best travel compact camera uk

The best travel camera in 2024: compact and portable cameras to take anywhere

The best travel cameras are small, lightweight, easy to use and offer a range of features – here are the ones to look at

• The Quick List ↩
• Best compact
• Best full frame
• Best hybrid
• Best for size
• Best budget
• Best waterproof
• Best action cam
• Best for 360º
• Best for vloggers
• How to choose
• How we test

The Quick List ↩ 1. Best compact 2. Best full frame 3. Best hybrid 4. Best for size 5. Best budget 6. Best waterproof 7. Best action cam 8. Best for 360º 9. Best for vloggers How to choose How we test

The best travel cameras have to do one crucial thing: be better than your phone. That means the best travel cameras need to combine compactness with image quality, advanced features with simple operation, and ideally the ability to share your holiday photos and vacation videos fast. 

Even though the best camera phones can produce great images, you just don't get the same quality as you would if shooting with one of the best point-and-shoots or best mirrorless cameras . Smartphones are restricted by smaller sensors offering lower still and video quality, reduced low light performance, and minimal control over depth of field (for those blurry backgrounds). 

We'll look at mirrorless cameras that offer better image quality and more versatility than compact systems but at the cost of increased size and weight. Compact cameras, perfect for keeping on you at all times, won't weigh you down, and are really simple to use – although they have smaller sensors and fixed lenses. And finally, action cameras that are robust cameras made for wild adventuring!

Gareth is the Reviews Editor at Digital Camera World, and the person in charge of approving all the latest camera-related tech. He never misses an opportunity to travel, or an excuse to take photos while traveling, so is best placed to judge what are the best travel cameras for all sorts of different vacations and adventures.

The Quick List

Travel cameras should be small and light, but not lacking in features for amazing photos and video. The Fujifilm X100VI ticks all of those boxes, with a diminutive size, but 40MP images and 6.2K video. And does all this while looking great, with some stunning retro charm.

Read more below ↓

Despite aging a little, the Sony A7 III still offers some features that are competitive with new models like IBIS, auto-tracking, and 4K video. Best of all, the camera is incredibly well-priced, making it the best option for traveling without worrying too much about damaging expensive kit.

The Fujifilm X-S20 is a camera for everyone, with great quality stills, but is set apart by its deceptively powerful video skills. This makes the X-S20 the perfect travel camera for any hybrid creator who is a versatile and lightweight camera, all at a price tag that won't break the bank. 

When picking the best travel camera, we're focusing on portability. If you want to fit a whole photographic kit – that's a camera and several lenses into a bag, then the dinky but mighty Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is one of the best portable cameras around.

If you want a small camera that shoots great stills and video, and cost costs the earth the Panasonic Lumix G100 is the best budget option out there for travel. There is also the slightly newer G100D, which is much the same, but with a USB-C port and upgraded EVF.

If you're planning on a coastal adventure then you need a camera that is fully waterproof and rugged enough to take on the most challenging adventures. This camera offers better stills than your average action cam, so if photos are your main priority  – the Tough TG-7 is for you.

View the full list ⇩

This is a camera that can withstand some serious adventuring, action cameras are made for extreme conditions, and the best of the bunch is the Osmo Action 4. The Osmo 4 offers an incredibly wide field of view, image stabilization, and waterproofing for action-packed vacations.

If you want to remember every little bit of your vacation, then you can't go wrong with a 360º camera to capture not what only is going on in front of you, but all around you. The Insta360 X3 is the best all-encompassing camera you can buy, best of all it is easy to slip into a pocket or bag for travel.

If you are looking for a small yet mighty all-in-one camera with quality video and audio made to go straight on social media or YouTube then the Sony ZV-E10 is the best choice. It does take decent pictures, but if you are looking for something more hybrid, check out the X-S20 above.

The best travel camera in 2024

Why you can trust Digital Camera World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.

Best compact travel camera

1. Fujifilm X100VI

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

✅ You want a pocketable camera:  the Fujifilm X100VI is a very compact camera, the whole package of camera and lens are so small that you can easily slip this into a jacket or rucksack pocket. ✅ You want a camera that looks good:  The X100VI is easily one of the best-looking cameras you can buy. The stunning retro looks of old-school film cameras are matched with superb build quality.

❌ You want a range of lenses:  the lens is fixed on the X100VI, so you are stuck with the 23mm focal length, although its digital cropping modes give the illusion (but not performance) of more focal lengths ❌ You want a cheap travel camera:  the X100VI has a premium price tag, and there are options that produce a similar image quality, if you don't mind a different style of camera that is.

If you are looking for a camera for traveling, then one of the major things to look out for is something small and lightweight that can easily slip into a bag or a jacket pocket and won't be a drag to carry around for long periods – enter the Fujifilm X100VI .

The X100VI is a fixed-lens camera, which means that it has a single lens that can't be changed. The lens is 23mm, or equivalent to a 35mm length lens on on a full-frame camera, a perfect length for travel photography as it is wide enough to get in landscapes and street scenes, but narrow enough for portraits and family shots. While there are converters available for the X100V to change the length of the lens, I find these have an adverse effect on image quality. The X100VI does have a trick to crop images when taking them to give the illusion of additional focal lengths, although at a reduced size. 

The X100V packs in some lovely 40MP photos, and while not the most ideal camera for video, you can get 6.2K (cropped), 4K, or HD video with slow motion reaching 240 frames per second. There is also human, animal, bird, and vehicle autofocus tracking, so you can snap away with confidence that your shots will be in focus. Finally, image stabilization helps cut out hand jitters in low light or shooting video, for more stable footage.

And for those who want to share travel snaps as you go, you get access to Fujifilm 's awesome film simulations and custom recipes, which takes the work out of editing, and with WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity and the Fujifilm X App, you can quickly share ready to post photos and video to social from your phone.

The X100VI's design will catch a few eyes while traveling. The camera is lovely to hold, made with premium materials, and with a wonderful hybrid optical viewfinder that shows either the real picture or how it looks through the sensor with a flick of a button. However, as a major downside for travel, the X100VI lens is not weather-sealed without an adapter – at an additional cost.

Speaking of cost, this premium camera comes at a premium price, with some similar tech available for less in other models. But for the build quality and features, I think it does a lot to justify its higher price, but if you want the best compact camera, there is nothing better than this.

Read our full Fujifilm X100VI review for more

• Back to the top ⇪

Best full frame on a budget

2. Sony A7 III

✅ You want full frame quality:  full frame cameras can produce more focus separation and are better in low light, the A7 III is the most affordable step into full frame. ✅ You want a camera to use outside of traveling:  the A7 III is a pro-level camera that is not just for travel, you can shoot brilliant photos all year round with a multitude of lenses available for different subjects.

❌ You don't want the expense of lenses:  the cost of lenses can add up, especially ones for full-frame cameras, if you want to keep costs low, choose a fixed lens camera or an option with smaller cheaper lenses. ❌ You want a small camera:  the A7 III isn't huge, but it also isn't small. With a lens attached, it is going to take up quite a bit of room in a bag, and won't be sliding in any pocket.

While the Sony A7 III might be the oldest Sony Alpha camera still being sold as new, even being replaced by a newer Sony A7 VI, it more than holds its own today. Any photographer looking for an excellent full-frame hybrid camera for traveling should seriously consider this camera as an option.

Why? Well, I don't think there is a better value full-frame camera out there, which when traveling can take some of the jeopardy out of damaging or losing your incredibly expensive kit.

It might be getting on a little, but the camera still has a very competitive 24.2MP back-illuminated image sensor, which delivers great tonal range and makes high ISO settings possible, which anyone who is shooting a lot in low light on their travels will really appreciate. A 5-axis image stabilization system also delivers less shake when shooting at night, or capturing video. 

And if you are also looking to get some video footage on your travels then the A7III has very capable 4K video, although has been surpassed by a few other models on this list which would be more suitable if video is a priority.

The A7III has a speedy and accurate 696-point AF system, and while not the latest algorithms, the A7 III also has some solid human face and eye tracking, so you can take reliably focused photos of your friends, family, or any interesting denizens you meet out on your travels. 

Whilst the A7III can be thrown a little off-balance with big pro lenses, Sony's lens range is extensive and there are many smaller primes to suit this camera perfectly for those who don't want to carry a lot while traveling. Or superzoom lenses like the Sony FE 24-240mm will empower you to capture everything from near to far.

Read our full Sony A7 III review

Best hybrid travel camera

3. Fujifilm X-S20

✅ You shoot video and photos:  the Fujifilm X-S20 is the best of both worlds, with great-looking photos and awesome video skills too! ✅ You want to balance price and features:  the X-S20 offers a lot for its price, and it is one of the best-value cameras around, you will struggle to find matching video specs at this price point.

❌ You don't really care about video:  there are other options that might suit photographers more than the X-S20 with higher megapixel counts. ❌ You might need weather resistance:  the X-S20 is not weather-sealed, so if you plan to get adventurous, a camera that can handle dust and water might be a better choice.

When I tested the Fujifilm X-S20 I was just so impressed at the amount of features that Fujifilm had managed to squeeze into its petite body – it's not just a great stills camera, it is also one of the best video cameras available, and the cherry on top, it is really well priced! For anyone looking for a hybrid camera to shoot a mix of photos and video, I think this is the best camera for any traveler right now.

Fujifilm chose not to update the X-Trans IV sensor from the X-S10, but this sensor despite its age still holds up very well today when it comes to stills. The X-S20 is also able to use Fujifilm's excellent film simulations and programmable film recipes to create ready-to-use images straight from the camera, which makes any regular social media posting that much easier.  The new X-Processor 5 also brings brand new subject recognition and tracking autofocus, making taking photos on the fly quicker and more reliable.

Despite its compact size, the X-S20 is a deceptively powerful video camera. The new processor combined with the modest resolution sensor means the X-S20 is capable of 6K video using the entire sensor (open-gate). The camera is also capable of numerous codecs and F-Log for getting in-depth with color grading. The subject recognition and tracking also carry through into videos and there are dedicated vlogging video features too.

Some might prefer the classic retro style like the X-T5 or X-T30 II, but with fewer manual dials, the X-S20 is a more user-friendly camera, with a more useful fully articulating screen than any of the X-T range. The camera is small, but handling is great with enough of a comfortable grip for long days, and the camera pairs really well with Fujifilm's small zoom and prime lenses, making traveling light with a kitted-out X-S20 a little easier. While the price is a little higher than the X-S10 that preceded it, I think the price bump is justified as this is one capable camera for traveling.

Read more: Fujifilm X-S20 review

Best travel camera for size

4. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

✅ You want a small system:  the whole OM Micro Four Thirds system is tiny, with small cameras and lenses, so you can take a lot more gear to cover more subjects. ✅ You want a good-looking camera:  with a cool vintage style based on Olympus's OM film cameras, the E-M10 IV looks as good as the footage it shoots.

❌ You shoot a lot in low light:  the Micro Four Thirds sensor in the E-M10 IV doesn't handle low light as well as larger sensors, not good for frequent nighttime shooters. ❌ You won't use the retro dials:  if you are looking for just fast auto controls then the dials on the top of the E-M10 IV will be largely redundant for your needs.

When picking the best travel camera, we're focusing on portability, and the dinky but mighty Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is one of the best portable cameras around if you are looking for a whole system including lenses that can easily slip into a bag. The best Olympus lenses include positively tiny optics that can go a long way for travel photography, helping you keep your kit and weight size down. So if you are the type of carry-on-only travel photographer but with big photography ambitions then this is for you.

Not only does it have an incredibly lightweight body, but the camera will look great on your travels too, with a cool retro design that harks back to Olympus's long pedigree in film cameras. The camera has tactile dial-led controls for anyone who wants to get creative with manual photography, although don't let that fool you into thinking the camera is complicated, as there are lots of automatic modes and helpful features built into the camera.

The OM-D E-M10 Mark IV uses the smaller but still powerful Micro Four Thirds sensor. This has some slight disadvantages in terms of low-light capabilities, so if you like to go out a lot at night when you travel, then a larger sensor might be better for you. 

But Micro Four Thirds does have one big advantage, it effectively doubles the focal length of any lens mounted to the camera; so a 50mm will behave like a 100mm, so if you are about to head off on safari, then this could make all the difference to getting up close to wildlife. Its snappy burst shooting, its accurate autofocus, and its impressive 4K video will also all assist you with creating amazing content. It's a terrific all-around camera. 

Read our full Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV review for more

Best travel camera on a budget

5. Panasonic Lumix G100

✅ You want an affordable camera:  the Lumix G100 is a great deal for the features it offers, and an affordable way to get great travel snaps. ✅ You want a range of small lenses:  there are a lot of Micro Four Thirds lenses, so there is something for every occasion, and best of all, they tend to be on the smaller side for easy travel.

❌ You want the very latest tech:  the G100 is a little on the older side and doesn't have Panasonic's latest autofocus, which puts it a little behind the competition. ❌ You want more serious creative video:  intended as a hybrid camera, there are lots of video-focused features, but the camera lacks IBIS and a headphone jack/USB-C found in rivals.

Sometimes, you just want to create quality images and video while you are traveling, but you don't want to pay a small fortune for a camera to do so, or risk carrying around an expensive camera. The Panasonic Lumix G100 is the best camera you can get for traveling that offers all the quality features you will need but at an affordable price.

The G100 is a super-small, super-cute camera with a Micro Four Thirds sensor. It is still easy to capture high-quality video and stills with simple controls, menus, and its approachable button layout. The camera can be paired with numerous dinky Micro Four Thirds lenses too, especially small pancake lenses to keep the overall size down. Micro Four Thirds also has the benefit of doubling the focal length, so 100mm becomes 200mm, so you can pair the G100 camera with telephoto lenses for capturing far away subjects like wildlife without having to carry huge lenses.

A downside though is there is some compromise for the low price, and the G100 is not the most technically advanced camera on this list, and its autofocus uses Panasonic's cruder contrast-detect technology, which is a little slower than other cameras and is notorious for "pulsing" and "hunting" during video. 

Despite this, the G100 is also a perfect camera for vloggers, with an articulating screen and ready to share footage. But while there’s an inherent risk of dumbing things down too much when creating a camera for social media creatives, Panasonic has avoided that pitfall with the Lumix G100, and this is a great camera if you're just as interested in vlogging as you are in travel photography. 

Read our full Panasonic Lumix G100 review

Best waterproof compact travel camera

6. OM System Tough TG-7

✅ You want a rugged adventure camera:  the TG-7 can certainly withstand some serious adventuring with a rugged water/dust/freeze/drop-proof build. ✅ You want a photography-first adventure camera:  the TG-7 puts photography first and foremost, offering a better experience than smaller fiddly action cameras.

❌ You want to strap the camera to things:  while action cameras have numerous accessories to strap to your sports equipment, there is far less for the bigger TG-7. ❌ You only care about video:  if you are just looking for the best rugged video camera for travel, then action cameras have you covered (see below).

Following the acquisition of Olympus's camera division, the OM System TG-7 is essentially an update to the much-loved Olympus Tough TG-6 under a new brand name. Although that camera has long been the top-regarded travel compact for adventurers who are as invested in photos as video. Action cameras might be smaller and just as hardy, but can't compete with the TG-7 for photography experience.

The TG-7 is ready for any travel adventure and is water-proof, dust-proof, crush-proof, drop-proof, and freeze-proof, so whether your hiking, climbing, swimming, or otherwise take you to the hottest deserts to the coldest tundras, the camera should come out the other side unscathed.

The TG-7 might have a relatively conservative 12MP resolution, although this helps dramatically when it comes to low-light images, as each pixel is larger allowing it to capture more light. Why is this important? Well if you are shooting in darker underwater environments, in gloomy forests, or at night, then you will get higher-quality images. 

The Touch also has RAW images, so you can get even more creative control over the final edit of your images. The camera also has a pretty incredible macro mode as well if you find some small details on your travels that you have to capture.

While it might not be up to the same standard as the best action cameras for video (see below for that), the Tough can capture decent 4K video, and will get some perfectly serviceable footage for social and YouTube of your wild adventures!

Read our full OM System Tough TG-7 review

Best action camera for travel

7. DJI Osmo Action 4

✅ You want a camera that can keep up with your travel adventures:  the Osmo 4 is hardy enough for whatever conditions you throw at it, weather-sealed and fantastic stabilized footage. ✅ You want a tiny camera:  action cameras like the Osmo 4 are great as they are so small they are effortless to travel with.

❌ You want to shoot high quality photos:  the 12MP photos from the Osmo 4 can't compete with more dedicated cameras, and the wide angle lens needs lots of corrections. ❌ You need accessories:  the market for DJI accessories isn't as big as the more famous GoPro, so if you need niche or cheaper accessories, that might be the brand to choose.

For most adventurer-creators, the Osmo Action 4 is the perfect balance of quality and price. Stabilized 4K video looks great and the camera can take a lot – not just rough and tumble but temperature extremes and it's waterproof to 16m without a case. Best of all, it has a larger image sensor than any other camera on the list, so it is better in lower light, making it more flexible.

DJI did have an interesting experiment with modular design, now seemingly abandoned, with the Action 2, but they do retain powerful magnetic mounts which can even partially survive the heat of an oven (we tried accidentally – see our full review). 

Like the more famous competition, DJI has high-quality horizon balancing and image stabilization, which has improved on the Action 3. The resolution limit is 4K, but in practice, this is the ideal resolution for action (and the limit of almost all TVs). More useful is the 120fps capability (or 240fps at 1080P).

The fact that Action 4’s isn’t interwoven with subscription software is one we wholeheartedly appreciate, too, but GoPro seem to finally growing out of this.

Read our full DJI Osmo Action 4 review

Best 360º camera for travel

8. Insta360 X3

✅ You want to capture everything:  the Insta360 X3 can capture all that goes on around you, perfect for capturing immersive travel content. ✅ You want to travel light:  the Insta360 X3 is very small and lightweight, and won't trouble your carry-on bag limits.

❌ You want a versatile camera:  the Insta360 X3 is made for one thing, and that is great 360º footage, if you want to capture more, you might need to bring a second camera. ❌ You want artistic images:  the Insta360 X3 has big 72MP images but the small sensor means they aren't as creative as a bigger camera.

The new Insta360 X4 has just launched offering 8K video and an updated design, but I still think the X3 offers great features for a much better value, so it remains in this guide for now!

There are times when handling even an action camera's wide-angle lens becomes a problem, and that's where a 360-degree action camera can step in. With two back-to-back lenses and enough smarts to eliminate a selfie stick from the footage, this almost magic camera can capture an image from a point within reach looking any direction you see fit.

I tried it with the bike attachment – which holds the camera a little way in front of the bike, over the front wheel – and was amazed at the footage which makes it look like I'm cycling toward a perfectly controlled drone. Better still, by syncing with my phone I could draw GPS data and have it overlaid, in the form of a speedometer, by the Insta360 app before sharing.

The only real worry is how naked those glass lenses are when the camera is in use; the joy of re-positioning the camera angle after the fact can be hours of fun. 5.7K is good enough for sharing, but more resolution would help pro work.

Read our full Insta 360 X3 review for more details

Best for travel vloggers

9. Sony ZV-E10

✅ You want ready-to-share footage:  this Sony is made for capturing footage with minimal editing to get up on YouTube and social media straight away. ✅ You want excellent audio:  the ZV-E10 has built-in stereo microphones that capture some of the best audio possible on a camera without external mics.

❌ You are more interested in photos:  the ZV-E10 is not a bad photography camera, but its video focused build means other cameras are better for stills shooters. ❌ You want a viewfinder for framing:  if you love a viewfinder for framing shots, then the Sony A6400 is almost the same camera, but with an EVF. 

The ZV-E10 makes for an excellent traveler's camera and is one of the cheapest vlogging-focused cameras yet. Combined with its slim dimensions, and wide choice of lenses, this makes it a perfect choice for travelers who want to shoot a lot of video. 

The big selling point of the ZV-E10 over other cameras capable of similar video is that the ZV-E10 comes with sophisticated built-in mics and a clip-on windshield for noise reduction, making it much easier to get clean audio on your vlogs even outdoors – which works excellently. Sony has put its years of audio experience into this camera and it shows.

The ZV-E10's 4K UHD video is of excellent quality too, and as we've come to expect from Sony, the autofocus is best in class, whether shooting video or stills. The camera has tracking modes for easy autofocus and digital image stabilization that crops your footage slightly but attempts to iron out any shake, which works well except for in very heavy movement.

And a point worth mentioning is that, while the ZV-E10 may be optimized for vlogging, it's still a capable stills camera with a 24MP sensor, and 11fps burst shooting, so photographers needed worry about restricting themselves with it. 

However, if you are more keen on photography than video, cameras in the Sony a6xxx range (like the Sony a6400 ) offer almost the same specs, but with a viewfinder, but you do lose the built-in stereo mics. Making it a tough choice for a hybrid shooter that might want the best of both worlds. 

Read our full Sony ZV-E10 review

How to choose the right travel camera

These are five key things to look out for when choosing the right travel camera for your needs.

1) Image quality: Ask yourself how you will use any photos or videos you capture. If you only plan to share content online on social media then any of the above cameras will be suitable. If you plan to print your pictures, though, then mirrorless cameras with larger sensors and higher megapixel counts will produce better-quality results.

2) Focal range: What kind of range do you need for your traveling activities? Compact cameras can have impressive zoom ranges, but to achieve their tiny size they often lack quality compared to mirrorless cameras. For mirrorless cameras, what lenses are available? So-called standard zooms are a great option for all types of travel, but they can also be large and heavy. A wide-angle lens might be best for capturing cities and landscapes, or if you are going to see wildlife or a sporting event then a compact telephoto lens might be best.

3) Size and weight: If you're going on vacation then the last thing you want to take is a heavy kit – especially given things like baggage restrictions when traveling. With that in mind, both your camera and lens(es) need to be small and light. If you want something that can fit in your pocket, get a compact camera – but if you don't mind taking a bag, a mirrorless system with one or two lenses could be more versatile. 

4) Simplicity: Don't want to get bogged down with camera settings? Most modern cameras have a range of auto modes – especially compact cameras, which take away the stress. Advanced modes and complicated controls don't usually mix with spur-of-the-moment snaps, so decide what is important to you and pick your camera based on that.

5) Price: The cameras in our list have a range of prices, and we try to include cameras that suit every budget. The price of a camera usually reflects its capabilities, although all the options listed here will take great images and video – so try to strike the right balance between what you need in a camera and what you can afford.

Is it better to use phone or camera for travel?

We covered this a little bit at the start of the article, but the answer is that it is always better to use a camera for stills or video when possible. So the question really becomes, "Do your travel plans make using a camera possible?" Phones are so small and quick to use that they go where cameras are too bulky and slow to shoot. A great compromise is a compact camera – or the Olympus Tough TG-6 , which is a weather-proof camera that goes the places that you wouldn't dare to use your phone! 

Is a DSLR or mirrorless camera better for travel photography?

As a travel camera, mirrorless cameras are usually the better choice for most people. They are much small and lighter than DSLRs, and also usually have a selection of smaller and lighter lenses to match. This makes traveling easier as it takes up less space and weight in increasingly restricted carry-on bags. Mirrorless cameras also are generally newer than DSLRs and most likely have more modern technology, making photography and video easier to capture and of better quality.

What size camera lens is best for travel?

Again, this comes down to what your travel plans entail and what you plan to shoot. The kit lens that comes bundled with many cameras will cover the most commonly used focal ranges, so that's a good place to start (though kit lenses do not deliver the best image quality). We recommend checking out the best lenses for travel photography to see what's right for you.

How we test travel cameras

When we are reviewing cameras, we carefully think about what scenarios each camera could be used for. When considering which cameras would make ideal travel cameras, we judge each camera on how small and lightweight it is for easy packing and transport, as well as carrying for long periods of the day while out exploring. 

We also consider the technical capabilities of each camera, and how suitable they are specifically for travel photography scenarios from beach vacations to safaris, to city breaks. Finally, we consider the price of the cameras to select options that cover a range of budgets and requirements.

We use our real-world experience with each camera and our in-depth camera knowledge to determine a final selection of top cameras that we would recommend as the ideal camera traveling companions.

Want to find out how we test and review DSLR and mirrorless cameras? We trial cameras both in real-world shooting scenarios and in carefully controlled lab conditions. Our lab tests will generally measure resolution, dynamic range, and signal-to-noise ratio, which gives us a benchmark by which to compare cameras. 

Resolution is measured using ISO resolution charts, dynamic range is measured using DxO Analyzer test equipment and DxO Analyzer is also used for noise analysis across the camera's ISO range. Our compact camera evaluations are based on real-world testing alone.

For our real-world testing, our reviewers spend time with each camera, testing it in a variety of shooting situations and providing their qualitative thoughts on how the camera was to use and evaluating the images and video it produced. Here's an example of how we literally take a camera on vacation to evaluate it!

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Gareth is a photographer based in London, working as a freelance photographer and videographer for the past several years, having the privilege to shoot for some household names. With work focusing on fashion, portrait and lifestyle content creation, he has developed a range of skills covering everything from editorial shoots to social media videos. Outside of work, he has a personal passion for travel and nature photography, with a devotion to sustainability and environmental causes.

• James Artaius Editor

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Best travel cameras to buy in 2024

For capturing lasting memories

We updated this roundup in January 2024 to guarantee that our best travel camera picks are in stock and reflect up-to-date prices.

We all take photos all the time to remember important moments, and advances in smartphone photography mean that many of us always have excellent cameras in our pockets or bags. Want better shots than you’re getting from your current smartphone? The answer might be to either upgrade your handset or it may be worth investing in a proper point-and-shoot camera.

Our roundup of the best travel cameras includes a mix of phones and dedicated cameras. Here are our top picks at a glance:

Best travel cameras

Best all-around travel camera

Sony rx100 mk vi.

Best travel camera for vlogging

Best for travel camera for design

Fujifilm x100v.

Best travel camera for value

Google pixel 7a.

Best smartphone camera for video

Apple iphone 15 pro max.

Best travel camera for street photography

Ricoh gr iii.

Best travel camera for zoom

Panasonic lumix tz200.

Best travel camera for ruggedness

Olympus tough tg-6.

Best travel camera for action

Gopro hero 11, what is the best small camera for travel.

Compact cameras are ideal for holidays and travelling, as they’re small enough to fit in your pocket or bag, and often have a battery life that lasts for around 300 shots. A long optical zoom is also invaluable in a travel camera – a 10x optical zoom is able to make an object seem ten times larger from one end of its zoom range to the other, so look for a zoom of 10x or more.

If you’re looking for one do-it-all camera to take on your travels, we’d recommend looking at the terrific Sony RX100 lineup, and if you’re after a phone that produces great shots consistently, it’s worth looking at the latest Google Pixel 8 Pro.

How the GH Tech Team tests cameras

We test the best travel cameras in the same way that you’ll use them – by taking as many photos as we can! Just like when we test instant cameras , we look at how quick they are, and how well they take images in different conditions, like natural light or darker environments. We test close-up shots, look at how well they take photos of people and how clearly videos come out too. We thoroughly research each category, and our list below is a mix of our hands-on tests and expert recommendations from our rigorous research.

We know this has a high price tag, but it’s worth it for how capable this ultra-compact – and actually pocketable – travel camera is.

The long 24-200mm equivalent zoom lens gives you enough range to cover every possible photo situation from portraits to cityscapes and from architecture to landscapes, with impressive image stabilisation and eye-detection autofocus to keep your family photos in perfect sharpness.

It also has a pop-up viewfinder to frame your shots and great video performance too. The only downside here is that some rivals on our list will deliver better results in darker scenarios.

Key specifications

The ZV-1 uses the same overall body design approach and sensor size as the brilliant RX100 models (including the one above), but is a more video-focused camera. It ditches the pop-up viewfinder and comes with a 24-70mm lens that produces great results in low-light conditions, while packing in Sony’s reliable autofocus system.

It’s a top choice for all your stills and candid holiday snaps, but it shines as a vlogging camera, with a fully articulating swivel screen for your compositions, and excellent video quality.

If you love the sound of a digital camera that has a vintage look and works like an old-school film camera, this gorgeous fixed-lens Fujifilm is the way to go. This is our go-to everyday camera, and we love all the classic knobs and dials. It has a single focal length lens, which means no zooming, but we love the ability to customise your settings to get snaps that feel like you shot them on film.

We'd definitely call this much more of an intermediate camera – you'll want to know all about exposure, shutter speed and aperture before you pick one up. This model, and the whole X100 range, have also got a bit of a cult following.

We'll admit that it's hard to find in stock in 2024, with low stock and high demand inflating the price of this camera online. You can set up email alerts via John Lewis to get a notification once they’re available – or join the first-come, first-served waiting list on Wex .

Google's budget-friendly Pixel 7a is an all-around crowd-pleaser for photography. It's one of our favourite phone cameras we've tried, and essentially the overall champion of a recent blind smartphone camera comparison .

That should tell you a lot about how capable this top-value Android is, and how it delivers shots that look great and don't need any editing or tweaks. When it does come to those minor edits, though, Google has included several smart capabilities.

These include the "Magic Eraser" to remove unwanted people from the background and its "Face Unblur" which makes faces less blurry, unsurprisingly. Overall, this is an impressive computational camera, and it's ideal for those everyday snapshots or for capturing travel memories.

Apple’s Pro iPhones get serious camera upgrades every year – and they continue to outclass rivals when it comes to videography. We love the performance of the action mode for stabilised videos, and the cinematic setting makes our everyday clips feel like little movies.

The iPhone 15 Pro and 15 Pro Max also churn out tremendous images time after time, and the combination of its 48-megapixel main camera and the abilities of its “ProRAW” setting preserves loads of detail, dynamic range and colour.

Yes, some smartphones have longer zooms, but we find the three lenses on the iPhone more than enough, and they’ll be great for close-ups, landscapes and everything in between. It's worth noting that while there's a 5x zoom on the 15 Pro Max, you still get a 3x zoom on the 15 Pro. Both can be good for different shots, with 3x being a more natural focal length for portraits, and 5x better for subjects in the distance.

Yes, street photography may seem a bit niche, whether we’re talking about hobbyists or professionals. But the distinct documentary look that is intrinsic to the street photographer’s approach has a real appeal for travel photography too, especially if you want to take shots that capture the essence of your destination.

The crucial thing that you’ll want is a discreet camera that you can use without grabbing attention, and that’s where this basic-looking Ricoh comes in. You’ll look like every other tourist while lining up your artistic compositions under the radar.

The Ricoh GR III’s sensor rivals that of the Fujifilm X100V but comes in a far smaller body that is truly pocketable. It delivers excellent results, and there’s a wide range of Ricoh accessories – including conversion lenses, straps and external viewfinders – to further help you level up your photography in 2024.

This Panasonic has a built-in 24-360mm equivalent lens, making it the best and most capable option in our roundup if you’re after a long zoom. This makes it just about as versatile as it gets, and this is the ideal compact for travel, sport and wildlife photography.

You’ll be concerned about the effect of wobbling hands at the furthest limits of the zoom range, but Panasonic has included a clever optical image stabilisation system that works for both photos and videos.

This should counteract the often ruinous effects of a shaky grip. We like the petite size and sleek design too and, overall, we’re seriously impressed at the size of the lens that Panasonic has somehow crammed into this body.

If you want to take pictures underwater, or need a rugged camera to film your hike or climb in 4K resolution, this model is ideal. It has much more familiar and comfortable ergonomics than a GoPro , and is the better pick if you’re more focused on still photos than video.

The plastic casing is waterproof to 15 metres, shatterproof, dustproof and frostproof up -10C. The image quality is a little bit soft overall, but photos taken close up and underwater are seriously impressive – and it’ll easily fit into a pocket or small bag.

Need a camera that's better suited to thrills and adventures? Whether you're surfing, hiking or running, you'll enjoy a capable video and stills camera that delivers high-resolution, waterproofing and stabilisation in a compact package. Ideally, you'll want a camera that you can attach to mounts and tripods too.

We think you're best off looking at the options from GoPro, with the brand's Hero 11 coming in as one of the best all-around action cameras. This can record 4K video, shoot 27-megapixel snaps, and has GoPro's best stabilisation along with 10 metres of water resistance.

Are compact cameras better than phone cameras?

There are a number of reasons to opt for a compact camera over your phone. These include an optical zoom to truly get closer to your subject (as opposed to a digital zoom that crops into the image), a larger sensor that will deliver more clarity to your images, wider apertures for real depth-of-field (far better than simulating it with portrait mode) and better low-light performance.

If you’re upgrading from your phone and want to improve your photography, a compact camera is a great option. However, it’s worth knowing that some of the best smartphone cameras now have multiple lenses for versatility (including ultra-wide angles that it’s rare to find on dedicated cameras) and impressive “computational” advancements that improve your pictures.

Do more megapixels mean better photo quality?

Not necessarily. You’ll see the number of megapixels (MP) when comparing models, but quality matters just as much as quantity. More megapixels don’t always mean more detail, as some would have you believe.

If you’re planning on making large prints of photos, megapixels can matter, but it won’t matter if you’re just sharing snaps on social media. A higher amount will mean a larger sharp print can be made from the image. Compact cameras tend to range from 12MP to 25MP. All the models on our list have over 12MP, which is more than enough for most people.

How to choose the best travel camera

​​Is your phone camera good enough for travel photography? Depending on the photos and videos you want to capture, the answer may be yes. The system within a phone is likely to be the most compact, convenient and easy-to-use option, but if you’ve used compact cameras in the past and know that’s what you’re looking for, there are a couple of things you’re going to want to consider:

Dimensions and weight

It’s worth thinking about how the camera will be to hold, whether it has a large enough screen on the back and if it has an electronic viewfinder to help compose your photos. If you want a big display, a smartphone upgrade can be one of the best options, as these often have 6-inch displays that make it simple to get the snap you’re after. On a compact camera, a 3-inch screen is typical, but the addition of a viewfinder will make the camera more stable and bringing it up to your eye can be a more natural way to compose an image.

As we’ve explained above, megapixels aren’t the most essential thing to keep in mind while hunting for a camera, but they can be a useful guide to how your snaps will look when you zoom in or if you need to make large prints. If you're just using a portable photo printer this won't matter, but for bigger sizes it may help. It’s also worth having a larger number of megapixels if you think you’ll need to crop your shots when editing them – that extra detail could be essential.

Video resolution

Looking to shoot video too? Consider the resolution the camera is capable of recording at. Some will shoot in HD and others will be able to record 4K videos.

Most compact cameras will have an SD card slot, to fit a wide range of different-sized memory cards. Smaller cameras, like the GoPro models, will take a smaller Micro SD card instead. With a smartphone, you’ll have to think about the built-in storage when you buy. Today’s handsets all come with loads of room, but it’s worth having cloud storage for backups, and enough storage to take a large number of photos on the device. Keep in mind that each photo could take up anywhere between 2-10 MB, and a lot more if you take “raw” format images to edit. Also, it can be a disaster if you’re running out of storage on a memory card, especially when on holiday. We recommend not only getting a card with enough space (at least 64GB) but also investing in a couple of spares too.

Optical zoom

The ability to get closer to your subject without needing to move can be an essential feature of a compact camera. We’ve included a few fixed-lens compact cameras here, as maintaining a focal length can help with consistent photos, but for the most versatility, you’ll want an optical zoom. This means you’re bringing the subject closer without losing quality, whereas a digital zoom will affect the clarity and detail of the image. Smartphones now include multiple lenses to offer a true optical zoom but if you zoom too far, the results will end up pixelated.

Simon Cocks is our Technology Ecommerce Editor, overseeing tech shopping content and strategy across a range of titles including Good Housekeeping , Esquire , Digital Spy and more. 

Simon specialises in testing the latest smart gadgets, home entertainment gear, headphones, speakers, charging kit and smartphones. 

