Looking for the best point and shoot cameras right now feels like stepping into a very different market than the one we left five years ago. Mirrorless bodies have eaten most of the enthusiast segment, smartphones have swallowed casual snapshots, and yet Gen Z has revived the dedicated compact so aggressively that used digicams now trade above their original retail on resale sites. We spent six weeks with ten of the most popular point and shoot cameras available today to figure out which ones actually earn a spot in your bag.
Our team tested everything from the budget Kodak FZ55 that has held the #1 best-seller slot in the Digital Point and Shoot Cameras category for months, all the way up to the Sony RX100 VII flagship that pro vloggers have leaned on for years. We ranked each model on image quality, autofocus, zoom reach, video specs, ergonomics, and value. What you get below is a hands-on list of the best compact cameras you can buy in September 2026, grouped by what they actually do best.
Whether you want a pocketable camera that beats your phone, a travel zoom for concerts and safaris, or a budget pick for the kids, this guide covers it. If you’re specifically shopping for content creation, our vlogging-focused roundup digs deeper into that niche, and our guide on 3-point lighting kits pairs nicely once you have the camera sorted.
Table of Contents
- Top 3 Best Point and Shoot Cameras in September
- Best Point and Shoot Cameras in 2026 Quick Overview
- 1. KODAK PIXPRO FZ55: Best Point and Shoot Camera Overall
- 2. KODAK PIXPRO FZ45: Best Budget Pick
- 3. Sony RX100 VII: Premium Pick for Pros
- 4. Sony RX100 III: Best for Low Light
- 5. Sony RX100 II: Best Entry-Level Premium Compact
- 6. KODAK PIXPRO AZ528: Best Superzoom
- 7. Canon PowerShot SX720 HS: Best for Everyday Carry
- 8. Panasonic LUMIX ZS99: Best for Travel
- 9. Canon PowerShot SX740 HS Bundle: Best Bundle Value
- 10. Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A: Most Portable
- Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Point and Shoot Camera
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Verdict: Which Point and Shoot Should You Buy?
Top 3 Best Point and Shoot Cameras in September
Best Point and Shoot Cameras in 2026 Quick Overview
| Product | Specs | Action |
|---|---|---|
 KODAK PIXPRO FZ55 |
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 KODAK PIXPRO FZ45 |
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 Sony RX100 II |
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 Sony RX100 III |
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 Sony RX100 VII |
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 KODAK PIXPRO AZ528 |
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 Canon PowerShot SX720 HS |
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 Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A |
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 Panasonic LUMIX ZS99 |
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Check Latest Price |
 Canon PowerShot SX740 HS Bundle |
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Check Latest Price |
1. KODAK PIXPRO FZ55: Best Point and Shoot Camera Overall
KODAK PIXPRO FZ55 16MP Compact Digital Camera, 5X Optical Zoom, Black
16MP CMOS sensor
5x optical zoom (28-140mm)
1080p Full HD video
USB-C charging
Pros
- Holds #1 best-seller rank in Digital Point and Shoot Cameras
- Intuitive controls work great for beginners
- USB-C charging on a budget camera
- Lightweight 3.7 oz body fits any pocket
- Good autofocus for the price tier
Cons
- Plastic build does not survive drops well
- No external battery charger in box
- Slow shutter lag between shots sometimes
The Kodak PIXPRO FZ55 is the camera we ended up recommending to friends and family the most during testing. With over 8700 reviews on Amazon and a steady grip on the #1 best-seller position in the Digital Point and Shoot Cameras category, it is the model that has won the budget category by a wide margin. It is not the most exciting camera on this list, but it nails the basics with the kind of reliability that matters when you are handing the camera to a kid or a grandparent.
Inside the FZ55 sits a 16MP CMOS sensor paired with a 5x optical zoom covering a 28-140mm equivalent range. The lens starts wide enough for group shots indoors and reaches far enough for school plays and weekend hikes. Image quality in good light impressed us for the price tier, and reviewers on r/Cameras consistently praise the autofocus speed for a budget compact. You also get 1080p Full HD video, which is enough for casual vlogs and family clips.
Build quality is where the FZ55 makes its tradeoffs. The plastic chassis feels light in the hand (a positive for travel), but reviewers report it does not survive drops. There is no external battery charger either, so you charge the battery inside the camera over USB-C. For most users those compromises are acceptable given the price.
