why Do You Need a Point and Shoot Camera?
When it comes to investing in the best point and shoot camera, there are many reasons why having one on hand is the best way to go. If you are a photographer, then you know the hassle of having to carry around your gear with you everywhere you go. Not only is photography gear bulky, but it can be difficult to make sure that you are keeping your gear nice and safe.
With a point and shoot camera on hand, you do not have to worry about that. The compact size of a point and shoot camera makes it one of the best as far as carrying it around without it getting in your way.
Perhaps another one of the best features of a point and shoot camera is the fact that anyone can use it. With many DSLR cameras, the user needs to have a basic understanding of how to focus, zoom in, and shoot the shot. Wit a point and shoot camera, you do not have to worry about any of that. The ease of use is literally in the name of the camera. You simply point it at the subject you want to photograph and then you shoot your shot.
Lastly, having a point and shoot camera on hand is perfect for those who are looking for a good backup camera to have when you are traveling around. They are the perfect solution for snapping great shots without thinking about it too hard.
10. Canon PowerShot SX620 Digital Camera
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This point and shoot camera by Canon has a 25X zoom with intelligent image stabilization for shake-free images. It has built-in WiFi and NFC (near field communication) to easily upload or transfer pictures.
The 20.2 megapixel CMOS sensor with a DIGIC 4+ image processor helps this camera produce quality photos even in low lighting. Not only does it capture stunning photos, it also can capture full 1080p full HD video.
And don’t worry about trying to see what you’re doing because it has a large 3 inch LCD display that will even show you wide angle! The best feature? You can connect your smartphone and use it to take a picture from afar- perfect for group photos!
Pros:
- Built-in WiFi and NFC
- 25X zoom
- 1080p HD video capabilities
- 3 inch LCD screen
Cons:
- Not all smartphones are compatible
- Flash is not automatic
- A bit bulkier than some other point and shoots
9. Canon PowerShot ELPH 180 Digital Camera
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Canon is back at it again with another great point and shoot camera. The PowerShot ELPH 180 has 8X optical zoom with a digital image stabilizer for clearer pictures. It can shoot 720p HD video and has scene mode like the fisheye effect for some fun features to switch it up.
And don’t forget about the smart zoom function and the eco-mode that conserves battery, great for long trips! This point and shoot is a great value and comes in two colors (silver and red).
Pros:
- Fun scene modes
- Eco-mode
- Great value
Cons:
- Only 8X zoom and 720p video
- The stabilization on the video is a little shaky
8. Canon Powershot SX720 HS
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So far Canon is dominating the list and for a great reason: they’ve been developing some great point and shoot cameras as they should since they have been in the photography world for years.
The PowerShot SX720 has a 40X optical zoom with intelligent image stabilization as well as a 20.3 megapixel CMOS sensor with a DIGIC 6 image processor all of which help deliver stunning, shake-free images even in low light. And of course there are not just great images, but 1080p HD video with stereo sound, too.
It has a 3 inch LCD screen so you can see those wide-angle shots, too. It is a bit more expensive than some of the others on our list, but you really can’t beat the quality and number of great features.
Pros:
- 40X optical zoom
- 1080p HD video with stereo sound
- Wifi and NFC
- Zoom framing assist
Cons:
- A bit on the expensive side
- Some have had a problem receiving a “gray market” item instead of what they ordered
7. Sony DSCW830 20.1 Megapixel Digital Camera
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Sony brings some competition to the scene with 20.1 megapixels and an 8x optical zoom with optical SteadyShot image stabilization mode. For video, the DSCW830 takes 720p MP4 HD footage that is compatible with iMovie and Final Cut Pro.
It has panorama shooting and over 10 movie and video effects built in as well. This is a perfect beginner’s camera with the intelligent auto mode that automatically thinks for you. No need to know all the technical stuff!
Pros:
- Intelligent auto mode
- Affordable
- Video footage compatible with iMovie and Final Cut Pro
Cons:
- Only 8X optical zoom and 720p video
- Body is plastic and not metal
- Only a 2.7 inch screen
6. Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II Digital Camera
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This is another one from the Canon PowerShot series and though it is the most expensive of the series, it has some features that set it apart like the DIGIC 7 image processor which is the fastest on our list.
