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The Best Point-And-Shoot Cameras Capture Amazing Photos With Ease

The best point-and-shoot cameras in 2022 have their advantages—particularly for capturing great-looking images on the go. The cameras built into the latest smartphones (including the Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max, Google Pixel 6 Pro or the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra) can produce images that rival those from point-and-shoot cameras. But standalone point-and-shoot cameras remain a strong choice for amateur, enthusiast and professional photographers alike.

These cameras are typically small in size and weight compared with their larger mirrorless or digital SLR cousins. Some have ruggedized designs or extra-long zoom lenses. All offer an Auto mode, which means you simply frame shots using the viewfinder or rear display and then press the shutter button to snap a photo. Most also offer specialty photo preset modes for use in specific situations. All can shoot at least high-definition video, and many can shoot 4K or higher resolution video.

Whatever your photography needs, budget or skill level, you can find a point-and-shoot camera to boost your image game. Let’s release your inner Ansel Adams and take a look at 12 of the best point-and-shoot cameras for 2022.


Best Point-And-Shoot Camera Overall

The Compact And Versatile GR IIIx Produces Great Images

Ricoh GR IIIx

Camera Type: Point-and-shoot | Resolution: 24.2MP (still images) | Weight: 1.4 pounds | 

Who it’s for: This pocket-size point-and-shoot camera has a fixed lens and wide aperture, making it ideal for capturing sharp images in many types of shooting situations.

The Ricoh GR IIIx uses a wide-aperture fixed 40 mm f2.8 lens, and it packs an APS-C sensor—larger than the typical point-and-shoot camera has. Those attributes together make this camera strong great for capturing images that are close to your eye’s field-of-view—even in low light. These core features make this a great camera choice for street photography, portraits and a range of everyday photos. In Auto mode the camera basically sets itself up for you, based on your current shooting situation. When you switch to manual mode, you gain full creative control over your photography experience. 

The lightweight magnesium alloy body makes the camera sturdy, and the generous built-in camera grip makes it easy to hold. It has shake reduction to reduce the impact from vibration. If you want a traditional electronic viewfinder (as opposed to using the three-inch rear touchscreen display which is not adjustable), you can attach the GV-3 as an optional accessory.

Pros:

  • Sharp, wide-aperture fixed lens
  • Lightweight, sturdy design

Cons:

  • Relatively short battery life
  • Only shoots 1080p video

Best Point-And-Shoot Camera For Beginners

Point, Press And Shoot Using The Lumix ZS100

Panasonic Lumix ZS100

Camera Type: Point-and-shoot | Resolution: 20.1 MP | Weight: 0.68 pounds

Who it’s for: It’s ideal for those looking for a pocket-sized general-purpose camera that capably handles stills and video.

Whether you’re looking to capture breathtaking digital images or eye-popping 4K video, the Panasonic Lumix ZS100 has a wide range of features to meet your everyday shooting needs. The Leica lens has a 1-inch sensor for optimal captures in low-light situations, and a 10x optical zoom that ranges from 25mm to 250mm (35mm equivalent). That means you can switch from wide shots to tight images without changing lenses.

The camera has a slim, smooth body that is perfect for sliding into a pocket. It has full manual control, an unusual find in a point-and-shoot camera that experienced photographers and videographers can appreciated. Another great feature is the built-in 0.2 inch 1,166K-dot electronic viewfinder in addition to the 3-inch rear touchscreen display; electronic viewfinders are a rare find in point-and-shoot cameras. And, this camera has in-body, 5-axis stabilization to mitigate the effects of shake. 

Pros:

  • Has face and eye tracking autofocus
  • Optical zoom lens with long reach
  • Bluetooth-enabled wireless control

Cons:

  • Fixed rear display
  • No weather sealing
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Best Point-And-Shoot Action Camera

GoPro HERO 10 Black Goes Wherever You Go...Even Underwater

GoPro HERO10 Black

Camera Type: Action camera | Max Video Resolution: Up to 5.3K (up to 60 fps) | Still Image Resolution: 23.6 MP | Weight: 0.3 pounds | Viewfinder Type: Front and rear display

Who it’s for: Adventure-seekers whose videography involves action sports or harsh conditions can’t go wrong with this tiny action camera.

