Today’s smartphones are world-class picture-making machines, so it’s no surprise that many casual snappers and family photographers have traded in their basic pocket cameras. Point-and-shoot cameras aren’t obsolete, though many made today target photo hobbyists and content creators. I have more than 14 years of experience covering cameras at PCMag, and I’ve tested hundreds of models in that time. I evaluate all aspects of a camera through a combination of studio and field testing to decide what’s worth recommending. This list includes a wide variety of small cameras, from the best premium point-and-shoot I’ve ever used, the Fujifilm X100VI, to the cheap and delightful Camp Snap. Read on to find the right compact camera, regardless of your skill level or budget.
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
EDITORS’ NOTE
November 20, 2025: With this update, our lineup of recommended point-and-shoot cameras remains unchanged. The existing picks have been vetted for currency and availability. Since our last update, we reviewed and evaluated five compact cameras for potential inclusion in this roundup. We currently have one point-and-shoot in for evaluation.
(Credit: Jim Fisher)
(Credit: Jim Fisher)
Pros & Cons
Stunning retro industrial design
Magnesium and aluminum build materials
Clever optical-electronic hybrid viewfinder
Stabilized 40MP image sensor with digital zoom
Wide-aperture prime lens with built-in ND filter
Robust, dial-driven controls
Light, carry-friendly frame
Requires accessories for full weather protection
Why We Picked It
The Fujifilm X100VI delivers a rare combination of style and substance. Its retro exterior calls back to rangefinder cameras from the manual focus film era, but there’s plenty under the surface, too. A bright 35mm f/2 equivalent prime lens means you can stretch shutter speeds and get sharp photos in all kinds of light, while a stabilized 40MP sensor lets you crop in for a tighter view. An eye-level viewfinder (EVF) enables seamless switching between optical and electronic views, and the rear touch screen tilts to allow for shooting from more interesting angles. Thoughtful control dials round out the package, making it simple to set the exposure.
Who It’s For
Shutterbugs: The X100 series is a long-running favorite among photo enthusiasts who seek a compact camera with picture quality that rivals that of a heavyweight mirrorless model. The X100VI adds sensor stabilization to the line, joining the iconic hybrid viewfinder, prime lens, and tactile controls.
Professional photographers: Pros who want a small camera for travel, personal use, or days when they simply want to pack light will appreciate the X100VI’s image quality, hands-on controls, and compact design.
Fashionistas: If you’re looking for a camera that doubles as a trendy fashion accessory, the X100VI is the perfect choice. Despite being equipped with modern technology, it resembles a vintage film camera, so you’ll turn heads as you take pictures.
Specs & Configurations
Dimensions
2.9 by 5.0 by 2.2 inches
Weight
1.2 lb
Type
Compact
Sensor Resolution
40 MP
Sensor Type
X-Trans BSI CMOS
Sensor Size
APS-C
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
SDXC (UHS-I)
Battery Type
Fujifilm NP-W126S
Minimum ISO
64
Maximum ISO
51200
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
35 mm
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
Stabilization
5-Axis IBIS
Display Size
3.0 inches
Display Resolution
1.62 million dots
Viewfinder Type
Hybrid
EVF Resolution
3.69 million dots
Connectivity
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C, Microphone (2.5mm)
Video Resolution
6.2K
HDMI Output
Yes
Learn More
Fujifilm X100VI Review
Pros & Cons
Simple, one-button operation
No rear LCD for distraction-free photography
Lets you make and load your own color profiles for artistic effects
USB-C charging and transfer
Pre-loaded with memory card that holds 2,000 photos
Waterproof case available
Snobby photogs will hate it
May miss candids due to shutter lag
LED flash doesn’t freeze motion like Xenon
Why We Picked It
The Camp Snap Digital Camera wins big points for simplicity, and you can’t disregard its asking price. The one-button digital camera frames shots using an old-school optical viewfinder and skips a rear display, so there’s no temptation to spend your time looking through snapshots when you could be taking more. It’s a heck of a lot of fun to use, especially since you can create and load your own filters.
Who It’s For
Kids: Camp Snap started out as a camera for kids to take to screen-free summer camps, but it is just as good a choice to use at school, home, or on vacation. It’s an easy camera to use, and since it’s so affordable, it’s not a huge deal if your child loses track of it.
Artsy photographers: You shouldn’t expect stellar photos from a $70 camera, but the Camp Snap makes the most out of its tech and leans into a grungy, disposable camera aesthetic. Shutterbugs and filter fans will love its customizable imaging engine, which allows you to create your own color profile and load it onto the Camp Snap’s memory card.
