If you are a beginning photographer or you simply want to capture the moment with better image quality or greater zoom range than could be delivered by your smartphone, then a point-and-shoot camera is probably what you are looking for. 

Point-and-shoot cameras which are also known as compact digital cameras are friendly in many ways because of the automatic settings. You don’t need to be a pro to use these cameras although they could also include features that you could fiddle with to capture greater shots. Further, these cameras are more compact and less expensive than  DSLR which makes them a more popular option. 

To clinch a sweet deal that would serve your planned applications, you need to check out the camera’s capabilities, especially in terms of product durability, image quality, and zoom. Hence, together with SolidSmack’s camera expert, Evangeline Summers, we have summarized in this article the top 5 point-and-shoot cameras that were tried and tested to help you capture your finest moments.

Best Point & Shoot Cameras Comparison & Rating

Point & Shoot Cameras

Features

Panasonic LUMIX ZS100 4K Point and Shoot Camera, 10X LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT F2.8-5.9 Lens with Hybrid O.I.S., 20.1 Megapixels, 1 Inch High Sensitivity Sensor, 3 Inch LCD, DMC-ZS100S (USA SILVER)
  • 20.1 effective megapixels
  • 5-axis correction
  • optical zoom of 10X
Canon PowerShot Digital Camera [G7 X Mark II] with Wi-Fi & NFC, LCD Screen, and 1-Inch Sensor - Black, 100 - 1066C001
  • 20.1 megapixel
  • 4.2X optical zoom lens
  • f/1.8-2.8 lens, and ISO of up to 12,800
OLYMPUS Tough TG-6 Waterproof Camera, Red
  • 4 macro shooting modes
  • 2X digital teleconverter that allows you to zoom to 8X
  • F2.0 high-resolution lens with offers 4X optical zoom
Panasonic LUMIX FZ80 4K Digital Camera, 18.1 Megapixel Video Camera, 60X Zoom DC VARIO 20-1200mm Lens, F2.8-5.9 Aperture, Power O.I.S. Stabilization, Touch Enabled 3-Inch LCD, Wi-Fi, DC-FZ80K (Black)
  • 1 /2.3 inch MOS, 18.1 megapixel
  • 4K videos at a high-speed rate of 30 frames per second
  • FZ80K long-zoom camera to deliver a 60X zoom
Sony DSCHX80/B High Zoom Point & Shoot Camera (Black)
  • 30X optical zoom
  • 8.2 megapixel, 1/2.3" Exmor R CMOS sensor
  • Tru-Finder with about 638 dots resolution

1. Panasonic LUMIX ZS100 4K Point-and-Shoot Camera

Panasonic LUMIX ZS100 4K Point and Shoot Camera, 10X LEICA DC VARIO-ELMARIT F2.8-5.9 Lens with Hybrid O.I.S., 20.1 Megapixels, 1 Inch High Sensitivity Sensor, 3 Inch LCD, DMC-ZS100S (USA SILVER)
Specifications:
98% Overall

Sensor

1-inch MOS sensor, 20.9 Total Megapixels

Optical Zoom

10X

Dimensions

1.7 x 4.4 x 2.5 inches

Weight

11 ounces

98%
Durability
98%
picture quality
99%
ease of use
98%
value for money
Pros:
  • Designed with large 1-inch high sensitivity MOS sensor, with 20.1 effective megapixels for high-quality image  even in low light.
  • Built with LEICA zoom lens.
  • Optical zoom of 10X for better capture of more distant subjects.
  • 5-axis correction to prevent the blurring of images due to unsteady holding of the camera.
  • Built with a premium processor to support the capture of high-quality pictures and high-speed processing for 4K videos.
  • Allows capture of 4K video at a high speed of 30 frames per second.
  • Offers quick autofocus (AF) for a better experience.
  • Post focus feature allows refocusing of the image after capture.
  • Built with an electronic viewfinder and touch-enabled LCD.
  • Comes with a control ring which is lens-mounted to allow control of exposure.
Cons:
  • Small but not compact enough to tuck into your shirt pocket.
  • More expensive than the competition which could be due to the larger image sensor which creates high-quality images.
Final Take:

Panasonic LUMIX ZS100 is a point-and-shoot camera that offers desirable features that could make traveling a much exciting adventure to experience and record. This allows you to capture great quality images and videos. 