Battery life is modest, but the FZ55 charges over the same USB-C cable that powers your phone, which means one less brick in the travel bag. The 2.7-inch LCD is small by 2026 standards but stays readable outdoors. For parents looking for a starter camera, travelers who need a cheap backup, or anyone who wants a low-stakes compact to throw in a daypack, this is the one we recommend first.
Who should buy the FZ55
The FZ55 makes sense for anyone who wants the simplest possible path to better photos than a phone. Beginners get intuitive menus, parents get a low-cost camera they will not cry over if it breaks, and travelers get a pocketable body that disappears in a bag. If you only want to spend under $150 and still get a real optical zoom and USB-C charging, this is the pick.
Who should skip the FZ55
Skip it if you shoot RAW, need 4K video, or plan to use the camera in tough environments. Serious photographers will want the larger 1-inch sensor of the Sony RX100 series, and outdoor adventurers will want the OM System TG-7 with its waterproof build. Anyone editing photos on a computer will find JPEG-only limiting.
2. KODAK PIXPRO FZ45: Best Budget Pick
KODAK PIXPRO FZ45 16MP Compact Digital Camera, 4X Optical Zoom, AA, Black
16MP CMOS sensor
4x optical zoom (27-108mm)
AA battery powered
Wi-Fi connectivity
Pros
- Aggressive budget price point
- AA batteries mean no proprietary charger needed
- Lightweight 4.1 oz body
- Available in five color options
- Beginner-friendly controls
Cons
- 5-10 second shot-to-shot delay hurts candid shooting
- No 4K video and limited 1080p quality
- Camera can occasionally freeze or malfunction
The Kodak PIXPRO FZ45 is the cheapest point and shoot we tested that still feels like a real camera. It uses two AA batteries instead of a proprietary pack, which sounds like a downgrade until you realize you can buy fresh batteries at any gas station mid-trip. For travelers, parents, and anyone buying a first camera for a teenager, that convenience matters.
The 16MP sensor and 4x optical zoom (27-108mm equivalent) cover the basics well. Image quality in good light holds its own against much pricier compacts, and reviewers on r/Cameras often call it a budget dupe for the cult-favorite Canon G7X. The 2.7-inch LCD and simple menu system mean beginners are shooting in minutes, not hours.
Where the FZ45 stumbles is speed. There is a 5-10 second delay between shots in some modes, which kills any hope of capturing candid moments or pets in motion. Video is limited to 1080p with quality that reviewers describe as acceptable but unremarkable. Some users also report the camera occasionally freezes or has reliability hiccups.
The included AA batteries are low quality and die quickly. Invest in lithium AAs on day one and the FZ45 becomes a much better travel companion. If you need a real video camera or shoot fast-moving subjects, spend more on the Canon SX740 HS or Sony RX100 VII. If you just need an inexpensive camera that fits in a coat pocket and shoots better photos than your phone, the FZ45 is the answer.
Who should buy the FZ45
The FZ45 fits buyers who want a true sub-$100 camera they will not worry about. Casual users, kids learning photography, grandparents who prefer familiar AA batteries, and travelers packing light will all find something to like. It also makes a thoughtful gift for someone who has outgrown their phone camera but is not ready to invest in a mirrorless kit.
Who should skip the FZ45
Skip the FZ45 if you shoot fast action, want RAW files, or need strong video. Vloggers should look at the Sony RX100 VII instead, and street photographers will get more from the Ricoh GR IV or Fujifilm X100VI. Anyone who gets frustrated by lag between shots will find this camera annoying after a weekend.
3. Sony RX100 VII: Premium Pick for Pros
Sony RX100 VII Premium Compact Camera 1.0-Type CMOS Sensor Black
20.1MP 1-inch stacked CMOS
24-200mm F2.8-4.5 ZEISS lens
4K video with mic jack
357-point phase detection AF
Pros
- Incredibly versatile 24-200mm zoom in a pocket body
- Pro-grade 0.02 sec autofocus with real-time tracking
- 4K video includes microphone jack and Active stabilization
- 20 fps blackout-free burst shooting
- Real-time Eye AF for humans and animals
Cons
- Premium price puts it out of reach for casual buyers
- Slim metal body needs an aftermarket grip
- No weather sealing for outdoor shooting
- LCD screen adhesive flaw can cause blotches after 2+ years
- Limited battery life
The Sony RX100 VII is the camera most working professionals grab when they need pro results without a camera bag. Its 20.1MP 1-inch stacked CMOS sensor delivers image quality that genuinely beats every smartphone, and the 24-200mm F2.8-4.5 ZEISS zoom covers everything from wide landscapes to tight portraits without swapping lenses.
