Today’s smartphones are world-class picture-making machines, so it’s no surprise that many casual snappers and family photographers have traded away a basic pocket camera. Point-and-shoot cameras aren’t obsolete, though many made today target photo hobbyists and content creators. PCMag has two decades of experience covering cameras so we know what we’re talking about. We evaluate all aspects of a camera through a combination of studio and field testing, and our list below offers excellent options for all budgets and use cases. Our favorite picks range from the premium Fuji X100VI, which is as stylish as it is fun to use, the premium pocket zoom Sony RX100 VII, and the Instax Mini 12 for wallet-size instant film prints.
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
Best Compact Camera for Photo Enthusiasts
Fujifilm X100VI
- Stunning retro industrial design
- Magnesium and aluminum build materials
- Clever optical-electronic hybrid viewfinder
- Stabilized 40MP image sensor with digital zoom
- Wide-aperture prime lens with built-in ND filter
- Robust, dial-driven controls
- Light, carry-friendly frame
- Requires accessories for full weather protection
The Fujifilm X100VI delivers a rare combination of style and substance. Its retro exterior calls back to rangefinder cameras from the manual focus film era, but there’s plenty under the surface, too. A bright 35mm f/2 equivalent prime lens means you can stretch shutter speeds and get sharp photos in all kinds of light, while a stabilized 40MP sensor lets you crop in for a tighter view. An eye-level viewfinder (EVF) swaps between an optical and electronic view, and the rear touch screen tilts so you can shoot from more interesting angles. Thoughtful control dials round out the package and make it simple to set the exposure.
The X100VI appeals to creators of all skill levels. Its imaging engine captures the best JPGs in the industry, and Raw support is available for photographers who want to edit photos on a computer. The discrete controls should satisfy creators who love manual mode, and automatic operation is available as well. And despite its film camera looks, 6.2K video recording is available, too. The only problem is finding one in stock—demand for the X100VI is outpacing supply, so you should expect to wait weeks or months for delivery.
Dimensions
2.9 by 5.0 by 2.2 inches
Weight
1.2 lb
Type
Compact
Sensor Resolution
40 MP
Sensor Type
X-Trans BSI CMOS
Sensor Size
APS-C
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
SDXC (UHS-I)
Battery Type
Fujifilm NP-W126S
Minimum ISO
64
Maximum ISO
51200
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
35 mm
Stabilization
5-Axis IBIS
Display Size
3.0 inches
Display Resolution
1.62 million dots
Viewfinder Type
Hybrid
EVF Resolution
3.69 million dots
Connectivity
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C, Microphone (2.5mm)
Video Resolution
6.2K
HDMI Output
Yes
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Best Pocket Video Camera
DJI Osmo Pocket 3
- Large image sensor excels in dim light
- Excellent battery life
- Records long clips without overheating
- Built-in wireless mic support
- USB-C charging
- Not rugged or weatherproof
- Costs more than the Pocket 2
The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is among the best small cameras for videos and vlogs. It lives up to its name with a small form factor, and gimbal stabilization makes it ideal for handheld recording. A Type 1 sensor does a great job in all kinds of light, and we like that the camera easily swaps between widescreen and vertical aspect ratios.
The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is a bit of a square peg among point-and-shoot cameras, most of which have form factors and feature sets that prioritize photos. However, vloggers and other creators who prefer making movies won’t struggle to find reasons to add it to their kit.
Dimensions
5.6 by 1.6 by 1.2 inches
Weight
6.4 oz
Type
Compact
Sensor Size
Type 1
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
microSDXC
Battery Type
Internal
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
20 mm
Stabilization
Gimbal
Display Size
2 inches
Connectivity
USB-C, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Video Resolution
4K
HDMI Output
None
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Best Analog Instant Camera
Fujifilm Instax Mini 12
- Improved one-button operation
- Selfie mirror and close-focus support
- Works with black-and-white or color Instax Mini film
- AA battery power
- Affordable
- Omits tripod socket
- No double exposure or other artsy features
The Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 is the best low-cost instant camera out there. It works with the Mini film format, snaps wallet-sized photos, provides the convenience of one-button operation, and even includes a mirror next to the lens so you can get the angle right for your selfies. We love its price, and Mini film provides consistent, quality results. You can even get black-and-white film for the camera if you want to channel your inner Ansel Adams.
The Mini 12 is the perfect camera for anyone who wants a no-frills instant that’s easy to use and snaps tactile, shareable shots. You have to keep it loaded with film, so take the cost of Mini cartridges (around $0.70 per photo) into account. If you prefer to print on demand, look at the digital Instax Mini Evo instead (it’s a bit further down on the list). And if you want an analog instant with more creative features and manual exposure control, the Mini 99 is a worthwhile upgrade.
Dimensions
4.8 by 4.2 by 2.7 inches
Weight
10.3 oz
Type
Analog
Battery Type
AA
Viewfinder Type
Optical
Maximum Waterproof Depth
0 feet
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Best Premium Long Zoom Camera
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII
- 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.
- Expensive.
- Can’t start video while images are writing to card.
- Limited touch functions.
The 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.
Creators 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.