Whether you want to capture first- or third-person content, the GoPro Hero 10 Black can be taken and used in ways that most other cameras cannot. Not only is this camera small and powerful, but it has a large ecosystem of attachments, mounts and mods to customize how—and where—you use the camera. Use your camera underwater with a waterproof housing, mount your camera on a helmet, or mount your camera at the base of your skateboard. The possibilities are endless.

When connected to Wi-Fi, the camera can upload your content directly to the cloud. Using Bluetooth, you can easily transfer content to a smartphone, tablet or computer for editing and sharing. Or, pop out the microSD Card. Thanks to the rear and front displays, you can position the camera in any direction and see what you’re shooting. All features are accessible from the rear touchscreen display, and some actions—for example, starting a recording— work via voice commands. The camera can also be remotely controlled via a smartphone, tablet or smartwatch.

Pros:

  • Waterproof and rugged
  • Multiple still image shooting modes
  • Built in GPS records location

Cons:

  • GoPro-branded accessories are expensive
  • Battery life limited

Best 360-Degree Point-And-Shoot Camera

Unique Modular Design Captures 360-Degree Images

Editor’s Pick

Insta360 ONE RS Twin Edition

Camera Type: Action camera | Resolution: 48 MP | Weight: 1.23 pounds

Who it’s for: For outdoor adventurers, this durable, modular action camera is also your best choice for still images thanks to its ability to switch among its wide-angle and 360-degree lens modules.

As its name implies, the Insta360 One RS Twin Edition’s most impressive feature is its modular design. The camera splits into three parts—the lens, the viewfinder/display and the camera base. This design lets you separately position the lens and display to face forwards or backwards, enabling easy selfies. This camera’s design is both versatile and durable, but it lacks the availability of a strong specialty mount ecosystem.

The 4K wide-angle lens captures images at up to 48 megapixels, making it a good choice for landscape or action shots. The 360-degree lens also captures stills at 48 megapixels, and video at up to 5.7K. If used with the optional Insta360 selfie stick, the camera will automatically edit the stick out of your shots, making it invisible. As you’d expect from an action cam, this model has image stabilization.

Pros:

  • Swappable 4K wide-angle lens and 5.7K 360-degree lens modules
  • Active HDR
  • Rugged and waterproof

Cons:

  • Battery life mediocre
  • Finicky rear touchscreen

Best Rugged Point-And-Shoot Camera

Use This Camera Anywhere—Be It Underwater Or In The Desert

Olympus Tough TG-6 Digital Camera

Camera Type: Point-and-shoot | Resolution: 12 MP | Weight: 0.56 pounds

Who it’s for: Someone looking for a rugged, waterproof point-and-shoot camera to take on all of their adventures.

Regardless of where you’re shooting in, the Olympus Tough TG-6 is designed to withstand harsh conditions. Its distinctly rugged design is waterproof up to 50 feet deep, dust proof, drop proof up to 7 feet, crush proof up to 100 kgf, and freeze proof to 14 degree Fahrenheit.

The camera has an 8x optical zoom lens and wide 2.0 aperture. It has four macro shooting modes and 5 underwater modes, and integrated GPS so your images and videos get tagged with your location. The biggest drawback to this camera is its still image resolution, which is just 12 megapixel. When the camera was first released in mid-2019, this might have been acceptable, but by today’s standards, the resolution is just too low. That said, it remains the best pick among rugged cameras available today. The Tough TG-6’s traditional handheld shape and optical zoom lens make it an attractive pick for rugged photography over an action camera like the Go Pro Hero 10—in spite of its lower image resolution.

Pros:

  • Waterproof and rugged
  • Five underwater shooting modes
  • Shoots 4K video

Cons:

  • Comparatively low 12 megapixel resolution

Best Premium Point-And-Shoot Camera

The D-Lux 7 Is An Affordable Leica Camera

Leica D-Lux 7

Camera Type: Point-and-shoot | Resolution: 17 MP | Weight: 0.9 pounds

Who it’s for: Consider this the Rolls-Royce of point-and-shoot cameras. It features Leica’s reknown optics and features that optimize images captured in low light.

Leica cameras typically can cost a few months rent—up to $10,000. The Leica D-Lux 7 brings the Leica’s well-reputed optics and design into a 4K compact camera. While this model is a fixed lens camera, it is distinguished by its Micro Four-Thirds imaging sensor—which is large and more capable in low light than the usual sensors seen in point-and-shoot cameras.