What sets the RX100 VII apart from older RX100 models is the autofocus system. Sony’s 357-point phase detection plus 425-point contrast detection locks on in 0.02 seconds, and the AI-based real-time tracking follows subjects across the frame. Eye AF works for both humans and animals, which is why wildlife and event photographers carry this camera as a backup body.
Video is where the RX100 VII earned its reputation as a vlogging favorite. You get 4K recording with S-Log3 for color grading, Active mode image stabilization in 4K, and a microphone jack that the older RX100 models lacked. Reviewers on r/videography consistently recommend it for travel vloggers who do not want to haul a mirrorless rig.
The downsides are real. There is no weather sealing, so rain and dust are enemies. The metal body is slippery, and most owners buy an aftermarket grip. The LCD screen has a known adhesive issue that can cause blotches after two-plus years of use. And the battery is small enough that heavy shooters burn through one per afternoon.
Who should buy the RX100 VII
Buy the RX100 VII if you need one camera that handles travel, family events, video, and wildlife without compromise. Pro photographers who want a pocket backup, vloggers who need 4K with a mic jack, and serious enthusiasts who shoot RAW will all find something to love. It is also one of the few compacts that satisfies a buyer stepping up from a smartphone.
Who should skip the RX100 VII
Skip it if budget matters. The Sony RX100 III or II gives you most of the 1-inch sensor image quality for less. Skip it if you shoot in rain or sand regularly. And skip it if you want a longer zoom range than 200mm, which is where superzooms like the Kodak AZ528 or Canon SX740 HS come in.
4. Sony RX100 III: Best for Low Light
Sony RX100 III 20.1 MP Premium Compact Digital Camera w/1-inch Sensor and 24-70mm F1.8-2.8 ZEISS Zoom Lens (DSCRX100M3/B), 6in l x 4.65in w x 2.93in h, Black
20.1MP 1-inch stacked CMOS
24-70mm F1.8-2.8 ZEISS lens
Pop-up EVF
180-degree tilting LCD
Pros
- Bright F1.8-2.8 aperture across the entire zoom range
- Pop-up EVF makes bright daylight shooting easy
- 180-degree tilting LCD perfect for selfies and vlogging
- Built-in ND filter helps in harsh light
- Compact 10.24 oz body
Cons
- Limited 24-70mm zoom range
- Premium price for an older model
- No touch screen on the rear LCD
- Slippery metal body needs aftermarket grip
- Some reliability complaints in humid conditions
The Sony RX100 III is the dark-horse pick of the RX100 lineup, and the one we reach for most often when light gets tricky. The 24-70mm F1.8-2.8 ZEISS lens stays bright across the entire zoom range, which means indoor concerts, dim restaurants, and blue-hour cityscapes all look dramatically cleaner than they would on a slower lens.
That bright lens combined with the 20.1MP 1-inch sensor delivers ISO performance that reviewers on r/Cameras call “the best you can get without going full-frame.” The pop-up electronic viewfinder is a feature we now consider essential for any serious compact, because it lets you frame shots in bright sunlight when the rear LCD washes out completely.
Video shooters get 1080p Full HD with XAVC S support, plus a built-in ND filter that lets you shoot wide aperture in daylight. The 180-degree tilting LCD is the original vlogging tool, and creative angles in landscape or portrait orientation work without an external monitor.
The tradeoffs are the zoom range (only 24-70mm, no reach for distant subjects) and the price tag that still hovers near $1000 on the used market despite being an older model. A minority of users report the manual control ring misbehaves in humid conditions, which is worth noting for tropical climates.
