With the best smartphones producing high-quality images and videos, you may wonder why buying a point-and-shoot camera is at all necessary.

Well, they remain more versatile than even the best smartphone cameras. You can achieve much more with the various lenses, focal lengths, and settings on point-and-shoot cameras than simple selfies and basic shots. Capturing distant images of wildlife or action shots at the stadium is easily more achievable with a compact point-and-shoot.

Not only that, but an actual camera feels much more comfortable and looks way cooler than your average smartphone.

Here are the best point-and-shoot digital cameras available today.

Our Top Point-and-Shoot Camera Picks in 2023

A Canon Powershot G7 X Mark III point-and-shoot camera
Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III
Best Overall

A Balance of Quality and Value

The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III compact camera combines advanced technology and exceptional image quality. With features like a high-resolution sensor, versatile lens, and effective image stabilization, it is a reliable choice if you want a multipurpose, capable camera.

Pros
  • Compact, lightweight, and portable
  • Excellent build quality
  • Screen can flip forward
  • High continuous shutter speed
Cons
  • Average autofocus

The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III combines a compact size with an impressive array of advanced features. Its 20.1MP 1-inch stacked CMOS sensor delivers detailed and sharp images, while the DIGIC 8 image processor ensures rapid and precise performance. Additionally, it features a versatile 24-100mm equivalent F1.8-2.8 lens suitable for various photography genres.

The G7 X Mark III has an ISO sensitivity range of 125-12,800, which is expandable to 25,600, and noise doesn’t noticeably show up until you hit ISO 3,200. Combined with its fast aperture and effective image stabilization, it’s an excellent low-light performer. The lens-based image stabilization provides up to four stops of shake compensation. Together with its 5-axis Advanced Dynamic IS, the G7 X Mark III boasts an effective system for reducing shake.

The Auto Level feature is another valuable addition. It adjusts the camera's orientation to maintain level horizons. This feature is particularly handy for shooting on uneven surfaces or when panning landscapes.

While eye detection is not supported, the camera features a responsive contrast-detection AF system. It offers both single and continuous autofocus modes, although continuous AF for burst shooting and subject tracking is not available.

An Olympus Tough TG-6 rugged and waterproof camera
Olympus Tough TG-6
Most Rugged

A Tough Travel Camera for Off-Grid Adventures

The Olympus Tough TG-6 is a highly-durable point-and-shoot camera designed for adventurers seeking ruggedness and reliability. With its ability to withstand extreme conditions and accidents, it is the perfect companion for off-the-beaten-track exploration, ensuring you capture unforgettable moments with ease and peace of mind.

Pros
  • Highly durable
  • Good dim-light captures
  • Excellent macro modes
  • Waterproof up to 15 meters
Cons
  • 12MP resolution could be better

Tough by name, tough by nature; the Olympus Tough TG-6 is the Rocky Balboa of point-and-shoot cameras. It is a highly durable device that can withstand various extremes. With its IP68 rating, it's waterproof up to 15 meters (as well as dustproof). Moreover, it's shockproof and even crushproof up to 100kgf. In short, if you want a camera that can brave any season, weather condition, or unexpected accident, this is the perfect choice.

However, its durability doesn't limit its capability for sophisticated photography. While the 12MP image resolution could be better, it can produce quality images suitable for most everyday photography needs.

Furthermore, this device is an excellent shout for macro photography. It has an 8x zoom, a wide-angle f/2 lens, and four excellent macro modes that enable you to shoot as close as 1cm from the front of your lens.

The cherry on top is the outstanding Microscope Control Mode that can achieve up to 44x digital magnification. Those insect and ocean life close-ups will be sharp, detailed, and, undoubtedly, fascinating. On top of that, three white balance modes will help you achieve fantastic color and more detail.

Low-light performance is also excellent thanks to its fast f/2 lens, sensor-shift image stabilization, and ISO sensitivity ranging from 100 to 12,800. Additionally, you can shoot quality 4K movies at 30FPS. You also get Full HD at 120FPS, providing the prospect of epic slow-motion videos to light up your social media pages.

A Sony ZV-1 II with flip-out screen
Sony ZV-1 II
Best for Vloggers

Specific Features for Versatile Vlogging

The Sony ZV-1 II is an upgraded point-and-shoot camera designed for vloggers. It offers notable improvements that enhance its suitability for creating high-quality video content. With features like a wider field of view, improved close-up shooting, a more intuitive user interface, and convenient modes for adding mood and atmosphere, it provides vloggers with an enhanced filming experience and greater creative control.

