A list of the best point and shoot cameras should help you out in case you are confused about which one to choose from the numerous devices available in the market. We’ve taken into consideration most leading manufacturers and added a detailed description for each of the contenders to make it easier to select one that is suitable for you. And none of these require you to be an exceptionally good photographer. So have a look at the snappers, grab the one you like the most and do not miss out on any of those picture perfect moments, ever again.
1 – Canon PowerShot G1 X:
Although the compact G1 X sports a small form factor that measures 4.60 x 3.17 x 2.55 inches, the device crams in most of the useful features required to capture good quality images. It employs a 14.3MP 1.5-inch CMOS sensor in addition to the Digic 5 image processor. Its sensitivity of ISO 12800 allows you to click pictures even in poorly lit conditions.
Featuring built-in flash, it lets you take clear photos from a good distance with the help of the image stabilizer and 16x combined zoom.
Price: $799.99
2 – Sony Cyber-shot RX100:
This alternative in our list is meant for those of you who seek enhanced image quality and high-end handling in a compact chassis. The 20.2MP Exmor 1-inch CMOS sensor teams up with the Carl Zeiss lens to capture detailed pictures and cut back on ghost and flaring effects.
Integrated with Optical SteadyShot with Active Mode, it is capable of capturing high definition 1080p blur-free videos. Modes and effects to further enhance images have been included too.
Price: $649.99
3 – Nikon Coolpix P510:
A snapper with brilliant clarity and astounding reach, the Coolpix P510 has been constructed keeping in mind outdoor photographers. Capturing moving objects and spontaneous actions should not be a problem, thanks to its optical VR Image Stabilization.
And you won’t have to forgo capturing a picture perfect moment just because you are far away from the scene; the zoom range of 24mm – 1000mm makes sure you get the perfect shot even from a distance. It has been deployed with a 16.1MP CMOS sensor and offers sensitivity of ISO 100 to 3200.
Price: $429.95
4 – Olympus SZ-31MR iHS:
The Olympus SZ-31MP iHS deserves a mention in our lineup as it puts you close to the action with assistance from the 16MP sensor and 24x optical zoom. Its Dual TruePic III+ technology brings a multi-recording feature to the device that enables you to click images while recording videos. Additionally, the iHS technology strives towards delivering DSLR-like picture quality and the built-in effects negate the need to edit images on a computer system. The imaging device’s 3-inch touchscreen LCD comes in handy for composing or previewing shots.
Price: $399.99
5 – Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20:
The Lumix DMC-ZS20 comes across as an apt companion as this device lets you click pictures from afar using 20x optical zoom. Complete with built-in flash and a 14.1MP MOS sensor, the snapper has been included with the Leica DC Vario/Elmar lens and Power Optical Image Stabilizer to get rid of the blurring effect in images due to hand or camera shake. And need we mention that this device can be employed for the purpose of shooting high definition videos in AVCHD as well as MP4 formats?
Price: $349.99
6 – Pentax Optio WG-2:
And now for those who require a companion rugged enough to endure whatever you plan to throw at it, we’ve added the adventure-proof Pentax Optio WG-2 to our compilation. You can expect the snapper to deliver high resolution images through its backlit 16MP CMOS sensor, while withstanding water, dust, shocks, crushes and even freezing temperatures.
It incorporates internal 5x optical zoom and has the ability to record clear HD videos of 1080p resolution at the rate of 30 frames per second.
Price: $299.95
7 – Fujifilm FinePix XP170:
Another rugged device to grace our queue is the Finepix XP170 that offers 4-way protection. It resists dust and sand as well as water up to a depth of 10m, shocks in case of accidental drops from as high as 2m and low temperature levels to about -10°C. It takes advantage of the Fujinon 5x optical zoom lens and tags along a 14.4MP CMOS sensor.
The shooter’s sensitivity ranges from ISO 100 to 3200 and it is loaded with effects and modes to enhance the images taken from it. And needless to say, this Fujifilm device should allow you to capture good quality videos as well.
Price: $279.95
8 – Samsung ST76:
The Samsung snapper in question seems apt for budget-conscious users as it promises not to dig a deep hole in your pocket. Its 16.1MP CCD sensor is responsible for taking low-noise images even in dimly lit conditions, without compromising on image quality. Smart Auto 2.0 intuitively selects a movie or photo mode and digital image stabilization has been added to produce images sans the blurring effect. It should also let you capture 720p videos through its compact chassis.
Price: $129.99
Conclusion:
So those were some of the best point and shoot cameras vying for your attention. Here we’ve tried to include devices from most major manufacturers and those belonging to different price ranges, to narrow down your options to some extent. So which of the aforementioned snappers will you choose, if we ask you to take your pick? Drop in a word to let us know.