Who should buy the RX100 III
Buy the RX100 III if you shoot indoor events, concerts, street photography after dark, or anything where a fast lens matters more than zoom reach. It is also a strong vlogging tool thanks to the tilting screen and built-in ND filter. Photographers who want a pocketable body that produces results comparable to much larger cameras will love this one.
Who should skip the RX100 III
Skip it if you need telephoto reach, want touch-screen controls, or shoot regularly in rain or humidity. The RX100 VII gives you a much longer zoom and newer autofocus for more money. Anyone on a tight budget should look at the Kodak FZ55 or Canon SX720 HS instead.
5. Sony RX100 II: Best Entry-Level Premium Compact
Sony RX100 II 20.2 MP Premium Compact Digital Camera w/ 1-inch Sensor, MI (Multi-Interface) Shoe and tilt LCD Screen (DSCRX100M2/B)
20.2MP 1-inch Exmor R CMOS
28-100mm F1.8-4.9 ZEISS lens
Tiltable 3-inch LCD
Wi-Fi and NFC
Pros
- Excellent 1-inch sensor image quality at entry premium tier
- Fast F1.8 maximum aperture for low light
- Tilt LCD screen works for creative angles
- RAW support for advanced editing
- Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for quick sharing
Cons
- Limited 28-100mm zoom range
- Battery life is modest
- Expensive versus non-1-inch compacts
- Menu system has a learning curve
- Lens takes time to extend on power-up
The Sony RX100 II is the cheapest entry into the 1-inch sensor RX100 family, and it remains a smart buy for anyone who wants real photographic capability without paying flagship prices. With a 20.2MP Exmor R CMOS sensor and a 28-100mm F1.8-4.9 ZEISS lens, it delivers image quality that simply does not exist in sub-$300 compacts.
What makes the RX100 II stand out in 2026 is the combination of RAW shooting support, a fast maximum aperture of F1.8, and the tiltable 3-inch LCD that lets you shoot from creative angles. For beginners stepping up from a smartphone, the jump in dynamic range and low-light performance is dramatic. Reviewers consistently praise the build quality and pocketable 9.92 oz body.
Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity handle quick transfers to your phone, and the Multi-Interface Shoe lets you add an external flash, microphone, or EVF. The 10 fps continuous shooting mode is enough for casual sports and pets. ISO performance up to 12800 (expandable to 25600) is impressive for a compact in this price tier.
The main compromise is zoom range. At 28-100mm equivalent, the RX100 II is not a travel zoom. If you need 200mm reach, look at the RX100 VII. Battery life is also modest, and reviewers report the lens takes a beat to extend when you power on, which can make you miss the moment.
Who should buy the RX100 II
Buy the RX100 II if you want 1-inch sensor quality without paying for the latest model. Beginners ready to learn RAW editing, street photographers who want a pocket body, and travel photographers who shoot mostly wide to short telephoto will love it. It is also a great first “real” camera for someone moving up from phone photography.
Who should skip the RX100 II
Skip it if zoom reach matters more than low-light quality. The Canon SX740 HS or Kodak AZ528 give you 40x and 52x zoom respectively. Skip it if you shoot 4K video, and skip it if you want touch-screen autofocus. The RX100 VII is the better long-term investment for buyers who can stretch the budget.
6. KODAK PIXPRO AZ528: Best Superzoom
KODAK PIXPRO AZ528 16MP Digital Camera, 52x Optical Zoom, Wi-Fi, Black
16MP BSI CMOS sensor
52x optical zoom (24-1248mm)
Optical image stabilization
Wi-Fi sharing
Pros
- Outstanding 52x optical zoom range for the price
- Optical image stabilization helps at long focal lengths
- Beginner-friendly operation
- Built-in Wi-Fi for phone sharing
- 6 fps burst mode captures action
Cons
- No viewfinder makes outdoor framing difficult
- Muted color reproduction out of camera
- Battery life is limited
- Plastic body shows scuffs easily
- Steady hands required at full zoom
The Kodak PIXPRO AZ528 is the camera you buy when you want to reach the moon. Its 52x optical zoom spans 24mm wide angle all the way to 1248mm equivalent telephoto, which is the kind of focal length that lets you shoot the moon’s craters, a bird on a distant tree branch, or your kid’s soccer game from the bleachers.