Previously, Simon was part of Good Housekeeping’s Consumer Affairs Team , conducting price comparison research, writing detailed advice guides and editing thousands of in-depth reviews for the Good Housekeeping Institute.

When not testing out the latest gizmos, you’ll find Simon either catching up with the newest releases at his local cinema or out shooting with his beloved compact camera.

You can follow Simon on Instagram at @simonrcocks and on Twitter at @simoncocks .  

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The best compact camera for 2024: top pocket choices to take anywhere

The best compact cameras for phone-beating snaps

• Best overall
• Best affordable
• Best for features
• Best for video
• Best for photo quality
• Best for hobbyists
• Best for zoom
• Best all-rounder
• Best money-no-object
• Best compact instant
• Best vlogging

How to choose the best compact camera for you

How we test compact cameras.

1. The list in brief 2. Best overall 3. Best affordable 4. Best for features 5. Best for video 6. Best photo quality 7. Best for hobbyists 8. Best superzoom 9. Best all-rounder 10. Best money-no-object 11. Best instant 12. Best vlogging 13. How to choose 14. How we test

Whether you’re upgrading from a smartphone or looking for a capable backup camera, the best compact cameras pack versatile shooting skills into pocket-friendly bodies. We’ve comprehensively tested a range of the top options and created this ranked list to point you in the right direction. Our selection covers everything from superzoom travel cameras to the best fixed-lens premium compacts and some of the best vlogging cameras .

We think the best compact camera for most people right now is the Fujifilm X100VI. Successor to the virally popular X100V – our previous favorite compact – it retains the fixed 23mm f/2 lens but adds a 40MP sensor and in-body image stabilization to become an even more accomplished street photography tool. It's retro design is still beautiful, too.

If your budget doesn’t stretch that far – or you want a camera with a large optical zoom range – we also highly recommend the Panasonic Lumix ZS100 / TZ100, one of our favorite travel cameras . It pairs 10x optical zoom with a decent 1-inch sensor to produce rich, detailed images. It also benefits from an accessible touchscreen interface and an electronic viewfinder.

Our guide below targets take-anywhere cameras that offer something more than any smartphone – whether that’s thanks to their handling, viewfinder, zoom, sensor, or a combination of all four. If you’re not sure where to start, you’ll find expert buying advice at the bottom of the page, while links beneath each entry take you straight to the best deals available right now.

Tim is TechRadar's Cameras editor, with over 15 years in the photo video industry and most of those in the world of tech journalism, Tim has developed a deeply technical knowledge and practical experience with all things camera related. He notes, "a number of the compact cameras in this list cost as much if not more than the latest flagship smartphones, but as dedicated tools with superior handling, you shouldn't write them off."

The quick list

Want to get straight to the best compact camera for your needs? Use our quick round-up below to immediately find a compact camera that suits you – and you can read more about it by jumping to our full write-ups and explanations using the links.

The best compact for enthusiasts overall

A sharp street shooter, the X100VI takes Fuji’s TikTok-famous X100 series to new heights, with a 40MP sensor and image stabilization.

Read more below

The best affordable compact camera

A compelling option for travel, the Panasonic ZS100 / TZ100 is a pocket-sized camera with a 10x zoom range and a one-inch sensor.

The best pocket compact for features

With strong image quality, sharp 4K videos and class-leading AF, the RX100 VII is one of the most capable compacts right now.

The best compact for video creatives

A bright lens, superb autofocus and useful design features make the Sony ZV-1 a powerful pocket option for shooting video.

The best photo quality from your pocket

Responsive, pocketable and intuitive handle, the GR IIIx uses a versatile 40mm f/2.8 lens to produce sharp RAW stills.

The best for keen hobbyists

A brilliant compact for enthusiasts, the Lumix LX100 II offers excellent stills quality, responsive autofocus and good physical controls.

Load the next 5 products...

The best compact superzoom

A modest upgrade, the ZS80 / TZ95 is blessed with fast AF , great build quality, pleasing 4K video and a better viewfinder.

The best all-rounder for photographers

The Canon PowerShot G5 X II blends a capable core with useful features, a quality build, and great controls and handling.

The best money-no-object compact

The Leica Q3 is the most powerful, most enjoyable, most expensive compact camera. Price aside, it’s tactile and high quality.

The best compact instant camera

Combining retro looks with point-and-shoot simplicity, the Go produces rich instant prints that are perfect for sharing.

Best for vlogging

This fantastic tool for solo vloggers is super-portable and super-stable thanks to its gimbal, plus it's affordable.

• ^ Back to the top

The best compact cameras in 2024

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

Below you'll find full write-ups for each of the best compact cameras in our list. We've tested each one extensively, so you can be sure that our recommendations can be trusted.

The best compact camera for most people

1. Fujifilm X100VI

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

✅ You want a versatile everyday camera: A sharp sensor and image stabilization make the X100VI a flexible tool for shooting on a daily basis. ✅ You like a retro-modern hybrid: The X100V blends old-school looks with modern features, including a superb hybrid viewfinder.

❌ You want the best value overall: Its new skills are welcome, but the X100V offers many of the same core features for less – if you can find it in stock.

❌ You like to use different focal lengths: The fixed 23mm focal length is a calling card of the X100 series, but some will find it too limiting.

The Fujifilm X100V went viral for its combination of retro style, pocket-friendly proportions, unique hybrid viewfinder and fixed 23mm f/2 lens. The X100VI takes the same concept and upgrades it again, boosting resolution to 40MP and adding in-body image stabilization for the first time. It also borrows the class-leading autofocus from the Fujifilm X-T5 .

In our review, we found images pin-sharp across the entire sensor, with the increased pixel count offering greater flexibility when cropping. Our tests also revealed the X100VI to be a more capable filmmaking tool, courtesy of 6.2K 10-bit video support. Together with impressive subject tracking autofocus and effective stabilization, we think it’s an even more rounded compact for street shooting.

The fixed focal length will still be a limiting factor for some, as will the single UHS-I SD card slot. You need an adaptor for full weather-proofing, too. Given the sold-out demand for the X100V, it’s also unsurprising that Fujifilm has increased the price for its successor. But from our time living with the X100VI, we think it’s the pinnacle of the X100 series, and the best premium compact for everyday use. 

Read our in-depth Fujifilm X100VI review

The best value compact camera

2. Panasonic Lumix ZS100 / TZ100

✅ You want power from your pocket: It's one of the smallest cameras in this guide, yet still boasts a 1in sensor and 10x zoom. ✅ You want a low-cost compact: While it's not exactly cheap, the ZS100 / TZ100 is one of the most affordable options in this list.

❌ You want the best possible image quality: Versatility comes with compromise, and you'll get better stills with some fixed lens options in this guide. ❌ You want a flip screen: The LCD screen is fixed which makes selfies and awkward shooting angles a challenge.

If you're looking for a travel-friendly all-rounder that has a viewfinder and doesn't break the bank, this is the compact camera we'd go for. It's since been succeeded by the ZS200 / TZ200, which is also worth considering – but if you don't need the newer model's slightly longer zoom (15x rather than 10x) and higher-res viewfinder, then you can save money by going for this older classic.

The ZS100 / TZ100 remains a solid middle ground between premium compact cameras with larger sensors (in this case, a 1-inch sensor) and super-zoom models with smartphone-beating reach. Its 10x zoom might now be matched by some smartphones, but in our tests the quality of this camera's lens and image processing produced vibrant, punchy photos with excellent detail. If you're looking to get high-quality images with minimal baked-in processing, then the ZS100 / TZ100 will serve you well and offer a more enjoyable photographic experience than any glass slab.

The downsides include a small and relatively low-res viewfinder, plus a fixed touchscreen. These are symptoms of this camera's age, but a small EVF is still better than no viewfinder when you're shooting in sunny conditions, and this camera otherwise offers modern conveniences like 10fps burst shooting, 4K video shooting and built-in Wi-Fi.

Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix ZS100 / TZ100 review

3. Sony RX100 Mark VII

✅ You need a complete pocket camera: The RX100 VII is arguably the most rounded pocket camera for photo and video. ✅ You shoot action: Lens zoom is limited, but the performance is not with super fast autofocus and continuous shooting. 

❌ You want excellent handling: Small it may well be, the RX100 VII isn't the most ergonomic option available. ❌ You rely on a touch screen: The function of the touch screen is limited, with no support for menu navigation.

In many ways, the RX100 VII is still best compact around right now. Its autofocus system, we found, is comfortably ahead of any other pocket camera, tracking moving subjects with great reliability and making clever use of its Face and Eye AF, even in video mode. Video quality is superb, while image quality is also stellar. But all of this comes at a huge price, and for many people that could be a deal-breaker.

Still, we can't avoid including it in this guide, as it's one of the best options around. If your budget allows, then you won't find a more powerful compact than the Mark VII. But if you're happy to sacrifice some of the latest autofocus features and a microphone jack, check out the RX100 VI, which offers most of its performance but costs a little less.

Read our in-depth Sony RX100 Mark VII review

The best compact video camera

4. Sony ZV-1

✅ You want a powerful vlogging camera: The Sony ZV-1 is the best compact camera for YouTubers right now, shooting smartphone-beating 4K video. ✅ You want a compact you can grow with: Sony has made the ZV-1 simpler for beginners to use, but it's also jam-packed with pro features.

❌ You mainly want to shoot stills: While it's no slouch for stills, the lack of a viewfinder and moderate zoom range will limit some photographers. ❌ You need an all-weather action camera: The ZV-1 is packed with features, but one that's missing is weather-proofing.

If it's mainly video rather than stills that you're looking for from a compact camera, then the  Sony  ZV-1 is the one of the best options around. Not that it isn't also very capable at shooting still photos – it has the same sensor and processor as Sony 's latest RX100 series cameras, after all – but the ZV-1's main strength are its video powers. 

That includes its class-leading autofocus powers, which helps it tenaciously lock onto people and moving objects in your frame. During testing, we found it to do an excellent job of keeping moving subjects in focus and tracking our eyes across most of the frame. Of course, the video quality from its 20.1MP 1-inch sensor is nothing short of impressive as well.

These are backed up by a 3.5mm mic port for boosting audio quality with an external microphone, and a hotshoe to help mount the latter. Its bright 24-70mm f/1.8-2.8 doesn't give you the same reach as the RX100 VII, but it does ensure that you get lovely background blur in both stills and videos – perfect if you mainly shoot portraits or vlogs. 

Sony has since released the ZV-1 II , but for us the successor was a puzzling update that in real world use offered little extra than the ZV-1 to justify its pricier tag. 

Read our in-depth Sony ZV-1 review

5. Ricoh GR IIIx

✅ You want to develop your creative eye: With a fixed focal length lens, exposure tools and a wide range of in-camera edits, the GR III X encourages creativity. ✅ You want a fun pocket camera: Small enough to slip in the pocket, quick to use and intuitive to handle, the GR IIIx is point-and-shoot happiness.

❌ You want a versatile camera: The GR IIIx is as niche as they come. Fixed lens, fixed focal length, modest video specs. This is aimed at a certain type of photographer. ❌ You shoot video a lot: Tech-wise, the GR IIx is way behind today's smartphones for video recording, being limited to Full HD resolution and mono in-camera audio.

 If you’re an avid street photographer there’s no doubt you’ll have heard of the Ricoh GR - a superb series of compact cameras that are famous for their sharp, fixed focal length lens and large APS-C sensor. The Ricoh GRIIIx is the latest model and arguably the best iteration yet if you’re on the hunt for superb image quality, snappy performance, and intuitive handling in a pocket-friendly body.

The “X” in the Ricoh GRIII X’s name denotes a separation to the 2-year old Ricoh GR III but functionally the two cameras are identical, with the only difference being the lenses. The GR III X features a 40mm f2.8 lens versus the standard GR III’s wider 28mm f2.8 option, which may make it a more versatile option depending on your proclivities. Personally, we’d prefer the X’s 40mm for portraiture while the GR III’s 28MM is ideally suited to landscape.

Personal taste aside, the GRIII X is a superb everyday carry camera with new features like the Snap Focus system making it an intuitive camera for capturing decisive moments. A host of excellent customization options make it a great choice for experienced tinkerers with in-camera raw editing and easy sharing via the wireless smartphone connection. Of course, we would have loved to have seen better battery life and a tilt-screen but such omissions are understandable, given this camera’s compact body.

Read our in-depth Ricoh GR IIIx review

6. Panasonic Lumix LX100 II

✅ You want a Micro Four Thirds sensor: The sensor is larger than the 1-inch ones used in most other compacts and produces lovely photos. ✅ You want excellent handling: A sensible size, decent grip, EVF and solid build all combine for a lovely shooting experience.

❌ You want the latest tech: The LX100 II is a fantastic camera but it was launched all the way back in 2018 and feels a little dated with its fixed screen and clunky UX. ❌ You want a speedy shooter: The zoom action is a touch pedestrian; both the zoom lever around the shutter release button and the multi-function control ring respond slowly. 

Compact cameras with sensors larger than 1-inch in size are typically limited to fixed-focal-length lenses, which is great for quality but less so for flexibility. But not the Panasonic LX100 II; it manages to marry a 17MP Four Thirds sensor – the same size as those found inside Panasonic's G-series mirrorless cameras – with a zoom lens equivalent to 24-75mm in 35mm terms, proving that sometimes you can get quality and flexibility at once. 

We found its Leica-badged lens to be very impressive, capturing very good levels of detail that's worthy of pricier APS-C cameras, and its exposure metering system more than reliable. Our tests also show that it handles noise pretty well and produces natural-looking images with faithful colors.

The original LX100 was something of a landmark camera for offering something similar, and this latest iteration takes the baton, with a nippy AF system, robust body, clear 4K videos and a useful electronic viewfinder among its highlights.

Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix LX100 II review

7. Panasonic Lumix ZS80 / TZ95

✅ You want an all-in-one camera: The generous 30x optical zoom covers every shooting scenario and a perfect companion for your travels. ✅ You want to take selfies: A flip-up screen is ideal for anyone who imagines they will be capturing selfies or group shots – particularly as the face detection works so well.

❌ You're after excellent image quality: A 30x zoom lens in any camera let alone one so small like the ZS80 / TZ95 has its drawbacks, namely soft edge detail. ❌ You shoot in low light: The 1/2.3-inch image sensor is much smaller than both flagship smartphones and rivals in this guide, struggling with noise in low light.

With a pocketable body and 30x zoom range, the Panasonic ZS80 / TZ95 is pitched at those looking for the flexibility to shoot a range of scenes, but without the hassle of interchangeable lenses. A small grip and thumb rest make it nicer to handle than many rivals, while a control ring around the lens can be configured for easy adjustments, including zoom and focus. Its sensor is small, but the shooting specs are still not to be sniffed at. 

The ZS80 / TZ95 can shoot 4K video at 30fps, while 10fps burst shooting is decent for a compact. Focusing is similarly speedy, with great face detection. During our time with it, we found the image quality to be generally reasonable. There was some softness around the edge of the frame at 24mm. 

All the same, image stabilization keeps things sharp, with pleasing colors and broadly reliable exposures when shooting in JPEG or raw. The ZS70 / TZ90 might represent better value if you don’t need a high-resolution viewfinder, but the ZS80 / TZ95 is a well-built, comprehensive compact package that’s enjoyable to shoot with.

Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix ZS80 / TZ95 review

8. Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II

✅ You want excellent build quality: Build quality feels great overall, with plenty of attention to detail around all the controls, and a front plate and rear that gives a secure hold. ✅ You're want an everyday shooter: The 24-120mm f/1.8-2.8 lens strikes a nice balance between versatility and image quality, covering most everyday scenarios.

❌ You shoot 4K video: The G5X Mark II can shoot 4K video, but cannot match the superior features from Sony's rival offerings. ❌ You want excellent value: Canon is never cheap, and the G5X Mark II looks like an expensive option compared to its rivals. 

The best Canon cameras you can buy don’t just include full-frame flagships - the Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II is easily one of the top options from the brand currently. It’s not the cheapest option out there currently but it’s a well-rounded camera with a pocket-friendly form-factor and fantastic handling, 

New features for the Mark II include the excellent stacked 20.1MP 1-inch CMOS sensor equipped with the brand’s DIGIC processing engine. Accordingly, this model is now capable of 30fps in raw burst mode, 20fps burst in regular JPEG, and also features a respectable line-up of video specs. Being able to fully capture video at 4K without any crop factor is a particular highlight in such a small body.

Other excellent new additions include USB charging, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth connectivity, which are all fantastic quality of life additions for any camera - especially one at this price point. These additions, combined with the Mark II’s excellent build quality and versatile 24-120mm f/1.8-2.8 lens make this camera an excellent every day carry option and one of best travel cameras in particular.

Read our in-depth Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II review

The best money-no-object compact camera

9. Leica Q3

✅ You like manual control and a tactile experience: The robust dials and shutter button offer the tactile experience that we need to see more of in dedicated cameras.  ✅ You want the best-quality everyday camera: With a super-sharp lens and full-frame sensor, no compact camera can better the Leica Q3 for everyday photography.

❌ You want to push a camera hard: The Q3 has some seriously impressive features, but they work best when in moderate, everyday use. ❌ You’re after great value: There’s no real rival to the Q3, and it does represent reasonable value for a Leica, but $5,995 / £5,300 / AU$9,790 is a lot of anyone’s money. 

Compact cameras can be cost-effective alternatives to interchangeable lens cameras but that doesn’t mean there aren’t superb high-end options. Take the stunning Leica Q3 for example - a full-frame monster that comes complete with the exceptional Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH fixed lens.

Calling the Leica Q3 compact may be a slight stretch - it is, after all, around the same size as the Panasonic Lumix S5 II with a pancake lens, but it is the full package if you’re looking for superlative image quality and almost unparalleled build quality. It’s this latter point that allows the Leica Q3 to stand out from the competition and smartphones. Put simply, the Leica Q3 offers a premium tactile shooting experience that even the best camera phones can’t hope to match. 

And, price aside, the Leica Q3 is an excellent performer. Unlike the well-known M-series rangefinders from the brand, the Q3 is fully autofocus capable, which makes it an excellent everyday carry for the well-heeled. Sure, the autofocus performance doesn’t quite match the best systems on the market right now but the Leica Q3 is the brand’s easiest to use camera yet - and one that scores full marks on style points.

Read our in-depth Leica Q3 review

10. Polaroid Go

✅ You love keepsakes: There's nothing like a physical print and the Go spits out beautiful little prints that you can keep or share with those around you. ✅ You want a small instant camera: Most instant cameras are big and bulky and awkward, but the Polaroid Go is as small as they come. 

❌ You want low running costs: The Go is an inexpensive camera itself, but its instant film is anything but, being costlier than rival Fujifilm Instax film. ❌ You shoot close ups: Most instant cameras are point-and-shoot, but the fixed focus can feel more limiting for close ups than, say, the autofocus in the Polaroid Now. 

Instant cameras are designed for fun – and few make it easier to capture quick, attractive snaps than the Polaroid Go. Pitched as “the world’s smallest analogue digital camera”, its boxy, retro shape means it isn’t as portable as a digital compact camera – but it’s still one of the dinkiest instant cameras you can buy in 2021. Capable of producing credit card-sized prints with dreamy pastel tones and impressive detail, the Go’s greatest merit is its point-and-shoot simplicity. 

The streamlined interface is super easy to use, with a handy digital shot counter for tracking your snaps. Unlike other instant cameras, we found this to be very versatile. Automatic flash can be manually overridden, while self-timer and double-exposure modes add welcome opportunities for creativity – although its fixed focus and lack of a macro mode mean it isn’t quite as flexible as certain alternatives. Film refills aren’t the cheapest, and you do pay a premium for the Polaroid Go’s portability. What you also get, though, is an entertaining, accessible and convenient – not to mention surprisingly capable – instant printing camera.

Read our in-depth Polaroid Go review

1. DJI Pocket 3

✅ You shoot handheld solo vlogs: The three-axis gimbal offers unmatched stabilization, while ActiveTrack works like a virtual cameraman. ✅ You value portability: True to its name, the Pocket 3 is a pocket-friendly solution for shooting steady vlogs wherever you go.

❌ You shoot a lot of photos, too: Low light image quality is improved over the Pocket 2, but resolution is much lower. ❌ You’re happy with your smartphone: If you prefer shooting with your phone, a gimbal mount like the DJI OM 5 might make more sense.

We were already big fans of the DJI Osmo Pocket 2 , yet its successor takes quality and convenience for vlogging to a whole new level, equalling the quality of video by larger models like the Sony ZV-1, all in a super-compact device that'll slide in your pocket, that is also equipped with a super slick three-axis gimbal. It has therefore become our favorite vlogging camera overall. 

The improvement in the video and image quality, now up to 4K 120p, is enough to pick the Pocket 3 over your smartphone for vlogging, as is its super smooth footage thanks to the gimbal. It's also a massively convenient device, comfortably slipping into a pocket, with decent audio quality and compatibility with remote mics. 

There's also a new trick up the Pocket 3's sleeve; multi-aspect video recording. Taking a leaf out the GoPro Hero 12 Black playbook, the Pocket 3's 1-inch sensor is squarer than your traditional 16:9 aspect, so you don't unnecessarily lose detail when switching between horizontal and vertical formats. Heck, the rear LCD screen touchscreen even rotates to instantly switch between those formats. The Pocket 3 is now our top recommendation for most vloggers. 

Read our in-depth DJI Pocket 3 review

When it comes to selecting a compact camera, there are several factors to consider. As the name suggests, all compact cameras promise portability, but there’s more to keep in mind than form factor alone. All of the cameras in our list above offer some combination of versatility, handling, features and image quality. Which specific aspects matter most will depend on what and how you like to shoot. If you can’t find a compact the ticks your key boxes, you might be better off using your smartphone’s camera.

One of the key things to think about is sensor size. All of the best compact cameras should represent a step up from your smartphone. Micro Four Thirds and APS-C options, such as the Fujifilm X100V, are now as prevalent as 1-inch models. 

If you plan on using your compact camera for travel, you should take a closer look at its lens and zoom capabilities. To be worthy of your attention, the latter should offer at least 10x optical zoom, if not more. If you plan on using your camera for street photography or candid portraits, a fixed lens might work better for you. Or if night-time shots are your thing, look for a compact with good noise handling and high ISO capabilities.

Whatever your subject of choice, pay attention to how a camera handles. This is something we cover in our reviews. Most compacts have an electronic viewfinder, but a small number use an optical one instead. Most also feature a touchscreen interface, which makes it more straightforward to upgrade from a smartphone, although not every display can tilt. You should also think about whether manual controls matter to you.

Some features you might not need, but a few – such image stabilization or face/eye tracking – could prove to be useful bonuses. Of course, price is a factor as well, so if the models above are too pricey new, check out their second-hand availability. Our guide on  how to buy a second-hand DSLR or mirrorless camera may be aimed at larger models, but much of the same advice applies to premium compact cameras.

Is a compact camera better than a smartphone?

It’s widely accepted that the best camera is the one you have with you, and this will often be the smartphone in your pocket – especially if you’re looking to capture quick, sharp images for sharing on social media. While the  best camera phone  options are better than ever, though, the top compact cameras remain a cut above their mobile rivals when it comes to image quality and the overall shooting experience.

Larger sensors are an obvious bonus: the sensor inside a premium compact will, in general, be bigger than the one in your average smartphone. This means you’ll get more detail and better low-light performance, which will be evident if you choose to print out your images. It helps that most compact cameras also benefit from high-quality optics.

Only a handful of smartphones offer the versatility of optical zoom. While zoom range varies by model, most of the best compact cameras feature this as standard. Even with huge improvements to the quality of digital zoom technology, it can rarely compete with the quality of optical zoom when it comes to preserving detail.

Many compact cameras also have physical advantages over smartphones. While both types of device are designed to be pocket-friendly, the best compacts feature dedicated buttons and dials that offer greater creative control. Similarly, many of the best compact options feature a small but useful grip that gives them an ergonomic edge over smartphones when it comes to handling. Tilting touchscreens and dedicated electronic viewfinders are also handy for framing, while certain compacts ship with niche features, such as stabilizing gimbals and waterproof bodies. 

Do photographers use compact cameras?

Given their performance and relative portability, most photographers now favor one of the  best mirrorless cameras  as their primary camera. These models are not much bigger than a premium compact, with many numbering among the  best travel cameras , yet they also offer the flexibility of interchangeable lenses.

That being said, many photographers still choose to travel with a premium compact as a second camera. While they might not compete outright with the images captured by top mirrorless models, a reliable compact camera can be a useful tool to keep within easy reach, in case a photo-worthy scene unfolds before you.

This is particularly true for street and travel photographers. A compact is less conspicuous than a professional full-frame camera, making it easier to shoot comfortably in public. The smaller proportions also mean you’re more likely to take it with you whenever you head out, without needing a bulky kit bag.

The same is true for photographers who want to travel light and leave their main camera at home. You’ll rarely see an image from a compact adorning billboard, but the best models can produce images plenty sharp enough for digital assignments and prize-winning pics. That’s especially true if you pick a compact that focuses on a specific niche, such as the Fujifilm X100V with its fixed 23mm f/2 lens – ideal for street and low-light photography.

Real-world tests are the most revealing way to understand the best compact cameras' performance, quirks, and features. So, along with standardized tests for factors like ISO performance, we take every camera we test for a spin to see how it fares in real-world scenarios.

We'll use it both handheld and on a tripod to get a sense of where its strengths lie, and test its startup speed. We also use a formatted UHS-1 card and shoot in both raw and JPEG (if available), testing its burst shooting and buffer performance. 

For autofocusing, we use the different autofocus modes on hand in single point, area, and continuous modes. Naturally, we take a look at how accurate and reliable its metering is, how well it handles noise, and how well it minimizes things like fringing and distortion. Its video shooting skills are tested as well by shooting some test footage at different frame-rates and resolutions.

Of course, we also look at the camera's design, handling, and user interface while getting a sense of what kind of photographer it's most ideal for. Battery life is tested as well over the course of the day with the screen set to the default settings. Once the battery has reached zero, we'll then count the number of shots to see how it compares to the camera's CIPA rating. 

Once all is said and done, we take all our data and everything we've learned about the compact camera and compare it to its price tag to see if it offer great value for your money.

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Tim is the Cameras editor at TechRadar. He has enjoyed more than 15 years in the photo video industry with most of those in the world of tech journalism. During his time as Deputy Technical Editor with Amateur Photographer, as a freelancer and consequently editor at Tech Radar, Tim has developed a deeply technical knowledge and practical experience with cameras, educating others through news, reviews and features. He’s also worked in video production for Studio 44 with clients including Canon, and volunteers his spare time to consult a non-profit, diverse stories team based in Nairobi. Tim is curious, a keen creative, avid footballer and runner, and moderate flat white drinker who has lived in Kenya and believes we have much to enjoy and learn from each other. 

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The 13 Best Compact Cameras of 2024

These are the top point-and-shoot options for epic travel photography.

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Travel + Leisure / David Hattan

What’s the best way to relive your favorite travel experiences over and over again? By taking epic photos that you can upload to social media or transform into a coffee table photo book, of course. Investing in a proper camera with a high-quality sensor and a decent number of megapixels will yield better, more printable results than your phone camera. But that doesn’t mean you need to lug a full-size DSLR and several interchangeable lenses around with you. You can get amazing results with a compact, or point-and-shoot, camera. 

B&H Senior Technologist Mark Steinberg defines a compact camera as one that is “pocketable, with a minimum number of protrusions, that can be used one-handed.” They’re a great option for anyone who prioritizes easy portability or casual photographers who want good results without a steep learning curve. There are several different kinds of compact cameras, from the budget-friendly to the professional quality, and from digital to film and instant. We’ve researched them all to find the best options across several different categories.

Best Overall

Sony cyber-shot dsc-rx100 vii digital camera.

B&H Photo

It has a high-quality sensor, near-instant autofocus, and a lens that fulfills both wide-angle and telephoto functions.

It’s an expensive option for occasional use only.

Chosen by Mark Steinberg as the best overall compact camera, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII is the seventh generation of a series that has been raising the bar for compacts since its inception. It’s simple to use for novice photographers, with enough manual settings to allow for experimentation and growth. The 1-inch Exmor RS BSI CMOS sensor is a major highlight, allowing for high sensitivity with a maximum resolution of 20.1 megapixels. With 8x optical zoom and 24–200mm equivalence, the ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* lens gives you the freedom to switch between wide angle and telephoto photography for everything from landscapes to wildlife.

Whatever your subject, the 0.02-second hybrid autofocus ensures sharp images in both still and video mode. You can shoot single, continuous, burst, and self-timer images and set an upper or lower limit for your ISO up to a maximum of 12800 for impressive low-light results. If film is your passion, you’ll love the camera’s 20 frames-per-second, 4K video for its smooth movement and cinema-quality resolution. When it comes to viewing your footage, framing (and taking) your shot, or scrolling through the menu, use the 180-degree-flip LCD touchscreen. In high-glare conditions, you can also revert to the pop-up electronic viewfinder. 

The RX100 VII offers Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity for instant uploads to social media. 

The Details: 20.1 megapixels | 1-inch Exmor RS BSI CMOS Sensor | 24–200mm lens | 3-inch LCD screen | 4K video | 4 x 2.3 x 1.7 inches | 10.7 ounces | Electronic viewfinder

Best Image Quality

Ricoh gr iiix digital camera.

This camera uses advanced lens and sensor technology to deliver undistorted, true-color images with a high level of sharpness across the entire frame.

If video is a priority, bear in mind that the GR IIIx shoots Full HD rather than 4K.

Suitable for all experience levels, the Ricoh GR IIIx Digital Camera was designed with the express purpose of providing superior image quality. The 26.1mm GR lens offers a 40mm angle of view in the 35mm format that’s meant to mirror your natural field of view. It also uses premium technology to eliminate distortion, render colors accurately, and create amazingly sharp images. This is complemented by the camera’s high-resolution CMOS image sensor, which captures HD detail suitable for large-scale prints with up to 24.2 megapixels. 

Other highlights include the camera’s impressive shake reduction technology and its fast, precise hybrid autofocus with eight focus modes to choose from including one that automatically detects the eyes and faces for perfect portraits. We love that you can shoot in macro, while an interval composite shooting mode allows you to capture star trail images (you’ll need to buy a tripod separately.) These are the unique images that set your travel shots apart. The camera offers Full HD video, a LCD touch screen with instantly adjustable brightness, and 2GB of built-in memory — a lifesaver when your memory card malfunctions at the crucial moment. 

The Details: 24.2 megapixels | 1-inch CMOS sensor | 26.1mm GR lens | 3-inch LCD screen | Full HD video | 4.3 x 2.4 x 1.4 inches | 9.2 ounces | No viewfinder

Best Full-frame Compact

Sony cyber-shot rx1r ii digital camera.

This camera packs the full-frame sensor of a professional DSLR into an unbelievably compact, travel-sized body.

You could buy a good DSLR body and lens for a similar price.

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II is meant for professional photographers with a price tag and learning curve to match. The 35mm full-frame back-illuminated CMOS sensor is the largest available, offering more light, more information, better quality, and a greater dynamic range than the APS-C frame found in standard compact cameras. With 42.5 megapixels and the ability to shoot in uncompressed 14-bit RAW, this camera will produce pro-quality, large-scale prints with an astonishing amount of detail.

The ZEISS Sonnar T* 35mm f/2 lens is fixed with no optical zoom, making it best for wide-angle and close-up subjects (and especially, street photography). The large aperture allows you to work in low light and use an unusually shallow depth of field. And, if you’re familiar with terms like moiré and aliasing, you’ll appreciate the inclusion of the world’s first optical variable low-pass filter for reducing these kinds of distortion. Other perks include super-fast hybrid autofocus, Full HD video with the ability to capture slow-motion HD video, an electronic viewfinder, and an adjustable 3-inch LCD screen. 

The Details: 42.4 megapixels | Full-frame BSI CMOS sensor | 35mm lens | 3-inch LCD screen | Full HD video | 4.5 x 2.6 x 2.8 inches | 1.1 pounds | Electronic viewfinder

Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS200D Digital Camera

You can bring subjects 15 times closer without sacrificing image quality, thanks to its optical zoom.

It’s slightly heavier and bulkier than some of the other compact cameras on this list.

If you want to be able to photograph animals, birds, or any other subject from a distance without forking out thousands of dollars for a DSLR with a telephoto lens, the Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS200D is an excellent option. The Leica DC Vario-Elmar 24–360mm lens offers a 15x optical zoom — which brings subjects 15 times closer without any of the pixelation associated with digital zoom. Optical Image Stabilizer technology means your photos won’t suffer from blurry camera shake either. 

The 1-inch MOS sensor with 20.1 megapixels results in bright, colorful images that lend themselves well to print. You can expand your photographic skills by playing around with traditional aperture and shutter priority modes, or use preset scene and filter modes for instantly different effects. We especially love the camera’s Post Focus feature, which varies the focal point while taking 30 photos per second so that you can go back afterwards and select the best one. In terms of video, shoot in 4K or use high-speed Full HD for instant 120 frames-per-second, slow-motion playback. 

The Details: 20.1 megapixels | 1-inch MOS sensor | 24–360mm lens | 3-inch OLED screen | 4K video | 4.4 x 2.6 x 1.8 inches | 12 ounces | Electronic viewfinder

Best Splurge

Leica q3 digital camera.

This is a professional camera that pays equal attention to still images and video, delivering best-in-class results for both.

It’s not the best choice for those who want telephoto functionality.

The Leica Q3 is an ultra-exclusive option limited to one purchase per customer. And don’t be fooled by its compact size — coming in at just under $6,000, it’s a premium product for serious professionals. It boasts a full-frame BSI CMOS sensor for unparalleled photo and video quality. With a maximum aperture size of f/1.7 and a maximum ISO of 100000, it performs unbelievably well in low light conditions. The Summilux 28mm fixed lens includes an integrated macro mode, making the camera ideal for close-up work as well as wide-angle street photography. 

There’s no optical zoom. However, Triple Resolution Technology with up to 60 megapixels means you can use the digital zoom without losing significant detail. You can also shoot in 36 or 18 megapixel mode to save space on your memory card. Video is equally versatile with multiple formats to choose from including 8K, 4K, ProRes, and Full HD. All of your work benefits from hybrid autofocus and subject tracking, while the Leica FOTOS app can be used for audiovisual content creation. Finally, you can frame shots using the 3-inch display or the OLED viewfinder.

The Details: Up to 60 megapixels | Full-frame BSI CMOS sensor | 28mm lens | 3-inch LCD screen | 8K video | 5.1 x 3.2 x 3.6 inches | 1.6 pounds | Electronic viewfinder

Best for Videos and Vlogging

Canon powershot g7 x mark iii camera.

Designed to shoot high-quality video in vertical or horizontal formats, this camera offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity and can live-stream direct to YouTube.

To realize full vlogging potential, you may need to purchase a tripod and remote control separately.

Looking for the best camera for filming quality reels? The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III is designed especially for this purpose with 4K and Full HD video, the ability to shoot horizontally or vertically, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity to social media, and the ability to live stream straight to YouTube. Whether you’re shooting video or still photos, the fact that you can tilt the LCD touch screen by 180 degrees makes it ideal for framing quality selfies. 

The technology is impressive, too. We’re talking a 1-inch stacked CMOS sensor paired with a DIGIC 8 image processor for exceptionally fast autofocusing, with facial recognition that puts you in the center no matter how much you move around. The 24–100mm lens is suitable for a versatile mix of wide-angle and short telephoto shots, while the f/1.8-2.8 aperture performs well in low light conditions. Finally, the Optical Image Stabilizer reduces camera shake for clear, crisp results. Adding other gadgets is easy. The camera has a 3.5mm microphone terminal and can be purchased as part of a video creator kit that includes a tripod grip and remote control. 