This model has a wide-aperture f1.7 to 2.8 lens, which lets in lots of light. And the lens is a reasonable 24 to 75 mm (35mm equivalent), which gives you enough reach to not have to get right up close to your subject. The D-Lux 7 has both an optical viewfinder and a fixed 3-inch rear touchscreen. It is a versatile camera with convenient top-mounted controls, a dedicated hot-shoe for a flash and a hand-grip to make it easier to hold. It has both integrated Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, and can connect to a smartphone to transfer images. This camera can grow with your photography skills, whether you shoot full auto or use one of the manual modes. And it captures 4K video at up to 60 frames per second as well.

Pros:

  • Wide-aperture lens for low-light use
  • Three-inch fixed touchscreen viewfinder/rear display
  • Shoots 4K video

Cons:

  • No built-in flash

Best Point-And-Shoot Instant Camera

Snap A Photo And Get A Print Quickly

Polaroid Go Instant Mini Camera

Camera Type: Instant Film Camera | Resolution: Generates square (2.12-inch) prints | Weight: 0.66 pounds

Who it’s for: This fun retro-styled compact instant camera produces prints on-the-go.

This Polaroid instant camera is among the smallest in the instant film category. It fits comfortably in hand and is smaller than the vintage Polaroid instant cameras that generated those classic 3.5-inch square images and developed right before your eyes. Instead, the Polaroid Go uses Polaroid’s instant film technology to create a square, 2.12-inch print each time you snap a photo. Each box of film includes eight sheets of instant photo paper. A two box film pack prints 16 photos and sells for $20 on Amazon, making the ongoing costs a bit pricey. The other drawback: It’s analog only, which means you won’t have a digital version of your images.

Once a photo sheet is ejected from the camera, it takes about 15 minutes to develop. The camera is powered by a rechargeable battery. In every aspect, this is a smaller version of a classic Polaroid instant camera—and it’s extremely simple to use.

Pros:

  • Retro, compact design
  • Built-in flash and viewfinder
  • Generates 2.12 inch square prints

Cons:

  • Expensive film packs

Best Point-And-Shoot Camera For Vlogging

Well-Suited To Influencers And Amateur Videographers

Best Features

Sony ZV-1

Camera Type: Point-and-Shoot | Max Video Resolution: 4K (up to 120 fps) | Still Image Resolution: 20.1 MP | Weight: 0.7 pounds | Viewfinder Type: 3-inch touchscreen

Who it’s for: This camera’s design—with its light weight, flip-up screen and subject tracking—caters to the needs of vloggers, social media influencers and streamers. And it takes good still images, too.

The Sony ZV-1 is the top choice for social media influencers and enthusiast videographers on-the-go. It is small and lightweight, making it easy to hold in one-hand while walking and documenting the moment. The LCD display can be flipped outwards and rotated 180-degrees to face forwards or backwards, making it simple to frame yourself in photos or videos. The ZV-1 works well for one-handed operation with Sony’s optional GP-VPT2BT wireless grip and mini-tripod ($60).

The menus and buttons are easy to use, and the camera shoots stunning video while simultaneously capturing high-quality sound thanks to the large, top-mounted microphone and included wind shield. The camera’s one-inch sensor captures high-resolution images in lower light better than a cell phone camera or a typical point-and-shoot camera would. Sony’s bundled Imaging Edge mobile app makes it easy to quickly and wirelessly transfer content to a smartphone for editing and sharing online. The app saves time by auto-formatting videos and photos for specific social media platforms.

Pros:

  • Fully adjustable display/viewfinder
  • 24 fps continuous shooting speed
  • 24-70mm f1.8-2.8 lens

Cons:

  • Premium price for point-and-shoot camera
  • Disappointing battery life

Best Point-And-Shoot Camera for Live-Streaming

Capture Your World In Real-Time

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III

Camera Type: Point-and-shoot | Still Image Resolution: 20.1 MP | Weight: 0.67 pounds | Viewfinder Type: 3-inch rear touchscreen

Who it’s for: This point-and-shoot camera has a small and lightweight design that makes it a joy to shoot with in any occasion.

With its compact design and flip-up rear-display, the PowerShot G7X Mark III is a prime option for social media influencers and YouTubers. It captures 4K video and also serves as a versatile still image camera. The 4.2x optical zoom lens covers 24 to 100mm (35mm equivalent), a reasonable range for casual shooting. Notably, the lens’ aperture ranges from a wide-open f1.8 to f2.8, a tight range that means this is a terrific camera choice for getting the most out of shooting in low light. These impressive optics help account for why the G7 X Mark III is more expensive than the typical point-and-shoot camera.

