9+ Best Compact Camera For Hiking | Unrivaled Guide 2023

Product Overview:

The Leica D-LUX 7 is a compact digital camera with a sleek black design. It features a 17 MP Four-Thirds sensor, which allows for high-quality images even in low light conditions. The camera is also equipped with a 24-75 mm f/1.7-2.8 Vario-Summilux lens with O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilization) which makes it versatile all-purpose zoom. This allows for easy use under any light conditions and the ability to capture a wide range of subjects.

The D-LUX 7 also boasts a 3-inch 1.24 million dot touchscreen LCD which enables quicker operation of settings such as autofocus. The camera also has a compact and sturdy design with a full metal housing, which makes it durable and easy to handle. Additionally, it has built-in WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity allowing for easy sharing of images and videos.

The D-LUX 7 is also capable of shooting up to 11 fps and recording Ultra HD 4K video. It also includes 4K photo capture and post focus mode, which allows for even more creative options when capturing images. The camera also has an integrated electronic viewfinder, which helps with composition and framing. With its advanced features and compact design, the Leica D-LUX 7 is a great choice for photographers looking for high quality and versatile compact camera.

How To Choose The Best Compact Camera For Hiking in 2023 | Ultimate Guide

Lens Selection

In pointing photography, pay attention to the zoom range shown. Most have a wide end of 24mm or narrower. The Olympus TG-870 is an exception at 21mm, but I prefer cameras with larger sensors for hiking. The standard 24mm is usable but not ideal for landscape photography and is a point-and-shoot compromise.

When purchasing a lens for a mirrorless SLR or DSLR camera, look for the 35mm equivalent. Most APS-C sized DSLRs and mirrorless cameras come with an 18-55mm kit lens, for example, Nikon comes with a 27-82.5mm and Canon comes with a 29-88mm. This means that to get the best hiking photos, you will almost certainly need to add a true wide-angle lens. Yes, it will increase cost and weight, but the end result should be far superior in terms of field of view and image quality. For more on this subject, including camera and lens matching, see our in-depth review of lenses.

Camera Weight

Whatever camera you choose, its small components, made of metal, plastic, and glass, will need to be carried in a bag wherever you go. That's why hikers and backpackers are always looking for ways to reduce the weight of their cameras while still getting the image quality they seek.

The Point and Shoot are the lightest of any camera, weighing in at about 8 ounces, including batteries and memory cards. It also, as mentioned, has the smallest sensor and lens, which is not the size that landscape photographers prefer. Mirrorless cameras start at about 12 ounces for the camera itself (Sony Alpha a6000) and go up to about 23 ounces for the full-frame Sony Alpha a7R III when interchangeable lenses are included. Digital SLRs are the heaviest, ranging from 14 ounces (Canon Rebel SL2) to 32 ounces (Nikon D850). It depends on the lens and the number of lenses you choose.

Water Resistance

Water resistance is one of the factors to consider when choosing a camera for hiking and backpacking. There is no universal standard, but generally, the seals and buttons on the camera body are sealed with rubber to reduce exposure to moisture and dust. Even if the camera is waterproof, water will eventually get in, and while it is not recommended for shooting in heavy rain, it can be very effective in light to moderate rain. If you are a professional photographer shooting outdoors, this camera is almost a must-have.

With the exception of "rugged" waterproof models that are fun but not optically competitive, compact cameras are not waterproof. Even high-end compacts like the Sony RX100 V don't have this feature. SLR and mirrorless cameras offer waterproofing on some mid-range models and almost all full-size models. Because of the importance of this feature, we have included water resistance in the comparison chart in this article.

The Best Focal Lengths for Hiking

For outdoor photographers, the lens is just as important as the camera itself. For example, it would be a mistake to buy a DSLR or mirrorless camera with only an 18-55mm kit lens and expect professional-quality landscape photography. In most cases, you will need a wide-angle lens, a zoom lens, or a high-quality lens that works well at the wide end (most kit lenses are quite marginal in this regard).

Since most of my hiking photos are landscapes, I find that a focal length of 16-24mm works best. Wider focal lengths require a wider spread and strategic use of the foreground (the header photo in this article was taken at 14mm, which has both of these characteristics, but is very difficult to shoot at ultra-wide angles). As you approach 24mm, you lose the dramatic aperture that makes landscape photography so appealing. I prefer the 16-24mm range for hiking, although people and animals are usually photographed at normal and telephoto focal lengths.

Zoom

This section discusses a number of technical specifications that should be considered when purchasing a camera. The first of these is the level of zoom offered by the camera.