The Details: 20.1 megapixels | 1-inch stacked CMOS sensor | 24–100mm lens | 3-inch LCD screen | 4K video | 4.1 x 2.4 x 1.6 inches | 10.7 ounces | No viewfinder

Fujifilm X100VI Camera

This camera combines state-of-the-art technology with a vintage aesthetic and a full range of film simulation modes.

The lens is fixed, so any zoom comes with the compromise of digital cropping.

First off, the Fujifilm X100VI just looks cool, with a gorgeous silver-and-black or all-black aesthetic reminiscent of a vintage film camera. Beneath the retro exterior lies a cutting-edge X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor with a revolutionary image-processing algorithm for efficient light reception and amazing image resolution at any ISO sensitivity. Thanks to the fixed 23mm f/2 lens, you’ll also get 35mm equivalency in terms of low-light performance and the ability to achieve a shallow depth of field — for a much lower cost than a full-frame compact camera.  

You can zoom digitally by 1.4x or 2x. The 425-point intelligent autofocus system is super fast, while built-in image stabilization reduces the appearance of camera shake by up to six f-stops. And when it comes to video, you can switch between 6.2K, 4K, and Full HD at will. Above all, we love that this camera includes 20 simulation modes inspired by iconic Fujifilm film types ranging from Eterna Bleach Bypass to Nostalgic Neg. You can even shoot using a Grain Effect that replicates the textured look of vintage film photography. 

The Details: 40.2 megapixels | X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor | 23mm lens | 3-inch LCD screen | 6.2K video | 5 x 3 x 2.1 inches | 1.1 pounds | Hybrid electronic and optical viewfinder

Kodak Ektar H35 Half Frame Film Camera

It’s an inexpensive and easy-to-use film camera for maximum fun.

There’s a limit to how much you can do with such a basic setup, so it may not be ideal as your primary travel camera.

Perhaps you feel nostalgic for the days of film, or perhaps you grew up in the digital era and want to experience photography as it used to be. Either way, the Kodak Ektar H35 Half Frame Film Camera is great for film novices, those wanting to stretch their abilities as a photographer, and those who just love the retro look of original film. It’s inexpensive in terms of initial layout and because the half-frame format gives you twice as many images per roll as you’d get from a full-frame camera. 

Weighing in at just three and a half ounces, this pocket-sized camera is made for on-the-go convenience. It features a 22mm f/9.5 lens — so with no zoom and no autofocus, it’s best for wide-angle shots and back-to-basics experimentation that’s as fun as it is challenging. You can frame shots using the optical viewfinder and deploy the built-in flash in low light or at night. The camera is compatible with black-and-white and color film and requires one AAA battery to work. Choose yours in Black, Brown, Sand, or Sage. 

The Details: 22mm lens | 4.3 x 2.4 x 1.5 inches | 3.5 ounces | Optical viewfinder

Best Instant

Fujifilm instax mini evo instant camera.

Not only can you print photos instantly, you can also save a digital version to your smartphone via the app.

You’ll need to recharge after approximately 100 photos.

Available with a retro black or brown leather effect, the Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Instant Camera lets you create 2 x 3-inch prints of your images in approximately 16 seconds. It features an autofocusing 28mm f/2 lens and uses automatic shutter speed and ISO for fool-proof results. Expressing your creativity is easy, with 10 lens effects (including Light Leak, Double Exposure, and Soft Focus) and 10 film effects from Vivid to Sepia. You can use these interchangeably for a total of 100 different possibilities. 

Other features include a built-in flash, a self-timer, a selfie mirror, and a 3-inch LCD screen. What makes this instant camera different from the Polaroids of the past is the ability to use it in conjunction with the INSTAX app. This means being able to use your smartphone as a remote for releasing the camera shutter (handy for group shots and selfies) and being able to save a digital version of your instant prints complete with an INSTAX frame. From there, you can upload them to social media. You can even use Bluetooth to send pictures from your smartphone to the camera to print. 

The Details: 2560 x 1920 pixels | 1/5-inch CMOS sensor | 28mm lens | 3-inch LCD screen | 4.8 x 3.4 x 1.4 inches | 10.1 ounces | No viewfinder

Best Durable

Ricoh pentax wg-90 digital camera.

Drop it, crush it, take it out in a sandstorm or underwater and this camera should still emerge in one piece.

If you’re looking for an underwater camera for scuba diving, scroll on — we’ve found ones with better depth ratings.

When it comes to durability, B&H’s Mark Steinberg recommends the Ricoh Pentax WG-90 above all others. It lives up to its armored appearance with some pretty impressive technical specs. It’s waterproof up to 46 feet underwater for up to two hours of continuous operation, making it ideal for surface water sports or snorkeling. It’s also shockproof against falls from five feet, crushproof against 220-pound-force weights, and dustproof. Heading somewhere cold? Unlike many of the cameras on this list, this one will still operate in temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit. 

Toughness aside, it’s also a great little camera from a photography perspective. The 16-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor offers high sensitivity and minimal noise, even when using the maximum ISO setting (6400.) A built-in ring light and flash help out in low-light situations, while the 28–140mm equivalent lens is suited to both wide-angle and short telephoto use with a 5x optical zoom. Choose from a range of shooting modes including Fish-Eye, Sports, and Handheld Night; or capture moving images with Full HD video. 

The Details: 16 megapixels | 1/2.3-inch BSI CMOS sensor | Equivalent 28–140mm lens | 2.7-inch LCD screen | Full HD video | 4.8 x 2.4 x 1.2 inches | 6.1 ounces | No viewfinder

Best for Action Sports

Gopro hero12 black.

This camera stands out for its Emmy Award-winning video stabilization, 177-degree field of view, and action-ready, rugged build.

With a super wide-angle lens and no zoom functionality, this is a specialist camera for POV filming and photography only.

GoPro’s reputation precedes it in the action sports category, and the latest Hero12 camera really is a thing of wonder. Film High Dynamic Range (HDR) video in 5.3K, 4K, 2.7K, or Full HD. Revel in the 177-degree field of view that shows more of your daredevil POV than ever before. And know that whether you’re jumping out of an airplane or racing at high speed down a mountain, the camera’s HyperSmooth 6.0 video stabilization ensures the footage is super smooth. Turning a full 360 degrees? Horizon Lock keeps the horizon level throughout. 

You can film vertically for direct upload to social media and slow things down by up to eight times for an epic fast-action/slow-motion effect. Meanwhile, Bluetooth audio support allows you to connect headphones for sound recording and remote voice commands. The camera also takes 27-megapixel still photos. Or, you can grab 24.7 megapixel stills from your video. The GoPro 12 is waterproof to 33 feet, can run continuously for over two and a half hours on Full HD, and features a new Enduro battery especially for temperatures down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit. 

The Details: 27 megapixels | 1/1.9-inch CMOS sensor | 12–39mm equivalent lens | 2.3 and 1.4-inch LCD screens | 5.3K video | 2.8 x 2 x 1.3 inches | 5.4 ounces | No viewfinder

Best Waterproof

Sealife micro 3.0 digital underwater camera.

This camera dives as deep as you can and takes the stress out of O-ring maintenance with a permanently sealed body.

It’s very definitely geared towards underwater photography rather than as an all-rounder for topside travel shots.

Unlike the other waterproof cameras on this list, the SeaLife Micro 3.0 is designed with scuba divers in mind. It’s waterproof to 200 feet (exceeding recreational dive limits) and is permanently sealed making it suitable for even the most careless or inexperienced underwater photographer. Use the 100-degree wide-angle lens to get as close as possible to your subject for the best results. You can rely on the built-in underwater color correction to counteract the loss of red tones; or, for the more advanced, there’s a manual white balance option. 

We love the large, f/2.8 aperture for its ability to make the most of limited ambient light. But if you tend to dive deep, the camera is also compatible with single or double after-market strobe sets. The camera delivers high-quality, 16-megapixel images in single or burst shooting mode and can also film 4K or Full HD video. And if you get all the way out to the dive site and realize you’ve left your memory card at home? No problem, the 64GB internal memory’s got your back. Finally, Piano Key controls make for easy menu navigation, even with dive gloves on. 

The Details: 16 megapixels | 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor | 20mm equivalent lens | 2.4-inch LCD screen | 4K video | 4.2 x 2.1 x 2.9 inches | 11.6 ounces | No viewfinder

Best Budget

Kodak pixpro az255 camera.

This is the ideal camera for beginners who want to learn, with automatic and manual settings at a very reasonable price point.

It requires two AA batteries.

If you’re just getting into photography and don’t want to make a major investment just yet, the Kodak Pixpro AZ255 offers plenty of functionality for roughly nine times less money than our overall winner. It uses a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor and is well suited to most kinds of photography with a wide-angle 24mm lens and a 25x optical zoom that brings you significantly closer to your subject without compromising image quality. You can also use the 4x digital zoom, although you should expect some pixelation. 

Optical Image Stabilization helps eliminate blur, a continuous shooting mode ensures you never miss that action shot, and a built-in flash allows for nighttime shooting. And although the autofocus isn’t nearly as advanced as the more expensive models on this list, you’ll still benefit from subject tracking and face detection. Our favorite feature? The ability to keep things simple with 22 preset scene modes or to experiment with aperture priority, shutter priority, and full manual settings. You’re not limited to still photos — this camera also shoots Full HD video. 

The Details: 16 megapixels | 1/2.3-inch BSI CMOS sensor | 24–600mm equivalent lens | 3-inch LCD screen | Full HD video | 4.5 x 3.1 x 2.7 inches | 12.5 ounces | No viewfinder

Tips for Buying a Compact Camera

Understand the specs.

Before purchasing a compact camera, it’s important to understand some of the key specifications to look out for. 

Sensor size: Sensor size has the greatest impact on photo quality and clarity, especially in low-light conditions. The larger the sensor, the better your image quality will be with greater sensitivity and less noise (or graininess). B&H Senior Technologist Mark Steinberg says that BSI, or Back Side Illumination, sensors are superior for their ability to increase light-gathering efficiency. 

Megapixels: A megapixel equals one million pixels. Pixels are the tiny digital squares that make up your image and the more you have, the more detail you’ll capture. Most digital cameras offer sufficient megapixels for viewing on a screen. But the number of megapixels becomes important when zooming in on an image, cropping it, or printing it. Look for a higher number of megapixels if you plan on printing your photos, but bear in mind that more megapixels means larger files and less space on your memory card. 

Zoom: If you plan on photographing wildlife or anything else that requires a zoom, it’s important to understand the difference between optical and digital zoom. Optical zoom brings the subject closer before capturing the image, with a lens that extends outwards from the camera body. This preserves photo quality. Digital zoom simply crops and resizes a smaller section of the original image, resulting in a blurrier, grainier picture. 

LCD screen: The LCD screen is important because it allows you to view and compose your image before taking a picture. It also allows you to play your images back and scroll through the settings menu. Therefore, it’s important to choose a high-resolution LCD screen that displays colors accurately, even in bright light. It also needs to be big enough for you to see details clearly. Some point-and-shoots offer touchscreen capability for increased ease of use. 

Viewfinder: Many compact cameras lack a traditional viewfinder (the hole you look through to view and frame your image). But if you plan on shooting in bright conditions, investing in a camera with a viewfinder is helpful for when glare impacts your ability to see the LCD screen clearly. 

Video resolution: Video resolution refers to the number of horizontal and vertical pixels. The more you have, the more detailed your footage will be. Look for Full HD (1920 x 1090 pixels) as a minimum or 4K (3840 x 2160 pixels) for premium, cinema-quality video. 

Prioritize quality

It goes without saying that for the best results, you should spend as much as you can afford on the best quality camera possible. All of the specifications detailed above are worth considering, but if you focus on just one thing, Steinberg says that the most important factor in terms of image quality is the type and size of the sensor. If you plan on printing your vacation photos or using them to create a photo book or other memento, a reasonable number of megapixels (10 or more) is key. Finally, Steinberg points out that build quality and manufacturer support are also important. 

Choose a camera based on your skill level and goals

Having said that, there’s no point in spending a fortune on a high-end compact camera with advanced specifications if all you really want is a simple way of capturing fun vacation snaps for social media. Beginners should prioritize cameras that are intuitive and simple to use. If your goals are more ambitious, Steinberg recommends looking for manual settings that will allow you to fine tune shutter speed, aperture size, and ISO for the best results. 

It’s also worth considering where you’re traveling and your planned activities. If your camera will be exposed to dust, sand, humidity, or water, then looking for one that’s IP rated against dust and water ingress is crucial. When it comes to interpreting IP numbers, remember that the first number after the IP relates to dust while the second number relates to water. Only water ratings of seven or higher are fully waterproof. Scuba divers should be sure to check depth ratings.

In addition to considering all of the specifications listed above and how they relate to your requirements, Steinberg says it’s important to consider the ergonomics of the camera. Does it feel comfortable in your hands and next to your face? Are the controls and buttons easy for you to access and operate? Can you view the LCD screen clearly and does the menu navigation system make sense? You should also think about the ease of use. If you’re not sure, consider booking a free in-person or virtual appointment with a B&H expert to talk through different options.

Absolutely, and especially if you choose one with a decent number of megapixels. It’s generally accepted that in order for an image to be made into a high quality print, it needs to have 300 pixels per inch (300 PPI). The number of megapixels required to achieve this depends on how big you want your prints to be. For a standard 6 x 4 inch image, you’d need at least 2.2 megapixels. For a 5 x 7 inch image, you’d need at least 3.2 megapixels. It’s also worth remembering that good printing results are dependent on printer and paper quality too.

Before we tackle this question, it’s important to note that while compact cameras lack a mirror (and mirrorless cameras are more compact than DSLRs), mirrorless cameras are not the same as compact cameras for the purpose of this list. We’ve focused on point-and-shoot cameras for novice photographers and more advanced photographers who prioritize portability. Advantages of point-and-shoots over DSLRs include reduced size and weight, ease of use, and cost. 

Mirrorless cameras were introduced in 2004 and have since evolved to compete with DSLRs as the category of choice for intermediate and professional photographers. They have a larger sensor than a traditional point-and-shoot, offering superior image quality. They’re bulkier, cost a lot more, and come with interchangeable lenses. The key difference between mirrorless and DSLR cameras is that mirrorless cameras let light hit the sensor directly whereas DSLRs use a mirror to reflect light onto the sensor. 

This difference makes mirrorless cameras quicker and quieter — key advantages for fast-action and wildlife photography. High-end mirrorless cameras can also offer superior autofocus and better performance in low light conditions. DSLRs still hold the edge in terms of viewfinder accuracy, battery life, and a greater range of compatible lenses.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Jessica Macdonald has been writing about travel gear for more than a decade. She’s also a professional photographer who has sold images to many publications including Travel + Leisure. Although she typically shoots with her trusty Nikon DSLR, she has often used compact cameras especially for underwater photography. For this article, she conducted hours of online research and consulted the opinion of Mark Steinberg , a B&H Senior Technologist.

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Best travel camera 2024: versatile cameras for holidays

T3’s roundup of the best travel cameras available to buy right now

When we’re on holiday or a special trip, we probably take the most pictures - therefore it makes sense to pick up the best travel camera rather than solely relying on your smartphone.

Despite a couple of years of travel restrictions, the travel camera market is still filled with a wide range of different models. No matter what your budget, skill level or genre requirements, there’s something that will suit you out there.

Many of our buying guides settle on one particular camera as an outright winner. It’s harder to do that when it comes to travel cameras since there are lots of different reasons why something could be considered a good travel camera.

As such, our list is fairly diverse, giving you a good range of options to choose between depending on exactly what you need.

It’s always a good idea to reserve a healthy budget for a travel camera, especially if you’re embarking on a particularly exciting or unusual trip. After all, long after you’ve returned home, you’ll still have the pictures to look back on if you choose well.

Cameras equipped with a large zoom are also often touted as ideal travel cameras, giving you the option to take pictures from landscapes to faraway subjects with ease. If that’s what you require, there are a couple of small compact cameras on our list, as well as more advanced (and bulkier), bridge cameras.

How to buy the best travel camera for you

Why you can trust T3 Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out more about how we test .

When it comes to buying the best travel camera, you’ll probably be facing a decision between portability and image quality. Picking up something which neatly fits in a pocket or bag makes a lot of sense if you’re restricted on your baggage allowance. 

That said, if you’re aiming to capture memories that will last a lifetime, you might argue that having the best flexibility with different lenses and so on is the most sensible choice. 

For those in the former camp, the Sony RX100 VII is probably the best choice, but if your budget isn’t enormous then it likely won’t appeal. In which case, have a look for older RX100 models which are still great cameras and come in at different price points. The Panasonic TZ200 is also a fantastic alternative that gives you a decent zoom paired with a one-inch sensor for good all-around travel shooting.

• Best compact camera
• Best mirrorless camera
• Best action camera
• Best instant camera

Another type of travel photographer is the “adventure” type. If that's you, then the market leader and obvious choice is the GoPro Hero 10 Black. You can use it to grab videos (and even some stills) of your most daring exploits, up mountains, under the sea, and even for more sedate activities such as poolside and beachside activities. 

If you’re the type whose main reason for going on holiday is to capture photographs, then it will be image quality that is at the forefront of your mind. If you still want to travel light, then models which use a sensor smaller than full-frame make for the best compromise. 

There’s the Nikon Z50, an APS-C model which is well-suited to travel, as well as cameras such as the Fujifilm X-T30 and the Canon EOS M6 Mark II. There are also Micro Four Thirds models such as the Panasonic G90 and the Olympus PEN E-P7 which with their overall very small system size give you the most flexibility. For those that do want to go full-frame, cameras like the Nikon Z6 II make a lot of sense. 

Bridge models make for excellent travel options, giving you a bit of everything all in one model. The best ones out there right now are the Sony RX10 IV and the Panasonic FZ2000, but if zoom is your main concern, then the Nikon P1000 offers a ridiculous 125x zoom - ideal for safaris. 

Finally, there’s another two types of compact cameras. The first are long-zoom models such as the Canon SX740 which although offering a large zoom compromise on image quality by offering a small sensor. Then, you’ve got fixed lens models such as the Fujifilm X100V which offer superb image quality, but only one focal length to shoot with.

There’s always a compromise to be made, so with all of these things considered, read on to find one which is best suited to your needs.

The best travel cameras you can buy today

1. Panasonic TZ200

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

For the ultimate marriage between high portability while keeping high-image quality, the TZ200 is currently the best around. Panasonic has kept the predecessor, the TZ100 in the line-up, giving you two options depending on your budget. 

For the extra cash, the TZ200 gives you greater flexibility with a 15x optical zoom lens, a higher resolution electronic viewfinder, a slightly better screen (which is touch-sensitive, but fixed in place), and an improved battery life. 

Ergonomics have also been improved by the addition of a strip along the front of the camera to help you get a better grip on it. Although relatively expensive, the TZ200 is a fantastic all-rounder without too much compromise.

• Panasonic TZ200 review

2. Sony RX100 VII

If budget is no problem, there should be nothing stopping you from investing in the RX100 VII. It offers pretty much everything you could ever hope for in a pocket-friendly camera. The large one-inch sensor produces excellent results, while the highly flexible zoom lens gets you nice and close to the action, while also being wide enough for excellent landscapes and interior shots. 

A pop-up viewfinder is great for traditionalists when it comes to composing, or if the sun is a little bit too bright to see the screen properly. Video specifications are also good, with a new microphone socket no doubt appealing to the travel vlogging community - of which there are many. 

If you’re a mainly a stills shooter, there’s little to be gained from picking up the VII compared with the ever so slightly older VI, while others down the line are also still fantastic buys if you don’t need such a long zoom. 

• Sony RX100 VII review

3. Nikon Z30

Baby sister to the existing Z 50, this time Nikon has online influencers, vloggers and content creators of all descriptions in its sights, though its compact size also makes it well suited to travel. Whatever its eventual audience, it’s selling its smallest mirrorless camera to date as ‘video first’, meaning the option of up to 35 minutes of 4K video in a single sequence, or 125 minutes of Full HD video. Omitting both an eye level viewfinder and built-in flash as result, swift operation centres around the tilt and swivel LCD screen at the back, and of course the 20.9MP APS-C sensor at its heart. 

Despite the slimmed down Z 30 design, we still get a reassuringly chunky handgrip that makes for steady one-handed recording. Resulting imagery delivers plenty of contrast and detail, while the built-in stereo microphone also impresses.  Photos are crisp and sharply rendered too, via the 16-50mm kit lens.

With the ability to add an external mic for even better sound and a hotshoe for various accessories, this one can be expanded beyond what initially emerges from the box. If we’ve a grumble it’s that the body-only price is a little high for a ‘starter’ option. So seek out the lens and accessory bundles available that suggest better value if you’re stepping up to this from a smartphone and don’t already own a bunch of Nikon lenses.

• Nikon Z30 review

4. Fujifilm X-T30

Much like the X-T20 before it, the X-T30 borrows the best bits from the X-T3 and delivers them inside a smaller, lighter and more affordable body. It's a winning combination which made the T20 Fujifilm's most popular model. 

Quite franky, we think the Fujifilm X-T30 could be the perfect camera for most people. It's got a tough body (although, not weather proof), lightening fast auto focus performance, and, most importantly, great image quality straight out of the camera.

If you need even more reasons to buy one, the T30 is also capable of recording beautiful 4K video, and it can do all this for a very reasonable price.

• Fujifilm X-T30 review

5. Canon EOS R7

With the aim to make smaller yet high speed and high performance cameras ideally positioned for enthusiasts, Canon has, for once, deviated from the full frame sensor models that make up its enthusiast and pro-targeted EOS R mirrorless camera series. Both the EOS R7 shown here and simultaneously released R10 incorporate physically smaller APS-C sensors, as commonly found in its consumer-level DSLRs. The EOS R7 is the bigger brother of the two, featuring a 32.5MP resolution. Given this, its intended audience, says Canon, is wildlife photographers, who will relish the extra detail, along with sports photographers. The latter group will benefit from the fact that this camera, along with its lower resolution sibling, has the fastest continuous mechanical shutter of an APS-C EOS camera at 15fps, with the alternatives, via use of the electronic shutter, being 30fps and 23fps.

As with most mirrorless touch screen cameras these days, on the EOS R7 we can bias which portion of our frame is in focus, here via a Touch and Drag AF feature. This Canon is also claimed to make history in being the first camera in the EOS R system to have a combined AF multi controller and control wheel, thereby enabling fast and convenient setting and playback function adjustment via a single thumb movement or dial rotation.

The EOS R7 additionally features what Canon claims as the world’s highest level of image stabilisation, equivalent to 8 stops. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity is offered on both this camera and its R10 brother, again as we’d expect from a contemporary digital camera. 

In conclusion, the deal here is essentially that we’re paying a bit more if we need the higher resolution and extra bells and whistles of the EOS R7 – otherwise we can save a few hundred quid and opt for the lower resolution but still similarly featured EOS R10 instead. Both are obviously targeted at ensnaring Canon users who have been thinking about physically downsizing from existing and typically bulkier DSLRs. That also makes this option and its sibling an ideal travel companion.

• Canon EOS R7 review

6. Nikon Z50

If your budget can’t stretch to a Nikon Z6 – or you just want something even smaller - there’s a lot to like about the Z50. It uses an APS-C sensor, rather than a full-frame, which means that Nikon has been able to distil the great handling of the Z series into an even smaller body. Image quality will likely still be fantastic - especially in good holiday light - while there have even been lenses that are specifically designed for it to keep the size down. 

For now, there’s not a huge range of native Z lenses to choose from, but the system is steadily growing as time goes on. The Z50 also benefits from a screen that faces all the way forwards, great for grabbing those vacation selfies. 

You may also want to think about the more recently announced Nikon Zfc , which features the same internals as the Z50 but with a beautifully retro-styled chassis. Nice.

• Nikon Z50 review

7. Panasonic FZ2000

For those who want the flexibility of multiple lenses, without the hassle (or expense) of carrying them around, then a bridge camera such as the FZ2000 is the ideal choice. Packing a 20x zoom, you’ve got lots of options to photograph a range of different subjects, while the one-inch sensor inside performs well in a variety of conditions. You’ve also got some decent video specs on offer here, and while the camera is relatively bulky (you won't fit it in your pocket) when you think about what it can offer, that still makes for a good travel option.

8. Canon EOS R10

 Looking outwardly identical to the EOS R7 model introduced alongside it, the APS-C sensor incorporating EOS R10 in fact offers a lower but still very respectable 24.2-megapixel resolution, as opposed to its sibling’s 32.5MP. So it’s a case here of pay your money and make your choice, with the R10 unsurprisingly coming in a few hundred cheaper. That’s a saving that can theoretically be spent on more lenses and accessories, of which, this being Canon, there are many.

Aside from being a money-saving option in comparison with its R7, the R10 will appeal to those looking for an all-rounder, as suited to video as it is stills capture. It’s still smaller and more manageable in terms of size than the average DSLR, which also makes it a good option for travel photography. As we’d expect, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth is integral to the camera here and, as with the more expensive option, the R10 retains the ability to continuously shoot with its mechanical shutter at 15fps, or if utilising an electronic shutter instead, being able to get up to 23fps. Like its bigger brother this camera also features a vari-angle LCD screen, thus enabling a wider variety of shooting angles and, in theory, expanded creativity.

If you don’t mind compromising on a few features found on its R7 sibling but not found here, such as dual card slots as opposed to the one card slot, or the omission of body integral image stabilisation, the Canon EOS R10 should prove a capable tool for photographers and videographers looking to begin their mirrorless photography journey; or a literal one, if choosing this camera as a travel-friendly option.

• Canon EOS R10 review

9. Canon G5X Mark II

A great all-round premium compact camera, the G5X Mark II might not be quite jeans-pocket friendly, but it should certainly fit well within your bag or jacket pocket. It’s got a good range of features, with a well-performing one-inch sensor at its heart, which is coupled with a fairly flexible 24-120mm zoom lens. In terms of video, it offers uncrossed 4K recording, but unlike its sibling, the G7X Mark III, it doesn’t offer a microphone socket or live streaming to YouTube – so if you’re a dedicated travel vlogger you might want to look that way instead. If you like composing through a viewfinder, the G5X Mark II features a small but perfectly usable pop-up number that is great for using in bright light.

10. Nikon Z6 II

One of the best all-rounder models on the market, the Nikon Z6 II is a good option for those who want premium image quality on their travels. 

An incremental upgrade from the original Z6, the Z6 II adds dual memory card slots - giving you peace of mind while on your travels since you can back up your shots as you go.

Internally, you get a well-performing sensor and processor combination. Usability of the camera is great, with a lovely viewfinder and screen set up. There’s now a good range of lenses for the Z range, including zooms ideal for travel such as the 28-120mm lens.

Although bulkier than some of the models in our list, if your travels are to take pictures, then something like this is certainly worth considering, while it shouldn’t break the bank too badly. That said, if you think you can live without that secondary card slot - take a look at the original Z6 for a bit of a bargain.

11. Panasonic G100

At launch, Panasonic touted its G100 camera as the “ultimate” vlogging camera. So, if travel and video-creation go hand in hand for you, this could be just the model you need. With its small and compact size, it’s also a good option for stills photography - so if you like to record a variety of formats it’s worth considering. 

Being in the Micro Four Thirds format makes the overall system very small, so you can also bring a bag of compatible lenses along with you for the trip, while still having plenty of room in your hand luggage. 

Having a smaller than APS-C or Full-Frame sensor means that this camera isn’t so adept at low light, but for many travel situations that won't be too much of a problem. 

12. Canon EOS M6 Mark II

Using the same ultra-high-resolution sensor as the 90D DSLR, the Canon EOS M6 Mark II is a great option for travel thanks to its small size and weight. Despite that, it packs some incredible features like 14fps shooting and uncrossed 4K video recording. It doesn’t have an inbuilt viewfinder, but you can purchase one separately if you feel the need to buy one - if you’re used to composing shots on your phone, you’re likely to be a little less bothered. The 15-45mm kit lens supplied with the camera is a decent walk around and travel lens, but if you crave something a little sharper, go for the 32mm f/1.4 lens. 

13. Sony RX10 IV

To use the term bridge camera with the RX10 IV would be doing it a disservice, as this term has generally been met with snooty derision from “serious” photographers. While it may well be one in the strictest sense of the word, the RX10 IV arguably redefines the genre, producing the ultimate all-rounder which is ideally targeted at travellers who want the image quality of an interchangeable lens camera and a bunch of optics, but don’t want to carry them around. 

Here you’ve got a 25x optical zoom lens, which also manages reasonably wide apertures of f/2.4-4 (particularly impressive at the 600mm end), along with a high-quality EVF, fantastic AF system and a very well performing sensor. Take this on your safari holiday and you won’t be disappointed - just be prepared to shell out the big bucks.

14. Fujifilm X100V

Although at first something with a fixed lens might seem to be the antithesis of a travel camera, it very much depends on what kind of holiday you’re going on. 

For city breaks where you might be partaking in street photography, the Fujifilm X100V is arguably perfect. Yes, there’s a fixed lens - but that just means you need to get closer to the subject. 

What you get in return is a large sensor, fantastic image quality and, let’s face it - a lovely looking camera that's also a joy to use.

15. GoPro Hero 10 Black

If you want something which you can take with you on all of your adventures, especially if video is your thing, then you can’t really get better than the GoPro Hero 10 Black.

This action camera is the company’s most powerful and streamlined version yet, giving you video recording options all the way up to 5.3K. It’s also fully waterproof and is easier to use than previous models thanks to a more responsive touch-sensitive screen.

Most importantly, video quality is excellent - especially if you’re taking in some rocky action and need it to be as smooth as possible.

Easily one of the best compact system cameras on the market, the Panasonic G9 is a great all-rounder for a wide range of travel subjects. If you’re shooting wildlife, the 20fps (at full resolution) burst speed is sure to appeal, while the fine detail and excellent colours produced by the sensor make it good to capture landscapes, portraits and everything in between. 

While the G9 may be relatively bulky for a compact system camera, since the Micro Four Thirds system is small, you can fit a slew of lenses in your hand luggage while barely noticing they’re there - something you won’t get with a full-frame alternative.

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Amy Davies is a freelance journalist that covers cameras for T3 and many other sites. She is also Features Editor at Amateur Photographer magazine and, when she's not writing about cameras, she's probably taking pictures of her cute dog.

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5 Best Compact Cameras for Travel in 2024

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With the best compact camera for travel, you can capture stunning images and videos without being weighed down by heavy equipment. But which compact camera is best for your next adventure?

Are you looking for a simple photography camera? Are you a travel vlogger? Or are you an intrepid explorer who needs a robust travel companion? Our list has compact cameras for all types of travelers.

The Sony ZV-1 II is our top choice for the best compact camera for travel. Its pocket-sized body makes it super portable. It also has specialist features for vlogging, like a built-in mic and rotating touchscreen, and it takes gorgeous still images. It’s the perfect camera for the modern traveler.

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As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

What Is the Best Compact Camera for Travel?

The best compact camera for travel should be small and easy to carry wherever you go, but it shouldn’t compromise on results. The Sony ZV-1 II , Panasonic TZ200 , and OM System Tough TG-7 top our list for those reasons.

With a compact camera, just because it’s not an interchangeable lens doesn’t mean you can’t capture incredible photos and videos. All the cameras on our list prove that compact doesn’t mean compromise.

Some have larger sensors than others, but you can expect gorgeous images from each one. And some of the cameras even produce stunning 4K video footage.

Other handy features for travel photographers? They include a zoom lens, accurate autofocus (AF), and specialist shooting modes. You might also want some durability so you and your camera make it home in one piece.

You can see our selection of the best compact cameras for travel in the table below. We take a closer look at each camera in the section after. Then we have a buyer’s guide at the end if you need more information to help you.

• Compact size for easy transportation
• Fixed 18-50mm lens with f/1.8-4.0 max aperture
• Eye-detection and tracking autofocus
• Webcam functionality
• Built-in 3-capsule microphone with sound muffler
• 4K video at 30 fps and 120 fps in Full HD
• In-body 5-axis stabilization
• Very useful 15x zoom
• Sharp and clear 4K video
• Impressive battery life
• Rugged, waterproof, dustproof, freezeproof, crushproof
• Fixed f/2.0 lens with 4x zoom range
• Five underwater shooting modes including underwater HDR
• Macro modes with 0.4 inch / 1 cm min focus distance
• 4K video with high-speed frame rates and vertical mode

• 26 MP sensor for good noise reduction and fast readout
• Sharp JPEGs with low noise
• 15 quality film simulations
• Hybrid optical/electronic viewfinder
• Tilting touchscreen
• Excellent 4K Ultra HD video

• Impressive lens quality in a compact camera
• 24-600mm equivalent zoom lens
• Superb 24 fps burst speed
• 4K video with several frame rate options

5 Best Compact Cameras for Travel

1. sony zv-1 ii.

The Sony ZV-1 II is the best compact camera for travel right now. Its high-resolution sensor and specialist vlogging features meet the needs of modern travelers. It’s an all-in-one content-creation camera small enough to carry in your pocket.

The 18-50 mm zoom lens offers decent composition flexibility. Although it doesn’t offer much magnification, the wide angle is perfect for filming vlogs and travel footage.

The optical quality of this Zeiss lens is excellent. Its f/1.8 to f/4 max aperture provides good low-light performance.

This entry-level Sony mirrorless is equipped with a small yet powerful CMOS sensor. Its 20 MP resolution is impressive for a one-inch sensor, and its images look fantastic on social media. You can even expand the low ISO to 80 to help you maximize image quality.

But most users choose the ZV-1 II for its video features. And the standard 4K footage at 30 fps is terrific. But you can switch to Sony’s special Cinematic Vlog Setting to make your video content more unique and eye-catching.

A built-in three-capsule mic helps you record audio with your video. You don’t need any extra audio equipment, which helps you travel light. The camera also comes with a wind muffler, so voices come through loud and clear when shooting outside.

Real-time autofocus keeps your subjects in focus as they move around the frame. The sophisticated system also has face and eye detection, which is ideal for filming people.

It also has gyroscopic video stabilization that reduces the effects of camera shake. This is handy if you don’t have a travel tripod or stabilizer.

The Sony ZV-1 II is the must-have compact camera for the traveling vlogger. It has everything a vlogger needs when traveling abroad. And it’s a worthwhile investment if you’re serious about creating exciting travel content.

2. Panasonic Lumix ZS200 / TZ200

The Panasonic Lumix ZS200 (TZ200) is a pocketable compact camera . It comes with an impressive retractable 15x zoom lens. Weighing 0.75 lb (340 g), it feels solid in your hand, thanks to the metal body.

It has a large 20.1 MP, one-inch sensor to ensure high image quality. Although not very fast, the zoom lens of the ZS 200 covers an impressive 24-360mm focal range. This is ideal for travel photography.

Low-light performance is good thanks to the five-axis Hybrid OIS stabilization. You can raise your ISO to 25,600. But aggressive noise reduction at the higher ISO values might make the image look too smooth.

Images are composed and reviewed with the large three-inch LCD screen. Although it’s not tiltable, it has touchscreen capabilities. The ZS 200 has plenty of auto modes to make it easier for beginners. Experienced users will enjoy switching to manual.

The Lumix ZS200 features 4K/30 video and a 4K Photo mode. You can extract single frames and save them as 8 MP still photos.

Battery life is good, ensuring about 350 shots before recharging. Another great feature for the travel photographer is the AC charger. This Olympus OM System camera can also be charged via USB using a portable power bank.

3. Olympus OM System Tough TG-7

The Olympus OM System Tough TG-7 is the best rugged compact camera on the market. Tough isn’t just a clever name with this one. It really can cope with the toughest of tough conditions. So, if you’re the more adventurous type of traveler, this is the camera you need.

