7+ Best Compact Camera Under $ 400 | Unrivaled Guide 2024

The compact camera segment has evolved significantly in recent years. The most recent smartphones integrate photographic compartments of excellent quality and have entered into open competition with the economic compact, so much so that manufacturers, to recover market share, have had to implement new functions and increase the general quality level of their products.

Best Compact Camera Under $ 400

If compared to the models of a few years ago, the new compact cameras have much larger sensors and are capable of taking better shots than smartphones dedicated to photography, also called camera phones. Not only that, some high-end compacts produce images comparable to those of DSLRs and even the most recent mirrorless .

Best Compact Camera Under $ 400 | Comparison Table 2024

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Best Compact Camera Under $ 400 | 2024 Products Overview

1. Canon PowerShot ELPH 360

The Canon PowerShot SX540 HS is a versatile digital camera designed to capture stunning images with ease. It features a powerful 12x optical zoom with Optical Image Stabilizer, allowing for flexible and steady image capture. The built-in Wi-Fi and NFC technology facilitate easy sharing and transferring of images and videos.

Equipped with a 20.2 Megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4+ Image Processor, this camera delivers impressive image quality even in low-light conditions. It supports 1080p HD video capabilities, ensuring high-resolution video recording. The large 3.0-inch LCD screen enables easy viewing from various angles.

Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or looking for a reliable camera for everyday use, the Canon PowerShot SX540 HS provides a range of features to enhance your shooting experience.

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The Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS is a sleek and stylish digital camera that offers a range of features to help you capture stunning images and video. With a 12x Optical Zoom and Image Stabilizer, this camera is perfect for capturing every moment in detail, from a close-up of a child’s face on stage to a wide shot of the whole play and audience. The 20.2 Megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4+ Image Processor work together to deliver detailed images, even in low light settings, while the Intelligent IS and Optical Image Stabilizer help keep the images sharp and blur-free.

In addition to its impressive image capture capabilities, the PowerShot ELPH 360 HS also includes built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for easy sharing and transferring of images and videos. The large 3.0-inch LCD screen provides a clear view of your images and video, while the 1080p Full HD video resolution ensures you’ll never miss a moment. With the newly added Story Highlights mode, you can even create a short movie of your favorite moments, combining images and video and adding appropriate effects to create a memorable keepsake.

Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just looking to capture special moments in your life, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS is an excellent choice. Its slim design makes it easy to carry with you wherever you go, and its range of features and modes offer endless possibilities for capturing and sharing your memories. So why wait? Get the PowerShot ELPH 360 HS today and start capturing life’s magic moments.

2. Canon PowerShot SX720 Best Compact Camera Under $ 400

The Canon PowerShot SX720 HS is a feature-packed digital camera designed for versatile and high-quality photography. With a powerful 40x optical zoom and Intelligent IS for effective image stabilization, this camera ensures virtually shake-free images even at long zoom ranges.

Equipped with built-in WiFi and NFC, the PowerShot SX720 HS allows easy sharing and transferring of your captured images and videos. The 20.3 Megapixel CMOS sensor, coupled with the DIGIC 6 Image Processor, delivers stunning image quality, especially in low-light conditions.

Capture memorable moments in spectacular 1080p Full HD video at 60p with stereo sound. The large 3.0-inch LCD screen with approximately 922,000 dots provides easy and convenient viewing, even from wide angles. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced photographer, the Canon PowerShot SX720 HS offers advanced features for an enhanced shooting experience.

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The Canon PowerShot SX720 HS is a compact digital camera designed for travelers and families looking to capture important moments. It features a 40x Optical Zoom lens that allows you to zoom in on distant subjects or capture close-up portraits with ease. The camera also boasts a 20.3 Megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC 6 Image Processor, which help deliver stunning image quality even in low light. Additionally, the PowerShot SX720 HS has built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, making it easy to share and transfer images and videos.