Pros
  • Fast Hybrid AF
  • 20.1MP Exmor RS CMOS sensor
  • 4K at 30FPS video
  • 18-50mm wide-angle zoom lens ideal for vlogging
  • Lightweight and portable
Cons
  • Poor battery life
  • No optical image stabilization

The ZV-1 was already an excellent point-and-shoot camera popular among vloggers. The Mark II introduces several significant improvements that vloggers will appreciate even more, with the new 18-50mm lens being the main one. This lens offers a wider field of view, while close-ups are also improved, thanks to a shorter minimum focal distance. However, to accommodate these necessary changes, Sony had to reduce the zoom range.

Yet, they have updated the user interface, making it more intuitive. You can easily access the camera’s range of filters and modes aimed specifically at the modern vlogger. Creating various styles to add mood and atmosphere to your videos is a cinch, with settings such as Cinematic Vlog adding a touch of Hollywood class.

If you promote products, you can also enjoy Product Showcase Mode, where the camera automatically focuses on objects you bring into the shot. Furthermore, the Bokeh Switch immediately isolates your subject by blurring the background at the press of a button. Fans of the Mark I will be pleased to know that the excellent 3-capsule mic with front, rear, and omnidirectional recording still features in the Mark II. Additionally, the fully-articulating touchscreen from the previous iteration also remains.

A Fujifilm Instax Mini Liplay instant camera
Fujifilm Instax Mini Liplay
Best Budget

Capture Instant Memories with Vintage Flair

The Fujifilm Instax Mini Liplay is a compact, easy-to-use point-and-shoot camera that brings back the nostalgia of instant photography. The ability to instantly print photos and even add audio offers a fun and memorable way to capture moments without requiring any photography skills.

Pros
  • Instant photo printing
  • Compact, lightweight, and slimline
  • Affordable
  • Unlike other instant cameras, printing is not automatic after shooting
Cons
  • No in-camera editing
  • Display is not very bright
  • Not a great dim-light performer

Slim, lightweight, and a lot of fun, the Fujifilm Instax Mini Liplay is a point-and-shoot camera with a bit of a retro difference. It shares the same functionality as the long-forgotten Polaroid cameras but has one distinctive advantage. Rather than instantly printing out pictures, you can review and select which photos to print at your convenience.

Not only that, but you can also add audio to your images or get creative with various frames and filters for the perfect shot. Print out your creations instantly from the camera or even directly from a smartphone or tablet. The image quality won’t blow you away, but it’s good enough for an affordable camera. No photography skills are necessary; everything is done for you as there are no manual controls. It’s a fun point-and-shoot that gives instant printed memories.

With three beautiful designs to choose from, there’s a style for everyone. You have the classy choice of blush gold or elegant black or white for a more classic look. It’s small, compact, and easily fits into a shirt pocket or purse, and the battery life is good for up to 100 prints.

A Fujifilm X100 V premium point-and-shoot
Fujifilm X100 V
Best Premium

Premium Point-and-Shoot Performance

The Fujifilm X100V is a premium point-and-shoot camera that combines a sleek design with advanced technology, offering photographers a high-end shooting experience. With its exceptional image quality, compact size, and durable build, this camera is a top choice for discerning photographers willing to invest in a high-quality tool for capturing stunning moments.

Pros
  • Slimline with a pancake lens
  • Excellent for travelers
  • Tilting LCD touchscreen
  • Old-school ISO dial
  • Fast focus
Cons
  • No weather-sealing

The Fujifilm X100V is an excellent point-and-shoot camera with a fixed 23mm (35mm equivalent) f/2 pancake lens. It’s a fantastic choice for beginners as this camera really makes the art of snapping quality pictures an enjoyable experience by cutting out a lot of the faff.

The core of this camera’s excellence is the cutting-edge X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor. It works with the X-Processor 4 to deliver images and videos of superior quality. You can capture wide compositions of street life, landscapes, cityscapes, and just about anything else. However, due to the fixed lens, you’ll need to be close to your subject for portraits, and capturing distant subjects is a task for another camera.

