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The Best Point-and-Shoot Cameras for 2023

Discover the best point-and-shoot cameras of 2023, combining convenience and quality for photography enthusiasts. Capture moments effortlessly.

CR Staff
By Updated: 2024, Jan 31

Introduction to Point-and-Shoot Cameras

In the world of photography, not everyone wants to lug around a heavy and bulky DSLR camera. Sometimes, you just want a compact and convenient camera that you can easily slip into your pocket or bag. That’s where point-and-shoot cameras come in. These compact cameras are designed to be user-friendly, allowing you to capture high-quality images with minimal effort. Whether you’re a beginner looking to dip your toes into photography or a seasoned pro in need of a backup camera, the best point-and-shoot cameras can be the perfect choice.

The Best Point-and-Shoot Cameras for 2023
Best Point-and-Shoot Cameras

Benefits of Using Point-and-Shoot Cameras

One of the main advantages of point-and-shoot cameras is their simplicity. They are designed to be easy to use, with automatic settings that do all the work for you. This makes them ideal for casual photographers who want to capture memories without getting bogged down by technical details. Additionally, point-and-shoot cameras are incredibly portable. Their compact size means you can take them anywhere without feeling weighed down. They are perfect for travel photography or spontaneous moments that you want to capture on the go.

Another benefit of point-and-shoot cameras is their versatility. While they may not offer the same level of customization as DSLRs, they still have a range of useful features. Many point-and-shoot cameras come with zoom lenses, image stabilization, and built-in flash, allowing you to capture a variety of subjects in different lighting conditions. Some models even offer advanced features like Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to instantly share your photos with friends and family.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Point-and-Shoot Camera

When it comes to choosing the best point-and-shoot camera for your needs, there are a few key factors to consider. First and foremost, you should think about your budget. Point-and-shoot cameras can range in price from budget-friendly options to high-end models with advanced features. Determine how much you’re willing to spend and look for cameras within your price range.

Next, consider the camera’s image quality. Look for a camera with a high megapixel count, as this will ensure that your photos have plenty of detail. Additionally, pay attention to the camera’s sensor size. Larger sensors generally produce better image quality, especially in low-light conditions.

Other important factors to consider include the camera’s zoom range, battery life, and ease of use. Think about what features are most important to you and prioritize accordingly. Reading reviews and comparing different models can also help you make an informed decision.


Quick Summary

Image Product Description Price
1
Olympus Tough TG-6
Capture adventure with the rugged Olympus Tough TG-6, built for tough conditions.
2
Kodak Ektar H35
Experience classic photography with the Kodak Ektar H35 film camera.
3
Ricoh GR IIIx
Elevate your street photography game with the compact and powerful Ricoh GR IIIx.
4
Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo
Instantly print and share memories with the Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo.
5
Fujifilm X100V
Fujifilm X100V combines style and performance for stunning photography.
6
Sony RX100 VII
Capture pro-quality photos with the Sony RX100 VII, the ultimate compact camera.
7
Sony ZV-1
Vlogging made easy with the Sony ZV-1, packed with features for content creators.
8
Ricoh GR III
Experience the excellence of street photography with the Ricoh GR III.

The Research

How we tested?

To determine the best point-and-shoot cameras for 2023, we conducted extensive tests and evaluations. Our team of photography experts rigorously examined each camera’s image quality, performance, features, and overall user experience. We tested the cameras in various shooting conditions, including low light, action, and portrait photography. We also evaluated the camera’s ease of use, considering factors such as the menu navigation, button placement, and overall ergonomics. Additionally, we gathered feedback from photographers of different skill levels to gauge their experiences with the cameras. Their input helped us understand how the cameras performed in real-world scenarios and how they met the needs of different users. Combining all these factors, we were able to identify the top picks for the best point-and-shoot cameras for 2023.

How we picked?

After extensive testing and evaluation, we carefully analyzed the results to determine our top picks. We considered factors such as image quality, performance, features, and value for money. We also took into account user feedback and expert opinions to ensure that our selections were well-rounded and catered to different photography needs. Our aim was to provide a comprehensive list of the best point-and-shoot cameras in 2023, covering a range of budgets and preferences. We believe that our top picks represent the cream of the crop in terms of image quality, ease of use, and overall performance.

Who should get this?

Point-and-shoot cameras are perfect for anyone who wants a compact and convenient camera without the hassle of a bulky DSLR. Whether you’re a beginner photographer, a casual shooter, or a seasoned pro in need of a backup camera, a point-and-shoot camera can be a great addition to your gear. These cameras are designed to be user-friendly and portable, allowing you to capture high-quality images with ease. So, if you value convenience, simplicity, and portability, a point-and-shoot camera is definitely worth considering.

Best Point-and-Shoot Cameras – Product Review

Olympus Tough TG-6

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  • What We Like?