The camera also has a large 3.0-inch LCD screen, making it easy to view your shots from a wide angle. With the Canon Camera Connect app, you can easily upload images to social media services, making it easier to share your memories with friends and family. The Intelligent IS system helps ensure that images and videos are captured shake-free, no matter what the shooting conditions. The camera also has different IS modes for shooting stills, video, and macro, and while using a tripod, ensuring that your images and videos are always stable and clear.

The PowerShot SX720 HS is a versatile camera that can be used for a wide range of shooting scenarios. It has 1080p Full HD video capabilities, allowing you to capture video with stunning detail and clarity. Additionally, the camera can automatically compile your images and videos into a mini highlight reel with music and effects, so you can easily relive your memories. All of these features and more are packaged in a slim and compact design, making the PowerShot SX720 HS an ideal camera for travelers, families, and anyone looking to capture important moments in life.

3. Panasonic Lumix 4K

The Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS70 is a versatile and compact digital camera designed for travel and everyday photography. Featuring a powerful 30x (24-720mm) Leica DC lens optical zoom, it provides excellent zoom performance for capturing a wide range of subjects.

With an 18-megapixel sensor, the Lumix DC-ZS70 delivers high-resolution photos with minimal image artifacts. It also offers 4K Ultra HD video recording along with exclusive Lumix 4K PHOTO and 4K post-focus photo capture features, allowing you to capture stunning moments with precision.

The camera includes an eye-level electronic viewfinder (EVF) and a touch-enabled LCD, providing a versatile and immersive viewing experience. The lens-mounted control ring brings DSLR-like exposure control to the compact point-and-shoot camera body. Additionally, built-in Wi-Fi (IEEE 802.11B/g/n) enables easy sharing and transferring of your photos and videos. The Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS70 is a feature-rich camera suitable for both photography enthusiasts and casual users.

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The Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS60 is a compact digital camera with a range of advanced features to suit both experienced and amateur photographers. This camera boasts an impressive 30x optical zoom, provided by a Leica DC lens, making it an ideal choice for travel and everyday photography. The 18-megapixel sensor delivers high-resolution images with minimal image artifacts, and 4K Ultra HD video recording with 4K photo and post-focus capabilities.

The design of the Lumix ZS60 is both stylish and practical, with a lens-mounted control ring and thumbwheel to offer a hands-on, manual feel to traditional photographers, while an eye-level electronic viewfinder and touch-enabled LCD screen offer a wide viewing experience. The camera is also equipped with Wi-Fi, allowing for wireless control from a mobile device, making it even more versatile and flexible for use in different environments.

In conclusion, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS60 is a reliable, innovative, and highly portable digital camera that provides a range of advanced features and exceptional optical performance. Whether you are a seasoned photographer or just starting out, this camera has something to offer for all, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, feature-rich point-and-shoot camera.

4. Canon PowerShot SX730 Best Compact Camera Under $ 400

The Canon PowerShot SX730 HS is a feature-packed digital camera with a compact design, making it ideal for travel and everyday photography. It boasts a powerful 40x optical zoom with zoom framing assist, allowing you to capture distant subjects with ease.

Equipped with a 20.3-megapixel CMOS sensor and the DIGIC 6 image processor, this camera delivers high-quality images with clarity and detail. The focusing range allows for versatile shooting, from macro close-ups to distant landscapes.

The camera's compact dimensions (1.6 x 4.3 x 2.5 inches or 4.1 x 10.9 x 6.4 cm) and lightweight design (1.27 pounds or 0.57 kg) make it portable and convenient for on-the-go photography. It utilizes 2 AAA batteries for power.

With wireless communication technologies such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and NFC, the Canon PowerShot SX730 HS enables easy sharing and transfer of your photos. Whether you're a photography enthusiast or a casual user, this camera offers a versatile and user-friendly experience.

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The Canon PowerShot SX730 Digital Camera is a compact and versatile point-and-shoot camera designed for everyday use. The camera boasts a 40x optical zoom lens, allowing users to capture subjects near and far with ease. The 20.3 Megapixel CMOS sensor and Digi 6 image processor ensure high-quality images and smooth video recording.

