10 Best Superzoom Digital Cameras
We define superzoom cameras as any model with an optical zoom of greater than 20x. Within this category you will find many different styles ranging from compact pocket-sized to larger full body versions due to the size of the lens. The price range also varies from about $200 up to about $1500.
If you want that mega-zoom lens in the 30x, 40x, 50x, or more than you came to the right place. If you are looking for other specific type of cameras perhaps you would be more interested in compact, waterproof, or cheap cameras.
Below we review our choices for the top 10 best superzoom digital cameras. If you want to compare specs on each model see our comparison chart at the bottom of this article.
9.1
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV
Sensor: 1 inch | Dimensions: 5.2 x 3.7 x 5.0 inches
We selected the Sony DSC-RX10 IV as the best superzoom digital camera. This spectacular DSLR alternative, however, is the most expensive superzoom 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.
8.9
Canon PowerShot G3 X
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 camera for under $1000 and who don’t need 4K video.
8.8
Nikon Coolpix P900
Sensor: 1/2.3 inch | Dimensions: 5.5 x 4.1 x 5.4 inches
If you want a really high zoom then you should consider the 83x zoom of the Nikon Coolpix P900. With a 16 MP 1/2.3 inch sensor the image quality does not quite compare to the more expensive Sony and Canon models, but is still really good. The P900 has excellent image stabilization to shoot at long focal lengths.
The Nikon Coolpix P900 has full manual exposure controls, built-in Wi-Fi, NFC, and GPS. Video capture is fully automatic in 1080/60p.
On the downside it does lack some features that more advanced users might desire like RAW capture or a hot shoe. When fully zoomed in the images have some noticeable noise reduction which can mean a lack fine detail. Due to the large zoom lens, it is also a bit on the heavy side at 32 ounces.
Overall the Nikon Coolpix P900 is for any buyer looking for the a super long zoom like birding and wildlife photographers.
8.7
Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FZ300
Sensor: 1/2.3 inch | Dimensions: 5.2 x 3.6 x 4.6 inches
The Panasonic Lumix FZ300 has an excellent 24x constant f/2.8 25-600mm lens for great low light photography through the whole zoom range and a body that is weather resistant for use in the rain. The 12 megapixel 1/2.3-inch MOS sensor provides suprisingly good image and video quality.
Other positive features include fast performance including AF and 12 fps burst shooting, solid OLED EVF, 3-inch rear display with with tilt and swivel capability, Wi-Fi, 4K video and 4K photo modes, and RAW image capture.
There are other cameras that have the same sensor and zoom capabilities in a smaller camera body, but they don’t perform as well as the Panasonic Lumix FZ300 thanks to its lens. Overall the FZ300 is a solid choice for those who want excellent image quality and want to shoot 4K video all for under $400.
8.7
Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS80
Sensor: 1/2.3 inch | Dimensions: 4.4 x 2.7 x 1.6 inches
If you want a compact camera with a superzoom lens then the Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS80 might just be for you. The 30x zoom is one of the highest you will find on a pocket-sized camera, however the 1/2.3″ sensor will limit the overall image quality compared to the other 1″ sensor cameras on this list.
Other features include a 3″ touchscreen LCD that can flip up by 180 degrees as well as a small electronic viewfinder. The ZS80 can also shoot bursts at 5 fps and record 4K video.
8.6
Nikon Coolpix P1000
Sensor: 1/2.3 inch | Dimensions: 5.8 x 4.7 x 7.1 inches
If you want the longest zoom lens you can find then the Nikon Coolpix P1000 with its 125x 24-3000mm equivalent lens is for you. The image quality is quite good, but does not measure up to the top tier cameras with 1 inch sensors.
Besides being expensive, the P1000 is also the heaviest and largest camera on this list as well due to the lens. Other features include a 3.2″ fully articulating LCD, OLED viewfinder, Raw support, and UHD 4K/30p video.
The Nikon Coolpix P1000 is a specialized camera that is all about its long range which makes it a good choice for capturing the moon or wildlife from long distances, however its not a great camera for most normal shooting conditions. There are better, cheaper cameras for those photos.
8.4
Canon PowerShot SX740 HS
Sensor: 1/2.3 inch | Dimensions: 4.3 x 2.5 x 1.6 inches
The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS is the best compact, superzoom camera on our list under $400. With a 1/2.3 inch sensor the image quality will not compare to most of the top models on this list.