It’s completely waterproof down to 50 feet (15 m). And we don’t just mean it’ll survive a dip in the water. You can use this camera underwater ! It even has five specialist underwater photography modes.

It’s also shockproof and withstands drops over 6.5 ft (2 m). Through dust-proofing allows you to use the camera in dry, desert-like conditions. And Arctic explorers can keep shooting in temperatures as low as -10 C. You can take this camera anywhere.

We’re disappointed OM System hasn’t improved the sensor resolution from the previous model. It stays at a modest 12 MP, which isn’t great compared to other modern cameras. But the picture quality is still accurate, rich, and vibrant. Your pics will look great on social media.

A 4x zoom lens gives you decent magnification and shot variety. And the constant f/2 maximum aperture gives you solid low-light performance.

The in-camera macro modes are a brilliant way to capture details close up. Nature lovers can snap detailed images of all the new flora in an exotic country.

Thrill seekers can use this Olympus OM System as a rugged action camera . You can attach it to your handlebars or helmet and record exhilarating 4K footage at 30 fps. And if 30 fps isn’t fast enough, switch to Full HD for a smoother 60 fps video frame rate.

The OM System Tought TG-7 is the perfect compact camera for wild, adrenaline-fueled travels. It can withstand the toughest conditions and helps you bring home some fabulous media.

4. Fujifilm X100V

The Fujifilm X100V is one of the most popular cameras among street photographers . It looks fantastic with a classic rangefinder design. It’s compact and easy to hold for hours at a time.

The weather sealing protects it from bad weather. Combine all that with outstanding image processing powers, and you’ve got one of the best compact cameras for travel.

Although it’s a compact camera with a fixed lens, it has a powerful APS-C sensor. The 26.1 MP resolution gives vibrant images with rich colors and details. The quality is far superior to most smartphones, even beating many interchangeable-lens cameras.

A 23mm focal length gives you a lovely wide angle for street-style travel shots. The wider field of view helps you snap images in tight spaces like old European streets or crowded markets. It also has an f/2 maximum aperture, giving you brilliant low-light performance.

The native 160 t0 12,800 ISO range isn’t great, but you can expand the top end to 51,200 if you’re in a dark location. There’s also a low ISO setting of 80, allowing you to boost image quality in stunning locations.

Fujifilm has used its knowledge and heritage of film photography to create fantastic film simulation modes. Each mode gives you images that replicate the finish of one of their iconic film stocks. They have simulations of color and black-and-white films.

Thanks to the glorious 4K video recording, this Fujifilm mirrorless is ideal for video travel logs. It offers a smooth 30 fps frame rate at full resolution and 10-bit 4:2:2 color via the HDMI port. The 120 fps frame rate option enables full HD slow-motion videos.

The X100V ‘s size, durability, and retro style make it a top choice for traveling street photographers. It fits in any camera backpack without fuss and is an absolute joy to shoot. It’s the best compact camera for travel if you love street photography.

5. Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV

The Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV is the most expensive camera on our list. But the price is justified by the camera’s performance, which will appeal to expert and pro photographers on the move.

The RX10 is a rather bulky, DSLR-style bridge camera . It’s not the lightest and most compact camera on our list. But it packs a wonderful zoom lens, covering an impressive 24-600mm range. And it is bright, too, having an f/2.4-4 variable aperture.

Optical stabilization is very effective. Combined with the fast aperture, it makes taking good images in low-light conditions easier. Another interesting feature is the hybrid AF. It’s fast and precise, and it has a 14 fps burst shooting mode and RAW image format.

The camera includes NFC, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth for connectivity. These allow for the easy transfer of your images to a smartphone and remote control of the camera.

This camera also records high-quality 4K video . The dedicated microphone jack port allows recording audio with an external microphone. This makes this camera very attractive for vloggers.

Due to its size, the handling experience is very similar to that of a classic DSLR camera . You will not find yourself battling with small buttons.

A welcome feature for travel photography is that the Sony Cyber-Shot RX10 IV is weather-sealed. You can shoot in any conditions without worries.

Best Compact Camera for Travel FAQs

Packing the right gear is a key element of success when traveling abroad. Finding the best compact camera for travel is an important factor, but your camera is only one piece of the puzzle.

Other accessories are also important. And maybe you’re not confident about compact cameras. These Q&As should help you prepare for your next photography trip.

What Are the Best Mirrorless Cameras for Travel?

The Nikon Z50 is our top recommendation for a mirrorless camera for travel. Its compact body fits any travel backpack, and the APS-C sensor produces gorgeous images. The camera has many creative features and delivers lovely 4K video footage.

More experienced travelers might prefer the Canon EOS R8 . It’s one of the most compact and lightweight full-frame cameras around.

Its 24.2 MP resolution might be modest for a full-frame sensor. But the image quality is still exceptional, with a wide dynamic range and low-noise performance in low light.

Mirrorless cameras are an excellent choice for travel photographers. They are lighter and have smaller bodies than DSLR cameras, making them more portable. They have powerful sensors and superior features. A mirrorless is ideal if you want more from a camera.

Our full article has more of the best mirrorless cameras for travel . We also have another article on the best lightweight cameras , all of which make excellent travel cameras.

Which Backpack Is Best for Compact Travel Cameras?

If you’re traveling with a compact camera, we recommend the Wandrd Duo Daypack . It’s a stylish yet unassuming backpack with plenty of storage space and thorough weather sealing.

If you’re traveling with a compact camera as your main shooter and minimal gear, you don’t need a big travel camera backpack if you’re traveling with minimal equipment. 

The Duo Daypack is ideal for the photographer who travels light. It has a protective “pop camera cube” for larger mirrorless cameras or DSLRs. But it also has padded pockets for smaller gear like compact cameras.

Sensational build quality reassures you when you’re traveling in a new place. You know your gear is safe within. And you’re confident the backpack will last the distance.

You can read our full, in-depth review of the Wandrd Duo Daypack here. Or you can see more of the best camera backpacks for travel we recommend .

What Other Camera Accessories Does a Travel Photographer Need?

Packing too much gear can be a problem when going on a photography trip. It’s easy to fill your backpack with every piece of gear you have, just in case. You then have a heavy backpack of camera gear you won’t use.

The key to a successful trip is packing smart. So here are some photography accessories that are genuinely useful when you’re in a far-flung location.

A secure and protective SD card case is a must-have when traveling. When new, exciting visuals surround you, you can get pretty trigger-happy, and memory cards fill up fast.

Take as many SD cards as possible so your storage isn’t limited. But you have to keep them safe in a durable holder.

The Kiorafoto Professional Card Case is the best option. It has a solid outer casing and is completely watertight when closed. This affordable item can be a lifesaver. See more top-quality SD card cases we’ve reviewed .

Another digital storage solution is to take a rugged portable external hard drive. The LaCie Rugged Mini is ideal for travelers. It has storage options from 1 to 5 TB, is water and dust-resistant, and has fast read-write speeds for quick media transfers.

Another handy digital gadget is a portable power bank like Anker’s slim one . If your camera has USB charging, a power bank lets you fill it up whenever and wherever. This allows you to shoot longer without returning to your hotel or hostel.

Some travelers like to travel with a tripod. While tripods might seem big and cumbersome, you can get specialist travel tripods that are portable . The K&F Concept Lightweight Tripod is one of those. And it’s one we recommend if you need extra stability when country hopping.

Mini tripods are another handy option if you want a light pack. They’re popular with travel vloggers and content creators. And they work very well with compact cameras. The Manfrotto Pixi Evo is the best place to start with mini tripods.

Conclusion: Best Compact Cameras for Travel

The best compact camera for travel is lightweight and portable yet delivers top-quality media. Whether you want high-level holiday snaps or exotic video content, there’s a compact camera with your name on it.

The Sony ZV-1 II is the top choice as the best compact camera for travelers. It produces lovely still photos but excels in vlogging features. The 4K video footage is gorgeous. Hardware features like the built-in mic or rotating touchscreen make it an all-in-one camera for content creation.

New: 7 Best cameras for travel

Updated March 2024

Travel can expose you to once-in-a-lifetime sights and experiences, and a good camera can be the perfect way to preserve those memories. We've looked at a range of models that offer great image quality, good autofocus and excellent video, so that you can capture whatever you encounter on your travels. We've also tried to select relatively small cameras so they don't interfere with your trip.

Our selections include relatively compact cameras with fixed lenses, perfect for just documenting what you saw on your trip; they also include Micro Four Thirds and APS-C models that allow smaller camera/lens combinations, if you're looking to travel light. Full-frame cameras open up the potential for even better image quality but the lenses can get pretty big, so it's worth checking how big the total package is, before committing to a large-sensor model.

Our recommendations

Best pocketable travel camera: ricoh gr iii, the classic choice: fujifilm x100vi, truly compact mirrorless: om system om-5, all-round compact capability: sony a6700, the great travel kit: fujifilm x-s20 with 18-55mm f2.8-4.0 ois, the stylish travel companion: nikon zf, portable full-frame: sony a7cr.

24MP APS-C sensor | 28mm equiv. F2.8 lens | Wi-Fi + Bluetooth

What we like:

• Excellent image quality
• Good controls and ergonomics
• Truly pocketable

What we don't:

• Short battery life
• No built-in flash
• Sluggish AF in low light

The Ricoh GR III is the latest in a series of classic compact cameras with a large APS-C sensor and a 28mm equivalent lens. It's not the most flexible camera but it's one of the most pocketable and has built up a dedicated following of photographers who find it a joy to shoot with.

Our only concern, in terms of using the GR III for travel are that some users have found dust can get into the lens. So it's worth trying to find some sort of protective bag to keep it in.

There's also the GR IIIx , a variant with a longer, 40mm equivalent lens on it. This may be a little tight for documenting your travels, but it's historically a popular focal length.

Read our Ricoh GR III review

See the Ricoh GR III studio scene

40MP BSI CMOS APS-C X-Trans sensor | 35mm equiv F2 lens | Hybrid viewfinder

• Excellent build quality
• Subject-detection autofocus
• Now with in-body image stabilization
• Lens not especially fast to focus
• Hard to find in stock

Like the Fujifilm X100V before it, the Fujifilm X100VI is a classically styled fixed lens camera with a 35mm equivalent F2 lens. But being in active production following its 2024 launch, the X100VI is somewhat easier to buy than its constantly out-of-stock forebear.

Updated with in-body image stabilization rated at up to 6EV of correction and a 40MP BSI CMOS APS-C X-Trans sensor, the X100VI is a significant upgrade over its predecessor despite looking virtually identical. And those improvements in part explain the X100VI's $200 increase in list price to $1,600.

Like its older brother, the X100VI isn't the smallest or most inconspicuous camera, but its fixed focal length means you develop an 'eye' for the photos it'll take, essentially making it a better quality, more engaging alternative to snapping away with your phone.

The addition of subject-detection autofocus has given the X100VI the ability to recognize animals, birds, automobiles, motorcycles and bikes, airplanes, and trains though human (face/eye) detection is a separate mode. However, the lens the X100VI shares with the X100V is not the fastest to autofocus, prioritizing sharpness over speed.

The X100VI brings a level of polish you would expect from a sixth iteration of a camera. Fujifilm has done a great job keeping the X100-series up to date without messing with the formula that's made it so popular. No surprise, this is the best X100 yet.

Unfortunately, despite ramped-up production, demand for the X100VI seems to have outstripped supply with the camera already on backorder at virtually all dealers. With any luck, however, its release will depress the over-inflated sale price of previous generation X100V cameras, which are still quite capable if you can find them for prices befitting used gear.

Read our Fujifilm X100VI review

20MP Four Thirds CMOS sensor | 4K/30p video | In-body stabilization rated to 6.5EV (7.5 with some lenses)

• Attractive JPEG output
• Selection of clever photo features
• Excellent image stabilization
• IP53 rating supports claims of weather sealing
• AF tracking is disappointing
• Image quality is behind larger sensor cameras

The OM System OM-5 is a compact interchangeable lens camera with a 20MP Four Thirds sensor in a compact body with plenty of external control.

That relatively small sensor means it can remain fairly small, even with a lens attached, and the Micro Four Thirds lens system provides extensive options in that regard, from compact zooms to small prime lenses.

Read our OM System OM-5 review

See the OM System OM-5 studio scene

26MP BSI CMOS sensor | 4K/60p video capture | Fully articulating screen

• Front and rear command dials
• Excellent AF in stills and video
• 4K/120p capture (with crop)
• No AF joystick
• JPEG sharpening can be aggressive

The Sony a6700 is built around a 26MP APS-C-sized sensor. Its excellent autofocus performance means it excels at both stills and video capture. There's a good choice of relatively compact lenses available, too. We'd suggest avoiding the really small 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 though: it's not the lens to get the most out of this camera.

Fast, dependable autofocus with a selection of subject recognition modes means the a6700 will help maximize your chances of capturing the unexpected moments on a trip.

Read our full Sony a6700 review

See the Sony a6700 studio scene

26MP X-Trans APS-C sensor | Up to 6.2K/30P 10-bit video | In-body image stablization

• Excellent still and video quality
• Long battery life
• Comfortable, simple ergonomics
• AF tracking still lags behind peers
• Small electronic viewfinder
• Micro HDMI instead of full-size

Fujifilm's X-S20 is also worth considering. Like the a6700, it's built around a 26MP BSI CMOS sensor and is strong at both stills and video. Its autofocus isn't as simple and powerful as the Sony's, but its JPEG color modes produce really attractive results, and there's a wide choice of lenses including compact prime and the well-priced, supremely useful 18-55mm F2.8-4.0 OIS, which is a great travel option.

Read our Fujifilm X-S20 initial review

See the Fujifilm X-S20 studio scene

24MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor | Full-width 4K/30 video, cropped 4K/60 | Stabilization rated to 8EV

• Distinctive design with direct controls
• Effective subject recognition
• Strong stills and video features
• Weight and minimal grip can become uncomfortable
• Slow MicroSD second slot
• Few custom buttons

The Nikon Zf is a classically styled full-frame camera built around a 24MP full-frame sensor that's used by many of its peers. The angular 80s-style body isn't the most comfortable to hold in your hand for extended periods, but the lack of stick-out grip makes it smaller than many of its rivals, making it a tempting travel companion.

At least in its all-black form, there's a chance of it being mistaken for a film camera, which may help avoid the wrong kind of attention, when you're out and about in an unfamiliar setting.

Read our initial review of the Nikon Zf

61MP BSI CMOS sensor | 4K/60p video with 10-bit color | Dedicated ‘AI’ processor for AF system

• Big camera features in a small body
• Outstanding AF performance
• Auto Framing video mode
• Small, low-res viewfinder
• No joystick control
• No fully mechanical shutter

The Sony a7CR is a relatively compact full-frame camera with an image-stabilized 61MP CMOS sensor. You sacrifice the convenience of an AF joystick and get a pretty small and basic viewfinder to keep the camera's size down, but there's little else that delivers this much image quality in such a compact package.

You'll need to pick your lenses carefully to keep the camera portable but the a7CR's autofocus means it can respond rapidly to just about anything you encounter on your travels.

Read our Sony a7CR initial review

Why you should trust us

This buying guide is based on cameras used and tested by DPReview's editorial team. We don't select a camera until we've used it enough to be confident in recommending it, usually after our extensive review process. The selections are purely a reflection of which cameras we believe to be best: there are no financial incentives for us to select one model or brand over another.

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Best Travel Camera 2020: The 12 best holiday cameras you can buy

Best Travel Camera: we test and compare the latest travel cameras from Canon, Panasonic, Sony, DJI, GoPro and more.

One of the best times to invest in a new camera is just before you head off on a big trip abroad. 

Whether you’re looking for a pocketable smartphone upgrade or a way to upgrade your travel photography, there are lots of cameras that are built specifically for life on the road.

Right now, the best advanced travel camera you can buy is the Fujifilm X-T30 . If you’re looking for a compact travel zoom for under £400, though, then the Canon Powershot SX740 HS (or perhaps even its predecessor, the SX730 HS) is your best bet.

We test for colour, since different sensor and camera image processors can interpret colour differently, as well as shifting at different ISO sensitivities. We then get down to the nitty-gritty of resolution, with our lab tests showing us exactly how much detail each camera’s sensor can resolve.

Even though cameras can share identical pixel counts, some perform better than others. Then we look at image noise, since different cameras can produce cleaner images at higher ISOs than others.

Finally, we get out and shoot with every camera in real-world conditions, just as you will, to find out how it will perform in day-to-day use. All results are analysed by the very best industry software, making our reviews the most authoritative of any you’ll read.

1. Fujifilm X-T30

Compact form and great lenses make this a brilliant travel camera

• Read our Fujifilm X-T30 review

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2. Canon Powershot SX740 HS

If it’s zoom you need, it’s hard to look beyond this all-seeing travel cam

• 40x optical zoom
• Largely accurate autofocus
• Good photo quality in daytime
• Shoots 4K video at 30fps
• Small sensor restricts low light performance
• No option to shoot in Raw
• Screen isn’t touch-sensitive

Smartphones have caught up with compact cameras in lots of ways, but one thing they can’t offer is 40x optical zoom – and that’s what makes the Canon SX740 such a fine travel camera.

Not that it’s just a basic, pocket-friendly camera with a big zoom clamped on the front. The SX740 is packed with lots of handy features, including five-axis image stabilisation, 4K video recording and the ability to fire off stills at 10fps.

Its performance largely matches this features list too, with generally speedy autofocus and vibrant stills, at least when you’re shooting in good light. The SX740’s one major downside is that its 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor struggles a little in lower light, with a slight of lack of detail and a little smudginess in places.

Unless you’re willing to splash out a little more on a compact with a one-inch sensor, like the Panasonic TZ200 or Sony RX100 VI below, that’s to be expected of a compact camera at this level, and the SX740 otherwise does more than enough to justify its price tag and its status as one of the most versatile travel compacts you can buy.

• Read our Canon Powershot SX740 HS review

3. Panasonic Lumix TZ200

A fine, premium all-rounder for your holiday carry-on

• Stellar zoom range
• Respectable image quality
• Very usable electronic viewfinder
• Good grip in the hand
• Effective image stabilisation
• Average JPEG quality
• Rear LCD doesn’t tilt
• Controls don’t suit viewfinder shooting
• Slow maximum-aperture zoom is soft at telephoto

Panasonic essentially invented the ‘big zoom, small body’ travel camera – and the TZ200 takes things to another level. Following 2016’s game-changing TZ100, this 2018 update adds two major improvements: a much better electronic viewfinder and a 15x, 24-360mm equivalent zoom.

That lens is the headline feature. It’s longer than anything else you’ll find on a compact with a 1-inch sensor, providing fantastic flexibility when you’re shooting on the road. The compromise is a lower maximum aperture, down to f/3.3-6.4. Combined with a minimum aperture at all focal lengths of f/8, you get limited versatility at the far ranges of the zoom. Images are less detailed at the long end, too, and in low light you’ll have to boost ISO sooner.

Still, optical image stabilisation does well to tackle blur, and the 20.1-megapixel sensor delivers best-in-class image quality across almost all shooting conditions. The new viewfinder helps, too: it’s larger than before, with a higher 2.33m-dot resolution, and the LCD’s refresh rate makes flicker near-invisible. As a result, it’s a pleasure to shoot with.

In the hand, the TZ200 is almost identical to the TZ100, but for extra rubber on the grip, which makes it far less slippery than its predecessor. That said, the layout and small size of certain buttons is unhelpful – particularly when using the viewfinder – while the zoom control can be quite jumpy.

A true all-rounder, Panasonic’s small-aperture superzoom isn’t flawless, then, but for sheer versatility it’s hard to beat. Equipped with a raft of shooting modes and tools – including an intervalometer for time-lapse shooting and new Bluetooth functionality for remote smartphone control – there’s little the TZ200 can’t do. Add in 4K video at 30fps and respectable battery performance and you’ve got a pocket-friendly powerhouse.

• Read our Panasonic Lumix TZ200 review

4. Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VI

One of the priciest compacts around, but also one of the best

• Small and lightweight
• Tilting screen
• Useful electronic viewfinder
• Large sensor & fast frame rate
• 4K video recording
• Very expensive
• Buttons are fiddly

Sony’s latest RX100 model emerged in July 2018, and (unsurprisingly), the Sony RX100 VI is the best one yet. For the first time ever, you’ve got a fairly long zoom, with 24-200mm (8x optical) on offer – putting it close to the TZ200.

Something has to be sacrificed to get that extra zoom length though, and in this case it’s at the expense of super wide aperture. The previous model (RX100 V) offered f/1.8-f/2.8, but the Mark VI narrows that down to f/2.8-4.5. Now, if we’re talking about your average travel shot, the zoom is more important, but if you find yourself often shooting in dark situations, you might miss that wider opening.

As always, this is by no means a cheap camera. It’s not even in the “reasonable” category to be honest – it’ll set you back £1200. But you do get an astonishing amount of tech in a teeny tiny body, and that’s arguably worth paying for.

Body wise, buttons are few but useful – if a little on the small side – and for the first time ever, Sony has put touch-sensitivity on the RX100’s screen.It’s still not perfect, but at least you can give a little tap to set the AF point, which is always handy.

As with the previous generation of the camera, the autofocus is extremely fast and it also offers ridiculously high-speed continuous shooting at 24fps. That makes it useful for capturing fast moving subjects, which on your travels could include all sorts of exciting things.

The Sony sensor delivers lovely vibrant images, with bags of detail and a good degree of exposure control. If it’s prohibitively expensive, take a look at older RX100 models to save a bit of cash – particularly if you crave the wider aperture options.

• Read our Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VI review

5. Panasonic Lumix LX100 II

Going on a city break? This is one of the best street photography snappers around

• Large, Four Thirds sensor
• Small and light
• Tactile controls
• No tilting screen
• Fairly small upgrade from predecessor

If you’re looking for a top-notch camera to take on your travels, that doesn’t see too much of a compromise in image quality – the LX100 II is an excellent choice.

Thanks to its Four Thirds sensor, you’re getting exactly the same imaging power that you would in one of Panasonic’s compact system cameras, but you can fit it in your jacket pocket (or even your jeans if wear fairly loose fitting ones).

The LX100 II came to the market some four years after the original, but despite having to wait that long, the upgrades are a little bit incremental. There’s a better sensor, and an improved EVF, plus the screen is now touch-sensitive.

A big disappointment is not to have a tilting screen, which can be useful for composing from awkward angles, but is less likely to be bothersome to somebody using it primarily as holiday camera. Having an EVF to switch to when bright sun prohibits the use of the screen is also handy too.

• Read our Panasonic Lumix LX100 II review

6. Sony A6400

A small, powerful all-rounder that’ll take your travel snaps to the next level

Superb autofocus Good range of lenses Front-facing screen handy for vlogging Impressive dynamic range

No in-built image stabilisation Fiddly handling

If you’re looking for a mid-range mirrorless camera to take on your travels, there’s very little to choose between the excellent Sony A6400 and Fujifilm X-T30 (see above). But if you like shooting videos to camera or want the best autofocus in the business, then the Sony A6400 might just be your perfect holiday ally.

Can’t quite stretch your budget to afford the A6400? There is definitely still a case for considering the Sony A6000, which is available at half the price. But while that older A-series model is good value, it can’t match the A6400’s autofocus or video performance.

Like the Fujifilm X-T30, the A6400 is a fantastic all-rounder thanks to its class-leading autofocus (which now includes Animal Eye AF for pet or safari snapping) and burst shooting speeds, which reach an impressive 11fps with the mechanical shutter.

The only real downside to the A6400 is its occasionally awkward handling, with some fiddly buttons and an under-cooked touchscreen experience. And the fact that the Fujifilm X-T30 is the slightly more impressive all-rounder.

But if you prefer its more modern design and its 180-degree flipping screen, then the Sony A6400 is a great choice for both travel and general day-to-day photography.

• Read our Sony A6400 review

7. DJI Osmo Pocket

For cinematic holiday videos, this gimbal-stabilised pocket camera is hard to beat

• Shoots smooth, gimbal-stabilised video
• Incredibly small
• Auto-tracks subjects and faces
• App gives you lots of manual controls
• Average audio quality
• Needs accessories to unlock its full potential
• Not waterproof without an optional case

If you’re looking to mostly shoot videos, timelapses and clips to camera on your travels, then it’s hard to beat DJI’s unique Pocket camera.

It’s the world’s smallest 4K camera with a three-axis gimbal, which means it shoots super-smooth video in all lighting conditions (even gloomy lighting, which can trouble cameras that mostly rely on electronic stabilisation).

On its own, the DJI Osmo Pocket makes a great walkaround travel camera for video and 12-megapixel stills, but plug your Android or iPhone smartphone into its side and you get loads more effects like automatic subject tracking and motion timelapses.

The Pocket’s 1/2.3in sensor (in the ballpark of most compacts and flagship smartphones) means it won’t trouble premium compacts like the Sony RX100 VI or Panasonic TZ200 for stills quality, but it produces the best video quality from a camera of this size. Which is to say, one that’s about the size of a Mars bar.

The combination of its gimbal and app mean that even novices can shoot cinematic panning shots, while those with more experience will be happy to find full manual controls and histograms in the settings.

You might need to add one or two of the Pocket’s optional accessories, such as the 3.5mm microphone adaptor, to unlock its full potential, but on its own it’s still a fantastic holiday companion and a nice upgrade from your smartphone’s  video capabilities.

• Read our DJI Osmo Pocket review

8. Panasonic G90

A fine travel camera with weatherproofing and built-in stabilisation

• Weatherproof design
• Versatile screen is good for vlogging
• Impressive photo and video quality
• Unlimited 4K video recording
• Larger than its Sony and Fujifilm rivals
• Smaller sensor than similarly priced cameras

Looking for an interchangeable lens travel camera with both weatherproofing and in-built image stabilisation? The Panasonic G90 is the best mid-range option with those features right now. Its 20.3-megapixel Four Thirds sensor is smaller than the APS-C chips in the Sony A6400 and Fujifilm X-T30, and it is a bulkier camera overall. But that does mean it has room for that built-in IS, which you won’t find in either of its rivals.

The Panasonic G90’s autofocus isn’t quite as sharp as those two cameras, but it is fast to get a lock in most situations, including when tracking moving subjects. Also pretty rapid is its burst shooting speed, which hits 9fps at full resolution and 30fps in 4K Photo mode resolution (which is about eight megapixels).

In other words, it’s a fine all-rounder for pretty much any situation, except challenging low light scenes, where its smaller sensor is pushed to the limits (even if built-in IS helps you preserve image quality). Still, vloggers will really appreciate its side-flipping screen, while the G90’s 4K video quality is really strong and aided by the bonus of unlimited 4K video recording.

Right now, there’s an argument that the larger and older Panasonic G9 actually offers better value, thanks to its superior video recording and two card slots. But for hobbyists and travellers, the G90 is the sweet spot.

9. Panasonic Lumix GX800

One of the best value compact system cameras you can buy

• Small and easy to use
• Capable of 4K Video and 4K Photo
• Cheapest Panasonic CSC around
• No viewfinder

Panasonic’s cheapest compact system camera might be simpler than its GX8 and GX80 siblings, but it’s unbeatable as an entry-level travel camera.

Closer in size to a premium compact, it’s the manufacturer’s smallest CSC and, with the 12-32mm kit lens fully retracted, it will happily slip into a large pocket. Despite that, it benefits from a 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor, which does without an optical low-pass filter in favour of greater detail in shots.

Although it sits at the bottom of the Panasonic lineup, you get two killer features: 4K Photo, which lets you pull stills out of 4K video shot at 30fps, and Post Focus. The former is useful for action photography, while the latter’s option to retrospectively change the point of focus is great if you’re into macro.

You won’t find too many controls on the body, which speaks of the model’s beginner status, but what’s there is grouped well and makes for easy one-handed shooting. You’ll need to look elsewhere if you want a viewfinder, though. However, in its place is a touch-sensitive, flip-up LCD that’s responsive and intuitive, making it an ideal option for those stepping up from smartphones.

Fitted with the 12-32mm kit lens, the camera starts up quickly and is largely fast and accurate. Lock-on can be a challenge in low light, but it’s otherwise reliable and tracking is reasonable, provided you’re following something predictable. Overall image quality is excellent, with warm colours and rich detail. The highest ISO levels are best avoided, but in most conditions you’ll get well-balanced results – and it’s a similar story with 4K footage.

If you’re looking for budget performance that’s a step up from your smartphone or compact, the GX800 is a very capable option. And if that viewfinder is a deal-breaker, Panasonic’s GX80 isn’t too much more expensive.

• Read our Panasonic Lumix GX800 review

10. Canon G1X Mark III

This pro-friendly compact is ideal for anyone looking for a mini version of their DSLR

• Class-leading image quality
• Excellent control layout
• Robust construction
• Lens offers little creativity
• Relatively poor battery life
• No 4K video recording

Styled like a mini-DSLR, the G1X Mark III is the ideal travel camera for those who want a more portable version of their full-size camera. With its pro-friendly controls and built-in electronic viewfinder, it’s a premium zoom camera for enthusiasts rather than beginners.

A 24-megapixel APS-C sensor is hidden in its compact shell, delivering image quality to match some DSLRs, while Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology means on-chip phase detection for rapid and accurate autofocus. Canon’s Digic 7 processor is there, too, serving up processing tricks that tackle difficult lighting conditions with aplomb.

There are limitations, though. At £1149, you’re paying a serious premium for that compact performance, while the built-in 24-72mm equivalent lens isn’t perfect, either. The range is usable enough, but its f/2.8-5.6 maximum aperture is relatively limited compared to contemporaries, restricting background blur at the business end of the zoom.

Battery is also a blight on all-day shooting, with stamina that’s good for just 200 shots on a single charge, while certain controls are laid out in an awkward way.

All of that being said, the G1X has some real highlights. One of them is the electronic viewfinder, which sits centrally above the fantastic flip-out touchscreen. A 2.36m-dot OLED unit, it’s bright, accurate and clear, and feels like the best way to shoot with the Mark III.

Canon has also made it very easy to connect the G1X to other devices. Besides Dynamic NFC and Wi-Fi, always-on Bluetooth is a real stand-out feature, letting you use your phone as a wireless remote and to fire up the Wi-Fi for advanced remote shooting.

Flaws and all, this is a remarkable camera. Squeezing an APS-C sensor and zoom lens into such a small body is no mean feat, and paired with quick autofocus and class-leading image quality, it’s up there with the best.

• Read our Canon G1X Mark III review

11. GoPro Hero 7 Black

Still the ideal rugged, waterproof camera for adventure holidays

• Fantastic image stabilisation
• Waterproof without a case
• Livestreaming available
• Great video, audio and stills quality
• Can get hot recording 4K
• Occasionally sluggish
• Relatively expensive

If it doesn’t count as a holiday if it didn’t include some kind of action or adventure element, then you may want to pick up a camera to document all of your travels with.

GoPro has become the go-to name for action cameras, and its latest incarnation, the GoPro Hero 7 , shows us exactly why the company dominates the market so heavily.

Its headline features include 4K/60fps video with electronic images stabilisation, waterproofing without need for a case, plus the ability to livestream. We’re not talking about a massive overhaul from the GoPro Hero 6, but pricing is sensible enough to tempt you towards the newer model.

• Read our GoPro Hero 7 Black review

12. Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV

A fantastic bridge camera all-rounder with DSLR-beating speed

• Huge zoom range
• Fast, accurate autofocus
• Excellent image quality
• Screen only tilts up or down
• Lacks some expected features
• Bluetooth used for geo-tagging only

Anything that promises all-in-one performance has a lot to prove, but the original RX10 showed that adding a larger sensor to a bridge camera could achieve peerless versatility. Five years later, its fourth generation raised the bar to staggering heights.

Sony has overhauled the internals, adding a 20.1-megapixel stacked CMOS sensor and Bionz X processor. In consequence, it’s blisteringly fast – to a degree that eclipses most DSLRs. It will shoot at 24fps with continuous autofocus, while its silent electronic shutter can deliver speeds of 1/32,000sec. That chip even has enough power to buffer 110 RAW files.

What’s more, there’s on-chip phase detection which, combined with 315 focus points, allows the camera to group points around a moving subject for supreme accuracy.

The RX10 IV’s lens has an equivalent range of 24-600mm, offering incredible versatility without switching lenses. While the maximum aperture is f.2.4-4, things do change quickly as you zoom, with f/4 your lot beyond 100mm. Still, with the ability to focus just 3cm from the front element at wide angle, it’s a very flexible setup.

Enthusiasts might rightly bemoan the lack of several features, including in-camera RAW conversion, an intervalometer and a greater variety of aspect ratios, while Bluetooth LE is limited to geo-tagging only – but the breadth of the RX10 IV’s shooting capabilities is hard to fault.

Video options are similarly comprehensive, with 4K at 25fps, along with manual exposure control, the option to re-focus while recording, and the ability to pull 8-megapixel stills from 4K footage. There’s even a limited but impressive High Frame Rate mode that can capture at up to 1000fps.

In short, the RX10 IV really is an all-in-one answer to the travel camera conundrum. It will tackle almost any situation and subject and, short of the usual 1-inch sensor noise at higher ISOs, performance is almost flawless.

• Read our Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV review

Best travel cameras buying guide – six things to look out for

1) Viewfinders

Even the best screens can be hard to see in direct sunlight. If you’re heading somewhere sunny, it’s worth considering a camera with a viewfinder. Less common on budget models, viewfinders are protected from the light, so offer an unhindered shooting experience in which the image and framing can be seen clearly.

DSLR cameras often carry optical viewfinders, which give the eye an unaltered, natural image, while many premium compacts and CSCs use electronic viewfinders. These relay a bright, clear preview to a small, high-resolution display. Better EVFs can give a truer impression of what the camera will capture and are very useful at night, but less-effective variants can suffer from flickering and lag.

2) Weather-proofing

Unless you’re a fair-weather traveller, it makes sense to consider weather-proofing when buying a camera. Fully rugged cameras are designed to withstand knocks, drops and even immersion in water for extended periods, so you’ll want one of these if you’re going on an adventure holiday.

Most standard cameras are less extreme, but many offer a degree of weather protection. Some of the premium compacts in this list are dust- and drip-proof, which should give you peace of mind when shooting in the rain, while it’s also possible to find weather-sealed DSLRs that rely on rubber housings and seals to keep moisture out – although lenses also have to be weather-sealed for full protection.

3) Connectivity

Many cameras in this list ship with Wi-Fi built in. Use it to connect wirelessly to your smartphone or tablet and you’ll be able to transfer your latest holiday shots across for editing and sharing on the go, without a PC or cable in sight.

Certain models also offer NFC, which similarly permits contactless file transfers to NFC-enabled phones. Bluetooth, on the other hand, is generally used for controlling your camera from your phone, but not all of our picks implement it in the same way. Choose a model with a partner app and you’ll likely be able to trigger the shutter from afar for the perfect postcard selfie.

4) Dimensions vs battery life

Size is everything when it comes to travel cameras, and not all are created equal. If you’re travelling light and rucksack space is at a premium, a compact is your best bet, since these tend to be smaller and lighter, yet still versatile enough for most shooting conditions. DSLRs, on the other hand, are weightier and any extra lenses will add bulk to your bag – although image quality is the big selling point.

Compact system cameras sit somewhere in the middle, offering decent performance and the option of multiple lenses, with less heft than DSLR equipment. The flip-side is that bigger cameras tend to offer better battery life. Compacts frequently sacrifice longevity to achieve their diminutive proportions, so you’ll usually need a spare battery for all-day shooting.

5) Image stabilisation

Travel photography often involves shooting on the move, which is where image stabilisation (or IS) comes in handy. This technology reduces the effect of hand-shake or camera movement on photos.

