The best point and shoot digital cameras in 2024

With so many options today, choosing the best point-and-shoot camera can be a trying task. But there are a few general qualities to consider.  

“First, I’d look for a high-resolution camera. Try for 20 megapixels or above, if you’re looking for a camera you can print large photos from,” says professional photographer and educator Erin Sullivan, who started out on a point-and-shoot camera herself. “Next, look for a wide aperture around [f/] 2.8. This means you can achieve nice bokeh—that pretty blur in the background.” 

Size, weight, weather-proofing, and price are important features too, adds Sullivan. “What’s most important is that you will actually use the camera you buy,” she says. “I always try to picture how a piece of gear will fit into my kit and my lifestyle prior to purchasing.” 

To make shopping easier, we dug deep, poring over research and analyses. After weighing the pros and cons, we chose the Fujifilm X100VI as the best overall point-and-shoot digital camera. We found more great options too. Here are our favorites, plus our expert tips on how to shop for the best point-and-shoot camera. 

Digital Products Best overall: Fujifilm X100VI 

Buy it now at B&H

Why we like it: TikTok largely made the Fujifilm X100VI famous, but the device’s myriad features, from powerful 40.2 megapixel images to 20 film simulations for creative aesthetics, helped it nab the top spot. The Fujifilm X100VI is intuitive and easy for beginners, with subject detection autofocus that harnesses AI to zero in on everything from animals and cars to airplanes. And with the device’s f/2 aperture, photographers can use blurred backdrops to help their subjects stand out. 

The Fujifilm X100VI is more than a good point-and-shoot camera for photography. Its capabilities extend to filmmaking, with 6.2K video at 30p. 

Pros 

• Detail-rich images with 40.2 megapixels 
• High-resolution CMOS sensor promises vibrant colors with impressive low-light capabilities 
• 20 film simulations plus grain and color chrome effects help photographers set their own style 

Cons 

• A 23.5mm fixed lens means limited composition versatility 
• Battery drains quickly, particularly when using electronic viewfinder 
• Expensive at around $1,600, and often higher, due to demand 

Keep in mind: The Fujifilm X100VI is not weather sealed. To help repel dust and moisture, you can purchase the PRF-49 filter (roughly $50). 

Who is this camera for? 

This point-and-shoot camera is a great investment for beginner and mid-level photographers who want a feature-rich camera that will grow with them. In particular, the wide lens and f/2 aperture enable a wide range of shooting possibilities: landscape, travel, street, portrait, and even night-sky photography. 

Product details: Megapixels: 40.2 | Flash type: Built-in | Lens type: Fixed | Camera body dimensions: 2.9 x 5 x 2.2 in. | Weather resistant? No 

Digital Products Best point-and-shoot digital camera for beginners: Panasonic FZ80D 

Buy it now at B&H

Why we like it: The 20-120mm lens makes the Panasonic FZ80D a rare point-and-shoot camera with a powerful zoom range. That glass includes an impressive aperture for the versatile focal length: f/2.8-5.9. It also grants beginners the freedom to experiment with all sorts of imagery, from wide shots of sprawling landscapes to close-ups highlighting wildlife. With 10 frames-per-second shooting, you can test out action photography too.   

Accurate auto focusing via face-detection AF helps nail the focus, while the option for shooting in RAW files lets you dabble further into post-processing. The camera’s 4K video allows for top-notch film production as well. We love that you get all of this for around $450. 

Pros 

• Focal range of 20-1200mm allows for shooting nearly all styles of photography 
• Fast aperture at f/2.8-5.9 promises high-quality imagery 
• Continuous shooting at up to 10 frames per second for action scenes 

Cons 

• Small sensor at 18.1 megapixels means images lack in quality 
• No weather sealing 
• LCD screen doesn’t move 

Keep in mind: The Panasonic FZ80D doesn’t come with weather sealing, so you’ll have to be extra careful around water and dust. While the 18.1 megapixel sensor results in impressive photos for your phone or small prints, the files lack the data for large wall prints. 

Who is this camera for? 

The Panasonic FZ80D is crafted for beginners who want to capture all sorts of subjects, from wide-angle street scenes to close-ups. It’s also a smart camera for logging travel memories thanks to its lens flexibility. However, it’s worth noting that the camera is relatively heavy, weighing just under 1.5 pounds. 