When purchasing a compact camera, optical zoom is usually indicated by a number, such as 3x optical zoom or 40x optical zoom. The higher the number, the more you can magnify distant objects.

For greater photographic freedom, we generally recommend a camera with at least 3x optical zoom. Those who like to photograph wildlife will need a much larger zoom, from 10x to 40x.

If you are considering a camera with interchangeable lenses, such as a mirrorless or SLR camera, the zoom of the lens is indicated by a number called the focal length. The smaller the focal length of the lens, the smaller the zoom, and the larger the focal length, the larger the zoom.

For general travel use, lenses from 18mm to 200mm are recommended and can cover most situations. If you do not take many pictures of distant subjects, lenses from 18mm to 70mm are sufficient.

In general, the longer the zoom lens, the heavier the camera. In other words, zoom and weight are two factors that must be balanced against each other.

Aperture

One side of the exposure triangle in photography is the aperture. The aperture is the hole inside the camera lens through which light passes to reach the sensor; the larger the aperture, the more light can pass through.
The larger the aperture, the more light can be let in, and the better the performance will be in low-light situations. This makes the lens more useful in a variety of shooting situations, such as indoors or in dark outdoor locations.

Versatility is essential for cameras that are expected to be used in a variety of shooting situations, such as backpacking and hiking.

The disadvantage of large apertures is that they often limit the zoom of the camera. Achieving a long zoom with a large aperture lens requires a very heavy and large lens, making it unsuitable for hiking and backpacking.

For hiking and backpacking, a lens with an aperture of around f/2.8 is ideal and should be at least f/5.6.

The closer the number is to 1, the wider the aperture. However, many zoom lenses have a maximum aperture of about F5.6, which allows much less light through.

Again, it is all a compromise. If you want a long zoom lens with a large aperture, it will be expensive and heavy. If you want a lightweight lens with a large aperture, it will not zoom as well.

To learn more about aperture and how it affects your images, see our guide to the Exposure Triangle.

Sensor Size

You may be wondering why cameras come in different sizes and why larger cameras produce higher-quality images.
One of the main factors is that larger cameras can accommodate larger sensors. A sensor is a component inside the camera that is exposed to light and records that light information as a digital image.

Larger cameras can be equipped with larger sensors, and as a general rule, a larger sensor produces better images than a smaller sensor. This is because a larger sensor can capture more light, especially when shooting in dark areas.

Of course, the disadvantage is that a larger sensor is more expensive to manufacture and requires a larger body to accommodate it. It also requires a larger lens. In other words, a larger sensor is usually heavier and more expensive than a camera system with a smaller sensor.

Again, it is up to personal preference as to what is important to you, whether it is price, weight, or image quality.

Battery Life

Battery life is important to hikers and backpackers. Battery life should be a consideration, especially since you may be away from an electrical outlet for extended periods of time.

Most cameras have a nominal value indicating the number of pictures that can be taken on a full charge; a single full charge can yield about 200 pictures on the low end and about 1,300 on the high end.

In general, SLR cameras are the most battery-efficient because they can take pictures through an optical viewfinder and do not require a power supply for the monitor. Even an inexpensive DSLR camera should be able to take 600 to 1,300 pictures on a single charge.
Mirrorless SLR and compact cameras generally consume more battery power. This is because they must supply power to the screen and motorized zoom function. This consumes a lot of battery power.

Of course, you can always carry a spare battery, but it will be heavier. We suggest trying to find a backpacking and hiking camera that will take at least 400 photos on a charge, or use a very small battery to make up for it. Of course, this will depend on the number of photos you want to take, but for a week-long trip, this should be sufficient.

Manual operation

You should also consider whether the camera allows manual controls for aperture, shutter speed, ISO, etc., focus points, etc., and whether it can shoot in RAW.

If you want more creative control over your images, manual control is a must. If you want to let the camera do the work for you, then manual controls are not as important.

We prefer cameras with full manual control, but of course to each his own. It's not a major differentiator specifically for hiking and backpacking, but it's something to consider.

In general, smartphones and low-cost compact cameras do not have manual controls, while high-end compact cameras and all SLR and mirrorless cameras have manual controls.

Additional Features

Of course, there are many other features that may or may not be important in choosing a camera. For example, you may need a touch screen or a screen that rotates and tilts with respect to the camera body.

The camera should have WiFi, Bluetooth, and GPS beacon capabilities. It may be desirable to have specific dials to control different functions. You may want a camera with image stabilization or one that is optimized for video.

