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Digital point-and-shoot cameras were once the preference of many a family photographer, but smartphones have overtaken them in popularity, ease of use, and imaging acumen in recent years. However, even if you’ve got the latest iPhone, Galaxy, or Pixel in your pocket, a dedicated camera might still offer superior ergonomics, more zoom power, a larger image sensor, and tougher build quality.Below are the top point-and-shoots we’ve tested, along with some helpful buying advice for this compact camera segment. Just note that some of these models may be on backorder or otherwise hard to find at retail.
Since 1982, PCMag has tested and rated thousands of products to help you make better buying decisions. See how we test.
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII
Best Premium Travel Camera
Why We Picked ItThe Sony RX100 VII is the ultimate travel camera. It slides into a pocket and pairs a 24-200mm zoom lens with a 20MP Type 1 image sensor. It also hides a pop-up electronic viewfinder in its frame. It’s one of the most expensive compacts available, but you get top-flight picture quality and a killer lens for the money.Who It’s ForCreators who prefer the ergonomics of a real camera over a smartphone are the target market here. The RX100 VII keeps up with the latest iPhone Pros in picture quality and has an ample zoom lens, but it’s the ability to engage the EVF and bring the camera to your eye that really sells it over smartphones.
PROS
Sharp 8x zoom lens.
Electronic viewfinder.
1-inch sensor design.
20fps capture with subject tracking.
Eye detection for people and pets.
Tilting touch screen.
4K video with external microphone port.
CONS
Expensive.
Can’t start video while images are writing to card.
Limited touch functions.
SPECS
Name
Value
Dimensions
2.3 by 4.0 by 1.7 inches
Weight
10.7 oz
Type
Compact
Sensor Resolution
20 MP
Sensor Type
BSI CMOS
Sensor Size
1″ (13.2 x 8.8mm)
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
SDXC (UHS-I), Memory Stick Duo
Battery Type
Sony NP-BX1
Minimum ISO
64
Maximum ISO
25600
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
24 mm
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
200 mm
Optical Zoom
8.3 x
Stabilization
Optical
Display Size
3 inches
Display Resolution
921600 dots
Touch Screen
Viewfinder Type
EVF
Viewfinder Magnification
0.59x
EVF Resolution
2.36 million dots
Connectivity
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Microphone (3.5mm), micro USB, micro HDMI
Maximum Waterproof Depth
0 feet
Video Resolution
4K
HDMI Output
4:2:2 8-bit
Flat Profile
Learn More
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII Review
Kodak Ektar H35
Best Starter Film Camera
Why We Picked ItFilm photography is enjoying another renaissance with a new generation of creators looking to film chemistry as a welcome alternative to digital capture. The Kodak Ektar H35 is an all-plastic film camera—even the lens is plastic—that comes with an aggressive $50 sticker price. The H35’s neatest trick is its half-frame capture—you get 72 shots on a roll of film, not 36, a good thing when a roll of film costs as much as a takeout lunch.Who It’s ForThe H35 is a good fit for anyone who wants to try taking some film photos but doesn’t want to deal with shopping for a used film SLR or rangefinder. The ease of one-button operation makes it possible for anyone to get quality snapshots and there’s some charm to the images you get from a plastic lens.
PROS
Works with standard 35mm film cartridges
Half-frame capture gets 72 shots per roll
Attractive design and price
Retro, analog charm
One-button operation
AAA power for flash
CONS
Easy to forget to turn off flash
Plastic lens struggles against backlight
SPECS
Name
Value
Dimensions
2.4 by 4.3 by 1.5 inches
Weight
3.5 oz
Type
Analog
Sensor Resolution
Sensor Type
Sensor Size
Memory Card Slots
0
Memory Card Format
Battery Type
AAA
Minimum ISO
Maximum ISO
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
Optical Zoom
Stabilization
None
Display Size
Display Resolution
Touch Screen
Viewfinder Type
Optical
Viewfinder Magnification
EVF Resolution
Connectivity
None
Maximum Waterproof Depth
Video Resolution
None
HDMI Output
None
Flat Profile
Learn More
Kodak Ektar H35 Review
Ricoh GR IIIx
Best Image Quality From a Pocketable Camera
Why We Picked ItThe Ricoh GR IIIx puts a lot of camera into a pocketable design. First off, there’s the 24MP sensor with sensor-shift stabilization and the same APS-C dimensions as you find in swappable lens cameras. The lens is a wide standard 40mm f/2.8 with a macro mode and responsive phase detection autofocus. If you prefer a wider view, Ricoh also makes the GR III, which is the same camera just with a wider 28mm lens.Who It’s ForThe Ricoh GR series enjoys a bit of cult status among photo nerds. Pros and artists who don’t always want to carry a big camera and aren’t satisfied using a phone should enjoy it in particular. It’s a small camera but has smart on-body controls and picture quality that goes toe-to-toe with swappable lens models.
