best travel camera dpreview

Search Please fill out this field.
Manage Your Subscription
Give a Gift Subscription
Newsletters
Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Travel Products
Tech Essentials

The 13 Best Compact Cameras of 2024

These are the top point-and-shoot options for epic travel photography.

In This Article

Our Top Picks
Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Trust T + L

Travel + Leisure / David Hattan

What’s the best way to relive your favorite travel experiences over and over again? By taking epic photos that you can upload to social media or transform into a coffee table photo book, of course. Investing in a proper camera with a high-quality sensor and a decent number of megapixels will yield better, more printable results than your phone camera. But that doesn’t mean you need to lug a full-size DSLR and several interchangeable lenses around with you. You can get amazing results with a compact, or point-and-shoot, camera.

B&H Senior Technologist Mark Steinberg defines a compact camera as one that is “pocketable, with a minimum number of protrusions, that can be used one-handed.” They’re a great option for anyone who prioritizes easy portability or casual photographers who want good results without a steep learning curve. There are several different kinds of compact cameras, from the budget-friendly to the professional quality, and from digital to film and instant. We’ve researched them all to find the best options across several different categories.

Best Overall

Sony cyber-shot dsc-rx100 vii digital camera.

B&H Photo

It has a high-quality sensor, near-instant autofocus, and a lens that fulfills both wide-angle and telephoto functions.

It’s an expensive option for occasional use only.

Chosen by Mark Steinberg as the best overall compact camera, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII is the seventh generation of a series that has been raising the bar for compacts since its inception. It’s simple to use for novice photographers, with enough manual settings to allow for experimentation and growth. The 1-inch Exmor RS BSI CMOS sensor is a major highlight, allowing for high sensitivity with a maximum resolution of 20.1 megapixels. With 8x optical zoom and 24–200mm equivalence, the ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* lens gives you the freedom to switch between wide angle and telephoto photography for everything from landscapes to wildlife.

Whatever your subject, the 0.02-second hybrid autofocus ensures sharp images in both still and video mode. You can shoot single, continuous, burst, and self-timer images and set an upper or lower limit for your ISO up to a maximum of 12800 for impressive low-light results. If film is your passion, you’ll love the camera’s 20 frames-per-second, 4K video for its smooth movement and cinema-quality resolution. When it comes to viewing your footage, framing (and taking) your shot, or scrolling through the menu, use the 180-degree-flip LCD touchscreen. In high-glare conditions, you can also revert to the pop-up electronic viewfinder.

The RX100 VII offers Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity for instant uploads to social media.

Best Image Quality

Ricoh gr iiix digital camera.

This camera uses advanced lens and sensor technology to deliver undistorted, true-color images with a high level of sharpness across the entire frame.

If video is a priority, bear in mind that the GR IIIx shoots Full HD rather than 4K.

Suitable for all experience levels, the Ricoh GR IIIx Digital Camera was designed with the express purpose of providing superior image quality. The 26.1mm GR lens offers a 40mm angle of view in the 35mm format that’s meant to mirror your natural field of view. It also uses premium technology to eliminate distortion, render colors accurately, and create amazingly sharp images. This is complemented by the camera’s high-resolution CMOS image sensor, which captures HD detail suitable for large-scale prints with up to 24.2 megapixels.

Other highlights include the camera’s impressive shake reduction technology and its fast, precise hybrid autofocus with eight focus modes to choose from including one that automatically detects the eyes and faces for perfect portraits. We love that you can shoot in macro, while an interval composite shooting mode allows you to capture star trail images (you’ll need to buy a tripod separately.) These are the unique images that set your travel shots apart. The camera offers Full HD video, a LCD touch screen with instantly adjustable brightness, and 2GB of built-in memory — a lifesaver when your memory card malfunctions at the crucial moment.

Best Full-frame Compact

Sony cyber-shot rx1r ii digital camera.

This camera packs the full-frame sensor of a professional DSLR into an unbelievably compact, travel-sized body.

You could buy a good DSLR body and lens for a similar price.

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II is meant for professional photographers with a price tag and learning curve to match. The 35mm full-frame back-illuminated CMOS sensor is the largest available, offering more light, more information, better quality, and a greater dynamic range than the APS-C frame found in standard compact cameras. With 42.5 megapixels and the ability to shoot in uncompressed 14-bit RAW, this camera will produce pro-quality, large-scale prints with an astonishing amount of detail.

The ZEISS Sonnar T* 35mm f/2 lens is fixed with no optical zoom, making it best for wide-angle and close-up subjects (and especially, street photography). The large aperture allows you to work in low light and use an unusually shallow depth of field. And, if you’re familiar with terms like moiré and aliasing, you’ll appreciate the inclusion of the world’s first optical variable low-pass filter for reducing these kinds of distortion. Other perks include super-fast hybrid autofocus, Full HD video with the ability to capture slow-motion HD video, an electronic viewfinder, and an adjustable 3-inch LCD screen.

Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS200D Digital Camera

You can bring subjects 15 times closer without sacrificing image quality, thanks to its optical zoom.

It’s slightly heavier and bulkier than some of the other compact cameras on this list.

If you want to be able to photograph animals, birds, or any other subject from a distance without forking out thousands of dollars for a DSLR with a telephoto lens, the Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS200D is an excellent option. The Leica DC Vario-Elmar 24–360mm lens offers a 15x optical zoom — which brings subjects 15 times closer without any of the pixelation associated with digital zoom. Optical Image Stabilizer technology means your photos won’t suffer from blurry camera shake either.

The 1-inch MOS sensor with 20.1 megapixels results in bright, colorful images that lend themselves well to print. You can expand your photographic skills by playing around with traditional aperture and shutter priority modes, or use preset scene and filter modes for instantly different effects. We especially love the camera’s Post Focus feature, which varies the focal point while taking 30 photos per second so that you can go back afterwards and select the best one. In terms of video, shoot in 4K or use high-speed Full HD for instant 120 frames-per-second, slow-motion playback.

Best Splurge

Leica q3 digital camera.

This is a professional camera that pays equal attention to still images and video, delivering best-in-class results for both.

It’s not the best choice for those who want telephoto functionality.

The Leica Q3 is an ultra-exclusive option limited to one purchase per customer. And don’t be fooled by its compact size — coming in at just under $6,000, it’s a premium product for serious professionals. It boasts a full-frame BSI CMOS sensor for unparalleled photo and video quality. With a maximum aperture size of f/1.7 and a maximum ISO of 100000, it performs unbelievably well in low light conditions. The Summilux 28mm fixed lens includes an integrated macro mode, making the camera ideal for close-up work as well as wide-angle street photography.

There’s no optical zoom. However, Triple Resolution Technology with up to 60 megapixels means you can use the digital zoom without losing significant detail. You can also shoot in 36 or 18 megapixel mode to save space on your memory card. Video is equally versatile with multiple formats to choose from including 8K, 4K, ProRes, and Full HD. All of your work benefits from hybrid autofocus and subject tracking, while the Leica FOTOS app can be used for audiovisual content creation. Finally, you can frame shots using the 3-inch display or the OLED viewfinder.

Best for Videos and Vlogging

Canon powershot g7 x mark iii camera.

Designed to shoot high-quality video in vertical or horizontal formats, this camera offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity and can live-stream direct to YouTube.

To realize full vlogging potential, you may need to purchase a tripod and remote control separately.

Looking for the best camera for filming quality reels? The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III is designed especially for this purpose with 4K and Full HD video, the ability to shoot horizontally or vertically, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity to social media, and the ability to live stream straight to YouTube. Whether you’re shooting video or still photos, the fact that you can tilt the LCD touch screen by 180 degrees makes it ideal for framing quality selfies.

The technology is impressive, too. We’re talking a 1-inch stacked CMOS sensor paired with a DIGIC 8 image processor for exceptionally fast autofocusing, with facial recognition that puts you in the center no matter how much you move around. The 24–100mm lens is suitable for a versatile mix of wide-angle and short telephoto shots, while the f/1.8-2.8 aperture performs well in low light conditions. Finally, the Optical Image Stabilizer reduces camera shake for clear, crisp results. Adding other gadgets is easy. The camera has a 3.5mm microphone terminal and can be purchased as part of a video creator kit that includes a tripod grip and remote control.

Fujifilm X100VI Camera

This camera combines state-of-the-art technology with a vintage aesthetic and a full range of film simulation modes.

The lens is fixed, so any zoom comes with the compromise of digital cropping.

First off, the Fujifilm X100VI just looks cool, with a gorgeous silver-and-black or all-black aesthetic reminiscent of a vintage film camera. Beneath the retro exterior lies a cutting-edge X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor with a revolutionary image-processing algorithm for efficient light reception and amazing image resolution at any ISO sensitivity. Thanks to the fixed 23mm f/2 lens, you’ll also get 35mm equivalency in terms of low-light performance and the ability to achieve a shallow depth of field — for a much lower cost than a full-frame compact camera.

You can zoom digitally by 1.4x or 2x. The 425-point intelligent autofocus system is super fast, while built-in image stabilization reduces the appearance of camera shake by up to six f-stops. And when it comes to video, you can switch between 6.2K, 4K, and Full HD at will. Above all, we love that this camera includes 20 simulation modes inspired by iconic Fujifilm film types ranging from Eterna Bleach Bypass to Nostalgic Neg. You can even shoot using a Grain Effect that replicates the textured look of vintage film photography.

Kodak Ektar H35 Half Frame Film Camera

It’s an inexpensive and easy-to-use film camera for maximum fun.

There’s a limit to how much you can do with such a basic setup, so it may not be ideal as your primary travel camera.

Perhaps you feel nostalgic for the days of film, or perhaps you grew up in the digital era and want to experience photography as it used to be. Either way, the Kodak Ektar H35 Half Frame Film Camera is great for film novices, those wanting to stretch their abilities as a photographer, and those who just love the retro look of original film. It’s inexpensive in terms of initial layout and because the half-frame format gives you twice as many images per roll as you’d get from a full-frame camera.

Weighing in at just three and a half ounces, this pocket-sized camera is made for on-the-go convenience. It features a 22mm f/9.5 lens — so with no zoom and no autofocus, it’s best for wide-angle shots and back-to-basics experimentation that’s as fun as it is challenging. You can frame shots using the optical viewfinder and deploy the built-in flash in low light or at night. The camera is compatible with black-and-white and color film and requires one AAA battery to work. Choose yours in Black, Brown, Sand, or Sage.

The Details: 22mm lens | 4.3 x 2.4 x 1.5 inches | 3.5 ounces | Optical viewfinder

Best Instant

Fujifilm instax mini evo instant camera.

Not only can you print photos instantly, you can also save a digital version to your smartphone via the app.

You’ll need to recharge after approximately 100 photos.

Available with a retro black or brown leather effect, the Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Instant Camera lets you create 2 x 3-inch prints of your images in approximately 16 seconds. It features an autofocusing 28mm f/2 lens and uses automatic shutter speed and ISO for fool-proof results. Expressing your creativity is easy, with 10 lens effects (including Light Leak, Double Exposure, and Soft Focus) and 10 film effects from Vivid to Sepia. You can use these interchangeably for a total of 100 different possibilities.

Other features include a built-in flash, a self-timer, a selfie mirror, and a 3-inch LCD screen. What makes this instant camera different from the Polaroids of the past is the ability to use it in conjunction with the INSTAX app. This means being able to use your smartphone as a remote for releasing the camera shutter (handy for group shots and selfies) and being able to save a digital version of your instant prints complete with an INSTAX frame. From there, you can upload them to social media. You can even use Bluetooth to send pictures from your smartphone to the camera to print.

Best Durable

Ricoh pentax wg-90 digital camera.

Drop it, crush it, take it out in a sandstorm or underwater and this camera should still emerge in one piece.

If you’re looking for an underwater camera for scuba diving, scroll on — we’ve found ones with better depth ratings.

When it comes to durability, B&H’s Mark Steinberg recommends the Ricoh Pentax WG-90 above all others. It lives up to its armored appearance with some pretty impressive technical specs. It’s waterproof up to 46 feet underwater for up to two hours of continuous operation, making it ideal for surface water sports or snorkeling. It’s also shockproof against falls from five feet, crushproof against 220-pound-force weights, and dustproof. Heading somewhere cold? Unlike many of the cameras on this list, this one will still operate in temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit.

Toughness aside, it’s also a great little camera from a photography perspective. The 16-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor offers high sensitivity and minimal noise, even when using the maximum ISO setting (6400.) A built-in ring light and flash help out in low-light situations, while the 28–140mm equivalent lens is suited to both wide-angle and short telephoto use with a 5x optical zoom. Choose from a range of shooting modes including Fish-Eye, Sports, and Handheld Night; or capture moving images with Full HD video.

Best for Action Sports

Gopro hero12 black.

This camera stands out for its Emmy Award-winning video stabilization, 177-degree field of view, and action-ready, rugged build.

With a super wide-angle lens and no zoom functionality, this is a specialist camera for POV filming and photography only.

GoPro’s reputation precedes it in the action sports category, and the latest Hero12 camera really is a thing of wonder. Film High Dynamic Range (HDR) video in 5.3K, 4K, 2.7K, or Full HD. Revel in the 177-degree field of view that shows more of your daredevil POV than ever before. And know that whether you’re jumping out of an airplane or racing at high speed down a mountain, the camera’s HyperSmooth 6.0 video stabilization ensures the footage is super smooth. Turning a full 360 degrees? Horizon Lock keeps the horizon level throughout.

You can film vertically for direct upload to social media and slow things down by up to eight times for an epic fast-action/slow-motion effect. Meanwhile, Bluetooth audio support allows you to connect headphones for sound recording and remote voice commands. The camera also takes 27-megapixel still photos. Or, you can grab 24.7 megapixel stills from your video. The GoPro 12 is waterproof to 33 feet, can run continuously for over two and a half hours on Full HD, and features a new Enduro battery especially for temperatures down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit.

Best Waterproof

Sealife micro 3.0 digital underwater camera.

This camera dives as deep as you can and takes the stress out of O-ring maintenance with a permanently sealed body.

It’s very definitely geared towards underwater photography rather than as an all-rounder for topside travel shots.

Unlike the other waterproof cameras on this list, the SeaLife Micro 3.0 is designed with scuba divers in mind. It’s waterproof to 200 feet (exceeding recreational dive limits) and is permanently sealed making it suitable for even the most careless or inexperienced underwater photographer. Use the 100-degree wide-angle lens to get as close as possible to your subject for the best results. You can rely on the built-in underwater color correction to counteract the loss of red tones; or, for the more advanced, there’s a manual white balance option.

We love the large, f/2.8 aperture for its ability to make the most of limited ambient light. But if you tend to dive deep, the camera is also compatible with single or double after-market strobe sets. The camera delivers high-quality, 16-megapixel images in single or burst shooting mode and can also film 4K or Full HD video. And if you get all the way out to the dive site and realize you’ve left your memory card at home? No problem, the 64GB internal memory’s got your back. Finally, Piano Key controls make for easy menu navigation, even with dive gloves on.

Best Budget

Kodak pixpro az255 camera.

This is the ideal camera for beginners who want to learn, with automatic and manual settings at a very reasonable price point.

It requires two AA batteries.

If you’re just getting into photography and don’t want to make a major investment just yet, the Kodak Pixpro AZ255 offers plenty of functionality for roughly nine times less money than our overall winner. It uses a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor and is well suited to most kinds of photography with a wide-angle 24mm lens and a 25x optical zoom that brings you significantly closer to your subject without compromising image quality. You can also use the 4x digital zoom, although you should expect some pixelation.

Optical Image Stabilization helps eliminate blur, a continuous shooting mode ensures you never miss that action shot, and a built-in flash allows for nighttime shooting. And although the autofocus isn’t nearly as advanced as the more expensive models on this list, you’ll still benefit from subject tracking and face detection. Our favorite feature? The ability to keep things simple with 22 preset scene modes or to experiment with aperture priority, shutter priority, and full manual settings. You’re not limited to still photos — this camera also shoots Full HD video.

Tips for Buying a Compact Camera

Understand the specs.

Before purchasing a compact camera, it’s important to understand some of the key specifications to look out for.

Sensor size: Sensor size has the greatest impact on photo quality and clarity, especially in low-light conditions. The larger the sensor, the better your image quality will be with greater sensitivity and less noise (or graininess). B&H Senior Technologist Mark Steinberg says that BSI, or Back Side Illumination, sensors are superior for their ability to increase light-gathering efficiency.

Megapixels: A megapixel equals one million pixels. Pixels are the tiny digital squares that make up your image and the more you have, the more detail you’ll capture. Most digital cameras offer sufficient megapixels for viewing on a screen. But the number of megapixels becomes important when zooming in on an image, cropping it, or printing it. Look for a higher number of megapixels if you plan on printing your photos, but bear in mind that more megapixels means larger files and less space on your memory card.

Zoom: If you plan on photographing wildlife or anything else that requires a zoom, it’s important to understand the difference between optical and digital zoom. Optical zoom brings the subject closer before capturing the image, with a lens that extends outwards from the camera body. This preserves photo quality. Digital zoom simply crops and resizes a smaller section of the original image, resulting in a blurrier, grainier picture.

LCD screen: The LCD screen is important because it allows you to view and compose your image before taking a picture. It also allows you to play your images back and scroll through the settings menu. Therefore, it’s important to choose a high-resolution LCD screen that displays colors accurately, even in bright light. It also needs to be big enough for you to see details clearly. Some point-and-shoots offer touchscreen capability for increased ease of use.

Viewfinder: Many compact cameras lack a traditional viewfinder (the hole you look through to view and frame your image). But if you plan on shooting in bright conditions, investing in a camera with a viewfinder is helpful for when glare impacts your ability to see the LCD screen clearly.

Video resolution: Video resolution refers to the number of horizontal and vertical pixels. The more you have, the more detailed your footage will be. Look for Full HD (1920 x 1090 pixels) as a minimum or 4K (3840 x 2160 pixels) for premium, cinema-quality video.

Prioritize quality

It goes without saying that for the best results, you should spend as much as you can afford on the best quality camera possible. All of the specifications detailed above are worth considering, but if you focus on just one thing, Steinberg says that the most important factor in terms of image quality is the type and size of the sensor. If you plan on printing your vacation photos or using them to create a photo book or other memento, a reasonable number of megapixels (10 or more) is key. Finally, Steinberg points out that build quality and manufacturer support are also important.

Choose a camera based on your skill level and goals

Having said that, there’s no point in spending a fortune on a high-end compact camera with advanced specifications if all you really want is a simple way of capturing fun vacation snaps for social media. Beginners should prioritize cameras that are intuitive and simple to use. If your goals are more ambitious, Steinberg recommends looking for manual settings that will allow you to fine tune shutter speed, aperture size, and ISO for the best results.

It’s also worth considering where you’re traveling and your planned activities. If your camera will be exposed to dust, sand, humidity, or water, then looking for one that’s IP rated against dust and water ingress is crucial. When it comes to interpreting IP numbers, remember that the first number after the IP relates to dust while the second number relates to water. Only water ratings of seven or higher are fully waterproof. Scuba divers should be sure to check depth ratings.

In addition to considering all of the specifications listed above and how they relate to your requirements, Steinberg says it’s important to consider the ergonomics of the camera. Does it feel comfortable in your hands and next to your face? Are the controls and buttons easy for you to access and operate? Can you view the LCD screen clearly and does the menu navigation system make sense? You should also think about the ease of use. If you’re not sure, consider booking a free in-person or virtual appointment with a B&H expert to talk through different options.

Absolutely, and especially if you choose one with a decent number of megapixels. It’s generally accepted that in order for an image to be made into a high quality print, it needs to have 300 pixels per inch (300 PPI). The number of megapixels required to achieve this depends on how big you want your prints to be. For a standard 6 x 4 inch image, you’d need at least 2.2 megapixels. For a 5 x 7 inch image, you’d need at least 3.2 megapixels. It’s also worth remembering that good printing results are dependent on printer and paper quality too.

Before we tackle this question, it’s important to note that while compact cameras lack a mirror (and mirrorless cameras are more compact than DSLRs), mirrorless cameras are not the same as compact cameras for the purpose of this list. We’ve focused on point-and-shoot cameras for novice photographers and more advanced photographers who prioritize portability. Advantages of point-and-shoots over DSLRs include reduced size and weight, ease of use, and cost.

Mirrorless cameras were introduced in 2004 and have since evolved to compete with DSLRs as the category of choice for intermediate and professional photographers. They have a larger sensor than a traditional point-and-shoot, offering superior image quality. They’re bulkier, cost a lot more, and come with interchangeable lenses. The key difference between mirrorless and DSLR cameras is that mirrorless cameras let light hit the sensor directly whereas DSLRs use a mirror to reflect light onto the sensor.

This difference makes mirrorless cameras quicker and quieter — key advantages for fast-action and wildlife photography. High-end mirrorless cameras can also offer superior autofocus and better performance in low light conditions. DSLRs still hold the edge in terms of viewfinder accuracy, battery life, and a greater range of compatible lenses.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Jessica Macdonald has been writing about travel gear for more than a decade. She’s also a professional photographer who has sold images to many publications including Travel + Leisure. Although she typically shoots with her trusty Nikon DSLR, she has often used compact cameras especially for underwater photography. For this article, she conducted hours of online research and consulted the opinion of Mark Steinberg , a B&H Senior Technologist.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

The 11 Best Travel Cameras

Whether you’re an amateur shutterbug or constantly honing your travel photography skills, these excellent options make finding the right camera for you a snap..

Copy Link copied

The Fujifilm X-T4 is an excellent mirrorless camera for travelers.

Courtesy of Fujifilm

Unless you’re a professional photographer or an obsessed hobbyist who loves researching features and specifications, choosing the right travel camera can be an overwhelming process. There is no “one size fits all”; the way you snap pictures is as personal as the way you pack your suitcase .

If you’re a carry-on-only type of person and just whip out your camera to remember certain moments, you’ll want something small and intuitive, like a point-and-shoot camera. But if you travel in order to take pictures, you’ll want something that gives you more creative control over your shots, and the extra weight of a DSLR camera with interchangeable lenses will be worth it. In some cases, your iPhone or Google Pixel camera might be all you need.

If you’re not sure where to start, our guide to the best cameras for travel will help you find the perfect one for you, whether you’re planning for your next safari or simply want to capture the sunset on a weekend hike.

What to look for in a travel camera

To find the right camera for you, first consider the type of traveler you are and the type of photography you’re interested in. Once you understand your needs, you’ll be able to better assess what features you value and which you don’t. Here are a few to consider:

Are you an active traveler who needs a compact camera that won’t take up much space in a daypack or backpack? Or do you tend to travel with a checked bag that can accommodate a bigger camera? Larger cameras, like DSLRs or mirrorless cameras with lens kits might be bulkier, but they’re also harder to leave behind at a train station than a small, inconspicuous point and shoot.

Along with size, the weight of a camera is one of the most important considerations for travelers, and not just because airlines are increasingly strict about weight limits. A heavy DSLR means more bells and whistles to play with, but lugging one around on a day of sightseeing and spending hours holding it up while you shoot pictures can take a toll on your neck, shoulders, back, and arms.

Capabilities

Generally, cameras with sensors that can capture more pixels (MPs, or megapixels) produce images with better resolution (though there are other factors that can complicate the issue ). But if you’re mostly posting your pictures to Instagram, you don’t need to capture the large, high-quality pictures that top-of-the-line cameras produce. If you enjoy wildlife photography, you might want a camera that shoots fast (around 30 frames per second, or fps). And if you love street photography in marketplaces and other low-light areas, you’ll want a lens that works at low f-stop numbers, because you’ll want that wide aperature to let in as much light as possible when there isn’t much available. And if you crave a lot of creative control, it’ll probably be worth it to you to invest in a camera with manual settings, interchangeable lenses for multiple focal lengths (that is, ability to zoom in), and excellent resolution. Additionally consider whether you’re a photo-only type of person or if you want the option of shooting video.

The way the dials, buttons, screen, and viewfinder of a camera are laid out actually affects how much you enjoy using it. Some setups are just awkward. The best way to figure out if you like the way a camera is set up is to go into a store and test it out.