The 26MP photo resolution produces beautiful results that you can enlarge to poster size without affecting the quality. However, it's probably not the best choice for vloggers. Heating issues limit the length of video you can record. With only ten minutes available at 4K per clip, it may not appeal to vloggers who want to capture long lifestyle videos, and there's no image stabilization. However, the short 4K videos it captures are highly detailed and of excellent quality.

It’s the perfect camera for travelers because it’s lightweight and easy to pack. It also fits easily into a pocket and has dust and splash protection. However, it isn’t weatherproof. For this, you will need to buy a separate adapter ring.

A full image of a black Canon Powershot XS740
Canon PowerShot SX740 Digital Camera
Best for Everyday Use

Everyday Point-and-Shoot Excellence

The Canon Powershot SX740 is a versatile, user-friendly point-and-shoot camera, perfect for capturing everyday moments. Its compact size, lightweight design, and high-quality images and videos make it an ideal choice for on-the-go photography enthusiasts.

Pros
  • Slim and lightweight
  • Good battery life
  • Simple to use
  • 40x optical zoom
  • Excellent 5-axis image stabilizer
Cons
  • No EVF

The Canon Powershot SX740 is a versatile point-and-shoot camera well-suited for everyday photography. It features a 20.3MP CMOS sensor, a 40x optical zoom lens, and a 5-axis image stabilizer, which allows you to take sharp photos and videos in low-light conditions.

While it’s not the most advanced camera on the market, it is a good value for the price. It produces high-quality images and videos and is easy to use. Additionally, it fits snugly in a pocket and is lightweight, allowing you to carry it throughout the day or hang it around your neck without feeling weighed down.

You can shoot high-quality movies and time-lapses in 4K at 30FPS or 25FPS and watch them back on the handy 180-degree flip-up LCD screen. The screen is a nice touch, making it easier to take selfies and group photos. But it isn’t a touchscreen, and the lack of an electronic viewfinder may also dissuade some buyers.

A full shot of a Sony RX100 VII
Sony RX100 VII
Best for Action

A Compact Camera for Freezing the Action

$1235 $1096 Save $-139

The Sony RX100 VII is an advanced point-and-shoot camera ideal for capturing action shots, such as sports or wildlife, in vivid detail and sharpness. With remarkable autofocus and burst shooting capabilities, this compact camera produces impressive results that rival many premium cameras.

Pros
  • High-speed burst shooting
  • Excellent autofocus
  • Good zoom range
  • Excellent 4K video captures
Cons
  • No hand grips

If you are looking for a simple and efficient point-and-shoot that gives sharp images even in low light, then the Sony RX100 VII could be the camera for you. It has a 20MP 1-inch Stacked CMOS sensor, an impressive full-frame equivalent focal length of 24-200mm, and an aperture range of f/2.8 (wide) or f/4.5 (telephoto) to f/11 with a seven-blade aperture.

It performs best in the field of action shots, making it an ideal choice for sports or wildlife photography. This performance is primarily due to its remarkable single-burst shooting mode of up to 90FPS and a highly efficient autofocus system with 357 phase-detection and 425 contrast-detection AF points.

Thanks to its comprehensive range of shutter speeds, the camera captures swift movements or dim subjects with sharpness and vivid detail. Landscapes also come out well, with good dynamic range. Furthermore, its ISO range of 100-12,800 (expandable to 64 to 25,600) and excellent image stabilization contribute to its good performance in challenging lighting.

The camera is small and easily portable. Although not as light as other compact cameras, it can still slip into a pocket without fuss. However, if you need something rugged and weatherproof, you should know that the Sony RX100 VII may not be as durable as other point-and-shoots and needs a little more care.

A full sface shot of a Sony Cybershot RX10 IV
Sony Cybershot RX10 IV
Best Zoom Lens

A Superzoom Point-and-Shoot Bridge Camera

The Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV is a highly recommended camera for capturing a wide range of subjects. Thanks to its excellent 25x optical zoom lens, you can capture distant subjects and close-up action shots easily and quickly, ensuring you never miss a moment.

Pros
  • Excellent battery life
  • High-quality images
  • 3-inch tilting screen
  • Good optical image stabilization
  • Fast autofocus
Cons
  • On the bulky side

The Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV is another excellent choice for capturing fast-moving images, thanks to its lightning-fast autofocus. It has 315 phase-detection and 25 contrast-detection AF points covering 65 percent of the frame aided by 24FPS burst shooting. Whether you want to snap faraway lions on safari or close-up shots of your child on the sports field, this camera gives you unforgettable frozen-in-time images.