Different manufacturers give it different names but there are essentially two types: sensor-shift, where the sensor moves to compensate for shake; and lens-shift, where the lens adjusts instead. Whichever system is used, the result is sharper shots even when the camera isn’t kept still. This is also a boon when you’re shooting at slower shutter speeds or long zoom lengths, both of which would otherwise magnify any movements.

6) 4K video

While most cameras are capable of shooting video in 720p or 1080p, only some can do so in 4K. Whether you need the added resolution depends on how you watch your videos. It’s worth bearing in mind that 4K footage takes up a lot more storage space than HD, too.

If you want to shoot video as you travel, there are several choices in this list that can deliver both high-quality stills and smooth 4K footage at 30fps. Some also give you the option of picking out individual video frames as still shots, which is useful for capturing fast action.

Mark was previously acting editor of Stuff.tv, as well as features editor and reviews editor on Stuff magazine. He has contributed to a variety of publications, including The Sunday Times, The Daily T…

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Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

The Best Travel Camera: Compact, DSLR, Mirrorless & Phone!

Last updated: April 7, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 167 Comments

I’m a professional travel photographer, and one of the most popular questions I’m asked by readers and students on my travel photography course is what the best travel camera is.

With that in mind, I wanted to put together a definitive (and regularly updated) guide to the best travel camera out there.

This guide covers everything you need to know to help you choose the best camera for travel, based on your needs and budget, as well as a guide to all my favourite cameras.

This is a detailed post, in which I’m going to cover my top picks for the best camera across a range of categories, including smartphones, compact cameras, mirrorless cameras and DSLR cameras, to name just some of the options.

These travel camera picks will suit a wide range of budgets, needs, and expertise levels. Our picks are ordered in approximate order of budget, from lower budget models through to higher end models.

I’m also going to go through in detail what you need to look for when buying a camera for travelling, and why each specification is important, so you can make the best choice for you.

Remember, the best camera for travel is going to be very dependent on your needs and situation, but after reading this post you should be able to pick the right camera for you – even if it’s not one we suggest!

I also have a guide to the best cameras for hiking and backpacking which contains some different options specific to those requirements, as well as a guide to the best action cameras .

This guide will also work if you are looking to buy a camera for someone else, and I recommend taking a look at our photography gift guide for more ideas of what to buy a photographer too.

Now, before we dive into individual travel camera recommendations, let’s get started by looking at what you need to think about when picking a camera for travel.

I think this is essential reading, as understanding what you are looking for when buying a camera will help you make a truly informed decision.

What To Consider When Picking A Travel Camera

Budget – how much do you have to spend on a travel camera.

This is an important one. Cameras vary wildly in price, from a couple of hundred dollars up to thousands of dollars. So you definitely need to think about how much you want to spend.

Also, this is a travel camera. Whilst you want to get the best shots, travel can expose you to risks, from loss to theft. Obviously, these are things that can be mitigated against with insurance, but it’s something to bear in mind when making an investment – the more pricey the camera, the higher the insurance premium.

Finally, don’t forget that the camera is only a part of the puzzle. You will also need things like memory cards, spare batteries, lenses – as well as possibly a tripod and filters. Your needs will vary, but don’t forget to include them in your overall budget – I’ve written a post on travel photography accessories to give you some pointers, as well as a guide to picking the best lens for travel photography .

Weight – How much are you willing to carry around?

This is a really important question. If you’re the kind of person who likes to travel light, then you’re not going to want a bulky DSLR. Having the best travel camera that sits in your hotel room while you’re out having fun isn’t going to be much use.

Even a mirrorless system might be too much for you if you want something that will truly fit in your pocket or purse, and your best bet is probably a smartphone or compact camera.

On the other hand, if image quality and low-light performance are more important to you than weight, and you’re happy carrying spare lenses, filters, and other accessories, then you’ll likely be looking at a mirrorless or DSLR system.

Remember, as a general rule of thumb, the bigger the camera, the more room it has for a larger sensor. A larger sensor means the camera can capture more light, which means you’ll get sharper, cleaner images even when shooting in darker situations.

Use – What are you going to be taking pictures of?

The type of photography you’re going to be doing makes a big different to the type of travel camera you will be buying. If your main goal is to take nice travel photos for your albums, social media, and to post to friends and family online, then any of the camera types will likely do the job.

However, if you’re going to be doing a lot of action photography, or need the camera to be fully waterproof, then something like a GoPro is going to be the best option.

If you like astrophotography, you’re going to need a camera with a big sensor to let in plenty of light and you might want to invest in a DSLR. Conversely, if you just want a general purpose camera with plenty of flexibility for a variety of travel scenes, from food to landscapes to people, then something like a mirrorless system will most likely be best, offering the best performance for the weight.

Extra features to look for in a Travel Camera

A lot of cameras these days come with extra features that you may or may not care about. I’m talking about touchscreen interfaces, built-in GPS, WiFi, weather resistance, pivoting screens, and so on.

The main features you should be looking at in terms of actual image quality are the sensor size, aperture range, level of manual control, and, for cameras without an interchangeable lens, the optical zoom. Beyond that, which features you are interested in depend on your needs.

For example, you may also want to take videos with your camera. Some cameras are much better at video than others – notably Panasonic’s range of Lumix cameras are known for their video performance.

Personally, I love having a camera with GPS and WiFi capabilities so I can easily remember where my shots were taken, plus I can remote control my camera from my smartphone. On the other hand, a touchable, pivoting screen isn’t a deal breaker for me.

What works for me might not work for you though, so think about which features are important to you when making a purchasing decision. The best camera for travel photography definitely varies from person to person, but hopefully the information in this post will help you make the right decision.

Photography Terminology to Know When Buying a Camera for Travel

Like any subject, photography brings with it a raft of terminology – some of it is important to know about, other things are manufacturer buzzwords that don’t really make any difference to your photography. Here are the important terms to look for when buying a camera for travel, and what they mean.

Aperture. The aperture is the hole in the lens that lets light in, and is one side of the exposure triangle . Aperture is measured in numbers, with an “f” preceding the number, for example, f/1.8, f/2.2. The smaller the number after the “f”, the bigger the hole, and the more light that gets in. Look for smaller numbers, which will let you get better pictures even when there is less light available, and also allow you to better control depth of field .

Optical zoom. This represents the difference between the smallest and largest magnification that the camera’s lens can achieve. So a camera with a 10x optical zoom can make objects seem 10x bigger in the image compared to when the camera is zoomed out.

Digital zoom. A totally pointless feature that some manufacturers add to their cameras. It’s basically a software zoom – the same effect you get if you zoom in on your PC or smartphone when you have an image. Avoid using it.

Focal length. Focal length is the proper photography term for optical zoom, and is a standard across lenses and manufactures. Optical zoom is an easy to understand number that you will find in point and shoot cameras. Focal length, measured in mm, is the number you will find on cameras with interchangeable lenses. The bigger the focal length, the more magnification the lens offers.

EVF. An electronic viewfinder. This means that the camera has a viewfinder, but rather than being a glass based version that shows the scene in front of you as your eye sees it, instead there’s a small electronic screen which shows what the camera sensor is seeing – the same as the display on the back of the camera. You generally only find these on high end mirrorless cameras.

Megapixels. Megapixels just refers to the number of pixels the camera’s sensor has. Mega means million. So 12 megapixels is 12 million pixels, and would be an image 4000 pixels wide and 3000 pixels high. 4000 * 3000 = 12 million.

Thankfully, manufacturers are nearly over the megapixel war, which is a good thing, because as long as you have over about 12 megapixels, you’re good to go. In some cases, such as smartphones, less megapixels is actually better, as you’ll probably get better low-light performance as each pixel on the sensor might be bigger. But yes, unless you’re planning on printing out your images on billboard sized canvases, you can essentially ignore the megapixel marketing.

OIS / EIS. These are image stabilisation technologies, either Optical Image Stabilisation (OIS) or Electronic Image Stabilisation (EIS). OIS is found in a number of camera and lens systems, and a small number of smartphones, and is a mechanical system that compensates for small movements of the camera system, such as your hand. EIS is generally only found in smartphones, and is a software solution for motion compensation. OIS generally achieves better results.

Sensor size. The size of the sensor inside a camera is one of the most important specifications to be aware of. The bigger the sensor, the more light it can capture, and so the better it will perform in conditions where there is less light.

Sensor sizes range from tiny, such as those found in smartphones, and generally increase in size as the size of the camera increases. Here’s a diagram to show different sensor sizes, and you can read more about different formats here .

Do be aware that manufactures can be a bit sneaky when it comes to describing sensor sizes, particularly in compact cameras. They might for example, talk about having a “1-inch” sensor.

This refers to the type of sensor, rather than it’s physical size. So whilst a 1/2.3 inch sensor is smaller than a 1-inch sensor, neither sensor is actually close to 1/2.3 inch or 1 inch. See more on how physical sensor sizes map to actual sensor sizes here .

RAW. RAW is a file format that more advanced cameras use, allowing you to save the unmodified image data that the camera has captured, rather than the edited JPG version.

This gives you much greater control over the final look of your images, with the downside that file sizes are much bigger, and you have to edit them on your computer in an image editing program before you can use them anywhere.

Many cameras give you the option to shoot in RAW, JPEG/JPG, or to shoot in both. We recommend shooting in both even if you plan only to use the JPG version for now – in the future as your photography skills develop, you’ll be pleased to have the option to go back and edit the original RAW files. You can find out more about RAW in my guide to RAW in photography .

If you are interested in learning more about photography and understanding in detail all the terms above and how they affect your shots, check out my travel photography course , which has all the photography answers you need.

The Best Travel Camera

I’ve divided this list into the different types of camera for travel, with some information on what to look for in each category. I will keep this post updated with the latest travel camera options as they are released. You can see the last date of update at the top of the post.

Each section has a series of the best travel camera recommendations ordered approximately by price, from lowest to highest. Note that prices change and sales occur, which is why we link you to the relevant pages on Amazon and other camera retailers for up to date pricing information.

This should give you everything you need to know to help you make a decision on which would be the best travel camera for you to buy, based on your budget, usage scenario and luggage space.

Best Smartphones for Photography

Why pick a smartphone for travel photography.

If you care about portability, ease of use, and not having to carry another device around with you, then my advice is to get a smartphone with a decent camera, and just use that.

A smartphone can certainly make for a good travel camera, and the latest smartphones take excellent photos in a wide variety of situations.

They also have more features than your average small travel camera – you can share the images directly from the smartphone to your favourite social media platforms, plus have them automatically back up to the cloud as you go using something like the Google Photos app.

In addition, since a smartphone is a device that nearly all of us will be travelling with anyway, choosing one which takes good photos is a cost-effective way of buying a camera.

The main disadvantages are the lack of lens options, reduced manual controls, and generally poor performance in low-light due to the small sensor. But if you want something you’re always going to have on you, a smartphone is hard to beat.

Finally, I’d also add that it’s worth picking a smartphone with a good camera even if you plan on buying a standalone camera. It will serve as a good backup, and you are likely to always have it on you.

What to Look for When Buying a Smartphone for Travel Photography

Manufacturers are fairly inventive when it comes to squeezing tech into tiny smartphone bodies, but obviously there’s a limit to what can be achieved in such a small form factor.

Features to look out for include a wide aperture, which will let more light in, and let you capture shots in low light conditions. Another good feature is an optical zoom, which will let you capture images of further away subjects. This is usually achieved either with a clever nifty periscope zoom, or through the use of multiple cameras as different focal lengths.

Some smartphone manufacturers talk about having bigger pixel sizes. This relates to the physical size of the pixels on the sensor, a number measured in µm, or micrometers. Larger pixel sizes are good as they are more light sensitive and help low light performance.

Speaking of pixels, be wary of high megapixel numbers. In my opinion, anything above 16MP is a warning sign that the manufacturer is trying to win you over with high numbers – you really want less megapixels, as each pixel can then be bigger to capture more light.

Other features to look out for are some form of stabilisation, either optical or electronic, which will let you get photos in lower light and compensate for your hand movement. Better smartphones will have more manual controls to give you more options for your photos. There are different types of focusing system, but I’ve never found a lot of variation between them. Waterproofing can be a benefit, meaning you can get photos in the rain or at the beach.

Also if you plan to travel internationally with your phone a lot, try to choose an unlocked phone so you can put a foreign SIM card in, and that works on multiple frequencies so you still get 3G, LTE/4G and 5G (for more recent phones). That means you can still easily use it to call, text, and get online when travelling internationally. Here’s an excellent resource for finding out which phones work on which networks in which countries.

The Best Smartphone for Travel Photography

Here are five suggestions for current phones which I think are some of the best smartphones for travel photography and should definitely at least get you started in your search. Prices are for the unlocked version of the phones, you might be able to get a better deal through a carrier on a contract.

1. Google Pixel 8

Launched in late 2023, the Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro offer a combination of reasonable price and excellent camera performance. They can take great pictures in the majority of lighting situations, including in low light, when it switches into a low light mode.

Most users will likely be happy with the Pixel 8 version. This comes with a 50MP wide angle camera (which outputs 12.5MP images) and a 12MP ultrawide camera, as well as an 8MP front facing camera. It comes with a 1/1.31” sensor and a f/1.7 aperture. The wide-angle camera has 1.2µm pixels, whilst the ultrawide uses 1.25µm pixels

You also get 4K video support as well as built-in image stabilization. The standard Pixel has no optical zoom, but it does support shooting in RAW. Being a smartphone, it has a touchscreen, and it’s also water resistant.

You can also upgrade to the Pixel 8 Pro if you want an additional 5x telephoto lens, although it does cost a bit more.

This would be our pick for the best reasonably priced smartphone for travel photography.

Check latest price here .

2. Fairphone 5

Since 2013, Fairphone have been manufacturing smartphones that are fairly made. What does that mean? Well, the idea is that the production of their devices is made in a sustainable way, with practices that benefit everyone involved.

That includes the people involved in everything from the mining of the materials that go into the phone, through to you, the consumer. Over the years, smartphones have become increasingly hard for consumers to repair, with the industry moving towards a more disposable model.

Fairphone wants to change that, with phones that are user repairable and upgradeable, as well as relatively affordable.

Now, to be honest, the first few phones from FairPhone weren’t class leading. Building a device that meets all their requirements is tough. But they have continued, and the latest iteration, the Fairphone 5, is actually solid performer when it comes to general use, and also as a camera.

You get two main cameras. The first is a 50MP f/1.9 aperture camera with a 1/1.56″ sensor, 1 μm pixels and optical image stabilization. The second is an ultrawide 50MP with an f/2.2 aperture, 0.7um pixels and a 1/2.51″ sensor.

Now, the image quality from other phones on our list will be marginally better, but the green and environmental credentials of the Fairphone are world leading for smartphones.

3. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

Samsung’s flagship Galaxy phones are known for their superior photography capabilities, and the 2023 Galaxy S23 Ultra is no exception.

You get four rear mounted lenses, a boggling 200MP f/1.7 wide angle, a telephoto 10MP f/4.9, a second telephoto 10MP f/2.4 and an ultrawide 12MP f/2.2.

This range of lenses gives you a 10x optical zoom, as well as impressive digital zoom capabilities which go all the way up to 100x! The front facing camera is no slouch either, offering a 12MP f/2.2 wide angle.

Pair that with pixel sizes from 0.6µm-1.4µm pixels and OIS – all packaged in a water-resistant smartphone, it’s no wonder that it is usually found at the top of the pile when people review cameras for smartphones. This is the smartphone I currently own and use for my mobile travel photography needs. Check latest price here .

4. iPhone 15 Pro Max

The latest iPhone Max model offers a range of photography focused features that make it a worthwhile upgrade over previous iPhone models. You get 3 cameras in total.

There’s a main 48MP camera which also offers a 2x 12MP zoom. Then there are 2 12-megapixel cameras, one which offers an ultra-wide lens, and one with a 5x telephoto zoom. This latter is the biggest optical zoom of any iPhone to date.

There’s also a built in LIDAR scanner, which makes for wonderful night photos, as well as a RAW mode. A great choice if you’re an Apple person.  Check latest price here .

Best Compact Camera for Travel Photography

Why pick a compact camera for travel photography.

A compact travel camera offers a number of advantages. First, they offer larger sensors than most smartphones, so image quality and performance is usually improved. They are pocketable, so easy to take with you.

Compact cameras also tend to be designed to be more user friendly (hence the nickname point-and-shoot cameras) and are generally much less expensive than mirrorless and DSLR camera systems. Many models offer manual controls, and having a separate device means you can keep on taking photos even if your smartphone battery is on the way out.

One of the biggest advantages though, and the reason to pick a compact travel camera over a smartphone, is the optical zoom. All the compact travel cameras we feature have an optical zoom (except the GoPros), letting you get shots of distant objects that you wouldn’t be able to get with a smartphone.

The main disadvantages are the smaller sensor sizes compared to a mirrorless or DSLR and the lack of interchangeable lenses.

If you’re interested in buying a compact camera, see our detailed guide to getting the most out of a compact camera here for some tips and advice.

What to look for when buying a Compact Travel Camera for Travel Photography

There are a variety of features that compact travel cameras offer for travel photography. Key features to look for are the optical zoom, and specifically, how much optical zoom the camera offers.

Other features include the size of the sensor – the bigger the sensor, the better the performance – the maximum aperture, and whether or not there is some form of image stabilisation technology built in.

Any camera with a long optical zoom needs excellent image stabilisation, as the more you zoom in, the more exacerbated tiny movements become.

Other features to consider depending on your needs include GPS, WiFi and touchscreen capabilities. Some more advanced compact travel cameras also include manual modes, which can really help you get the most out of them, and some even shoot in RAW. Let’s take a look at our pick of the best compact travel cameras.

The Best Compact Camera for Travel Photography

Here are a number of my top suggestions for compact travel cameras which I think are some of the best options for travel photography.

Note, many manufacturers have ramped down production of their compact cameras and new models are not being released. This is largely due to the popularity of smartphones.

The main impact is that many of the models I recommend are now older models.

This means stock and availability of some compact camera models can be very low. This is especially the case at the lower price points.

I’d suggest checking used camera sites like KEH or MPB if you are struggling to find a specific model.

1. Panasonic Lumix ZS70 / (TZ90 in UK)

With a 30x optical zoom lens, a 20.3MP 1/2.3 inch sensor, OIS, full manual controls and RAW support, this camera puts out some great shots at an excellent price for what you get. It even has an electronic viewfinder, which is rare in a compact camera and can make composing images in bright sunlight easier.

A newer model was released in 2019 – the ZS80 . This adds Bluetooth and a higher resolution EVF but not much else. We’re not sure that is a sufficient upgrade to justify the price difference, but it’s up to you. If you find them at the same price, then you might as well get the ZS80, otherwise the ZS70 remains our pick while it’s still available.

Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here

2. Sony RX100

It also has a fast f/1.8 aperture and a 3x optical zoom. It’s a little long in the tooth now, but you can pick one up for a great price, hence the inclusion in this list. You can also get newer models with newer features at increasing price points.

We use and love the RX100 version V , which offers a number of upgrades over this model and is available at a reasonable price. You can see the bottom of this section for the latest and greatest version as well.

Check price on Amazon here

3. Canon Powershot SX740

At 1/2.3in, the sensor is similar to other cameras at this price point. Also, as with other cameras with a long zoom, it comes with the tradeoff that the maximum aperture only goes to f3.3, and at maximum zoom, is all the way down at f/6.9.

Still, it’s one of the best zoom cameras in our list of point and shoot travel cameras, especially at this price point, and the price is excellent for what you get.

4. Olympus TG-7 Waterproof Camera

If you need a camera that will survive nearly everything you throw at it, including drops and being submerged in water, then this Olympus is a great option.

It’s particularly focused on those looking for underwater photography, and unlike the GoPro mentioned below, it features a 4x optical zoom lens. This is also optically stabilized.

This camera also has RAW shooting, 4K video support, a fast f/2 lens and built in GPS, as well as a variety of dust, shock and waterproof features. Of all the cameras in our list, this is probably the one with the most survivability!

5. Canon Powershot G9 X Mark II

It has more manual controls, allows for RAW shooting, and an aperture that starts at f/2. The optical zoom isn’t too impressive at 3x, but you definitely get improved image quality from that larger sensor.

6. Sony Cybershot HX99

With an excellent 28x optical zoom packed into a small body, the camera offers an 18.2-megapixel 1/2.3in sensor, flipping touch screen, 4K video support, electronic viewfinder, manual modes, RAW support, Bluetooth and 10fps shooting support.

It’s an excellent choice for a compact zoom camera, with good image quality and solid features. It’s also reasonably priced for what it offers.

Check price on Amazon here , B&H here and Adorama here .

7. Panasonic Lumix ZS100 (TZ100 in UK)

Panasonic’s 1-inch sensor camera model is no slouch, with an f/2.8 aperture lens and an impressive 10x optical zoom. It also has full manual controls, a touchscreen interface, EVF, OIS and RAW shooting.

It’s a little more pricey than other options in our list, but that optical zoom is a definite bonus in the 1-inch sensor category. There is also a newer model, the ZS200 , which costs a bit more and also has a 15x optical lens, although it has a narrower aperture as a result.

8. Panasonic Lumix LX100 II

We’re moving up a price point now with the Panasonic Lumix LX100 II. This is unique amongst the compact cameras in our lineup, as it uses a micro four thirds sensor.

This larger sensor results in better low light performance, but does mean the camera is larger and heavier. The sensor offers 17MP of resolution in a 4:3 aspect ratio. The camera comes with a 24-75mm equivalent lens (approximately 3x optical zoom) which offers a variable aperture of f/1.7 – f/2.8.

You also get a touch screen, electronic viewfinder, optical image stabilization, full manual controls, and RAW support. The screen however doesn’t flip out.

Overall, this is an excellent option for those who don’t mind trading absolutely portability for improved image quality. If you fall within this category, you may also consider the Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III , which has an even larger APS-C sized sensor in an even larger body.

9. Sony RX100 VII

There’s a big jump in price to Sony’s latest RX100 model, the RX100 VII. Released in August 2019, in our opinion this is one of the best compact travel cameras money can buy. If your budget can stretch to it then this would be our pick for the best compact camera for travel.

Like the previous model in the lineup, the VI, this camera is a leap over previous cameras in the RX100 lineup as it has a far more impressive optical zoom, equivalent to 8x, with a 24mm – 200mm lens.

This compares very favourably to the previous optical zoom of models in the range (versions I – V), at 3x.

It still retains the 1-inch sensor, so you get better image quality than your average compact camera. It’s also the first in the series to feature a variable aperture which is slightly slower – however we feel this is a reasonable trade-off due to the zoom capability. It also has image stabilisation, a tilting screen and an electronic viewfinder.

We would argue that this is the best small camera for travel photography, if you have the budget for it, although the improvements over the VI are not too significant, so if you can find that for a lower price, that might be the one to go for. We personally have the version V model which we got for a great price during a sale event.

The Best Action Camera for Travel Photography

Why pick an action camera for travel photography.

If you are going to be spending time doing any kind of adventure activities, from snorkelling and swimming to skiing or snowboarding, an action camera is likely going to be the best option for you.

These tiny cameras are designed for use in more extreme environments, including total water immersion, and are perfect for capturing moments that other cameras simply wouldn’t survive.

That survivability does come with a trade-off of course – most action cameras don’t have manual controls, optical zoom or the ability to change aperture settings. However, when you’re catching the perfect wave you are unlikely to be wanting to fiddle with that sort of thing anyway – you just want something that works.

We’d generally say that an action camera is going to be best as a secondary camera or if you plan on making a lot of video. It can work as your primary camera, if you are happy to live with the restrictions.

What to look for when buying an Action Camera for Travel Photography

Most action cameras are fairly similar in size and features, although there are a few things to look out for.

Obviously, the environments the camera can survive in are important to consider. Some action cameras are totally waterproof for example, whilst others will need a special housing.

The interface is also important. These cameras are very small, so having a simple interface is key so you aren’t fumbling with setting when trying to get the shot.

Other features to look out for are image or video stabilization, size of the screen, if it has a touchscreen for control, additional features like voice commands and the resolution of the video and photo files. Support for 4K video for example should be the default for any action camera you buy for travel.

It’s also worth checking to see what accessories the camera comes with, as this can add a lot to the price. Some cameras come with a lot of accessories out of the box, whilst others will require you to spend quite a bit on additional accessories to meet your needs.

Best Action Camera for Travel Photography

Here are some of our suggestions for the best action cameras for travel photography. We also have a more complete guide to the best action cameras if you want some more suggestions.

1. Akaso Brave 7 LE

Despite the lower price, this camera doesn’t skimp on features. It supports video at up to 4K at 30 frames per second, 20MP still image capture, voice commands, electronic image stabilization, a large touch screen for control, and a second front facing screen which is perfect for selfies. It’s even water resistant without the case down to a metre, or 40 metres with the case.

Check price on Amazon here .

2. GoPro Hero

The most well-known brand in action cameras has to be GoPro, and specifically the GoPro Hero range of action cameras. Whilst they tend to be the more expensive option, they excel at action photography and video.

If you need something that’s going to survive water and action, then the GoPro line is the best option out there.

Advantages of the GoPro are that it is waterproof without a housing down to 10 metres (with housings available deeper than this), and they have fantastic image stabilization. It also has voice activated commands.

The disadvantage is that to get the best shots you are going to need to buy a number of accessories so you can mount the GoPro wherever you want. These can add up a bit. You’re also likely to need additional batteries.

Still, if you want the best action camera out there for image quality and features, the GoPro series is the one to go for!

Check price on Amazon here and  B&H here  

3. Insta360 Go 3

If you can’t decide between an ultraportable action camera and one with a screen, then we’d highly recommend checking out the Insta360 Go 3, which offers the best of both worlds, and is one of the action cameras we currently use.

The camera itself is tiny, weighing around 35g (1.2oz). Despite the diminutive size it’s still fully featured though, supporting 2.7K video. It’s also waterproof without a housing and features a powerful magnet system which allows you to mount and attach it almost anywhere.

If you use the camera on its own then there’s no screen. However, pop it into the “action pod” and it turns into a more traditional looking action camera with a full size tiling touchscreen, control buttons and additional battery life.

4. Insta360 X3

Most cameras on the market today shoot what’s in front of you. However, if you want to capture all the action, then you might consider a 360-degree action camera.

If that’s the case, then the brand we recommend is Insta360. They’ve been making 360-degree cameras for a number of years, and we have used a number of their cameras on trips around the world.

Their latest 360 action camera is the Insta360 X3 . It comes with two cameras, meaning it can capture a 360-degree view of the world at 5.7K. It’s no slouch at photography either, able to capture a 72MP 360 degree photo.

That means that you can get the shot and then crop down as you wish to frame the exact action moment you want. Alternatively, you can shoot with a single lens if you want. Both front and rear facing cameras are equipped with a 1/2″ 48MP sensor. It also supports HDR mode and is waterproof to 33ft (10 metres).

Check price on Amazon here and  B&H here 

Best Mirrorless Camera for Travel Photography

Why pick a mirrorless travel camera for travel photography.

A mirrorless travel camera is a relatively new development in the travel camera space. They are similar to DSLR cameras; however they do not have an internal mirror to reflect light from the lens to the optical viewfinder.

This means that they can be smaller, lighter and more portable – making them a top contender for the best camera for travel.

Mirrorless cameras also have all the other benefits of a DSLR – larger sensors, manual controls, excellent image quality and interchangeable lenses.

In terms of disadvantages, they are of course larger and heavier than smartphones or compact travel cameras and are more expensive, especially when you factor in one or two good lenses.

Compared to DSLRs, they generally have poorer battery life, and less lens choice – although this latter is improving as mirrorless systems mature.

What to look for when buying a Mirrorless Travel Camera for Travel Photography

Mirrorless cameras come with different sensor sizes, from the micro 4/3 format up to full frame. All of these are larger than those you will find in compact travel cameras or smartphones, and again, the larger the sensor, the more light the camera can capture in any given situation.

Another key factor to consider is the lens selection. Different manufacturers offer different lens systems, so it’s worth investigating to be sure there are sufficient lens choices for the kind of photography you want to be doing. Also be aware that whilst most mirrorless cameras ship with a kit lens, you can also buy them without a kit lens and then buy a more suitable lens for your needs.

Other considerations include the screen type, if the camera has an EVF, WiFi, water resistance, type of focus system and so on.

Also be aware that all of the camera manufacturer’s below have a range of mirrorless options – I’ve done my best to highlight those that offer the best combination of price and features for travel photography.

Based on a few years of experience shooting with a variety of different mirrorless camera systems, and feedback from fellow travel photographers, we’re put together our list of the best mirrorless cameras for travel.

If you choose one of these, we also recommend reading our guide to how to use a mirrorless camera to get you started!

1. Canon EOS R100

With a large APS-C size sensor as found in their consumer DSLRs, the Canon EOS R100 is one of the best budget travel camera options to consider. It took Canon a while to get into the mirrorless camera game, but their “R” series is now a serious line-up of excellent cameras.

The R100 is the entry level model, launched in July 2023. You get an APS-C sized 24.1MP sensor, a superb autofocus system, support for a wide range of lenses as well as built in Wi-Fi, NFC and Bluetooth. The relatively large sensor offers good performance, and I’ve personally always found the Canon menu system to be the most intuitive to use.

There’s no touchscreen, which is a logical omission at this price point, but other than that you are looking at perhaps the best entry-level mirrorless camera for beginners.

Check price on Amazon here and B&H here .

2. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

The Olympus has an excellent in-camera stabilisation system, an EVF, a (fixed) touchscreen and WiFi connectivity. There’s also a wide range of micro 4/3 lenses available.

3. Sony a6100

Sony have been making mirrorless cameras for a long time, and the a6000 was our model of choice for a long time. However, the camera was released in 2014, and is now getting a bit long in the tooth.

Today, we recommend the a6100 which was released in 2019. This features an APS-C sized sensor (the same as you find in most DSLR’s), fast autofocus, a tilting touch screen, EVF, and a wide range of lenses, plus WiFi, and is an excellent bit of kit for the price. The main omission is weather sealing, for which you’d want to consider the a6400 or a6600 .

Sony have a number of models in the a6xxx range. These include the a6000 (2014, discontinued), a6300 (2016, discontinued), a6500 (2016, discontinued), a6600 (2019), a6400 (2019) our current recommendation, the a6100 (2019) and the a6700 (2023).

Each of these offers different features and capabilities over the a6100. Differences include battery life, autofocus, touch screen capabilities and image stabilization.

Depending on your budget, you might find one of these suits your needs better. The a6600 in particular is an excellent choice as it offers in camera image stabilization as well as a touch screen, weather sealing and much improved battery life.

However, as of writing we think the a6100 is one of the best budget mirrorless cameras for travel.

4. Nikon Z50

Nikon was late to the mirrorless camera game, but they’ve now released a number of mirrorless camera models including full frame and DX sensor models.

The Z50 is their more entry level mirrorless camera, which features a DX sized sensor, similar to the APS-C sensor in other cameras.

It has a 20.9MP sensor, 11fps burst shooting, 4K video support, a tilting touchscreen display and an OLED viewfinder.  You also get Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity, with battery life rated to around 300 shots.

If you are an existing Nikon user looking to make the leap to mirrorless, this is an excellent option. It’s a great lightweight alternative to something like the D7500, and has compatibility with most of Nikon’s lenses via an adaptor.

If you’d prefer a full frame option, consider the Nikon Z6 II or Z7 II .

Price: Check price on Amazon here , B&H here , and Adorama here

5. Panasonic Lumix GX9

To start with, Panasonic cameras are known for excellent video performance, and if this was a round-up of the best travel video camera, it would have many more Panasonic cameras in!

The GX9 also has the advantages of a fully tilting touchscreen, 4K video, excellent sensor based optical stabilisation, a wide lens choice (most micro 4/3 lenses will work). Unfortunately, unlike the GX8, this doesn’t have a weather sealed body.

6. Fujifilm X-T30 II

The X-T30 II features an APS-C sized 26.1MP sensor, excellent build quality and a reputation for taking superb, sharp photos.

You also get an EVF, a tilting touch screen and WiFi.

If you want a more traditional mode dial interface, check out the Fuji X-S10 which offers similar specifications but with the addition of in-body stabilization.

7. Canon EOS RP

This is the first full frame option in our list. I wanted to include full frame cameras in this list, despite them being a little larger and often more expensive than cameras with smaller sensors.

A full frame camera has a sensor that is approximately equivalent to a frame of 35mm film, and they generally offer the best image quality and low-light performance, at the downside of a higher price and larger physical size.

Canon’s full frame mirrorless range launched in 2018 with the Canon EOS R , and the RP is the more budget friendly offering, which has an excellent feature set in a very compact offering.

For your money you get a full frame sensor in a lightweight, weather-resistant body. There’s a flipping touchscreen, WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity, and a 26.2-megapixel sensor.

The best news though is that if you are an existing Canon user, there’s a lens adaptor. This will let you use all your existing EF and EF-S Canon lenses with the camera, meaning you don’t have to re-invest in all new lenses.

There are a few omissions – there’s no in-body image stabilization, and burst rates max out at 5fps. However we think this is an excellent option, especially if you already have some Canon lenses.

If your budget stretches to it you might instead consider the more recent Canon EOS R8 , but for the money I think the RP is a bargain full frame option.

8. Canon EOS R7

Launched in 2022, this APS-C camera is packed with the latest technology. In fact, a lot of the technology in this camera, especially around autofocus, is borrowed from Canon’s high-end EOS R3, a camera which retails in excess of $6,000 USD.

At the heart of this camera is a 32.5MP APS-C sized sensor. That is fully image stabilized, and it supports shooting at 15 frames per second (mechanical) and a staggering 30 frames per second (electronic).

Perhaps the most impressive feature though is the autofocus. This can identify and track a range of subjects, including animals and birds. I have used this system extensively and it is amazing how well it can lock onto even a fast moving subject to enable you to get sharp shots every time.

You also get a touch-enabled flip screen, weather sealing, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, and compatibility with a massive selection of Canon lenses. Battery life is reasonable at 660 shots, and the weight without a lens is also good at 612g/ 21.58oz.

If the price is a bit much, consider instead the Canon EOS R10 . The sensor has fewer megapixels and you lose image stabilization and weather sealing. However, it weighs a lot less and you still get a very powerful camera for your money.

Price on B&H here  and  Adorama here

9. Sony Alpha 7c II

If you like the look of the Sony A6xxx line but want something with a full frame sensor, look no further than the Sony A7C.

Somehow, Sony has managed to fit a full frame sensor into a body that is almost identical in size and weight to the A6600, making it one of the smallest full frame mirrorless cameras on the market today.

They haven’t cut corners in terms of features either. You get a 33MP sensor, 10fps shooting, in body image stabilization, 4K video, WiFi, bluetooth, vari-angle touchscreen and weather proofing.

It even manages 540 shots on a charge. A fantastic option if you want something with a full frame sensor but in a relatively compact size.

Check latest price on Amazon here , B&H here , and Adorama here

10. Canon EOS R6 Mark II

In 2020, Canon launched two spectacular mirrorless camera options, namely the Canon EOS R6 and the Canon EOS R5 .

These were the first full frame mirrorless cameras from Canon featuring in-body image stabilization, offering an amazing 8 stops of stabilization when used with a compatible lens.

In 2022, a new model of the R6 was released, the R6 Mark II. This features improved battery life, a slightly larger sensor, and a much faster burst shooting speed compared to the original R6. It also retails at the same original MSRP of the R6, so would be the camera we recommend.

Compared to the R5, the R6 Mark II is the lower priced version, and the one we would recommend for most travel photographers. The R5 is an amazing bit of kit, with 8K video support and a higher megapixel sensor. We personally use the R5 (see our full Canon EOS R5 review here ), and love it.

However, the R6 Mark II offers a very similar experience with a much-improved price point, so unless you really need the 8K video support or higher megapixel count, we think the R6 Mark II is a great option.