Specs & Configurations
Dimensions
2.5 by 4.5 by 1.0 inches
Type
Compact
Sensor Resolution
8 MP
Sensor Type
CMOS
Sensor Size
Type 1/3.2
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
microSD
Battery Type
Internal
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
35 mm
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
Stabilization
None
Viewfinder Type
Optical
Connectivity
USB-C
Learn More
Camp Snap Screen-Free Digital Camera Review
(Credit: Jim Fisher)
(Credit: Jim Fisher)
Pros & Cons
Large image sensor excels in dim light
Excellent battery life
Records long clips without overheating
Built-in wireless mic support
USB-C charging
Not rugged or weatherproof
Costs more than the Pocket 2
Why We Picked It
The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is among the best compact cameras for video and vlogging. It lives up to its name, boasting a compact form factor, and gimbal stabilization makes it ideal for handheld recording. A Type 1 sensor does a great job in all kinds of lighting, and we appreciate that the camera easily switches between widescreen and vertical aspect ratios.
Who It’s For
Content creators: The Pocket 3 is the pocketable camera to use for vlogging. Its gimbal-stabilized camera delivers silky smooth footage, featuring a large sensor and bright lens that soften backgrounds when desired. Additionally, it is compatible with wireless microphones from DJI.
Specs & Configurations
Dimensions
5.6 by 1.6 by 1.2 inches
Weight
6.4 oz
Type
Compact
Sensor Size
Type 1
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
microSDXC
Battery Type
Internal
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
20 mm
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
Stabilization
Gimbal
Display Size
2 inches
Connectivity
USB-C, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Video Resolution
4K
HDMI Output
None
Learn More
DJI Osmo Pocket 3 Review
(Credit: Jim Fisher)
(Credit: Jim Fisher)
Pros & Cons
Improved one-button operation
Selfie mirror and close-focus support
Works with black-and-white or color Instax Mini film
AA battery power
Affordable
Omits tripod socket
No double exposure or other artsy features
Why We Picked It
The Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 is the best low-cost instant camera available. It works with the Mini film format, snaps wallet-sized photos, provides the convenience of one-button operation, and even includes a mirror next to the lens, allowing you to get the angle right for your selfies. We love its price, and Mini film provides consistent, quality results. You can even get black-and-white film for the camera if you want to channel your inner Ansel Adams.
Who It’s For
Kids and families: The Mini 12’s gently curved lines, playful colorways, and simple one-button operation make it a good fit for kids who want to try out a real film camera. It’s a hit for family events, parties, and weddings too.
Beginners: If you want to try your hand at instant photography, but don’t know where to start, the Mini 12 is a good way to go. It doesn’t cost much, is easy to use, and is a lot of fun.
Specs & Configurations
Dimensions
4.8 by 4.2 by 2.7 inches
Weight
10.3 oz
Type
Analog
Battery Type
AA
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
Viewfinder Type
Optical
Learn More
Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 Review
(Credit: Jim Fisher)
(Credit: Jim Fisher)
Pros & Cons
Stylish and pocketable
Comfortable controls
30x zoom lens for wide angles and wildlife
Tasteful in-camera art filters
Snappy focus with 4.7fps continuous drive
Built-in xenon flash
Smartphones are better in low light and for bokeh
Not weather-sealed
Convoluted to pair with phone
Why We Picked It
The Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS99 outdoes smartphones in terms of zoom power. Its 30x zoom lens (24-720mm equivalent) covers a wide variety of scenes, ranging from landscapes to wildlife to macros, and is backed by snappy autofocus and a set of fun, yet tasteful, filtered looks. The lens covers nearly every situation, but is best used in sunlight. Even with that limitation, the ZS99 is one of the best pocket superzooms I’ve used, and will please fans of the camera style.
Who It’s For
Family photographers: Before smartphones took over, cameras like the ZS99 were the de facto standard for family snapshots. The ZS99 will feel familiar in the hand to family historians who prefer using a compact camera over a phone, and will undoubtedly appreciate its zoom power, built-in flash, and speedy, reliable autofocus.
Wildlife watchers: The ZS99’s 30x zoom lens covers a tight angle of view at its maximum focal length, so you can get good photos of birds and animals stopping by for a visit on your back patio, and can get photos of animals at the zoo or a national park that will put most smartphones to shame.