Battery life

A small consideration but an important one nonetheless, battery life can make or break your travel photography experience. It’s frustrating to bring a camera halfway around the world, only to have it die two hours into your day.

Accessories

Aside from optional accessories—padded bags, straps, and tripods —you may have to invest in (and tote around) other accessories to use the camera; these include additional lenses for your DSLR, backup storage options, and battery packs.

Photography can be an expensive hobby. But the most expensive camera isn’t always the best camera for you. Camera companies release updated versions of popular lines every few years, and the newest, most advanced models with cutting-edge technology will always be expensive; you can usually save a few hundred dollars but still get many of the same features and comparable quality if you opt for the previous model.

What are the different types of travel cameras?

While there many different styles and configurations of camera, the main types of travel cameras include point and shoots, bridge cameras, mirrorless, DSLRs, and action cameras.

Point and shoot

Unless you’re an enthusiastic hobbyist or a professional, a point-and-shoot camera is probably going to suit your purposes perfectly. They are generally small, produce good pictures, and are easy to use—you don’t need to have in-depth knowledge of f-stops, ISO, and file types. You simply point it at your object, click the shutter button, and voila! Picture captured. The trade-off is that you don’t have a lot of control over the final image—these cameras are made for auto mode and often lack advanced manual controls, they only allow you to zoom in so much, and you can’t switch out the lenses. And they generally don’t perform well in low-light situations, though most have a built-in flash.

You likely won’t hear about bridge cameras as often as you will the other cameras on this list. These types of cameras offer more manual control than point-and-shoot options as well as powerful zoom lenses. However, the lens is permanently attached to the body. They’re a good choice for photographers who don’t want to mess around with different lenses but do want to play with more controls than a point-and-shoot camera has.

Think of mirrorless cameras as the next step toward DSLRs. They produce higher quality photos than point and shoots, though not quite as high quality as DSLRs. However, weighing in around 1.5 pounds, they are compact cameras, much smaller and lighter than their more advanced cousins. (The name “mirrorless” comes from the way they capture images—DSLRs project the image through the viewfinder using a mirror, which flips away when you press the shutter button to expose the sensor that actually captures the image. Mirrorless cameras do away with the mirror, making the whole process digital and the camera itself much lighter.) They also feature the manual controls that allow you to adjust exposure, shutter speed, depth of field, and more, and you can swap out lenses. These are a good pick if you’re interested in the art of photography but don’t want to dive into the deep end yet. Many pros also use mirrorless cameras as backups.

Not only does DSLR (digital single lens reflex) deliver high-quality photos with great resolution, but it is also built to last. These cameras are all about versatility. They have the manual functions that allow you a huge amount of creative control over the resulting photo. They’re also made to be used with a number of different lenses. And many of the new models can produce incredible video as well. DSLRs even capture RAW files, which save more information and allow you more control when you’re editing images, as well as the compressed JPEG files. The trade-off, however, is that they’re heavier, bigger, and more expensive than other cameras. And you’ll probably find yourself needing to invest in more accessories, such as external flashes, bounce cards, remote shutter releases, and microphones, than you would for any other type of camera.

Action cameras

Some travelers may be less interested in the amount of artistic control they have over the pictures they take and instead are looking for a rugged camera that will survive a series of extreme adventures. These sorts of cameras should be durable, waterproof, dustproof, and able to withstand long drops. And many don’t even look like traditional cameras—think of GoPros, which bear no resemblance to any of the other cameras on this list; they are extremely hardy and meant to be mounted on helmets, surfboards, selfie sticks, and more, allowing the user a hands-free experience.

The best cameras for travel

Sony RX100 VII ($1,298)
Canon PowerShot G7X Mark II ($629)
Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ1000 ($798)
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III ($549)
Fujifilm X-T4 ($1,699)
Sony a7R III ($2,298)
Leica Q2 ($4,995)
Canon EOS Rebel SL3 ($599)
Nikon D850 ($2,997)
GoPro Hero8 ($300)
Olympus Tough TG-6 ($449)

The best point-and-shoot cameras for travel

The Sony RX100 VII is far more sophisticated than your standard point and shoot.

Courtesy of Sony

Sony RX100 VII

Buy now: $1,298, bhphotovideo.com ; amazon.com
Weight: 10.7 ounces
Size: 4 inches by 2.3 inches by 1.7 inches

Sony’s RX100 line has long been at the top of the list of quality point and shoots, and the new, sleek VII model packs a professional punch for such a small body. It has a versatile 24–200 mm zoom range, a powerful one-inch, 20.1 megapixel sensor, and shoots sharp images at almost any setting. It also records RAW images and features Wi-Fi, which is great for transferring photos from the camera to a phone or computer to quickly post to social media. Its three-inch touch screen can rotate a full 180 degrees, which is great for solo travelers trying to take selfies. The RX100 VII also records 4k (a measure of resolution) video—the kind of quality that vloggers look for. The best part? The VII’s autofocus technology rivals that of Sony cameras with interchangeable lenses; it allows users to track moving subjects and it also detects faces and eyes for both humans and animals. The RX100 line also has a good range of underwater housings for divers.

The pocketable Canon PowerShot G7X Mark II will barely take up space in your carry-on..

Courtesy of Canon

Canon PowerShot G7X Mark II

Buy now: $629, bhphotovideo.com ; amazon.com
Weight: 10.4 ounces
Size: 4.15 inches by 2.4 inches by 1.65 inches

The Canon PowerShot G7X Mark II is small enough to fit in a jacket pocket, but with its one-inch, 20.1 megapixel sensor captures clear photos even in low-light situations. Give it a try in those notoriously hard-to-capture twilight hours, during evening strolls and end-of-the-day cocktails. The control rings make satisfying clicky noises, and the zoom lens has a solid 24–100 mm focal length range. The three-inch LCD screen is tiltable, which helps with overhead or low-level photography, and like the Sony RX100 VII, Wi-Fi capabilities allow you to easily transfer images, which can save in both RAW and JPEG formats. The autofocus is responsive but can’t focus continuously (so you can’t track subjects while shooting in burst mode). It even shoots video at an admirable 1920 x 1080 resolution. The only drawback to the G7X’s slim body is that it lacks a viewfinder, though for some people, using a viewfinder with a camera this small is awkward anyway.

The best bridge camera for travel

The Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ1000 II looks like a DSLR, but you won’t have to worry about interchangeable lenses.

Courtesy of Panasonic

Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ1000 II

Buy now: $798 (was $898), bhphotovideo.com ; amazon.com
Weight: 28.5 ounces
Size: 5.35 inches by 3.82 inches by 5.2 inches

If the zoom on a point and shoot just isn’t enough for you to capture the banks of the Bosphorus from a boat, the Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ1000 II’s 25–400 mm long-range zoom on its fixed lens might be exactly what you’re looking for. The one-inch, 20.1 megapixel sensor captures high-resolution photos in most situations, and an internal image stabilizer works on five axes to help keep your framing consistent even when zoomed all the way out. The camera also records 4k video and features Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connections and a three-inch articulating LCD screen that flips out 180 degrees to the side and tilts 270 degrees. Plus its ergonomic design fits comfortably into most hands and makes this camera feel more like an interchangeable lens camera than a point and shoot.

The best mirrorless cameras for travel

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III is smaller and lighter than most mirrorless cameras, making it perfect for travelers who pack light.

Courtesy of Olympus

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III

Buy now: $549 (body only), bhphotovideo.com
Weight: 14.5 ounces (body only)
Size: 4.8 inches by 3.3 inches by 1.9 inches (body only)

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III is a perfect entry-level mirrorless camera—it’s affordable, but still has the DSLR styling and sophisticated technology that makes it a step up from most entry-level mirrorless models. It holds its own with the fancy features that have become standard, such as five-axis stabilization, three-inch tilting touchscreen LCD, and 4k video recording. The solid 16.1-megapixel sensor and the processor produce sharp photos. An electronic shutter function makes for faster shutter speeds and can also be used in silent mode, making your clicking less conspicuous in museums or temple courtyards. The E-M10 Mark III is a micro four thirds camera—meaning it’s smaller than usual and lighter too—and stacks its large, easy-to-use dials on the top of the body without feeling cramped. It also has a built-in flash. The electronic viewfinder has a great 1.23 magnification, which is helpful when you’re using it for long periods of time.

The Fujifilm X-T4 captures beautiful pictures and video thanks to its 26.1MP sensor and advanced image stabilization.

Fujifilm X-T4

Buy now: $1,699 (body only), bhphotovideo.com ; amazon.com
Weight: 21.4 ounces (body only)
Size: 5.3 inches by 3.7 inches by 2.5 inches (body only)

With the X-T4, released in February 2020, Fujifilm took the already exceptional X-T3 and made it better. The same 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor captures beautiful quality pictures, and the X-T4 also shoots 4k and HD video better than most cameras on the market. But the new model has a much better battery life, snapping around 500 shots on a charge as opposed to the X-T3’s 390. The X-T4 also features in-body image stabilization that uses magnetic force as well as the camera structure to absorb shock. It also boasts fast shutter speeds (30 fps in burst mode), Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth, and it is weather sealed, keeping dust and dirt particles kicked up by the wind—whether you’re in Tierra del Fuego or Chicago—out of the camera body. Like many Fujifilm cameras, the X-T4 has a retro look and mimics the setup of a classic 35 mm film SLR, with the aperture rings on the lenses.

If you’re hesitant to spring for the newest and priciest model, rest assured that X-T line has something for every level of photographer. The last model, the X-T3 ($1,499, bhphotovideo.com ; amazon.com ), lags behind in terms of battery life, but it has a lot of the same features and capabilities as the X-T4 and a lower price tag. The X-T30 ($899, bhphotovideo.com , amazon.com ) is another fan favorite, ditching the weatherproofing and a few buttons to knock off another $500 or so.

The Sony a7R III is known for its excellent electronic viewfinder and crisp resolution.

Sony a7R III

Buy now: $2,298 (was $2,798) (body only), bhphotovideo.com
Weight: 25.9 ounces (body only)
Size: 5.12 inches by 3.15 inches by 3.62 inches (body only)

The aR7 III isn’t the newest kid on the block in Sony’s high-end mirrorless AR7 series, but the aR7 IV ($2,998, bhphotovideo.com , amazon.com ), its pride and joy, costs considerably more and is really aimed at professionals. Of course, if you want to spring for the aR7 IV’s whopping 61-megapixel sensor, which surpasses that of even some full-frame DSLRs, no one will be checking your credentials.

But the a7R III is still an incredibly powerful camera with a huge 42.4-megapixel sensor and noticeably fast shutter speeds and autofocus capabilities. It also shoots fast (30 fps) 4k video, has five-axis stabilization, and its long-lasting battery can run about 600 shoots. One feature that makes the aR7 III a joy to work with is the electronic viewfinder, which produces bright, clear views and refreshes at lightning speed, with none of the lag that others experience. The aR7 isn’t an outstanding performer at low lights, struggling a bit below one-fourth second shutter speeds, but the electronic viewfinder plus weather-sealing makes this a great pick for landscape photographers.

You’ll find yourself more immersed in your environment when shooting with the Leica Q2.

Courtesy of Leica

Buy now: $4,995, bhphotovideo.com ; $5,895, amazon.com
Weight: 23.2 ounces (body only)
Size: 5 inches by 3.76 inches by 2.9 inches (body only)

Leicas are the Bugattis of cameras—ultra high end, super stylish, and exquisitely crafted. No, the Q2 isn’t the type of travel camera you’d toss in a backpack or casually sling over a shoulder, but if you dream of strolling through the Marais with a retro-cool Leica in hand, the Q2 is the one you want. The brand’s reputation for extremely high-quality images with unparalleled color fidelity is well earned, and the Q2 boasts an incredible 47.3 megapixel full-frame sensor. It is also weathersealed, which is always a plus for a traveler, can capture 4k video, and is priced on the lower end of the scale, relative to other Leica models.

What makes the Q2 a good pick for the curious traveler is its fixed 28 mm f1.70 lens and manual focus. Yes, really. While many photographers would argue that the fixed lens is a drawback, it actually forces you to get more involved with the things you shoot. You can’t stay on the fringes of the crowds at Boudhanath Stupa in Nepal, zooming in on interesting characters. You have to join the fray and get almost uncomfortably close to the subjects you want to capture (though, remember to be respectful and ask permission when doing so). Similarly, the manual focus—a feature that all Leicas have—keeps you more in the moment, forcing you to slow down and engage with the scene in front of you. The Q2 does make some concessions—it has macro focusing and 35 mm, 50 mm, and 75 mm crops so you can simulate different zoom lengths. And unlike other Leica cameras, the Q2 also has autofocus, and a quick one at that, which travelers will find useful in busy street scenes.

The best DSLR cameras for travel

The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 is a great pick for amateur travel photographers looking to get a little more serious about their hobby.

Canon EOS Rebel SL3

Buy now: $599 (body only), bhphotovideo.com ; amazon.com
Weight: 15.84 ounces (body only)
Size: 4.8 inches by 3.7 inches by 2.8 inches (body only)

With the EOS Rebel SL3, Canon took one of its best ultra-compact entry-level DSLRs and made it better. Since 2017, the Canon EOS Rebel T7i, which is now discontinued, was considered one of the best DSLRs for beginners on the market, offering approachable features and imaging technology inherited from Canon’s previous cameras aimed at professionals; the SL3, released last year, is almost identical and shares just about all the important features: Both cameras offer a resolution of 24 megapixels and have the same sensor (the APS-C). Both are compatible with Canon’s comprehensive system of lenses—one of the largest lineups available—which gives new and seasoned photographers a lot of room to play.

The T7i is a little faster than the SL3, but the slightly slimmer and lighter SL3, our pick for a better travel camera, has a much longer battery life, clicking away through 1,070 photos as opposed to the T7i’s 600. And unlike its predecessor, the SL3 can shoot 4k video, which more and more travel photographers consider the standard. To top it all off, the SL3 is about 20 percent cheaper.

The Nikon D850 blurs the line between a professional camera and one meant for hobbyists.

Courtesy of Nikon

Buy now: $2,997 (body only), bhphotovideo.com ; amazon.com
Weight: 26.63 ounces (body only)
Size: 5.7 inches by 4.9 inches by 3.1 inches (body only)

Nikon’s D850 was released in September of 2017, but the powerhouse DSLR is still a favorite for prosumers, or photographers who straddle the consumer and professional worlds. The D850’s 45.7-megapixel sensor produces crisp photos with beautiful resolution, and it is backside illuminated: The parts of the sensor that capture light are closer to the surface, resulting in sharper pixels at the edges of the image. It also tolerates more light in bright conditions and performs well in low-light conditions too. Nikon is known for its fast, accurate focusing, and the autofocusing on the D850 would thrill any sports photographer. Another great feature of the D850 is its viewfinder, which, with its 0.75x magnification, gives the user a wonderfully realistic view. It also shoots 4k video, and its 3.2-inch touch screen is larger than that of most other cameras.

True, the D850 is a hefty model at 26.63 ounces (about two pounds), but sometimes it’s OK to throw a little weight around, especially if you’re doing the kind of tripod-friendly wildlife or cityscape photography that this camera does so well.

The best action cameras for travel

Adventure travelers no longer need fancy frames to attach the GoPro Hero8 to their gear.

Courtesy of GoPro

GoPro Hero8

Buy now: $300, gopro.com ; $349, bhphotovideo.com ; $299, amazon.com
Weight: 4.1 ounces
Size: 2.61 inches by 1.91 inches by 1.1 inches

The newest member of the GoPro family proves that you don’t have to be an adrenaline junkie to own a GoPro. One of the major upgrades that makes the slimmer Hero8 much more approachable is that it doesn’t require extra hardware to attach it to things like grips, dashboards, and helmets; previous models needed the help of a frame, but the Hero8’s attachments are built into its body. But that’s not to say the Hero8 is any less rugged than other GoPros—it’s still waterproof to 33 feet, and the new model has a Gorilla Glass lens that GoPro claims is twice as impact-resistant as previous lenses.

Rugged features aside, the Hero8 has photo-capturing capabilities that any travel photographer would appreciate: The super-smooth image stabilization obliterates the need for stabilizing accessories, eliminating most of the bounce from footsteps in slow motion. There’s also a touch screen with four adjustment buttons, four digital lenses with different aspect ratios, and the Hero8 can shoot vertically for those who post mostly to Instagram Stories or TikTok. The sensor captures 12 megapixel stills and 4k video. It even supports livestreaming to Facebook, though at a slightly lower 1080/240 resolution. The Night-Lapse function lets you to capture beautiful 4k timelapses of the night sky or a bioluminescent ocean.

The Olympus Tough TG-6 is an action camera made to take just about anything you throw at it.

Olympus Tough TG-6

Buy now: $449, bhphotovideo.com ; $399, amazon.com
Weight: 8.92 ounces
Size: 4.45 inches by 2.6 inches by 1.26 inches

Snorkelers, river rafters, and anyone who refuses to let a little rain dampen a trip, this one’s for you. Technically, the Olympus Tough TG-6 is a point and shoot, but the pocketable waterproof camera was built for adventure—a sort of a middle ground between a traditional point and shoot and a GoPro. Not only is it waterproof up to 50 feet, but it’s also crushproof (up to 100 kilograms of force) and freezeproof (down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit). Yet the 12-megapixel sensor still delivers beautiful photographs in both RAW and JPEG formats, and the TG-6 can also shoot 4k video.

Like all waterproof cameras, the TG-6 keeps its lens safely inside the body, and its 25–100 mm zoom range doesn’t rival that of some of the other point and shoots on this list. However, its macro shooting capabilities are superior to others in the class. Botany enthusiasts will find this useful for snapping up-close shots of rain forest flora without worrying about wet conditions. It performs decently in low-light conditions, but not if you’re zoomed in. And you might want to pack an extra battery; this one won’t break any records.

>>Next: The Best Tripod for Travelers Is Super Compact and Not Dorky at All

Reviews TV REVIEWS v1.11 HEADPHONES REVIEWS v1.7 MONITOR REVIEWS v2.0 SOUNDBAR REVIEWS v1.3 MOUSE REVIEWS v1.5 KEYBOARD REVIEWS v1.3.1 PRINTER REVIEWS v1.2 VACUUM REVIEWS v1.3 PROJECTOR REVIEWS v0.9 TOASTER REVIEWS v1.0 BLENDER REVIEWS v1.0 AIR PURIFIER REVIEWS v1.0 KEYBOARD SWITCH REVIEWS v1.0 SPEAKER REVIEWS v0.8 CAMERA REVIEWS v0.12.1 LAPTOP REVIEWS v0.8.2
In Progress
Newsletters
Mirrorless For Travel
Table of Contents
Best Camera
Best Full Frame
Best Upper Mid-Range
Best Mid-Range
Best Budget
Best Vlogging

Notable Mentions

Recent updates, all reviews, the 6 best mirrorless cameras for travel - spring 2024 reviews.

As is often the case, the best camera for the job is usually the one you've already got on you, and that's especially true when you're traveling and likely don't have the space to pack a bulky camera kit. A smartphone will suffice for most people, especially since smartphone cameras are getting more impressive by the year. But if you want to take your travel photography to the next level, a mirrorless interchangeable lens camera will get you there. While the battery life on mirrorless cameras isn't as strong as their DSLR counterparts, they're tough to beat on portability, making them great travel cameras if you also want the flexibility to shoot with different lenses.

We've bought and tested over 100 cameras in our lab, and below, you'll find our recommendations for the best mirrorless cameras for travel. In this article, we limit ourselves to mirrorless cameras with interchangeable lenses. If you'd prefer a fixed-lens compact camera, check out our best compact cameras for travel instead. You can also check out our top vlogging cameras if you're a travel vlogger. Or, if you want a mirrorless camera for use beyond just traveling, see our recommendations for the best mirrorless cameras overall.

Best Mirrorless Camera For Travel

Among mirrorless options, the Fujifilm X-T5 stands out as one of the best for travel photography. It's aimed at enthusiast photographers, and it has old-school exposure dials that make it easy to adjust settings on the go. It also has a relatively portable, lightweight design and sturdy build, with weather-sealing for added peace of mind when shooting in poor weather conditions. Beyond its sleek exterior, it also comes equipped with one of the highest-resolution APS-C sensors on the market, with a whopping 40.2 megapixels, so it captures incredibly detailed images with plenty of leeway to crop and adjust your photos.

If that wasn't enough, it has an excellent battery life for a mirrorless model and features Fujifilm's most advanced autofocus yet, with intuitive AF tracking and subject detection for a wide range of subjects, including people, birds, and vehicles. Plus, the wide range of excellent, portable lenses available for Fuji's X mount is another bonus. Overall, the X-T5's combination of image quality, portability, and photography-first design make it our top pick for the intrepid travel photographer.

See our review

Best Full Frame Mirrorless Camera For Travel

If you're looking for the best possible image quality, the Sony α7C II is hard to beat for high-level, National Geographic-worthy travel photography. It's one of the most compact full-frame bodies on the market, and while full-frame lenses are still bigger than APS-C or Micro Four Thirds alternatives, the compact body helps make a more portable kit. Its compact size does mean fewer custom buttons and an uncomfortably small viewfinder; however, these are small sacrifices to make if you need portability but still want the greater dynamic range and noise handling that comes with a full-frame sensor.

Though the camera's 33-megapixel sensor is its real selling point, it also boasts a long battery life, excellent weather-sealed build quality, and one of the best autofocus systems on the market, not to mention a wide range of both native and third-party lens options. If you want to save some money, you can find the original Sony α7C for a steal, considering how similarly it performs for photography, though it has a slightly lower-resolution sensor and uses an older version of Sony's AF.

Best Upper Mid-Range Mirrorless Camera For Travel

Micro Four Thirds (MFT) models like the OM SYSTEM OM-5 are practically made for travel photography. Though there's a slight trade-off in low-light noise handling with an MFT sensor, the camera can still capture beautiful images, especially when paired with a good lens. Beyond that, it's packed with some neat computational features, like a digital ND filter and a high-resolution composite mode to capture stunningly detailed landscapes. Plus, the MFT system has a well-established lineup of lenses, including more compact options that'll make for a more portable overall kit.

On top of that, the OM-5 is weather-sealed and ruggedly built, giving you some peace of mind while traveling. Built-in image stabilization allows you to get clear shots at slower shutter speeds, and the camera has a decent autofocus system, though it falls short of the standard set by brands like Sony and Canon. Battery life is also underwhelming, but this model is still a sure bet if you're looking for a portable and feature-rich camera system at a reasonable price point. If you can find it for cheaper, the older Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III offers near-identical performance, though it uses an older sensor and lacks a few extra features found on the OM-5, like 'Live ND.'

Best Mid-Range Mirrorless Camera For Travel

As far as mid-range options go, the Fujifilm X-T30 II is an excellent choice with a highly portable body. Like the higher-end Fujifilm X-T5 above, it has a sleek retro-inspired design with the same exposure dial setup, giving you more hands-on control over camera settings on the fly. The camera's APS-C sensor also captures excellent image quality, with film simulation profiles that let you change up the look of your photos in-camera.

While competitors like the Sony α6400 (or one of its α6x00 series siblings) might have better autofocus, the combination of physical controls and Fujifilm's excellent in-camera processing make this camera a blast to shoot with. Throw in a solid selection of fast prime lenses, and you've got a great camera for travel photography, particularly if you're interested in capturing people or street scenes. That said, unlike the OM SYSTEM OM-5 mentioned above, there's no IBIS here, and the camera is less versatile for videos and vlogs because of its tilt screen.

Best Budget Mirrorless Camera For Travel

If you're on a tighter budget, the small and mighty Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV offers a ton of value for its price. Like its higher-end sibling above, it uses an MFT sensor, making for a more portable overall kit with a budget-friendly price tag. It's a great option for beginners, with simple controls and plenty of creative shooting modes that allow you to play with different photography styles.