PROS
APS-C sensor in a pocketable design
Tack-sharp 40mm F2.8 equivalent lens
3-axis stabilization
Quick autofocus and instant Snap Focus
Bright touch screen
Telephoto conversion lens available
CONS
Short battery life
Omits dust and splash protection
No in-body flash
External optical viewfinder is a pricey add-on
SPECS
Name
Value
Dimensions
2.4 by 4.3 by 1.4 inches
Weight
9.2 oz
Type
Compact
Sensor Resolution
24 MP
Sensor Type
CMOS
Sensor Size
APS-C
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
SDXC (UHS-I)
Battery Type
Ricoh DB-110
Minimum ISO
100
Maximum ISO
102400
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
40 mm
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
Optical Zoom
Stabilization
3-axis IBIS
Display Size
3 inches
Display Resolution
1.04 million dots
Touch Screen
Viewfinder Type
Viewfinder Magnification
EVF Resolution
Connectivity
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C
Maximum Waterproof Depth
0 feet
Video Resolution
1080p
HDMI Output
None
Flat Profile
Learn More
Ricoh GR IIIx Review
Leica Q3
Best Luxury Compact Camera
Why We Picked ItThe Leica Q3 is about as luxe as it gets. The fixed-lens beauty features 28mm F1.7 optics and a 60MP full-frame sensor, along with a high-gloss black metal body with IP52 weather protection. Add a quality EVF, good macro capabilities, and 8K video, and you might find a reason to drop nearly six grand on a camera.Who It’s ForLet’s face it: Leica is an expensive brand and you should consider the Q3 only if you have lots of money to spare. But if you can afford it, this small camera is perfectly suitable for everyday photography, world travel, and anything in between.
PROS
Gorgeous 28mm F1.7 lens
Full-frame sensor with multi-resolution support
In-camera crop adds versatility
Focuses close-up
Tilting, touch-sensitive LCD
Big, sharp EVF
IP52 rating
8K and 4K video recording
CONS
Pricey
No built-in storage
Middling built-in mic limits video potential
Battery life could be better
SPECS
Name
Value
Dimensions
3.2 by 5.1 by 3.6 inches
Weight
1.6 lb
Type
Compact
Sensor Resolution
60 MP
Sensor Type
BSI CMOS
Sensor Size
Full-Frame
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
SDXC (UHS-II)
Battery Type
Leica BP-SCL6
Minimum ISO
50
Maximum ISO
100000
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
28 mm
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
Optical Zoom
Stabilization
Optical
Display Size
3.0 inches
Display Resolution
1.84 million dots
Touch Screen
Viewfinder Type
EVF
Viewfinder Magnification
0.76x
EVF Resolution
5.8 million dots
Connectivity
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C, micro HDMI
Maximum Waterproof Depth
0 feet
Video Resolution
8K
HDMI Output
4:2:2 10-bit
Flat Profile
Learn More
Leica Q3 Review
Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo
Best for Digital Capture and Instant Prints
Why We Picked ItThe Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo is a clever mashup of digital and analog photography. The camera snaps basic quality digital shots with its 5MP sensor, plus has loads of in-camera creative filters so you can experiment and get creative. A built-in printer lets you make Instax Mini film photos from any photo you snap with the Evo, a feature that should be a hit with creatives and partygoers.Who It’s ForNo one will confuse the Instax Mini Evo for a pro camera and serious photographers might struggle with its simplistic controls and dull LCD panel. However, if you’re open to having some fun with photography, trying different filters, and making prints on-demand, the Evo serves as a charming digital-instant camera and a conversation starter at family gatherings.