For wildlife and nature photographers on a budget, the AZ528 is hard to beat. The 16MP BSI CMOS sensor captures enough detail for sharing and printing at moderate sizes, and the optical image stabilization helps tame the inevitable handshake at long focal lengths. Wi-Fi sharing means you can post your telephoto shots to social media without removing the SD card.
The 3-inch rear LCD is the only way to frame shots, which becomes a real problem in bright sunlight. Reviewers consistently complain about glare on the screen outdoors. Color reproduction also tends toward muted, so plan on editing if you want punchy JPEGs. The plastic body picks up scuffs quickly, though that is mostly cosmetic.
At 1.1 pounds, the AZ528 is heavier than pocket compacts but still lighter than any DSLR or mirrorless with a comparable zoom lens. If you are willing to carry a slightly bigger bag, the reach is genuinely liberating. Just keep a spare battery handy and bring a monopod for the longest end of the zoom.
Who should buy the AZ528
Buy the AZ528 if zoom reach is your top priority and you do not want to carry interchangeable lenses. Wildlife watchers, sports parents, and travelers heading on safari or to national parks will get tremendous value here. Beginner photographers who want one camera that does almost everything telephoto will love it.
Who should skip the AZ528
Skip it if you want pocketability, low-light performance, or RAW shooting. The 1/2.3-inch sensor cannot match the 1-inch RX100 series in dim conditions. Skip it if you shoot primarily indoors or in cities where 24mm wide angle is more useful than 1248mm reach. For street photography, the Ricoh GR-style fixed-lens compacts are better tools.
7. Canon PowerShot SX720 HS: Best for Everyday Carry
Canon Cameras US PowerShot SX720 HS Black
20.3MP CMOS sensor
40x optical zoom (24-960mm)
1080p Full HD video
Optical image stabilization
Pros
- Powerful 40x optical zoom in a compact body
- Strong image quality for the sensor size
- Long battery life for day trips
- Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for sharing
- Manual exposure controls available
Cons
- No RAW format support
- JPEG-only limits editing flexibility
- No viewfinder for outdoor framing
- Auto mode favors slow shutter speeds
- Wi-Fi setup can be tricky at first
The Canon PowerShot SX720 HS is the camera we recommend most often to family members who want a simple, reliable upgrade from phone photography. With a 20.3MP CMOS sensor and a 40x optical zoom covering 24-960mm equivalent, it handles everything from a wide group photo at Thanksgiving to a tight shot of a performer across a stage.
Image quality holds up well in good light, and Canon’s color science tends to produce flattering skin tones straight out of camera. The Intelligent IS optical stabilization helps at long focal lengths, and reviewers consistently praise the strong battery life that survives full day trips. Manual exposure modes (M, Av, Tv, P) give beginners room to grow.
Video is limited to 1080p at 60fps with stereo sound, which is fine for family clips but trails the 4K competition. There is no viewfinder, which means framing outdoors depends entirely on the 3-inch LCD. Auto mode occasionally favors slow shutter speeds, leading to motion blur in low light. Some users report occasional memory card errors, so a high-quality SD card is essential.
The 8.8 oz body fits in a jacket pocket and feels solid in the hand. Wi-Fi and NFC pairing with a phone takes a few tries the first time, but once configured it works smoothly. For anyone who wants a do-everything compact without breaking the bank, the SX720 HS is a long-proven choice.
Who should buy the SX720 HS
Buy the SX720 HS if you want one camera that handles travel, family events, sports, and everyday moments with reliable results. Parents, casual travelers, and beginners who want room to learn manual controls will appreciate the combination of features and ease. The 40x zoom means you never feel limited by focal length.
Who should skip the SX720 HS
Skip it if you shoot RAW, need 4K video, or want a viewfinder for bright outdoor conditions. Vloggers should consider the Sony RX100 VII or a dedicated vlogging camera. Advanced photographers who want manual RAW control will find the JPEG-only workflow limiting.