Beyond that, this is one of the few cameras at this price point with in-body image stabilization, which can help reduce camera shake in videos or make it easier to get clear handheld shots at slower shutter speeds. That said, this model doesn't have the most reliable autofocus, so if that's important to you, the Canon EOS R50 is a good alternative with a larger APS-C sensor and a more effective AF system. Just be aware that there are fewer lens options for Canon's RF mount, and the lenses are generally bigger.

Best Mirrorless Vlogging Camera For Travel

If you're more inclined to shoot videos while traveling, consider a vlogging camera like the Sony ZV-E10. It's small and lightweight, so it's easy to toss into a bag and take on the go. While it doesn't have a viewfinder like the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV , its fully articulated screen is perfect for vlogging, allowing you to monitor yourself while shooting. It also has vlogging-friendly features like a detachable windscreen to reduce ambient noise, specialized focus modes, and a great battery life.

It's worth noting that the camera doesn't have built-in stabilization, and its e-stabilization feature can introduce a distracting wobble effect, so you're better off using an optically stabilized lens if you want to keep the camera shake to a minimum. Otherwise, the ZV-E10's relatively low price, convenient size, and great video quality make this the ideal mirrorless camera for travel vlogging.

Fujifilm X-T4: The Fujifilm X-T4 is the predecessor to the Fujifilm X-T5, and though it's a tad heavier, it's a great choice if you want to save money, offering many of the same advantages. It uses an older processor, a lower-resolution sensor, and a less reliable autofocus system. See our review
OM SYSTEM OM-1: The OM SYSTEM OM-1 is a fantastic Micro Four Thirds camera. It's more rugged and better built than the OM SYSTEM OM-5, but it's also pricier and likely overkill for most people. See our review

May 16, 2024: We replaced the Sony α7C with the Sony α7C II because it has better availability than its predecessor, but we still recommend the original α7C as a cheaper alternative.

Mar 20, 2024: We've reviewed the article to ensure the picks and text are up to date.

Jan 26, 2024: Replaced the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III with the OM SYSTEM OM-5, as it's more widely available.

Oct 27, 2023: Added mention of the Sony α7C II to flesh out the market context for the Sony a7C.

Aug 31, 2023: Added the Fujifilm X-T5 as the 'Best Mirrorless Camera For Travel' and shifted the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III down to the upper mid-range spot.

Our recommendations above are what we think are currently the best mirrorless cameras for travel for most people to buy, according to their needs. We factor in the price, feedback from our visitors, and availability (no cameras that are difficult to find or almost out of stock in the U.S.).

If you'd like to choose for yourself, here's the list of all our interchangeable-lens mirrorless camera reviews, ranked by their suitability for travel photography. Be careful not to get caught up in the details. There is no single perfect camera. Personal taste, preference, and shooting habits will matter more in your selection.

Best Whiskey
Best Gym Shoes
Best Pocket Knives
Best Apple Watch
Porsche Models

The Best Compact Travel Cameras to Take on Your Next Adventure

These tiny point-and-shoot digitals cameras can capture high-resolution photos and videos, and they won’t weigh you down on your travels. They’re also reasonably affordable.

a collage of three among the best travel cameras

By Henry Phillips

Every product is carefully selected by our editors. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission. Learn more

A new wave of compact digital cameras has been hitting the market steadily over the past few years, with each new release getting closer to pro-level DSLRs in terms of optics quality and resolution. Pocket-sized and powerful, these compact cameras are changing the way in which consumer and prosumer photographers capture moments while on the road. Before you head out on your next adventure, consider leaving the DSLR behind and opting for one of the more sensible options below.

Products in the Guide

The Do-It-All Travel Camera

The Purist Smartphone Upgrade

The Enthusiast Fixed-Lens

The Fixed Lens Grail

Compact Interchangeable Mirrorless

Small-But-Mighty Full Frame System

Unlike “DSLR” or “Mirrorless” , the term “travel camera” is a bit murky. So, for the sake of this article (and our advice to you) let’s say that we’re looking for a lightweight camera (DSLRs: out), preferably with a fixed lens but potentially interchangeable if things don’t get too bulky. It should be attractive, too. We want to be able to plunk this thing on a cafe table and not look like a total neckbeard.

Otherwise, it should be pretty user-friendly, sure the Leica M11 is a fantastic travel camera, but we don’t have the time or money to get into manual focus rangefinder systems. Let’s stick to snappy autofocus cameras with the ability for some quick artistic controls (nix the ultra-cheap point and shoots) like aperture. Good phone connectivity is a huge plus.

Generally, you should be able to see a cool fleeting moment, capture said moment and have it on your phone within a pretty short amount of time, and you shouldn’t have to look like a dork while doing it.

What to Look for

Sensor size: Generally, bigger is better when it comes to sensor size. A bigger sensor can gather more light — and thus more detail — and so it’s able to create a higher-quality final image. A bigger sensor can help with things like background blur and low-light performance, too.

Lens: Most travel-sized cameras don’t support interchangeable lenses — although there are exceptions — meaning that the lens it comes with is the only lens you get. So the lens’s “zoom range” and “aperture” are very important.

Size and weight: The whole point of a travel camera is for it to be compact yet stillbe able to shoot better quality photos and videos than your smartphone. The smaller the camera, the more portable and travel-friendly it is. However, the smaller the camera, the smaller its sensor tends to be. So there tends to be a fine line between size and image quality.

Video Chops : If you’re in the market for a travel camera to shoot video, keep a close eye on the video specs. Not all smaller cameras have 4K (or even 8K) video, especially if they’re several years old. Also, a lot of manufacturers make cameras at similar price points, but one is better for video and one is better for stills (Fujifilm and Sony are notorious for this).

How We Tested

We’ve been writing about and reviewing cameras and photography gear for near-on a decade. We also work with major brands and talk to professional photographers and other experts within the industry. The below selections of travel cameras are a combination of products that we’ve had hands-on experience with as well as products that are made by brands trusted within the space. When reviewing, we test each camera’s photo and video shooting capabilities, as well as their ease of use, size and general durability.

Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX100 VII

$1,298.00 at B&H Photo
Time tested, refined design
Ultra compact
Feature rich
Can take some time to get the hang of
Smaller 1" sensor won't feel quite as "special" as something bigger
Sensor: 20.1MP 1-inch Exmor RS BSI CMOS Sensor
Lens: Zeiss Vario-Sonnar f/2.8-4.5 Lens, 24-200mm (35mm equivalent)
Year released: August 2019

Sony’s RX100 line of compact shooters has long been a fan favorite and the VII is the latest and greatest model — it’s really just a great all-around travel camera. It’s packing a solid (if a bit petite) 20.1MP 1-inch sensor behind a quality zoom lens and a very cool pop-up viewfinder. Plus, with 4K HDR video capabilities, terrific advanced tracking and autofocus features, a flip-around viewfinder and an external mic port (a first for a Sony RX100), the VII is really the perfect camera for amateur (and even serious) bloggers.

Ricoh GRIIIx

Ricoh GR IIIx

$1,046.95 at B&H Photo
Everything you need, nothing you don't
RAW image quality is fantastic
No viewfinder
Sensor: 24.2MP APS-C CMOS Sensor
Lens: 40mm f/2.8 Lens (35mm Equivalent)
Year released: 2021

The normal GRIII is a great little camera and the GRIIIx is an even great er little camera. The GRIII line is basically defined by having a honking big 24.2MP APS-C sensor, a fast, non-zoom lens, and nearly nothing else. It’s a purist camera that does one thing very well: taking photos. Though technically personal preference, we like the GRIIIx more because of its tighter 40mm focal length, which is right in the middle of what people would consider normal, instead of the original GRIII’s 28mm lens (wide). Generally, the 40mm focal length is gonna feel more special/different when compared to your phone camera.

Fujifilm X100V

Fuijifilm X100V

$1,399.00 at B&H Photo
Awesome hybrid viewfinder
Very good looking
External controls
You're paying extra for that viewfinder
Getting a bit long in the tooth
Sensor: 26.1 APS-C X-Trans
Lens: 35mm f/2 (35mm equivalent)
Year released: 2020

The Fujifilm X100V is just so. dang. good. It’s got a fast, 35mm f/2 lens projecting onto fuji’s omnipresent (see below) and fantastic 26.1MP APS-C sensor. It’s got classic looks and intuitive external controls for key settings, but what really sets this camera apart is the viewfinder. It’s this super trick/weird hybrid setup where you’ve got the option to either look at a very high-quality electronic viewfinder or a real-deal optical finder with all sorts of cool info overlaid. If you think it sounds like a gimmick…you’re mostly right, but it’s a very fun experience to shoot around in the optical viewfinder mode (even if you’ll spend most of your time in the EVF mode).

$4,995.00 at B&H Photo
Lens is God's gift to man
Sensor is Germany's gift to man
Price is devastatingly high
Your phone will hate dealing with 47 megapixel raw files
Sensor: 47.3MP Full-Frame CMOS Sensor
Lens: Summilux 28mm f/1.7 ASPH. Lens
Year released: 2019

The Leica Q2 is the company’s fixed-lens full-frame digital camera and it looks basically identical to the company’s original Q, which was a smash hit amongst photographers who valued portability, fast speeds, minimalism and, most importantly, could afford the Q’s immense price tag. Like its predecessor, the Q2 once again proves that a Leica can have autofocus, an electronic viewfinder and a fixed lens – and still be a real Leica. The new model is more durable (and splash-resistant) and has better connectivity, but more importantly, a significantly upgraded sensor, with almost double the resolution (47.3 vs 24.2).

The Leica Q2 will likely be a grail item for most people. If money is no object (or you just want to splurge), however, this is a travel camera to buy if you want to be the envy of all your friends. For bonus points, track down the ultra-cool “Reporter” edition.

Fujifilm X-T30 II

$899.00 at B&H Photo
Compact size
Affordable, excellent lenses
Small-ish viewfinder
No sensor stabilization
Sensor: 26.1MP APS-C X-Trans BSI CMOS 4 Sensor
Lens: multiple X-mount lenses available

Best to think of Fuji’s X-T30 II as the sensible upgrade from a fixed lens system. It’s not necessarily more expensive, but you’ll be lugging around some extra lenses. The interchangeable-lens mirrorless camera is a pretty perfect travel camera for those that want to do the photo deep dive and have the ultimate flexibility that you can only get by having multiple lenses. It’s small and lightweight, plus it’s not terribly expensive, but the performance levels you get with this thing are off the charts. It has a huge APS-C image sensor, fast processor, incredible autofocus (on par with Sony’s APS-C offerings) and shoots 4k video at 30 frames per second.

You’ll get some top-notch design and Fujifilm’s X-mount lenses – particularly the non-zoom lenses – are top-notch and not too expensive. If you’ve got this body, a 23mm f/2 and a 50mm f/2 in your bag, you’re golden.

$1,598.00 at B&H Photo
Huge performance in a tiny package
E-mount lens ecosystem is massive
Aging internals
Some user interface quirks that require a learning curve
Sensor: 24.2MP Full-Frame Exmor R BSI Sensor
Lens: Sony E-Mount
Year Released: 2020

It’s best to think of Sony’s full-frame A7C as an A7III in a new housing with smarter autofocus. That is to say, it’s an absolute unit. Its main selling point is cramming a huge, 24.2MP full-frame sensor into a tiny body with an interchangeable lens mount. Autofocus is snappy and it somehow manages to fit a 5-axis sensor stabilization in there too. The performance-per-cubic-inch of this camera is incredibly impressive and the fact that you get access to Sony’s massive (and very good) line of full-frame E-mount lenses is just gravy.

Other Cameras to Consider

Our recommendations are based on real-world testing and hands-on experience. Here’s a snapshot of new and unreleased cameras our testers are considering for future updates to this guide.

Fujifilm X-T5 ($1,699+) : Released in November 2022, the Fujifilm X-T5 is the company’s new flagship compact camera. It’s smaller, lighter and less video-focused than the X-T4. And it has many of the same hardware — including the same 40-megapixel APS-C sensor and X Processor — as Fujilfim’s higher-end X-H2.

Canon PowerShot SX740 HS ($599) : This little point-and-shoot is a fan favorite. It’s a few years old — released in mid-2018 — so you often find it heavily discounted, but it also over-delivers in a couple key ways. It has great zoom capabilities (up to 40x optical zoom), can shoot 4K video and has a flip-up viewfinder. The main downsides? It lacks a touchscreen and its 20.3-megapixel sensor is a bit dated.

Nikon Z50 ($995+) : Released in late 2019, the Z50 is Nikon’s first APS-C mirrorless camera. It comes with a 20.9-megapixel CMOS sensor and works with Nikon’s Z-mount ecosystem of lenses (same as the company’s flagship full-frame mirrorless cameras, the Z6 and Z7). Yet it’s also truly a compact camera that’s easy enough to wield one-handed.

Fujifilm X-E4 ($849+) : The Fujifilm X-E4 is a rangefinder-style mirrorless camera that was released in early 2021. It’s the company’s smallest camera that works with its X-series of lenses. It has a 26.1-megapixel APS-C sensor, a super snappy processor and a convenient LCD touchscreen that opens up a range of photo- and video-shooting options.

APS-C vs full-frame – which sensor size is best?

Why are we obsessed by full-frame sensors, fujifilm x100v and x100vi alternatives best retro cameras, nikon z8 wins product of the year at the 2024 ap awards, urban life: submit your street photos to apoy 2024.

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works

Home » The best travel cameras for 2024

The best travel cameras for 2024

Andy Westlake rounds up our pick of the best travel cameras for trips long and short, vacations and all other adventures

Welcome to our guide to the best travel cameras and holiday cameras! Here, we are going to be running through our picks for the best small and light cameras to take away with you. A full camera setup tends to be too bulky and heavy to use on a photo trip or vacation, while a smartphone will generally be too restrictive in terms of what it can capture (and never mind the battery). A dedicated travel camera is the ideal solution.

At AP, our review team tests cameras of all types, and that includes travel cameras. DSLRs, mirrorless models and compact cameras have all passed across our testing bench, and we’ve chosen the best of the best for this guide. This doesn’t just mean the most expensive premium models – after all, travel is expensive enough without having to add a whacking great camera bill on top.

Of course, you do have to spend a bit of money to make sure you get something worth buying. So, we’ve put together a list to suit a range of budgets, including new models and older ones that have come down in price. However, every camera on here has one thing in common – it impressed our reviewing team enough to earn their recommendation.

We’ve got plenty of advice for taking better travel images here .

How to choose the best travel camera or holiday camera

So what features might be most desirable for a travel camera? Small size and light weight are a given, and we’ve assumed that most users will prefer using a zoom lens , quite probably with an extended range. This could be complemented by a couple of small primes , for shooting in low light or going out in the evening. It might also make sense to add an ultra-wideangle zoom for architecture, landscapes or interiors.

As such, where we’ve picked an interchangeable-lens camera , we’ve also provided a lens recommendation, generally one that you can buy bundled with the camera. The fixed-lens compact cameras we’ve picked generally have generous zoom ranges , with the exception of the Fujifilm X100V, which is loved by travelling street photographers for its super-sharp 35mm prime. This is one we’d recommend for city breaks rather than countryside hikes.

In general, the cameras we’ve chosen in this guide also include fully manual control , a built-in viewfinder and raw format image recording . In order to attain a certain level of image quality, they also use sensors of the 1-inch type or larger . The one exception is the Olympus Tough TG-6, which we have chosen as the best bet for a waterproof camera . Going to be spending most of your time snorkelling on the beach? That one is your best bet.

Read on for our choice of the best travel cameras and holiday cameras that are available right now, including both high-end pocket cameras and lightweight mirrorless models teamed up with versatile zoom lenses.

Where to find the best travel and vacation cameras:

Best waterproof travel camera: Olympus Tough TG-6 – check best price
Best fixed-lens compact for travel: Fujifilm X100V – check best price
Best zoom compact for travel: Panasonic LX100 II – check best price
Best point and shoot for travel: Panasonic Lumix TZ200 / ZS200 – check best price
Sony RX100 VII – check best price
Best all-in-one travel camera: Sony RX10 IV – check for best price
Best DSLR for travel: Nikon D5600 – check best price
Best travel camera for enthusiasts: Fujifilm X-S10 – check best price
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III – check best price
Nikon Z 5 – check best price

The best travel cameras and vacation cameras: our full list

Olympus tough tg-6 – $489 / £399.

Olympus Tough TG-6 (Red) Lego for scale. Photo Joshua Waller

At a glance

25-100mm f/2-4.9 lens
12MP 1/2.3in sensor
ISO 100-12,800
20fps continuous shooting
3in, 1.04m-dot screen

The Olympus Tough TG-6 is different from the other cameras included in this round-up, as it employs a relatively small sensor, which means it won’t give anywhere near the same image quality. It also does without a viewfinder, relying solely on a fixed rear screen instead. But it makes our list simply because it’s the best rugged camera you can buy right now.

Key to its attraction is its sheer robustness. The TG-6 is waterproof to 15m, shockproof to a drop from 2.4m, freezeproof to -10°C, and crushproof . So you can use it without any worries on the beach or in the sea. It also boasts impressive close-up capability and an extensive range of underwater modes, plus an extensive range of lighting and lens accessories.

For outdoor adventurers, it also includes a suite of environmental sensors that allow you to keep track of your travels, including GPS with a compass, a thermometer and an accelerometer.

Read our full review of the Olympus Tough TG-6 .

What we like:

Supremely rugged build
Has optical zoom (many tough compacts don’t)
Useful environmental features

What we don’t like:

Small sensor
No viewfinder

Jellyfish, taken with the Olympus Tough TG-6 one of the best travel cameras

Jellyfish, taken with the Olympus Tough TG-6, photo Joshua Waller

Take a look at other waterproof and underwater camera options here: Top 12 Best Waterproof and Underwater Cameras

Fujifilm X100V – $1,399 / £1,339

Best travel cameras and holiday cameras: Fujifilm X100V

The Fujifilm X100V is a premium compact camera beloved of street photographers.

At a glance:

35mm equivalent f/2 lens
26.1MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor
ISO 80-51,200 (extended)
11fps continuous shooting
Hybrid optical/electronic viewfinder
3.2in, 1.62m-dot tilting touchscreen

Among all the cameras covered in this article, the Fujifilm X100V is unique, as it’s the only one with a fixed, single-focal-length lens . Usually for travel we presume photographers will prefer a zoom, ideally with an extended range to cover a broad array of subjects. But the X100V is different.

With its APS-C sensor, fixed 35mm equivalent lens, and classic rangefinder-like styling, it embraces a different way of shooting. It’s all about working with a fixed angle of view, and ‘zooming with your feet’ to find your pictures. It’s not for everyone, but for some photographers, it’ll be perfect.

While the X100V looks very much like the previous four models in the X100 series, it brings some significant improvements. Its redesigned lens is sharper, especially at close focus distances, and it gains a tilting rear screen that’s great for discreet, unobtrusive shooting.

Thankfully these upgrades don’t come at the detriment of the camera’s other major attractions, which include analogue dials for shutter speed, ISO, aperture and exposure compensation, and Fujifilm’s unique hybrid viewfinder that gives a choice of optical or electronic viewing.

Despite its old-fashioned good looks, the X100V is packed full of up-to-date features . It’s capable of 11fps shooting, 4K video recording, and face- and eye-detection autofocus. It also benefits from Fujifilm’s superb colour rendition, with a full array of Film Simulation modes on board to provide a variety of different looks.

And for those who really can’t do without a few different lenses, optional wideangle and teleconverters are available, giving 28mm and 50mm equivalent views.

Read our full review of the Fujifilm X100V.

Sublime image quality
Super-sharp lens
Has nailed the street photography feel
Expensive for a compact

Image: Michael Topham

Panasonic LX100 II – $849 / £859

Best travel cameras and holiday cameras: Panasonic LX100 II

The Panasonic Lumix LX100 II

24-75mm equivalent f/1.7-2.8 lens
17MP Four Thirds sensor
ISO 100-25,600 (extended)
11fps shooting
2.76m-dot EVF
3in, 1.24m-dot touchscreen

If you love the idea of an X100-like camera, but can’t live without a zoom, then the Panasonic Lumix LX100 II might just be for you. It boasts a similar array of external controls for shutter speed, aperture and exposure compensation, and incorporates a corner-mounted 2.76m-dot electronic viewfinder. But it also includes a 24-75mm equivalent optically stabilised zoom lens with an unusually fast f/1.7-2.8 aperture. This is particularly impressive given that the camera employs a relatively large Four Thirds type sensor.

One unique feature of the LX100 II lies with the way that it uses its sensor. It employs a multi-aspect ratio design that, at the flick of a switch on the lens barrel, can toggle between 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 settings , all with the same diagonal angle of view, and therefore progressively wider horizontal views. There’s also a 1:1 option for those who enjoy shooting square-format images.

While the LX100 II is very much designed for stills shooters, it also offers 4K video recording , although with a 1.25x crop. Panasonic’s various 4K Photo modes are on board too, in effect shooting 8MP JPEGs at 30fps. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are built-in for connecting to your smartphone.

The real attraction of the LX100 II, though, lies in just how pleasing it is to shoot with, thanks to its robust metal build and engaging control layout. It also delivers fine image quality. For enthusiast photographers who’d like a zoom compact camera that offers lots of manual control and creative potential, there’s nothing else quite like it.

Read our full review of the Panasonic Lumix LX100 II .

Clever multi-aspect sensor
Robust metal body
Fast f/1.7 lens for low light
Somewhat restricted zoom range
Quite bulky for a camera of this type

Panasonic Lumix TZ200 / ZS200 – $697 / £679

Best travel cameras and holiday cameras: Panasonic Lumix TZ200 in hand

The Panasonic Lumix TZ200 is portable and agile, but boasts a hefty zoom range.

24-360mm equivalent f/3.3-6.4 lens
20.1MP 1in sensor
ISO 80-25,600 (extended)
10fps continuous shooting
2.33m-dot viewfinder

Panasonic originally invented the long-lens, pocket-sized ‘travel zoom’ camera, and the TZ200 (or ZS200 in the US) is the ultimate expression of this concept. Like its predecessor the TZ100, it adds a 20MP 1-inch sensor into the mix, to provide considerably improved image quality compared to its cheaper siblings with smaller sensors, such as the TZ95.

But it improves on the TZ100 with a longer 24-360mm equivalent zoom (compared to 25-250mm) and a larger, higher-resolution electronic viewfinder, yet without noticeably increasing in size. For those who can’t afford the TZ200, the TZ100 remains an attractive proposition for £389.

In contrast to its sibling the LX100 II, the TZ200 is very much a point-and-shoot at heart. But it still offers lots of manual control, including a full set of exposure modes and raw format recording. It’s capable of shooting at 10 frames per second, or 7fps with live view between frames. A vast array of features is available for those who’d like to experiment further, including panoramic, multi-exposure, intervalometer and even stop-motion animation modes.

As usual, Panasonic has included 4K video recording, along with its unique 4K Photo mode that allows 8MP JPEGs to be captured at 30fps.

Crucially, the TZ200 gives attractive images, particularly in bright, sunny conditions. It’s also more usable than you might expect in low light, as while the lens’s aperture isn’t especially large, the optical image stabilisation is extremely effective. It’s a great choice for when you just want to carry a pocket point-and-shoot camera but not skimp on zoom range.

Huge zoom in a tiny body
Clever 4K Photo modes
Effective optical stabilisation
Pricier than TZ100
Lens aperture tops out at f/3.3

Sony RX100 VII – $1,298 / £1,049

Best travel cameras and holiday cameras: Sony RX100 VII

The RX100 VII benefits from a pop-up viewfinder.

24-200mm equivalent f/2.8-4.5 lens
20MP 1in sensor
2.36m-dot pop-up EVF
3in, 921k-dot tilting touchscreen

Sony’s RX100-series compact cameras are famed for the way they fit an awful lot of technology into a small, pocketable package. The latest model in the range exemplifies this, with a 24-200mm equivalent f/2.8-4.5 zoom, a 20MP 1-inch stacked CMOS sensor, a pop-up electronic viewfinder and a tilting rear screen, all in a body that’ll slip neatly into a jacket pocket.