PROS
Slick retro styling
Fun digital filter effects
Lets you print only what you want
Digital capture with chemical film prints
Bluetooth connection and smartphone app
CONS
Poor LCD quality
Inelegant controls
No in-camera editing tools
Can only send printed images to smartphone
5MP sensor isn’t anything special
SPECS
Name
Value
Dimensions
3.4 by 4.8 by 1.4 inches
Weight
10 oz
Type
Compact
Sensor Resolution
5 MP
Sensor Type
CMOS
Sensor Size
1/5-inch
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
microSDHC, microSD
Battery Type
Internal
Minimum ISO
100
Maximum ISO
1600
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
28 mm
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
Optical Zoom
Stabilization
None
Display Size
3 inches
Display Resolution
460000 dots
Touch Screen
Viewfinder Type
None
Viewfinder Magnification
EVF Resolution
Connectivity
Bluetooth, micro USB
Maximum Waterproof Depth
0 feet
Video Resolution
None
HDMI Output
None
Flat Profile
Learn More
Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Review
Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS200
Best Pocketable Zoom for Travel
Why We Picked ItThe Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS200 has the longest zoom lens in a pocketable Type 1 sensor camera. The 15x lens (24-360mm f/3.3-6.4) is good for landscapes and travel, plus is especially advantageous for trips to the zoo or a national park. Its eye-level viewfinder is not as large as the one in the Sony RX100 VII ($1,300), but the ZS200’s $700 asking price is a lot easier to stomach.Who It’s ForThis is a good camera for creators who care more about zoom power than low-light capture. It has the most zoom power of any Type 1 compact, so you can manage wide-angle views and zoom in to capture far-off subjects. If you want an RX100 VII, but can’t handle the price, the ZS200 might be the one for you.
PROS
15x zoom power.
20MP 1-inch image sensor.
9.4fps burst capture.
Raw image support.
Touch LCD.
Sharp 4K video.
Wi-Fi.
CONS
Narrow aperture.
EVF on the small side.
LCD doesn’t tilt.
Crop limits wide-angle 4K video capture.
SPECS
Name
Value
Dimensions
2.6 by 4.4 by 1.8 inches
Weight
12 oz
Type
Compact
Sensor Resolution
20 MP
Sensor Type
CMOS
Sensor Size
1″ (13.2 x 8.8mm)
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
SDXC (UHS-I)
Battery Type
Panasonic DMW-BLG10
Minimum ISO
80
Maximum ISO
25600
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
24 mm
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
360 mm
Optical Zoom
15 x
Stabilization
Optical
Display Size
3 inches
Display Resolution
1.24 million dots
Touch Screen
Viewfinder Type
EVF
Viewfinder Magnification
0.53x
EVF Resolution
2.3 million dots
Connectivity
Wi-Fi, micro HDMI, micro USB, Bluetooth
Maximum Waterproof Depth
0 feet
Video Resolution
4K
HDMI Output
Yes
Flat Profile
Learn More
Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS200 Review
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VA
Best in Low Light
Why We Picked ItSony invented the Type 1 premium compact with the original RX100 and launched several iterations over the years. The star of the fifth-generation camera remains the 24-70mm f/1.8-2.8 zoom lens, a low-light maven that’s also quite sharp. It also includes a pop-up OLED viewfinder.Who It’s ForThe RX100 VA is the Type 1 camera to get if you prefer a bright lens for low-light work instead of the dimmer, but longer-zooming 24-200mm f/2.8-4 in the newer RX100 VII. The 24-70mm zoom is a good match for wide shots and head-and-shoulder portraiture, plus has a useful macro capability. If you don’t need a viewfinder, think about the similar and more affordable Canon G7 X Mark III.
PROS
Larger sensor than smartphones.
Wide aperture lens.
Speedy autofocus and burst shooting.
In-lens neutral density filter.
4K video.
CONS
Restricted functionality after long bursts and slow-motion video capture.
Not a touch screen.
Expensive.
SPECS
Name
Value
Dimensions
2.3 x 4.0 x 1.6 inches
Weight
10.55 oz
Type
Compact
Sensor Resolution
20 MP
Sensor Type
BSI CMOS
Sensor Size
1″ (13.2 x 8.8mm)
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
SDXC (UHS-I), Memory Stick Duo
Battery Type
Sony NP-BX1
Minimum ISO
80
Maximum ISO
12800
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
24 mm
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
70 mm
Optical Zoom
2.9 x
Stabilization
Optical
Display Size
3 inches
Display Resolution
1228000 dots
Touch Screen
Viewfinder Type
EVF
Viewfinder Magnification
0.59x
EVF Resolution
2.36 million dots
Connectivity
micro HDMI, micro USB, Wi-Fi
Maximum Waterproof Depth
0 feet
Video Resolution
4K
HDMI Output
Yes
Flat Profile
Learn More
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VA Review
Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III
Best Canon Pocket Camera
Why We Picked ItThe Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III combines a Type 1 sensor with a bright 24-100mm f/1.8-2.8 zoom lens that produces excellent photos in dim light and draws soft, defocused backgrounds without the need for computational assists. A tilting touch screen serves as your viewfinder. Finally, the G7 supports live streaming and 4K video recording, too.Who It’s ForThe G7 X Mark III is a fine choice for creators who want a small, pocketable camera with some zoom power. Its controls should satisfy both beginners who rely on Auto mode and pros who want manual flexibility. The only thing missing is an eye-level viewfinder; you should spend more on a Sony RX100 series camera if that’s a must-have feature.