“One of the misconceptions that people tend to hold is that a great quality image is just a matter of more megapixels. That is not correct, however. In reality, image quality is influenced by other factors such as the type and the size of sensors.  Compared to other compact digital cameras, Panasonic LUMIX ZS100’s 1-inch sensor and 20.1 effective megapixels allows capture of good images even in low light conditions,” Summers said. 

As sensors are usually the priciest piece in your camera, larger sensors could naturally bump up their price tag. Given the quality of performance and images and videos it could produce though, this camera is worth the price. Add to that the 4K images and videos and its great zoom capability. 

Another interesting feature that I really appreciate in this camera is the post focus. This is a feature you won’t find in many point-and-shoot cameras. LUMIX ZS100 also shares many similar features with Lumix LX10 which is almost at the same price range. However, this product has a greater zoom compared to Lumix LX10’s 3X. Indeed, this is a point-to-shoot camera that could rival DSLR capabilities.

2. Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II Digital Camera

Canon PowerShot Digital Camera [G7 X Mark II] with Wi-Fi & NFC, LCD Screen, and 1-Inch Sensor - Black, 100 - 1066C001
Specifications:
98% Overall

Sensor

20.1 Megapixel*, 1.0-inch CMOS

Optical Zoom

4.2X

Dimensions

1.65 x 2.4 x 4.15 inches

Weight

16 ounces

97%
Durability
98%
picture quality
98%
ease of use
98%
value for money
Pros:
  • Features 20.1 megapixel, 1.0-inch CMOS to deliver high-quality images.
  • Comes with a fast 4.2X optical zoom lens to get take a closer shot at your subjects.
  • Digital zoom of 4X for more visualization.
  • Offers f/1.8-2.8 lens, and ISO of up to 12,800 for great precision optics.
  • Supports capture of actions with continuous shooting of up to 8 fps.
  • Built with a high-resolution 3 inch LCD.
  • Supports shooting at creative angles with LCD that could be angled up and down  (180° and 45° respectively).
  • Offers 8 presets in picture style to fine-tune your images.
  • Ease in connecting to devices and sharing of files through built-in wireless connectivity.
Cons:
  • No optical viewfinder.
  • Has a lower optical zoom capability.
Final Take:

For a point-and-shoot camera built with a 20.1 megapixel, 1.0-inch CMOS image sensor, this camera at its price tag, is a great option to consider. It is packed with great features designed to deliver impressive image qualities. 

“A 1.0-inch image sensor coupled with more around 20 megapixels is a nice combination that could deliver great image quality. This may not seem very apparent in bright light photography, but in low-light image capture, this delivers better results that would be hard to obtain with  smaller sensors,” Summers stated. 

Indeed, in terms of image quality, this camera was built to make sure you would not be disappointed. Further, compared to a similar Canon model, G7X offers higher optical zoom at 4.2 compared to G9X’s 3.0X. You would also appreciate that it has very responsive touch controls. Its tiltable screen is just a nice bonus.

3. OLYMPUS Tough TG-6 Waterproof Camera

OLYMPUS Tough TG-6 Waterproof Camera, Red
Specifications:
97% Overall

Sensor

1/2.33 inch CMOS , 12 Megapixels

Optical Zoom

4X

Dimensions

2.6 x 4.4 x 1.3 inches

Weight

9 ounces

98%
Durability
95%
picture quality
95%
ease of use
98%
value for money
Pros:
  • Designed to ensure toughest conditions  (dustproof, shockproof, crushproof, freezeproof).
  • Waterproof performance up to 15 meters deep.
  • Designed with dual-pane glass to protect the lens from fogging due to changing temperatures.
  • Designed with F2.0 high-resolution lens with offers 4X optical zoom.
  • Comes with 1/2.33 inch CMOS with 12 megapixels, and the latest image processor to deliver images with nice details.
  • Comes with a 2X digital teleconverter that allows you to zoom to 8X.
  • Anti-reflective coating  on both sides of the image sensor’s sealing glass minimizes flares.
  • Supports shooting and processing of RAW format.
  • 4 macro shooting modes which include microscope mode, microscope control mode, focus stacking, and focus bracketing.
  • Offers face detection AF, peaking function, and AF illuminator.
Cons:
  • Video stabilization could be better.
Final Take:

If you are hard on your camera, you surely need something more rugged. We therefore suggest that you take a look at OLYMPUS Tough TG-6 which could withstand some beating from the toughest conditions. It is shockproof for up to 7 feet, crushproof for up to 100 kgf, and freezeproof for up to -10℃. This makes it a more compatible buddy to take in your winter expeditions. 

