The rebirth of compact cameras

Small but mighty, what more could you ask for?

A few years ago, it was predicted that compact cameras were doomed to extinction, supplanted by the multiple cameras of cell phones. After all, we carry a cell phone more often than a camera, making cell phone photography more practical in everyday life. Yet compact cameras are enjoying a renaissance and are more popular than ever! That's why we've put together a list of our favorite cameras to guide you through the process ;)

High-end cameras

We'll start with high-end cameras, because these are often the ones that will have the most differences from a cell phone camera. Yes, phones now have manual controls and the ability to shoot in RAW, but the experience is different when you're holding a “real” camera like the Canon G7X III or Sony RX100 VII, with a larger sensor than in more entry-level phones or compacts, and a very respectable zoom that offers a completely different effect and great versatility. These cameras are often packed with great features that give you 100% control over the results of your photos and videos, without having them retouched by an AI before you've even had a chance to see them in their natural state. In the case of the Sony RX100 VII, we even have access to a superb little retractable electronic viewfinder, perfect for shooting on a sunny day when you can't see your screen very well (you all know what I'm talking about :p).

That said, we can't forget the Sony ZV-1 and Sony ZV-1 II, two superb cameras that we don't tend to think of when we talk about high-end compacts! Aimed primarily at vloggers, they feature a super-intuitive video mode that's more advanced than you'd expect from such a small camera, but they're also excellent for photography, with presets that let you choose a look and get it right on the shoot, without the headache. They also make a great alternative to the aforementioned Canon G7X III, which is so popular we can't even stock it on our shelves, or the Sony RX100 VII, which we have exceptionally in stock at the moment but have already had to wait six months to get back!

(For geeks like us, we're talking about a sensor similar in size to that of the Canon G7X III, and almost identical resolution. The biggest difference between the Sony ZV-1, Sony ZV-1 II and Canon G7X III is in their focal lengths. We're talking about an equivalent of 24-70mm on the ZV-1, 18-50mm on the ZV-1 II and 24-100mm on the G7X III. For the rest, it's very similar, especially if you want to use the camera for vlogging ;-)

Waterproof cameras

I don't know about you, but if I'm planning to take pictures at the beach or near a pool (or even in one!), I certainly won't be taking my $1500 phone, which is water and dust resistant, but contains a lot of stuff I wouldn't want to lose if it got wet! It's in such a situation that I'd rather use a waterproof camera like the Pentax WG-1000 (the most affordable), the Pentax WG-90 (with lights around the lens for macro shooting) or the OM System Tough TG-7 (the toughest of the three).

In either case, you get a device that can withstand water, dust, drops and even frost (given recent temperatures, I must admit that this last resistance is not too much to ask!) We have all three in stock, so don't hesitate to come and try them out in person to better inform your choice.

Powerful zoom cameras

I wouldn't exactly describe them as compact, in the sense that they certainly won't fit in a coat pocket, but powerful zoom cameras are certainly compact in the sense that they're extremely portable for the full focal range they offer. Perfect for travel, or simply for those who prefer to be ready for any occasion, they are versatile, and some can even photograph the rings of Saturn!

... or, closer to home, the craters of the Moon or the beautiful little bird that always lands in the tree at the far end of the field, but runs away as soon as you try to see what species it is. Most of them also allow you to take macro photos at very, very close range!

The models we have all have their own specific advantages. For example, the Lumix FZ80D is the most affordable, but still has a 60x zoom and an 18mpx sensor, which is more than enough for most users. The Canon SX70 HS, meanwhile, has a 65x zoom and a 20mpx sensor for a slightly higher price. The Nikon P950 and its big brother, the Nikon P1100 (this one's brand new, not yet available, but officially announced!) are bulkier, but we're talking about 83x and 125x zoom respectively, which is huge. The Lumix FZ1000 II, on the other hand, is still big and has “only” 16x zoom, but has a much larger sensor, the same size as the high-end cameras mentioned above, offering superior image quality. Either way, you get a versatile, all-in-one camera capable of producing some truly impressive shots!

Cameras with prime lens

Ah, these little wonders! I'm a bit biased here, I won't hide it, but I'll try to keep this section objective ;) We might get a bit nerdier here, I warn you in advance!

Prime lens compacts offer a very different experience from the other cameras on our list. They're not about powerful zoom or specifically about vlogging. They're not necessarily waterproof, and they're not necessarily that compact! However, they do offer an incredible photographic experience, closer to reflex cameras and mirrorless, and are aimed at the photographer who wants a camera that offers the same image quality as his or her “real” camera, but without the bulk that comes with all that.

For example, the Fujifilm X100VI offers a hybrid optical/electronic viewfinder, a large 40mpx APS-C sensor, 6 stops of image stabilization, and a superb 23mm f/2 lens. It also comes with Fujifilm's film simulations, renowned for their beautiful, nostalgic colors, reminiscent of film photography.

The Ricoh GR III, meanwhile, has more like 24mpx, again with an APS-C sensor. It also has stabilization and a nice 18.3mm f/2.8 lens, but doesn't come with a viewfinder. On the upside, it's smaller and, above all, a lot cheaper!

Entry-level compact cameras

And if you're looking for nothing more than a better zoom than what's on your phone, while keeping the weight and price down, entry-level compacts are the way to go! They're honestly hard to come by at the moment, as they're in extremely high demand, but the wait will be worth it ;) The Canon SX740 HS gives you a 40x optical zoom in a camera that slips easily into a coat pocket, while the Lumix ZS99 (newly arrived in stores) has more of a 30x zoom, but also a touch screen that makes it easy to select where you want the focus. In short, each has its strengths!

Wow, was that a lot of info! We understand if we didn't answer all your questions, but the text would have been way too long otherwise! If you'd like more information on any of the devices mentioned, please consider contacting our advisors, who can guide you by phone, email, social media or in person. I guarantee they'll be happy to talk photos with you!