Specs & Configurations
Dimensions
2.7 by 4.4 by 1.7 inches
Weight
11 oz
Type
Compact
Sensor Resolution
20 MP
Sensor Type
BSI CMOS
Sensor Size
Type 1/2.3
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
SDXC (UHS-I)
Battery Type
Panasonic DMW-BLG10
Minimum ISO
80
Maximum ISO
3200
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
24 mm
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
720mm
Optical Zoom
30 x
Stabilization
Optical
Display Size
3.0 inches
Display Resolution
1.8 million dots
Connectivity
micro HDMI, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C
Video Resolution
4K
HDMI Output
Yes
Learn More
Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS99 Review
Pros & Cons
Sharp 8x zoom lens.
Electronic viewfinder.
1-inch sensor design.
20fps capture with subject tracking.
Eye detection for people and pets.
Tilting touch screen.
4K video with external microphone port.
Expensive.
Can’t start video while images are writing to card.
Limited touch functions.
Why We Picked It
The Sony RX100 VII is the ultimate travel camera. It slides into a pocket and pairs a 24-200mm zoom lens with a 20MP Type 1 image sensor. It also hides a pop-up electronic viewfinder in its frame. It’s one of the most expensive compacts available, but you get top-flight picture quality and a killer lens for the money.
Who It’s For
Shutterbugs: If you enjoy taking photos with a standalone camera, the RX100 VII is the pocket zoom to target. Its large sensor and bright zoom lens capture high-quality photos, and its eye-level viewfinder, tilting screen, and tactile controls are more suitable for photography than those of a smartphone.
Pros packing light: Working photographers who typically use a large interchangeable lens camera will appreciate having the RX100 VII in their pocket for quick trips out of the house, weekend getaways, and other occasions when they simply don’t want to carry a full kit for photos.
Specs & Configurations
Dimensions
2.3 by 4.0 by 1.7 inches
Weight
10.7 oz
Type
Compact
Sensor Resolution
20 MP
Sensor Type
BSI CMOS
Sensor Size
1″ (13.2 x 8.8mm)
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
SDXC (UHS-I), Memory Stick Duo
Battery Type
Sony NP-BX1
Minimum ISO
64
Maximum ISO
25600
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
24 mm
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
200 mm
Optical Zoom
8.3 x
Stabilization
Optical
Display Size
3 inches
Display Resolution
921600 dots
Viewfinder Type
EVF
Viewfinder Magnification
0.59x
EVF Resolution
2.36 million dots
Connectivity
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Microphone (3.5mm), micro USB, micro HDMI
Video Resolution
4K
HDMI Output
4:2:2 8-bit
Learn More
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII Review
(Credit: Jim Fisher)
(Credit: Jim Fisher)
Pros & Cons
Simple, single-button operation
Gets 2x more images per roll than most 35mm film cams
Low cost of entry
Tripod socket and bulb mode for long exposures
Built-in star filter and support for 30.5mm threaded filters
Convenient AAA battery power for flash
Lens suffers in backlit scenarios
Not capable of close-up or macro images
Why We Picked It
Film photography is experiencing another renaissance, with a new generation of creators embracing film chemistry as a welcome alternative to digital capture. The Kodak Ektar H35N is an all-plastic film camera that comes with an impressive $65 sticker price and includes a bulb mode for long exposures, a lens with a glass element, and a built-in star filter that can be turned on or off as desired. The H35N’s most notable feature is its half-frame capture—you get 72 shots on a roll of film, not 36, which is particularly beneficial when a roll of film costs as much as a takeout lunch.
Who It’s For
Beginners and students: Younger photographers who’ve never tried a film camera should think about the H35N as a starter model. It provides simple one-button operation, gets twice as many photos per roll of film as a normal 35mm film camera, and it’s in your pocket.
Shutterbugs: If you enjoy taking photos as a hobby and are looking to break out of the digital rut, the Ektar H35N is worth considering. Its simple operation lets you concentrate on staying in the moment rather than fiddling with settings, and it’s a heck of a lot of fun to use.
Specs & Configurations
Dimensions
2.4 by 4.3 by 1.5 inches
Weight
3.9 oz
Type
Analog
Battery Type
AAA
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
Viewfinder Type
Optical
Learn More
Kodak Ektar H35N Review
(Credit: Jim Fisher)
(Credit: Jim Fisher)
Pros & Cons
Gorgeous 28mm F1.7 lens
Full-frame sensor with multi-resolution support
In-camera crop adds versatility
Focuses close-up
Tilting, touch-sensitive LCD
Big, sharp EVF
IP52 rating
8K and 4K video recording
Pricey
No built-in storage
Middling built-in mic limits video potential
Battery life could be better
Why We Picked It
The Leica Q3 is about as luxe as it gets. The fixed-lens beauty features 28mm F1.7 optics and a 60MP full-frame sensor, along with a high-gloss black metal body with IP52 weather protection. Add a quality EVF, good macro capabilities, and 8K video, and you might find a reason to drop nearly six grand on a camera.