If video is important to you, you may want a camera that supports high-quality 4K video and an autofocus system to track your subject. Also, if you are shooting on your own, a rotating screen would be very useful for video. Other features, such as support for an external microphone, are helpful to get better sound quality to match the video.

These features are less important, especially when choosing a camera for hiking and backpacking, but of course, your needs will vary. So if you really want a camera with a particular feature, make sure to prioritize that feature in your final decision.

Best Compact Camera For Hiking | Video explanation

FAQs

What Type Of Camera Is The Best For Hiking?

When it comes to choosing a camera for hiking, there are a few factors to consider such as weight, size, durability, image quality, and battery life. Here are some types of cameras that may be suitable for hiking:

1. Mirrorless cameras: Mirrorless cameras are compact, lightweight, and offer good image quality. They are a good choice for hikers who want a high-quality camera that is easy to carry.
2. Point-and-shoot cameras: Point-and-shoot cameras are small and lightweight, making them a great choice for hikers who want to travel light. They are also easy to use, which is an advantage when you're on the move.
3. Action cameras: Action cameras are designed to be rugged and durable, making them a great choice for hikers who want to capture video footage while they hike. They are also lightweight and compact, which makes them easy to carry.
4. Compact DSLRs: Compact DSLRs are smaller and lighter than traditional DSLRs, but they offer similar image quality. They are a good choice for hikers who want a camera with interchangeable lenses and good image quality.

Ultimately, the best type of camera for hiking depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you plan to take photos of wildlife or landscapes, you may want a camera with a zoom lens or a wide-angle lens. If you plan to shoot video, an action camera may be a better choice. If you value image quality above all else, a mirrorless or DSLR camera may be the way to go.

What Is The Most Convenient Digital Camera To Take On A Backpacking Trip?

When it comes to choosing a digital camera for backpacking trips, convenience is key. Here are some factors to consider when choosing the most convenient camera:

1. Size and weight: Look for a camera that is compact and lightweight, so it won't take up too much space in your backpack.
2. Battery life: Choose a camera with a long battery life or one that allows you to swap out batteries easily. This will ensure that you can take plenty of photos without having to worry about recharging.
3. Durability: A durable camera is essential for backpacking trips, as it will be exposed to the elements and potential rough handling. Look for a camera that is weather-sealed and built to withstand some wear and tear.
4. Ease of use: You want a camera that is easy to use and doesn't require too much time or effort to set up and take photos.

Based on these factors, some of the most convenient digital cameras to take on a backpacking trip are:

1. GoPro HERO9 Black: This action camera is lightweight, weather-sealed, and can shoot high-quality photos and videos. It also has a long battery life and a variety of mounting options.
2. Sony RX100 VII: This compact camera is small enough to fit in your pocket, yet packs a punch with a 24-200mm zoom lens and excellent image quality. It also has a long battery life and can shoot 4K video.
3. Fujifilm X-T30: This mirrorless camera is lightweight, weather-sealed, and has excellent image quality. It also has a long battery life and a compact design, making it easy to carry on a backpacking trip.
4. Olympus Tough TG-6: This rugged point-and-shoot camera is waterproof, dustproof, and shockproof, making it perfect for outdoor adventures. It also has a long battery life and can shoot high-quality photos and videos.

Is A Gopro Good For Hiking?

Which Camera Is Best For Adventure?

The best camera for adventure depends on the type of adventure you're going on and your personal preferences. Here are a few options to consider:

1. GoPro: If you're looking for a camera that's small, lightweight, and durable, the GoPro is an excellent choice. It's waterproof, shockproof, and can capture high-quality photos and videos in a variety of lighting conditions. Plus, its wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing expansive landscapes and action shots.
2. Sony RX100 VII: The Sony RX100 VII is a compact camera that packs a punch. It features a fast lens, and quick autofocus, and can shoot up to 20 frames per second. Plus, it has a built-in electronic viewfinder, making it easier to compose shots in bright sunlight.
3. Canon EOS R5: If you're looking for a full-frame camera with top-of-the-line features, the Canon EOS R5 is a great option. It's weather-sealed, has excellent autofocus, and can shoot 8K video. Plus, its mirrorless design makes it lighter and more compact than traditional DSLR cameras.
4. Fujifilm X-T4: The Fujifilm X-T4 is a versatile camera that's great for both photos and videos. It has a weather-sealed body, excellent image quality, and can shoot at up to 15 frames per second. Plus, its retro design is both stylish and functional, with physical dials and buttons for easy access to settings.

Ultimately, the best camera for adventure is one that you feel comfortable using and can rely on to capture the moments you want to remember.

What Cameras Do Mountaineers Use?