PROS
Pocket-friendly design.
1-inch sensor.
Bright zoom lens.
Tilting touch LCD.
Fast focus and burst rate.
4K with mic input and live streaming.
CONS
4K video not available in all modes.
Face detection doesn’t work with burst shooting.
Lens not as crisp as some others.
No EVF.
SPECS
Name
Value
Dimensions
2.4 by 4.1 by 1.6 inches
Weight
10.7 oz
Type
Compact
Sensor Resolution
20.1 MP
Sensor Type
BSI CMOS
Sensor Size
1″ (13.2 x 8.8mm)
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
SDXC (UHS-I)
Battery Type
Canon NB-13L
Minimum ISO
125
Maximum ISO
12800
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
25 mm
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
100 mm
Optical Zoom
4 x
Stabilization
Optical
Display Size
3 inches
Display Resolution
1.04 million dots
Touch Screen
Viewfinder Type
None
Viewfinder Magnification
EVF Resolution
Connectivity
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Microphone (3.5mm), USB-C, micro HDMI
Maximum Waterproof Depth
0 feet
Video Resolution
4K
HDMI Output
Yes
Flat Profile
Learn More
Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III Review
Sony ZV-1M2
Best Compact for Vloggers
Why We Picked ItCreators who prefer to make videos rather than photos need to look for a slightly different set of features than many of the other options on this list offer. The Sony ZV-1M2 puts its video foot forward. It uses a wide 18-50mm F1.8-4.0 zoom to get the broad view you want for self-recorded video, while a Type 1 sensor ensures sharp video and picture quality. We like its clear built-in mic too, but wish the camera had a higher-quality LCD for the price.Who It’s ForSony says the ZV series name directly references its target market: Gen-Z vloggers. We won’t pigeonhole video creators by age group, but the ZV-1M2 is the compact camera to get if you care more about video than stills. It even goes as far as to include some special focus and exposure modes for vloggers who review products while they are in the frame. It can also automatically adjust the exposure to keep your face properly bright if it falls into shadow during a recording.
PROS
Smooth, accurate autofocus
Several vlog-centric exposure modes
Quality in-camera audio
Effective digital stabilization
Bright, wide-angle zoom lens
CONS
Poor battery life
Outdated rear LCD
Omits headphone monitoring jack
SPECS
Name
Value
Dimensions
2.4 by 4.2 by 1.8 inches
Weight
10.3 oz
Type
Compact
Sensor Resolution
20 MP
Sensor Type
Stacked CMOS
Sensor Size
Type 1
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
SDXC (UHS-II)
Battery Type
Sony NP-BX1
Minimum ISO
80
Maximum ISO
12800
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
18 mm
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
50 mm
Optical Zoom
2.8 x
Stabilization
Digital
Display Size
3 inches
Display Resolution
921000 dots
Touch Screen
Viewfinder Type
None
Viewfinder Magnification
EVF Resolution
Connectivity
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C, micro HDMI, Microphone (3.5mm)
Maximum Waterproof Depth
0 feet
Video Resolution
4K
HDMI Output
4:2:0 8-bit
Flat Profile
Learn More
Sony ZV-1M2 Review
OM System TG-7
Best Waterproof and Rugged Camera
Why We Picked ItThere are only a few waterproof point-and-shoot cameras on sale these days, but the Olympus Tough TG series was a regular favorite even when the field was crowded. The TG-7 continues the tradition with a useful 24-100mm f/2.0-4.9 zoom lens that does a good job for underwater, low-light, and macro photography. The camera is practically indestructible and can go as deep as 50 feet underwater.Who It’s ForIf you’re looking to take photos in places where you wouldn’t dare take your smartphone, a tough point-and-shoot is a wise pick. The TG-7 is suitable for divers, hikers, and adventurers, and can survive other rough-and-tumble use. We like it better than an action camera for macro photos, too.