    The Olympus Tough TG-6 is a rugged point-and-shoot camera that is built to withstand the elements. It is waterproof, shockproof, crushproof, freezeproof, and dustproof, making it the perfect companion for outdoor adventures. The camera features a 12-megapixel sensor, a fast f/2.0 lens, and advanced image stabilization, ensuring sharp and vibrant photos even in challenging conditions. The TG-6 also comes with a variety of shooting modes, including underwater modes and microscope modes, allowing you to explore different photography genres.

  • What We Don’t Like?

    One downside of the Olympus Tough TG-6 is its limited zoom range. With only a 4x optical zoom, it may not be suitable for capturing subjects that are far away. Additionally, some users have reported that the camera’s menu system can be confusing and takes time to navigate. However, once you become familiar with the menus, the camera is relatively easy to use.

Product Specification

Sensor: 12 Megapixel
Lens: 4x Optical Zoom
Aperture: f/2.0
Image Stabilization: Yes
Waterproof: Yes
Shockproof: Yes
Crushproof: Yes
Freezeproof: Yes
Dustproof: Yes

Pros

  • Rugged and durable design
  • Advanced image stabilization
  • Underwater and microscope modes
  • Fast lens for low-light photography

Cons

  • Limited zoom range
  • Confusing menu system

9.9
Our Score

Our Verdict

Overall, the Olympus Tough TG-6 is an excellent choice for outdoor enthusiasts who want a rugged and reliable camera. Its durability, advanced features, and image quality make it a top pick for adventure photography. While it may have some limitations in terms of zoom range and menu navigation, its ruggedness and versatility more than make up for it. If you’re looking for a camera that can withstand the elements and capture stunning images, the Olympus Tough TG-6 is definitely worth considering.


Kodak Ektar H35

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  • What We Like?

    The Kodak Ektar H35 is a compact and stylish point-and-shoot camera that offers excellent image quality. It features a 35mm f/2.8 lens, a 1/2000s maximum shutter speed, and a built-in flash, allowing you to capture sharp and well-exposed photos in a variety of lighting conditions. The camera also has a simple and intuitive design, making it easy to use for both beginners and experienced photographers.

  • What We Don’t Like?

    One drawback of the Kodak Ektar H35 is its lack of manual controls. While the camera’s automatic settings work well in most situations, more advanced photographers may miss the ability to manually adjust settings such as aperture and shutter speed. Additionally, the camera does not have a zoom lens, so you may need to physically move closer to your subject to capture the desired composition.

Product Specification

Lens: 35mm f/2.8
Shutter Speed: 1/2000s
Flash: Built-in
Manual Controls: No
Zoom Lens: No

Pros

  • Excellent image quality
  • Compact and stylish design
  • Simple and intuitive operation
  • Built-in flash for low-light photography

Cons

  • Lack of manual controls
  • No zoom lens

9.5
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Kodak Ektar H35 is a great choice for those who prioritize image quality and simplicity. Its compact and stylish design, combined with its excellent image quality, make it an appealing option for both beginners and experienced photographers. While it may lack manual controls and a zoom lens, its automatic settings and built-in flash ensure that you can capture great shots in a variety of situations. If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use point-and-shoot camera, the Kodak Ektar H35 is definitely worth considering.


Ricoh GR IIIx

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  • What We Like?

    The Ricoh GR IIIx is a compact and powerful point-and-shoot camera that is perfect for street and travel photography. It features a 24-megapixel APS-C sensor, a fast f/2.8 lens, and a built-in image stabilization system, ensuring high-resolution and sharp images. The camera also has a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around all day. Additionally, the GR IIIx offers advanced features such as in-camera RAW processing and a macro mode, allowing you to get creative with your photography.

  • What We Don’t Like?

    One downside of the Ricoh GR IIIx is its lack of a built-in viewfinder. While the camera does offer an optional external viewfinder, it can be an extra expense and may not be as convenient as a built-in viewfinder. Additionally, the camera’s battery life is relatively short, so you may need to carry spare batteries if you plan on shooting for an extended period of time.

Product Specification

Sensor: 24 Megapixel APS-C
Lens: 28mm f/2.8
Image Stabilization: Yes
Viewfinder: Optional
Macro Mode: Yes
RAW Processing: Yes

Pros

  • High-resolution images
  • Fast lens for low-light photography
  • Compact and lightweight design
  • Advanced features for creativity

Cons

  • Lack of built-in viewfinder
  • Short battery life

9.8
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Ricoh GR IIIx is an excellent choice for street and travel photographers who want a compact and powerful camera. Its high-resolution sensor, fast lens, and advanced features make it a top pick for those who value image quality and versatility. While it may lack a built-in viewfinder and have a relatively short battery life, its compact design and image quality more than make up for these limitations. If you’re looking for a camera that can capture stunning images on the go, the Ricoh GR IIIx is a fantastic option.


Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo

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  • What We Like?

    The Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo is a fun and nostalgic point-and-shoot camera that instantly prints credit-card-sized photos. It features a built-in flash, automatic exposure control, and a selfie mode, making it perfect for capturing memories at parties, events, and gatherings. The camera uses Fujifilm’s Instax Mini film, which produces vibrant and retro-looking photos. Additionally, the Instax Mini Evo has a compact and lightweight design, allowing you to carry it around with ease.

  • What We Don’t Like?

    One drawback of the Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo is its limited control over exposure settings. The camera’s automatic exposure control works well in most situations, but more advanced photographers may miss the ability to manually adjust settings such as aperture and shutter speed. Additionally, the cost of film can add up, especially if you plan on shooting a lot of photos.

Product Specification

Film Type: Fujifilm Instax Mini
Flash: Built-in
Exposure Control: Automatic
Selfie Mode: Yes

Pros

  • Instantly prints credit-card-sized photos
  • Built-in flash for low-light photography
  • Compact and lightweight design
  • Fun and nostalgic experience

Cons

  • Limited control over exposure settings
  • Cost of film can add up

9.7
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo is a great choice for those who want to capture and share memories instantly. Its fun and nostalgic experience, combined with its compact design, make it perfect for parties, events, and gatherings. While it may lack control over exposure settings and have ongoing film costs, its instant prints and ease of use more than make up for these limitations. If you’re looking for a camera that brings back the joy of instant photography, the Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo is an excellent option.


Fujifilm X100V

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  • What We Like?

    The Fujifilm X100V is a high-end point-and-shoot camera that offers exceptional image quality and versatility. It features a 26-megapixel APS-C sensor, a fast f/2.0 lens, and Fujifilm’s renowned film simulation modes, allowing you to capture stunning and film-like photos. The camera also has a hybrid viewfinder, which combines the benefits of an optical viewfinder and an electronic viewfinder, providing a unique shooting experience. Additionally, the X100V has a retro-inspired design, making it a stylish and eye-catching camera.

  • What We Don’t Like?

    One downside of the Fujifilm X100V is its price. As a high-end camera, it may not be within everyone’s budget. Additionally, the camera’s fixed lens may not be suitable for photographers who prefer the flexibility of interchangeable lenses. While the X100V does offer excellent image quality and a versatile focal length, some users may feel limited by the fixed lens.

Product Specification

Sensor: 26 Megapixel APS-C
Lens: 23mm f/2.0
Viewfinder: Hybrid
Film Simulation Modes: Yes
Retro Design: Yes

Pros

  • Exceptional image quality
  • Fast lens for low-light photography
  • Hybrid viewfinder for a unique shooting experience
  • Film simulation modes for a vintage look

Cons

  • High price
  • Fixed lens may not suit all photographers

9.9
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Fujifilm X100V is a top-of-the-line camera for those who value image quality and versatility. Its high-resolution sensor, fast lens, and film simulation modes make it a favorite among photographers who want a premium shooting experience. While it may be on the expensive side and have a fixed lens, its exceptional image quality and retro-inspired design make it a worthwhile investment for serious photographers. If you’re looking for a high-end point-and-shoot camera that delivers stunning results, the Fujifilm X100V is the perfect choice.


Sony RX100 VII

Sony RX100 VII

  • What We Like?

    The Sony RX100 VII is a high-end point-and-shoot camera that excels in both image quality and performance. With its 20-megapixel sensor, fast f/1.8-2.8 lens, and advanced autofocus system, it captures stunning photos and videos in various shooting conditions. The camera offers impressive 4K video recording and a pop-up electronic viewfinder, enhancing its versatility. It’s a compact powerhouse for photographers and videographers alike.

  • What We Don’t Like?

    The main drawback of the Sony RX100 VII is its premium price tag. It’s among the more expensive point-and-shoot options on the market. Additionally, the control layout might feel cramped for some users, making it less comfortable for extended shooting sessions. Beginners may find its feature set overwhelming.

Product Specification

Sensor: 20 Megapixel
Lens: f/1.8-2.8
Viewfinder: Pop-up Electronic
Video Recording: 4K

Pros

  • Outstanding image quality
  • Fast and versatile lens
  • Advanced autofocus system
  • 4K video recording
  • Compact and portable

Cons

  • Premium price
  • Cramped control layout
  • Not ideal for beginners

9.8
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Sony RX100 VII is a top-tier point-and-shoot camera for photography enthusiasts and videographers looking for exceptional image quality and versatile performance. While it comes at a premium price and may not be the best choice for beginners, its compact size and feature-rich capabilities make it a favorite among professionals and advanced users.