Mountaineers often require a camera that is lightweight, durable, and can handle extreme weather conditions. Here are some camera options that are commonly used by mountaineers:

1. GoPro: GoPro is a popular choice for mountaineers due to its small size and durability. It's waterproof, shockproof, and can capture high-quality photos and videos in a variety of lighting conditions. Plus, its wide-angle lens is perfect for capturing expansive landscapes and action shots.
2. Sony RX100 VII: The Sony RX100 VII is a compact camera that packs a punch. It features a fast lens, and quick autofocus, and can shoot at up to 20 frames per second. Plus, it has a built-in electronic viewfinder, making it easier to compose shots in bright sunlight.
3. Olympus Tough TG-6: The Olympus Tough TG-6 is a rugged camera that is waterproof, shockproof, and freeze-proof, making it an excellent choice for mountaineering. It also has a built-in GPS and can shoot in RAW format for better post-processing.
4. Canon EOS R5: The Canon EOS R5 is a full-frame camera that is weather-sealed and has excellent autofocus. It can shoot 8K video and has a mirrorless design that makes it lighter and more compact than traditional DSLR cameras.
5. Fujifilm X-T4: The Fujifilm X-T4 is a versatile camera that is weather-sealed and has excellent image quality. It can shoot at up to 15 frames per second and has a retro design with physical dials and buttons for easy access to settings.

Ultimately, the best camera for mountaineering depends on personal preference and the specific needs of the individual.

What Color Lens Is Best For Hiking?

The color of the lens that is best for hiking depends on the lighting conditions and the specific needs of the hiker. Here are some general guidelines for selecting lens colors for hiking:

1. Gray lenses: Gray lenses are a good all-around choice for hiking in bright sunlight. They reduce glare and provide true color representation.
2. Brown lenses: Brown lenses are a good choice for hiking in variable light conditions. They enhance contrast and depth perception and are ideal for hiking on trails with uneven terrain.
3. Yellow lenses: Yellow lenses are a good choice for hiking in low-light conditions or for dawn or dusk hikes. They enhance contrast and provide better visibility in dim lighting.
4. Rose lenses: Rose lenses are a good choice for hiking in cloudy or overcast conditions. They enhance contrast and provide better visibility in low-light situations.
5. Green lenses: Green lenses are a good choice for hiking in bright sunlight and in areas with a lot of foliage. They enhance contrast and provide good color balance.

Ultimately, the best color lens for hiking depends on the individual's preferences and the specific conditions they will be hiking in. It's important to try on different lens colors and consider the lighting conditions of the hike before making a final decision.

Is A Compact Digital Camera Better Than A Phone?

It depends on the specific features and capabilities of the compact digital camera and the phone being compared. Generally speaking, compact digital cameras often have better image quality and more advanced features than smartphones, such as optical zoom, manual controls, and larger image sensors. They may also have the more durable build quality, better battery life, and faster performance for taking photos.

However, smartphones have advanced significantly in recent years and can often produce high-quality images with features like multiple lenses, image stabilization, and advanced camera software. Smartphones are also more portable and convenient to carry than a separate camera and can perform many other functions besides taking photos.

Ultimately, the choice between a compact digital camera and a phone for photography depends on the individual's specific needs and preferences. For those who prioritize image quality and advanced features, a compact digital camera may be the better choice. For those who prioritize convenience and portability, a phone may be sufficient.

Are Smartphone Cameras Better Than Compact Cameras?

Smartphone cameras have made significant advancements in recent years and can now produce high-quality images that rival those taken with compact cameras. Many smartphones now have multiple lenses, optical image stabilization, and advanced camera software that allows for features such as portrait mode, low-light photography, and even RAW capture. Additionally, smartphones offer the convenience of being an all-in-one device that can make calls, browse the internet, and access social media, making them a popular choice for everyday photography.

However, compact cameras still have some advantages over smartphone cameras. They often have larger image sensors, which allow for better image quality and low-light performance. Compact cameras also typically have a wider range of manual controls and settings that allow for greater creative control over the image. In addition, compact cameras are often more durable and have better battery life than smartphones.

Overall, whether a smartphone camera or a compact camera is better depends on the individual's specific needs and preferences. For everyday photography, a smartphone may be sufficient, while for more advanced photography, a compact camera may be the better choice.

Is Phone Camera Good Enough For Travel?

Yes, phone cameras are typically good enough for travel photography, especially if you're not a professional photographer and just want to capture memories of your trip. Most modern smartphones have high-quality cameras that can produce sharp, vibrant images with good color accuracy and detail.

