Best Point and Shoot Digital Cameras

Here you will find our list of the top 10 best point and shoot digital cameras. Below those point and shoot digital camera reviews we also provide a comparison chart so you can easily compare one camera versus another.

For these cameras we primarily focused on overall quality regardless of price. For more camera options you might want to consider are other digital camera lists like the best waterproof, compact, superzoom, or cheap cameras.


9.2
#1)

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII

Price: $1198 | Megapixels: 20.1 | Optical Zoom: 8x
Sensor: 1 inch | Dimensions: 4.0 x 2.3 x 1.7 inches

We selected the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII as the best point and shoot digital camera. It is expensive, but you won’t find a more capable pocket camera on the market. It offers an 8x zoom, excellent image quality, and the best 4K video you will find in a compact camera. The biggest improvement on the RX100 VII is the autofocus and image stabilization in video mode. It also has 20 fps continuous shooting.

The one slight negative is that the small max aperture of the lens limits the camera’s use in dim lighting.

Overall the RX100 VII is perfect for anyone who wants a compact point and shoot camera with a decent zoom and wants superior video quality.


9.1
#2)

Fujifilm X100F

Price: $1299 | Megapixels: 24.3 | Optical Zoom: 1x
Sensor: APS-C | Dimensions: 5.0 x 2.9 x 2.1 inches

The Fujifilm X100F is the only camera on this list that uses the larger APS-C sensor which results in outstanding image quality. It has a somewhat compact body with a unique hybrid viewfinder and fixed 3″ LCD.

However, the X100F has a fixed lens with no zoom. Video is also limited to 1080p.

Overall the Fujifilm X100F is a great point and shoot camera for true photographers, but might not be suited as well to more normal users who need some more flexibility or who don’t want to spend a premium.


9.1
#3)

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV

Price: $1598 | Megapixels: 20.1 | Optical Zoom: 25x
Sensor: 1 inch | Dimensions: 5.2 x 3.7 x 5.0 inches

We selected the Sony DSC-RX10 IV as the best superzoom point and shoot digital camera. This spectacular DSLR alternative, however, is the most expensive camera on our list. The RX10 IV provides amazing image quality thanks to its 20 MP 1-inch back-side illuminated sensor and BIONZ X image processor. The 25x optical zoom Zeiss lens is similarly amazing.

The DSC-RX10 IV is built well, offers speedy performance – up to 24 FPS, has a bright OLED viewfinder, and provides quick image sharing via Wi-Fi or NFC. The video capture is also second-to-none with full 4K recording and super slow-motion of up to 960 fps.

Other than being expensive, the only other real negative is that is fairly large and heavy – at 38.6 ounces it is one of the heaviest on this list.

Overall, if you want the best high-zoom bridge camera you can buy without getting a DSLR and don’t care about price then the Sony DSC-RX10 IV is perfect for you. If you want to save some money you could also consider the older DSC-RX10 III which will save you about $300.


9
#4)

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II

Price: $649 | Megapixels: 20.2 | Optical Zoom: 4.2x
Sensor: 1 inch | Dimensions: 4.2 x 2.4 x 1.7 inches

The Canon PowerShot G7X II is an amazing camera for the price. It received a Best Buy award for advanced compact point-and-shoot cameras from the leading consumer magazine and is one of the highest rated models on Amazon.

Outstanding image quality is achieved thanks to a 20 MP 1″ CMOS sensor, DIGIC 7 image processor, and 24-100mm equivalent 4.2x optical zoom f/1.8-2.8 lens. Low light image quality is also excellent and the PowerShot G7X II has fast performance even when shooting RAW files in burst mode.

The HD video quality is also excellent, however it does not take 4K video. The battery life is just average. Also there is no viewfinder and the continuous AutoFocus can struggle with fast objects.

We highly recommend the Canon PowerShot G7X II for anyone looking for an outstanding point-and-shoot.


9
#5)

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II

Price: $998 | Megapixels: 20.2 | Optical Zoom: 8.33x
Sensor: 1 inch | Dimensions: 5.1 x 3.5 x 4.0 inches

The Sony RX10 II received the highest score for a point and shoot camera from the leading consumer magazine. It combines excellent still images and 4K video with plenty of pro-level features. It has a 2.35 million dot EVF and can shoot 14 fps.

Overall the Sony RX10 II is great for anyone looking for solid all-around point and shoot camera. However, it is not the best for more budget conscious shoppers or for anyone who specifically wants to shoot sports or action photos.


9
#6)

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ1000

Price: $597 | Megapixels: 20.1 | Optical Zoom: 16x
Sensor: 1 inch | Dimensions: 5.4 x 3.9 x 5.1 inches

We think the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ1000 is the best value point and shoot camera for the price. Combine the 1 inch sensor, deep feature set, 4K video, plus a 16x zoom means you get great image and video quality plus plenty of versatility.

The FZ1000 might not have the best specs in any one area, but it rates highly in nearly all. It really doesn’t have any significant weaknesses other than being a bit bulky.

If you are looking for a cheap, or at least more affordable, yet high quality point and shoot camera then you really can’t go wrong with the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ1000.


9
#7)

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 IV

Price: $898 | Megapixels: 20.1 | Optical Zoom: 2.92x
Sensor: 1 inch | Dimensions: 4.0 x 2.3 x 1.6 inches

The RX100-series from Sony has set the standard for premium compact cameras and while slightly older, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 IV is no exception. It has amazing quality 4K video with up to 960 fps for super slow motion videos. Users should be aware though that you are limited to just 5 minutes of 4K video at a time.