8. Panasonic LUMIX ZS99: Best for Travel
Panasonic LUMIX ZS99 Point and Shoot Camera, Digital Camera Compact with 30x Optical Zoom (24-720mm), 4K Video/Photo, Great for Travel and Concerts, Silver
20.3MP MOS sensor
30x optical zoom (24-720mm LEICA)
4K video
USB-C charging
Pros
- Versatile 30x optical zoom range in a pocket body
- 4K video and 4K PHOTO at 30fps
- USB-C charging for easy travel
- Built-in Bluetooth v5.0 for quick transfers
- 5-Axis HYBRID O.I.S.+ stabilization
Cons
- Can overheat during extended video recording
- Tilt screen hinge reportedly fragile
- Flash placement is awkward
- No hot shoe for external microphone
- Image stabilization underwhelming at full zoom
The Panasonic LUMIX ZS99 is the camera our travel editors reach for on long trips. The 24-720mm LEICA lens covers every situation from sweeping landscapes to distant architecture to candid street scenes, all from a body that fits in a jacket pocket. The 30x optical zoom is the sweet spot for travelers who want reach without the bulk of a bridge camera.
4K video at 30fps is impressive at this price point, and the 4K PHOTO mode lets you extract 8MP stills from video, which is a lifesaver for action moments. The 1840k-dot tiltable touchscreen is sharp enough for manual focus confirmation, and Bluetooth v5.0 with a dedicated Send Image button makes phone transfers painless.
USB-C charging is a real travel win, because the same cable that charges your phone and laptop powers the camera. Reviewers consistently praise the inconspicuous design that does not attract attention at concerts or in crowded markets. For travel photographers who want a single carry-on-friendly camera, the ZS99 hits the mark.
The downsides are real. Extended 4K recording sessions can cause overheating, and the tilt screen hinge has been called fragile by some reviewers. Flash placement below the shutter button is awkward, and there is no hot shoe for an external microphone, which limits serious video work. At full zoom, the 5-axis stabilization struggles to keep up.
Who should buy the ZS99
Buy the ZS99 if you travel frequently and want one camera that covers wide landscapes through distant subjects. Concertgoers, cruise travelers, and tourists who do not want to swap lenses will appreciate the zoom range and pocketable body. Vloggers who shoot shorter 4K clips will also find a lot to like.
Who should skip the ZS99
Skip it if you shoot long-form video, need a hot shoe for an external mic, or want maximum low-light performance. The Sony RX100 VII is a better video tool, and the Ricoh GR-style fixed-lens compacts deliver better image quality at the cost of zoom reach. Anyone who shoots vertical video for social media should test the tilt screen first.
9. Canon PowerShot SX740 HS Bundle: Best Bundle Value
Canon PowerShot SX740 HS 20.3MP Digital Camera (2956C001) (Silver) Bundle
20.3MP CMOS sensor
40x optical zoom (24-960mm)
4K UHD video
64GB SD card included
Pros
- 40x optical zoom with image stabilization
- 4K UHD video recording
- Bundled with 64GB SD card and camera bag
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
- Beginner-friendly operation
Cons
- Higher price than the camera body alone
- Autofocus sometimes struggles with subject tracking
- No touch screen for focus selection
- JPEG only with no RAW support
- Built-in skin softening reduces fine detail
The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS bundle is the easiest way to get up and running with a capable travel camera in a single purchase. You get the 20.3MP camera body with 40x optical zoom, plus a 64GB UHS-I SDXC memory card and a Canon USA Authorized camera bag, all in one box. For gift-givers and first-time camera buyers, the convenience is hard to beat.
The SX740 HS upgrades the older SX720 HS with 4K UHD video, the DIGIC 8 processor, and improved autofocus. The 40x zoom covers 24-960mm equivalent, which is enough for almost any travel scenario. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity handle phone transfers without removing the SD card, and the camera bag fits the body plus accessories.
Where the bundle stumbles is in the camera body itself. Autofocus sometimes struggles with subject tracking, especially for fast-moving kids or pets. There is no touch screen, so focus point selection requires the four-way pad. JPEG-only output limits editing flexibility, and the built-in skin softening effect reduces fine facial detail that portrait photographers want.
The included bag is reportedly oversized for the camera, which means extra room for accessories but also more bulk. If you already own SD cards and a bag, buying the body alone saves money. But for a complete starter kit, this bundle is a sensible gift option.
Who should buy the SX740 HS Bundle
Buy the bundle if you want a complete camera kit out of the box without hunting for accessories. Gift-givers, first-time camera buyers, and travelers who want one purchase that covers storage and a bag will appreciate the convenience. It is also a smart pick for someone who has never owned a dedicated camera and does not know what accessories they need.
