No matter how good our smartphone cameras are, they always seem to let us down at the worst times. Whether it’s trying to snap that great shot of a sunset on vacation or capturing that hilarious moment at a family reunion, sometimes we just can’t rely on them.
Enter the compact camera, a small, lightweight camera with built-in flash that allows users to take casual photos in an easy way.
If you think we’re talking about those chunky cameras you had in the 2000s where photos looked so blurry before you even started to consider using the zoom button, then think again because compact cameras have come a long way since then and now come with a host of features that your smartphone camera could only dream of being able to do.
What to Consider When Buying a Compact Camera
With thousands of compact cameras on the market and most of them at a high price, it can seem difficult to know which one is right for you. That’s why we’ve got some tips on what to look out for when shopping.
More importantly, you need to think about how you will use a compact camera. If you’re looking to take a few family photos on vacation, a simple, inexpensive model with flash may do the trick.
On the other hand, if you are a photography enthusiast and are looking for a state-of-the-art compact camera, you might want to make sure your camera has features like 4K video, long optical zoom and microphone jack (especially handy for all vloggers). the low).
You should also consider other factors such as the size of the camera and its durability, especially for those who love their outdoor or aquatic activities, as some compact cameras are designed to survive the elements, while others are less so.
If you’re worried about the sleekness of a compact camera, fear not that many models have outgrown the ‘only your dad would wear one’ era and come in a range of cool colors and shapes.
With all that in mind, we’ve rounded up the best compact cameras on the market, from fashionable snappers to cutting-edge gadgets.
Canon SX740HS
Best for: large zoom function
If you are looking to take photos and videos that require zoom, this camera is ideal as it comes with an incredible 40x optical zoom. It also has amazing 4K movie resolution which means no more blurry videos.
As one of the smallest cameras we’ve reviewed, this is a great buy for anyone planning to take their camera on vacation, as it fits perfectly in a pocket, you don’t have to. so no need to sacrifice your luggage space. The flip-forward screen makes it easy and simple to use.
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Sony Vlog ZV-1 Camera
Best for: vloggers
If content creation is your thing and you love trying out the latest TikTok trend, nothing else rivals the Sony Vlog Camera. Featuring a selfie-ready LCD screen, recording light, and grip, this camera is perfect for taking videos and photos on the go.
We particularly liked the camera-mounted 3-pickup microphone that cuts out background wind noise, making your voice sound clearer – perfect for outdoor vlogging. The ZV-1 is also compatible with Sony’s Bluetooth grips, making recording even easier.
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Polaroid Go Instant Camera
Best for: Fashionable photographers
This iconic camera with its characteristic retro look is far from retro in terms of features. We like the addition of a selfie mirror, self-timer and micro USB charger to make it work. As one of the smallest compact cameras on the market (designed for one-handed use), you can take this nifty gadget on the go as it slips easily into most pockets.
If you’re looking to buy the Polaroid Go, look for deals that include film sets so you can start shooting instantly.
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Digital camera, BRIHIEVY FHD 1080P
Best for: Child-friendly camera
If you’re looking for a bargain, look no further than this digital camera priced at just over £50. Available in different colors, including blue, black, and pink, Amazon’s compact camera is a great camera for kids and teens who want to take their own photos.
It comes with a built-in 32GB SD card, so there’s plenty of room for trial and error to pull off the perfect shot. Weighing just 220g, the camera is also lightweight and can easily be placed in a pocket or backpack. Despite its lightweight size, it is quite sturdy and can endure a lot.
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Fujifilm X100V digital camera
Best for: professional shooters
As one of the more expensive cameras on our list, you’d expect this option from Fujifilm to do a lot, and it does. The X100V is the fifth camera in the X100 series and has been redesigned to be much more ergonomic and weatherproof while retaining its classic retro look.
The new features of this camera include a Color Chrome lens which helps to automatically increase the contrast of images and autofocus which helps capture fast moving objects without the blur.
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OLYMPUS Tough TG-6 waterproof camera
Best for: Travelers
If you’re looking to capture your last moves down the slope or that treacherous dive into the sea, this camera is your best friend as we found it to be the toughest of the cameras we reviewed.
The TG-6 has qualities such as waterproof up to 15 meters, shock, freezing up to -10 degrees, dust and an anti-fog coating, which makes it perfect for all adventures. It also ensures that your images are of high quality even if the light quality is poor.
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Polaroid Now+ i‑Type Instant Camera
Best for: cool shots
Polaroid’s latest camera is the Now+ which comes in a range of stylish colors from mint green to orange. If you’re not a nature photographer, this camera is ideal because its dual-lens autofocus system automatically decides which lens is best for the shot.
In terms of getting that artistic shot, the camera has built-in double exposure so you can capture two images in one image. If you’re looking to change the color of your photos, the 5 included lens filters, whose colors include red vignette and starburst, will do just that.
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SONY W800 compact camera
Best for: Economic
If you want a camera that will take great photos but the high prices of many compact cameras are holding you back, then this Sony W800 is perfect for just over £100. This compact camera is perfect for everyday use, features 5x zoom and HD video shooting.
This camera is also ideal for those looking to capture the atmosphere of parties, gatherings and events. This camera’s ‘party mode’ feature automatically adjusts key settings to help produce the perfect party shot, meaning there’s no more hassle with the flash button.
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Vintage Barrel Sure Shot
Best for: vintage photos
If you want your photos to look retro from the 90s, this vintage Canon camera is at your fingertips. Featuring auto 35mm point and shoot, three times zoom capabilities, auto flash and self-timer, this camera is guaranteed to take the coolest shots.
We also like the in-camera three-point Smart Autofocus system which delivers sharp photos and reduces blur even if the subject is far away or off-center. In fact, with this compact camera, you can place your subject as close as two feet from the camera or as far away as you want.
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