“Needless to say, Tough TG-6  is a tough cam.  Another thing that makes this camera an interesting option, though is its support for macro photography that could give you a closer glimpse to the details of the tiner world,” Summers said.

Not only does this camera offer 4 macro shooting modes, but it also has 2 accessories. One is the LG-1 LED light guide that could light the subject in spite of the shadow that is being cast by your camera. Another is the FD-1 flash diffuser which is useful to shoot in dark conditions and of moving subjects. 

Compared with similar models, TG-6’s LCD display has 1040k dot resolution while TG-4 and TG5 have 460K dots. This rugged point-and-shoot camera also has a special underwater mode that supports circular fisheye photography.  If you want a camera that could tough it out, you better check this out.

4. Panasonic LUMIX FZ80 4K Digital Camera

Panasonic LUMIX FZ80 4K Digital Camera, 18.1 Megapixel Video Camera, 60X Zoom DC VARIO 20-1200mm Lens, F2.8-5.9 Aperture, Power O.I.S. Stabilization, Touch Enabled 3-Inch LCD, Wi-Fi, DC-FZ80K (Black)
Specifications:
97% Overall

Sensor

1 /2.3 inch MOS, 18.1 Megapixel

Optical Zoom

60X

Dimensions

4.69 x 5.13 x 3.71 inches

Weight

21.76 ounces

97%
Durability
98%
picture quality
95%
ease of use
96%
value for money
Pros:
  • Built with 1 /2.3 inch MOS, 18.1 megapixels for nice image qualities.
  • Features an FZ80K long-zoom camera to deliver an impressive 60X zoom.
  • Supports capture of 4K videos at a high-speed rate of 30 frames per second.
  • Permits post focus so you could set focus after the image is captured.
  • Built with 3 inch LCD and high-resolution viewfinder.
  • Comes with an optical image stabilizer.
  • Offers digital zoom of 4X.
  • Supports video clip of up to 29 minutes and 59 seconds long.
  • Ergonomic design for easier grip.
Cons:
  • Has a steep learning curve.
Final Take:

“If you are looking for a point-and-shoot camera with greater zoom range, this is one great option to consider,” Summers expressed while studying the cam.

With 60X optical zoom, along with a great aperture range that is optically stabilized, and a high 18.1 MG sensor packed in a 21.76-ounce camera, this is indeed an impressive camera that would be best for wildlife shooting. Its combination of interesting features allows you to capture interesting and nice images from a safe distance. You could also do bird watching through this camera with much greater ease. 

This product offers more megapixels compared to a similar model of LUMIX FZ300 which has 12.1 MP. Further, it has a 60X zoom while the other has 24X. You would also appreciate the 4K video capture of this camera, which audio works well even with the wind. Its 30 fps capability also ensures that you won’t miss a decisive moment when you attempt to capture actions.

5. Sony DSCHX80/B High Zoom Point-and-Shoot Camera

Sony DSCHX80/B High Zoom Point & Shoot Camera (Black)
Specifications:
96% Overall

