Combined with larger batteries and expandable storage space, point-and-shoot cameras are perfect for capturing images. Moreover, they don't eat up too much space compared to the average mobile device. They also feature zoom lenses, wide angle capture and aperture adjustments, which give them an edge over the cameras in today's high-end smartphones.
Here are the best point-and-shoot cameras that are available on the market today.
Sony Cyber-Shot RX100 III ($798 on Amazon). The Sony Cyber-Shot RX100 III is a selfie-ready camera that delivers versatile shooting in XAVC S, AVCHD and MP4 formats. Other features include a 1-inch 20.1MP Exmor R sensor, F1.8 Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lens, built-in SVGA OLED viewfinder, a 3-inch LCD display and built-in ND filter. It also has Wi-Fi w/ NFC for easy connectivity to smartphones.
Fujifilm X100S ($862 on Amazon). The Fujifilm X100S has fixed 23mm F2 lens and SLR-sized APS-C sensor, which allows it to deliver outstanding image quality. It's also built with the "traditional" dial-based handling and an optical/electronic "hybrid" viewfinder reminiscent of the rangefinder types of cameras. Other features include 16.3MP X-Trans CMOS sensor, EXR Processor II, upgraded 2.35M dot display, an onscreen "Q" menu, and an enhanced tabbed menu system.
Samsung Galaxy Camera 2 ($313 on Amazon). This camera from Samsung has a huge 4.8-inch display and uses the familiar 21 x zoom lens and image sensor of the original Galaxy Camera. It can run Instagram and other Android apps. Connectivity options include Wi-Fi, NFC and Bluetooth. An absolute touch-screen device, its physical controls only include the Power button, shutter button, flash release and the zoom rocker. It also has voice recognition, which means that saying the words "cheese" or "shoot" can make it start taking a photo.
Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark II ($799 on Amazon). While this camera debuted in 2012, there's no doubt that its features continue to make it one of the most advanced point-and-shoot cameras to ever hit the market. It is one of the first semi-pocketable cameras that rivaled those with interchangeable lens in terms of delivering quality images. One of its unique features is its potential to perform better in low light areas.
Olympus Stylus 1 ($699 on Amazon). The Stylus 1 is a sleek, handy camera that boasts the company's acclaimed OM-D Series. It makes a perfect upgrade from one's old point-and-shoot device or a smart alternative to a full-packed DSLR system. It also features high-definition EVF, simplified Wi-Fi connectivity, and f2.8 i.ZUIKO lens.
Nikon Coolpix S9700 ($278 on Amazon). The Nikon Coolpix S9700 is a top-of-the-line model from the Style series. It features FullHD video, 30x optical zoom, back-illuminated 16MP CMOS sensor and 921,000 dot screen. It's available in black, white and red.
Canon PowerShot G7 X ($699 on Amazon). Built with a 1-inch 20.2 million pixel sensor and high-quality features, the G7X is no doubt a strong competitor against the RX100 II of Sony. It also has a touchscreen, lens control ring and large aperture.
Panasonic Lumix TZ40 ($265 in Amazon). The Panasonic Lumix TZ40 is a "travel" compact camera that's great for those who are looking for a compact point-and-shoot camera with a more advanced feature compared to a smartphone. It also features a large optical zoom (24-480mm), 1080p Full HD video capture, ISO 100-64000, 3-inch 920k-dot TFT touchscreen and 18.1MP high-sensitivity MOS sensor.