The PowerShot G7 X Mark III also supports live streaming and has both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity options. It has manual and program mode shooting, with a finger-friendly control dial at top in addition to the touchscreen controls. The camera is small, but it has thoughtful design and a gently curved grip on the right makes it easy to hold.

Pros:

  • Versatile touchscreen display
  • Built-in external microphone port
  • Excellent image stabilization

Cons:

  • No built-in viewfinder

Best Pro-Level Point-And-Shoot Camera

Leave Your DSLR Camera At Home

MOST POPULAR

Sony RX100 VII

Camera Type: Point-and-shoot| Resolution: 20.1 MP | Weight: 0.61 pounds

Who it’s for: This is a feature-packed point-and-shoot camera that’s slim enough to slide into a pocket, and powerful enough to grab sharp images from across field while using manual controls.

The Sony RX100 VII isn’t like other cameras in this category. The RX100 VII has one of the slimmest profiles around for a point-and-shoot, and yet it is still jammed with such enthusiast level components as a 1-inch sensor and far-reaching 24 to 200 mm zoom lens with a reasonable f2.8 to 4.5 aperture. This model’s versatility comes from the winning combination of its manual controls, its tiny size and its ability to capture images in wide variety of circumstances, including low light (less so when maximizing the zoom). The RX100 VII’s has so much flexibility that you can leave your cumbersome DLSR camera at home and take this terrific on-the-go companion instead.

As with other Sony cameras, the RX100 VII has eye-tracking autofocus for humans and animals. The camera’s array of features and shooting modes are accessible via the touchscreen display; the small chassis has little room for buttons and dials. One interesting feature is the pop-up viewfinder, an unusual find in such a small camera.

Pros:

  • Eye-tracking autofocus for humans and animals
  • Shoots 4K video
  • Impressive 24 to 200mm equivalent f2.8-4.5 lens

Cons:

  • Expensive

What Is A Point-And-Shoot Camera?

Point-and-shoot cameras traditionally occupied the lower end of the cost spectrum. But that’s changed over the past decade. While inexpensive models are still out there, today’s point-and-shoot cameras are ever more capable and competitive with more the larger DSLR (digital single lens reflex) and mirrorless cameras offered by companies like Canon, Nikon and Sony. Today’s point-and-shoots focus more on providing better performance in a smaller, lighter container than DSLR and mirrorless cameras can provide. The category has broadened over the years, now encompassing action cameras, ruggedized cameras and instant film cameras. the definition of a point-and-shoot camera is broader than ever, all offer the convenience of portability and the simplicity of Auto shooting modes.

Point-and-shoot cameras are great for capturing places, moments and memories without requiring you to become a master photographer who understands things like aperture, depth-of-field, exposure, ISO, shutter speed and the focal length of a lens. That said, if you’re familiar with these terms or want to grow as a photographer, the more advanced point-and-shoot models—many showcased here—have you covered.

These powerful, compact cameras literally fit in the palm of your hand and have a comparatively negligible carry weight. Aside from a few specialty exceptions, all point-and-shoot cameras take high-resolution digital photos—and many also shoot video at up to 5.7K resolution. All have an Auto mode that makes it a snap to shoot great images; the more advanced models have other presets and manual modes, so you can have maximal control over your creative output. Point-and-shoot cameras have a built-in lens (the exception here is the Insta360R action camera that comes with two lens modules).

What To Consider When Buying A Point-And-Shoot Camera

Before purchasing a point-and-shoot camera, think about the types of pictures you shoot and the conditions under which you shoot. Also think about whether you want a camera that’s super simple to use, or if you’re willing to invest some time and practice learning how to use a more advanced camera.

Here are some other features to look for and things to consider when choosing the ideal point-and-shoot digital camera to meet your needs. Regardless of the camera you choose, remember to tap your creativity, experiment and have fun while you’re snapping photos.

Camera Resolution

A camera’s resolution is measured in megapixels (MP). One megapixel is equal to one million individual pixels (or colored dots). The higher the resolution of the camera, the better, as this will translate into more detailed images with greater color vibrancy and accuracy. A higher resolution image will also allow you to create large-size prints without pixelation and give you greater control when cropping images after they’ve been shot.