One of the standout features of the SX730 is the 180-degree tilt-type screen, which can face all the way forward to put the user in the center of the frame. The smooth skin effect can help enhance your natural features. The camera also offers a range of connectivity options, including built-in Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and NFC technology, making it easy to share photos and videos with friends and family.

In conclusion, the Canon PowerShot SX730 is a great option for those looking for a powerful and user-friendly point-and-shoot camera. With its 40x optical zoom, tilt-type screen, and connectivity options, it is perfect for capturing memories on the go. Whether you're taking photos of a scenic landscape or recording a video of a special event, the SX730 is sure to deliver high-quality results.

5. Sony DSCHX80/B High Zoom

The Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX80 is a versatile compact camera equipped with a powerful 30x optical zoom and 60x Clear Image Zoom through its ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* Lens. It features an 18.2MP Exmor R CMOS Sensor, delivering superb low-light performance for high-quality images.

With versatile video capabilities supporting high-quality formats like XAVC S, AVCHD, and MP4, this camera ensures excellent video recording. The built-in retractable OLED Tru-Finder viewfinder provides added convenience, and the 5-axis image stabilization effectively reduces camera shake and blur.

The camera is designed for convenience with a selfie-ready 3-inch Extra Fine LCD multi-angle display, customizable shooting modes (P/A/S/M), and a Memory Recall mode. It offers simple connectivity to smartphones via Wi-Fi with NFC for easy sharing and remote control.

Additionally, the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX80 allows for creative control with up to 10fps continuous shooting, Lock-on AF for keeping subjects in focus, and the ability to enhance features through downloadable camera apps. The adjustable angle LCD and compact design make it a portable and user-friendly choice.

The in-the-box accessories include a rechargeable battery pack, AC adaptor, micro USB cable, wrist strap, and an instruction manual.

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The Sony DSCHX80 is a high-zoom point-and-shoot camera that is compact in form factor. With a 30x optical zoom and 60x clear image zoom, the ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* lens allows you to capture sharp detail up close. The 18.2 megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor provides superb low-light images, while the 5-axis image stabilization greatly reduces the camera shake blur.

The camera features a retractable OLED Tru-Finder viewfinder and a 3-inch Extra Fine LCD multi-angle display, perfect for taking selfies. With customizable settings, P/A/S/M modes, and Memory Recall mode, this camera offers versatility for a range of shooting situations. Additionally, you can enhance its features with downloadable camera apps.

This camera is simple to connect to your smartphone with built-in Wi-Fi and NFC. You can also share photos instantly using these features. The camera is capable of recording in high-quality XAVC S, AVCHD, and MP4 formats. Additionally, you can capture the decisive moments with up to 10fps or keep your subject in focus with Lock-on AF. Overall, the Sony DSCHX80 is a compact, high-performing camera that offers versatility and convenience in one package.

6. Panasonic LUMIX FZ80 4K

The Panasonic LUMIX DC-FZ80 is a versatile point-and-shoot long zoom camera designed for capturing distant moments. It features an 18.1-megapixel MOS sensor and an impressive 60x zoom DC Vario lens (20-1220 millimeter) with Power O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer), ensuring clear and steady shots even at maximum zoom.

Equipped with a high-resolution 1,170K-dot viewfinder and a rear touch-enabled 3-inch LCD display (1040 dots), the camera provides clear visibility, even in bright sunlight. The lens consists of 14 elements in 12 groups for optimal image quality.

The LUMIX DC-FZ80 supports 4K video capture (3840 x 2160) with three unique 4K ultra HD video pause and save 4K photo modes, allowing you to extract individual high-resolution photos from 4K ultra HD video recordings at 30 frames per second.

With excellent low-light performance, this camera enables enjoyable photography during nighttime adventures, providing impressive results in challenging lighting conditions.

The camera also offers USB charging and Wi-Fi connectivity for on-the-go convenience. Additional connectivity options include HDMI D (Micro), Micro USB, and USB 2.0. The Panasonic LUMIX DC-FZ80 is a travel-ready camera that combines powerful features with user-friendly technologies.

