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Compact cameras they're a great option if you're looking for something light and portable. Despite their small size, compact cameras pack a ton of impressive features, all in one efficient package. They have large sensors and fast lenses, which means you can get high-quality images anywhere. Their small size makes them easy to throw in your bag, luggage or even in your pocket, so you can take high-quality photos no matter where you travel.
Many of these models offer manual controls and the ability to shoot in RAW, which can give you DSLR-like flexibility when taking photos. Some have wide aperture lenses, which give you betterlight performance
If you want a simple and portable camera to capture life's moments, a compact camera is a good choice. Whether you want to take tons of photos of your kids, a compact camera has you covered. Below are some of our favorite options.
The best compact cameras
Best overall compact camera: Sony RX100 VII
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The Sony RX100 VII packs a 1-inch, 20MP sensor in a shirt-pocket body, delivering image quality that rivals many of its interchangeable-lens camera competitors. Its 24-200mm zoom lens offers great variety for shooting landscapes, portraits and other types of photography.
This compact camera also has very fast autofocus and shooting speeds of up to 20 fps, so it can capture even fast action shots with ease. It is also capable of recording 4K videos with microphone input. At the end of the day, no other compact camera matches the combination of portability, image quality and performance of the RX100 VII. If you want pro-level photos and videos from a camera you can take anywhere, the RX100 VII is the clear choice, but expect to pay for it.
Best compact camera for video: Sony ZV-1
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This camera is great for taking photos, but it's also your best bet for shooting videos. It has a 1-inch sensor capable of capturing high-quality 4K images, along with a fast hybrid AF system that easily changes the focus of the lens when shooting for a more cinematic effect. Its variable-angle touchscreen also lets you control and adjust settings on the fly.
But what makes the ZV-1 shine are features designed specifically for vlogging and live streaming, such as the three-capsule directional microphone and product presentation mode. If you want high-quality video and audio in a compact form factor, the ZV-1 is a top choice that dwarfs many smartphones and standard points. There's a lot to love here in one reasonably priced package.
Best premium compact camera: Leica Q3
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Get ready to pay a mind-blowing price for the best premium compact camera you can get. You might get sticker shock, but this is the best of the best you'll find.
The Leica Q3 offers the pinnacle of image quality and craftsmanship in a compact camera, so it's well worth the money. With a full-frame sensor and a super sharp 28mm f/1.7 fixed lens, the Q3 can give you some of the most amazing results you'll see compared to larger interchangeable lens cameras. While not as pocketable as other compacts, the Q3 is still surprisingly portable, especially with its large sensor and lens specs.
The Q3's excellent build quality and manual control dials also give you a luxurious shooting experience. Unlike Leica's other rangefinder models, the Q3 can use autofocus to capture some of the most important moments you need to immortalize. It may not be as fast as some pro-level DSLRs, but the autofocus makes this camera more versatile compared to manual focus-only Leica models. If you're looking for excellent image quality in a model with a compact size, the Leica Q3 is a luxury option that won't beat you.
Best budget compact camera: Nikon D3500
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The Nikon D3500 is a capable and affordable choice for new photographers looking to upgrade from their smartphone or point-and-shoot. It has a 24MP APS-C sensor and a battery life of up to 1,550 shots per charge. It also has a user-friendly design, especially for novice users who also hope to use longer lenses.
There's a strong, sturdy grip and a lighter body so you don't have to worry about the camera falling out of your hands. It's a bit sturdier than other compact cameras, but that's a fair trade, considering how useful it is and how accessible it can be for newbies.
In most categories, the Nikon D3500 hits all the right notes with a combination of great image quality, battery life, and an ergonomic design, all for under $500.
The best compact instant camera: Polaroid Go
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The Polaroid Go stands out as one of the smallest and easiest-to-use options you'll find. While this is an instant camera that's used more for fun shots than serious photography, it's worth picking up if you end up shooting a lot of candids, and it's the best you'll find.
Its retro design and compact form make it very portable and convenient to take quick snapshots that you can share. Print instant credit card-sized photos with rich colors and instant gratification. Its simple interface and point-and-shoot operation make it one of the best choices for kids for beginners looking for a new and hassle-free photography experience. Obviously, it's not as feature-rich as many of the other compact cameras, but it's so much fun that no one will resist it.
Also, who can print funny photos anymore?
Brittany Vincent