Some other nice features include Canon’s DIGIC 8 processor, a 3″ LCD that can flip upward 180 degrees, and 4K/30p video.
If you want a cheap compact camera we should also mention the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS which sells for right around $250. It is very similar to the SX740 HS, but only has a 25x zoom and shoots HD video, not 4K.
8.2
Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX80
Sensor: 1/2.3 inch | Dimensions: 4.0 x 2.3 x 1.4 inches
The cheapest compact superzoom camera on our list is the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX80. It also is the lightest high zoom camera as well.
The DSC-HX80 has a 30x 24–720mm lens, a retractable electronic viewfinder, and a tilting rear screen that flips up 180 degrees so you can take selfies. It does not shoot 4K video, however, just 1080/60p.
If you need an affordable, portable superzoom camera then the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX80 is an excellent choice.
8.2
Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80
Sensor: 1/2.3 inch | Dimensions: 5.1 x 3.7 x 4.7 inches
The Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80 is a good all-around high zoom camera with a cheap price under $300. The image quality is good, but far from great.
The FZ80 does have a fast auto-focus, long 60x zoom lens, a nice touchscreen interface, and can shoot 4K video.
8.1
Nikon Coolpix B600
Sensor: 1/2.3 inch | Dimensions: 4.8 x 3.2 x 3.9 inches
The cheapest superzoom camera on our list is the Nikon Coolpix B600 selling for about $297. The highlight of the B600 is the 60x zoom lens.
The B600 uses a 16MP BSI-CMOS sensor (1/2.3″) that results in decent picture quality, but ultimately doesn’t compare to some of the more expensive models. It also has a 3″ fixed LCD, but no electronic viewfinder. Video can be captured at 1080/30p.
You should consider the Nikon Coolpix B600 if you want a cheap high zoom camera and do not need 4K video recording capabilities.
Best Superzoom Digital Camera Comparison Chart
Rank | Superzoom 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-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 |
2 | 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 |
3 | Nikon Coolpix P900 | 8.8 | $596.95 | 16 | 83 | 1/2.3 inch | f 2.8-6.5 | 1 – 1/4000 | 12800 | HD 1920 x 1080 (60p, 50p, 30p, 25p) | Yes | 32.3 | 5.5 x 4.1 x 5.4 |
4 | Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FZ300 | 8.7 | $397.99 | 12 | 24 | 1/2.3 inch | f 2.8 | 60 – 1/16000 | 4K 3840 x 2160 (30p, 24p) | Yes | 25.5 | 5.2 x 3.6 x 4.6 | |
5 | Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS80 | 8.7 | $447.99 | 20.3 | 30 | 1/2.3 inch | f 3.3 | 30 – 1/16000 | 6400 | 4K 3840 x 2160 (30p, 25p) | Yes | 11.5 | 4.4 x 2.7 x 1.6 |
6 | Nikon Coolpix P1000 | 8.6 | $996.95 | 16.1 | 125 | 1/2.3 inch | f 2.8 | 30 – 1/4000 | 6400 | 4K 3840 x 2160 (30p, 25p) | Yes | 49.9 | 5.8 x 4.7 x 7.1 |
7 | Canon PowerShot SX740 HS | 8.4 | $399.00 | 20.3 | 40 | 1/2.3 inch | f 3.3 | 15 – 1/3200 | 3200 | 4K 3840 x 2160 (30p) | Yes | 10.5 | 4.3 x 2.5 x 1.6 |
8 | Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX80 | 8.2 | $318.00 | 18.2 | 30 | 1/2.3 inch | f 3.5 | 30 – 1/2000 | 12800 | HD 1920 x 1080 (60p, 60i, 30p, 25p) | Yes | 8.6 | 4.0 x 2.3 x 1.4 |
9 | Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80 | 8.2 | $297.99 | 18.1 | 60 | 1/2.3 inch | f 2.8 | 60 – 1/16000 | 6400 | 4K 3840 x 2160 (30p) | Yes | 21.7 | 5.1 x 3.7 x 4.7 |
10 | Nikon Coolpix B600 | 8.1 | $296.95 | 16.1 | 60 | 1/2.3 inch | f 3.3 | 1 – 1/1600 | 6400 | HD 1920 x 1080 (60i, 50i, 30p, 25p) | Yes | 17.6 | 4.8 x 3.2 x 3.9 |
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