Specs wise the Canon EOS R6 gives you a 24.2MP full frame sensor, autofocus that can track people, animals, and vehicles, up to a staggering 40 frames per second burst shooting, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth, 4K video, as well as a flip-out touchscreen. It’s also dust and drip-proof.

As with the Canon EOS RP above, there’s a lens adaptor which will let you use all your existing EF and EF-S Canon lenses with the camera, meaning you don’t have to re-invest in all new lenses. If you have the budget, this would definitely be my camera of choice for travel photography.

You can see our full Canon EOS R5 review here , which covers a lot of the features of the R6 Mark II, to see if it might be the camera for you.

Check price on Amazon here , B&H here  and Adorama here .

11. Sony Alpha a7 IV

Sony effectively started the mirrorless camera revolution, and the Sony a7 IV, as the name suggests, is the fourth iteration in the excellent a7 range.

It comes with a full frame 33MP back side illuminated sensor, flip out LCD display, a high refresh rate EVF, WiFi, 10fps burst shooting and a fast autofocus system that includes animal and people eye tracking.

It also has excellent battery life at 610 shots per full charge, and includes weather sealing.

Of course, all these features do mean the price is relatively high. The good news is that you can still pick up previous models in the range, including the A7 III and A7 II . You lose some of the latest technology, but you still get great performance at a much lower price.

Check price on B&H here and Adorama here .

Best DSLR Cameras for Travel Photography

Why pick a dslr travel camera for travel photography.

Honestly, if this is your first travel camera purchase, then I suggest that a mirrorless camera is a better choice for most travel photography use compared to a DSLR. They offer all the control you need in a smaller, lighter package, with an ideal balance of portability and image quality.

For a time DSLR’s had a better choice of lenses and improved battery life over their mirrorless counterparts, but those areas have been significantly improved with modern mirrorless cameras and so this is no longer a good reason.

The main disadvantage of a DSLR is the weight – the weight in particular, especially when you add in some high quality lenses, is a real issue for many users.

That said, at the entry level especially, you can pick up some real bargain DSLR cameras. So if you are just starting out and want something to learn photography with, a DSLR can be a solid budget option, giving you full manual control over your photography.

Just be aware that the main manufacturers are almost exclusively focusing on mirrorless cameras going forward, which would appear to be the future of photography.

What to look for when buying a DSLR Travel Camera for Travel Photography

DSLRs tend to be the largest type of camera, so one thing that is important to look for is that the camera is comfortable in your hand. My suggestion is to visit a store and try the camera in hand, with a variety of lenses attached, to see how they perform before making a purchase. Canon and Nikon still rule the cameras in this category.

Features are fairly similar across most DSLR’s in terms of capability. They’ll either offer an APS-C sized sensor, or, more expensively, a full frame sensor.

Other features to look for include the ISO range, lens selection, weather resistance, GPS, WiFi, touch screen, autofocus system and number of control dials. More dials can be a good thing – letting you quickly set the camera up for different needs without having to dive into menu options.

If you do purchase a DSLR camera, do also take a look at our guide to using a DSLR camera to help you get the most out of it.

Best DSLR Camera for Travel Photography

We personally travel with both mirrorless camera’s and DSLR’s – for our work as travel photographers we still love our full frame DSLR – the image quality and lens selection still make these a great choice for us. Based on our experiences, here are the top five DSLR travel cameras available at the moment:

1. Nikon D3500

For the money you get a 24.2 APS-C sized sensor, solid performance and an excellent selection of lenses. To be honest, there’s not much between this and the more expensive Canon below other than this doesn’t offer 4K video support. It really depends what works for you and your budget.

2. Canon Rebel SL3 (EOS 250D in Europe)

The Canon Rebel line is an excellent series of good value entry-level DSLR cameras (my first DSLR was a Rebel), and the SL3 is no exception.

It’s one of the smaller SLR cameras Canon has made, and offers great performance for an excellent price. Specs include a touchscreen, 24.2MP sensor, WiFi, 1070 shot battery capacity, 4K video support, and compatibility with all of Canon’s lenses (and a great many third party lenses.).

The SL3 was released in April 2019, and it’s predecessor (and our previous pick), the Rebel SL2 , is likely to be available at a good price as a result. It’s a very similar camera, featuring the same sensor, but has around half the battery life and doesn’t support 4K video.

3. Nikon D7500

Moving up into the “prosumer” category of DSLR camera’s, and Nikon’s version is the D7500. This is Nikon’s high end APS-C camera, with a 20.9MP sensor, fast autofocus, a weather sealed body, and Wi-Fi. It also has a tilting 3.2″ touchscreen.

If you’re looking to upgrade from an existing consumer focused Nikon to something a bit more professional from the Nikon range, this is a good choice. However, you might prefer the lighter and just as fully featured Nikon Z50 instead.

4. Canon EOS 90D

5. Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Compared to its predecessor, and our previous favourite travel camera the Canon EOS 6D, the Mark II adds a touchscreen which swivels.

It’s solidly built, and well priced, having seen some great discounts since it launched at $1800. For a full-frame travel DSLR, we think this is a great bit of kit.

Just be aware that it’s only compatible with “EF” mount lenses – any “EF-S” mount lenses from other Canon bodies won’t work. If it’s a bit pricey, do consider the original 6D, which is still a fantastic travel camera and is very competitively priced nowadays.

What is the Best Budget Travel Camera?

As a bonus section – this is one of the most popular questions I’m asked when people ask me to help them choose the best travel camera, so I thought a section to help those of you with a fixed budget would help.

My suggestion for the best budget travel camera is one of the following cameras. Note that some of these are older and may no longer be in stock. As a result, you might want to pick them up second hand, see my guide to buying used cameras for tips on how and where to do that.

1.  Nikon D3500

It also comes with the advantage that you get access to all the Nikon and Nikon compatible lenses, which is a huge choice. If you’re keen on an SLR, this is a great option at a fantastic price point.

2. Olympus OM-D EM-M10 III

It’s also cheaper since the launch of the Mark 4, meaning you can pick it up with a lens and be right on budget!

3.  Sony RX100

With full manual controls and the ability to shoot in RAW, plus a 1-inch sensor and excellent image quality, this is far more than “just” a point and shoot.

As mentioned in the compact camera section above, there are various iterations of this model available, and you can pick up one of the earlier versions for a great price.

If you’re looking for a quick summary of the best travel camera on the market today, these would be our picks, ordered by camera type.

• Sony RX100 range : If you’re just looking for a point and shoot camera that will take great photos with minimal input, then I’d suggest this range as a great option.
• Panasonic Lumix ZS70 : If you are constrained by budget but want a good zoom, this is the best budget compact travel camera with a decent zoom.
• Sony a6600 : If you want a great compact mirrorless camera, the Sony a6xxx range is the one to go for. The entry level model is the Sony a6100 , (discontinued in late 2021 but stock is still available) but if you can stretch to the a6600 that’s a better option as it has image stabilization and a touch screen.
• Sony Alpha 7c II – if you want all the benefits of a full frame camera but in a compact package, this is the camera to go for. I think it’s the ideal camera for hiking or backpacking .
• Sony Alpha a7 II – for a budget full frame mirrorless camera, this would be our choice. It’s also fantastic value. Note this is a bit older now, so the A7 III or A7 IV might be a better option depending on your budget.
• Nikon D3500 : If you are looking for a DSLR for travel photography, I’d recommend this Nikon at the entry level
• Canon EOS 6D Mark II : This is our pick for our favourite high end DSLR for travel photography, although we’d recommend a mirrorless camera to most users
• Canon EOS R6 Mark II – An excellent compact full frame mirrorless camera with all the features you need. If your budget will stretch to it, also consider the Canon EOS R5 which is the camera I currently use

Hopefully this summary helps with your purchasing decision! If I was purchasing a camera today with no previous lenses, I would likely go with the Sony Alpha 7c if I wanted something lightweight.

As a Canon user with lots of lenses though, I’d go with the Canon EOS R6 Mark II or Canon EOS R5 . If you are a Nikon user with existing lenses, then I’d suggest the Nikon Z50 , the Nikon Z6 II or Z7 II .

When upgrading, it’s often easier to stay with the same manufacturer as the menu systems are usually going to be familiar, and your existing lenses might carry over.

Accessories for your Travel Camera

When budgeting for your travel camera, don’t forget to think about any accessories you might need.

If you’re planning to buy an interchangeable lens camera like a mirrorless or DSLR system, then you will obviously need a lens. Check out our guide to the best travel lenses here for some recommendations across a range of systems.

We’d also recommend considering some of the following accessories.

Travel can be rough on your photography gear, and so I recommend investing in a good photography bag.

Camera bags are specially designed to provide padding and protection for your gear, and many of them also come with rain covers. This means that you have somewhere safe, protected and padded to put your gear.

Personally, I use Vanguard photography bags and I’ve been an ambassador for Vanguard for many years now. If you see something on their store that works for your equipment, you can save money using our exclusive Vanguard discount code. This will give you 20% off everything in the  Vanguard store.

Just use the code  FindingTheUniverse for your discount! This code works in the Vanguard USA, UK, Australia, Spain, and Germany stores.

There are of course a range of other camera bags available, you can see the options on Amazon here and B&H Photo here .

External Hard Drive

When you travel, it’s important to be able to store your photos somewhere safe. To do this, we recommend investing in an external SSD.

The price of external SSDs has come down in recent years, so we would recommend one of these over a mechanical version as they are much faster, smaller, as well as being far less prone to losing data.

The external SSD we currently use by Adata is ruggedized and dust and water resistant. It also supports both Mac and PC users.

Photo Editing Software

To get the best out of your photos you are going to want to edit them, and to do that you’ll need a photo editing application!

There are a number to choose from, including paid options like Adobe Lightroom Classic CC , Skylum Luminar AI , and ON1 Photo RAW , as well as free options like Darktable and Fotor .

Deciding which to go for is a whole other decision. To help you out, I’ve put together a guide to the best photo editing applications , which has both paid and free options.

Accident Protection

A camera is a significant investment, and as such you might want to protect yourself from accidental damage.

The price of this varies depending on the cost of your camera gear, but a relatively small investment can provide peace of mind against a variety of common accidents, from liquid spills, to accidentally dropping it.

For some examples, here’s a 3 year accident protection plan for electronics valued between $1500 and $1999.99, whilst this one covers products between $800 and $899.

Note that both of these are only valid for qualifying purchases from Amazon.com. If you are shopping elsewhere, or direct from the manufacturer, check what they have available before purchasing if this is important to you.

It’s also possible to take out separate insurance, or that your homeowners insurance for example covers such things.

Backup Software

If you aren’t already backing up your photos, now is the time to change that. There’s no point having an awesome laptop to edit your photos on if you lose them all!

We have a complete guide to how to back up photos , which has a range of options and covers what to look for.

However, if you want an easy to use option with unlimited backups, then we use and recommend Backblaze . It’s well priced and in our experience is just works. You can try it out for free here .

Further travel photography reading and resources

And that summarizes my guide to the best travel camera for travel photography! Hopefully you found it useful. I’ll be keeping it up to date as new camera models come out and prices change.

In the meantime, if you’re looking for more resources to help you make the most out of your travel photography, check out the following resources I’ve put together:

• My guide to picking the best lens for travel photography , which will be useful if you have a camera with interchangeable lenses.
• My always expanding series of Photography Location Guides , to help you get the best shot in locations around the world.
• Photos need editing to get the best out of them. See our guide to the best photo editing software for our suggestions. If you’re looking for something to edit your photos on, see our guide to the best laptops for photo editing
• An overview of my Travel Photography Gear , in case you wondered what a professional photographer has in his bag
• Our guide to what to buy a photographer , which has gift ideas at every price point and experience level. For more general gift ideas, see our gift guide for travelers , and our tech gift buying guide .
• A  Beginners’ Guide to Improving your Travel Photos
• My series of Photography Tips , which I am always expanding and updating with posts like this one. See our guides to northern lights photography , lens compression ,  back button focus ,  fireworks photography ,  taking photos of stars ,  cold weather photography ,  long exposure photography ,  RAW in photography , use of  ND filters ,  depth of field  and  photography composition , which should get you going
• If you like the photos on this blog, you’ll be pleased to hear they are all available for sale. Head on over to our photography sales page to place an order.

Looking to Improve Your Photography?

If you found this post helpful, and you want to improve your photography overall, you might want to check out my online travel photography course .

Since launching the course in 2016, I’ve already helped over 2,000+ students learn how to take better photos. The course covers pretty much everything you need to know, from the basics of how a camera works, through to composition, light, and photo editing.

It also covers more advanced topics, including astrophotography, long exposure photography, flash photography and HDR photography.

You get feedback from me as you progress, access to webinars, interviews and videos, as well as exclusive membership of a facebook group where you can get feedback on your work and take part in regular challenges.

It’s available for an amazing one-off price for lifetime access, and I think you should check it out. Which you can do by clicking here .

And we’re done! Thanks for reading – if you’ve got any comments, feedback or suggestions, just let me know in the comments below.

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Ian Andersen says

28th January 2024 at 10:29 am

Thanks for great and thorough reviews. I did not read through all of them and I was wondering if you could say which travel (super zoom) camera WITH GPS is better.

Laurence Norah says

28th January 2024 at 5:58 pm

Unfortunately, the majority of newer cameras don’t come with built-in GPS tagging functionality on the camera. Instead, if you find a camera which has WiFi and a companion smartphone app, they tend to pull the GPS info from the companion app. So really what you want is one of the travel cameras which has this feature. The Sony cameras in this list such as the RX100 do support this, and I believe the Panasonic ones do. However I’d recommend doing a search for each camera to ensure it does meet your requirements. Do you have a short list of cameras you like already, and I can look at trying to help.

29th January 2024 at 6:29 am

Thanks Laurence, I was a satisfied Lumix TZ user for many years up to – was it TZ 60 or 70 that still had the GPS built in. The argument for losing it was saving battery power but I found that carrying extra batteries was way simpler than using their clunky iPhone app. My latest is a TZ 202. Great pictures but annoying not to gave them tagged. I tried to switch to the SONY DSC-HX90V hoping for easier operation of the phone connection. Again, great photos but clunky GPS solution. So I am really hoping for a small (belt-carried) camera with GPS so I can get away from almost exclusively using my iPhone 15 pro.

29th January 2024 at 4:05 pm

I assure you, I feel your pain. I shot on a Canon 6D for a very long time and one of the features I loved was the built-in GPS tagging. Now I have an R5, and I have to use the Canon companion smartphone app for GPS tagging. Whilst it works pretty well, it’s another step I have to remember to do. It also eats up my smartphone battery if I forget to shut it off after shooting. About the only system I know of that still has built in GPS on a relatively compact camera is the Olympus Tough TG6, but that doesn’t have much of a zoom and is more designed as a rugged camera. So I’m not sure it will meet your needs, but one to look at.

Happy shooting 🙂

Farhana Farid says

29th September 2023 at 6:22 am

This guide on the best travel cameras is a game-changer for wanderlust enthusiasts like me! The detailed reviews and recommendations provide a clear understanding of which cameras are most suitable for capturing those breathtaking moments on the go. The consideration of factors like portability, image quality, and versatility is spot on. Thanks for making my travel photography decisions so much easier!

1st October 2023 at 10:13 am

My pleasure Farhana, I hope you find a great camera for your travels 🙂

Kevin Nalty says

15th October 2023 at 1:43 am

Hi. Agree- this is really thorough and didn’t overwhelm me. I’m curious what you think of the Canon EOS R50. I did a review of it in my blog (Willvideoforfood) but I’m not even remotely as informed. -Kevin

15th October 2023 at 12:14 pm

Thanks very much! So I think Canon has been hitting it out of the park recently with their mirrorless camera options and to be honest it’s almost hard to go wrong with whatever recent mirrorless model you pick up. The R50 specifically offers tremendous value and you get a lot of features, especially the autofocus system, which has the same features as you would find on their super high-end models like the R5 (which is what I use). In the old days of Canon they arbitrarily kept some features for their higher end models only, but that approach seems to be changing for the better which is good news for us consumers. The main downside with the R50 as you note in your review is a lack of optical image stabilization. I would also add that I don’t create video, so those areas of a camera are something I don’t review or use.

For anyone else reading this, now is honestly a great time to be buying a camera. The vast majority of recent releases have been excellent, with superb image quality and a solid range of features. As I said, it’s almost hard to go wrong 🙂

Thanks for stopping by!

Gurshabad Bakshi says

9th September 2023 at 6:02 am

Hi, awesome post. Very thoughtful and comprehensive. I have been reading your bogs and planned a visit to Bali based on your suggestions. I want to carry a leisure photography budget camera, that can click good photos and underwater videos and stuff. I have some questions for that. For what all activities and where all do you use Akaso Brave 7 camera? Is its image quality good enough? And if you could share some sample pics and viseos, it would be so very wonderful and helpful.

10th September 2023 at 3:02 pm

Hi Gurshabad!

So we honestly only use the Akaso (and any other action camera for that matter) for specific situations like underwater photography. The reason is that we personally have other cameras that are better for things like landscapes, and wildlife photography, but the Akaso is the only camera we have for underwater photography. So whilst it definitely works for that, we wouldn’t personally use it for everything just because we have other camera gear. However, if you are happy with the limitations, like not being able to zoom or adjust many settings, it could certainly work. I’m on a trip right now so don’t have access to all my images, so I can’t share samples unfortunately.

Hopefully this helps a bit. Have a great time in Bali 🙂

William says

22nd August 2023 at 11:10 pm

Great review and suggestions!. Thank you.

23rd August 2023 at 10:35 am

Thanks William!

Rachel says

3rd June 2023 at 8:47 pm

Thank you for this great article! I’m going to be traveling for my honeymoon soon, and decided I should upgrade from using my smartphone for all my photos to using an actual camera so I can get some printable quality photos. I’ve read a few lists like this one, but yours is the only one I’ve read that doesn’t just feel like a paid advertisement. I appreciate all the tips and advice you listed here. I now have a camera on my wishlist, thank you!

4th June 2023 at 7:03 pm

Hey Rachel! I’m so glad you found my article helpful, and many thanks for taking the time to let me know. I hope you enjoy your new camera, and if you have any questions as you continue your photography adventure feel free to reach out!

Claude AYMARD says

31st January 2023 at 8:15 pm

Hello, for you which can be the best safari travel camera easy to used for good photo quality -canon sx70 hs -canon m200 with 55-200mm -lumix tz100 -Lumix GX9 with 14-140mm thank’s in advance

1st February 2023 at 10:40 am

I do have a guide to the best safari cameras here which might help. However, from your list I would probably lean towards the Canon SX70HS for ease of use and also the great zoom means you can get good shots of further away subjects. My dad actually has the SX60 and he really likes it, we’re on safari right now and he is using it with good results.

Let me know if you have any more questions and bon voyage 🙂

9th August 2022 at 2:04 pm

10th August 2022 at 12:38 pm

Thanks Tanis!

9th July 2022 at 8:13 pm

Hello! I am so happy that I stumbled upon your website when researching for a trip to Iceland. I fell in love with photography when I was on my high school’s yearbook staff, a long long time ago. I have collected many SLR cameras over the years, manual and digital along with lenses (Nikon and Canon). Sadly, none of them have been used for several years and when I recently pulled them out, I realized how outdated they are. So…I am looking to sell everything (thanks for your amazing article on how to do that!) and start fresh. If you were me, with a budget of $2k-$4k, looking for a very high quality, relatively light weight camera system with the latest and best technology, what would you recommend? I would like one camera with two lenses at the most. Light weight enough that it’s easy to carry and use, without sacrificing image quality. Something that I can ‘grow into’ as a I renew my love of photography. Many thanks for sharing your expertise. Cheers!

10th July 2022 at 9:59 am

It’s great to hear from you, and I’m so pleased you have been finding the site useful so far!

With your requirement for something lightweight but that also has great image quality (and within budget of course) I would probably suggest the Sony Alpha 7c . Excellent autofocus, in body image stabilization, a full frame sensor and a weather sealed design, somehow all in a body that weighs about a 1lb.

If you wanted lighter, the Canon EOS RP is another full frame option which is fractionally lighter and also significantly cheaper, however you lose in body image stabilization and the focus tracking system isn’t quite as accomplished as the Sony in this model. It’s also slightly larger, despite being less heavy.

Both cameras have an excellent selection of lenses to choose from depending on what you want to photograph 🙂

Let me know if I can help any more!

17th April 2022 at 12:56 am

Hello Laurence, First off let me say thank you for such great articles, guides, advice and overview for someone who’s never been to Scotland and interested in touring the NC500. With that said, there are many great choices concerning camera & lens combinations in your article. Getting specific addressing the NC500 route, just what would be your best advice for focal lengths in reference to 35mm full frame? I see many wide to ultra wide images in the article, so inquiring about specific needs. Want to pack a 1-2 lens kit for this specific trip, and of course I’m thinking a tripod will be handy also!

17th April 2022 at 10:21 am

It’s our pleasure, I am pleased to have been of help. So I primarily travel with two lenses, a 16-35mm and a 70-200mm. Most of the landscape shots I take are with the wide angle, although there are sometimes nice opportunities to use the longer lens for isolating a subject. But if I was going to only take one lens it would be the wide-angle all the way.

Hopefully this answers your question! Let me know if I can offer any further input, I’m happy to help.

Edward says

31st January 2021 at 9:50 am

Hi, I was happy to read where you wrote “Personally, I love having a camera with GPS”. So do I, or rather so would I, but I am having trouble finding one that I like the look of. All I want is a compact camera with GPS and a viewfinder, with a useable zoom (say up to 200mm equivalent) and good image quality (which today would imply a sensor of 1″ or bigger). There is no such unicorn.

So what do you use, please, that gives you GPS? Or do you use an “add-on later” method like recording a GPS track and geotagging your photos later? I personally am reluctant to do that for a number of reasons, mainly that I travel for 3-6 months at a time (or at least I did when I could) without carrying a computer, so I would not only have a lot of geotagging to do later, but the on-the-road backup to Dropbox would not be geotagged.

31st January 2021 at 2:11 pm

I currently use a Canon 6D, which is a full frame DSLR. For a while Canon added GPS units to a number of their cameras, but unfortunately this useful feature has been missing from their newer models. For me it’s one of the most useful features to have, so I don’t like the omission. The reasoning is to do with battery life I suspect. GPS units take up power, and newer mirrorless cameras are already battery hungry. So leaving off the GPS is done in an effort to conserve battery power I suspect.

The good news is that many cameras today include the ability to pair with a smartphone app over Bluetooth or Wifi. When the camera takes a picture, it polls the smartphone app for location data, and embeds that in the photo. This of course does require extra setup, remembering to connect the camera to the phone before every shoot, and can drain your smartphone battery too. So it’s not amazing as an alternative, but it does at least work.

I believe that the Sony Image link app supports this for the Sony RX100 series, so with your requirements of a 200mm zoom and a 1″ sensor, the Sony RX100 VI or higher would be an option. Another option I believe would be the Panasonic ZS200.

Finally, another option, as you mention, is to use a third party GPS logger, either a standalone device or an app on your phone, that records the data and saves it, which you can then manually sync later. Again, it’s more work.

Overall, I would much prefer that manufacturers just add the GPS device and let us as users decide for ourselves if we want to use it and use up battery life. Hopefully it makes a reappearance as a standard feature!

1st March 2021 at 5:06 pm

Hello, thanks for the well thought-out response. It gives me a lot to think about, and if I do have to give up one or more of my checkboxes (or at least half of one, by needing to use a separate app), I may rethink them all – take a step back and ask myself what I really want to do, rather than ask what equipment will satisfy what I think are my wants. I suspect that the RX100 VI plus the app would be the nearest I could get. Or the Panasonic SZ200/TZ200 (or SZ100) plus its app. It is ironic that it seems that 1-inch sensor compacts really took off in the mid-2010s, just as manufacturers were deciding to drop GPS.

2nd March 2021 at 4:37 pm

My pleasure Edward! I would say that one of those would be the best option. It is certainly disappointing that this is no longer a standard feature!

Kyle O'Donnell says

16th December 2020 at 8:30 am

awesome list, you put it together very well 🙂 i got a Sony A6400 from amazon, it’s absolutely amazing, it really show in my vlogs.

16th December 2020 at 11:12 am

Thanks Kyle!

Charles Haskins says

29th April 2020 at 10:19 am

I have been reading through your responses to questions and I am astonished by the detail and the thoughtfulness of your answers. Quite apart from the photography info, it is a great lesson in human decency – great “customer service” for people who aren’t even customers really. I will definitely be following you in the future! Thank you!

29th April 2020 at 10:21 am

Hi Charlie,

Thanks very much, that’s kind of you to say. We do our best to try and answer everyone’s questions, be it photography or travel related 🙂 If folks have taken the time to read and leave a comment, then we feel it’s only right to answer if we can!

Thanks again for your comment, and don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions of your own!

All the best

29th February 2020 at 11:15 pm

I am quite new to photography. I purchased the M50 last summer (my first non-compact). I don’t know if it is my skills, the camera, or that I need better lenses, but so far I haven’t had much success getting sharp images.

1st March 2020 at 10:52 am

Sorry to hear about your issues. There are so many variables that go into what could make an image less sharp, from incorrect focus through to a lens issue. It’s hard to diagnose without seeing an image – do you have one somewhere online you can link to that I can take a look and provide some more insight? It would be best if it also shows the camera settings at the time – usually a site like flickr will save this info.

1st March 2020 at 4:27 pm

These aren’t all from the M50, but several of them are. Also, these happen to be the better ones: https://www.flickr.com/photos/me77777 . I feel like I have to sort through so many that aren’t as sharp as these to find a good one, but even some of the ones I’ve posted could certainly be sharper.

1st March 2020 at 4:41 pm

Thanks for sharing. So, some initial thoughts:

On this image of the lighthouse: https://www.flickr.com/photos/me77777/49596740501/in/photostream/

The camera is set to f/29. This is a super narrow aperture. Most lenses produce their sharpest images at around f/8, with sharpness falling off towards the edges wider than f/8 (i.e. f/5.6, f/4 etc). Above f/16, sharpness dramatically reduces due to an effect known as diffraction. It’s generally not advisable to go above f/16 for this reason. Performance will vary by lens, but as a general rule, f/8 – f/12 is a good range.

Of course, this doesn’t consider depth of field for composition. For landscapes, a wider depth of field is usually preferable, so you’d be looking at f/8 – f/16 in most cases. For portraits, a shallow depth of field would be preferable. Softness in portraits is less of an issue as you wouldn’t normally have the subject on the edge of the shot, so the softness wouldn’t be too noticeable.

Now, here’s another image of a church in a city: https://www.flickr.com/photos/me77777/49503917028/in/photostream/

So this was shot a 1/40th of a second at 200mm focal length. The longer the zoom, the harder it is to hold a camera steady. As a general rule of thumb, shutter speed should not be lower than the inverse of the focal length. So if you are shooting at 200mm, you would not use a shutter speed slower than 1/200th of a second. A 50mm focal length would be 1/50th of a second.

The file format you are shooting in will also make a difference. If you’re shooting in JPG, then the compression setting and sharpness setting in camera will make a big difference to the final image sharpness. Ideally you’d want to shoot in RAW, so you can edit sharpness after the fact.

These are just some ideas to start with. Something like this shot looks wonderfully sharp to me: https://www.flickr.com/photos/me77777/49498974486/in/photostream/

Happy to provide any more feedback if you have more specific images of course 🙂

https://www.flickr.com/photos/me77777/49503917028/in/photostream/

2nd March 2020 at 4:34 am

Thanks for taking the time to give feedback. You have an amazing site.

2nd March 2020 at 11:19 am

Thanks Craig – my pleasure 🙂

Natalie says

24th December 2019 at 1:05 pm

Thank you very much for collating all this information together- I do not feel nearly as overwhelmed as I did before!

I am going away travelling to India and South East Asia, and would like to both take great pictures in low light, and film a short documentary (so stability is also key without lugging a tripod around (Oof).

I am looking into purchasing a DSLR, budget however is a concern. This will be my first time camera, however I have a little experience in film cameras (mostly SonyPMW200).

I am currently looking at the Nikon D750…can you recommend something cheaper and still great for filming? I guess the Nikon D5300?

Nikon also seems to be cheaper for lenses than Canon- what would you reccomend?

Any suggestions would be great. Thanks so much

24th December 2019 at 2:53 pm

Hi Natalie,

Thanks very much!

So I have to be honest, video is not an area of expertise for me. However, if you want to shoot stable video without a tripod, you are going to need to think about how you are going to stabilize your camera. Without a tripod, your best bet is going to be some kind of camera stabilization. Currently, the Canon and Nikon DSLR’s don’t offer this in camera, so you would need to rely on a lens with image stabilization built in.

Alternatively, you could look for a camera with image stabilization built in. I’m not sure what your budget is all in, but one of the micro four thirds cameras from Olympus or Panasonic might be a good option. These are notable for producing great video, have a wide choice of lenses, and most importantly, have built in image-stabilization in the camera body. The Olympus Om-D E-M10 Mark 3 is currently on sale all over the place with a lens. For video and low light, you will benefit from a wide aperture prime lens, such as the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 .

I appreciate this might not be the answer you were looking for, but if video is important, I think this might be a better direction to go in than a DSLR. All the capabilities are the same, the only disadvantages are a reduced battery life and a slightly smaller sensor. However, by using a wide aperture lens you can make up for the reduced low light performance.

I hope this helps – I’m happy to discuss further of course!

20th December 2019 at 1:17 am

Sorry I visited your site but couldn’t read a thing. Please fix the site. Best regards

20th December 2019 at 10:46 am

Thanks for your comment. Could you clarify perhaps what you couldn’t read and what i need to fix? The site loads ok on all our devices, but if you can let me know what device and browser you are using, and what specifically is not working, then I will be happy to take a look,

Martha Dobson says

3rd November 2021 at 4:02 pm

Website was beautiful, I think that this man is lying to you about the website not being legible.

3rd November 2021 at 6:07 pm

Thanks Martha!

Marije says

17th December 2019 at 8:47 am

Hi Laurence,

Thank you so much for this very insight- and helpful review. I’m looking to buy a compact camera with good optical zoom possibilities for photographing people, landscapes and wildlife during my holidays. As I’ll be visiting Swedish Lapland for a week of winterfun, I would like a camera that will also be Able to capture the northern light (autora). Which compact camera will be a good or even the best choice. Was Leaning towards a Sony Cybershot DSC-RX 100 series but found vi and vii quite expensive anD not shure about optical zoom of v. Love to hear your opinion.

17th December 2019 at 9:14 pm

So I would say probably the next best option after the RX100 would be the Panasonic Lumix ZS100 or ZS200. The Canon Powershot G3X is another good option as it has a 1 inch sensor and a 25x zoom lens. I have to say, northern lights photography is a challenge for any camera though, even a full frame DSLR. So while you will definitely be able to get photos with a compact camera, just be aware of its limitations. I have some tips on taking taking photos of the northern lights here , which might be worth a read.

Otherwise, let me know if you have any more questions – and have a great trip!

22nd October 2019 at 8:36 am

How about the Panasonic G90/95? It has all bells and whistles of GX9 and much more (like UHS-II support, stronger IS and focus stacking). It has a comfortable grip and a rugged body, a swivel touch screen, unlimited video shooting, mic and headphones port (hello vloggers!). Similar to GX9 it can be charged via usb but comes with an external charger and both can be charged via a powerbank with 2 ports! I’m almost happy with my gx9 but miss the weather sealing and the mic port. If Pana doesn’t release a gx10 with these 2 features I’ll go for the G90.

24th October 2019 at 12:51 pm

The G90/95 is certainly an excellent camera, although is at a bit of a price premium compared to the GX9 so isn’t directly comparable in my mind. However, if it fits what you are looking for you should definitely go for it – this list is by no means definitive (hence the long section at the beginning to help people decide).

Enjoy your new camera, whatever it turns out to be!

lalan kalansooriya says

15th September 2019 at 12:36 pm

Hi I am bigginer to the photography and i wish to buy a camera. I love to travel photography. My budjet is about 300$. So I would like to know what are the recomended cameras for me

15th September 2019 at 2:25 pm

At $300 you will definitely be looking at either a mid-range compact camera or a lower end DSLR. There aren’t many mirrorless cameras at that price point unfortunately, unless you go second hand. In terms of compact cameras, I’d suggest either the Lumix DC-ZS70 or the Sony RX100 .

For DSLRs, consider the Nikon D3400 or the EOS Rebel T6 .

10th August 2019 at 8:23 am

Hi Laurence and Jessica, Just a quick thank you message to say that this is the first article I read (and I ‘ve read quite a few!) that really explains things about cameras in a clear way! Im new to travel photography and was looking for info on how and where to start from. Thanks a lot!

11th August 2019 at 11:38 am

Our pleasure! We’re always happy to hear that we’ve been able to help people, and believe me, I know that photography is not the easiest topic to get to grips with 🙂 Let us know if you ever have any questions!

Stuart Svoboda says

21st July 2019 at 6:03 pm

Thanks for your thoughtful and comprehensive advice. Obviously, budget plays a big role in most people’s decisions and there are few aspects of photography that don’t involve some compromise. However, for those who are willing to part with a bit more cash in pursuit of a supremely capable yet practical alternative, you missed at least one significant choice and that’s the Lumix G9. My G9, battery grip, lenses (mostly Leica, covering the 35mm-eq range from 16-800mm), spare batteries, flash/soft box, filters, etc. (including an Olympus TG-5, which I agree is a great, bomb-proof, go-anywhere camera) all fit into a small pack that weighs 6400) ISO noise with moving subjects. Big deal (looks more like film anyway). A much more compact (although not pocket-sized) and far cheaper alternative that still produces great IQ (stills and 4K video–much better than a 1/2.3) is the Lumix FZ1000. The first-gen (which I got for c.US$600) is still available and a great bargain (IMHO, the best price/performance value currently available). The Mk II adds some nice features but has the same great 1″ sensor and 25-400mm-eq Leica lens. If you can’t get great images under most conditions with that, it’s not the camera… And no, I don’t work for Panny–they just make great cameras (performance and ergonomics). Bottom line: the IQ achievable in most conditions from even “mid level” cameras these days is more than enough for most purposes–much beyond that is overkill (but some of us like overkill on occasion).

Thanks for your blog.

21st July 2019 at 6:32 pm

Thanks Stuart! We also like the Panasonic gear, I’ve had a G6 and still use the GX8 on a regular basis. There just wasn’t room for every camera on the list, but we certainly appreciate your recommendation and no doubt folks reading the post will find your input useful as well 🙂

Sandra says

11th July 2019 at 7:50 pm

Thanks for such a great article! I am wondering what you think of the new Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II which was announced July 9th and is due in stores August 1st. How do you think it compares to others in your compact camera list? I am taking a 3-week trip to China in September and want a great travel camera. Looked at the Sony RX100 VI but it felt very small in my 73-year-old hands and I missed it not having a grip. I am replacing a very old Canon G16. Thanks for any input you can share!

12th July 2019 at 4:19 am

I’ve been reading up on these two cameras and they both look very promising. I would say that they would probably be excellent, but I’ve not been able to personally try them out as yet. However, if you are used to Canon, it would be a logical step to buy one of these two, and I am confident you will be happy with the performance. I’ll be updating this post in the near future, but likely after your trip. In the meantime though, I am still happy to recommend them on spec as the price / specifications are great.

Candy Luong says

24th June 2019 at 8:45 pm

Thank you for the well-written review! I am on the market to purchase an upgrade from a 2011 Canon Rebel T3i with a couple of EF lens. I am conflicted between upgrading to a DSLR or mirrorless camera for travel and leisure photography. What I look for in an upgrade is WIFI, GPS, lightweight, adaptability to the canon lens, and does not break the bank (max $1500) for a full kit. Is there a mirrorless camera that has a proven adapter for canon lens? I’ve looked into the Canon EOS RP but the price point for a full kit is insanely expensive. What would you recommend?