In general, you want to take photos in the highest resolution possible. During the editing process, you always have the option of reducing an image’s resolution as needed. However, once a photo has been taken, you cannot enhance its overall resolution easily (without using additional software).

Display / Viewfinder

Some point-and-shoot cameras have a traditional viewfinder you can look through with one eye. However, most do not offer this feature. Many models have a touchscreen display for controlling both the camera and your focal point while framing a shot. Cameras with a traditional viewfinder are easier to use in direct sunlight, when glare and reflections impact a digital display’s clarity.

Some cameras have an articulating display, convenient for capturing low or high angles. If you shoot selfies, look for a display that rotates or flips forward.

Image Stabilization

This feature is most important when you’re shooting video, using the camera’s zoom or taking pictures while you are in motion. For example, image stabilization can help counteract the sway of a moving boat, or the natural minute movements of your hand when shooting handheld video. Without image stabilization, any motion of the camera when you press the shutter button may result in a blurry image.


The Best Accessories For Your Point-And-Shoot Camera

Most point-and-shoot cameras come with what they need to get up and running. Nonetheless, some accessories are required and some will simply make life easier. Read on for the extras worth adding to your arsenal.

Extra Batteries And A Specialty Charger

All point-and-shoot cameras come with a charger or the ability to recharge the camera’s battery by connecting it to an external power source using a supplied USB cable. However, point-and-shoot cameras are not known for having long battery life, by virtue of the simple fact that the batteries are so small. If you shoot video or plan to use the zoom lens, those activities will drain your battery faster.

In most cases, you can purchase genuine replacement batteries from the camera’s manufacturer. However, there are also third-party companies that make OEM batteries that’ll work with your camera, but that will be less expensive. If you use a third-party battery, you may lose some compatibility with the camera’s ability to report battery status, for example. Wasabi Power is an example of a company that sells replacement batteries compatible with popular Canon, Nikon, GoPro, Sony, Fujifilm and Panasonic cameras.

Memory Cards

The majority of point-and-shoot cameras and action cameras do not come with a required memory card. First, determine what type memory card your camera uses. Then, figure out the maximum capacity memory card the camera can support. You'll ultimately want to choose memory cards that offer the fastest read/write speeds available. This means you can do continuous shots, or more speedily transfer images to your computer.

It’s always a good idea to carry around at least one extra memory card. This will allow you to continue taking pictures if the card within the camera reaches its storage capacity. Learn more about some of the best memory cards available by reading, The Best SD Cards And Memory Cards Will Add Fast, Reliable Storage For Your Smartphones, Cameras, Gaming Systems And More.

Tabletop Tripods And Selfie Sticks

Virtually every point-and-shoot camera and action camera has an industry-standard tripod mount on the bottom. This allows you to connect it to any tripod or tabletop tripod. A tabletop tripod or portable tripod is useful for setting up the camera and being able to keep it ultra-steady when taking photos. Gain more shooting flexibility with an adjustable, bendable tripod that contorts to fit anywhere—including mounting on a railing.

GorillaPod 3K PRO Kit

The GorillaPod 3K Pro Kit is an example of a higher-end and extremely versatile portable tripod. What sets it apart is its bendable legs. They allow you to set up a camera on an uneven surface or wrap the legs around an object (such as a railing or tree branch) to hold a camera steady.

Meanwhile, if you’re out and about and your camera is capable of taking selfies, using a Bluetooth selfie stick will allow you to extend the camera out while still holding it and give you much greater creative control over angles when snapping photos of yourself and the people you’re with.

Cases

While most point-and-shoot and action cameras are designed to be self-contained, not all of them are durable. If not carried correctly, you run the risk of scratching the camera’s lens or crushing the camera in a backpack or purse. Some manufacturers sell a case designed to fit the camera; or, seek out a third-party alternative to provide protection for your investment.

Specialty Mounts And Mods

Action cameras typically offer a wide range of optical mounts and mods that make it better suited for shooting in very specific types of situations. For its Hero 10 Black, for example, GoPro offers a wide range of specialty mounts and mods for attaching the camera to your body or specific gear you’re using (such as a bike, surfboard, skis, helmet, vehicle dashboard, or even your dog). GoPro’s mount hasn’t changed over the years, and you can find a healthy selection of third-party attachments and accessories beyond GoPro’s own offerings.

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