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The Panasonic Lumix FZ80 is a compact point-and-shoot digital camera that is perfect for travelers. With a powerful 18.1 megapixel MOS sensor and a 60X DC Vario lens (20-1200mm) with optical image stabilizationization (O.I.S.), the camera is able to capture far-off moments with stunning clarity and detail. The lens features a bright F2.8-5.9 aperture range, which allows for striking depth of field even in low light conditions.

The camera also has advanced video capabilities, with 4K ultra HD video recording at 30 frames per second. It also features 4K photo modes that can extract individual high-resolution photos from the 4K video. The high-resolution viewfinder and rear touch-enabled 3-inch LCD display remain clear even in bright sunlight, making it easy to compose shots and review your footage. The Lumix FZ80 also has convenient travel-ready technologies such as USB charging and Wi-Fi connectivity, making it easy to transfer your photos and videos to your mobile device.

In conclusion, the Panasonic Lumix FZ80 is a versatile and compact digital camera that offers excellent image and video quality in a highly portable package. Its advanced features, such as 4K video recording, low-light performance, and convenient travel-ready technologies, make it a great choice for travelers who want to capture their adventures in stunning detail.

7. Canon EOS M200 Compact Mirrorless

The Canon EOS M200 is a compact mirrorless camera designed for vlogging and photography enthusiasts. It features fast and accurate Dual Pixel CMOS AF with eye detection AF, ensuring sharp and precise focus for both photos and videos.

With a 24.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor (APS-C), the EOS M200 delivers high-quality images with excellent detail and clarity. It supports 4K video recording and 4K time-lapse movies, allowing users to capture stunning visuals.

The camera is equipped with a 3.0-inch touch panel LCD screen that tilts up to 180°, making it ideal for capturing selfies and creative angles. The built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technology enable easy sharing of images and videos, and the auto image transfer feature adds convenience to your workflow.

The Canon EOS M200 combines advanced imaging capabilities with user-friendly features, making it a versatile choice for content creators and photography enthusiasts.

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The Canon EOS M200 is a compact mirrorless digital vlogging camera that comes equipped with an EF-M 15-45mm lens. The camera boasts a 24.1 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor, which provides high-quality images and videos. The camera is equipped with a Dual Pixel CMOS AF, which provides fast and accurate focusing with eye detection AF.

The EOS M200 has 4K video capability, including 4K time-lapse movie mode, and supports vertical video. The 3.0-Inch touch panel LCD screen is tiltable 180°, making it easy to take selfies and capture every angle. The built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technology allows for seamless image transfer and sharing. The camera also offers a variety of shooting modes and creative filters, as well as a creative assist function for adjusting brightness and color tone. The visual guide also provides helpful tips and tricks for easy navigation of the camera.

In conclusion, the Canon EOS M200 is a versatile and compact camera designed for vloggers and photographers. Its high-quality image and video capabilities, coupled with its 4K video and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technology, make it perfect for capturing and sharing memories. The camera's tiltable LCD screen, creative filters, and visual guide make it easy to use and provides endless creative possibilities.

Best Compact Camera Under $ 400 | Unrivaled Guide 2024

WHAT ARE COMPACT CAMERAS

Let's start by understanding what compact cameras are and how they differ from other camera categories.

The definition "compact" refers primarily to the size of these devices: compact cameras are the smallest on the market, they are not bulky like reflex or mirrorless cameras, they can often be carried safely in your pocket and you can always have them with you.

From a technical point of view, however, the main characteristics of the compact is that they are equipped with a single lens, with zoom or fixed focal length, and do not have the possibility of mounting interchangeable lenses

TYPES OF COMPACT CAMERAS

In this broad category we find a great variety of models, with great differences both in terms of performance and price. They range from the so-called “point and shot” cameras, with prices even below 100 dollars, to high-end compact cameras with costs exceeding 1000 dollars.

It goes without saying that the quality and performance are not the same. We have divided the guide into price ranges, so you can find your way around your budget.