25th June 2019 at 1:38 am

So the Canon EOS RP would be my recommendation – with the adaptor the body only should come in under your budget, and it will work great with the Canon lenses you have. If you move to another manufacturer, I think you will struggle to get a full frame camera for any less money, and the adaptors are not so good as they have to do a conversion between the electronic systems, which usually results in slower performance. The only thing missing from the EOS R is built in GPS, however the low energy bluetooth capabilities mean you can sync GPS from your phone without too much battery drain.

If it’s still too much, you might consider a second hand Canon 6D or 6D Mark 2, which are both great cameras. I still shoot full time with the original 6D and have no complaints. GPS is one of my favourite features on it, and I wish more cameras had it as a default!

I hope this helps!

Kathy Golden says

17th June 2019 at 11:27 pm

I just happened upon your website while researching DSLR cameras and I found a treasure-trove of information! Thank you so much for this thorough and informative blog. It is very helpful. I hope to compare mirrorless and DSLRs for both travel and “family” photography.

19th June 2019 at 4:18 pm

My pleasure, let me know if you have any questions!

6th June 2019 at 11:50 am

Really found this article useful – thanks!

Soon, I am quitting my job and going travelling for the ‘foreseeable future’ – yay fun!

I love taking pictures generally (e.g., smartphones or on friends cameras). But knowing I am going travelling, I would love to capture some great quality shots and edit them myself etc along the way. Although a ‘first purchase’, I need it to be high quality so that it is worthwhile over a smartphone, worth the financial investment, and worth carrying around. I am very likely to take a look into some of your courses too before I go (so that I actually CAN capture some good moments) – with this in mind, what would you recommend?

Many thanks in advance!! Flo

6th June 2019 at 12:02 pm

My pleasure! So it will depend on how much you want to carry with you. If it’s a minimal amount, then you’d be better off with a high end point and shoot, like the Lumix ZS200 or the Sony RX100 series. These both take excellent photos, have full manual controls and even shoot in RAW.

If you want to step up above that there are many choices. For travel, I’d recommend probably a mirrorless camera to keep the weight down, paired with one or two lenses. At this point it will come down to your budget – all the mirrorless cameras on this list will do a great job, but they are at different price points, starting with less expensive and then getting more expensive! At the higher end, I’d suggest perhaps the Canon EOS RP, whilst at the lower end, the Sony a6000 or Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III.

Let me know if I can help any more 🙂

6th June 2019 at 7:32 am

Hi thank you for such wonderful tips. Im no expert. I would really appreciate some guidance. I own iphone x and photos are great. But for travel I d also need a solid zoom for vast landscapes. I ve been looking into Panasonic, I like idea of Leica lens… what I d like is what can i get up to 1000 usd ( preferabbly less) that would make sense to get better photography then iphone x, a good zoom and still a nice looking not too big camera. Thank you 🙂

6th June 2019 at 11:40 am

So based on your requirements for a smaller camera, I’d say either the Sony RX 100 VI or the Lumix ZS200. They both offer a good zoom range and good image quality, as well as manual controls.

You could look into mirrorless cameras too, but to get a good zoom you’d need a larger lens, and it wouldn’t be so compact!

Let me know if you need any more information, I’m happy to help 🙂

12th May 2019 at 10:46 am

Hi .. I am a Nikon d5300 (with two lenses 18-55mm and 55-200mm lenses) user and I need to buy a compact camera with dslr quality lesser in weight .. please suggest

12th May 2019 at 7:16 pm

So if you want something really compact then the Sony RX100 range is a good option. The quality is great for a compact camera, and you also get full manual controls. If you just want something a bit smaller, then you might consider one of the mirrorless options, but they aren’t always a lot smaller, so a compact is likely to be a better option.

Thomas Mygind says

1st June 2019 at 7:38 am

If you want the smallest Full Frame option – then this basis option weighs 450 gram + EF-lenses. Cannon M100 + Viltrox 0.71x adapter makes your APS-C into a full frame eqvivalent.

Then add any EF-lens you like -for example: Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L USM Lens 33.5 oz (950g) 3.3 x 4.9″ (83 x 124mm) 77mm 2002 Canon EF 24-85mm f/3.5-4.5 USM Lens 13.4 oz (380g) 2.9 x 2.8″ (73 x 70mm) 67mm 1996 Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L IS USM Lens 23.7 oz (670g) 3.3 x 4.2″ (83.5 x 107mm) 77mm 2005 Canon EF 28-105mm f/3.5-4.5 II USM Lens 13.2 oz (375g) 2.8 x 3.0″ (72 x 75mm) 58mm 2000 Canon EF 28-105mm f/4.0-5.6 USM Lens 7.4 oz (210g) 2.6 x 2.7″ (67 x 68mm) 58mm 2002 Canon EF 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM Lens 19.1 oz (540g) 3.1 x 3.8″ (78 x 97mm) 72mm 1998 Canon EF 28-200mm f/3.5-5.6 USM Lens 17.6 oz (500g) 3.1 x 3.5″ (78 x 90mm) 72mm 2000

9th May 2019 at 11:20 am

Hi, I’m relatively new to serious photography, but I’ve long had an interest in photo editing and am now wanting to learn more about the actual photography part of it. As it is, you’ve pretty much sold me on the Nikon D3500 since it sounds like an excellent option to learn from without being too expensive, though I’m also considering the D5300 for its video capabilities (from what I’ve found) and the GPS option. Can you recommend a few additional lenses, ideally at least one for further away shots? Particularly for some darker areas.

Whatever the case, this guide has taught me quite a bit and given me a lot to think about. Thank you for that.

11th May 2019 at 9:03 pm

Delighted to have been of assistance. So my first recommendation would be to check out our guide to the best travel lenses, which has a number of options for Nikon. You can see that here:

https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/best-lenses-for-travel-photography/

The criteria you have (long lens that is good in low light) does unfortunately bring you into the more costly type of lens – you need a wide aperture to capture more light, and all the glass ends up costing more. I’d suggest looking for a lens with a f/4 or faster aperture (f/2.8 would be ideal), and 200mm to 400mm focal length.

Happy to provide some more specific suggestions if my linked post doesn’t do it for you 🙂

13th May 2019 at 9:39 am

Hey Laurence,

You make a compelling point, as did the price tags once I looked into what you suggested. I’ll add that to my “eventual” list once I’ve gotten good enough to justify the cash.

I ordered a D3500 bundle “w/AF-P DX 18-55mm & 70-300mm Zoom Lens” and “55mm Wide Angle & Telephoto Lens”. Seemed like a fair way to start (though I wish I’d have ordered it a few hours prior because I missed a nice sale, haha).

I’m keeping this page bookmarked, there’s so much to learn and I appreciate the help. I had to check out your guide on San Francisco since that’s part of why I wanted a new camera: I’m taking a trip up that way later this year and am planning on making the most of it – I live in California, but I’ve never spent much time that way since it gets expensive fast – including a few museums, Grace Cathedral, Chinatown, and several other areas. Now I’ve just got to practice a lot in the next 3 1/2 months so that I can manage something awesome by then.

Thanks again, this has been incredibly helpful.

13th May 2019 at 6:34 pm

It’s absolutely my pleasure, and please do reach out if you ever have any more questions about photography or travel, and I’ll do my best to help out. Enjoy your new gear, I’m sure you’ll be very happy with it!

4th May 2019 at 10:06 pm

Great website!

I will be going to Europe this summer and I intend to take many HDR pics. I currently have a Nikon D3400. (I prefer the APS-C cameras to the full frame cameras because I like the lighter weight, especially for travel.). I like the camera except for the fact that it has no exposure bracketing at all. This makes HDR photography, especially of tourist sites that might have people walking in the distance, slightly difficult. My question is: Should I take the D3400 to Europe or purchase the latest Canon Rebel, with which I can do 3 quick shots continuously?

Please consider: I have compared my Nikon to my old Canon T3i. Using the same settings for both, the Nikon seems to take better pictures when I compare the exact same shots side by side. Is that just my imagination or is that due to the very slightly larger sensor?

So, again, the choice is: 1) take the Nikon, which seems to take good pics, and be forced to take all my HDR shots manually? (The advantage there is that I could take 5 or more.); OR 2) buy a new Canon T7 or T7i and be able to take 3 quick shots at different exposures? (I don’t mind the extra cost if you find it is the best choice.)

I would appreciate any advice you can provide.

Thank you very much for your time and consideration to this matter.

5th May 2019 at 9:48 am

Thanks! So the sensor size probably doesn’t make that much difference, but the sensor technology likely will. The T3i was released in 2011, and it’s hard to really compare that against a much newer camera, as sensor technology moves on every year. I would say that the newer Canon would likely be comparable. It’s definitely frustrating that the Nikon cameras in the D3xxx range don’t have exposure bracketing, that’s a real omission by Nikon. I would say that if this is something that is important to you, and you don’t have a wide selection of Nikon lenses, that you might find the Canon more suited to your specific needs. I also can’t speak for the T7i, but on my Canon 6D, I can set it to take 3 or 5 shots for the exposure bracketing 🙂

Best of luck, and have a great trip!

22nd April 2019 at 7:03 am

Thank you for your great article. It is well-written and informative. I notice in your picture comparing sensor size, that Nikon’s aps-c is larger than the Canon aps-c. Is Nikon’s significantly better than Canon’s in terms of the final picture? What is the measurable difference between the two, in terms of pixels and/or quality? Should I base my decision on that? Thanks again

22nd April 2019 at 10:30 am

There is not a big difference between the two to be honest, the small size difference is not big enough to make a real world difference in my opinion, certainly not enough to make a purchase decision on 🙂

Mohit Chupra says

21st April 2019 at 9:57 am

Hi , after read the content i understand that there a lot of good value entry -level DSLR cammers .

21st April 2019 at 11:22 am

That is correct, DSLR cameras are great value for sure 🙂

20th April 2019 at 2:27 pm

Hi, I currently have galaxy s10 and thinking of buying Famon g7x for travelling. The main purpose of the trip is the northern lights. Would g7x worth buying? Or would s10 do the trick? Thanks

20th April 2019 at 3:25 pm

So the Canon G7x does have a larger sensor than a smartphone, and will therefore be better for northern lights photography. Smartphones are capable of taking pictures of the northern lights, but they won’t produce the best results. Either way, you will definitely want a tripod as otherwise you will get blurry pictures. I have a full guide to taking pictures of the northern lights you might want to check out too.

Let me know if you have any questions!

Sanjeev Rai says

12th April 2019 at 7:34 pm

I am going on a family trip to Europe covering Italy Switzerland and Paris . Looking into various videos of gopro I am inclined to buy go pro but not sure how much I will utilize as I am not into adventure sports. Although I feel a good family video covering mountains and beach will be cool. Also thinking of buying Nikon D3500 or May be both . Totally confused . I am not a photography enthusiast but regularly travel and wants to keep memories of my trips . Pleas guide

12th April 2019 at 7:44 pm

Hey Sanjeev,

So a GoPro is good as a general point and shoot action camera that will survive most situations. It’s also great for video. However, it has limitations – you can’t zoom, and it takes very wide angle photos. So things will seem further away. This is great for action sports and so on, but not really ideal for landscape photography.

If you want something pocketable that does great quality, I’d probably suggest one of the compact cameras on our list, or a mirrorless cameras. Most of these also do good video as well 🙂

Sanjeev says

13th April 2019 at 11:50 am

Thanks Laurence

I have budget of USD 500 . Will see which one fits the budget. Also may be GOPro + IPhone 7

13th April 2019 at 2:18 pm

Best of luck 😀

7th April 2019 at 7:18 pm

Hi – I’ve been a portrait photographer for too many years to say 🙂 and have always used Canon. At the moment we have 2 5d mark iii and one 7d at the studio with multiple lenses. I have finally made a decision to follow my passion and start traveling to shoot more landscapes and small towns. Weight is the biggest issue for me, however, quality of camera and lens is too. I’ll be headed for Europe then Asia this fall so I have some time but I’m trying to figure it out now. Any advice would greatly be appreciated.

7th April 2019 at 7:27 pm

Ah, the old conundrum – weight vs quality! Personally, we travel with a pair of Canon 6D’s and usually three lenses, a wide angle, a 70-200 (plus 2x convertor for wildlife) and a fast prime.

The key is a good strap for the camera (we love the Peak Design straps) and a good bag.

If I was you, and used to the Canon system (which I am), I would stay with it. I’d probably also suggest sticking with full frame. If size is the predominant issue, mirrorless cameras can help a bit, but not as much as folks might make out, because often so much of the weight is in the lens anyway.

I would probably be tempted by the Canon EOS RP. It’s a full frame mirrorless camera that, with a mount, will be compatible with all your EF (and even EF-S) lenses. It’s very compact for a full frame mirrorless camera.

If you want to just start over, and don’t mind investing in new lenses, then I might suggest something like the Fuji X-T30, which produces really lovely images. My only concern with shifting to a new system is that Canon is really great and colour, and other camera systems may not be as good as you used to (this is a reason many photographers I know have not shifted to the Sony mirrorless system for example).

I hope this response helps a bit! Let me know your thoughts 🙂

7th April 2019 at 10:04 pm

Hi Laurence, Thank you for your quick reply. I agree about the Sony, as we are so invested in all Canon lenses it makes it hard to change. I have, however, been very interested in the mirrorless camera and now with Canon’s out I have contemplated it but don’t see it being so much better than the 5diii except of course the weight, (which is what I need) I also worry that the battery doesn’t last long and even if I use an attachment won’t it slow down my lens? Deb

7th April 2019 at 11:38 pm

Canon has designed the mount adaptor so it just works like a passthrough. There’s no impact on the lenses. I know this has been an issue with other systems, like using the Canon lenses on Sony cameras, you lose autofocus speed and sometimes stops of light, but Canon didn’t want that to happen so the lenses should work just as well as if they are native.

To be honest, the performance won’t be massively improved over the 5D Mark III which is a great camera. If you are happy travelling with that, then go for it. But if size is a consideration, I’d say it’s the best option that would also let you use your existing lenses.

Carrie says

4th April 2019 at 9:16 pm

Thanks for the reply.

It’s a little difficult for me to describe how looking through a viewfinder on a non-DSLR camera affects my eyes. For many photos I prefer using the viewfinder, but for other photos I really like having the articulated screen.

I’m leaning toward the Canon EOS Rebel SL2 or one of the Nikon’s with an articulated screen (the good thing about a Nikon is my boyfriend has Nikon cameras and we might be able to share lenses). It’s just a matter of finding the right Nikon.

5th April 2019 at 12:04 pm

My pleasure. So it sounds like a DSLR is the right kind of camera for you. I would definitely recommend Nikon if your boyfriend has Nikon already, as this will save you the hassle of multiple lenses. When Jess and I got together, she had Nikon and I had Canon, and we just decided we’d merge everything to Canon to make life easier.

In terms of cameras, the Nikon D5600 is probably the best option as it comes with the tilting screen. You could also pick up the D5500 for a lower price if budget is a concern.

3rd April 2019 at 10:09 pm

The current camera I’m using is a Nikon B700, which I like for its small size, articulated screen, and super-zoom. However, the image quality seems to have deteriorated a lot in the two years I’ve had it and I now am having issues with using the viewfinder (my dry eyes are making it difficult to see what I’m trying to focus on because I’m looking at a tiny screen). So I think it’s time to switch to a DSLR or mirrorless camera. Mirrorless might be better because of the smaller size, but having never used one I don’t know how my eyes will handle it.

Any recommendations for a good, smaller DSLR or mirrorless with a good zoom and an articulated screen? My father has been using Panasonic Lumix cameras for years and has been very happy with his results.

4th April 2019 at 12:12 pm

So for DSLR and mirrorless cameras, these don’t come with a fixed lens, meaning you can change the lens to something that meets your requirements. However, there are not many lenses out there that would offer the sort of zoom you might be used to with the B700, that would also be smaller. So even if the camera body ends up being smaller, the overall package would be fairly large. Bridge cameras like the one you have are a fairly specific product and the main way they have been able to differentiate from all the other types of camera out there is by offering these pretty incredible zoom lenses.

I am a little confused though – the B700 has a screen, so I am wondering why you would not be using that for the focus? If the viewfinder is too small, this will be a similar problem with viewfinders on other cameras too I think.

I just don’t want to recommend a camera that doesn’t actually solve the problem!

2nd April 2019 at 6:52 pm

Hi, I have been looking into the Sony RX100 VÍ and the brand new Lumix FZ 1000 II. I want zoom, big sensor, tilting LCD, and low light capability. My only concern is size of the Lumix since my primary use will be for travel. Please help! What are your thoughts?

2nd April 2019 at 7:12 pm

So both cameras actually have the same size sensor, which is the 1″ sensor. The FZ1000 II definitely has more zoom, but it is much less compact. However, it also has a longer battery life and a tilting / swivel screen.

Personally if a compact camera is what you want, I would go for the Sony as it will slip into a pocket or purse. The Lumix definitely won’t. I don’t think image quality will be much different, although there are not many reviews on the FZ1000 II as it’s so new.

I hope this helps 🙂

2nd April 2019 at 7:24 pm

Thank you so much. It definitely helps.

Donna F. says

26th March 2019 at 1:43 am

This article is super! And, so is findingtheuniverse.com – I’ve learned so much as I am researching what camera to purchase. Any recommendations would be welcomed. I want a compact camera to travel with me on my motorcycle. It will need to endure a lot of vibration. I’d like for it to fit in a jacket pocket or tank bag. And, I’ll be taking pictures of landscapes, awesome views and interesting people.

26th March 2019 at 1:53 pm

Thanks very much Donna – delighted to be able to help!

So if you think the camera is going to be subjected to a pretty rough time, you might consider the Olympus TG-5 Waterproof Camera . It’s a good camera, although the 4x optical zoom, whilst good, may not be perfect for everything. It’s certainly the toughest camera in our list though.

If image quality and more zoom is more important, and you think you can trade off a bit of the survivability factor, I might consider either the Panasonic Lumix ZS100 or the Sony RX100 VI . These both have more manual controls as well as a larger image sensor, so the image quality will be higher. The Sony is at quite a premium price point though, so you would definitely want a good case to protect it!

I hope this helps a bit 🙂

Let me know if I can help out any further!

Nowshad Rahman says

24th March 2019 at 4:18 pm

I was looking for features the basic travel camera and this helped a lot. Thanks for the insightful article. Sony RX100 VI is good for travel?

24th March 2019 at 4:24 pm

It certainly is. It is definitely a premium compact camera, but the combination of image quality, manual controls, and the impressive zoom and autofocus performance make it probably the best compact camera for travel on the market today 🙂

Mallory J says

20th March 2019 at 4:42 am

Looking for some input… I have a Nikon D80. I used to do newborn photography some years ago. It worked fine for me then. Had my own kids, moved on in my career and on the side we travel a ton. The Nikon is clearly older and the whole set up is too heavy to travel with (I have 4 lenses total for it, however only use the my 24mm and 50mm. Rarely the 125 as I felt the quality was bad and never the telephoto that I bought with it. Anyhow, years later I know nothing about photography anymore and am looking for something other than my phone (iPhone xsmax). I want better, easier and more convenient than the D80. I like the blurry backgrounds (see I can’t even remember the correct terminology for this) and clear photos for nature and sports. My questions is, right off the bat, is there a camera that stands out? Do I go Nikon and continue to use my lenses and forgo the weight? Do I get something new, compact, same brand, different brand?

20th March 2019 at 10:22 am

Hi Mallory,

The word you are looking for is bokeh 😉

Ok, so this is a bit of a challenging question. SInce you already have lenses, my initial response would be to consider maybe the Nikon Z6 . Whilst this is pretty much identical in size to the D80, it’s a mirrorless camera with a full frame sensor, so you will be getting a marked step up in image quality and capability in a camera that is the same size. There’s also a Nikon adaptor so your existing lenses should work, although you’ll want to check compatibility. You should also find it easier to pick up as the menu system will be similar.

If size / cost is more of a consideration, then I think you would want to consider a mirrorless camera and look to invest in a couple of lenses. If you are happy with prime lenses then this is great because they tend to be cheaper and higher quality.

I’d say perhaps the Canon RP, or the Fujifilm X-T30 would be a great starting point, depending on budget 🙂

Happy to answer any follow up questions of course!

5th March 2019 at 9:33 am

Hi, thanks for you great article about various compact/travel cameras. I am planning to buy a new camera. I am trying to decide between Canon m50, Canon 200d, Nikon d5600 as well as Canon g3x. I live in humid area & that’s why I am concerned & also bit worried about that. I don’t have budget to buy expensive camera that have weather sealing. Canon g3x. does have weather sealing but then it have only 1 inch sensor (I do need camera which takes great quality images, video making is not my priority). Moreover, I also want to have a touchscreen. Kindly help me in this regard. Thanking you for the same

5th March 2019 at 12:09 pm

So based on your requirements and budget (I am assuming your budget based on the cameras you are looking at), I am going to suggest a totally different camera to those which you have been looking at.

My suggestion is either the Pentax KS-2, the Pentax K70 or the Pentax KP.

These are all APS-C sized sensor SLR camera which are weather sealed. They are also great value for a weather sealed camera.

The only disadvantage is that they do not come with touchscreens. I know this is something you want, but it might be a decision between weather sealing and a touchscreen at this price point. If the touchscreen is more important, I would suggest the Canon m50.

8th March 2019 at 11:35 am

Thanks for your reply. Kindly let me know why you suggested Canon m50 and also are mirrorless camera more sensitive to moisture/dust than DSLR? Thanks

8th March 2019 at 2:13 pm

So a mirrorless camera is more sensitive to dust than a DSLR. This is because there’s no mirror protecting the sensor, and every time you change lenses the sensor is exposed to the elements. In terms of moisture, I would not say there is a significant difference. A mirrorless camera has more electronic parts if you include the screen, so in theory more could go wrong, but I would say in the real world this isn’t likely to be a big issue.

I recommended the M50 as it’s a great compact mirrorless camera that is easy to use and produces quality results. However, a compact DSLR from Canon or Nikon would also be a good choice. Honestly, most cameras these days will take great photos in the right hands, the technology has come along very far. It’s just question of what has the specific specifications you need.

8th March 2019 at 2:26 pm

Thank you sooo much for your swift response. And thank you for clearing my doubts too. Actually I had almost decided to buy canon m50 but due to doubt about absence of mirror may make it more sensitive, I have narrowed down my choices to Nikon D5600 and Canon 200d. But still confused cause Nikon D5600 have 39 AF points whereas Canon 200d have just 9 and canon have dual pixal Autofocus. My priority is for stills. Kindly let me know if more Autofocus points are really that important. And please help me to decide between these two models. Thank you soo much for helping me out.

8th March 2019 at 7:49 pm

A lot of autofocus points can be useful if you are shooting fast action or wildlife photography. Otherwise it’s not too critical. I have a Canon 6D which is my primary camera, which I think has 9 autofocus points, and I’ve never found I needed more!

4th March 2019 at 8:24 pm

Hello, hope you’re doing well. I love your web page ❤️ I have some months suffering and searching information about a digital camera. I am interested for full frame & Mirrorless Camera for my work as a Aesthetician , and for travel also , I have considered Canon G7 X Mark II but im not pretty sure if it good for photography. Suggest me one good camera or good lenses for travel, fashion, makeup . Good bless you and thankful if you wanna respond

5th March 2019 at 3:03 pm

If you’re interested in a full frame mirrorless camera, I’d say that the Sony A7II would be a good option. The G7X Mark II is a lighter and more compact camera, but you can’t change the lenses, and it doesn’t have a full frame sensor.

Other options include the Canon EOS RP, Canon EOS R, Nikon Z series, and the more recent Sony A7 III, although this is somewhat more expensive now than the version 2.

For lenses, there’s a huge choice. I’d suggest a walk around lens for general travel photography, and then a fast prime lens for portrait work. A 50mm f/1.8 lens would be good for that. I have a guide to travel lenses you can see here:

Mick England says

3rd March 2019 at 3:53 pm

This may have been written before the D7500 came out as you state: “This is Nikon’s high end APS-C camera, with a 20.9MP sensor, fast autofocus, a weather sealed body, dual SD card slots and Wi-Fi.” In fact Nikon actually dropped the dual card slot that was present in the 7200 but the D7500 is nevertheless an excellent camera and I have never had a card fail on me.

3rd March 2019 at 4:05 pm

Hi Mick! Thanks for the catch 🙂 I’ve updated the description of the D7500. I too have never had an SD card fail on me in any camera, although I appreciate some folks like the peace of mind – especially for critical work like weddings and other event photography.

22nd February 2019 at 12:54 am

Hi, I have come across your website while I am searching for best travel camera. I am very limited knowledge about camera and planning to get my first ever camera. Thinking of getting either sony or canon. I am going to visit Euroup in 2 months and need travel camera for both photo and video capturing. May I request for your recommendation please? Thanks in advance ~

23rd February 2019 at 7:27 am

I would likely recommend a mirrorless camera like the EOS M100 as they are easy to pick up and use, and also easy to learn. However, I don’t know your budget – the M100 is at the low end of the budget (although it’s still a great choice). However, if you have more money to spend, there are other options too 🙂

12th February 2019 at 9:36 am

Hey there, I want to buy a travel system camera because my DSLR is just too heavy to carry around all the time. I‘m currently trying to decide between the sony a6000 and sony a63000. So far, from what i‘ve heard it seems like there‘s no big difference between the two cameras that justifies the much higher price of the newer model. However, since i‘m planning to go to south east asia, i‘m not sure how important it is for me to have a camera that‘s water and dust resistant (as the a6300 is). What‘s your experience? Is the a6000 likely to survive rainy season (pf course i‘m going to put my camera in the rain either way) or is worth investing 300€ more for that feature? Thank you!

12th February 2019 at 5:31 pm

I would probably lean towards the a6000 – it’s less costly, and weather sealing won’t make a camera waterproof unfortunately – you’re better off just trying to keep it dry 🙂 The a6300 is a decent camera, but I think for the price difference it’s not that much better.

Have a great trip!

11th February 2019 at 6:38 am

hi, thanks for your such informative blog. I am considering to purchase Fujifilm X-T20 with 18-55mm lens or Canon M50. And, my usage is more to photo shoots instead of video shoot.

I appreciate if you could give advise on this,

13th February 2019 at 9:17 pm

Both are excellent cameras, so it is hard to really decide between them. The Canon is slightly better for videos, and the Fuji might give slightly better photo performance, but the difference is very small. The main difference is the lens options – I would say there are more better value lenses for the Canon than the Fuji, but to be honest, both are really great cameras and I don’t think you will be disappointed with either choice!

Roxanne says

5th February 2019 at 6:58 am

What camera would you recommend for the following.. Indoor for a convention I will be attending Site seeing photos Novice photographer Selfies Price isn’t a deal breaker, so as long as it’s going to last me Captures my memories Ease of grab and shot Social posting Printing

Also considering a upgrade on cell too. To have both a camera and cell phone handy for just in case. I currently have a iPhone 7plus. But open to a smartphone that offers better photo capabilities.

Thanks in advance for your help!

5th February 2019 at 11:44 am

Hi Roxanne!

So the most challenging scene you’ll be looking at shooting will be the indoor scenes, which is where many cameras will struggle due to a lack of light.

If you wanted a capable smartphone, I currently use the Google Pixel 3 which is excellent for a wide range of shooting scenarios, including low light. I’ve not tried out the latest iPhone though.

In terms of a camera, for point and shoot I’d have to suggest either the ZS100 / ZS200, or one of the Sony RX100 options. However, the smaller sensor might not give the best results for indoor work.

So if you don’t mind a slightly bigger camera, I’d probably recommend the Fujifilm X-A5. This has a flipping screen for selfies, a large sensor that performs well in low light, and is still quite portable and easy to use.

I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any more questions 🙂

Ranjeet Kaur says

19th January 2019 at 6:47 pm

Hi guys, thanks so much for creating this page its an amazing read… i had a dslr camera for 10 years but it has now broken i also have a small canonn camera very small.brought in 2005 takes a card of 2gb but thats givent up as well. I i belive its time to up grade…. i use the camera for travling, gathering and amy social events. I also use it with work when i go and look at properties… so with this in mind im strugling to decide which camera to buy as i would like to get a small compact one…. what would you recommend?

19th January 2019 at 6:55 pm

Hi Ranjeet!

Our pleasure. So if it’s a small compact camera you are after, that is the section of the post to look at. We also have an expanded version of suggested compact cameras here . It’s hard to recommend without knowing your budget, but that page should give you lots more options!

4th January 2019 at 1:05 am

I’m hoping you can help as I am probably comparing apples to oranges. I’m looking for a travel camera for an amateur that is fairly compact, has an auto function, can take selfies, and takes bright, crisp pictures. Deciding between the Canon EOS M50 and the Sony RX100 iii. Any advice?

4th January 2019 at 9:47 am

Sure thing! So the RX100 will be more compact than the M50, but my personal preference would be the M50. It has a larger sensor, meaning images will be higher quality in a variety of shooting situations, has the full auto function, and also has a fully articulating screen for selfies. So that would be my preference of the two.

Another option is the EOS M100, which is a bit smaller, but has similar features. It’s also less expensive. It might be a good balance between the two options 🙂

26th December 2018 at 9:41 pm

What would your opinion be with getting the 200d with a 35mm prime and an ultrwide zoom? Do you have any suggestions as to which lenses I should look at? Total budget would only be around 700 I think at this stage. It would be used for travelling (cities and mountains) as well as a little bit of filming in the woods, but this is very much a secondary use

Many thanks

26th December 2018 at 10:01 pm

So that would be a great combination. Assuming a total budget of $700 to include the 200d, which is around $400 body only, then my suggestion would be the Canon 10-18 ultrawide angle , and the Canon 50mm f/1.8 , which is an amazing lens for the price.

That will take you to $794 all in, which is pretty decent for what you are getting 🙂

26th December 2018 at 10:06 pm

Sounds just about perfect, thanks for the speedy reply

If I remember I’ll try to post how I get on with them, such a good thread I’ll probably have a read over in a few months again XD

Thanks for the help, Flo

26th December 2018 at 10:17 pm

My pleasure 🙂 I’d love to hear how that combination works for you, so do pop back and let me know 🙂

We keep this post up to date as newer models come along, we also have a guide to travel lenses if you want another post to read 🙂 https://www.findingtheuniverse.com/best-lenses-for-travel-photography/

Have a wonderful 2019!

26th December 2018 at 7:23 am

Thanks for your article, it was really helpful. I was already considering the Nikon D3500 with an 18- 140mm lens as an alround in-expensive travel camera for an upcoming trip where we really only want to travel with the bare minimum. We can get this as a kit lens in Aus. However, I was wondering about the comparison between the D3500 and the D5600 with the 18-140 mm which is also available as a kit?

26th December 2018 at 11:09 am

Hi Helen, and thanks!

So there is not a great deal of difference between the two. They have pretty much the same specification, the main difference is that the D5600 has a moveable touchscreen and the D3500 has a fixed, non touch-screen. The D5600 is a bit heavier too, but they are otherwise dimensionally identical.

So really it comes down to whether or not the moving touchscreen is something you would want, as otherwise these two cameras are pretty much identical.

Hope this helps!

valina1981 says

11th December 2018 at 6:03 am

Absolutely love this post! Thank you. I’ve spent the last few weeks drowning in information and agonizing over which camera will be the best for me. As a complete beginner who wants to capture great images but wouldn’t have the slightest idea where to start with changeable lens this guide is ideal. Thank you

11th December 2018 at 10:06 am

My pleasure!

9th December 2018 at 7:21 am

I found this very helpful and an now as subscriber. I was going to sign up for your course, but got confused (my constant state) when I was about to pay and was greeted by a different instructor (‘Nomatic” Matt, or something like that). I now have a little over and hour experience reading your material and felt there was a good match, so didn’t sign up with Matt, if that is what I was doing. May be I missed something. Please let me know if you are in fact the instructor. Thanks

9th December 2018 at 10:31 am

Sorry about that confusion, I should probably try to make it clearer. So the course that you are talking about is my course, I wrote the whole thing, and all the homework / feedback comes to me. The course is just hosted at the Nomadic Matt site as he has a number of courses that compliment each other, plus it means I don’t have to worry about server hosting and the technology of the course – I just run it 🙂

But yes, that’s the one to sign up for to get to me 🙂

9th December 2018 at 5:06 pm

Thanks for the quick response and clarification. I will be signing up.

9th December 2018 at 7:11 pm

Thanks Steve, looking forward to helping you out 😀

Shirzad says

27th November 2018 at 1:13 am

You are a star!! Thank you, very informative.

27th November 2018 at 11:21 am

My pleasure! let us know which one you chose 🙂

David Stepenberg says

19th November 2018 at 1:56 am

Outstanding publication that was informative and easily understood. I appreciate your sharing your experience and expertise.

I’m interested in a digital camera that produces extremely high quality photos for canvas enlargement, has a large sensor, image stabilization, and is compatible with a high quality long range zoom lense. Based on this publication I’m assuming a DSLR is best, but I’m not sure which one and would appreciate your feedback.

19th November 2018 at 10:13 am

Thanks very much 🙂

So based on your requirements, you’d be looking at a fairly high end camera. You have a few options, depending on your budget:

The Canon 5D Mark IV The Sony A7r III The Nikon D850

These are all roughly the same price. For your specific needs, I would probably lean towards the Sony a7 rIII, which is a mirrorless full frame camera, with in body image stabilization and a high megapixel sensor which means you’ll be able to get those high quality images you’re after.

The 5D is a great camera, but the sensor doesn’t have so many megapixels. The Nikon is also excellent, with a fantastic (Sony made) sensor, but has no in body stablization.

Of course, both Nikon and Canon offer stabilised lenses, so you can get the same effect with a lens.

I hope this helps. There are other options at lower (and higher!) budgets, but this would me my starting point without knowing your exact budget 🙂

26th October 2018 at 4:13 pm

Nice article..! Any reason to choose D3300 over D3400?

26th October 2018 at 6:07 pm

In terms of the cameras under $500, I wanted to pick a great value camera, and the D3300 certainly fits that bill, especially since the D3400 and D3500 have since been released. However, if you have the budget, the newer models are definitely worth checking out 🙂

17th October 2018 at 9:22 pm

I feel you are missing a well known and loved travel camera. The Ricoh GR &/or GRii essentially the same, is ultra light, a somewhat fast 2.8 for low light, no AA filter that delivers sharp images and can be found used $350 or brand new $600. Yes, it has a fixed 28mm lens but it’s also so sharp with an aps-c sensor That cropping into a RAW image is still sharp after digital processing. Not the fastest auto focus but for those who focus on setting up their image or are patient for the scene to develop, it’s sufficient.

Great blog. Thanks for the work.

18th October 2018 at 5:43 pm

Thanks very much! There are a lot of great cameras out there for sure, and thanks for recommending your favourite. Hopefully someone finds your recommendation useful 😀

7th October 2018 at 2:10 pm

Absolutely brill article thankyou! I have a question for you . . . Im a land artist in the UK and currently looking to invest in a camera to capture my artwork. Been using a samsung galaxy phone up till now but seriously need to upgrade as Im being asked for large prints! Im good with light and composition but have very little tech knowledge! So looking for the smallest simplest camera that is not a phone! that shoots in RAW for high quality large prints that I can carry easily and not have to think about! Ive been looking at the Sony RX100 V and wondering if the image quality will be good enough . . friends saying Sony Alpha series is better! Help! Getting confused with so much choice! Would really appreciate your opinion or advice :)) *artwork ranges from small macro creations to much larger woodland or river work

10th October 2018 at 4:59 pm

So for something small the shoots in RAW, a higher end point and shoot should work fine for your specific needs 🙂 The Alpha series from Sony is a great choice too, but they are certainly bigger than a point and shoot, and also a bit more complicated to use. So I would advise something like the Panasonic or Sony in this post. We also have a more comprehensive Point and shoot camera guide here with even more choices 🙂 https://independenttravelcats.com/best-compact-camera-travel-point-and-shoot-cameras/

Let me know if you have any more questions!