Sensor

1/2.3" Exmor R CMOS sensor, 8.2 Megapixel

Optical Zoom

30X

Dimensions

6.25 x 5 x 2.75 inches

Weight

18.4 ounces

96%
Durability
95%
picture quality
95%
ease of use
96%
value for money
Pros:
  • Offers impressive 30X optical zoom for closer shots using ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* lens.
  • Clear image with a digital zoom of 60X.
  • Comes with an 8.2 megapixel, 1/2.3" Exmor R CMOS sensor for nice quality pictures and videos.
  • Designed with Tru-Finder with about 638 dots resolution which displays the images as they will be recorded, along with camera effects.
  • Convenient connection of the camera with a smartphone through Wi-Fi and NFC for control and quick transfer of images.
  • Reduced blur through the 5-axis image stabilization feature.
  • Multi-angle 3 inch (921k dots) LCD which rotates to about 180 degrees supports capture of selfie images.
  • Captures 18.2 MP resolution images at the rate of 10 fps with a shutter lag of about  0.008 seconds.
  • Designed with Lock-On AF which keeps track of the subject in focus in spite of movements.
Cons:
  • Has limited low light performance due to smaller image sensor.
Final Take:

If you’re planning for hiking and wildlife photography that requires capturing of images from far distances, you surely would need a camera that could take your subjects closer through its zoom capabilities while delivering nice shots. 

“One of the reasons why you should consider this camera would be its great zoom range. Not only does this camera deliver 30X optical zoom, but it also has a digital zoom through its BIONZ X processor that enables the creation of new pixels based on selected patterns for better quality images,” Summers said.  

Another feature you would probably like in this point-and-shoot camera is the lock-on AF which allows you to select the subject to be the focal point. This way, the camera will keep your subject in focus in spite of movements. Further, it is designed to reduce blur caused by camera shake when you are recording videos or movies. For its price, this point-and-shoot camera indeed holds impressive capabilities packed in a very compact form.

Best Point-and-Shoot Cameras - Buyer's Guide

image quality

We often look at image quality in terms of megapixels. While the number of effective megapixels is nice, we should also be concerned about the image sensors. This determines the size and resolution of the image, as well as its performance in low light. Many point-and-shoot cameras use 1/2.3 inch image sensors. Others however have a larger 1-inch image sensor which could deliver better quality images.

ease of use

A lot of cameras have really nice and interesting features which correspond to an additional rate. However, the main point why many people opt for a point-and-shoot camera is to capture views and moments in less complex ways. Hence, a great compact digital camera must allow you to capture great images even without professional experience.

flexibility

Ease of use is important in a point-and-shoot camera. However, you should also look into the features that allow you to tweak the settings and experiment for better image capture for various conditions. These could include aperture, zoom, and shutter speed among others.

durability

We surely want travel or regular moment-capturing buddy that would not let us down after a few uses or exposure to varied conditions. Hence we would like to look at designs that would be more resistant to shock and tough conditions like extreme temperatures.

battery

What use is a great camera if it dies on you the moment you could have captured that decisive moment? Yes, you could always have an extra battery. Nonetheless, it is still a great advantage if the point-and-shoot camera that you will be taking in your travels would last longer to allow you to capture more fun.

Best Point-and-Shoot Cameras - FAQs

What is the difference between a point-and-shoot camera and a DSLR?

Point-and-shoot cameras differ from DSLR in terms of performance speed, image quality, size, and cost. A point-and-shoot camera is easier to use because it takes care of many of the automatic settings. Further, it is more compact and cheaper to use. On the other hand, a DSLR that delivers better photos and allows more creativity requires more skill and cost.

What is a better image sensor?

A large sensor could make better quality images. The difference with cameras with smaller sensors might be acceptable in bright lights, but it becomes significant in low-light captures.

Do more megapixels equate better image quality?

Having more megapixels does not automatically mean better image quality because the image quality is affected by other factors such as sensor and pixel sizes.

Should I get a point-and-shoot camera when I already have a smartphone camera?

A smartphone camera offers more portability and better storage. However, a point-and-shoot camera could have larger sensors (which could make better image quality). Further, a camera also allows you to experiment more on your photography by fiddling with settings such as the shutter speed or zoom.

Author

Santi Bongco is an editor at SolidSmack which is the leading site for 3D CAD, robots, cool product designs, and other technologies. For the past seven years, he taught robotics and developed innovative 3D printer ideas with his students. He also helped in developing some innovative digital ideas and products for various digital marketing businesses and big companies in Asia. Now, aside from exploring buffet restos in California, he enjoys leading groups of our in-house experts in trying some of your favorite products and electronic brands to write insightful reviews for you. PS: He loves reviewing appliances and taking them home to personally ‘try’ them.