What’s more, it’ll shoot at 20 frames per second and record 4K video. Compared to its predecessor, it gains an upgraded sensor that enables Sony’s AI-based tracking autofocus, along with a socket for an external microphone and a few interface improvements. Otherwise, the older RX100 VI offers most of the same features for a slightly more affordable £849.

With 357 phase-detection AF points covering 68% of the frame and Sony’s Real-time Eye AF and Real-time Tracking on board, the RX100 VII has the most sophisticated autofocus of any compact camera . Set it to continuous focus and tracking, and you can almost forget about having to move the AF area or change focus modes ever again. This is very welcome, as in many respects the camera’s ambitious feature set has rather outgrown its simple control layout.

One area where the RX100 VII excels lies with composing your images, thanks its large pop-up viewfinder and tilting rear screen. The lens is a strong performer too, especially when stopped down. Crucially, the camera delivers attractive images which are a noticeable improvement over older Sony models in terms of colour rendition.

Class-leading autofocus
Pocketable form factor
Great viewfinder and screen
Still very pricey
RX100 VI will do most of the same stuff for less money

Sony RX10 IV – $1,698 / £1,499

Best travel cameras and holiday cameras: Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV - Image: Andy Westlake / AP

Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV. Photo credit: Andy Westlake.

24-600mm equivalent f/2.4-4 lens
24fps continuous shooting
2.35m-dot viewfinder
3in, 1.44m-dot tilting touchcreen

For photographers who’d like an all-in-one camera with a long zoom lens , but who are prepared to carry something the size of a DSLR, there’s nothing else quite like the Sony RX10 IV .

Its 24-600mm equivalent optically stabilised lens offers immense versatility and reach, yet still boasts a usefully fast f/2.4-4 aperture . Meanwhile its 20MP 1in stacked CMOS sensor provides a combination of fine image quality and breathtaking speed. The camera also incorporates Sony’s sophisticated autofocus systems, including eye AF for both humans and animals.

The RX10 IV handles well too, with a large, comfortable handgrip. Three rings arranged around the lens barrel control zoom, focus and aperture, and there’s a dedicated exposure compensation dial perfectly placed for operation by your thumb. Focus area selection is handled using either the touchscreen or the rear d-pad. The viewfinder is decently large and gives an accurate preview, while the screen tilts for low-angle shooting.

To fully understand the RX10 IV’s attraction, though, we need to consider how it compares to mirrorless or DSLR alternatives. Quite simply, none can match its zoom range without changing lenses . What’s more, few other cameras get close to its ability to shoot at 24 frames per second with continuous autofocus and a vast 110-frame raw buffer.

The silent electronic shutter provides speeds as fast as 1/32,000sec while minimising any risk of subject distortion. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi provide smartphone connectivity, and as the icing on the cake, it’ll record 4K video. It’s without doubt the best bridge camera that’s ever been made.

Read our original review of the Sony RX10 IV

Incredible built-in zoom range
Fast burst and big buffer
Comfortable, well-engineered handling
Very expensive for a fixed lens

Nikon D5600 + 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6 lens – $969 / £749

Best travel cameras and holiday cameras: Nikon D5600 and 18-140mm lens

The 18-140mm lens transforms the D5600 into a travel photography powerhouse.

24.2MP APS-C sensor
ISO 100-25,600
5fps continuous shooting
Optical pentamirror viewfinder
3.2in, 1.4m-dot fully articulated touchscreen

Some photographers still prefer a traditional DSLR with an optical viewfinder, and Nikon’s D5600 provides a solid specification in a portable package. What’s more, it can be bought in a kit with a versatile 18-140mm kit zoom, offering a 27-210mm equivalent range, for just £749. As the icing on the cake, Nikon’s SnapBridge connectivity can transfer all your pictures automatically to your smartphone , making sharing your adventures a breeze.

In terms of key features, the Nikon D5600 boasts a reasonably solid specification. Its 24.2MP sensor goes up to ISO 25,600 and supports continuous shooting at 5fps. Autofocus employs a 39-point phase-detection system covering the central region of the frame, while metering is handled by a 2,016-pixel RGB sensor.

One area where the D5600 shows its age, though, is with regards to video recording, which is Full HD only, rather than 4K. Recent mirrorless models undoubtedly offer more, but on the other hand, they can’t match the D5600’s impressive 820-shot battery life.

In general the D5600 delivers attractive images, with warm, saturated colours and plenty of detail. It handles nicely too, with the responsive touchscreen making up for a relatively simple set of external controls. Those who’d like to add extra lenses are well served by Nikon’s sizeable F-mount range , including the affordable AF-P DX-Nikkor 10-20mm f/4.5-5.6G VR wideangle zoom and the AF-S DX-Nikkor 35mm f/1.8 G. The latter would nicely complement the zoom for low-light shooting. See our guide to the best Nikon F-mount lenses for more ideas.

Read our original review of the Nikon D5600

Solid DSLR handling
Good connectivity features
Well-priced
Price may go up as it gets harder to find
Middling video spec

Fujifilm X-S10 + 16-80mm f/4 lens – $1698 / £1,399

Fujifilm X-S10 in hand, Photo: Andy Westlake

26.1MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS sensor
2.36m-dot viewfinder
3in, 1.04m-dot fully articulated touchscreen

For enthusiast photographers who’d like a small, lightweight camera that handles well and offers excellent image quality , the Fujifilm X-S10 is extremely appealing. Styled to look and work very much like a shrunken DSLR, it offers most of the features of the firm’s flagship X-T4 in a considerably smaller body.

It comes in kits with various lenses, with prices starting from just below £1,000 for the XC 15-45mm power zoom. We’ve picked the most versatile kit zoom option, the XF 16-80mm F4, which provides a 24-120mm equivalent range.

Based around Fujifilm’s unique 26MP X-Trans CMOS sensor, the X-S10 delivers the firm’s signature attractive JPEG colour rendition. It even has a dedicated dial to select between the various Film Simulation modes, which provide an interesting range of different looks. Other highlights include 5-axis in-body stabilisation that works with every lens, and a fully articulated screen for shooting at unusual angles. When it comes to video, 4K recording is available at up to 30 frames per second.

With its prominent handgrip, twin control dials and joystick for positioning the focus area, the X-S10 provides the kind of handling that should satisfy experienced photographers. Fujifilm also makes the best available range of lenses for the APS-C format, including a nice set of compact primes.

What’s more, the major third-party lens makers have also recently started to support the firm’s X mount, with some interesting optics now available from Samyang, Sigma, and Tamron . This makes the X-S10 a great choice for existing DSLR users looking for a smaller camera.

A newer model, the Fujifilm X-S20 has recently been released and our review team found that when choosing between both models it depends if you’re planning on doing video content, particularly travel vlogging , ‘If you already have the X-S10 and are primarily a stills photographer, then the X-S20 may be overkill for you, but for the budding or experienced videographer, vlogger, and live streamer, the X-S20 hits it out of the park, with a cracking set of video features that really takes it to the next level.’

Read our original review of the Fujifilm X-S10 and how it compares to the newer Fujifilm X-S20 .

Eye-catching images straight out of camera
Excellent X-mount lenses
Effective stabilisation
Still quite pricey

Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III + 14-150mm lens – $1,498 / £1,299

Best travel cameras and holiday cameras: Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is one of the best Micro Four Thirds cameras you can buy.

20.4MP Four Thirds sensor
ISO 64-25,600 (extended)
3in,1.04m-dot fully articulated touchscreen

Olympus cameras have traditionally offered high performance in a compact form factor, and the E-M5 series delivers on this principle particularly well. Like its predecessors, the Mark III is unique in being extremely small and lightweight, while still having a fully weather-sealed body and a good set of external controls. What’s more, you don’t have to spend a huge amount of money to get a matching sealed lens.

Buy it in a kit with the 14-150mm f/4-5.6 II, and you get an extremely useful 28-300mm equivalent lens that’s also dust- and splashproof. If you’re prepared to spend a bit extra, there’s even a 12-200mm superzoom that offers a massive 24-400mm equivalent range. Despite its small size, the E-M5 III doesn’t skimp on features.

Its 20MP sensor includes on-chip phase detection that provides 121 focus points spread across the entire image area. You get 10 frames per second shooting, a decently large viewfinder, and a fully articulated screen. As usual from Olympus, the camera also produces very attractive JPEG images , with well-judged exposure and white balance that complement the firm’s signature punchy colour reproduction.

Micro Four Thirds models inevitably give more visible image noise at high ISOs, but this can often be offset by the superb 5-axis in-body image stabilisation, as it allows you to shoot handheld at remarkably slow shutter speeds. There’s also a good range of affordable f/1.8 prime lenses available for low-light shooting that’ll take up next to no space in your bag. There is also a good choice of lenses .

Read our original review of the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III

Exceptional stabilisation
Loads of lenses available
Weatherproof body
Unavoidably small sensor

Nikon Z 5 + 24-200mm f/4-6.3 lens – $2,193 / £2,029

Best travel cameras and holiday cameras: Nikon Z5 with 24-200mm lens

The Nikon Z 5 is the only full-frame camera on our list.

24.3MP full-frame sensor
ISO 160-51,200
4.5fps continuous shooting
3.69m-dot viewfinder
3.2in, 1.04m-dot tilting touchscreen

If you really can’t do without full frame, the latest mirrorless models are ideal for travel , as they’re smaller and lighter than their DSLR counterparts. It’s also possible to get all-in-one superzoom lenses for them that deliver very creditable results. We’ve chosen the Nikon Z 5 , as it’s available in a kit with the firm’s Z Nikkor 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR for a decent discount over buying the two separately.

The lens has a slightly shorter zoom range than its Canon and Sony counterparts, but provides a welcome weight reduction in return, of about 200g. While the Z 5 counts as Nikon’s ‘entry-level’ full-frame mirrorless body, it doesn’t give up a huge amount compared to the more expensive Nikon Z 6 .

Its 24MP sensor resolves just as much detail in good light, and while it falls behind in terms of noise performance at the highest sensitivities, it’s still perfectly usable at ISO 12,800. However, its maximum shooting speed of 4.5fps looks rather pedestrian by today’s standards, meaning it’s not the best choice for fast action or wildlife. It’s also only able to record 4K video with a significant 1.7x crop.

In other respects, though, the Z 5 maintains most of what makes Nikon’s mirrorless cameras so attractive. The body may be small, but it has plenty of external controls, along with a lovely large viewfinder and a tilting touchscreen . Dual SD card slots offer the option of backing up your images for peace of mind, while in-body IS means you can often do without a tripod. A range of fine fast primes is also available for low-light shooting.

Read our original review of the Nikon Z 5 here

Satisfying controls and handling
Does well in low light
Gorgeous full-frame images
Pedestrian burst rate
Vicious crop into 4K video

Take a look at our latest buying guides for more great options.

What are the best small mirrorless cameras?

Can good cameras really come in small packages? We think so. Here are our best small mirrorless cameras for fantastic image quality.

by Geoff Harris

May 31, 2024

The best DSLR camera you can buy in 2024

For those who love the DSLR system, we reveal the best-buy DSLR models for a range of budgets and genres

A young adult woman is taking a a photograph of her friend on her smartphone

Best smartphones for portrait photography 2024

Most modern smartphones are capable of taking great portraits. Amy Davies rounds-up the best on the market.

by Amy Davies

Looking to improve your photography? Amateur Photographer is the magazine for you, subscribe today and pay just £26 for your first 13 issues!

No thanks, I’m not interested!

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

The Best Travel Cameras for Every Type of Trip

By Meg Reinhardt , Louis Cheslaw , and Lindsay Lambert Day

Maybe you’ve got a dream trip booked, or maybe you’re still dreaming about where to go next. Either way, one thing’s for sure: When the time comes to pack your bags, you’ll want to have the right camera in tow to capture every glorious on-the-road-again moment. But with technology constantly evolving—“Smaller digital cameras have improved dramatically from several years ago,” says New York City-based photographer David Engelhardt—and countless options and features to consider, finding your perfect travel camera for vacation or work can feel overwhelming.

To help narrow the field, we turned to the pros: Engelhardt, former White House photographer Pete Souza , U.K.-based lifestyle photographer Lucy Laucht , and sharpshooters on our own photo team. From discreet, compact models to retro-cool options worthy of being displayed on your bookshelf, here are 15 travel cameras worth taking on the road.

This gallery was last published in November 2019. It has been updated with new information.

Image may contain Electronics and Camera

Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX100 VII

Best for: Traveling light

The Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX100 VII is proof that good things come in small packages. Neil Leifer, whose storied, 50-plus-year career has included shooting more than 200 covers for Sports Illustrated and Time and creating iconic images of Mohammed Ali (his 18th book, Neil Leifer. Boxing. 60 Years of Fights and Fighters , was released earlier this year), says it’s his go-to for personal use. Leifer, an ambassador for the brand through its Sony Artisans of Imagery program, says it’s also often the only one he takes on his travels with Crystal Cruises , for whom he’s a guest speaker. “It looks like a toy, but it has a 24-200mm Zeiss lens, and it’s sharp as a tack,” he says.

Image may contain Electronics Camera and Digital Camera

Best for: Street photography

Whether he’s shooting at home or on the road, Steve McCurry loves the Leica SL2. McCurry, the prolific photographer whose iconic “Afghan Girl” image appeared on National Geographic ’s June 1985 cover, says the SL2’s lenses are the best he’s ever used, and that the camera “is incredibly durable.” Video shooters will appreciate the camera’s super-crisp 5K and 4K recording capabilities, and users who are photographing in rugged settings—dusty, windswept deserts; choppy waters prone to spewing sea spray—will be glad for its weather sealing, which keeps out the elements. Of the SL2, McCurry, who founded the nonprofit ImagineAsia in 2004, adds, “The functionality is very well thought out and sensible.”

Canon EOS R

Best for: Low-angle wildlife photography

“As a wildlife photographer, I am always looking for new angles and fresh perspectives,” says Adam Bannister , resident photographer at Kenya’s Angama Mara and manager of the property’s Angama Photographic Studio . His pick for capturing them: the Canon EOS R for its tilt screen—“It allows me to hold the camera away from my face and still see what I am shooting,” he says—and the ability to activate its silent shutter. “Both [features] will help you to be less noticeable. The result: more candid, less intrusive photographs,” Bannister says. For travelers with a particular interest in wildlife, Bannister also suggests the Canon EOS R5 for its built-in animal eye tracking focus, “which would make this style of photography that much better and [involve] less guess work,” he says.

Fujifilm X100V

Best for: Aesthetes

With its clean edges, satin coating, and top and bottom aluminum plates, the Fujifilm X100V gets big style points. But there’s a lot more to this camera than its retro good looks. The X100V’s new, enhanced 23mm F2.0 lens offers better resolution and lower distortion than previous versions, and its optional weather-resistant adapter ring and protection filter (a first for the X100 series) will keep it safe in wild weather. It also has built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, shoots 4K video, and has a tilting electronic viewfinder, which Engelhardt says “can be handy when composing images from above, or when you’re shooting from the hip and trying to be stealthy.”

The Best Economy Seats for Long-Haul Flights

Jessica Puckett

Olivia Morelli

The 42 Best Things to Do in New York City

Melissa Liebling-Goldberg

The 32 Best Restaurants in New York City

Devra Ferst

Best for: Landscapes, cityscapes, and portraits

“My Leica M10 paired with a 35mm lens is my most trusted travel companion,” says Laucht . “Small, nimble, and film camera-like in appearance, it’s perfect for spontaneous street photography and portraits.” Faster than previous Leica M-System cameras and the slimmest of the brand’s digital M-Camera models, the handsome and compact M10 has an extended ISO range (used to adjust exposure) of 100 to 50,000 that users can adjust via a new setting dial on the top plate, even when the camera’s turned off. A new sensor developed specifically for the M10 means improved color rendition, sharpness, and resolution, too. “I’m yet to find a camera that so perfectly captures the colors and the essence of a moment like the M10 does,” Laucht says.

DJI Mavic 2 Pro

Best for: Aerial photography and video

Sam Muchai , a Nairobi-based photographer and owner of Aerial Affairs , a company that specializes in commercial aerial photography, shoots stills and video from above with the DJI Mavic 2 Pro. “It produces very high-quality images and 4K video, and yet it comes in such a travel-friendly package,” he says of his go-to drone . Bannister also favors the DJI Mavic 2 Pro for shooting from the sky. His tip: “Get a filter set, especially if you want to film with the drone. You need to have really slow shutter speeds, and this means extra light is pushed onto the sensor. By buying a good set of filters for your drone, you can increase the length of time you can film in a day.”

GoPro Hero 9

Best for: Action and adventure sports

When it comes to capturing action in the moment, Muchai grabs his GoPro Hero 9. “I always have one when I travel,” he says. “It's super durable and it's waterproof,” he adds, which makes it great for shooting water sports, off-road adventures, and other outdoor activities. The Hero 9’s in-camera horizon-leveling technology keeps footage stable and straight, and it has a 30 percent longer battery life than previous models. Ideal for users whose digits are busy gripping handlebars, rip cords, or ski poles, the Hero 9 responds to 14 different voice commands (”GoPro, turn on,” “GoPro, take a picture”) in English, French, Spanish, and eight other languages.

Best for: Fuss-free, high-quality photography

“For someone that does not like to stick out while traveling or fuss with a bag of lenses in a range of conditions—climbing sand dunes, traversing jungles, getting caught in a downpour—this camera is compact, unassuming, and weatherproof, with incredible quality to boot,” says Los Angeles-based photographer Marianna Jamadi of the Leica Q2. “Its mirrorless body is stealthy in terms of the shutter release, making scenarios like street shooting seamless for those that don't want to draw attention to themselves.” One feature that might give some potential buyers pause is the 28mm fixed lens, but for Jamadi, it’s a plus. “Instead of switching or deciding on what lens to use, the only way to change focal length is by moving your position,” she says. “This allows you to become fully immersed in the experience of the destination or subject you are photographing. Isn’t this what traveling is all about?”

Best for: Film

The Leica M-A comes recommended by architecture photographer Adrian Gaut , who loves it for the wide range of lenses that can be attached, stylish body, and nods to a classic period in photography. Don’t let the fact that it's a film camera without a battery send you running for the hills. Instead, look at it as a chance to spend more time focusing in the moment and thinking about each exposure—and to enjoy the post-trip magic of getting film back from the lab, surprises, errors, and all.

Ricoh GR III

Best for: A compact camera

For the purists, Ricoh produces a top-of-the-line compact camera. The third and latest in its popular GR line-up, the GR III, has an improved and even quicker auto-focus, and enhanced image stabilization. Its touch sensitive screen makes reviewing your shots quick and intuitive, and the new lens and image processor reproduces truer colors than the brand has been able to before.

Fujifilm X‑Pro3

Best for: Inclement weather

This is Souza’s favorite walk-about camera. It's a lightweight, unobtrusive, quiet option that produces great digital files. Souza, who photographed President Ronald Reagan and President Barack Obama throughout their terms, recommends planning your travel shots with this camera for the “first two hours of light in the morning, the last two hours of light in the evening, or when the weather is really bad (think fog, rain, or snow).”

Fujifilm Instax Square SQ6

Best for: Instant print-outs

Versions of the instant camera—this one is by Fujifilm—are back in a big way. This Instax ups the ante, with high image quality and a quick printing mechanism. A tip: Instant cameras tend to overexpose your picture, making it too bright, so take advantage of this one's exposure compensation feature to darken your image slightly. Whatever you do, just don’t shake the printed photo. It doesn’t help it develop faster and can lead to cracked film.

Olympus Tough TG-6

Best for: Beach or snorkeling trips

Pocket-friendly, light, and compact, this one is a stellar point-and-shoot option and great for underwater photography (it's waterproof up to 100 feet). If you tend to be rough on your cameras, here's some good news: The TG-6's design is shockproof, too. With plenty of auto options, this camera is for the traveler who wants to keep it simple, without sacrificing quality.

Best for: Safaris

Condé Nast Traveler contributing photographer Brian Finke loves the Nikon D850 for capturing personal travel and family moments. It features an easy-to-use 3.2-inch LCD touchscreen and shoots in 4K video. It’s also a great choice for animal lovers: Not only does its silent feature allow for up-close shooting near sound-sensitive animals, it also has one of the fastest shutter speeds on this list, so you can capture any sudden movement.

Ricoh Theta Z1 360 Camera

Best for: 360-degree shots

And now for something completely different: a 360-degree camera. Just press the central button on the super-light device once, without worrying about settings, and the Ricoh will take a shot in every direction. Besides 360-degree still photos, the camera also captures 360-degree videos and supports live-streaming. Be sure to grab a VR headset so you can enjoy your images in their full glory—it's an overdue modern alternative to the post-vacation family and friends slideshow presentation.

Packing List

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

The best travel cameras, including a Sony compact, Fujifilm, Insta260, and Canon camera.

The best travel cameras of 2023

No matter where your travels take you, these cameras will set you up for success in documenting every detail of the journey.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Choosing travel cameras for your trips can be an overwhelming prospect. You’re faced with a ton of great options, from advanced mirrorless systems to compacts and action cameras. It’s easy to get lost in the noise. Plus, when you consider features like video capabilities, screen type, and sensor size, it can be downright confusing. All of these features need to fit your photographic—and budgetary—needs. Knowing what you intend to use your captures for and what is most vital for you when traveling with a camera is the best place to start. These are the best travel cameras available, no matter what you are looking for.

Best overall: Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII
Best action camera: GoPro HERO11 Black
Best 360 camera: Insta360 X3
Best mirrorless: Fujifilm X -T5
Best mirrorless on a budget: Canon EOS R100
Best for video: Sony ZV-E1
Best for video on a budget: Sony ZV-1

How we picked the best travel cameras

The editors and writers at Popular Photography have decades of photography experience in just about every genre and have covered and reviewed just about every major camera on the market. When selecting the products in this list of best travel cameras, we looked at a wide range of important features in travel cameras. We researched the different camera choices available and compared specs and image and video quality. Size and weight, sensor size, autofocus abilities, battery life, and lens options were just some of the considerations. In addition, we noted any unique attributes or settings available on the cameras. We also aimed to choose offerings at different price points and cover the range of camera types from DSLR to compact. All of these considerations allowed us to compile a list of cameras suitable to various travel styles and capture needs.

The best travel cameras: Reviews & recommendations

While you certainly can use your smartphone to document your travels, there are lots of reasons to bring a dedicated camera along. Whether you’re looking for better image or video quality, a different perspective, or just don’t want the distraction of your phone, the best travel cameras will help you capture epic images to help you relive your trip down the line.

Resolution: 20.1 megapixels
Sensor size: 1-inch
Lens mount: N/A
Image stabilization: Digital and optical in the integrated lens
Memory card slots: Single Slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC
Weight: 10.65 ounces
Dimensions: 4 x 2.29 x 1.69 inches
Versatile 24-200mm zoom lens built into the camera
Fast autofocus with AF points covering nearly the entire field of view
Pricey for a compact

The newest iteration of the Sony RX100 is an excellent bridge between a compact camera and a DSLR or mirrorless option. Its pocket-ready size makes it easy to carry and pack, an important feature for a travel camera. The smooth finish on the camera body does make it a bit slippery, but a wrist strap can help with carrying.

Despite falling into the compact category , it has the option to use full manual mode (and other staples like aperture and shutter priority), allowing you to have complete control over your images. The 24-200mm equivalent lens covers both the wide-angle and telephoto sides of things, which is helpful for documenting a range of subjects on your travels. Plus, with a maximum aperture of f/2.8-4.5, you can still get nicely blurred backgrounds for drawing attention to your main subject. It’s also handy for shooting in low light if you don’t want to rely on the built-in pop-up flash.

The RX100 VII has 4K video recording with human and animal eye autofocus, which mimics Sony’s higher-end mirrorless models. The newly designed sensor and BIONZ X image processor allow for extremely fast autofocus, with 68% of the image area covered by AF points.