Cecilia Lawrence says

11th September 2018 at 1:22 am

Hi there! Thank you for taking the time to write up this list! I was wondering if you could give me some camera recommendations. I’m an amateur photographer and I mostly use my camera for taking interior photos (like architecture or portraits) for art references. The things I’m looking for are:

1.) Long battery life (when traveling) 2.) Under $500 3.) Good in low-light settings

I’m trying to find either a good point-and-shoot or a mirrorless camera that fits in my budget. I was told that the Canon Rebel t6 is a good DSLR for what I’m looking for, but I’m wondering if it might not be a little too cumbersome when traveling. Any suggestions?

11th September 2018 at 10:34 am

Hi Cecilia!

My pleasure. So, your wishlist is quite a challenge I have to be honest 🙂

For a long battery life, your best option is going to be a DSLR, as mirrorless cameras use up more battery due to not having an optical viewfinder, which means you always need to be powering a screen.

Low light is the hardest environment for a camera to work in. My suggestion for the type of photography you are wanting to do would be to invest in a tripod, which can help get around some of the challenges of shooting in low light by letting you use longer exposures.

My suggestion would be perhaps the Canon M100 . This has the same sensor has the Canon DSLR cameras, but is in a smaller body, so it is quite compact. It comes in under budget including a lens. The only issue is that the battery life is not going to be as good as a DSLR.

let me know how that sounds!

11th September 2018 at 6:06 pm

Thank you so much for your quick response! This camera looks perfect–exactly what I was looking for. Thank you again!

11th September 2018 at 6:09 pm

My pleasure Cecilia 🙂 You inspired me to add it to the post as well, I think it’s an excellent option at this price point 🙂

Prashanth says

31st August 2018 at 9:17 am

Hello, thank you for an excellent article. I’ve got a tough one for you – my trusty Panasonic FZ300 has checked itself out after three terrific years. I can’t seem to find anything else that matches its set of amazing features. Can you help? Thanks!!

31st August 2018 at 10:31 am

Hi Prashanth,

I think the logical replacement would be the new Panasonic FZ330, which seems to have a similar set of features and upgraded technology 🙂

1st September 2018 at 6:00 am

Oh wow Laurence, thank you! I can’t believe I wasn’t able to find it myself. I kept searching for “FZ300 successor” but apart from a few forum postings on what a potential successor should look like, I only saw pages from four years ago that declared that the FZ300 was a successor to the FZ200! I noticed that you don’t have a section for bridge cameras on your blog – from my own experience, I found the FZ300 the most versatile cam I’ve used. I go on an annual 5500+ meter trek (Kailash Manasarovar yatra if you’re interested), and I’ve really put the weather sealing capabilities of the FZ300 to the ultimate test! The ultrazoom really comes in handy on the trek (to scope out far away features or wildlife) and the insane feature set (from 4 years ago!) – 4k video, timelapse, wifi, multiple zoom controls, touchscreen, etc. make this camera an absolute treat to use. If at all anything could be improved, it would be the sensor, because it isn’t good at all in low light (thats when the RX100 comes out of my pocket ;-)). I look forward to checking the FZ330 out – thanks again!

1st September 2018 at 6:04 am

Oops! I had just replied to your comment Laurence, but I’m afraid the FZ300 and the FZ330 are exactly the same 🙁 “There is no functional difference as far as I know. It is a brand / labeling thing. The FZ330 IS the FZ300.”

1st September 2018 at 10:54 am

You are right! I am so sorry, I just found that and figured it must be the latest version of it as that’s what Panasonic has on their website. They don’t seem to have anything newer with the same sort of features, and I can’t find anything else that is the same sort of bridge design with the same feature set. The FZ300 / 330 seems to still be the only option. So I’m not sure if you’ve considered just buying another one?

You are definitely correct that this guide is currently missing bridge cameras, the only reason being I don’t have personal experience with them so it’s hard for me to give good advice!

2nd April 2019 at 7:07 pm

Hi again Prashanth!

A bit of a delay, but I thought you’d be interested in the recently launched FZ-1000 II. It doesn’t have quite the zoom of the FZ330, but the sensor is both bigger and has higher megapixels, so when you crop the image you will likely end up with the same results. It’s also somewhat more expensive. But in case you were still looking, I thought you’d like to know 🙂

2nd August 2018 at 7:15 am

Thank you so so much for this. This helped me so much

2nd August 2018 at 10:00 am

My pleasure Rachel 😀

Techwhippet.com says

23rd May 2018 at 3:55 pm

Hi findingtheuniverse, This article is very much helpful. But still I have question on it should I ask here ?

23rd May 2018 at 7:36 pm

If you have a question you are welcome to ask it 🙂

nick esposito says

16th March 2018 at 4:23 pm

6D II has a swivel screen and a touchscreen..your info is wrong in the article.

16th March 2018 at 4:29 pm

Thanks Nick – I’ve fixed that in the article 🙂

Gezina Uys says

21st February 2018 at 12:59 pm

I have been looking for a travel camera for a long time now, but not one can can do everything I want it to do. 1. It must be lighter than my Canon EOS . 2. Must take superb photo’s because I print a lot and enlarge them. 3. Large sensor. 4. Good optical zoom lens. 5. Image stabilization. 6. Build in flash with range more than 10m. 7. Megapixels – more than 20.

Please advice me what to buy. I go on a holiday in August and must have the camera by then. My Canon is just to heavy to carry around.

21st February 2018 at 1:13 pm

That is quite a list 🙂

Getting everything you want in one camera is going to be quite hard – a large sensor will require a larger camera body, that’s just how it works. I’d also add that very few built in flashes are either that powerful or produce good results – this is why pretty much every professional level camera doesn’t even have a built-in flash.

It’s hard to give specific advice without a budget in mind. However, my advice to you would be to consider the Sony mirrorless systems, and in particular the Sony Alpha a7II ( http://amzn.to/2CbOehK ) for your requirements. This has nearly everything you have asked for:

1 – mirrorless, so smaller and lighter than EOS full frame cameras, weighs 1.32lbs 2 – takes great photos 3 – full frame sensor 4 – lots of lenses available 5 – built in 5-axis image stabilisation 6 – no flash (see above for why) 7 – 24.3MP

21st February 2018 at 1:37 pm

To follow on from your e-mail where you say that Sony are leaving the South African market (!). This is definitely a problem, as there aren’t any other full frame mirrorless cameras that I’m aware of, other than the Leica range, which are really expensive.

So my advice would be to look instead at the APS-C sized sensors on mirrorless cameras. These still produce great image quality and come in a smaller format. I’d specifically advise either the Fuji XT2 or the Fuji XT20, depending on your budget, both of which offer superb image quality. I know a number of professional photographers who love these cameras and use them as their main cameras day in and day out.

Techwhippet says

15th February 2018 at 7:22 am

Hi Mate! I just bought the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III, and am curious, do you ever take prime lenses when travelling? I’ve seen some amazing travel pictures taken with Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III. Amazing blog, keep up the great work!

17th February 2018 at 8:36 pm

Thanks very much! I don’t usually take prime lenses, I usually have a wide angle and a telephoto, and find that is enough to carry!

Greg Kennon says

3rd February 2017 at 4:05 pm

Wow! Awesome in depth post! We recently bought a Sony point and shoot camera and we have loved it. We have used a DSLR before but they are so heavy to take on long walks/hikes! Thanks for the great post! I will definitely reference this when it’s time to upgrade:)

Laurence says

3rd February 2017 at 4:09 pm

Thanks Greg, pleased you find it useful!

Leslie Hoerwinkle says

24th January 2017 at 3:53 am

So, which camera is the best? ????

13th February 2018 at 10:23 pm

It really depends on what you want to do with it, and your budget! I’d suggest checking out the post and making a decision on the best travel camera for you 🙂

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Notable Mentions

Recent updates, all reviews, the 5 best compact cameras - spring 2024 reviews.

Getting a compact camera (also known as a point-and-shoot) is a logical step if you want to take the leap from your smartphone to a dedicated camera. Compact cameras are typically small and lightweight, often pocketable, and feature built-in lenses, so you can focus on pointing and shooting. Despite their small sizes, many compact cameras still offer a level of image quality and features that you can't really get on a smartphone camera, like long zoom lenses and optical image stabilization, making them a great choice for travel  or street photography .

Most of our picks here are higher-end point-and-shoots, though we've also included a budget pick to round out the list. Cheaper options are dwindling and typically aren't worth the investment over simply using the smartphone you most likely already own. That said, if you're an enthusiast who wants a compact camera to shoot with on the side, or you like the idea of a dedicated all-in-one camera, there are still some great options to choose from.

We've bought over 100 cameras, and below, you'll find the best overall compact cameras that we've tested in our lab. If you want something relatively portable with an interchangeable lens, try the  best mirrorless cameras for travel  or the  best mirrorless cameras  more broadly, which tend to be smaller and lighter than traditional DSLR options. Alternatively, if you're looking for a portable camera to vlog with, you can check out the  best cameras for vlogging .

Best Compact Camera

Though it isn't cheap, the Sony RX100 VII is one of the best compact cameras we've tested. Thanks to a highly portable design, a wide zoom range, and plenty of extra features, this small but mighty point-and-shoot has everything you need. Unlike your average compact camera, the RX100 VII uses a larger 1-inch type sensor, so image quality is great for its class, and the sensor's stacked design minimizes rolling shutter effect and allows for remarkably quick 20 fps burst shooting.

While the RX100 VII doesn't have the longest zoom range, its 24–200 mm full-frame equivalent focal length is long enough to give you some flexibility with framing for various subjects. The camera's also packed with thoughtful design touches, like a small pop-up viewfinder and a pop-up flash—all while easily fitting into a coat pocket or small bag. That portability does come at the cost of a short battery life, but most compact cameras struggle in that arena, so it comes with the territory. And if you want to save money, you can find older models in the RX100 series on the used market for cheaper.

See our review

Best Mid-Range Compact Camera

If the Sony RX100 VII is out of your price range, a mid-range option like the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III delivers solid image quality and features at a lower price point. It's a fairly well-built camera with good ergonomics, including a small grip and thumb rest that provide a more secure hold. It also has a flip-up screen for selfies and vlogs, and like the Sony, it uses a 1-inch sensor that captures better-than-average image quality for a compact camera.

The built-in lens is quite good, too. It can open up to a fairly wide aperture, and its 4.2x zoom range is fairly versatile, although it doesn't have as much range as the lens on the RX100 VII. You still get extra features like optical and digital image stabilization and a built-in three-stop ND filter to help you shoot at slower shutter speeds in bright lighting. That said, the autofocus on this camera can be sluggish and unreliable, and like most compact cameras, battery life is limited. Still, if you're looking for a versatile point-and-shoot that won't cost you a fortune, the G7 X is a great choice.

Best Budget Compact Camera

Once you dip into budget territory, worthwhile options are fewer and farther between, but the Canon PowerShot SX740 is a solid choice that won't break the bank. Of course, if you really want to save money, the best option is to simply stick with your smartphone camera, which is already waiting for you in your back pocket. But if you're craving the feel of a point-and-shoot camera or need the zoom range that one can provide, the SX740 is a good choice at a lower price point.

Though it has a smaller sensor than our previous picks, its built-in lens can extend to a max full-frame equivalent focal length of 960mm, giving you an incredibly wide zoom range to shoot everything from landscape shots to close-ups of faraway subjects. Its image quality is nothing to write home about, but it's more than suitable for casual or family photography, and the camera's tilt-up screen makes it easy to take selfies or shoot at waist level. Ultimately, this point-and-shoot will serve you well if you need something very compact with a ton of zoom at a reasonable price.

Best Large Sensor Compact Camera

If image quality is your top priority, the RICOH GR III won't disappoint. It's one of the most compact cameras on this list and the only one with a larger APS-C sensor. That sensor provides excellent image quality, more dynamic range, and generally better low-light performance than cameras with smaller sensors. The GR III's minimalist design is also perfect for travel or street photography. However, the camera doesn't have many frills—no viewfinder or 4k video capability and a fixed screen that limits your shooting angles.

Unlike the Sony RX100 VII , this camera uses a fixed prime lens. While it isn't as versatile for faraway subjects, the 28mm equivalent focal length gives you a lot of coverage to capture street scenes or landscapes. If you prefer a tighter field of view, opt for the RICOH GR IIIx —while it's a little pricier, it has a lens with a narrower 40mm equivalent focal length. Ultimately, if you're looking for a highly portable, discreet camera that captures beautiful images, you can't go wrong with a GR III or GR IIIx.

Best Compact Vlogging Camera

Compact cameras can be a good fit for vlogging, thanks to their ease of use and portability, and the Sony ZV-1 is among the best we've tested. The camera is designed specifically for vloggers, so it's the only option on this list with a fully articulated screen for self-recording. It even has a specialized 'Product Showcase' mode for product and beauty vloggers, prioritizing focus on any objects held up in the frame. Its 1-inch sensor captures good video quality, too, and it has excellent autofocus and a fair selection of frame rates.

It's worth mentioning that the Sony ZV-1 II  has hit the market now. It's a great alternative if you prefer a wider field of view, but the new model no longer features optical stabilization, and its digital stabilization feature crops in some of that wider-angle view. Therefore, the original ZV-1 is still our top pick, especially since it costs less.

• Fujifilm X100V: The Fujifilm X100V is one of the best point-and-shoot cameras we've tested, with a unique hybrid viewfinder, a quiet leaf shutter, and an excellent APS-C sensor. However, stock shortages have inflated prices and made it difficult to find, and the manufacturer has now replaced it with the Fujifilm X100VI. See our review
• Panasonic LUMIX LX100 II: The Panasonic LUMIX LX100 II is a compact camera with a Micro Four Thirds sensor and an effective 17-megapixel resolution. Enthusiasts will appreciate its dedicated exposure controls and retro-inspired design. However, it isn't as versatile as the Sony RX100 VII, with a less reliable autofocus system and shorter zoom range. See our review
• Panasonic LUMIX ZS80: The Panasonic LUMIX ZS80 is a great budget compact camera, and unlike the Canon PowerShot SX740, it even has a viewfinder. However, it's been discontinued and is harder to find in stock. See our review

Apr 11, 2024: The Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II is no longer available at retailers, so we replaced it with the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III in the mid-range spot. We also re-ordered the picks and table slightly.

Mar 13, 2024: We've added a note about the release of the Fujifilm X100VI in the Notable Mentions section to better represent the current market.

Feb 15, 2024: Moved the Panasonic LUMIX ZS80 to Notable Mentions, as it's discontinued and hard to find in stock, and replaced it with the Canon PowerShot SX740 as the 'Best Budget Compact Camera.'

Jan 19, 2024: Reviewed article for accuracy and relevance to users.

Dec 20, 2023: Checked that picks were still accurate and relevant for users, with no change to recommendations.

Our recommendations above are what we think are currently the best small digital cameras for most people to buy, according to their needs. We factor in the price, feedback from our visitors, and availability (no cameras that are difficult to find or almost out of stock in the U.S.).

If you would like to choose for yourself, here's the list of all our reviews for compact and ultra-compact cameras. Be careful not to get caught up in the details. There is no single perfect camera. Personal taste, preference, and shooting habits will matter more in your selection.

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Best compact camera in 2024

Compact cameras continue to offer great value for money, and unique features.

The AP team picks out the best compact cameras you can buy in 2024, including the Fujifilm X100V, Ricoh GR IIIx, Sony RX100 VII and more.

The best compact camera marries the portable convenience of a smartphone with the photographic prowess and advanced manual controls of more sophisticated mirrorless or DSLR cameras . Compact cameras used to be thought of as cheap and disposable things; however, in recent years manufacturers have had to work a lot harder to compete with the convenient phone cameras everyone carries around now.

Consequently, the best compact cameras deliver things that a smartphone physically can’t – a larger imaging sensor and a lens with sophisticated high-quality optics. With a compact camera, you can get images with greater sharpness, and quality than you would on a phone.

The large aperture on a compact camera’s lens also allows for the use of artful effects like shallow depth of field to blur an image’s background. There’s a reason why classic compact cameras like the Fujifilm X100V and X100VI have become so popular online lately – they deliver an imaging experience that a phone camera just can’t quite replicate.

We’ve picked out the compact cameras we think deliver the best value for money right now, based on current prices and our extensive testing experience. Cameras come at a range of prices in this guide, with cheap and premium options included. We’ve focused on smaller compact cameras designed for travel, as opposed to big superzoom models – you can check out our guide to the best ultra zoom cameras if that’s what you’re looking for.

How to choose the best compact camera

If technical terms aren’t your thing, don’t worry. We’ve kept this buying guide simple, using easy-to-understand language everyone can follow. In this guide, we’re not interested in comparing images pixel by pixel (if you want to see that sort of thing, check out our camera reviews ).

However, it is worth being mindful of a few key specs when picking your compact camera, as we’ve come a long way since the simple point-and-shoot camera, so here are some key things to keep in mind, as simply as possible.

The  sensor size and resolution are going to have a big impact on the final look of your image. With compacts, you’re generally dealing with sensors in 3-4 sizes. From smallest to largest, they are: 1/2.3-inch, 1-inch, Micro Four Thirds, and APS-C. A larger sensor is generally better in terms of image quality, allowing for greater tonality and dynamic range. However, they cost more, and require larger cameras to house.

Resolution, measured in megapixels (MP) , refers to the level of detail in an image. More megapixels mean you can print images in higher quality, and crop more, but it can incur more image noise, reducing quality in low light.

The other half of a compact camera is, of course, the lens . The focal range will determine how much you can zoom in and out. Big zooms will naturally give you more versatility, but it tends to come at a cost of optical quality.

Indeed, some compacts like Fujifilm’s fabulous X100V don’t zoom at all, being equipped with a high-quality prime lens. These produce sublime images, but if you want to get close to a subject, you need to move your feet.

Other features are worth considering. Want to shoot fast action? Check how many frames per second the camera can manage. Think you’ll be working in low light? A higher ISO range is your best bet. If you want to shoot video as well as stills, check the video resolution and frame rate .

There’s more to discuss, but the best way to get a feel for it is to take a look through these incredible compact cameras.

If you can’t wait, and want to know right now, which are the best compact cameras, then here’s the quick list:

• Best compact for action: Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VII – Buy now
• Best retro compact camera: Fujifilm X100V – Buy now
• Best pocket camera: Ricoh GR IIIx – Buy now
• Best waterproof camera: Olympus/OM System Tough TG-7 – Buy now
• Best for YouTube and streaming: Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III – Buy now
• Best compact for low light: Panasonic Lumix LX100 II – Buy now
• Best premium travel compact: Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VI – Buy now
• Best used travel zoom: Panasonic Lumix TZ90 / ZS70 – Buy now
• Best all-rounder: Panasonic Lumix TZ100 / ZS100 – Buy now
• Best compact for video and vlogging: Sony ZV-1 – Buy now
• Best budget camera under $100: Kodak PixPro FZ45 – Buy now

In this unmissable buyer’s guide we take a closer look at some of the best compact cameras that you can currently buy and give our expert recommendations about what each one is best for…

Best compact for action: Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VII

At a glance:

• 20MP Exmor RS CMOS sensor
• 24-200mm equivalent f/2.8-4.5 lens
• 20fps shooting
• 4K video recording
• Price: $1,298 / £1,150

The ultimate offering in portability and overall image quality has to be the Sony RX100 VII. Sony’s RX100 range is what introduced the one-inch sensor to the market, and the camera which others tend to follow. We’re now in the seventh generation from the original camera, and the tech which is packed into this miniature marvel is quite something.

Not only do you have a one-inch sensor, you get a 24-200mm (35mm equivalent) lens which offers an f/2.8-f/4.5 maximum aperture. High-speed shooting is available – pretty incredible for a pocket camera – you can shoot at 24fps. The autofocus system is also pretty impressive, so you could conceivably use this camera to shoot sports and action.

Other exciting features include 4K video, in-built wi-fi and a tilting LCD touchscreen. You also get a cleverly hidden electronic viewfinder which pops out from the corner of the camera.

So, what’s the drawback? Well – it’s the price. You need to pay top whack to get all of these features in such a small package, and the RX100 VII currently retails for around £1,000. That’s a heck of a lot of money to spend on a compact camera, but you do get something seriously impressive for your cash. If you don’t have those kind of readies available, take a look at some of the older RX100 models – we have included one option a little later in this guide. 

What we like:

• Excellent zoom range
• High-speed 24fps shooting
• Pop-up viewfinder

What we don’t like:

• Very expensive

Read our Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VII Review

Best retro compact camera: Fujifilm X100V

• 26.1MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor
• 23mm F2.0 lens (35mm equivalent)
• Hybrid Viewfinder (OVF&EVF)
• 3-inch, 1.62-million-dot, two-way tilting touchscreen
• 4K video at 30fps
• Compatible with legacy conversion lenses
• Price: $1,399 / £1,299

The Fujifilm X100V isn’t just a good-looking camera, it also takes some excellent photos thank to a 26MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS sensor, and an updated lens design improves macro performance. The lens on the front is a 23mm f/2.0 prime lens, giving a 35mm equivalent (in 35mm terms).

You’ll also find Fujifilm’s latest Film Simulation modes, with a number of black and white film options, including ACROS, as well as the option to add a film-like grain effect to images, great for those gritty black and white street photographs.

There’s a hybrid optical/electronic viewfinder that can give you the best of both worlds, and give you the true rangefinder camera experience. The touchscreen on the back tilts which can help with awkward angles, or when you want to ‘shoot from the hip’.

If you’re interested in recording video, then you’ll find the camera has 4K video recording at 30fps, although the lack of image stabilisation may be a deal-breaker for some. The X100V is a gorgeous little camera that’s as satisfying to look at as it is to shoot with. It has a special thing going for it in the way it inspires you to venture out and take pictures, as it’s very easy it is to carry and produces great images.

• If you can’t find the Fujifilm X100V, check out our guide to Fujifilm X100V alternatives .
• Gorgeous image quality
• A pleasure to use
• Stylish looks
• Difficult to find

Read our Fujifilm X100V Review

Best pocket camera: Ricoh GR IIIx

• 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor
• 26.1mm f/2.8 (40mm equivalent) lens
• 100-102,400 ISO range
• 3-inch, 1.04m-dot, fixed touchscreen
• Full HD video
• Price: $996 / £899

The Ricoh GR IIIx, like the Fujifilm X100V, has an APS-C CMOS Sensor, which is impressive considering the compact size of the camera. It features a 26.1mm f/2.8 lens, equivalent to 40mm (in 35mm terms), and the camera has a clever ‘Snap’ focus system so you can quickly get shots without any delay from focusing, making it another great street camera.

The Ricoh GR IIIx is the latest digital iteration of the cult classic Ricoh GR film camera, and is designed to be a pocketable camera (weighing just 262g) that you can take anywhere. There’s also built-in sensor-shift shake reduction, which moves the 24MP sensor on 3-axis to counter any shake.

There’s a 3-inch touch-screen on the back, and you’ll find dual command dials making it easier to change settings quickly. The GR IIIx handles really well. It has a rapid sub-one-second start up time, quick shutter response, comfortable single-handed operation and intuitive controls.

It’s also worth noting that its excellent predecessor – the Ricoh GR III , which has a wider angle 18.3mm f/2.8 (28mm equivalent) lens – remains on the market from £689.

The Ricoh GR IIIx is a well positioned niche alternative to smartphones and big cameras, offering a wonderful mix of the two. There’s enough in it to compel smartphone users considering a ‘real’ camera, and experienced photographers who want a ‘proper’ photographic tool in their pocket. But, first and foremost, it needs to deliver excellent image quality in any kind of light… and the GR IIIx achieves this thanks to the combination of its 24MP APS-C sensor, DNG raw capture and sharp 40mm f/2.8 lens.

• Fast, reactive focusing
• 3-axis stabilisation
• Useful all-purpose focal length
• Quite a niche proposition

Read our Ricoh GR IIIx Review

Best waterproof camera: OM System Tough TG-7

• 12MP image sensor
• 4x optical zoom lens; 25-100mm (35mm equivalent)
• Waterproof down to 15m, shockproof, crushproof, freezeproof
• 16 scene modes
• Price: £499 / $499

Olympus has been making tough, waterproof, compact cameras for a very long time now, and it’s culminated in the OM System Tough TG-7, the 7th version of the premium waterproof camera.

Over the years it’s been refined, with improvements made to image quality, video recording, and strength. You’ll even find there’s a range of accessories available for this camera that can improve close up flash performance or add extra protection to the camera.

The camera uses a 12MP sensor along with an f/2.0 lens which gives it an edge over entry-level waterproof cameras, and will help with the low-light conditions you find underwater. Thanks to the folded optics used in the construction of the lens, the camera has an impressive level of macro performance letting you get detailed close-up shots.

4K video recording is included. Fans of macro photography will be impressed by the built-in focus stacking , and there are some manual controls available for when you’re shooting. This model also benefits from USB-C charging.

• Tougher than a tank
• f/2 zoom lens
• Useful macro modes
• Small sensor
• Raw needed to get the best results

Read our Olympus / OM System Tough TG-7 review .

Best for YouTube and streaming: Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III

• 20.1MP, 1-inch CMOS sensor
• 24-100mm equivalent, f/1.8-2.8 lens
• ISO range: 125-12,800
• Screen: 3-inch 180-degree tilting touchscreen, 1.04 million dots LCD
• 20fps burst shooting (8.3fps with AF), 4K video
• Price: $749 / £699

Canon’s PowerShot G7 X Mark II was an unexpected hit with YouTubers, with its combination of a high-quality 1-inch sensor and 24-100mm equivalent lens providing everything needed in one handy setup. Accordingly, the Mark III version leant into that, providing basically the same fundamental camera, but with uncropped 4K UHD video, a 3.5mm mic jack, and the ability to livestream directly to YouTube.

Photographers may be put off by the lack of a viewfinder; vloggers and YouTubers, less so. The 180-degree tilting LCD screen is very useful for selfies and self-taping, while the defined grip also makes the camera more comfortable to hold than its slim dimensions might indicate. The metal control ring around the lens is also comfortable to use, giving the G7 X Mark III a premium feel.

Image quality is excellent, in stills as well as video – it may be a vlogging camera first, but the G7 X Mark III is no slouch for photographers. If you are a hybrid content creator who wants a lightweight camera that’ll do a bit of everything, the G7 X Mark III might just be it.

• Vlogger-friendly features
• Excellent image quality
• Feels premium
• No viewfinder

Read our Canon PowerShot G7X Mark III review

Best compact for low light: Panasonic Lumix LX100 II

• 17MP Four Thirds MOS sensor
• 24-75mm equivalent lens, f/1.7-2.8
• 3-inch, 1.28M dot touchscreen
• ISO range: 200-25,600 (standard), ISO 100 (extended)
• Continuous shooting: 11fps max (5.5fps with AF-C)
• Price: $797 / £799

The Panasonic Lumix LX100 II offers a multi-aspect ratio sensor, based on a Four Thirds sensor, and combined with a bright f/1.7-2.8 zoom lens with optical image stabilisation, you get a camera that can perform well in low-light shooting situations.

There’s a 3-inch touchscreen, but unfortunately this doesn’t tilt. You’ll also find a high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 2.76m dots.

The metal bodied camera benefits from a number of external controls and switches, and this makes it a great tactile camera to use, letting you set different settings even when the camera is switched off.

As you would expect with a premium camera, you can record 4K video, and the camera has built-in Wi-Fi so you can transfer images to your smartphone, as well as control it remotely. Despite coming out back in 2018, the Panasonic Lumix LX100 II remains a very versatile and easy-to-carry travel companion.

• Premium metallic construction
• High-quality f/1.7 lens
• Multi-aspect sensor
• Fixed touchscreen

Read our Panasonic Lumix LX100 II Long Term Review

Best premium travel compact: Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VI

• 20MP 1inch BSI CMOS sensor
• 24-200mm equivalent, f/2.8-4.5 lens
• Pop-up electronic viewfinder
• 24fps shooting
• Price: $1198 / £849

If you liked the look of the Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VII in our top spot but felt it was a little out of your budget, why not consider the previous iteration in the series? The Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VI is a highly capable little pocketable compact that offers basically the same shooting fundamentals as the Mark VII, pairing a 20MP 1-inch sensor with a 24-200mm equivalent zoom lens, giving you a flexible little shooter that’s great for travel.

The RX100 VI reliably captures sharp images throughout its entire zoom range, and the snappy autofocus system helps the user keep up a very good hit rate. Like a lot of RX100 cameras, it’s a fiddly thing to use and the automated exposure system is excellent, so while you could fiddle with settings if you wanted to, you’ll probably have a better time if you keep out of the camera’s way.

This may seem a strange thing to say about a camera that is hovering around the £1,000 / $1,000 mark, but the RX100 VI really does produce sublime images. It’s just not a super-tactile experience for those who like to be more involved in the shooting process – for that, you’re probably better off with something like the Fujifilm X100V, featured further on in this guide.

• High-quality 24-200 zoom lens
• Slim and pocketable
• Price has come down
• Controls are fiddly and awkward
• Battery life isn’t the best

Read our Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VI review . 

Best used travel zoom: Panasonic Lumix TZ90 / ZS70

• 20.3MP, 1/2.3-inch size sensor
• 24-720mm equivalent lens, 30x optical zoom
• 3-inch, 1040k-dot touch-sensitive LCD screen, tilts 180 degrees
• 0.2-inch, 1,166k-dot viewfinder, 100% field of view, 0.46x magnification
• 4K video recording (can get 30fps stills)
• Price: $397 / £319, or less used

Panasonic’s travel zoom compact builds on the successes of all that came before it. It features a 30x optical zoom, but in return for that large zoom range, you need to accept a smaller sensor than its one-inch comrade, the TZ100.

This is still among the most well-featured superzoom compacts on the market. As well as the huge zoom, you get an in-built viewfinder (albeit small), 4K video shooting, a touch-sensitive screen, manual controls, raw format shooting and a body which just about fits in your pocket.

A great choice for those looking for something to take on their travels, in low light it suffers by comparison to its larger sensor rivals. If you’re mainly going to be using it on your sunny holidays, you shouldn’t worry too much about that.

The Panasonic Lumix TZ90 was updated by the TZ95 / TZ95D with a slightly larger EVF and the addition of Bluetooth, but the TZ90 remains excellent value for money.

• Great feature-set
• Fits in a pocket
• Beefy zoom range
• Small sensor reduces low light performance

Read our Panasonic TZ90 vs Panasonic TZ100 comparison

Best all-rounder: Panasonic Lumix TZ100 / ZS100

• 20.1MP image sensor
• 10x optical zoom lens, 25-250mm equivalent
• 5-axis image stabilisation
• 3-inch, rear LCD screen
• Price: $497 / £389

In most cases, compacts which feature a large (one-inch) sensor, have a restricted zoom. However, Panasonic’s TZ100 manages to bridge the gap between premium compacts and superzooms, with its 10x optical zoom offering.

While 10x doesn’t get near the heady heights of the 30x or 40x zooms elsewhere in this list, the 25-250mm equivalent should be more than enough for most situations. Alongside this, there’s a rich feature list which includes 4K video shooting, 10fps shooting, built-in WiFi and an electronic viewfinder.

The main drawback is a rather small electronic viewfinder, though it does offer a 1.16-million-dot resolution, but a 3-inch rear LCD with touch sensitivity helps with the handling. The screen is fixed, which is a shame when composing from awkward angles, but it did perhaps help to keep the overall size of the camera down.

Overall, this is a very likeable camera and it’s probably the best compromise of all the cameras here – you get a bit of everything for your cash, and the price isn’t outrageously high either. Image quality is very good, and while it’s not going to match your DSLR, the fact that you can fit it into your pocket makes it particularly appealing as a travel camera.

• Pocketable form factor
• Useful zoom range
• Great value for money
• Fixed rear screen

Read our Panasonic Lumix DMC-TZ100 review

Best compact for video and vlogging: Sony ZV-1

• 20.1MP 1-inch BSI CMOS sensor
• 25-70mm equivalent lens, f/1.8-2.8
• ISO range: 125-12,800 (extendable to ISO 64)
• 3-inch, fully articulated touchscreen
• 4K video recording (25fps)
• Price: $748 / £699

The Sony ZV-1 has been specifically designed to be an excellent compact camera for vlogging and video recording , and thanks to a 1-inch sensor, a high quality lens, and some video friendly features, it delivers the goods.

It features 4K video recording and specific video features to make vlogging even easier, with a ‘Product Showcase’ mode, as well as a Background Defocus switch. You’ll find a multi-direction microphone on top, which is provided with a ‘deadcat’ that’s designed to reduce wind noise, and a screen that can be turned around for vlogging and selfies.

Although it’s clearly aimed at vloggers if there’s one feature that might tempt serious photographers to try the ZV-1, it’s the rare delight of getting a fully articulated screen on a pocket camera. This is something you’ll usually only find on larger SLR-styled bodies, like the Canon G5 X and G1 X Mark III, which really stretch the definition of ‘pocketable’.

If you want to use an external microphone you can, as there’s a microphone socket on the side, as well as HDMI output. Overall, the ZV-1 is a really interesting little camera that takes RX100-series technology and gives it a video-centric twist. Its vlogging features generally work well, and appear cleverly targeted to its intended audience.

If you’re looking for a vlogging camera with an ultra-wide-angle zoom, have a look at the new Sony ZV-1 Mark II . 

• Vlog-friendly feature set
• Fully articulated screen
• Comes with wind muffler

Read our Sony ZV-1 Review

Best budget camera under $100: Kodak PixPro FZ45

• 16MP 1/2.3inch CMOS sensor
• 4x optical zoom, f/3.0-6.6, 27-108mm equivalent
• 2.7inch screen
• FullHD 30p video recording
• 2x AA batteries

The Kodak PixPro FZ45 is one of the cheapest compact cameras available from a main brand! It may surprise you to see that Kodak are still making digital cameras, but it’s actually made under licence by another company. This doesn’t really matter too much except for the fact that you actually get a reasonably good camera, particularly for the low price of under $100 / £100.

The camera is very easy to use, fits in your pocket, and takes AA batteries. When I used this camera, I was particularly impressed by the built-in flash, which helped with low-light shooting, as well as the battery life which seemed to last for ages when using the provided alkaline batteries.

It’s available in a number of colours, with black, white and red options available, giving you something a bit more interesting than all the black cameras out there.

• Takes AA batteries
• Includes a real flash
• Image quality won’t match other cameras
• MicroUSB connection

Read our Kodak PixPro FZ45 review . JW.

We hope that’s been helpful to you when choosing your next compact camera. Have a look at more buying guides here , and if you’re looking for cheaper options have a look at our guide to classic compact cameras , as well as vintage digital cameras .

Follow AP on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , and YouTube .

Amy is a highly experienced photography and technology journalist who has been working on AP since 2018, having been working in the industry since 2009. She is a graduate of the magazine journalism course at Cardiff University and has written for a wide range of publications and websites. As Features Editor, she is responsible for commissioning an eclectic mix of features connected to general photography, along with interviews. She is also a very experienced reviewer of cameras and associated technology, with her reviews featured on multiple sites including TechRadar, Digital Camera World, Trusted Reviews, ePhotozine, Stuff, Expert Reviews, T3, Photography Blog and more. She is also an expert on smartphone photography and smartphones generally.

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