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With so many types of digital camera models on the market, choosing just one can be a difficult task. If you’re looking for top-level performance, a digital SLR camera is the way to go. This doesn’t mean you have to lug around a professional kit if you’re looking for great images, however. These smaller, pocket size point-and-shoots deliver high quality photos right from the palm of your hand.
Canon PowerShot Elph 330 HS
This camera is comparable to the Canon PowerShot A1400, but the Elph makes our list because its 3-inch LCD viewing screen trumps the A1400’s 2.7-inch one.
Pros:
• 10x optical zoom with 12.1-megapixel resolution
• Wi-Fi enabled for easy sharing to networking sites (includes Canon Gateway software)
• Full 1080 HD video capability
• Good battery life (roughly 220 still images on one charge)
Cons:
• Slide switch toggles between auto and enhanced auto instead of manual function
• Buttons are small and set into camera body, making it difficult to press
• Digital noise in low-light situations
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Panasonic Lumix DMC–ZS30
With a Leica lens, this Lumix powerhouse performs well on the go, with super high imaging capability. Panasonic’s speed focusing capabilities mean performance that doesn’t lag or delay.
Pros:
• 20x optical zoom with 18.1-megapixel resolution
• 3” LCD touch screen display
• Full 1080 HD video capability
• On-board GPS and Wi-Fi enabled
• Optional image stabilization setting
Cons:
• Touch screen can be difficult to operate with larger fingers
• No external battery charger
• Video records in ACVHD, will need software to convert it to mp4 format
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Sony Cyber-shot DSC WX300
This is the lightest and smallest point-and-shoot you can get on the market today, but you don’t necessarily pay more for it. This is our top choice on this list for travel cameras.
Pros:
• 20x optical zoom and 40x digital zoom with 18-megapixel resolution
• Full 1080 HD video capability
• Great image stabilization
• Wi-Fi enabled (requires Sony PlayMemories app)
• Creative feature to blur background
Cons:
• It’s so light the zoom lens can be unwieldy to operate at full potential
• Limited aperture—works best outside in well-lit conditions
• Does not shoot in RAW
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Olympus VR–340
This is the most inexpensive model in its class. You’ll trade some of the more advanced features of comparable cameras for the lower price tag, but you won’t sacrifice image quality.
Pros:
• 10x optical zoom with 16-megapixel resolution
• Intuitive menus make it easy to change manual features (such as white balance and ISO)
• Extensive built-in creative features and filters
• Sturdy, all-metal body
Cons:
• Only shoots in 720p HD video
• Shutter lags in low-light or cloudy situations
• Flash photography not always true to color
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Fujifilm XF1
The most unique and stylish point-and-shoot on the market, this Fujifilm model keeps you looking good while creating amazing photos.
Pros:
• Fast 1.8 aperture setting, great for low-light photography
• 12-megapixel, large 2/3-inch CMOS sensor
• 3-inch super clear LCD viewing screen
• Full 1080 HD video capability
• Can create custom function settings
• Possible to shoot in RAW
Cons:
• Basic operations are not intuitive
• No option to add external flash
• When zoomed in, lens is a bit slow
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