Compact Cameras

Compact cameras are self-contained image-making machines. With a lens attached rather than an interchangeable lens mount, compact digital cameras give you everything you need to start shooting from the moment you take them out of the box. It’s a wide category, encompassing everything from affordable point-and-shoots to premium compacts beloved by professionals.

Smaller and more straightforward than DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, compact cameras are great for street photography, travel and a whole lot more. There are lots of different types from various manufacturers – on this page we’ll take you through them to help you find the right compact for you.

Compact Cameras

Which compact camera should you choose?

Choosing the right compact camera depends on what you want to shoot and how you plan to use it. Some photographers prioritise a long zoom lens for capturing distant subjects, while others prefer a lightweight, pocket-sized camera for travel and everyday convenience. A larger sensor can be more important for those focused on image quality, especially in low light or when you want sharper, more detailed photos. Consider your shooting style and priorities to find the compact camera that best matches your needs.

Prime lens vs zoom lens: which to choose?

When choosing a camera, one of the first decisions is whether to go for a prime lens or a zoom lens. A prime lens has a fixed focal length, meaning there’s no optical zoom; for example, a 28mm prime will always shoot at 28mm. The advantage of this is superior image quality—with fewer moving parts and no zoom mechanism to compromise the optics, prime lenses often deliver sharper, higher-contrast images and better low-light performance. Zoom lenses, in contrast, offer versatility, covering a range of focal lengths so you can adjust framing without moving physically closer or further from your subject. This makes them ideal for travel, events, or everyday photography when convenience and flexibility are important.

Which one you choose depends on your priorities. A zoom lens is perfect if you want all-in-one convenience and adaptability, while a prime lens suits photographers who care most about sharpness and optical quality. It’s also important to consider the focal length: wide-angle lenses (8–35mm) are best for landscapes and architecture, standard lenses (40–70mm) work well for street photography and everyday shots, and longer lenses (80mm and above) are ideal for portraits, wildlife, and action photography. By understanding the differences between prime and zoom lenses, you can select the lens that best matches your shooting style and photographic goals.

Compact Camera Brands

Let’s run through the main manufacturers of compact cameras and take a quick look at the products they offer.

Canon’s compact camera lineup has something for everyone. Great for beginners or anyone after an affordable, easy-to-use point-and-shoot.

For stronger low-light performance and more advanced features, Canon’s newer compacts like the Canon Powershot V1 bring a large 1.4-inch sensor, advanced autofocus, and pro-style video tools. If you want even more flexibility, models like the Canon R50 V (APS-C mirrorless) offer interchangeable lenses and enhanced video options.

Compatible with all X100V accessories, the Fujifilm X100VI features a gigantic 40MP X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor, X-Processor 5 and a new low base ISO of 125. This model takes what the world of photography loved about its predecessor and elevates it to the next level. In addition, this iteration is equipped with 6-stop IBIS, AI subject detection and the latest AF algorithm and offers 6.2K30P and 4K60P video recording.

The premium Leica brand remains synonymous with uncompromising quality—and its compact cameras are no exception. The Lecia Q3 and its newer Lecia Q3 43 variant both offer full-frame sensors, delivering exceptional image quality, superb low-light performance, and that signature Leica handling.

Panasonic Lumix makes two main types of compact cameras. Its bridge-style cameras, including the LUMIX FZ82D, is built like DSLRs and have big zoom lenses for all-purpose shooting. The smaller Lumix TZ cameras, such as the Lumix TZ99 Silver and Lumix TZ99 Black, are travel zoom cameras, pocket sized and perfect for taking everywhere.

Sony also offers both bridge cameras and smaller compacts. One of the stars of its stable is the Sony RX100 VIIA, a fabulous pocket-sized compact that features a high-resolution 1-inch sensor and a pop-up electronic viewfinder. This series has been so enduringly popular that its six previous iterations are still widely available at knock-down prices.

Ricoh’s GR cameras are also fantastic for street photographers. Sleek and discreet, the Ricoh GR IIIx Equipped with a 26.1mm f2.8 lens (equiv. 40mm in 35mm format) – and if you want a longer focal length, there’s also the Ricoh GR IIIx HDF, which provides the same setup with a 40mm іn 35mm fоrmаt.

Frequently Asked Questions