The photo quality is superior to almost all other compact point-and-shoot cameras thanks to its 20.1 MP 1″ stacked CMOS sensor and Zeiss F1.8-F2.8 lens. Other nice features include 1/32000 shutter, fast autofocus, 16 fps burst shooting, viewfinder, and articulating screen.

The main con for the DSC-RX100 IV is the 2.92x optical zoom which is a bit limiting in certain situations. The battery life is also just average.


8.9
#8)

Canon PowerShot G3 X

Price: $849 | Megapixels: 20.2 | Optical Zoom: 25x
Sensor: 1 inch | Dimensions: 4.9 x 3.0 x 4.1 inches

The Canon Powershot G3 X can compete with the much more expensive Sony RX10 IV. The main differences are slightly worse optics, no 4K video, slightly slower, lighter, and no built-in EVF (however, you can buy one separately).

The G3X still has very good image quality – probably better than every other camera on this list – due to its 20 MP 1-inch sensor and DIGIC 6 image processor. The 25x f/2.8-5.6 optical zoom lens is excellent as well. Users have plenty of controls, dials, and a touchscreen to setup the camera exactly as you wish. This Canon camera shoots 1080/60p video and includes both a mic and headphone jack.

There really isn’t any major drawbacks to the G3X, but there a few minor ones. The auto-focus speed is average for this price range and burst rate in RAW/RAW+JPG mode is a bit sluggish.

Overall we recommend the Canon Powershot G3 X for buyers who want the best high zoom camera for under $1000 and who don’t need 4K video.


8.8
#9)

Canon Powershot G5 X Mark II

Price: $899 | Megapixels: 20.2 | Optical Zoom: 5x
Sensor: 1 inch | Dimensions: 4.4 x 2.4 x 1.8 inches

The Canon PowerShot G5 X II is a solid pocket point and shoot camera for photographers, but it does not have the best video quality. It has a very good image quality and excellent performance, although the autofocus can struggle a bit with action shots.

Overall the Canon PowerShot G5 X II is one compact camera that any enthusiast photographer should consider.


8.8
#10)

Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX10

Price: $497.99 | Megapixels: 20.1 | Optical Zoom: 3x
Sensor: 1 inch | Dimensions: 4.2 x 2.4 x 1.7 inches

Regularly priced at $698, you can find it on sale for $498 which means the best point and shoot camera under $500 is the Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II. It was also awarded as a Best Buy by the leading consumer magazine. The photo quality if really good, while the video quality will rival the top models on this list. It can shoot at 7 fps continuous shooting with autofocus.

On the downside the ergonomics aren’t the best on the G9 X Mark II and there is no viewfinder. The 3x zoom might limit some users as well.

Overall the Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II is a great value for the price and we would recommend it to anyone looking for a more affordable compact point and shoot camera.


Best Point and Shoot Digital Camera Comparison Chart

Rank Point and Shoot Camera Rating Best Price MegaPixels Optical
Zoom
Sensor Max Aperture Shutter Speed Max ISO Video Resolution Wi-Fi Weight (oz) Dimensions (in)
W” x H” x D”
1 Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII 9.2 $1,198.00 20.1 8 1 inch f 2.8 30 – 1/32000 25600 4K 3840 x 2160 (30p, 25p, 24p) Yes 10.7 4.0 x 2.3 x 1.7
2 Fujifilm X100F 9.1 $1,299.00 24.3 1 APS-C f 2.0 30 – 1/32000 51200 HD 1920 x 1080 (60p, 50p, 30p, 25p, 24p) Yes 16.5 5.0 x 2.9 x 2.1
3 Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV 9.1 $1,598.00 20.1 25 1 inch f 2.4 30 – 1/32000 25600 4K 3840 x 2160 (30p, 25p, 24p) Yes 38.6 5.2 x 3.7 x 5.0
4 Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II 9 $649.00 20.2 4.2 1 inch f 1.8-2.8 15 – 1/2000 12800 HD 1920 x 1080 (60p, 30p, 24p) Yes 11.2 4.2 x 2.4 x 1.7
5 Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 II 9 $998.00 20.2 8.33 1 inch f 2.8 30 – 1/32000 25600 4K 3840 x 2160 (30p, 25p, 24p) Yes 29.9 5.1 x 3.5 x 4.0
6 Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ1000 9 $597.00 20.1 16 1 inch f 2.8 60 – 1/16000 25600 4K 3840 x 2160 @ 30p Yes 29.4 5.4 x 3.9 x 5.1
7 Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 IV 9 $898.00 20.1 2.92 1 inch f 1.8-2.8 30 – 1/32000 25600 4K 3840 x 2160 (30p, 25p, 24p) Yes 10.4 4.0 x 2.3 x 1.6
8 Canon PowerShot G3 X 8.9 $849.00 20.2 25 1 inch f 2.8 30 – 1/2000 12800 HD 1920 x 1080 (60p) Yes 26.1 4.9 x 3.0 x 4.1
9 Canon Powershot G5 X Mark II 8.8 $899.00 20.2 5 1 inch f 1.8 30 – 1/25600 25600 4K 3840 x 2160 @ 30p Yes 12 4.4 x 2.4 x 1.8
10 Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX10 8.8 $497.99 20.1 3 1 inch f 1.4 60 – 1/16000 25600 4K 3840 x 2160 (30p, 24p) Yes 10.9 4.2 x 2.4 x 1.7


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