Resolution: 27 megapixels
Sensor size: 1/1.9-inch
Image stabilization: Digital
Memory card slots: Single microSD
Weight: 4.5 ounces
Dimensions: 2.8 x 2 x 1.3
Award-winning stabilization
Extremely compact
Waterproof without a case
Tons of mounting accessories
Still not the best in low light conditions
Limited controls

GoPro cameras have been synonymous with travel cameras for quite some time. That’s in part thanks to how rugged and compact they are. And now, the GoPro HERO 11 features the largest sensor of any GoPro yet. It can produce 27-megapixel stills, as well as 5.3k 60p video. And the expanded image sensor allows for more flexibility when zooming, cropping, changing digital lenses or adjusting the aspect ratio. You’ll be able to easily create vertical videos for social media platforms without losing most of your image.

GoPro’s HyperSmooth 5.0 image stabilization system is truly impressive, offering several modes depending on the activity in which you’re participating. It’s even burly enough to smooth out footage from high-impact activities like mountain biking or skiing. And it offers Horizon Lock to keep your footage level even as you move around.

GoPro also added new night effects to its latest action camera . That includes modes for documenting star trails, creating light painting photos, or capturing vehicle light trails. It still won’t perform as well in low light conditions as something like a mirrorless camera, but it has been improved compared to previous models.

If you want the latest GoPro, the recently released Hero 12 offers even longer run times and higher-quality HDR video.

Insta360 X3 action camera with a forest in the background

Abby Ferguson

Resolution: 48 megapixels
Sensor size: 1/2-inch
Image stabilization: Yes
Weight: 6.3 ounces
Dimensions: 4.5 x 1.8 x 1.3
Excellent stabilization
Unique 360-degree perspective
Lots of mounting options
High-quality video
App is a bit tricky to use

If you want something a bit unique for your travels, the Insta360 X3 action camera fits the bill. It records 360-degree video with its dual lenses so that you can show every direction for immersive content. The selfie stick is invisible in the footage, so you won’t have that distracting element in your shots. And it’s plenty rugged, with an IPX8 rating and waterproofing down to 33 feet without a case, making it an ideal travel camera for rugged adventures.

The X3 offers many different video and photo modes for extra versatility. It’s capable of 5.7K 24p 360-degree video, 4K 30p single-lens footage, 8K 360-degree timelapse, or ultra-wide 170-degree shots at 2.7K resolution. It can also create up to 72-megapixel photos, so you’ll be able to get high-quality stills as well. And thanks to its 6-axis gyroscope and FlowState Stabilization technology, your videos will be smooth and level no matter how adventurous your activity.

The camera pairs with the Insta360 app, which gives you lots of creative control. It provides lots of AI-powered features to simplify the process, or you can have full control. If working with 360-degree files, you can choose the direction the camera points, have it follow something, and so much more. The app is a little confusing to use, so takes some getting used to, but it offers nearly endless editing options.

To learn more about the Insta360 X3, read our full review .

Best mirrorless: Fujifilm X-T5

Stan Horaczek

Resolution: 40.2 megapixels
Sensor size: APS-C
Lens mount: Fujifilm X
Image stabilization: Sensor-Shift, 5-Axis
Memory card slots: Dual slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
Weight: 1.2 pounds
Dimensions: 5.1 x 3.6 x 2.5 inches
6.2K video at 30fps
In-body stabilization
Attractive in-camera film presets
Tactile camera controls
Solid weather sealing
Expensive for an APS-C camera
Rear screen only tilts

The newest version of Fujifilm’s X-T5 camera is an ideal choice for a hybrid shooter who wants to take both photographs and video on their trips. As an APS-C mirrorless camera , the body is relatively compact, which is ideal for a travel camera since it won’t take up much room in your bag. And it features Fujifilm’s typical retro styling, so it will look cool when you bust it out on your trips. Plus, there are lots of tactile dials on the top of the camera that keep you from digging in the camera menus, which is always ideal for staying in the moment.

The X-T5 offers 40.2 megapixels for detailed, high-quality photos. If that’s not enough, you can take advantage of Pixel Shift Multishot, which automatically takes 20 frames with a single press of the shutter to produce a 160-megapixel file. The electronic shutter goes up to 1/180,000 seconds, with 20 frames per second burst shooting to help you document fast action.

On the video side, it’s capable of 6.2K 30p video or oversampled 4K footage. The seven-stop in-body image stabilization system will help with achieving sharp photos even when shooting in low light. And it will help keep your videos smooth, even without a gimbal.

As with other Fujifilm cameras , it comes with lots of different film simulation modes. These can give your photos a more polished, unique look without needing to spend time editing, which is ideal when traveling.

To learn more about the X-T5, check out our full review .

Resolution: 24.1 megapixels
Sensor size: APS-C
Lens mount: Canon RF
Image stabilization: None
Memory card slots: Single slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC
Weight: 12.6 ounces
Dimensions: 4.6 x 3.4 x 2.7 inches
Budget-friendly
Very compact
Excellent image quality
4K video 24p video
Rear screen is fixed
No touchscreen functionality

Canon’s EOS R100 is an absolutely tiny camera, especially for one that offers interchangeable lens functionality. It is compatible with all RF lenses, as well as EF lenses if you get an adapter. The camera weighs a measly 12.6 ounces, making it the smallest Canon R line camera yet. It’s also very affordable.

Despite the small size and budget price, this camera has a lot to offer. It’s capable of cropped 4K 24p video, of you can record full HD at up to 60p. The autofocus system is very advanced for a budget camera, so you can trust that your images and videos will be in focus without much work on your end. The Eye Detection will even work when you are trying to get full body shots of a subject. Still images will also be high-quality thanks to the 24.1-megapixel sensor and excellent dynamic range.

The main downside to the camera is the rear screen. It is fixed, so you won’t be able to flip it around for selfies. And it isn’t a touch screen. But it offers lots of wireless connectivity options for transferring your files, so you don’t need to worry about sitting down to a computer to get images to share to social media while traveling.

Sony ZV-E1 full-frame mirrorless vlogging camera

Resolution: 12.9 megapixels
Sensor size: Full-frame
Lens mount: Sony E
Image stabilization: Digital, 5-Axis
Memory card slots: Single slot: SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)
Weight: 1.1 pounds
Dimensions: 4.8 x 2.8 x 2.1 inches
Impressive autofocus
Unlimited 4K recording
Lots of color control options
Single UHS-I card slot
Lower resolution sensor isn’t as ideal for stills

Sony’s ZV-E1 is a full-frame camera that is specifically built for vloggers . It is an interchangeable lens camera, unlike its more budget-friendly sibling mentioned below, meaning you can have more control over the look of your content thanks to the wide selection of lenses for Sony E mount. And, even though it’s a full-frame camera, it’s still very compact and lightweight, making it ideal for travel.

The ZV-E1 offers advanced and impressive autofocus. It can even track multiple people in a single frame, which is helpful if you are traveling with a group. It also offers focus breathing compensation, which is a change in focal length when adjusting the focusing distance. A bokeh switch allows for a custom level of bokeh, so you can fine-tune the style of your shots.

Perhaps most importantly, the video from the ZV-E1 is excellent. It’s capable of up to 4K 120p video or 240 fps with full HD resolution. And there are no recording limits, so you can record long cuts. It provides access to advanced color control, such as S-Cinetone, for natural-looking skin tones. You can also adjust the gamma, black level, knee, color level, and more. Or you can import and apply your LUTs in camera to save you editing time.

Resolution: 10.1 megapixels
Sensor size: One-inch
Weight: 10.4 ounces
Dimensions: 4.15 x 2.36 x 1.71 inches
Compact and lightweight
Excellent autofocus
Flip-out screen great for vlogging
Less than impressive battery life
24-70mm lens may not be wide enough for some

This is the first version of Sony’s entry-level vlogging camera, but it is still an excellent choice and will save you money over the latest iteration. To create this vlogger camera, Sony used much of the tech featured in the more expensive RX100 line, resulting in superb quality in a bit more stripped-down package. They also added a handgrip on the ZV-1, making it easier to hold. And, the screen flips to the side, making selfies easier to record even when you have accessories on the hot shoe.

Despite being a small point-and-shoot camera, you get 4K video and access to tons of AF points across the sensor. There is even a focus mode that allows you to easily shift focus from your face to elsewhere in the foreground, which is helpful for showing off your travel finds.

While the quality of the 24-70mm lens is solid, having something a little wider would have been ideal. If you do want a wider lens, the new ZV-1 II offers an 18-55mm equivalent lens. It also features a faster sensor and a new mic design. It will cost you a little over $100 more at the time of writing but may be worth it if you want that wide view for documenting travel.

Things to consider before buying the best travel cameras

When selecting the best travel cameras for your trips, there are a handful of things you should consider.

Your photography style

It is essential to consider what kind of traveler you are and how you intend to use the camera. For example, if you don’t mind traveling with heavy gear and want quality over anything else, your camera needs will differ from someone who likes to travel fast and light. Likewise, a backpacking trip through a jungle could call for a different camera than a luxury cruise. Deciding on what your priorities are first will help you narrow down all of the options available to you in a camera.

You’ll want to pay attention to both dimensions and weight in your setup. The amount of space that a camera takes up in your bag is significant when maximizing what you can bring along. Carrying a heavy camera around on your back while in between destinations or holding it for long periods while out and about gets old fast, so weight does make a difference. Even a few ounces can start to weigh you down on long treks.

You’ll want to choose a camera that offers features you’ll actually use but skips others that won’t be necessary. For example, if you want to take lots of selfies or group photos, a camera with a screen that flips around will be extremely helpful. Or, perhaps you would like to take lots of videos and share your travels. If so, paying attention to the video recording capabilities is a good idea.

Ruggedness and weather-sealing

Moisture and sand don’t play nicely with electronics. Hard falls can do even more damage. If you’re planning to take your camera out into the wilderness or other treacherous terrain, opt for a camera with robust weather sealing. Some cameras come with an IP (ingress protection) rating that will tell you exactly how much exposure to water, dust, and shocks they can withstand. Even if you’re not headed into the jungle, travel can take a toll on cameras, so ruggedness always comes in handy.

Image size and quality

Not every photo is destined to become a giant print. If you plan to use photos and videos solely for social media and to remember your trip, spending money on a camera with exceptional image quality and large files is unnecessary. However, if you want to make large prints of your images or produce high-quality films from video footage, you will want to invest in a camera with more megapixels and higher video resolution. Just remember, more pixels require more storage, so don’t skimp on those SD cards .

As with most purchasing decisions, cost is a significant factor. This is especially true with a travel camera, as you are likely putting an expensive piece of equipment at risk of getting broken, lost, or stolen, depending on how you use it. Finding a camera that isn’t pushing your budget to the max may be a good idea because of the risk. Insuring your equipment before trips is also recommended.

Q: Are mirrorless cameras better for travel?

Mirrorless cameras are often smaller than DSLRs because they can cut out all the space and weight required for the mirror mechanism. That also gives mirrorless cameras fewer moving parts, which means fewer things to break during your trip. As mentioned above, lighter and smaller cameras are ideal for travel, making mirrorless a frequently preferred option for travel cameras.

Q: Is GoPro good for travel photography?

GoPro cameras are excellent for travel for a few reasons. First, they are built to withstand extreme conditions, so you don’t have to baby them by any means. Second, they are tiny. You can easily throw one into your backpack or even a jacket pocket, making lightweight travel more possible. Lastly, they have excellent video capabilities and pretty solid still photo specs. However, they are limited in exposure control (among other things), and the ultra-wide-angle lens may not be ideal for all settings. There are tradeoffs, but overall it is an exceptional pick for travel.

Q: Can an iPhone 12 replace a DSLR?

The iPhone 12’s camera is impressive, no doubt. And as photographer Chase Jarvis once said, “the best camera is the one that’s with you.” Depending on your goals for your travel photography, the iPhone can absolutely replace a DSLR. However, if you want more control over your images or want higher-quality files, a dedicated camera, whether a DSLR or something else, will be the way to go.

Final thoughts on the best travel cameras

Choosing the best travel cameras will come down to your travel style (rugged adventures or luxury stays), documentation needs (stills or video), and how much control you want with your camera. For most users, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII is a well-rounded option that meets a variety of needs. In addition, it offers more quality and features than a phone would, making it a worthwhile upgrade.

Why trust us

PopPhoto has a long history of delivering the opinions of some of the sharpest and most prolific camera dorks the world has to offer. Since 1937, we’ve been reviewing cameras, providing wisdom from well-known photographers, and generally just nerding out about all that goes into making great pictures. Our current crop of writers and editors have decades of professional photography and camera writing experience among them. Collectively, we’ve probably shot with just about every camera and lens combo you can imagine—as well as some obscure stuff you may not even know about. Remember the Casio Tryx folding camera? PopPhoto does.

We also get that buying a camera is a big decision, which is why we’re dedicated to helping folks choose the right one (or, in our case “ones”) for their needs. Case in point: Handing over top dollar for an expensive rig may leave you unsatisfied if it doesn’t fit your preferred shooting style. Sure, a $6,000 sports-oriented DSLR can capture landscapes, but do you really need to do it at 30 frames-per-second? No, you don’t.

Abby Ferguson is the Associate Editor for Gear and Reviews at PopPhoto, joining the team in 2022. She has been involved with the photography industry in various capacities since her undergraduate training at the University of Kentucky, with work ranging from client photography to program development and management of the photo department at Evolve, a vacation rental company.

Want more photography techniques, camera reviews, and inspiration?

National Geographic content straight to your inbox—sign up for our popular newsletters here

The 10 best compact cameras, according to National Geographic

From budget-friendly point-and-shoots to high-tech wonders designed for wildlife photography, check out these recommendations from our photo engineering team.

Studio photograph of a collection of cameras for the National Geographic 2023 travel camera guide

Things may still be far from “normal,” but our desire for adventure remains the same. Whether it’s spotting a rare bird in your local park or exploring an ancient wonder in a far-flung destination, technology has made it easier than ever to capture and preserve precious moments.

A powerful travel image not only has the ability to tell a story but also reminds us of the extraordinary beauty the world offers. “As a biologist and conservation photographer, I’m always amazed by the diversity of life on the planet,” says Jen Guyton, photojournalist and National Geographic Explorer . “Traveling to see and photograph nature’s riches allows me to learn new things and appreciate the abundance of this planet.”

With that in mind, we tapped the photo engineering team at National Geographic for which compact cameras they recommend—and why. They design and build custom equipment for professional photographers and test consumer products for this annual guide. Here are their picks for travel:

Fujifilm X-T5

The XT series from Fujifilm—often our top pick—has had a major revamp this year with the XT-5. It can go toe-to-toe with professional full-frame mirrorless models and DSLRs in performance, autofocus, image quality, and handling. While the X-T5 has gotten a little smaller than the X-T4, it gained the fantastic 40 megapixel (MP) sensor from the X-H2, one of the most detailed APS-C sensors on the market, which makes it—in the authors’ opinions—the reigning champion of 2023 travel cameras.

One of the most impressive things about the X-T series is that it provides an enjoyable shooting experience for amateurs and pros by blending vintage dials with modern, professional-grade controls, weather sealing, and ports for video or still photography. For more: Fujifilm

Ricoh GR III and GR IIIx

Studio photograph of the Ricoh GR III camera, made for the 2023 National Geographic 2023 travel camera guide

The GRIII packs some serious photographic power into a pocketable size. It has a stabilized 24 MP APS-C sensor, dual-type autofocus, a responsive touch screen, and an easy-to-navigate menu system. It’s suits for casual point-and-shoot photography, or more controlled manual shooting. If you find the 28mm f/2.8 effective focal length too wide, the GR IIIx, released in 2021, is identical to the GR III in every way except for its lens, which is a slightly tighter 40mm f/2.8 equivalent lens. For more: Ricoh

Tip : The camera’s battery does not have a high capacity, but the built-in USB-C port makes it simple to top off the battery with a phone charger.

Fujifilm X100V

Studio photograph of Sony RX100VII camera, made for the 2023 National Geographic 2023 travel camera guide

When it was first released in 2011, the original X100 rocked the digital camera industry, revitalizing this legendary camera film brand and bringing retro styling to the forefront of camera design.

The latest, the X100V, brings a few significant changes. The lens has the same value (35mm f/2 equivalent), but the new design significantly increases sharpness corner to corner, both for wide-open and close-up images.

The camera’s body design adds nearly full weather sealing, a flip-out screen, and a slightly changed grip, as well as improvements to the control layouts (including a control stick). Fujifilm cameras produce the best JPEGs in the industry, with amazing film simulations; cameras in the X100 line are often the backup of choice for photojournalists. This one has a leaf shutter that can sync to high speeds with a strobe and a built-in neutral-density (ND) filter for combatting bright sunlight. For more: Fujifilm

Tip : When photographing with the Fujifilm X100 always pack a hot shoe thumb rest, a lens hood, and a wrist strap. These allow you to ditch the camera bag and lens cap.

Sony RX100VII

Despite being more than three years old, the seventh-generation RX100 line remains as one of the most versatile ultra-compact cameras. This version comes with real-time autofocus from Sony’s pro line, giving photographers highly reliable eye/face autofocus that now works with animals. No other camera in this size has autofocus or shoot speeds close to this little wonder. Plus, it shoots electronically with almost no distortion of moving subjects.

( These photos from the Nat Geo archives capture extraordinary moments in time .)

This means silent shooting and high shutter speeds for working in bright light. The RX100VII sports a 24-200mm equivalent zoom lens that, while not as bright as we would like, covers a wide range for the traveler. Tom regularly describes this camera line as his “desert island” choice. Does it command a high price for such a small camera? Yes, but it delivers outstanding performance. For more: Sony

Leica Q2 and Q2 Monochrom

Studio photograph of the Leica Q2 camera, made for the 2023 National Geographic 2023 travel camera guide

Though expensive, the venerable Q series cameras are wonderful to use. The Q series comprises These full-frame, fixed-lens cameras with full-frame, fixed-lens cameras with a 28mm f/1.7 lens providing built-in stabilization. Since the first-generation Q and Q-P have been discontinued, we recommend the modern Q2 and Q2 Monochrom, which both have a 47.5 MP sensor, a larger battery, and full weather sealing.

The Q2 Monochrom is nearly identical to the Q2, except that it shoots only in black and white and has a sleek black paint job. Removing the color filter stack (or Bayer array) makes for astounding black-and-white images; it also increases sharpness and high ISO performance because more light reaches the pixels. If you prefer color, the Q2 will be more to your liking. For more: Leica

OM System OM-1

The OM System (aka Olympus cameras) just released the flagship OM-1 camera, a major upgrade from the beloved Olympus E-M1 series.

The OM-1 has a similar layout to the E-M1 series but it packs a super fast stacked sensor for high-speed stills shooting at up to 10 FPS mechanical and a blazing 120 FPS electronic. An updated sensor brings better low light performance and subject detection autofocus algorithms that can detect cars, planes, animals, and humans.

This model also has hand-held high-res shooting (you can take 50 MP images out of a burst of 16 frames) and the Live-ND filter, which simulates a neutral-density filter. In addition, computational photography for handheld shooting emulates some tripod-based long exposure shooting (for example, a blurred waterfall). The pro line lenses have a high-quality build, integrated lens hoods, smooth zoom and focus rings, and round bokeh visualization (background blur).

The OM-1’s lens options make it ideal for birders and wildlife watchers. The new 150-400mm F4.5 TC1.25x IS PRO gives you a lightweight 300-800mm range and an integrated teleconverter up to 1000mm handheld. Tom tested this lens/camera combo and had a blast photographing birds in his neighborhood without his arms getting too tired. For more: OM Systems

Tip : The best lenses include the Olympus 12-100mm F/4 IS PRO (24-200mm), 12-24mm f/2.8 II PRO (24-80mm f/2.8 equivalent), 40-150mm F/2.8 PRO (80-300mm pro zoom), 7-14mm PRO (wide-angle zoom), 300mm F/4 IS PRO (600mm F4 equivalent), 150-400mm F4.5 TC1.25x IS PRO (300-800mm f/4.5).

Fujifilm X-S10

With an internally stabilized 26 megapixel APS-C sensor, the X-S10 features impressive ergonomics despite its smaller size. It also has contemporary unmarked command dials and a mode selector, compared to the retro style used on other Fujifilm bodies.

What do you give up for the affordability and compact size? It has a smaller battery, a single card slot, a smaller viewfinder, no weather sealing, and a slightly lower top shutter speed. But these are all fair trades in our book. For more: Fujifilm

Tip : Thanks to its ergonomic grip, this camera pairs well with an all-around zoom lens. The Fujifilm XF18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 R LM OIS WR makes the perfect single lens travel kit.

Nikon Z30

Nikon’s new Z30 is the third version in the company’s Z-mount APS-C lineup. Its compact size sets it apart. That’s thanks in part to not having an electronic viewfinder or a 30-minute recording limit, plus a vari-angle (or “tilty-flippy,” if you prefer) screen.

Although it’s considered an entry-level camera, the Z30 is capable of 4K 30p recording without a crop, which cannot be said of its bigger, full-frame brother, the Z5. Its stills credentials are impressive as well, with the same amazing low-light performance, an 11fps mechanical shutter with AF tracking, strong AF performance, and the option to save images as high-quality raw files.

More importantly, it’s light, easy to carry around all day, and just plain fun to shoot with. It’s a perfect match for Nikon’s compact DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR, which makes for an excellent setup to document your adventures. For more: Nikon

Tip : If range is more of a concern than camera size, consider adding the Nikkor Z DX 50-250mm f/4.5-6.3 VR to your camera bag. At effectively 375mm on the long end, with five stabilization stops, you’ll have no trouble capturing brilliant images of distant subjects.

Canon EOS R7

The R7 is among Canon’s first APS-C RF mount cameras (announced in May of 2022 alongside the trimmed down R10). The largest camera on this list justifies its size with impressive features, including one of the best APS-C sensors on the market (X-T5 has the crown now) at 32 megapixels.

Additional features include an in-body stabilization that can auto-level your horizons, a 15fps mechanical shutter (and a blistering 30fps electronic), two UHS-II card slots, and a comfortable ergonomic grip that houses the same LP-E6NH batteries used by its full-framed siblings, giving it a very dependable battery life.

We’ve also been impressed by its auto-focus on objects—using the same deep learning algorithms as the R3—but the face and eye detection performance leaves something to be desired. Its weather sealing means you can feel comfortable taking it just about anywhere, making it a solid action and adventuring companion. For more: Canon

Tip : Pair this powerhouse body with a good lens. We recommend purchasing a Canon EF-RF mount adapter so that you can take advantage of the countless affordable used EF DSLR lenses on the market.

Studio photograph of the Sony a7C camera, made for the 2023 National Geographic 2023 travel camera guide

The a7C lost out last year to the Canon RP (the first full-frame, interchangeable lens camera to make our list). But the a7C offers some noteworthy features. It’s remarkably compact for a full-frame camera.

Our research suggests this camera body has the smallest full-frame, interchangeable lens with a mechanical shutter or stacked sensor on the market. This is an important distinction because there are smaller full-frame cameras, but they either have a fixed lens or do not possess a shutter/fast read out sensor. As a result, photographing moving subjects is impaired.

Despite its small size, the a7C comes loaded with Sony’s quick and dependable real-time autofocus system. Pair this camera with one of the ultra-small prime lenses from Sony, such as the Sony 24mm f/2.5, 35mm f/2.8, 40mm f/2.5, or 50mm f/2.5. Doing so will give you a wonderfully compact travel camera that keeps a full frame sensor in your hands. For more: Sony

7 video cameras we love for every kind of traveler

The Masterclasses 2023: 10 practical tips to help you succeed as a travel photographer

For hungry minds.

How I got the shot: Ben Pipe on coming face to face with a lion

The 9 best digital cameras for travelers, according to National Geographic

How I got the shot: Jonathan Stokes on distilling Marseille's past, present and future

How I got the shot: Richard James Taylor on capturing Mekong sunset magic in Laos

How I got the shot: Richard James Taylor on capturing Dubrovnik's golden hour

Environment
Paid Content
Photography
Perpetual Planet

History & Culture

History & Culture
History Magazine
Mind, Body, Wonder
Terms of Use
Privacy Policy
Your US State Privacy Rights
Children's Online Privacy Policy
Interest-Based Ads
About Nielsen Measurement
Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
Nat Geo Home
Attend a Live Event
Book a Trip
Inspire Your Kids
Shop Nat Geo
Visit the D.C. Museum
Learn About Our Impact
Support Our Mission
Advertise With Us
Customer Service
Renew Subscription
Manage Your Subscription
Work at Nat Geo
Sign Up for Our Newsletters
Contribute to Protect the Planet

Panasonic Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 review

The most advanced travel zoom camera you can buy right now.