Best compact camera: which one to choose and why

Compact cameras were created to meet the needs of those who did not want to spend a lot and were looking for a small camera to take on a trip or to a party with friends. Over time they have evolved, as it obviously is, reaching practically all market segments. We can say that the compact cameras are the category of cameras with the greatest coverage of price ranges . There are excellent models for those who do not have great needs and do not want to spend a lot, models suitable for those who approach photography and do not want to buy bulky cameras and models also suitable for professional use. In our guide to  compact cameras we explained how they were born, to whom they are aimed and what are the main characteristics.

In this guide on  best compact camera  Under $ 400, you won't find the absolute best compact camera, but  the best compact camera  Under $ 400 for your needs and budget. We have divided our guide into three different categories, in order to make the choice easier to use:  economic models,  mid range  models and  professional models .

Target

When you have to buy a compact camera you must first understand what will be the uses we are going to make of it. Based on the latter we will have to take into consideration the objective  of each model. We have already said that one of the peculiarities of the compact is that of not being able to change lenses, so we must first understand what focal length we need and what brightness. Most compacts have  zoom lenses , while others  have fixed lenses .

Usually we start from an equivalent focal length of 24 mm , therefore a great wide angle for many types of photography, and we arrive at focal lengths that can vary according to the models. The superzooms can reach up to 200mm , great for taking pictures of very distant subjects during a trip or a trip to nature. The higher-end models instead use lenses that usually range from 24mm up to 70mm equivalent, which is the focal range most loved by professional photographers. Fixed lenses are rarer on compact cameras, but usually have a 35mm equivalent wide-angle focal length. Cameras with fixed lenses are mostly used for genres such as street photography, as the wide-angle lens allows you to take very immersive photos and the compact body allows you to easily carry the device and go unnoticed when taking photos.

Another factor that must be taken into consideration is the brightness of the lens. Inside each lens there is a  diaphragm , or blades that open and close to let more or less light into the lens. The aperture is very important because if it is very wide it allows you to take pictures with faster shutter speeds when the light is scarce and above all it allows you to obtain a more pronounced bokeh effect . The aperture can be quantified and two ways are used to do this: the letter “f” followed by some digits, for example f / 5.6, or by the number “1” followed by some digits, for example 1: 5.6. Low digits are used to indicate a larger opening, so a lens with an aperture of f / 2.8 will be much brighter than one with an aperture of f / 5.6. Usually on compact cameras two different apertures are indicated, for example f / 2.8-5.6, as the zoom lenses have different apertures as regards the minimum focal length and the maximum focal length .

Sensor type and image quality

The second important feature regarding the compact is certainly the  image sensor . It is the heart of any camera and is most responsible for  image quality . The specification that usually everyone takes into account the sensor is  megapixels. It is often thought that having more megapixels available means more quality, but this is not exactly the case, because we must also consider the size of the sensor surface. Compact cameras can mount different types of sensors, we could say that this is the  category of cameras with the widest variety of sensors. 

The sensor surface is responsible for capturing images, so the larger it is, the more detail you can capture. Inexpensive compacts use very small sensors, usually  1 / 2.3 ″ , the smallest that can be found on a camera and that offer good performance for those who do not have many pretensions. On the other hand, most models integrate  1 ″ sensors, that is the best in terms of size / performance ratio. If well optimized, these sensors can offer top-level performance, which is why they are also used for professional models. Thanks to the great development work of the companies, it has also come to use sensors deriving from mirrorless, such as Micro 4/3 sensors and APS-C sensors. Despite having quite large dimensions, some manufacturers have managed to insert these sensors in very compact bodies, in order to have SLR or mirrorless performance in devices that can fit in a jacket pocket. Finally, although very rare, there are compacts that use  full frame sensors, i.e. sensors that are used on professional cameras and that can offer exceptional performance. Obviously in this case the weight and ergonomics suffer, but you can make a sacrifice if you need the highest quality.