Who It’s For
Pros and shutterbugs: The Q3’s sky-high price puts the camera out of reach of casual snapshooters, but pros and serious photo hobbyists with money to spend will appreciate its gorgeous lens and full-frame sensor, tactile controls, and svelte sizing.
Travel photographers: A lightweight, versatile 28mm F1.7 lens and IP52 weather sealing make the Q3 an ideal camera for travel.
Specs & Configurations
Dimensions
3.2 by 5.1 by 3.6 inches
Weight
1.6 lb
Type
Compact
Sensor Resolution
60 MP
Sensor Type
BSI CMOS
Sensor Size
Full-Frame
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
SDXC (UHS-II)
Battery Type
Leica BP-SCL6
Minimum ISO
50
Maximum ISO
100000
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
28 mm
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
Stabilization
Optical
Display Size
3.0 inches
Display Resolution
1.84 million dots
Viewfinder Type
EVF
Viewfinder Magnification
0.76x
EVF Resolution
5.8 million dots
Connectivity
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C, micro HDMI
Video Resolution
8K
HDMI Output
4:2:2 10-bit
Learn More
Leica Q3 Review
(Photo: Jim Fisher)
(Photo: Jim Fisher)
Pros & Cons
Slick retro styling
Fun digital filter effects
Lets you print only what you want
Digital capture with chemical film prints
Bluetooth connection and smartphone app
Poor LCD quality
Inelegant controls
No in-camera editing tools
Can only send printed images to smartphone
5MP sensor isn’t anything special
Why We Picked It
The Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo is a clever mashup of digital and analog photography. The camera captures basic-quality digital shots with its 5MP sensor, and it also features numerous in-camera creative filters, allowing you to experiment and get creative. A built-in printer lets you make Instax Mini film photos from any photo you snap with the Evo, a feature that should be a hit with creatives and partygoers.
Who It’s For
Kids and families: The Mini Evo takes digital pictures and prints them out onto Instax Mini film, plus includes effects and color filters. It’s a great camera to introduce your child to the joy of photography, and for family photographers who want to capture snapshots that can be displayed on the fridge or bulletin board.
Specs & Configurations
Dimensions
3.4 by 4.8 by 1.4 inches
Weight
10 oz
Type
Compact
Sensor Resolution
5 MP
Sensor Type
CMOS
Sensor Size
1/5-inch
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
microSDHC, microSD
Battery Type
Internal
Minimum ISO
100
Maximum ISO
1600
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
28 mm
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
Stabilization
None
Display Size
3 inches
Display Resolution
460000 dots
Viewfinder Type
None
Connectivity
Bluetooth, micro USB
Video Resolution
None
HDMI Output
None
Learn More
Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Review
(Credit: Jim Fisher)
(Credit: Jim Fisher)
Pros & Cons
Rugged, waterproof pocket camera
Bright F2.0 aperture at widest angle
Large magnification for close-up focus
Add-on lenses and flash modifiers available
Expensive
Rear screen doesn’t support touch
Picture quality lags behind smartphones
Underwhelming video features
Why We Picked It
There are only a few waterproof point-and-shoot cameras on sale these days, but the Olympus Tough TG series has been a regular favorite, even when the field was crowded. The TG-7 continues the tradition with a useful 24-100mm f/2.0-4.9 zoom lens that performs well for underwater, low-light, and macro photography. The camera is practically indestructible and can go as deep as 50 feet underwater.
Who It’s For
Outdoor enthusiasts: The TG-7 is practically indestructible, waterproof, and freezeproof. If you spend time in nature taking landscape, macro, and underwater photos, it’s a good camera to have in your pocket.
Vacationers: If your vacation plans include a dip in the ocean, the TG-7 is a good camera to take. You won’t have to worry about getting it wet, and you can even use it to try and get pictures of coral and fish if you plan on snorkeling.
