DSLRs and mirrorless cameras offer standout image quality but they’re simply not pocketable. Even compact system cameras with their reduced size can’t compete with some of the compact cameras we’re about to list below.
While cameras with interchangeable lenses have a lot going for them, many photographers consider the simplicity and slim body of a point-and-shoot camera well worth it.
Compact cameras are often the best option for travel and usually fit into the budgets of most enthusiast photographers.
And today, compact cameras have come far, with many pro-grade options now available to compete with entry-level DSLRs and mirrorless cameras. From impressive zoom specs to high-quality sensors, compact cameras can pack a powerful punch.
Here are six of the best compact cameras (in our opinion!) for every occasion.
Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III
To have a compact camera, you normally need to compromise on your sensor size. But with this Canon PowerShot, you can get a pocketable camera with a whopping APS-C 24.2MP sensor - the same one you’d find in many of Canon’s DSLR and mirrorless models.
Other nifty features include an electronic viewfinder and a great touchscreen display, as well as a 24-72mm equivalent f/2.8-5.6 lens which retracts neatly into the camera body when idle.
Autofocus is speedy while Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and Dynamic NFC capabilities make it easier than ever to upload and share your photos.
Learn more about the Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark II.
Fujifilm X100F
The Fujifilm X100F bundles a 24.2MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS sensor and a fixed 23mm f/2.0 lens into a nicely compact, retro body.
Arguably the best compact camera for travel, the X100F delivers incredible image quality with results rich in contrast and with superior skin tones.
Shoot with a wide aperture and you’ll get rich bokeh and subject separation you’d typically expect of a full frame camera. The X100F is also noted for being particularly enjoyable to use.
Worth mentioning is Fujifilm’s hybrid optical/electronic viewfinder, which not only lets you choose between electronic and optical views but also lets you see beyond the frame’s edge so you can compose the shot better.
At this price point and with the sophisticated controls in this camera, this is a compact camera best left to the professionals but will deliver endless delights to any keen photographer.
Check out the Fujifilm X100F today.
Sony RX100 VI
20MP one-inch sensor. A 24-200mm zoom lens. An incredibly slim body. Ridiculously fast autofocus with 24fps. This compact camera is hard to beat.
The Sony RX100 VI is a great camera to use with low ISOs and has an impressive dynamic range which helps you pull out unclear details in post processing.
It also has a pop-up OLED viewfinder great for shooting in sunlight, as well as a tilting screen.
At a higher price range, this is a camera for those who don’t want to compromise on a slim design but truly want the best compact camera there is.
Check out the Sony RX100 VI now.
Olympus Tough TG-6
Adventurous photographers looking for something lightweight, sturdy, and able to deliver high quality images will love the Olympus Tough TG-6.
Where do we start? It’s waterproof to a depth of 15 metres, dustproof, drop-proof to 2.1 metres, crushproof to 100kg, and freezeproof to -10°C.
The body may be rugged, but the camera comes with some impressive specs, most notably the ability to shoot in RAW so you have more flexibility editing your photos later. It’s a lot to pack into a budget compact camera under $800.
Check out the Olympus Tough TG-6.
Panasonic Lumix LX100 Mark II
Most compact cameras with big sensors have lenses with fixed focal lengths. Not so the LX100 II. This camera sports a 17MP Micro Four Thirds sensor and a 24-75mm f/1.7-2.8 equivalent lens. Yet it’s still easily pocketable.
Combine this with a speedy autofocus system, sharp 4K videos, excellent controls and impressive image quality, and you’re onto a winner.
You’ll also love the multi-aspect sensor, which means you can switch between the native 4:3 aspect ratio, the 3:2 ratio, and the 16:9 wide format without cropping the image.
Check out the Panasonic Lumix LX100 Mark II.
Fujifilm XF10
The Fujifilm XF10 uses an impressive 24.2MP APS-C sensor with a fixed lens focal length equivalent to 28mm (f/2.8). All in a camera so slim, it’ll easily slide into a pocket.
Though it doesn’t have a viewfinder, it still produces great image quality, free of distortion. It also has high ISO performance, making it a wonder for shooting in low light.
It’s a perfect budget point and shoot camera under $800. You can also get it in a cool champagne gold body.
Check out the Fujifilm XF10 here.
Find your perfect compact travel camera today
Keep your luggage lightweight. Find an ideal compact camera for your needs, whether that’s a camera with a big zoom for wildlife photography or a compact camera with a rugged body for action-packed adventures.
At Camera House, we have an extensive range of compact cameras. Our staff are ready to give you their advice on their favourite point-and-shoot systems, so visit us in-store today or shop our compact camera selection online now.