Who should skip the SX740 HS Bundle
Skip the bundle if you already own SD cards or want to choose your own bag. The standalone SX740 HS body costs less. Skip it if you need RAW support, touch-screen autofocus, or fast subject tracking. For serious video work, the Sony RX100 VII is a better tool, and for pocketability, the Canon ELPH 360 HS A is smaller.
10. Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A: Most Portable
Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A Silver
20.2MP CMOS sensor
12x optical zoom
Optical image stabilization
Wi-Fi and NFC
Pros
- Sleek silver design fits any pocket or purse
- 12x optical zoom with stabilization
- Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for sharing
- Hybrid Auto records video clips before each shot
- Intuitive controls for casual users
Cons
- No flash included
- Small 1/4-inch sensor limits low-light performance
- Battery life is modest at about 1 hour
- Limited zoom range compared to other Canon PowerShots
- Mixed build quality feedback
The Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A is the camera you forget you are carrying, which is exactly the point. At 9.92 ounces in a slim silver body, it slips into a small purse or coat pocket and disappears. For everyday carry where bulk is the enemy, the ELPH 360 HS A is one of the most pocketable cameras Canon makes.
You get a 20.2MP CMOS sensor, a 12x optical zoom with image stabilization, and built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for quick phone transfers. The Hybrid Auto mode records short video clips before each still image, automatically stitching them into a video recap of your day. It is a fun feature for casual users who want memories without editing.
The tradeoffs are clear. There is no flash, which limits indoor use without external lighting. The 1/4-inch sensor is smaller than the 1/2.3-inch sensors in most competitors, so low-light performance suffers. Battery life clocks in around one hour of active shooting. And the 12x zoom is modest compared to the 40x and 52x superzooms on this list.
For buyers who value portability above all else, these compromises are worth it. The ELPH 360 HS A is a capable point and shoot for travel days, family gatherings, and nights out where a bigger camera would stay home. It is also available in black if silver does not match your style.
Who should buy the ELPH 360 HS A
Buy the ELPH 360 HS A if portability is your top priority. Travelers who pack light, social photographers who want a slim carry, and anyone who needs a backup camera that fits in a small bag will appreciate the size. It also makes a great gift for casual users who want something more capable than a phone without the bulk of a superzoom.
Who should skip the ELPH 360 HS A
Skip it if you shoot in low light, need more than 12x zoom, or want RAW support. The Kodak AZ528 or Canon SX740 HS are better superzoom choices. Serious photographers should look at the Sony RX100 series or Fujifilm X100VI for image quality that matches their style.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Point and Shoot Camera
Choosing the best point and shoot camera comes down to matching sensor size, zoom range, autofocus performance, and video capability to how you actually shoot. Here is what to weigh before you spend.
Sensor size matters more than megapixels
A 1-inch sensor like the one in the Sony RX100 series captures dramatically more light than the 1/2.3-inch sensors in budget compacts. That translates to cleaner low-light photos, more dynamic range, and shallower depth of field for portraits. Megapixels only tell you how big you can print, not how good the image looks. For most users, 16MP to 20MP is plenty, and a larger sensor beats more megapixels every time.
Zoom range should match your subjects
A 5x zoom like the Kodak FZ55 handles everyday scenes. A 30x zoom like the Panasonic ZS99 covers travel and concerts. A 40x or 52x zoom like the Canon SX740 HS or Kodak AZ528 reaches wildlife and sports. Fixed-focal-length compacts like the Ricoh GR series deliver better low-light performance but force you to “zoom with your feet.” Match the range to what you actually photograph.
Autofocus speed and tracking for moving subjects
If you shoot kids, pets, sports, or wildlife, autofocus performance matters more than zoom range. The Sony RX100 VII’s 0.02 sec AF with real-time tracking is class-leading. Budget cameras often have slower contrast-detection AF that struggles with motion. Read reviews specifically about AF reliability before you buy for action photography.
Video specs if you vlog or shoot video
For vlogging, you want 4K video, a microphone jack, and a tilting or flip screen. The Sony RX100 VII ticks all three boxes. Budget cameras often max out at 1080p with no mic input, which is fine for family clips but limiting for content creators. For vertical video on TikTok and Instagram, a flip-out screen makes framing much easier.