Sony ZV-1

Sony ZV-1

  • What We Like?

    The Sony ZV-1 is a compact and feature-packed point-and-shoot camera designed for vlogging and content creation. It boasts a 20-megapixel sensor, a bright f/1.8-2.8 lens, and a fully articulating touchscreen. The camera excels in video recording with 4K capabilities, fast and reliable autofocus, and dedicated microphone and accessory options. Its compact size and ease of use make it an excellent choice for vloggers and YouTubers.

  • What We Don’t Like?

    While the Sony ZV-1 is fantastic for video, its photo capabilities are less impressive. It lacks the versatility and image quality of some competing models. Additionally, its battery life can be limiting for extended shooting sessions, so carrying spare batteries is advisable for content creators on the go.

Product Specification

Sensor: 20 Megapixel
Lens: f/1.8-2.8
Video Recording: 4K
Screen: Fully Articulating Touchscreen

Pros

  • Excellent for vlogging
  • 4K video with good quality
  • Fully articulating touchscreen
  • Dedicated microphone input
  • Compact and easy to use

Cons

  • Limited photo capabilities
  • Short battery life

9.6
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Sony ZV-1 is a superb choice for vloggers and content creators seeking a compact and powerful camera for video production. Its video-focused features, reliable autofocus, and microphone options cater to the needs of creators. However, it may not be the best choice for photographers prioritizing still photography.


Ricoh GR III

Ricoh GR III

  • What We Like?

    The Ricoh GR III is a compact and capable point-and-shoot camera for street photographers. It features a 24-megapixel APS-C sensor, a fast f/2.8 lens, and in-camera RAW processing. The camera’s image quality is impressive, with excellent sharpness and detail. Its pocketable design and intuitive controls make it an excellent choice for those who prioritize portability and image quality.

  • What We Don’t Like?

    One limitation of the Ricoh GR III is its lack of a built-in viewfinder. While it offers an optional external viewfinder, it adds to the overall cost. Additionally, the camera’s battery life is relatively short, so carrying spare batteries is recommended for extended shooting sessions.

Product Specification

Sensor: 24 Megapixel APS-C
Lens: f/2.8
Viewfinder: Optional
RAW Processing: Yes

Pros

  • Excellent image quality
  • Compact and pocketable
  • In-camera RAW processing
  • Fast and sharp lens

Cons

  • No built-in viewfinder
  • Short battery life

9.4
Our Score

Our Verdict

The Ricoh GR III is an ideal choice for street photographers who seek exceptional image quality in a compact form. Its sharp lens and in-camera RAW processing make it a standout option for those who value portability and image quality. However, the lack of a built-in viewfinder and short battery life are considerations to keep in mind.


Comparison Table

Feature Olympus Tough TG-6 Kodak Ektar H35 Ricoh GR IIIx Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Fujifilm X100V Sony RX100 VII Sony ZV-1 Ricoh GR III
Sensor 1/2.3″ BSI CMOS 35mm film APS-C CMOS 1/2.3″ BSI CMOS APS-C CMOS 1″ CMOS 1″ CMOS APS-C CMOS
Megapixels 12MP 40MP 24MP 10.76MP 26MP 20.1MP 20.1MP 24MP
Lens 4.5mm-22.5mm f/2.0-4.9 (25-130mm equivalent) 40mm f/2.8 40mm f/2.8 28mm f/2.8 23mm f/2 24-200mm f/2.8-4.5 equivalent 24mm f/1.8-2.8 28mm f/2.8
Image Stabilization Yes No Yes No Yes Yes Yes Yes
Viewfinder Yes No Yes No Yes Yes Yes No
Video Recording 4K at 30p No 1080p at 60p 1080p at 30p 4K at 30p 4K at 30p 4K at 30p 1080p at 60p
Weather Sealing Yes No No No No No No No

Buying Guide: Best Point-and-Shoot Cameras for 2023

Image quality:

Look for a camera with a high-resolution sensor and image processor for excellent image quality.

Zoom range:

Consider the focal length and zoom capabilities of the camera. Determine if the range fits your photography style.

Special features:

Some cameras offer unique features like built-in ND filters, vari-angle LCD screens, or dedicated vlogging features. Assess if these features align with your requirements.

Durability:

If you plan to take your camera on outdoor adventures, consider a rugged and waterproof model.

Budget:

Set a budget and find a camera that offers the best value within that range.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the best point-and-shoot camera for 2023 depends on your specific requirements and preferences. The Sony RX100 VII, Sony ZV-1, Ricoh GR III, and Olympus Tough TG-6 are all excellent choices, each catering to different photography styles and needs. Assess the pros and cons of each camera, considering factors such as image quality, zoom range, and special features. With this information, you can confidently select the perfect point-and-shoot camera to capture your memorable moments in 2023 and beyond.