Many phone cameras now also have features such as wide-angle lenses, night mode, and portrait mode, which can help you capture a variety of shots and make your photos look more professional.

Of course, there are some limitations to using a phone camera, such as limited zoom range and poorer performance in low-light situations compared to more advanced cameras. However, with some basic photography techniques and post-processing, you can still achieve great results with your phone camera while traveling. And the added convenience of having your camera and smartphone in one device can make it a popular choice for many travelers.

What Are The Disadvantages Of Gopro?

While GoPro cameras are a popular choice for action and adventure photography, they do have some disadvantages compared to other types of cameras. Here are a few:

1. Battery life: GoPro cameras have a relatively short battery life, especially when recording in high-quality modes. This means you may need to carry extra batteries or be strategic about when you use the camera.
2. Limited zoom: GoPro cameras have a fixed wide-angle lens, which means they don't offer much zoom capability. This can make it challenging to get close-up shots of distant subjects.
3. No viewfinder: GoPro cameras don't have a built-in viewfinder, which can make it difficult to compose your shots, especially in bright sunlight.
4. No image stabilization: While some newer GoPro models do offer image stabilization, earlier models don't have this feature, which can result in shaky footage, especially during high-speed activities.
5. No external microphone: GoPro cameras don't have a built-in jack for an external microphone, which can limit your ability to capture high-quality audio.
6. Cost: GoPro cameras can be expensive, especially when you factor in the cost of accessories such as mounts, batteries, and memory cards.

Overall, while GoPro cameras are a great choice for certain types of photography, they may not be the best option for everyone, depending on your specific needs and preferences.

Which GoPro Is Best For Trekking?

The best GoPro for trekking will depend on your specific needs and preferences, as well as your budget. Here are a few options to consider:

1. GoPro HERO10 Black: The HERO10 Black is GoPro's latest and most advanced camera, offering 5.3K video recording, improved image stabilization, and a faster processor than previous models. It also has a front-facing screen for easy framing of shots.
2. GoPro HERO9 Black: The HERO9 Black is a slightly older model, but still offers 5K video recording, excellent image stabilization, and a front-facing screen. It's also slightly cheaper than the HERO10 Black.
3. GoPro HERO8 Black: The HERO8 Black is a great option if you're looking for a slightly more affordable camera. It offers 4K video recording, good image stabilization, and a compact design that's easy to carry while trekking.
4. GoPro MAX: If you're interested in 360-degree video and photos, the GoPro MAX is a great option. It can shoot 360-degree footage in 6K resolution, and also has a front-facing screen for easy framing.

Ultimately, the best GoPro for trekking will depend on your specific needs and budget, so it's important to consider your options carefully before making a purchase.

Can Gopro Withstand Rain?

Yes, GoPro cameras are designed to be weather-resistant and can withstand rain to some extent. However, it's important to note that they are not completely waterproof and can only withstand rain, splashes, and light water exposure. If you plan to use your GoPro in heavy rain or underwater, it's recommended to use additional protective housing or a waterproof case. Additionally, after using your GoPro in the rain or water, it's important to dry it off thoroughly and remove any moisture to avoid damage to the camera.

How Do You Carry A Camera While Trekking?

What Is an Adventure Camera?

An adventure camera is a rugged and durable camera designed for outdoor and adventure activities. These cameras are built to withstand harsh weather conditions, extreme temperatures, and rough handling. They are also compact and lightweight, making them easy to carry on outdoor adventures such as hiking, camping, and trekking. Adventure cameras often come with features such as waterproofing, shock resistance, dust resistance, and image stabilization to ensure high-quality photos and videos in challenging environments. Many adventure cameras also offer a wide range of mounting options, allowing users to attach them to helmets, bikes, and other gear to capture action footage. Some popular adventure camera brands include GoPro, Sony Action Cam, and Olympus Tough.

How Do I Choose An Outdoor Camera?

Conclusion:

The best camera is the one you always have in your hand! These fancy features and comparisons mean nothing if your camera is designed to be stored in a backpack.

These cameras are useless if you don't have them hanging around your neck all the time while hiking.

I also don't think much of special bags (that you can attach to your shoulder strap). By the time you turn on your camera, you've already lost precious seconds. Those few seconds and the extra obstacle are more daunting than you think.

Those few seconds and the extra obstacle are more of a deterrent than you think. In nature photography, of course, appreciating the moment is often an obstacle! In such a situation, is it really worth spending hundreds or thousands of dollars on a camera that is only used occasionally?

Again, the "best camera" is probably the one on your smartphone that you probably already own and will have on hand when the perfect scene comes along.

What kind of camera do you use for hiking?