Product details: Megapixels: 18.1 | Flash type: Built-in | Lens type: Zoom | Camera body dimensions: 5.1 x 3.7 x 4.9 in. | Weather resistant? No 

Digital Products Best budget point-and-shoot digital camera: Kodak Pixpro FZ55 

Buy it now at Adorama

Why we like it: At roughly $120, the Kodak Pixpro FZ55 offers immense value for the money. It has a 28mm lens with 5x optical zoom up to 140mm, vibrant colors, a macro mode for tight close-ups, built-in memory, an SD card slot, and a built-in flash. It’s hardly the showiest point-and-shoot camera on the market, but it’s a perfect starter piece. This digital camera is especially great for anyone who wants to record important memories without the often-confusing bells and whistles. 

The 16 megapixel sensor is about as good as it gets at this price. The 1080p video isn’t quite pro level, but it works well enough for recording vacations or baby’s first moments. Novice photographers may also find that the intuitive design makes it easy to navigate the menu and buttons. 

Pros 

• Great value at around $120 
• Intuitive interface that’s easy to use and navigate 
• 5x optical zoom for composition creativity 

Cons 

• Small 16 megapixel sensor and no 4K video 
• No environmental or weather sealing makes it less versatile 
• No Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for transferring images to a smart phone 

Keep in mind: While the compact construction makes the Kodak Pixpro FZ55 ideal for travel, the camera is not weather sealed. Take care in less-than-ideal conditions and around water or dust. 

Who is this camera for? 

The Kodak Pixpro FZ55 is a true beginner camera, built for those who care less about the frills and more about capturing important memories without breaking the bank.   

Product details: 

Megapixels: 16 megapixels | Flash type: Built-in | Lens type: Zoom | Camera body dimensions: 3.6 x 2.2 x 0.9 in. | Weather resistant? No weather sealing 

Digital Products Best point-and-shoot camera with video: Sony ZV-1 II

Buy it now at B&H 

Why we like it: The Sony ZV-1 II is lauded for features like its fully articulating LCD screen and portability that help enhance vlogging. It earned our “best point-and-shoot camera for videos” rank for the high-resolution 4K recording and directional three-capsule microphone. What’s more, an 18-50mm lens allows flexibility for setting the scene, while a wide f/1.8 aperture helps create that polished blurred background aesthetic that directs the viewer’s eye. The lens’ built-in ND filters combat tricky lighting scenes, helping to ensure image quality isn’t lost in bright sunlight or high contrast situations. 

The Sony ZV-1 II may have made a splash among videographers, but it doubles as a photo camera. A 20-megapixel sensor and 24 frames-per-second shooting support action shots and wildlife photography. 

Pros 

• Stunning lens with 18-50mm focal length and fast f/1.8 aperture 
• 4K video at 30p with 1080 for ultra-slow mode 120p 
• Built-in ND filter to level out high-contrast scenes 

Cons 

• Not weather sealed 
• No viewfinder, which makes photography tricky in bright sunlight 
• Poor battery life, recording around 30 minutes of 4K video max on one charge 

Keep in mind: It’s not weather-sealed, so photographers should be mindful when using this point-and-shoot in more rugged situations. Additionally, the camera doesn’t have a viewfinder. You’ll have to get comfortable using the LCD screen. 

Who is this camera for? 

The Sony ZV-1 II is a video-first camera. It’s great for travel and documentary filmmakers, as well as vloggers, given the fully articulating LCD screen and wide aperture for blurred backgrounds. The camera is especially primed for videographers who also need high-quality photo capabilities. 

Product details: Megapixels: 20.1 megapixels | Flash type: No flash (sold separately) | Lens type: Zoom | Camera body dimensions: 4.1 x 2.4 x 1.8 in. | Weather resistant? No 

Digital Products Best waterproof point-and-shoot camera: Olympus TG-7 

Buy it now at B&H

Why we like it: The Olympus (now rebranded as OM System) TG-7 is as good as point-and-shoot underwater cameras get. According to the manufacturer, the TG-7 is waterproof down to 50 feet without any housing—that’s almost the maximum depth for general scuba certifications (60 feet). If you want to dive deeper, the Olympus TG-7 pairs with the PT-059 underwater housing ($350), which the manufacturer claims supports photography down to nearly 150 feet. 

We’re especially impressed by this camera’s macro capabilities. According to the company, this point-and-shoot can focus as close as a centimeter—ideal for capturing images of interesting marine flora and fauna. While the 12 megapixel sensor may leave photographers craving better image quality, the lens’ flash and quick aperture (f/2-f/4.9) allow for as much low light versatility as one can expect from a camera that costs $500. 

Bonus: With a crushproof rating of up to 220 pounds and shockproof capacity up to seven feet, this camera is built for land too. 