If you noticed, in the paragraph about the lens, we talked about “equivalent focal length”. In fact, each sensor has a crop factor, which differs according to the size of the sensor itself. With a full frame sensor, to have a lens equivalent to 50mm, you will have to use a lens with a real focal length of 50mm. For smaller sensors, however, a formula based on the size of the sensor will have to be applied. A camera with a Micro 4/3 sensor, to have a focal distance of 50mm, will have to integrate a lens with a real focal length of 25mm, as the crop factor is 2x, therefore 25 x 2 = 50. This is the reason for which on the lens of the compact are indicated focal distances different from the equivalent ones. To learn more, we invite you to read our guide on the photographic sensor .

Connectivity

The world is now made of  connectivity , we are always connected to a worldwide network that allows you to exchange thousands of information in a very simple way. The world of photography has obviously adapted too, allowing for devices capable of connecting with products from different segments. The desire to share and control anything via your smartphone is now part of our daily life and being devices designed mainly for travel or trips, compact cameras cannot deprive themselves of these technologies.

When we talk about connectivity we refer to various technologies that allow you to exchange or collect data . Compact cameras can have  WiFi ,  Bluetooth ,  NFC and  GPS. The latter two, NFC and GPS, are the rarest to find integrated on a compact camera. The GPS allows us to collect data regarding the exact point where we took a photo, while the NFC is a small chip that has the task of making the connection with other devices (smartphones or printers) faster and safer. Basically it will be enough to touch the two devices to pair them and establish a connection between them. WiFi and Bluetooth, on the other hand, are the most commonly used technologies on the compact, as they allow you to transfer files and remotely control the camera.Bluetooth is a technology now present on many technological and non-technological devices, which allows two devices to communicate with a data transmission of various kinds. This technology has two main limitations: files that are too large cannot be transferred and the coverage range can reach ten meters .

WiFi has practically the same functions as Bluetooth, but with fewer limitations. There are two WiFi channels: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. The first can be defined as standard, as it is the most used. It has a slower transfer rate than 5 GHz, but at the same time it has a longer coverage range. The cameras can only use 2.4 GHz and are defined as  mono band,  or they can have both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz, in this case they are defined as  dual band. The mono band WiFi connection is the most used and works in itself already very well, but if you are looking for a camera that can transfer data even faster, choose the dual band models. As mentioned above, WiFi has pretty much the same functions as Bluetooth, but being more powerful and faster it can be used for more functions. First of all, via WiFi it is possible to transfer any type of file, as opposed to Bluetooth which has a maximum transfer limit. You can transfer a video recorded with the camera or even an uncompressed photo, whether it be a JPEG or a RAW , to your smartphone or tablet . In addition, WiFi often allows you to control the camera remotely, that is, you can use your smartphone to change shooting settings, check framing in real time, and take pictures without touching the camera.

Focus type

Focus may seem like a minor feature when buying the best compact camera, but it isn't. The autofocus of cameras has now reached very high performances, but not only with regard to mirrorless and reflex cameras, but also on compact cameras. Obviously, on the cheaper ones, the focus will not be good, but on some medium-high-end and professional models the performance of mirrorless and reflex cameras can be equaled . Usually the specification that is taken into consideration is the  AF points, which is the number of areas within the image that are capable of calculating focus. This specification can be very important when you need to take dynamic photos, where you need fast and precise autofocus over most of the frame. For the vast majority of situations, however, it is often enough to use only one focus point:  many professional photographers use only one focus point .

However, if it is important for you to have a powerful focus on the whole frame, in addition to taking into account the number of AF points, you must consider the presence of automatisms such as  Eye AF , Face AF and  Tracking AF . These are focusing modes that, as the name suggests, can tell if there is a face or an eye in the frame in order to focus on it. Tracking, on the other hand, allows you to focus on a subject and always keep it in focus even if it moves. These are very useful modes in dynamic situations where a single point of focus would not be enough.