It performs pretty well in low-light settings, too. Images are sharp with its wide f/2.4 aperture, efficient image stabilization, and a 100 to 12,800 ISO range (expandable to 64 to 25,600). You also get relatively minimal noise at higher ISOs, and the dynamic range is excellent.

The 25x optical zoom is a notable range, equivalent to 24-600mm, making it an excellent choice for capturing distant subjects. However, this does add to the camera’s bulk and may be a deciding factor if you want a slim and pocketable point-and-shoot. On the upside, it is moisture and dust-resistant, a rarity among compact cameras. If you can overlook its slightly larger size, you will have a durable camera that captures exceptional images.

A full face shot of a Ricoh GR IIIx
Ricoh GR IIIx
Most Compact

An Excellent Option for Travel Photography

The Ricoh GR IIIx is a compact and lightweight camera that combines portability with impressive image quality, making it ideal for shutterbugs seeking a high-quality point-and-shoot for travel.

Pros
  • Touchscreen with a vivid display
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Intuitive menu system
  • Excellent image quality
Cons
  • Not brilliant for taking videos
  • Relatively short battery life
  • No built-in flash

When considering a point-and-shoot camera, most people seek ease of use and compact dimensions. The Ricoh GR IIIx delivers on both counts. Despite packing a 24MP APS-C sensor, the GR IIIx weighs just 9.2 pounds and boasts slim dimensions of 4.3 x 2.4 x 1.4 inches. It’s comfortable to hold and easy to handle, while the controls are intuitive and allow easy access to various settings. Additionally, the GR IIIx has a touchscreen LCD monitor to help simplify menu navigation.

The large sensor delivers impressive image quality with edge-to-edge detail. With its wide ISO of 100 to 102,400 sensitivity range and 3-axis image stabilization, photo quality is consistent in all lighting conditions. Noise is limited up to ISO 12,800, allowing you to snap away with fast shutter speeds and narrow apertures while indoors or after dusk.

Its 40mm equivalent lens caters well to the street photographer, and the hybrid phase- and contrast-detection autofocus system boasts an extensive coverage area. It also incorporates decent human face and eye detection to capture people precisely.

The camera also offers subject tracking and continuous autofocus features. However, as a compact point-and-shoot, these capabilities may be slightly less accurate when capturing rapid subjects compared to premium cameras. Continuous shooting is capped at 5FPS, and it can sustain this pace for approximately 10 RAW shots or 15 JPEGs before needing to buffer.

Points to Consider Before Buying a Point-and-Shoot Camera in 2023

When buying a point-and-shoot camera, you are likely looking for simplicity, convenience, portability, or all three. Nowadays, these cameras feature high-res sensors and advanced image processing, resulting in excellent image quality. As a result, splashing out on expensive DSLRs and premium mirrorless cameras might be unnecessary for most people. Even professionals or serious hobbyists might seek a portable option for taking on vacation.

While they may not offer the level of manual control or interchangeable lenses that more advanced cameras do (you'll have to look to some of the best DSLR cameras for that), point-and-shoots are versatile, and some feature specific features and shooting modes that cater to various photography needs.

The Sony ZV-1 II for instance offers a wide-angle lens and excellent close-up shooting capabilities, making it perfect for vloggers. It also includes various creative modes and an intuitive interface. On the other hand, long-term travelers and nomads might require a tough and rugged camera like the Olympus Tough TG-6, designed to survive the extremes that their adventures will take them to.

However, the best point-and-shoot camera that combines good value with everything else is the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III. It's a versatile choice that most people can enjoy and features a convenient telephoto lens that doesn’t compromise image quality.

A Canon Powershot G7 X Mark III point-and-shoot camera
Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III
Best Overall

A Balance of Quality and Value

The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III compact camera combines advanced technology and exceptional image quality. With features like a high-resolution sensor, versatile lens, and effective image stabilization, it is a reliable choice if you want a multipurpose, capable camera.

Pros
  • Compact, lightweight, and portable
  • Excellent build quality
  • Screen can flip forward
  • High continuous shutter speed
Cons
  • Average autofocus