The Best Digital Point & Shoot Cameras under $550
Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX400V
★ Top Choice
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From $448
Features
- 4K quality still image output via HDMI2.
- Motion Shot Video traces subject movement.
- Clear Image Zoom ZEISS Lens. Panorama (Recording): Intelligent Sweep Panorama (supports 360 format).
- 20.4MP Exmor R CMOS Sensor for superb low light images.
- Enhance features w/ downloadable camera apps.
- Keep your subject in focus with Lock-On AF. Screen type: 7.5cm (3.0 type)(4:3) / 921,600 dots / Xtra Fine / TFT LCD.
- Simple connectivity to smartphones via Wi-Fi w/NFC3.
- Map your images with GPS tagged photos.Focus Range (From the Front of the Lens):0.39 in - Infinity (W), 7.87 ft - Infinity (T).
Pros
- ⊕ Long zoom lens.
- ⊕ High-quality build.
- ⊕ Wi-Fi, tilting screen.
Cons
- ⊖ Can't shoot raw.
- ⊖ Low-res viewfinder.
- ⊖ Can't shoot in raw.
- ⊖ Low-resolution EVF.
Specs
- Viewfinder: EVF.
- Maximum continuous shooting speed: 10fps.
- Resolution: 20.3MP.
- User level: Beginner.
- Type: Bridge camera.
- Movies: Full HD 1080p.
- Sensor size: 1/2.3-inch CMOS.
- Lens: 24-1200mm f/2.8-6.3.
- Screen type: 3.0-inch tilting-angle display, 922,000 dots.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX99
♥ Runner Up
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From $473
Features
- ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* 24-720mm High Magnification Zoom and High Image Quality Lens.
- Stunning 4K video with full pixel readout and no pixel binning.
- Versatile operability and shooting functions including Eye AF, EVF, Control Ring, Touch Focus/Touch shutter, 180°Tiltable LCD and more.
- Upgraded BIONZ X image processing engine and newly implemented front-end LSI ensure outstanding image quality.
Pros
- ⊕ 4K video.
- ⊕ Pop-up EVF.
- ⊕ Raw support.
- ⊕ EVF and flash.
- ⊕ 30x zoom range.
Cons
- ⊖ Cramped EVF.
- ⊖ Unattractive flare.
- ⊖ Shaky handheld video.
Best Compact
The 9 Best Bridge Cameras of 2020 - lifewire.com
Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX10
Best Overall
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From $497.99
Features
- POINT-AND-SHOOT CAMERA: Large, 1-inch 20.1-megapixel MOS sensor plus 3X zoom LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMILUX lens (24-72mm) and POWER O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) delivers brighter, more colorful photos with fewer image artifacts.
- TILTING SELFIE DISPLAY: Rear touch-enabled 3-inch LCD display (1040K dots) tilts upward 180 degree for easy selfie photos; Temperature: 23 oC (73.4 oF) / Humidity: 50%RH when monitor is on.
- 4K VIDEO CAPTURE: 4K QFHD video recording (3840 x 2160), plus exclusive LUMIX 4K PHOTO and 4K Post Focus with internal Focus Stacking allows you to record photos up to 30fps and set your desired focus points after the photo has been taken.
- USB CHARGING AND WI-FI CONNECTIVITY: Enjoy travel ready technologies like USB charging and Wi-Fi connectivity to your mobile device; micro-HDMI type D (*3) and USB 2.0 micro-B provide additional connectivity to your favorite devices.
- LENS-MOUNTED CONTROL RING: Manual lens-mounted control ring brings DSLR-like exposure control to a compact point-and-shoot camera body. Battery life (Approx.)- 260 images (CIPA Standard) (*1).
Pros
- ⊕ Records video at 4K resolution.
Cons
- ⊖ Low zoom range of 3x.
Best Overall
The 9 Best Panasonic Cameras of 2020 - lifewire.com
Best Point and Shoot
The 7 Best Articulated (Swivel) LCD Cameras of 2020 - lifewire.com
Mentioned
Best LUMIX Cameras - bestreviews.com
Canon PowerShot SX70 HS
Best for Ultra Zoom Power
BUY NOW
From $549
Features
- EOS-like User Interface Design.
- 0.39-Type Approx. 2.36-million dot, OLED EVF.
- Viewfinder Type: Electronic Viewfinder.
- Powerful 65x optical zoom.
- Zoom Framing Assist.
- High-speed Continuous Shooting at up to 10 fps.
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for quick and easy sharing.LCD Pixels:Approx. 920,000 dots.
- Lens Type: Wide Angle.
- 20.3 Megapixel* CMOS sensor and DIGIC 8 image processor.
- 4K video and 4K time-lapse movie.
- Image Stabilization of up to 5 stops for excellent performance.
Pros
- ⊕ Wi-Fi.
- ⊕ 10fps bursts.
- ⊕ 65x zoom range.
- ⊕ 65x zoom lens.
- ⊕ Excellent EVF.
Cons
- ⊖ Not great in dim light.
- ⊖ Lacks touchscreen control.
- ⊖ 4K video is slightly cropped.
- ⊖ Build quality could be better.
- ⊖ 4K not available in all modes.
Specs
- Movies: 4K.
- Viewfinder: EVF.
- Maximum continuous shooting rate: 10fps.
- User level: Beginner/enthusiast.
- Sensor: 1/2.3-inch CMOS, 20.3MP.
- Lens: 21-1365mm-equivalent, f/3.4-6.5.
- Monitor: 3-inch articulating, 922,000 dots.
Best for Ultra Zoom Power
The Best Digital Cameras for 2020 - pcmag.com
Best for Families and Enthusiasts
The Best Bridge Cameras for 2020 - pcmag.com
Best Design
The 8 Best Canon Cameras of 2020 - lifewire.com