Video recording

Video  recording is a fundamental feature of compact cameras, as there are many users who buy this type of product for making movies. Obviously you don't use a compact camera to record a wedding video, but when it comes to vlogs or travel videos they are perfect. They are very portable devices that can give very high quality images, so they are certainly more comfortable than mirrorless or reflex cameras.

There are two main features to consider when it comes to video recording:  video resolution and  frame rate . The resolution indicates the number of pixels that make up the video, you will surely have seen it on any device capable of recording movies such as 480p, 720p or 1080p. Each acronym indicates a resolution, which is also indicated with specific names, for example HD, Full HD or 4K. With the compact you can get to the maximum resolution  4K Ultra HD , or videos that have a resolution of  3840 x 2160 pixels . For many uses, Full HD 1080p resolution is also sufficient (1920 x 1080 pixels), as this is the most common resolution of screens used by users. So if you need the highest video quality and you have suitable screens, it is better to focus on cameras capable of recording videos in 4K (now almost all of them manage to reach this resolution even if, as we have seen above, the sensor used affects the final quality). . The frame rate, on the other hand, indicates  the number of frames printed in one second(fps). Recording videos with a high number of fps allows you to have very fluid images, we could define them "more realistic". In the cinema the number of fps that is used is 24, but for the realization of videos that are not intended for television or cinema, it is better not to go below 30fps. Indeed, in these cases, as already mentioned, the higher the number of fps, the better the final result. Recording a movie at 60fps is already very realistic, in fact in a certain sense we could define it almost standard as frame rate. When recording 4K movies, the maximum frame rate is usually 30fps, while using a Full HD resolution, in some cases, it can even reach 120fps. Such a high frame rate, in addition to giving the images an extreme fluidity

For the more demanding, however, there are two other features to consider:  image stabilization and  recording profile . The latter is present mostly on high-end models and allows you to have images with variations of shadows, lights and colors useful for post-production of videos. In some cases it is possible to record with the  FLAT profile, that is, a profile that allows you to record dull and flat images, so that you can post-produce the images of your choice by choosing the best variations. Image stabilization is more important and is also present on mid-range models. As the name suggests, stabilization allows you to stabilize images electronically or optically. Some models have a stabilizer inside the lens, which eliminates vibrations during video recording, so it is useful when recording videos hand-held, perhaps using very strong focal lengths. Obviously, stabilization is also useful for photographs.

Viewfinder

Finally, a component that may only be of interest to some users is the  viewfinder . All compact cameras obviously mount an  LCD display in the back of the body, thanks to which you can change the camera settings, you can consult the image gallery and you can check the framing in Live View. However, some photographers may feel the need to also have a viewfinder in addition to the main screen. In 90% of cases where a compact has a viewfinder, it is an  electronic viewfinder . As we have described in our guide dedicated to the electronic viewfinder , this tool is nothing more than a small display mounted inside the camera body . So what you can see in the viewfinder is exactly what you normally see on the main display. The main characteristics of an electronic viewfinder are resolution, frame rate and size. This type of viewfinder allows the photographer to have a real-time preview of the photo being taken, so it is possible to view exposure, white balance, depth of field and much more. These are the reasons why many photographers are directed to electronic viewfinders: placing your eye on the viewfinder you have no distractions, you focus exclusively on the photo you want to take and also you can view the photo even before taking it .

However, there are compact cameras that use another type of viewfinder, namely the  optical one. They are very few and are produced by Fujifilm. This manufacturer has in fact devised a particular viewfinder capable of operating both in electronic mode, with all the amenities described above, and in optical mode, as on analog rangefinder cameras. The optical viewfinder is very similar to the viewfinder of an SLR, but with the difference that in this case the image suffers from the parallax error, as the viewfinder and lens are not parallel. To overcome this problem, electronic guidelines are used inside the viewfinder. When using the optical viewfinder there is no preview, so the image is viewed normally, as if you were not using the camera. Some photographers like this particularity, because it conveys a sense of analog.