Pros 

• Waterproof down to 50 feet on its own; to 150 feet with additional housing 
• Maximum aperture of f/2 allows for shallow depth of field 
• Impressive macrophotography capabilities perfect for marine subjects 

Cons 

• Image quality lacks with a 12 megapixel sensor 
• Video recording is listed at 29 minutes for 4K and 1080p, but third party review sites have noted as low as five minutes, due to file size limitations 
• Menu navigation isn’t straightforward   

Keep in mind: The 12mp sensor hinders this camera’s printing capabilities, particularly for larger sizes. 

Who is this camera for? 

This camera is perfect for hobbyists who want to capture their underwater adventures without spending thousands. That said, photographers who want to level up their game or sell images may want to invest in a higher-cost, mirrorless system with an underwater housing. 

Product details: Megapixels: 12 megapixels | Flash type: Built-in | Lens type: 25-100mm | Camera body dimensions: 4.5 x 2.6 x 1.3 in. | Weather resistant? Yes 

Digital Products Best digital point-and-shoot camera for travel: Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II 

Buy it now at Adorama

Why we like it: Despite its compact, travel-friendly size (it weighs less than a pound), the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II packs a big punch, starting with its powerful lens. The 24-100mm glass has a quick f/1.8-2.8 aperture, which means travelers can take portraits with bokeh backdrops and highlight a gourmet dish in low light without compromising quality. The 4.2x optical zoom also promises versatility, whether you’re narrowing in on a red-tailed squirrel or zooming out across Tokyo’s Shibuya Crossing. 

The 20.1-megapixel sensor captures high-resolution images with realistic colors that require minimal grading or editing time. The single-shot autofocus performs well on stationary subjects, while the built-in “picture style” function gives photographers eight presets, including portrait and landscape modes, for experimenting. 

Pros 

• Fast 24-100mm f/1.8-2.8 lens promises high image quality 
• RAW conversion for editing within the camera to save on post-processing time 
• Versatile touch-panel and glare-free LCD that tilts up 180 degrees and down 45 degrees 

Cons 

• Subpar battery life at roughly 265 shots per charge means extra batteries are critical 
• Continuous autofocus is not reliable with fast-moving subjects 
• No 4k video option 

Keep in mind: The video capabilities on this travel-friendly camera are noticeably lacking. It only shoots up to 1080p and the film-time is limited to 30 minutes. 

Who is this camera for? 

The compact Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II is best for travelers who don’t want to invest in (or lug around) high-end mirrorless or DSLR cameras. It works well for beginners and hobbyists who prioritize capturing memories but may want to experiment with creative photography down the road.  

Product details: Megapixels: 20.1 megapixels | Flash type: Pop-up | Lens type: Zoom | Camera body dimensions: 4.2 x 2.4 x 1.7 in. | Weather resistant? No 

Digital Products How we chose the best compact camera  

To compile our list of best point-and-shoot digital cameras, we pored over online resources, including product descriptions, photography blogs, and YouTube videos. We also incorporated personal knowledge from professional photographer and educator Erin Sullivan and our own work as professional travel photographers and filmmakers. We also considered the following during our analysis:    

• Third-party reviews: We researched whether brand promises stood up to the professionals’ tests. When features fell short, we weighed that against the price. We also assessed customers’ test shots to determine image quality. 
• Brand reputation: When you buy a camera, you want to trust the brand that makes it. That’s why we largely focused on established and reliable brands recognized by the photography industry. We also stuck with brand reputation for reliable servicing, which can be tricky to find with off-brand products. 
• Competitor articles: We dove into competitor articles to ensure the third-party reviews and brand promises met rigorous testing by reputable publications. 
• Photography blogs: Digging through photography blogs was important for gathering expert opinions. These experienced photographers know the ins and outs of cameras and highlight potential pain points. 
• YouTube: We watched hours of YouTube videos to understand how these cameras function, taking note of small touches such as how each fits in a person’s hand and whether the screen or buttons seem easy to navigate. 
• Personal experience: As a photographer myself, I considered what I would look for in a point-and-shoot camera, examining every “best-of” category as if I were recommending a point-and-shoot to a specific friend or family member. 

Digital Products Tips for buying a good point-and-shoot digital camera 

Digital Products Zoom 

The type of zoom you need largely depends on how you plan to use your camera. Photographing wildlife or a sports game requires a longer focal length (think at least 200mm). If you’re taking photos of street scenes or architecture, you can get by with a wider focal length of around 35mm. For portraits, try around 50mm. If you’re not sure how you want to use your camera—or want to capture everything—look for a versatile zoom that offers wide angle to telephoto. 