Specs & Configurations
Dimensions
2.6 by 4.5 by 1.3 inches
Weight
8.8 oz
Type
Compact
Sensor Resolution
12 MP
Sensor Type
BSI CMOS
Sensor Size
Type 1/2.3
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
SDXC (UHS-I)
Battery Type
Olympus LI-92B
Minimum ISO
100
Maximum ISO
12800
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
25 mm
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
100 mm
Optical Zoom
4 x
Stabilization
Optical
Display Size
3.0 inches
Display Resolution
1.04 million dots
Viewfinder Type
None
Connectivity
Bluetooth, GPS, USB-C, Wi-Fi, micro HDMI
Maximum Waterproof Depth
50 feet
Video Resolution
4K
HDMI Output
Yes
Learn More
OM System TG-7 Review
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The Best Point-and-Shoot Cameras for 2025
Compare Specs
Buying Guide: The Best Point-and-Shoot Cameras for 2025
What Kind of Compact Cameras Are Available Today?
Compact cameras come in all shapes and sizes, ranging from pocketable models with zoom lenses to premium fixed-lens entries from Fujifilm and Leica. We cover the high-end options further down, but if you’re after a superzoom model, check out our picks for the best bridge cameras. Bridge cameras are larger and won’t fit in your pocket, but they offer far more zoom power than smartphones.
How PCMag Tests Digital Cameras
The once-thriving pocket camera market is pretty much quiet today. At one point, I went as far as to call it dead, but to quote Mark Twain, my report was an exaggeration. After all, up-and-coming brand Camp Snap decided to jump in with its eponymous $70 digital snapshooter. Although there may be fewer compact models produced today than in years past, a healthy variety of forms and functions remains.
The Lumix ZS99 includes a 30x zoom lens (Credit: Jim Fisher)
You can still get a pocket-friendly big zoom camera; Panasonic’s Lumix DC-ZS99 is the best I’ve used in recent memory and is included in my picks, but it’s not the only option available. Fujifilm makes a few off-kilter cameras, including the film-inspired X Half and Instax Evo Mini, which prints digital pictures onto instant film.
Canon offers a diverse line, including quirky options like the PowerShot Zoom monocular and V10 vlogging camera, as well as the large-sensor V1. Sony also caters to the vlogging crowd with its ZV series, and has one pricey RX100 left in production, the $1,600 RX100 VII. Nikon is essentially out of the small camera market at this point.
OM System Tough TG-7 can survive submersion (Credit: Jim Fisher)
OM System and Ricoh are still around, though; both manufacturers make waterproof compacts that are suitable for use underwater or on construction sites. Ricoh also produces a line of Theta 360-degree cameras, popular for use in real estate, as well as the Pentax 17 film camera and the APS-C sensor GR series, which I’ll discuss in the next section.
For picture quality comparable with that of flagship smartphones, look for a model with a Type 1 (also known as 1-inch class) image sensor at a minimum. These cameras typically have shorter zoom lenses; the Sony ZV-1 has a 24-70mm lens, while the ZV-1 Mark II uses an 18-50mm lens, with brighter apertures that can soften backgrounds, but start at a price north of $500. Even Sony’s budget ZV1F costs $550, and as mentioned, its long zoom (24-200mm) RX100 VII is now at $1,600.
I’ve not yet tested it, but Canon’s PowerShot V1, priced at $980, undercuts some Sony models. It utilizes a zoom lens and features an even larger Type 1.4 sensor, which is nearly as large as the sensor in a Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera.
There are also small cameras with APS-C and full-frame image sensors. Ricoh’s GR III series is a long-running favorite, but it is now between models. The GR III is discontinued and replaced by the GR IV. The GR IIIx, a variation with a standard-angle lens, is still in production.
Recommended by Our Editors
Fuji X100VI (Credit: Jim Fisher)
Our top-rated compact is the Fuji X100VI, the latest entry in the popular X100 line. Unfortunately for potential buyers, the X100VI has proven to be so popular that it has a long waiting list. If you want one now, you’ll end up spending far more than its $1,800 retail price. If you can’t wait, check out our list of digital compacts worth buying used to find a quality alternative.
If you’re a luxury shopper, consider opting for a full-frame or larger format. The Leica Q3, Q3 43, Q2 Monochrom, and the Sony RX1R III represent the current crop of fixed-lens cameras with full-format image sensors. The Fujifilm GFX100RF takes it a step further by incorporating a medium-format chip into a slim, carry-friendly body. All of these cameras are expensive, ranging from $5,100 for the RX1R III to $7,380 for the Q3 43, but enthusiasts who can afford them are sure to enjoy the experience and capture stunning photos along the way.
Beyond the Confines of Your Pocket
If you’re looking for something more capable than a pocket camera, consider our overall favorites from across all camera categories or opt for a mirrorless camera with swappable lenses to document your life.