Megapixel

The total number of pixels found in a sensor is defined in Megapixels (which counts the total million pixels of the sensor). A higher value is not always synonymous with higher shooting quality, with 12 or 16 Megapixels which already represent optimal values ​​for many circumstances, even for prints in the most popular formats. The final quality depends more on the combination of sensor (technology used, amplitude) and objective (quality of the lenses).

ISO

The ISO value indicates the sensitivity level of the sensor to light. Setting a higher value on the camera results in brighter shots in low light, but with lower quality sensors you risk increasing noise (noise and artifacts in the image). Each camera behaves differently as ISO sensitivity increases, so to check the aptitude of the model of interest it is good to do an online search on specialized sites.

Lens and zoom

Almost all cameras, even compact cameras, have an optical zoom lens. Each lens supports one or more focal lengths, where focal length refers to the distance between the sensor surface and the center of the objective lens when its focus is set to infinity. 50mm lenses are defined as normal, those below normal wide-angle, those above telephoto. The zooms are lenses that have interchangeable focal lengths, either by means of a button, or by means of a ring on the same lens (especially on mirrorless). There is no need to give too much weight to digital zooms, since they do not add detail to the images but are made through software “tricks”. The optical ones, on the other hand, really offer added value.

Video recording

Most, if not all, cameras can record video . The standard for recording video is Full HD, which represents a resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 pixels, while the latest models can even go up to 4K Ultra HD. Videos can be recorded at 30fps (frames per second) or even at 50 or 60fps for smoother, smoother animations. Some models, especially action cameras, also support 120, 240 and more frames per second, useful for recording slow motion videos.

What are the biggest benefits of using a compact camera?

After having seen some of the salient features of the best compact cameras on the market, let's now briefly see what are the advantages of using a compact camera.

Value for money

Certainly one of the points in favor of a compact camera is its affordability. In fact, if you decide to opt for a compact camera with the best qualities, therefore with a much higher cost, you know that it is an amount you pay only once. In the case of reflex cameras rather than Mirroless, however, at the initial expense, sometimes perhaps not very high (if you do not opt ​​for the best), you must also add the cost of the various lenses and many other spare parts.

Here then, unless you are an enthusiast and are always looking for the best result in a shot, the purchase of a good compact is a good compromise. In our opinion, the compact camera turns out to be the choice with the best quality / price ratio.

Easy to manage

If one of the essential elements for you is handling, then surely you have to move towards cameras such as the compact or the Bridge, certainly smaller in size. This type of cameras, in addition to being more compact, often have a more manageable body.

The compact cameras are also very simple to use, intuitive and do not require special preparation, while managing to return good results, sometimes better than expected. Here then is that a compact camera turns out to be the best choice, if you are not a professional and above all if you are looking for an easy product, easy but that can be perfect for all, or almost, situations.

Compact cameras are also very simple to manage because they do not require lens changes, manual adjustments, evaluation of many elements that those who are not fond of photos do not like to do.

Dimensions

Another element that certainly works in favor of the compact camera is its size. At first glance it might be a rather trivial concept, but if you always have to carry the camera with you on the road, the weight factor is certainly essential. Furthermore, always with a view to always carrying it with you, it must be of such dimensions that it can easily fit in a pocket or in a bag or backpack, compact.

Compact cameras in general have certainly smaller dimensions than reflex cameras and therefore are the best choice for those who love to travel and always have the camera with them to capture every single moment.

Photographing events

The compact size allows you to easily carry this type of cameras even to follow events of various kinds, sports rather than musical. It is true that in some low light situations the compact cameras often suffer a little, especially if they are not the best, but they still offer more than satisfactory results.

Compact, therefore easy to take with you, even "hidden" and increasingly social, to share the shots with all your friends

Three, two, one… Cheese

After comparing the best digital compact cameras on the market in 2024, we went into some important points together. Now you will surely know more about the world of compact cameras, you will have clearer concepts and you will know what the words often used in descriptions refer to. It will be important for you to evaluate among the many compact cameras, which one to choose.

There is always a lot of news in this area but in order to choose the best camera for you, in addition to relying on the opinions of many enthusiasts, you have to ask yourself what you want from the compact camera.

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