It is also one of the most lightweight and portable. It can take 1080p HD video and has a time-lapse movie function and 8.2 fps continuous shooting. Additionally, it has all the connectivity you could want with built-in Wifi, NFC, and Bluetooth for easy sharing.
Pros:
- DIGIC 7 image processor
- Lightweight and portable
- Built-in Wifi, NFC, and Bluetooth
Cons:
- One the expensive side
- Only 3X optical zoom
5. Panasonic Lumix 4K Point and Shoot
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This Panasonic Lumix 4K brings heavy competition to the point and shoot market with its 30 optical zooms, 18-megapixel sensor and 4k Ultra HD video. Not only is there 4K video, but also the exclusive Lumix 4K photo and 4K post focus photo capture.
The LCD is a touchscreen for easy usability and the lens has a mounted control ring that brings DSLR features to a point and shoot. This is a point and shoot that takes high-quality photo and video for a decent price.
Pros:
- 4K video and photo
- Touchscreen LCD
- DSLR exposure control
Cons:
- Heavier and larger than some point and shoots
- Has numerous features that might be difficult for a beginner to figure out
4. Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 Digital Camera
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Canon, which is clearly dominating the point and shoot market have another one. This one, the ELPH 360, has a 12X optical zoom with image stabilizer, built-in WiFi and NFC for easy sharing, and 1080p HD video capabilities.
It can be directly connected to Canon photo printers and has a Hybrid Auto feature which lets you record up to four seconds of video before each captured image. How cool is that? It also has some other creative features like creative shot mode and story highlights all at a moderate cost.
Pros:
- Built-in Wifi and NFC
- Hybrid Auto feature
- Creativity features
Cons:
- Only 12X optical zoom
- No metal body
3. Sony DSCHZ80/B High Zoom Point and Shoot
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This point and shoot has so many features it’s almost hard to keep up. It has a 30X optical zoom with a 60X clear image zoom, an Exmor R CMOS sensor for low light images, Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, 5 axis image stabilization and loads of customizable settings. Another perk?
The screen tilts 180 degrees for high quality selfies! It also shoots video in 1080p HD with a few different formats you can choose from. It is at a higher price point, but in all fairness, it is completely customizable and has been raved about as the perfect travel camera!
Pros:
- 180 degree screen tilt for selfies
- WiFi and NFC
- Great for travel
Cons:
- Some of the video formats will not work with Apple products
- Higher price point
2. Nikon CoolPix S9900 Digital Camera
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The CoolPix S9900 by Nikon has a 30X optical zoom with vibration reduction and a 60X dynamic fine zoom which effectively doubles your zoom reach. Additionally, it has a swiveling display, a 3 inch LCD and is WiFi and NFC compatible for easy sharing.
If that wasn’t enough it also comes with 1080p HD video as we would expect. It also has GPS built in to be able to see the location of the pictures directly on the camera which also allows you to see other points of interest and create amazing photo journals.
Pros:
- 60X dynamic fine zoom
- Swiveling display
- Built-in GPS
- Full manual exposure control
Cons:
- Manually raised flash
- A little heavier than most point and shoots
1. Sony RX100 Premium Compact Digital Camera
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This RX100 by Sony has many impressive features such as the steady-shot image stabilization, a front control ring, and a rear control dial. It also has burst mode at 10 fps and 1080p video with dual record and manual control. The body is aluminum for durability and it has all kinds of additional functions for experienced photographers.
Pros:
- Front control ring
- Aluminum body
- Great for experienced photographers
Cons:
- Records in 29-minute intervals
- The product manual could be better at explaining the use
So Which Should You Use?
Out of this list, we would definitely have to pick the Pansonic Lumix 4K Point and Shoot. It’s sleek, has 4K video and photo, the LCD is touchscreen and it is at a moderate price point.
It is perfect on auto for beginners but also has many DSLR features for the more experienced. Don’t take it from us though, go check this one out!