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
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
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Best Starter Film Camera
Kodak Ektar H35N
- Simple, single-button operation
- Gets 2x more images per roll than most 35mm film cams
- Low cost of entry
- Tripod socket and bulb mode for long exposures
- Built-in star filter and support for 30.5mm threaded filters
- Convenient AAA battery power for flash
- Lens suffers in backlit scenarios
- Not capable of close-up or macro images
Film 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 H35N is an all-plastic film camera that comes with an impulse-worthy $65 sticker price and includes a bulb mode for long exposures, a lens with a glass element, and a built-in star filter that you can turn on or off as desired. The H35N’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.
The H35N is a good fit for anyone who wants to try taking some film photos but doesn’t want to take a chance on an old thrift store film camera. It’s easy to use and more economical than full-frame film cameras, and the star filter can add some interesting effects to scenes with bright points of light. If you want to spend even less, you can get the standard H35 for around $40, but you’ll miss out on the star filter and bulb mode and lose a little bit of sharpness in pictures due to its all-plastic lens.
Dimensions
2.4 by 4.3 by 1.5 inches
Weight
3.9 oz
Type
Analog
Battery Type
AAA
Viewfinder Type
Optical
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Best Shirt Pocket Camera
Ricoh GR IIIx
- 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
- Short battery life
- Omits dust and splash protection
- No in-body flash
- External optical viewfinder is a pricey add-on
The Ricoh GR IIIx puts a lot of camera into a pocketable design. First, there’s the 24MP sensor with sensor-shift stabilization and the same APS-C dimensions as 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, as well as the GR III HDF and IIIx HDF, both of which swap out the in-lens neutral density filter for a soft focus effect filter.
The 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.
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
Stabilization
3-axis IBIS
Display Size
3 inches
Display Resolution
1.04 million dots
Connectivity
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C
Maximum Waterproof Depth
0 feet
Video Resolution
1080p
HDMI Output
None
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Best Full-Frame Compact Camera
Leica Q3
- 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
- Pricey
- No built-in storage
- Middling built-in mic limits video potential
- Battery life could be better
The 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.
Let’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.
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
Stabilization
Optical
Display Size
3.0 inches
Display Resolution
1.84 million dots
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
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Best for Digital Capture and Instant Prints
Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo
- 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
- Poor LCD quality
- Inelegant controls
- No in-camera editing tools
- Can only send printed images to smartphone
- 5MP sensor isn’t anything special
The 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.
No 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.
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
Stabilization
None
Display Size
3 inches
Display Resolution
460000 dots
Viewfinder Type
None
Connectivity
Bluetooth, micro USB
Maximum Waterproof Depth
0 feet
Video Resolution
None
HDMI Output
None
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Best Hybrid for Video and Stills
Sony ZV-1M2
- Smooth, accurate autofocus
- Several vlog-centric exposure modes
- Quality in-camera audio
- Effective digital stabilization
- Bright, wide-angle zoom lens
- Poor battery life
- Outdated rear LCD
- Omits headphone monitoring jack
Creators 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.
Sony 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.
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
Viewfinder Type
None
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
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Best Waterproof and Rugged Camera
OM System TG-7
- Rugged, waterproof pocket camera
- Bright F2.0 aperture at widest angle
- Large magnification for close-up focus
- Add-on lenses and flash modifiers available
- Expensive
- Rear screen doesn’t support touch
- Picture quality lags behind smartphones
- Underwhelming video features
There 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.
If 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.
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
Viewfinder Type
None
Connectivity
Bluetooth, GPS, USB-C, Wi-Fi, micro HDMI
Maximum Waterproof Depth
50 feet
Video Resolution
4K
HDMI Output
Yes
Learn More
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, 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.
How PCMag Tests Digital Cameras
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.
We recommend you shop based on brand in the $500-and-under price range. You will likely 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 It
If you spend a bit more, you have more options and can walk away with a better camera. For around $550, you can get our favorite waterproof model, the OM Tough TG-7. It’s not quite indestructible but offers a 50-foot waterproof rating (good for divers), high-magnification macro capabilities, and an f/2 lens for use in dimmer light. It’s a worthwhile (if pricey) camera for taking 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. Good options for photographers in this class include cameras in the Sony RX100 series. The Canon G7 X Mark III is a solid performer, too, but it is often on back order, so you may have to wait to get one. If you’re more interested in vlogging, Sony’s ZV series uses Type 1 chips and is more about video than stills.
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 their sharp lenses and enthusiast-tilted controls. It’s available in a few variations including the GR IIIx with a narrower 40mm equivalent lens, and the III HDF and IIIx HDF, both of which include soft focus effect filters in the lens.
Our top rated compact is the Fuji X100VI, the latest entry in the popular X100 line. Unfortunately for potential buyers, the X100VI is proven to be such a hit that the camera has a long waiting list, so if you want one now you’ll end up spending far more than its $1,600 retail price. If you can’t wait, check out our list of digital compacts worth buying used to find a quality alternative.
Recommended by Our Editors
Fuji X100VI (Credit: Jim Fisher)
If you’re a luxury shopper, you can go full-frame. The Leica Q3, Q3 43, Q2 Monochrom, and the 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 Pocket
If 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.