Digital Products Megapixels 

Megapixels (MP) denote the number of pixels in a camera’s sensor, with each MP used to mark one million pixels. The more pixels, or the higher the megapixel count, the greater the detail in your image. Higher megapixels increase image quality while giving photographers more flexibility to crop in when editing without losing quality. 

Digital Products Image quality 

In addition to megapixel count, several elements play into sensor size. First, large sensors let in more light and create higher-resolution images. Look for sensors that are around an inch or larger. The camera lens design also plays a role. Prime lenses typically produce better quality images. If you need a zoom—which is essential for versatility and ideal for travel—look for a lens with a wide aperture across the zoom range, typically around f/2.8-f/4. (However, high-end lens options tend to be more limited with point-and-shoot cameras.) 

Digital Products Viewfinder 

This back-of-camera eyepiece helps you compose the image, focus on the subject, and navigate settings. Many photographers look through the viewfinder when creating their images; in bright sunlight, the viewfinder can work better than the camera’s LCD screen. However, some point-and-shoot cameras only come with LCD screens, not viewfinders. If you plan to grow as a photographer, you may want a point-and-shoot with a viewfinder. They can help in creating composition and reducing shake. Most higher-end cameras have one. 

Digital Products Flash 

Flashes can help you create higher-resolution images in low-light conditions, particularly if you don’t have a tripod handy. Most point-and-shoot cameras come with built-in flashes that produce harsh, unflattering light on your subject. Indeed, professional photographers typically use off-camera flashes for a more natural look. 

If your goal is to capture a memory around sunset, a built-in flash will help. However, if you’re aiming to photograph a landscape after dusk or before dawn, you’re better off using a tripod and experimenting with long-exposure photography, which is available in the best point-and-shoot cameras. 

Digital Products Focus 

Nearly all point-and-shoot cameras come with autofocus, which enables the camera to put the most distinct subject into focus automatically. Some higher-end models offer manual focus, which is operated via a ring on the lens that you twist until you achieve the focus you want. For beginners or on-the-go photographers, autofocus usually suffices because manual can take time to perfect in the field. Some digital cameras offer touch focus, which allows you to touch the subject you want in focus on the LCD screen, just like on some smart phones. It’s a quick, in-between option for photographing on the go. 

Digital Products Battery 

Battery life is another important consideration when choosing a point-and-shoot camera. The higher shots per battery charge, the better. Most point-and-shoot cameras offer around 300 to 400 or more shots. However, more budget-friendly options may dip below that. If you plan on taking a lot of photos on a safari, for example, look for a camera with a longer battery life. If you’re just taking a handful of casual photos here and there, battery life shouldn’t be as much of a concern. Consider a spare or more, however, if you plan to travel. 

Digital Products Accessories 

In addition to the camera and lens, consider add-on purchases like a tripod for stabilization or long-exposure shots, a camera bag for protecting your investment, and extra batteries. Memory cards are also essential, as are cleaning kits with lens wipes. A dry bag is a must for taking a non-weather-resistant camera on an adventure. 

Digital Products Price 

With cameras, you largely get what you pay for. That’s why it’s important to know how you want to use your camera. If you hope to capture family memories but care less about large prints or honing your craft, you can find an easy-to-use camera for around $100 to $200. If you want to excel in your craft, consider investing $500 to $1,000 or so on a high-quality point-and-shoot camera. It can be a large investment, but these cameras will help your images stand out and grow with you as you practice. 

Digital Products Frequently asked questions 

Digital Products What’s the difference between a digital and film point-and-shoot camera? 

A digital point-and-shoot camera captures images via an electric sensor, while a film camera cements the images on a strip of film. Digital photography has myriad advantages. It’s significantly less expensive to take heaps of photographs on a memory card than paying for rolls of film, and you can monitor and adjust your work in real time. That said, film photography is making a comeback for its ability to capture rich imagery and aesthetics as well as the slow, intentional process of photographing without real-time feedback. 

Digital Products How much should you spend on a digital point-and-shoot camera? 

What you should pay depends largely on what you need out of a camera. If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to record memories, expect to pay around $100 to $200 for a reliable, functional camera. However, lower-priced cameras will have fewer features and image quality will be so-so compared to higher-end devices. For those looking to harness their photography skills or dabble into future careers in the field or to push their creativity to the limit, aim for a camera on the higher end, around $600 to $1,000. 

Digital Products What are the disadvantages of buying a point-and-shoot digital camera? 

Higher-end cameras, such as mirrorless and DSLRs, typically offer better image quality, versatility for interchangeable lenses, more control over settings, and a better battery life. But today’s point-and-shoots are pushing the envelope of what’s possible. Some photos created with these compact devices rival those shot on higher-end DSLRs or mirrorless cameras.