PROS
Rugged, waterproof pocket camera
Bright F2.0 aperture at widest angle
Large magnification for close-up focus
Add-on lenses and flash modifiers available
CONS
Expensive
Rear screen doesn’t support touch
Picture quality lags behind smartphones
Underwhelming video features
SPECS
Name
Value
Dimensions
2.6 by 4.5 by 1.3 inches
Weight
8.8 oz
Type
Compact
Sensor Resolution
12 MP
Sensor Type
BSI CMOS
Sensor Size
Type 1/2.3
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
SDXC (UHS-I)
Battery Type
Olympus LI-92B
Minimum ISO
100
Maximum ISO
12800
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
25 mm
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
100 mm
Optical Zoom
4 x
Stabilization
Optical
Display Size
3.0 inches
Display Resolution
1.04 million dots
Touch Screen
Viewfinder Type
None
Viewfinder Magnification
EVF Resolution
Connectivity
Bluetooth, GPS, USB-C, Wi-Fi, micro HDMI
Maximum Waterproof Depth
50 feet
Video Resolution
4K
HDMI Output
Yes
Flat Profile
Learn More
OM System TG-7 Review
Buying Guide: The Best Point-and-Shoot Cameras for 2024
What Cameras Can You Get on a Tight Budget?Compact cameras come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from pocketable models with zoom lenses to premium fixed-lens entries from Fujifilm and Leica. We cover the high-end options further down the page, but if you’re after a superzoom model, check out our picks for the best bridge cameras. Bridge cameras are larger and won’t fit in your pocket, but they offer far more zoom power than smartphones.
The Panasonic ZS200 has a Type 1 sensor and a long zoom lens (Credit: Zlata Ivleva)
The once-thriving budget camera market is pretty much dead at this point. You can pick up an instant hybrid camera like the Fuji Instax Mini Evo for around $200, or a special-use option like the Canon PowerShot Zoom monocular for around $300, but expect to spend more for a pocketable compact from a major brand. The Canon PowerShot Elph 360 HS is the company’s least expensive option and costs a healthy $330 (if you can find it in stock), while the $480 SX740 HS is a little easier to find. Nikon’s current entry option, the Coolpix A1000 also comes in at $480.
How PCMag Tests Digital Cameras
We recommend you shop based on brand in the $500-and-under price range. You are likely to have the best luck with Canon, Fujifilm, Nikon, OM System, Panasonic, Ricoh, or Sony. Skip digital cameras from other brands, including famous photo names like Kodak and Vivitar—these are licensed products and not of high quality.Spending More on a Point-and-Shoot Camera Is Worth ItYou have more options and can walk away with a better camera if you spend a bit more. For around $550, you can get our favorite waterproof model, the OM Tough TG-7. It’s not quite indestructible, but it offers a 50-foot waterproof rating (which is good for divers), high-magnification macro capabilities, and an f/2 lens for use in dimmer light. It’s a worthwhile (if pricey) camera to take places where you wouldn’t risk your smartphone.
OM System Tough TG-7 can survive submersion (Credit: Jim Fisher)
If you don’t need a tough camera, look for a model with a Type 1 (or 1-inch class) image sensor. The Panasonic ZS200D is the same camera as the ZS200 we reviewed and a good value option with ample zoom power; it sells for around $700.You can spend more on a Sony RX100 series, or get a ZV series Sony if you’re into vlogging and video. The Canon G7 X Mark III is an excellent alternative, too.On the very high end, you can opt for a camera with a sensor as large as you get with interchangeable lens models. The Ricoh GR III and IIIx are fan favorites thanks to sharp lenses and enthusiast-tilted controls but lack mass market appeal.
Recommended by Our Editors
Conversely, the Fuji X100 series has been a critical and commercial hit to the point that Fuji had a hard time keeping up with the demand for the X100V—once the camera took off, it went into constant backorder. The recently announced X100VI is already setting pre-order records, too. We’ve not yet done a full review of the X100VI but took a preproduction sample out for a test drive and walked away very happy.
Fuji X100VI (Credit: Jim Fisher)
If you’re a luxury shopper, you can go full-frame. The Leica Q3, Q2 Monochrom, and Sony RX1R II represent the current crop of fixed-lens cameras with full-format image sensors. They’re all multi-thousand-dollar propositions, but enthusiasts who can afford them are sure to enjoy the experience and get stunning photos along the way.Beyond the Confines of Your PocketIf you’re looking for something a bit more capable than a pocket camera, you can check out our overall favorites from across all camera categories or use a mirrorless camera alongside swappable lenses to document your life.