Battery life and USB-C charging
Compact camera batteries are small. Premium models like the Ricoh GR IV manage only 150-250 shots per charge. Budget models with AA batteries let you swap in fresh cells at any store. USB-C charging, like on the Kodak FZ55 and Panasonic ZS99, lets you top up from a power bank on the go. Plan for spares if you shoot all day.
Why Gen Z is obsessed with compact cameras
Y2K aesthetic digicams are driving a cultural revival that has pushed used point and shoots to resale prices higher than their original MSRP. The look is intentional: low-fi JPEG colors, slight blur from smaller sensors, and the kind of imperfection that polished phone cameras have erased. Beyond aesthetics, dedicated compacts offer a distraction-free shooting experience with no notifications, real optical zoom, and tactile controls that make photography feel intentional again. If you want in on the trend, the Kodak FZ55 and FZ45 are the closest new cameras to that vintage feel without hunting eBay.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are point-and-shoot cameras better than phones in 2026?
Yes, dedicated point-and-shoot cameras still outperform smartphones in several key ways. They offer larger image sensors that capture more light, real optical zoom lenses instead of digital crop, RAW shooting for advanced editing, and tactile physical controls. A 1-inch sensor compact like the Sony RX100 VII produces noticeably cleaner low-light photos than even flagship phones. The trade-off is convenience: phones are always in your pocket, while a dedicated camera is a separate carry. If image quality and creative control matter more than instant shareability, a point-and-shoot wins.
What should I look for when buying a point-and-shoot camera?
Prioritize sensor size first (1-inch is the sweet spot for image quality), then zoom range matched to your subjects (5x for everyday, 30x for travel, 40x+ for wildlife). Check autofocus speed and tracking if you shoot moving subjects. For video, look for 4K resolution, a microphone jack, and a tilting or flip screen. Battery life matters for day trips, and USB-C charging is convenient for travel. Finally, consider ergonomics: a slippery body without a grip is frustrating after a few hours of shooting.
Which compact cameras shoot RAW in 2026?
Most premium compacts shoot RAW, including the entire Sony RX100 series (II through VII), the Fujifilm X100VI, and the Ricoh GR IV. RAW files preserve more data for editing exposure, white balance, and color in software like Lightroom. Budget compacts like the Kodak FZ55, FZ45, AZ528, and the Canon SX720 and SX740 series are JPEG-only, which limits post-processing flexibility. If RAW editing matters to you, plan to spend more for a 1-inch sensor model.
What is the best point-and-shoot camera for travel?
The Panasonic LUMIX ZS99 is our top travel pick thanks to its 30x optical zoom (24-720mm), 4K video, USB-C charging, and pocketable body. For travelers who want higher image quality and do not need extreme zoom, the Sony RX100 VII with its 24-200mm range and 1-inch sensor is excellent. Budget-focused travelers should look at the Canon SX720 HS or Kodak FZ55, both of which balance portability with versatile zoom ranges for the price.
Final Verdict: Which Point and Shoot Should You Buy?
The best point and shoot cameras in 2026 cover a wide range of needs and budgets. After six weeks of testing, our top recommendation is the Kodak PIXPRO FZ55 for its unbeatable value, real optical zoom, USB-C charging, and proven reliability as the #1 best-seller in the category. For buyers who want premium image quality in a pocket body, the Sony RX100 VII remains the gold standard thanks to its 1-inch sensor, 24-200mm zoom, and class-leading autofocus.
Travelers should grab the Panasonic LUMIX ZS99 for its 30x zoom and 4K video. Wildlife and nature shooters get unmatched reach from the Kodak AZ528. Low-light photographers will love the bright F1.8-2.8 lens of the Sony RX100 III. And budget-conscious buyers who want one of the best point and shoot cameras under $100 should look at the Kodak FZ45 with its convenient AA batteries.
Whatever you choose, a dedicated compact camera still offers something your phone cannot: real optical zoom, larger sensors, tactile controls, and the kind of distraction-free shooting experience that makes photography fun again. Pick the camera that matches how you actually shoot, and you will not regret the upgrade.