TechRadar Verdict

If you're looking for a brilliant all-in-one travel compact camera that offers a excellent zoom range and great image quality, this is it.

15x optical zoom range

Large 1.0-inch sensor

Touchscreen control

4K video and photo modes

Built-in EVF

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity

Manual control

EVF still feels pretty cramped

Image smoothing at high ISOs

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

The Essential Review

This is TechRadar’s review summary that gives you all the key information you need if you’re looking for quick buying advice in 30 seconds – our usual full, in-depth review follows.

What separates the Panasonic Lumix ZS200 (known as the Lumix TZ200 outside of the US, except in Australia where it's called the Lumix TZ220) from other travel zoom compacts that cost half the price is the sensor at the heart of the camera.

One of the best cameras for beginners , this is a 1.0-inch sensor with a resolution of 20.1MP, and that surface area is about four times the size of the sensors in most other travel zoom compacts. This means image quality is much better, with much greater detail.

It's not the first time we've seen a 1.0-inch sensor in a travel zoom compact – that accolade goes to the Lumix ZS100 / TZ100, but whereas that camera sported a pretty modest (for a travel zoom camera) 10x zoom range, the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 sees Panasonic squeeze a 15x zoom into a similar sized body. The 24-360mm range makes the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 incredibly versatile, suited to capturing everything from sweeping vistas to tightly cropped details.

There's a large 3.0-inch touchscreen on the rear of the camera (although it sits flush with the body and can't be angled outwards), while the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 follows on from the Lumix ZS100 / TZ100 and sports a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF); this gets a small bump up in resolution over its predecessor, but it still feels pretty small and claustrophobic to look through, so while it's handy for composing shots in bright sunlight, the rest of the time you'll find yourself using the excellent rear display.

For hassle-free photography there's a range of auto modes and features, but the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 also features more advanced controls too, including aperture priority and shutter priority modes, as well as full manual control. There's also raw capture to help achieve the best quality results from your images, while the handy control wheel round the lens offers quick adjustment for a range of settings.

If you want to capture videos on your travels the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 features 4K capture up to 30p, while Panasonic's 4K PHOTO mode lets users extract single still frames from 4K burst files shot at 30fps before saving them as 8MP-equivalent images.

It's the most expensive compact camera out there right now, but there's no other camera out there that offers a 15x optical zoom and 1.0-inch sensor in a compact body, making it one of the best travel cameras you can buy right now.

Who’s it for and should I buy it?

The Panasonic Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 is a great option if you're looking for a compact all-in-one camera that you can take on your travels. The large 1.0-inch sensor delivers great results, while the 15x zoom range means you should be able to shoot anything from landscapes and architecture to tight portraits and details.

It's easy to use, but there are also plenty of manual controls should you want to get a bit more creative, while the compact metal body shouldn't weigh you down.

If the 15x zoom isn't quite the deal-breaker, then take a look at the older Lumix ZS100 / TZ100. It delivers similar image quality, the 10x zoom still offers plenty of versatility and it's that bit more affordable. But if you want the ultimate travel compact camera, the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 ticks pretty much every box.

Panasonic Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 price

Current price: £729 / $799.99 / AU$1,199

The Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 is unique among travel compacts

Light Speed AF delivers snappy focusing
15x optical zoom is incredibly versatile
Electronic viewfinder is a nice addition

Sensor: 1.0-inch, 20.1MP

Lens: 24-360mm, f/3.3-6.4

Screen: 3.0-inch, 1,240K dots

Viewfinder: EVF

Continuous shooting: 10fps

Battery life: 350 shots

User level: Beginner/intermediate

While Panasonic managed to squeeze a 10x optical zoom into the Lumix ZS100 / TZ100, with a range of 25-250mm and a maximum available aperture of f/2.8-5.9, the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 incorporates a 15x optical zoom with a coverage of 24-360mm and a maximum aperture of f/3.3-6.4; a touch wider at the start of the zoom range then (although with a slightly narrower/slower maximum aperture), but noticeably more reach at the long end. The new lens design also enables the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 to focus down to 3cm to enable the capture of close-up macro shots.

With such a large 15x zoom comes the risk of camera shake ruining shots, so Panasonic's Power OIS stabilization system is on hand to counteract unwanted movement for stills photography, and there's five-axis hybrid OIS stabilization for video.

Click here to see the full-size image

What made the Lumix ZS100 / TZ100 unique among travel zoom compacts was its relatively large 1.0-inch sensor , and the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 features a similar 20.1MP 1-inch sensor offering an ISO range from 125-12,800 (expandable to 80-25,600).

The Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 boasts Panasonic's Light Speed AF technology, and we found focus speeds to be pretty snappy throughout the zoom range in good light; the AF system will struggle when light levels are really poor, but this isn't unique to the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200. The camera isn't really suited to fast-paced action, but the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200's focus tracking will do a solid job for general subjects.

These improvements to the EVF make framing shots in bright light that much easier, but it's still pretty cramped, and you'll be better served using the rear display in most situations

As well as a rear 3.0-inch touchscreen display, which has a decent resolution of 1,240,000 dots, there's also a small built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF) on the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200.

Compared to the EVF found on the Lumix ZS100 / TZ100, the newer model gets a decent boost in resolution, from 1.17m dots to an impressive 2.3m. It's also a little larger at 0.21 inches (compared to 0.2 inches on the older model), and offers slightly better magnification, at 0.53x compared to 0.45x.

These improvements make framing shots in bright ambient light that much easier, but it's still pretty cramped, and you'll be better served using the rear display in most shooting situations.

The battery in the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 / TZ220 is rated for 350 shots, or 300 if you use the EVF. The camera also features a new eco30fps mode, which reduces the Live View refresh rate and which should see the camera good for around 370 shots (if you're using the rear LCD) per charge. The battery can be charged via AC or USB, although if you're not going to be near a power supply for a while, you might want to invest in a second battery.

Finally, there's a Bluetooth Low Energy connection to enable a consistent connection with a smartphone or tablet with minimum power consumption, alongside the usual Wi-Fi connectivity, which allows for quick transfer of images.

Sleek design is a subtle improvement on predecessor

Both auto and manual controls
Solid metal construction
Weighs 340g

Despite the extra reach of its lens over the Lumix ZS100 / TZ100, the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 is hardly any bigger. In fact, it's only 1mm wider at 112mm, 1mm thicker at 45mm and 2mm taller at 66mm; that's pretty impressive considering the 15x zoom and 1-inch sensor it packs into its body.

While it's probably a bit too big to slip into a jeans pocket comfortably (although you could probably cram it in at a push), it'll hardly take up any space in a day bag, while the smooth metal exterior finish gives it a premium and durable feel.

A welcome addition over its predecessor is the addition of a modest textured grip on the front of the camera

The sleek design follows on from the Lumix ZS100 / TZ100, but a welcome addition over that camera is a slightly textured grip on the front of the camera to give you a bit more of a reassuring hold – we still reckon the supplied wrist strap is worth using for the extra security though.

The controls on the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 are pretty straightforward, and are grouped in such a way that you can use the camera one-handed if you wish. There's a dedicated mode dial on the top (there are a selection of automated modes, along with more advanced program, aperture priority, shutter priority and manual options), and there's an additional dial that offers control over different functions depending on the shooting mode you're in; if you're working in aperture priority mode, for example, you can use it to alter the aperture, while it can also be used for toggling exposure compensation .

The controls on the rear of the camera are clearly marked, while the Fn3 button provides access the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200's quick menu, enabling you to adjust common settings such as ISO, metering and white balance without the need to dive into the main menu. The speed of adjustment is helped by the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200's touchscreen interface, as you can tap your desired setting on-screen rather than having to physically select it.

The control ring around the lens facilitates quick adjustments to a variety of settings, depending on the mode you're in. For instance, if you're in aperture priority mode its default setting is to control the lens aperture. If you prefer, though, you can set it to control other settings, including zoom, exposure compensation and white balance.

Image quality

Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 delivers nicely detailed images
Good dynamic range
ISO125-12,800 (expandable to 80-25,600)

As we've seen with other cameras that feature a 20.1MP 1.0-inch sensor, the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 is capable of delivering nicely detailed shots which have a natural, yet bright and vibrant look; if you're going to be printing images at A4 or below these certainly stand up very well compared to cameras that enjoy larger sensors.

When it comes to image noise (the grain-like effect that encroaches on images as you increase the ISO ), the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 performs very well for a travel zoom compact. At lower sensitivities images (both JPEG and raw) handle noise well, but inevitably the quality of JPEGs in particular suffers as you boost the ISO.

If you're shooting JPEGs, be prepared for images to display signs of detail smoothing as the camera tries to reduce the effects of noise. Raw files are a lot more pleasing at higher sensitivities – while image noise is present, more detail is retained, and you'll ultimately get a better result if you're prepared to process your images once you're back home.

If you're traveling, chances are you're going to be shooting in some pretty high-contrast conditions (bright sunlight and shade for example). This can cause cameras to struggle, either producing images that are too dark or too light, as the sensor doesn't have the dynamic range to cope with the wide tonal range.

While it's possible to recover some lost detail with JPEG files, the ability to capture raw files with the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 means that at lower ISOs you can claw back a good deal of detail in the shadows for a much more pleasing final image; try and avoid shooting at higher ISOs if you intend to do this, though, as you don't get quite the same flexibility.

Lens performance is good considering that Panasonic has managed to squeeze a 15x optic into such a compact body. Sharpness does suffer a little at the long end of the range, but vignetting and distortions are well controlled at the wider end.

Not convinced? Try these...

If the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 isn’t for you, we’ve picked three excellent alternatives for you to consider.

Panasonic Lumix ZS100 / TZ100

Like the idea of a 1-inch-sensor travel zoom compact but can't stretch to the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200? The Lumix ZS100 (known as the TZ100 outside the US) is a great option despite being superseded by the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200. The 10x optical zoom isn't quite as broad but it still offers a decent reach, while image quality is very good.

Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix ZS100 / TZ100 review

Sony Cyber-shot RX100 V

While not offering anywhere near the zoom range of the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200, the RX100 V is still one of our favorite compact cameras. The zoom range is modest, but it has a fast maximum aperture of f/1.8-2.8, while the performance and AF are excellent. There's also a brilliant pop-up EVF. Pricey but brilliant.

Read our in-depth Sony Cyber-shot RX100 V review

Panasonic Lumix FZ2000 / FZ2500

Like the idea of an all-in-one camera, but want a bigger zoom? While there are plenty of other compacts out there that offer this, they have smaller sensors. The Panasonic Lumix FZ2000 (known as the FZ2500 in the US) is a bridge compact, so it's slightly chunkier proposition, but it uses a similar 1-inch sensor to the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200, and offers a bigger and faster zoom that tops out at 480mm.

Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix FZ2000 / FZ2500 review

Best travel camera 2020: 10 vacation-friendly models for your next holiday

Phil Hall is an experienced writer and editor having worked on some of the largest photography magazines in the UK, and now edit the photography channel of TechRadar, the UK's biggest tech website and one of the largest in the world. He has also worked on numerous commercial projects, including working with manufacturers like Nikon and Fujifilm on bespoke printed and online camera guides, as well as writing technique blogs and copy for the John Lewis Technology guide.

WhatsApp encryption isn't the problem, metadata is

Tiny SSD vendor promises to solve huge iPhone storage problem — Vinpower's PSSD can back up an iPad at 800MB/s and boost Apple's phone storage by more than 8TB, making it a must for iOS creatives

Borussia Dortmund vs Real Madrid live stream: How to watch Champions League final online

Most Popular

Review: The best travel camera for every type of photographer

UPDATE: Aug. 8, 2023, 5:00 AM EDT This guide has been updated to reflect Mashable's latest hands-on testing.

We live in an age of over-sharing, but the best travel cameras do so much more than help you post your adventures on Instagram, Youtube, or TikTok. Travel cameras can also help you freeze moments in time so that you never forget your favorite travel experiences. Travel photography can be a great way to capture pictures of your loved ones at their happiest, and you may look back on these photos decades in the future.

Of course, the best travel camera should also be used to show off your adventures on social media — we never said over-sharing was bad.

The best cameras for travel make it easy to take pictures without overstuffing your suitcase. While there are plenty of accessories for travel photography , modern travel cameras are lightweight, compact, and user-friendly.

As anyone who's had to sit on their suitcase to close it would know, you need to save every square inch you can when packing. You should always make sure you have the essentials , but nobody wants to have to throw things away at the airport gate because their bag is overweight .

Unless you're a professional YouTuber or National Geographic photographer, chances are you don't want to lug around a heavy-duty model, or a mirrorless camera that requires five different lens for each subject. Similarly, if you're not part of a camera crew traveling for work, a fragile camera that requires careful packing and gentle handling probably isn't worth the trouble.

Fortunately for you, Mashable is on the case, and we’ve been busy researching, testing, and reviewing travel cameras. When picking the best travel camera for every type of photographer — whether you’re a beginner, photography expert, action-adventurer, or content creator — we looked for easy-to-use and easy-to-pack cameras that won’t get in your way.

Should you bring a travel camera at all?

If you clicked on this article, you're likely planning to. But take a minute to consider your phone camera — if you have a new smartphone, it probably comes equipped with a camera that has formidable photography abilities of its own. In fact, the newest flagship smartphones have some downright futuristic photography capabilities. We're not even impressed by the iPhone's ability to shoot in 4K anymore. Give us advanced lowlight photography from Pixel phones, the Samsung Galaxy's famous ultra-zoom lens, or the Xiaomi smartphone with Leica cameras.

So, if you already have the latest iPhone , Samsung Galaxy , or Xiaomi model , is there any reason to carry an extra camera instead of just snapping pics with that?

Well, it depends. For skilled photographers, even the best smartphone cameras can't compare to a mirrorless camera from Sony or Leica . For everyone else, there are still lots of reasons to upgrade to the best travel cameras.

Are you going somewhere beachy and want to take cool underwater photos without worrying about water damage? Is this a ski trip or something active that requires image stabilization and 4K HDR video? Or would you just rather keep your phone safe in your bag at all times, so that you don't accidentally drop it while taking pictures? For all of the above, the best camera for travel will outperform your smartphone camera.

Whatever the reason (even if it's just better quality pics for the 'gram), if you want to pack the best camera for travel, you should evaluate your options based on the following:

Technical Considerations:

Size/Weight: There's no point to investing in a professional model that doesn't fit in your travel bag. Make sure that your choice isn't so hefty that you don't end up leave your camera and lens at home.
Image Quality: Anyone can snap a blurry picture of the Eiffel Tower, but you want a crystal-clear and totally unique photo to remember your trip. A camera's sensor size will be the biggest factor on overall image quality (more on this below).
Zoom Range: Despite massive advances in smartphone camera technology, this is still one area in which most smartphones fall short. For close-up photography, you'll need cameras equipped with zoom lenses.
Shooting Modes: Versatility is one of the other perks of toting around a camera — from drones that will give you aerial shots to vlogging cameras for video quality, different devices offer different advantages over your standard phone cam.
Price: Above all, don't purchase anything beyond your means. For this guide, we've avoided $5,000 Lecia cameras, as these can be risky to travel with unless you're a professional photographer.

What's the difference between DSLR and mirrorless cameras?

When searching for the best travel cameras of 2023, we wanted to include the most common types of travel cameras: mirrorless cameras, DSLR cameras, action cameras, and drones. (We also decided to include a smartphone for good measure.) But what type of camera is best for your needs? Action cameras, drones, and smartphones are pretty self-explanatory, so what's the difference between DSLR and mirrorless cameras? And what camera is best for travel photography?

For a long time, DSLR cameras were the gold standard for high-quality digital cameras. They provide professional-level photo quality and more advanced features for experienced photographers. DSLR stands for digital single-lens reflex camera. In this type of camera, light passing through the lens bounces off a mirror into a traditional viewfinder. Even the best DSLR camera for travel will be larger in size compared to point-and-shoot and mirrorless cameras, and this can be an issue when traveling.

Mirrorless cameras don't have a mirror, and thus lack a traditional viewfinder (although they typically have a digital viewfinder). For this reason, mirrorless cameras are lighter and more compact than DSLR cameras, which also make them more travel-friendly. Because of the digital viewfinder, mirrorless cameras often have a shorter battery life compared to a DSLR.

You can take equally great images with both a mirrorless and DSLR camera. Because mirrorless cameras are newer (and more trendy), many of the best new cameras fall into this category. However, DSLR cameras are often much more affordable.

The specs to look for in the best travel cameras:

To pick the best camera for travel, you'll need a basic understanding of some photography terms and camera specifications. You could spend a lifetime mastering the art or photography, but before buying a camera, take the time to familiarize yourself with the following terms.

Megapixels: The unit itself (MP) denotes one million ("mega-") pixels, which essentially describes the detail of your photos. You can have too many megapixels, depending on your purpose — Instagram, for example, automatically downsizes overlarge images to 1.2MP.

Image File Format: This refers to the image formats supported by the camera. Typically, this includes .jpeg and raw image files. A camera with easy-to-access image files is an underrated feature. This can be important if you're traveling for a long time and want to be able to access your pictures externally from your camera ASAP. Make sure you can open and, if necessary, edit photos on your laptop or even phone (an adapter or external card reader will usually be needed as well).

Sensor: A camera's sensor has a huge impact on overall image quality, which is why sensor size is the main specification professional photographers look at. Bigger sensors have more pixels, which means better low-light and dynamic performance as well as reduced noise. However, smaller sensors have a better zoom range and are both lighter and cheaper. DSLR and mirrorless cameras usually have full-frame (~36mm wide) or APS-C (22.3-23.6mm wide) sensors, while compact cameras have 1-inch (13.2mm wide) sensors. The iPhone 11 has a 1/2.55" sensor, for comparison, and that will give you 12MP images. For a more detailed guide to sensor sizes, check out this graphic .

Lens: Pro photographers will rattle off details about the makers and materials of camera lenses, but what you really need to know is mostly just aperture and focal length. So while names like the "Nikon AF-S 24-70mm f/2.8 E ED VR" look intimidating, they really just boil down to naming conventions that list brand, lens type/size, focal length, maximum aperture, and miscellaneous details ("VR" here stands for vibration reduction) in that order.

Focal length denotes zoom, and aperture is how much light the lens lets in, which affects exposure and depth of field. Zoom is fairly straightforward — some lens have ranges, while others have a fixed focal length, so you'll have to move to get your subject in frame. Aperture, on the other hand, is measured in fractions. A smaller aperture, say of f/11, gives you less background blur (like, the opposite of portrait mode), aka more depth of field, and a darker image. Larger apertures — f/2.8 is pretty standard — will give you a very focused effect with lots of light.

Continuous Shooting Speed (Video Mode): Measured in fps — that is, frames per second — this number is what you look at if you need your camera to be capable of quick shots for action scenes. The higher the frame-rate, the smoother and clearer the action.

Max Video Resolution: This one is mostly for those people who want to edit a highlight reel of their travels, or vlog their trip. Otherwise, typical 1080p will do just fine for most purposes — you don't need to splurge on 4k unless you want to crop footage while retaining the quality (and you really don't need 8k unless you're a filmmaker).

While this sounds overwhelming (and it definitely can be, to be honest), if you aren't fussed about specs, our list below gives a quick breakdown of what each camera is good for, taking into consideration all its features. On the other hand, if you have a very specific lens type in mind or just want to fully understand your purchase before committing, take a look at the listed specs and how they compare.

With all this in mind, we've gathered the best cameras for travel below. Our top recommendations were hands-on tested by the Mashable team, and we've included some additional options so that you can find the best travel camera for your particular needs.

This guide is geared more toward photography beginners than pros, so we've favored cameras that are more affordable and beginner friendly. And to make sure they travel well, we've prioritized cameras that are durable, lightweight, and compact.

Recommended For You

Trending on Mashable

Endeavor Wraps Up MatchCAP Asia 2024 With Record-Breaking Success

How-To Geek

The best dslr cameras of 2024.

DSLR cameras offer uncompromising quality to the discerning photographer who seeks more creative control.

While mirrorless cameras are constantly being innovated, there are still plenty of reasons to choose a DSLR cameras. From premium to affordable entry-level models, there’s a DSLR for everyone.

Canon EOS Rebel T8i

Nikon d3500, what to look for when choosing a quality dslr camera.

Mirrorless cameras may be taking over the market, but DSLRs still have plenty to offer. There are many reasons to choose a DSLR camera over a mirrorless one, including more robust designs and better battery life.

But you need to consider your skill level before anything else. If you’re a beginner, you should ask yourself if it’s a good choice to splash out several thousand dollars on a professional-grade camera or if it’s better to learn the basics on an entry-level model. You can spend as much or as little as you like on a DSLR, from just a few hundred dollars for a beginner model to four-figure investments on mid and premium-range options.

You also need to ask yourself if you will be leaning more toward still photography or videography. For the latter, it may be better to consider a mirrorless camera . A DSLR is an excellent option for the former or even a balance of the two.

There are some specifications you need to look out for before choosing. The image sensor is essential. Entry-level APS-C sensors provide good image quality at affordable prices but come with a crop factor . Higher-resolution sensors provide better detail, especially if you want to print larger than standard photo-sized prints. Full-frame sensors offer better depth of field and low-light performance. They are better choices for video, too, but are generally more expensive.

A good autofocus (AF) system is also crucial . Professionals need advanced phase detection with many focus points (often 51 to 100+) for better focusing and subject tracking. Entry-level DSLRs have simpler phase detection systems with fewer focus points (generally around 9 to 39) and less sophisticated tracking. But this makes the cameras less expensive and more user-friendly.

Burst shooting works hand-in-hand with the autofocus, with beginner DSLRs typically offering around 5FPS (the number of frames it can shoot per second). This rate is plenty for the casual shooter, but if you want to freeze fast-paced action, such as a split-second moment in time during a sports game, then you need something with a high burst rate. 8FPS is typically considered to have a high burst rate and is usually fast enough for enthusiasts. Some pro-grade DSLRs go much higher, but then so do their costs.

How-To Geek's product recommendations come from the same team of experts that have helped people fix their gadgets over one billion times. We only recommend the best products based on our research and expertise. We never accept payment to endorse or review a product. Read More »

Best DSLR Camera Overall: Nikon D850

The Nikon D850 is still the go-to choice for a DSLR camera for amateur enthusiasts and professional shooters alike. It has been around for a while, but its devoted following in the DSLR community hasn’t waned. The fact that it has won several top awards solidifies its position as a leading choice even after all these years.

It has come down in price in recent times, and while some pricier DSLRs are out there, such as the legendary Canon EOS-1D X Mark III or the Nikon D6 , it is still a premium model. And make no mistake, this camera is big, robust, and weather-sealed. With its excellent battery life, it’s ready to go to the extreme.

Its 45.7MP BSI CMOS sensor delivers exceptionally sharp images. Even as the light dims and the ISO increases, the detail remains well-defined. This detail is evident in bright and shadowy areas, presenting us with one of the best-in-class dynamic ranges featured on a DSLR.

Color accuracy is another key strength of the D850’s image quality. The camera produces vibrant, natural colors. This precision is evident when snapping portraits, where it showcases authentic skin tones and subtle hues unmatched by most of its rivals. Of course, you will need to choose the best Nikon lens for your photography style.

Autofocus is another dependable asset this powerhouse can boast. While it may be a little on the sluggish side in live view , it is highly reliable and accurate through the optical viewfinder, even after the sun has set. With dependable subject tracking and a respectable 7FPS burst shooting (or 9FPS with the optional battery grip), you can comfortably capture fast-moving subjects, making it an excellent choice for shooting sports events or wildlife.

While Nikon primarily markets the D850 as a stills camera, it also produces some decent results for the videographer. You can shoot 4K video at 24/25/30FPS and in Full HD 1080p at up to 60FPS, with a maximum recording time of 30 minutes.

The Nikon D850 is a powerful professional-level camera that can hold up to just about any shooting scenario.

Best Budget DSLR Camera: Canon EOS Rebel T8i

You don’t need to spend a fortune to get a quality DSLR. The Canon EOS Rebel T8i is an entry-level APS-C DSLR that offers excellence at an affordable price. Sure, it doesn’t quite match the levels of our top pick, the Nikon D850, nor does it get near the professional cameras at the absolute top of the DSLR food chain, but it is still an excellent choice.

The Canon EOS camera offers an excellent balance of value, features, and performance. However, it’s not the absolute lowest price tag attached to a DSLR. If you seek rock-bottom pricing, consider something like the Canon EOS Rebel T7 . It doesn’t quite match the T8i, but it does offer exceptional savings with a surprisingly good performance, especially for newcomers to the DSLR world.

But, back to the T8i. This compact and lightweight camera is also a good choice for newcomers to DSLR photography. It’s easy to use; the menu system on the bright LCD is easy to navigate, and there are some excellent guides to help you get started. Newbie vloggers will appreciate the tilting screen, the 4K/24p video capability, the 16:9 vertical video output, and the digital image stabilization .

The 24MP APS-C sensor delivers detailed stills with crisp images and attractive colors, especially at lower ISOs. Noise is pretty evident at higher ISOs, so you’ll need to consider a good tripod for shooting in low light. Battery life is also excellent, with a rating of 800–1,240 shots when using the optical viewfinder. To round things off, the EOS Rebel T8i has a decent 18-55mm kit lens, although it may not have the best low-light performance.

With an intuitive menu system for beginners, 4K video recording, and sharp, detailed stills, the Canon EOS Rebel T8i is an affordable pick for DSLR enthusiasts and beginners.

Best DSLR for Beginners: Nikon D3500

Despite the relentless rise of the mirrorless camera, it’s never too late to get into DSLR photography. In fact, kickstarting a DSLR career has never been so affordable. While flagship models stubbornly remain above price for most, you can find plenty of bargains at the entry-level end.

One of the best cameras for newcomers is the Nikon D3500 . Its straightforward design and intuitive features make it an excellent entry-level choice. Newbies also benefit from its helpful Guide Mode. This mode assists budding enthusiasts in finding their way around the camera and can teach techniques such as softening backgrounds or freezing motion.

The D3500’s DX-format 24.2MP CMOS sensor offers great image quality for the price. With consistently sharp edge-to-edge details and vibrant, rich colors, it’s a camera that will quickly have newbies upping their level.

However, the autofocus system is relative to its price. It works well for single shots but may struggle to keep up and track in dim light. At 5FPS, burst shooting is good enough for most beginners. It’s not the camera of choice for capturing fast-paced action, but it's suitable for general photography and learning the basics of shooting, including manual focusing .

Ergonomics are good, and despite the compact design, it should still be comfortable enough for large hands. With its impressive battery life of up to 1,550 shots, you have everything you need for an enjoyable day or two of DSLR shooting.

However, videographers looking for a budget-priced DSLR should consider the Canon EOS Rebel T8i instead. The Nikon D3500 doesn’t shoot in 4K, but it can shoot in Full HD at up to 60FPS, so it is fine for short videos and clips for social media.

This APS-C sensor DSLR camera is perfect for beginners to learn the basics without breaking the bank.

Best DSLR Camera for Video: Nikon D780

Most photographers will tell you mirrorless cameras are better for shooting video than DSLRs. They are not wrong—however, that doesn’t mean DSLRs are a poor choice.

Cameras such as the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III , deliver stunning videos, but you need to be serious about your filmmaking at such a premium price point. But, if you have your heart set on a DSLR and want to include quality video in your new venture, the Nikon D780 offers excellent filmmaking performance at a midrange price.

This camera does have everything you need to up your videography game. To begin with, you can shoot 4K video in 24/25/30FPS and Full HD movies get the bonus of 120FPS for some quality slow-motion. In addition, with its 10-bit 4K HDMI output and N-Log support, you get a wide dynamic range, rich color depth for cinematic recordings, and flexible post-production color grading.

A 51-point autofocus system with 15 cross-type points boosts your video shooting skills, offering one of the best DSLR autofocus systems available. It’s speedy and reliable and provides precise subject tracking. With on-sensor phase-detection pixels in live view, performance remains consistent whether using the viewfinder or the LCD screen. It also keeps on delivering after sunset, enabling the enjoyment of reliable focus even in challenging light.

The D780 also has a durable design and is fully weather-sealed. It features a deep, ergonomic grip for comfortable shooting over extended periods, further enhancing its suitability for videographers.

However, don’t presume this camera is only for shooting video. It’s an excellent camera for stills, too. The 24.5MP full-frame sensor delivers first-class quality, and its broad ISO range allows you to shoot in various lighting conditions with reduced noise at higher ISOs. You can also capture fast action with its 7FPS burst shooting (12FPS in live view using the electronic shutter).

Nikon's D780 camera is a quality all-rounder with one of the best video recording systems you'll find without going mirrorless.

What does DSLR stand for?

DSLR stands for “digital single-lens reflex.” It’s the digital version of a traditional SLR camera. DSLRs utilize a mirror to direct light from the lens to the optical viewfinder. This allows photographers to see exactly what the camera lens ‘sees.’

The mirror flips up when the photographer presses the shutter button, allowing light to hit the sensor and capture the image in digital format.

What is the difference between a DSLR and a mirrorless camera?

There are significant differences between DSLR and mirrorless cameras. If you are currently pondering which type to buy, you will benefit from reading a more detailed explanation before deciding.

For a brief overview, consider the following:

DSLRs tend to be heavier and bulkier
DSLRs are arguably more durable
DSLRs usually have more extensive battery lives
DSLRs have a more comprehensive range of lenses
DSLRs use optical viewfinders
Mirrorless cameras use electronic viewfinders
Mirrorless cameras generally have better video capabilities
Mirrorless cameras boast better live-view autofocus systems

Why do people prefer a DSLR camera?

Many photographers prefer the more traditional approach of a DSLR camera. The optical viewfinder, for example, allows them to see lag-free images from the lens without any electronic processing.

Many also argue that DSLRs still offer superior image quality over mirrorless cameras, but as mirrorless innovations advance, we hear this argument less frequently. Another dwindling argument is that DSLRs boast superior autofocus systems. Just a short time ago, this was absolutely correct, but with mirrorless engineering constantly evolving, they are rapidly catching up in this respect, too.

Durable builds and better battery lives make DSLRs good choices for outdoor work, especially if you’re shooting somewhere with limited power options or in more extreme conditions. The bulkier build of the DSLR also gives more space on the camera body for additional manual controls, offering the DSLR photographer better control and customization. However, with the continuous mirrorless evolution, this is another DSLR advantage that is being caught up on.

Another reason why many people still prefer the DSLR is that because of their longer history, they have a wider selection of lenses to choose from.

Do mirrorless camera lenses work on a DSLR camera?

Unfortunately, mirrorless lenses are incompatible with DSLRs. However, if you are thinking of switching from DSLR to mirrorless, then your lenses can work on your new mirrorless if you buy the correct adapter for them.

Do I need a CFExpress card for my DSLR camera?

Generally speaking, your DSLR does not require a CFExpress card. If you own a professional-grade DSLR, however, it is definitely worth considering. Cameras like the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III or the Nikon D6 are equipped to take advantage of the faster speeds for continuous shooting bursts, high-resolution images, and 4K/8K video recording. So, if you’re not lucky enough to own one of these premium cameras, the likelihood is that the DSLR you have is incompatible with CFExpress cards.

WTF? Kodak just toppled Canon, Sony Fujifilm AND Nikon

Kodak has more market share than Canon, Sony, Fujifilm and Nikon in Japan, owning almost a quarter of the market

Kodak is now the number one digital camera brand in Japan. Yes, ahead of Canon , Sony and Nikon .

The iconic brand now holds a monster 22.5% market share of the digital camera market. Not just niche subcategories like compact cameras or waterproof cameras , but mirrorless cameras and DSLRs as well.

Canon comes in second, with 20.2% of the market, followed by Sony at 16.5%, with Fujifilm coming in fourth with 10.6% and… Kenko Tokina at 6.9%.

It's a truly remarkable feat. Indeed, just one camera – the Kodak Pixpro FZ55 – holds an 11% share of the market, its closest competitor being the Sony ZV-E10 with 8.2%.

So what the heck is going on here?

Let's take a closer look at this data – which comes courtesy of BCN Retail in Japan (which aggregates point-of-sale information from major retailers across the country). The story, in short, is that the best-selling cameras are entry-level, budget-friendly and small.

As such, the top ten cameras sold in April are dominated by compacts. Kodak has three (the FZ55, FZ45 and the waterproof Kodak Pixpro WPZ2 ), Canon has one (the IXY 650) and Kenko has one (the KC-03TY).

Get the Digital Camera World Newsletter

The best camera deals, reviews, product advice, and unmissable photography news, direct to your inbox!

The rest of them aren't compact camera but they are compact cameras. The Sony ZV-E10, the Canon EOS R50 and EOS R10 , the Nikon Z30 and the Instax Mini Evo .

I think it's dangerous to write this development off as "it's only in Japan", or by saying "cheap compact cameras are a Gen Z fad", or any other form of dismissal that assumes this is merely an anomoly.

Recently, Sigma 's CEO spoke to DPReview and about his market concerns – which essentially explain the situation.

"One reason for my concern is the increasing average price of cameras and lenses," said Kazuto Yamaki . "I'm afraid that not so many customers can afford such high-priced cameras and lenses, so we’re still trying hard to keep the retail price reasonable."

"Especially these days, the younger generation takes huge amounts of photos with smartphones. While we can expect some of them to switch from a smartphone to a camera, many may find the price gap too wide, and challenging to make the switch.

"Moving forward, I speculate that more user-friendly specifications might mean more to customers. Easier to use interfaces, a compact and lightweight body for enhanced portability, or some other specifications might be more important."

Whatever the reason, whatever the pattern does or doesn't mean, Kodak is the number one camera brand in Japan for the first time in decades. To me personally, it's a fuzzy and lovely thing to see. To the industry at large, it's a giant red flag that times are changing.

Kodak PIXPRO FZ55 point and shoot compact camera

If you're interested in small and lightweight cameras for your next trip, you might be interested in the best travel cameras .

Thank you for reading 5 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

The editor of Digital Camera World, James has 21 years experience as a journalist and started working in the photographic industry in 2014 (as an assistant to Damian McGillicuddy, who succeeded David Bailey as Principal Photographer for Olympus). In this time he shot for clients like Aston Martin Racing, Elinchrom and L'Oréal, in addition to shooting campaigns and product testing for Olympus, and providing training for professionals. This has led him to being a go-to expert for camera and lens reviews, photo and lighting tutorials, as well as industry news, rumors and analysis for publications like Digital Camera Magazine , PhotoPlus: The Canon Magazine , N-Photo: The Nikon Magazine , Digital Photographer and Professional Imagemaker, as well as hosting workshops and talks at The Photography Show . He also serves as a judge for the Red Bull Illume Photo Contest. An Olympus and Canon shooter, he has a wealth of knowledge on cameras of all makes – and a fondness for vintage lenses and instant cameras.

SpeediGimbal offers high-speed support for wildlife and sports photographers

Sigma announces 28-45mm F1.8 Art lens for full-frame cameras

Sigma has announced its newest optic, the 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN Art lens for E-mount and L-mount cameras. The lens covers a wide-to-standard focal range, and Sigma claims it's the first constant aperture F1.8 zoom lens for full-frame mirrorless cameras.

Sigma is setting high expectations for this lens, claiming that it achieves image quality comparable to prime lenses and that it exceeds the performance of its own 24mm F1.4 DG DN and 50mm F1.4 DG DN Art lenses.

To do this, the 28-45mm F1.8 has an optical formula that includes three aspherical and five SLD (super-low dispersion) elements in front of an 11-bladed aperture. Sigma says the lens will deliver excellent performance wide open and is specifically designed to suppress longitudinal chromatic aberration.

The tradeoff for the fast aperture is size and weight: The lens is 151mm (6") long with a diameter of 88mm (3.5") and weighs 960g (33.9 oz).

Sigma is targeting video users in addition to still photographers. The lens's autofocus is driven by an HLA (high-response linear actuator) motor to provide quick and fast AF, and Sigma says the optics are designed to minimize breathing when focusing. An internal zoom design should make it easier to use on gimbals.

Other features include a lockable aperture ring, a click/de-click switch allowing for clickless aperture changes and two customizable buttons. The minimum focus distance is 30cm (11.8") across the entire zoom range, and the lens has a maximum magnification of 1:4. It uses an 82mm filter thread, and Sigma says the lens is dust and splash-resistant.

Pricing and availability

The Sigma 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN Art lens has a suggested retail price of $1349, which includes a case and lens hood. It's expected to be available for purchase on June 20.

Click to see our 28-45mm F1.8 DN DG Art sample gallery

Press release:

Introducing the sigma 28-45mm f1.8 dg dn | art, the first full-frame f1.8 zoom lens for mirrorless camera systems.

Ronkonkoma, NY – June 3, 2024 – SIGMA Corporation of America, the US subsidiary of SIGMA Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki. Headquarters: Asao-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa, Japan) is pleased to announce the SIGMA 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN | Art lens. This is the world's first zoom lens with a constant F1.8 aperture for full-frame mirrorless camera systems. Available for Sony E-mount and L-Mount, this new wide-to-standard zoom spans several popular focal lengths from 28mm to 45mm, with image quality comparable to prime lenses.

The SIGMA 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN | Art was developed as a full-frame successor to the SIGMA 18-35mm F1.8 DC HSM | Art (for APS-C DSLR cameras), which in 2013 became the first lens in the world to achieve F1.8 throughout the entire zoom range.

While offering the convenience of a zoom, this new lens does not compromise on optical performance. By effectively arranging 3 aspherical lens elements and 5 SLD glass elements, this lens suppresses various aberrations and achieves performance comparable to single focal length lenses, even surpassing the SIGMA 24mm F1.4 DG DN | Art and SIGMA 50mm F1.4 DG DN | Art, which have an established reputation for their optical quality.

In particular, the 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN | Art focuses on suppressing axial chromatic aberration, which is often noticeable in large-aperture lenses, to achieve images with minimal coloration on both the focus plane and bokeh, and to demonstrate high optical performance from open aperture. The minimum focusing distance is 30cm (11.8 inches) throughout the entire range, and the maximum magnification ratio of 1:4 is achieved at the 45mm focal length.

Featuring internal zoom and HLA (High-response Linear Actuator) autofocus, and an optical design that minimizes focus breathing, the SIGMA 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN | Art is well-suited for video work, including gimbal setups, thanks to its balanced design. The click/de-click switch and lockable aperture ring are designed to suit a variety of personal capture preferences, and the dust- and splash-resistant design also makes it suitable for shooting stills and video out in the elements.

The SIGMA 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN | Art lens will be available for $1,349 through authorized retailers in the US in late June 2024.

Learn more at the SIGMA America website:

https://www.sigmaphoto.com/28-45mm-f1-8-dg-dn-a

Sigma 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN Art specifications

Gear in this story.

Discuss in the forums
See full product details
View sample images

When you use DPReview links to buy products, the site may earn a commission.

For the money, I'd rather have the Sigma 35mm F1.2, it is smaller length but a fraction heavier, you know it's going to be way sharper with better bokeh than the zoom. If I'm going to lug the weight, yeah, gimme the 1.2. With 61Mp or the option to stitch pano's, I'll pass on the short zooms as a class all together.

https://www.dpreview.com/products/compare/side-by-side?products=sigma_35_1p2_dg_dn&products=sigma_28-45_1p8_dg_dn_art

A nice lens, at correct price!

Canon will have a lot of problems. More people will migrate to Sony.

Why? They have a 28-70 f/2. The difference at 28mm between f/1.8 and f/2 is visually indistinguishable. The difference between 70mm @ f/2 and 45mm @ 1.8 is massive. The cost difference to change systems is more than just buying the expensive-but-nothing-like-it 28-70 f/2.

He is probably talking about the rumored Sony 24-70 F2 GM. Nobody will switch for this Sigma, although it is a bit lighter than the Canon

The difference is in the price. It's not just because of this lens. But this lens can be a ENOUGH CANON! But it has a lot of Sigma DN lenses being released and at fair prices.

@FelipeCastro we didn't wait for such kind of comment for a long time. It's here 🤦‍♂️ I've just seen running people. Probably they were migrating to Fony. Please migrate with them. Canon won't regret.

If this one was 28-70mm I would be interested but with ending at 45mm it's not that exciting even for the price. 1.6x zoom range is just too low, you might as well start cropping with a prime on high resolution body.

@m_black Yes, but sigma has internal zooming and it's much smaller and cheaper.

Great astro lens. For the cost of two Sigma F2 Contemporary primes, you get 28-45mm coverage. Sure, it weighs about the same as three of those primes, but overall a good proposition, IF you want to shoot in that FL range. That's assuming coma is well controlled, but given that this is Sigma, I suspect it will be.

Pretty odd range for astro, you need to stitch with this, had it gone to 20mm then I would have agreed, it would have made a nice lens for that, but 28mm is a bit annoying, but obviously can be used given coma isn’t too bad.

Likely had bought it had it been a 20-35mm imho

Like I said, if you like to shoot in that range. I do; I really like the compression that happens with the FG and the detail you get in the core. Of course, compositions are harder to come by as the FL increases, but I find that shots in the range offer a nice compliment to the more common WA shots. I see this lens as a great compliment to the Sigma 14-24 F2.8 Art, or the 20mm F1.4 & 14mm F1.4 pairing. But yes, I'd love to see Sigma create something like a 16-24 F2 or some such.

I think most shoot in that range, it’s more it start and end in odd places and is a bit short in its coverage.

A 24-50, 20-35/40 are just more useful and I think many would gladly sacrifice that f1.8 over f2 for that.

The price and optics seem overall nice, the range is just mind bugging

<shrug> Most astro shooters will already have something that can shoot at 24mm. Sigma's 16-28 F2.8 is a decent astro lens. And a mild crop to get to 50mm isn't a big deal. So I'm OK with the range.

If it at least had a decent mechanical vignetting performance at that size, .... but no doesn't deliver

Some Sony gems without the massive software corrections

24mm F/2.8 a modest aperture on a prime

https://g4.img-dpreview.com/B89AE1C969904780984756EAA5A61301.jpg

20-70mm F/4.0

https://s3.amazonaws.com/masters.galleries.prod.dpreview.com/4393218.jpg?X-Amz-Expires=3600&X-Amz-Algorithm=AWS4-HMAC-SHA256&X-Amz-Credential=AKIAUIXIAMA3N436PSEA/20240603/us-east-1/s3/aws4_request&X-Amz-Date=20240603T124610Z&X-Amz-SignedHeaders=host&X-Amz-Signature=f080e6b8799684dcbee95fd6ad29fa21d0709eba8399c033c23a1571eef24175 When it comes to vignetting my 24-105mm when I used Sony literally had black corners when uncorrected. The Sony magic for lens is basically to let distortion and vignetting run free and use software to fix it. Thank god for the Sony hype train , or god forbid some folk may pick up on this

Mechanical vignetting is not the same as just regular vignetting

You are talking about something completely different

I know what you are talking about just pointing that there are issues with lots of different lenses. Some of which cost significantly more

A couple of positive reviews of the Sigma you may have missed when hunting for negative reviews :-}

Trusted YT channels

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9S_p6Rqs4LM

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OkZ2k-NWcSQ

Though I have just added a Sony camera I have zero interest in this lens , the small primes are moire to my liking . I was on the fence about the A7cr but got a fantatsic deal on an A7rIV and went with it

@James Stirling

The 20-70 actually has decent mechanical vignetting performance. Not that it matters much on a 20-70 F4

The 24-70 F2.8 II has actually amazing mechanical vignetting performance.

So does the 24mm F1.4 GM prime

The sigma is a joke in comparison: 28mm: (not great but ok) https://www.the-digital-picture.com/Images/Other/Sigma-28-45mm-F1-8-DG-DN-Art-Lens/Cats-Eye-Bokeh/28mm.webp 35mm: (bad) https://www.the-digital-picture.com/Images/Other/Sigma-28-45mm-F1-8-DG-DN-Art-Lens/Cats-Eye-Bokeh/35mm.webp 45mm: (terrible) https://www.the-digital-picture.com/Images/Other/Sigma-28-45mm-F1-8-DG-DN-Art-Lens/Cats-Eye-Bokeh/45mm.webp

That lens might have less Bokeh in the corner than a 24-70 F2.8

For comparison the Sony 24-70 F2.8 II at 28mm: https://the-digital-picture.com/Images/Other/Sony-FE-24-70mm-f-2.8-GM-II-Lens/Cats-Eye-Bokeh/28mm.webp 35mm: https://the-digital-picture.com/Images/Other/Sony-FE-24-70mm-f-2.8-GM-II-Lens/Cats-Eye-Bokeh/35mm.webp 50mm: https://the-digital-picture.com/Images/Other/Sony-FE-24-70mm-f-2.8-GM-II-Lens/Cats-Eye-Bokeh/50mm.webp

panther fan, very good point about the bokeh around borders and corners. When I was hunting for the fastest primes I got disappointed by the performance of 50mm f/1.2 vs 28-70mm f/2. My subjects are larger and further away (for example train) and I want still decent isolation from background. However the vignetting at wide open means the bokeh far from center is actually not much better on the f/1.2 glass. Any compromises towards compact size will have the same problem here.

Not sure for which usecase you would pay the weight/size price to get this little flexibility in zoom range.

For event/wedding photogs that use 1.8 primes. Maybe on two cameras or maybe they switch a lot. This answers that ‘promblem’. 28-45 1.8 & 85 1.8 makes for a nice event/wedding kit.

This looks pretty good for videographers, especially for low-light events. 28mm is a bit restrictive sometimes though, I shoot theatre with the Canon RF 28-70 and it's hard to frame the whole stage in the composition when you're in the front few rows.

Move to other rows and or go to full dress rehearsals, why restrict your shoot to the first few rows, use a wider lens as well as standard one

Gee I bet he never thought of that. Wow Steve some major revelations there.

I never wanted the 18-35 for APS-C as it starts too long. I was hoping they'll come up with a zoom starting at 24mm. Now they made 28-45 for FF. No thanks.

It's nice to finally see a lens that combines the IQ of a prime but with the size, weight, and copy variation of a zoom.

Not even the IQ of a prime according to reviews

Depends on the reviews :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OkZ2k-NWcSQ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9S_p6Rqs4LM

Sigma's 18-35 and 24-35mm lenses has very low sample variation actually.

haute snark :-D

I lack to see why it cover one standard (35mm) and two that are short off 24 & 50mm, meaning for many it can’t even stand in for those 3 focal length and it weighs as much as a f1.8 in 24, 35 and 50mm primes combined without actually covering them.

This is likely a videographer lens mainly who are okay with the relative short coverage, photographers likely should wait for Sony 24-70/2 that is out later this year (by several reports)

Fun but also a very limited tool

Because its a zoom and making optic formulas for zooms it much more challenging than primes….

You could easily make it cover more but sigma choose gimmicks (1.8 over 2) over more range

I remember reviewers of early 35-70 zoom lenses as going from “not wide enough to not long enough,” that leaped to mind when I read the headline.

Basically my take on it as a photo tool, video could be okay for certain applications

Just got to see reviews none linear focus, focus breathing and not parafocal kinda make it annoying for video

Some fringing, swirling bokeh that is fine at 28mm, but lots cats eye at 45mm. Seems very sharp but really true for most zooms these days so would not expect it otherwise.

@Malling Or alternately Sony is just copying Canon making a fast standard zoom at a slower speed than the Sigma :-) swings and roundabouts methinks . There is also the matter of price this lens is $1349 the Canon 28-70mm f2 L costs $2799, these two lenses also have the not insignificant advantage of actually existing. The Sony will be at least as expensive as the Canon lens

Trolling any post that does not have a Sony badge on it seems to be a bit of a hobby for you :-) Your last 20 posts https://www.dpreview.com/members/4121993800/overview

Everything is a compromise and Sigma rightly chose speed over range within the size and weight limits they had set themselves. 28mm was THE standard wide-angle for three or four decades and plenty of people prefer it to 24mm.

It's size rules it out of many applications for traditional 28, 35 or 50mm primes but being able to get speed normally reserved for primes from a zoom, even a short one, will be very, very useful for many people. It'd be nice for travel.

We are talking 1/3 of a stop difference it’s just not relevant in the real world, if a lens is f2 or 1.8 is just utterly irrelevant, they started making them 1.8 rather than f2 mainly for marketing reasons

Sony likely won’t be larger or heavier so your taking this for budget savings reasons mainly, this will be it’s main selling point, because no rational being care about 1/3 stop.

Trolling whatever you believe darling, the reality is we have the Tamron 35-150 and is a more useful lens and it’s 2.2 at 50mm

Also I couldn’t care any less what it cost in USA

A lens starting at 35mm is not for me though I would prefer 24mm than 28 , oddly enough people have different interests . The Canon lens will be double the price in every market. If the rumoured Sony lens is smaller than the Canon lens it will be because Sony is utilising epic software corrections. They have basically abandoned fixing distortion and vignette to a very significant level.

https://s3.amazonaws.com/masters.galleries.prod.dpreview.com/4412826.jpg?X-Amz-Expires=3600&X-Amz-Algorithm=AWS4-HMAC-SHA256&X-Amz-Credential=AKIAUIXIAMA3N436PSEA/20240603/us-east-1/s3/aws4_request&X-Amz-Date=20240603T133407Z&X-Amz-SignedHeaders=host&X-Amz-Signature=f107c79c25b93b8189042ce7f490f0d6256d8108bc81e95d75861d6dc19c3d41 This is a modest speed F/2.8 24mm prime with and without the corrections. While other makers do make use of this Sony takes the biscuit

Price is very attractive for such versatile zoom. I actually expected the MSRP to be higher. Tempting indeed!!

The replacement for the 24-35 f2 Art on DSLRs start at 28mm. No thank you. Looks like I'll be adapting the older lens for the foreseeable future. This should have been 24-50 or even 24-40.

I hate 28mm with a passion. Hell I'm not the only one - even camera brands hate 28mm. Canon Nikon Sony all don't have GM / L / S line primes at this focal length.

Its just bizarre to hate any one focal length…

I agree with EX. It seems lazy to me and ignoring years of photography wisdom just for economic benefit. Can you take images with 28-45mm? Sure, even good ones but the industry standard has been 24mm and I do not see any reason to redefine this.

Because it reminds me of awful 18-55 kit lenses on dslrs, and also the fov of smartphone cameras. 28 feels like not wide enough and not narrow enough at the same time.

I bought the 24-35 art for... 24 and 35mm. It's like 2 primes in one lens to me (3 primes for people who shoot 28mm). Now with this new lens, what is this man? A 28, 35 and... 45mm prime?

I know sigma is aiming for the 18-35mm apsc Art crowd but im not happy with this.

It’s okay for video stuff imho…. But it’s also about what I see this lens for

No @EXkurogane is right. 28mm is trash. If you ever want a focal length that's not wide enough to be interesting or capture everything you want to include, but at the same time be far too wide to make any decent normal shot, then 28mm is right there to double disappoint

The 24-35mm f/2 for SLRs could be adapted to more mirrorless mounts than this one is available in. You'd lose a fraction of a stop, the size would be about the same and the weight only slightly greater.

I'm not often motivated to post here on DPReview, but by god I couldn't agree more.

I've been a long time user of the 24-35 f/2 and have been crying out for an updated model. No other lens offers quite what the 24-35 f/2 does, and it's been a mainstay of my wedding work for years. I sold it when I moved to the Canon R5 but recently bought a second hand copy as I missed it so much.

But it could do with being sharper, not having IS issues on the R5 and I'd give my left nut to have a non-adapted native model. Come on Sigma PLEASE. (I get that some of this is Canon being tricky with the RF lens mount...)

@Panther fan 28mm has always been a "budget version" of 24mm. They are primarily offered in lower budget primes and also kit zoom lenses because they are easier and cheaper to design optically. But the result is a fov that's stuck between neither wide nor narrow enough for most uses except street photography.

Landscapes taken at 28mm often look awful, and I myself feel street photography needs to be captured near the fov of the human eye and that would be 35 to 40+mm.

High end 28mm lenses are not common for this reason - the sole exception in recent years i can think of, was nikon's 28mm 1.4E which came out really late (was it year 2017?) when F mount was already on the way to be succeeded by Z mount, and Sigma's 28mm art which was the least popular art lens between the 20 to 85 range.

Neither wide or tight enough? Did you mean 35mm?

28mm isn't too bad. What is worse is the short other end, it's not even 2x zoom. I say that as happy owner of the RF 28-70mm f/2.

Does anyone think 28-45mm useful?

Yes definitely

Photo not really don’t cover enough ground and is as heavy as 3x 1.8 primes with sort of speed astro would make sense but odd focal range for that, otherwise handy for event but again the range is weird and there the tamron 35-150mm 2-2.8 that just is far better fit.

Very useful, yes

The original 18-35mm f/1.8 covered the FF equivalent of 27-52mm and everyone loved it. So, very useful.

Dream range, exactly what I always use.

MAubrey Yes the 18-35mm had almost 2x range which is the minimum useful to me. I had it for couple years but for the last 4 years my most used lens is the 28-70mm f/2, 2.5x zoom range. This one ends just too short.

Still no 180mm Macro or even 150mm Macro.

That’s a big boy 😬

Latest in-depth reviews

The Lumix S9 is Panasonic's newest full-frame mirrorless camera. It allows users to create their own custom looks for out-of-camera colors and is the first full-frame Lumix camera aimed squarely at social media content creators.

The Sony a9 III is the world's first full-frame mirrorless camera to feature a global electronic shutter with simultaneous readout. After extensive testing of this 120 fps sports camera, to see what you gain (and, perhaps, lose).

Fujifilm X-T50 initial review: mid-range X-T goes steady

Fujifilm has announced the X-T50, a mid-range 40MP APS-C mirrorless camera that gains image stabilization, subject recognition AF and a host of high-res video features.

The Fujifilm X100VI is the sixth iteration of Fujifilm's classically-styled large sensor compact. A 40MP X-Trans sensor, in-body stabilization and 6.2K video are the major updates, but do they make the camera better?

The Panasonic Lumix S5II launched the second generation of Panasonic’s full-frame mirrorless camera system and was the first Panasonic to feature phase detect autofocus. As our review reveals, it’s a heck of an all-around camera for both still and video shooters.

Latest buying guides

What’s the best camera for around $2000? This price point gives you access to some of the most all-round capable cameras available. Excellent image quality, powerful autofocus and great looking video are the least you can expect. We've picked the models that really stand out.

What's the best camera for travel? Good travel cameras should be small, versatile, and offer good image quality. In this buying guide we've rounded-up several great cameras for travel and recommended the best.

If you want a compact camera that produces great quality photos without the hassle of changing lenses, there are plenty of choices available for every budget. Read on to find out which portable enthusiast compacts are our favorites.

'What's the best mirrorless camera?' We're glad you asked.

Above $2500 cameras tend to become increasingly specialized, making it difficult to select a 'best' option. We case our eye over the options costing more than $2500 but less than $4000, to find the best all-rounder.

Nikon's Nikkor Z 600mm F6.3 VR S is a lightweight super telephoto

We took Sigma's newest lens, the 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN Art as our travel companion on a trip to the UK. Check out our sample gallery, which includes images from the bustle of downtown London to the serene countryside.

Sigma announces 28-45mm F1.8 Art lens for full-frame cameras

Sigma has announced its newest optic, the 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN Art lens for E-mount and L-mount cameras. Sigma claims it's the first constant aperture F1.8 zoom lens for full-frame mirrorless cameras.

Panasonic S9 gallery update: Raw conversions and LUT examples

Now that we've had some more time with the Panasonic S9, we've updated our sample gallery to include examples of Panasonic's Real Time LUTs as well as some Raw conversions, including one image designed to push the camera's dynamic range.

Opinion: let me get my hands on the goodies

The aspect ratio switch on Leica's D-Lux8 is a great reminder of the value of giving direct access to the most distinctive features. Editor Richard Butler thinks this is exactly what Fujifilm X-T50's Film Simulation dial achieves.

We want to see your best nature photos: DPReview Editors' Challenge

June is packed with multiple days celebrating Mother Nature. Get out there and touch grass; we want to see your best nature photos!

The team behind the award-winning Halide camera app for iOS has announced Kino, a video-only app that includes advanced video capture features and built-in color presets crated by pro colorists.

Sigma CEO talks market trends, the challenge of innovation and the future for APS-C

"All camera and lens manufacturers have to be innovative," says Sigma CEO Kazuto Yamaki, but "technology competition among manufacturers may not always be beneficial to customers... some other specifications might be more important."

Every week, we ask newsletter subscribers a question about gear, creativity or life. Recently we wanted to know: If you could go back to your 20-year-old self, what camera related advice would you give yourself?

Fujifilm X-T50 first-look video and preview samples

We had a chance to shoot with the Fujifilm X-T50 for quite a while, so we put together a first-look video, outlining what it can offer, as well as shooting a sample gallery using a variety of Film Simulations.

Got a new camera? Change these settings before you shoot!

Setting up your new camera is a rite of passage for all photographers. Avoid mistakes, adjust these settings first.

Leica continues compacts with D-Lux 8 featuring four thirds type sensor

Leica has announced it will introduce the D-Lux 8, an enthusiast zoom compact based around a four thirds type sensor.

Panasonic S9 first-look video and preview samples

We had the opportunity to use the new Panasonic S9 for several days at Panasonic's Lumix Summit in Osaka, Japan. In this short video, we take a closer look at the camera, who it's designed for, and the philosophy behind its LUT-based workflow.

Our favorite bird pictures: DPReview Editors' Challenge results

The best of the best from the DPReview community, see our favorite photos you made from the "for the birds" challenge.

Panasonic has announced a manual focus, fixed aperture 26mm F8 lens to go with the S9, it's also said it's working on an 18-40mm F4.5-6.3 wide-angle zoom.

2024 Milky Way Photographer of the Year winners announced

Now in its seventh year, the annual awards recognize some of the best astrophotography of the year.

Adobe updates Lightroom with 'generative remove' and lens blur tools

Furthering its quest to implement AI across its product line, Adobe is bringing Adobe Firefly's 'Generative' tool to Lightroom. Also announced today: expanded tethering for Sony cameras and an updated toolbar for the mobile version.

Every week, we ask newsletter subscribers a question about gear, creativity or life. This week we wanted to know: if you could only pick one lens, what would it be and why?

Fujifilm XF16-50mm F2.8-4.8 R LM WR sample gallery

We got a chance to take Fujifilm's new premium kit zoom to Stockholm, to get a sense of how it looks on a 40MP sensor.

A nature photography tour of Madagascar, Part 3: Kirindy Forest

Leaping lemurs and enchanting baobab trees, nature photographer Erez Marom takes us through the national parks of Madagascar.

DPReview Rewind: the birth of the Canon EOS D30, its first 'home grown' DSLR

On this day in history, in the year 2000, Canon's EOS D30 became the first-ever multi-megapixel CMOS sensor used in a production camera. It also helped usher in the then-new era of 'prosumer' cameras.

Sigma announces 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II for Sony E and Leica L mounts

Sigma has announced an updated 24-70mm F2.8 as part of its Art series of lenses. The 24-70mm F2.8 DG DN II

Fujifilm has replaced one of our favorite kit zooms with the XF16-50mm F2.8-4.8 R LM WR, a wider, lighter but less bright premium kit lens.

Fujifilm creates GFX 100S II, $5000 compact medium format camera

Fujifilm has announced the GFX 100S II, an upgraded version of its more compact, affordable 100MP medium format mirrorless camera, with a better viewfinder and upgraded capabilities.

Fujifilm announces 500mm F5.6 R LM OIS WR tele for medium format

Fujifilm has announced the GF 500mm F5.6 R LM OIS WR, a relatively compact super-telephoto prime for its GFX medium format system.

Fujifilm joins C2PA and CAI content authentication organizations

Fujifilm has joined C2PA and CAI, the two groups leading efforts to add cryptographic proof of authenticity to photos.

Canon announces EOS R1 development [Updated]

Canon has announced it is developing (and is currently testing) the EOS R1, the "first flagship model for [the] EOS R system."

Sigma 15mm F1.4 Diagonal Fisheye sample gallery: Night photography in the sub-arctic

In late February, Sigma announced the 15mm F1.4 DG DN Diagonal Fisheye lens, and we put it into the hands of a professional astrophotographer for a shoot in the Canadian sub-arctic. Check out his gallery and see how it performs under the night sky.

Gear Patrol
Work for us
Advertise with us
Feedback / Contact us
Camera reviews
Lens reviews
Printer reviews
Buying guides
Sample images
Editorial enquiries
Camera search
Camera comparison
Lens search
Product timeline
Browse all products
Community Guidelines
My Settings
My GearList

COMMENTS

New: 7 Best cameras for travel
The Nikon Zf is a classically styled full-frame camera built around a 24MP full-frame sensor that's used by many of its peers. The angular 80s-style body isn't the most comfortable to hold in your hand for extended periods, but the lack of stick-out grip makes it smaller than many of its rivals, making it a tempting travel companion.
DPReview Recommends: Best Compact Cameras for Travel
Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark II : Canon's PowerShot G1 X Mark II is a useful camera for traveling, thanks to its wide-ranging 24-120mm F2-3.9 zoom lens and near-APS-C format CMOS sensor. The G1 X Mark II's 12.8MP sensor is a little long in the tooth, but image quality in good light is excellent.
Buying Guide: Best camera for a family vacation
4 Canon EOS R10. 5 Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II. 6 Fujifilm X100V. 7 Fujifilm X-S10. Gear in this story. Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII. DPReview Gold Award.
Best travel camera for 2024: top choices for your adventures
Combining a small form factor with a high-res 61MP sensor and fantastic autofocus, the Sony A7C R is the best full-frame camera for travel photography. 8. Fujifilm X-S20. A capable sensor and ...
The Best Travel Cameras for 2024
Canon EOS R10. 4.0. $879.00 at Amazon. See It. The Canon EOS R10 is a slim camera that supports changeable lenses and produces quality pictures. Despite its mid-entry price, it offers class ...
The best travel camera in 2024
Best overall. 1. Fujifilm X100VI. Preorder at BHPhoto. View at Walmart. Check Amazon. Travel cameras should be small and light, but not lacking in features for amazing photos and video. The Fujifilm X100VI ticks all of those boxes, with a diminutive size, but 40MP images and 6.2K video.
The 5 Best Compact Cameras For Travel
Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III: The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III is a good compact vlogging camera. Unlike the Sony ZV-1, it has a built-in livestreaming feature that some travel vloggers may find appealing. However, its autofocus isn't as effective, and the camera doesn't have a fully articulated screen.
The 6 Best Travel Cameras
8.0. Action Video. 5.9. Body Type SLR-Style. Mirrorless Yes. Sensor Size 4/3 (MFT) See all our test results. The OM SYSTEM OM-5 is one of the best travel cameras you can get. As part of the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) system, it offers a good combination of portability, ruggedness, and image quality.
The 12 Best Travel Cameras of 2024
Best Budget Mirrorless: Canon EOS R50 at B&H Photo Video ($629) Jump to Review. Best Retro Look: Fujifilm X100VI Camera at B&H Photo Video (See Price) Jump to Review. Best Mirrorless for Beginners ...
The 13 Best Compact Cameras of 2024
Best Full-frame Compact: Sony Cyber-shot RX1R II Digital Camera at Amazon ($3,298) Jump to Review. Best Zoom: Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS200D Digital Camera at Amazon ($700) Jump to Review. Best Splurge ...
The 11 Best Travel Cameras: A Buyer's Guide
Sony RX100 VII. Buy now: $1,298, bhphotovideo.com; amazon.com. Weight: 10.7 ounces. Size: 4 inches by 2.3 inches by 1.7 inches. Sony's RX100 line has long been at the top of the list of quality point and shoots, and the new, sleek VII model packs a professional punch for such a small body.
The 6 Best Mirrorless Cameras For Travel
Jan 26, 2024: Replaced the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III with the OM SYSTEM OM-5, as it's more widely available. Oct 27, 2023: Added mention of the Sony α7C II to flesh out the market context for the Sony a7C. Aug 31, 2023: Added the Fujifilm X-T5 as the 'Best Mirrorless Camera For Travel' and shifted the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III down to the ...
The 7 Best compact zoom cameras
Long zoom camera. Best long-zoom camera: Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV. Best ultra-zoom camera: Nikon Coolpix P1000. Compact superzoom cameras. Best compact superzoom: Panasonic Lumic DC-ZS200. Waterproof cameras. Best waterproof compact: OM System Tough TG-7. Vlogging cameras. Best vlogging compact Sony ZV-1 Mark II.
The Best Compact Travel Cameras to Take on Your Next Adventure
Lens: Zeiss Vario-Sonnar f/2.8-4.5 Lens, 24-200mm (35mm equivalent) Year released: August 2019. Sony's RX100 line of compact shooters has long been a fan favorite and the VII is the latest and greatest model — it's really just a great all-around travel camera.
The best travel cameras for 2024
Sony RX100 VII - check best price. Best all-in-one travel camera: Sony RX10 IV - check for best price. Best DSLR for travel: Nikon D5600 - check best price. Best travel camera for enthusiasts: Fujifilm X-S10 - check best price. Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III - check best price. Nikon Z 5 - check best price.
15 Best Travel Cameras for Every Type of Trip
Leica M10. Best for: Landscapes, cityscapes, and portraits. "My Leica M10 paired with a 35mm lens is my most trusted travel companion," says Laucht. "Small, nimble, and film camera-like in ...
The best travel cameras of 2023
These are the best travel cameras available, no matter what you are looking for. Best overall: Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII. Best action camera: GoPro HERO11 Black. Best 360 camera: Insta360 X3. Best mirrorless: Fujifilm X -T5. Best mirrorless on a budget: Canon EOS R100. Best for video: Sony ZV-E1.
The best compact cameras for travelers in 2022
Sony RX100VII. Best for: Speed and accuracy in a tiny package. Thanks to new sensor technology, this Sony model can shoot 20 frames per second with virtually no image distortion. Despite being ...
7 Best mirrorless cameras
Our picks: Best value: Sony a6100. Best APS-C mirrorless camera: Sony a6700. Best bargain full-frame: Canon EOS R8. Best mirrorless camera under $2000: Nikon Zf. Best mid-priced mirrorless camera: Canon EOS R6 II. Best high-end mirrorless camera: Nikon Z8. Compact high-resolution: Sony a7CR.
Panasonic Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 review
But if you want the ultimate travel compact camera, the Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 ticks pretty much every box. Panasonic Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 price Current price: £729 / $799.99 / AU$1,199
Review: The best travel camera for every type of photographer
DSLR and mirrorless cameras usually have full-frame (~36mm wide) or APS-C (22.3-23.6mm wide) sensors, while compact cameras have 1-inch (13.2mm wide) sensors. The iPhone 11 has a 1/2.55" sensor, for comparison, and that will give you 12MP images. For a more detailed guide to sensor sizes, check out this graphic.
The Best DSLR Cameras of 2024
The Canon EOS Rebel T8i is an entry-level APS-C DSLR that offers excellence at an affordable price. Sure, it doesn't quite match the levels of our top pick, the Nikon D850, nor does it get near the professional cameras at the absolute top of the DSLR food chain, but it is still an excellent choice.
6 of the Best Cameras You Can Buy Right Now
Read our review. Watch the video review. View sample images. When you use DPReview links to buy products, the site may earn a commission. Nikon Z fc. Body Only. $856.95. Shop now. Body w/ NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR Lens.
WTF? Kodak just toppled Canon, Sony Fujifilm AND Nikon
Canon comes in second, with 20.2% of the market, followed by Sony at 16.5%, with Fujifilm coming in fourth with 10.6% and…. Kenko Tokina at 6.9%. It's a truly remarkable feat. Indeed, just one camera - the Kodak Pixpro FZ55 - holds an 11% share of the market, its closest competitor being the Sony ZV-E10 with 8.2%.
Tested: Four travel tripods for every budget
In this review we compare the following travel tripods: MeFoto BackPacker S - $159.95 list / ~$120 street. Manfrotto BeFree Advanced - $324.99 list / ~$280 street. Peak Design Travel Tripod - $599.95 list / ~$600 street. Gitzo Traveler Series 1 - $1014.99 list / ~$600 street. Travel tripods are available across a very wide price range, from ...
Sigma announces 28-45mm F1.8 Art lens for full-frame cameras
Ronkonkoma, NY - June 3, 2024 - SIGMA Corporation of America, the US subsidiary of SIGMA Corporation (CEO: Kazuto Yamaki. Headquarters: Asao-ku, Kawasaki-shi, Kanagawa, Japan) is pleased to announce the SIGMA 28-45mm F1.8 DG DN | Art lens. This is the world's first zoom lens with a constant F1.8 aperture for full-frame mirrorless camera ...

The 13 Best Compact Cameras of 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

Best Overall

Best Image Quality

Best Full-frame Compact

Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS200D Digital Camera

Best Splurge

Best for Videos and Vlogging

Fujifilm X100VI Camera

Kodak Ektar H35 Half Frame Film Camera

Best Instant

Best Durable

Best for Action Sports

Best Waterproof

Best Budget

Tips for Buying a Compact Camera

Prioritize quality

Choose a camera based on your skill level and goals

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Related Articles

The 11 Best Travel Cameras

What to look for in a travel camera

Capabilities

Battery life

Accessories

What are the different types of travel cameras?

Point and shoot

Action cameras

The best cameras for travel

The best point-and-shoot cameras for travel

Sony RX100 VII

Canon PowerShot G7X Mark II

The best bridge camera for travel

Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ1000 II

The best mirrorless cameras for travel

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III

Fujifilm X-T4

Sony a7R III

The best DSLR cameras for travel

Canon EOS Rebel SL3

The best action cameras for travel

GoPro Hero8

Olympus Tough TG-6

Notable Mentions

Best Mirrorless Camera For Travel

Best Full Frame Mirrorless Camera For Travel

Best Upper Mid-Range Mirrorless Camera For Travel

Best Mid-Range Mirrorless Camera For Travel

Best Budget Mirrorless Camera For Travel

Best Mirrorless Vlogging Camera For Travel

The Best Compact Travel Cameras to Take on Your Next Adventure

Products in the Guide

What to Look for

How We Tested

Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX100 VII

Ricoh GRIIIx

Ricoh GR IIIx

Fujifilm X100V

Fuijifilm X100V

Fujifilm X-T30 II

Other Cameras to Consider

Related Topics

APS-C vs full-frame – which sensor size is best?

The best travel cameras for 2024

How to choose the best travel camera or holiday camera

The best travel cameras and vacation cameras: our full list

Fujifilm X100V – $1,399 / £1,339

Panasonic LX100 II – $849 / £859

Panasonic Lumix TZ200 / ZS200 – $697 / £679

Sony RX100 VII – $1,298 / £1,049

Sony RX10 IV – $1,698 / £1,499

Nikon D5600 + 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6 lens – $969 / £749

Fujifilm X-S10 + 16-80mm f/4 lens – $1698 / £1,399

Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III + 14-150mm lens – $1,498 / £1,299

Nikon Z 5 + 24-200mm f/4-6.3 lens – $2,193 / £2,029

You may also like...

What are the best small mirrorless cameras?

The best DSLR camera you can buy in 2024

Best smartphones for portrait photography 2024

The Best Travel Cameras for Every Type of Trip