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10 Best Compact Cameras 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0 score

Canon PowerShot SX740 HS Digital Camera (Silver) – 20.3MP, 40x Optical Zoom, 4K UHD Video, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth, Compact Travel Point & Shoot (2956C001) + Shoulder Bag + 64GB Memory Card

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS is a compact camera designed for travelers and casual photographers seeking a versatile, easy-to-carry option. It features a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor with 20.3 megapixels, delivering detailed photos in well-lit conditions, though it may perform less effectively in low light compared to cameras with larger sensors. A standout feature is its impressive 40x optical zoom (equivalent to 24-960mm), allowing capture of wide landscapes and distant subjects without loss of image quality. Optical Image Stabilization helps maintain steady photos and videos, which is particularly useful at longer zoom ranges.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,216
Megapixels
Zoom Range
Build Quality and Design

Most important from
24 reviews

Megapixels
Produces high-resolution images that satisfy both casual and more demanding photography needs.
Zoom Range
Offers fantastic zoom capabilities that let you get close to your subject even on vacation.
Build Quality and Design
The compact design combined with powerful features makes it an ideal travel companion.
#2
9.4 score

Leica Q3 Digital Camera 19080 *OPEN BOX*

The Leica Q3 is a high-end compact camera designed especially for serious photographers who want top-notch image quality in a portable form. Its standout feature is the 60MP full-frame sensor with Triple Resolution Technology, which delivers incredibly detailed, sharp photos with lifelike colors—great if you love rich, vibrant shots. The fixed 28mm f/1.7 Summilux lens is bright and wide, ideal for landscapes, street, and low light photography. Although it has no optical zoom, the digital zoom can extend framing up to 90mm, but it won’t match the clarity of an optical zoom.

Rating
9.4
Sensor Size
Build Quality and Design
other

Most important from
22 reviews

Sensor Size
The Leica Q3 delivers stunning image quality and sharpness that feels almost like cheating, making it a precision instrument for serious photographers.
Build Quality and Design
Its compact and sleek design combines high-end performance with a classic Leica charm, allowing it to be easily carried into any shooting situation.
other
This camera excels at street photography and serves as a versatile, go-anywhere tool that can handle a wide range of shooting needs.
#3
9.4 score

Canon PowerShot V1, Hybrid Camera, Built-in Ultra-Wide-Angle Zoom Lens, 4K Video, Vlogging, Live Streaming, Content Creation, Compact Design

The Canon PowerShot V1 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a compact camera that excels in video and content creation. It features a large 1.4-type full-frame CMOS sensor with an effective resolution of 23.9 megapixels, which helps deliver sharp and detailed still images. The built-in 16-50mm (35mm equivalent) zoom lens has a bright aperture range of f/2.8-4.5, making it versatile for wide-angle shots and some zoomed-in framing, though the optical zoom is moderate at 3.1x. Image stabilization is well covered with both optical and digital methods, helping to keep videos and photos steady, especially when shooting handheld.

Rating
9.4
Sensor Size
Connectivity
Video Capabilities

Most important from
45 reviews

Sensor Size
Delivers beautiful, high-quality pictures with impressive sharpness and detail.
Connectivity
Offers fast and effortless photo transfer, making sharing seamless.
Video Capabilities
Excels as a vlogging camera with outstanding video quality and an ultra-wide lens.
Build Quality and Design
Combines ease of use with professional-level features, perfect for content creators.

Top 10 Best Compact Cameras 2025 in the United States

#1

Winner

10.0  score

Canon PowerShot SX740 HS Digital Camera (Silver) – 20.3MP, 40x Optical Zoom, 4K UHD Video, Wi-Fi & Bluetooth, Compact Travel Point & Shoot (2956C001) + Shoulder Bag + 64GB Memory Card

Sensor Size: 1/2.3-inch
Megapixels: 20.3 megapixels
Zoom Range: 40x optical zoom, 24-960mm
Aperture: F2.8-F5.6
Image Stabilization: Optical
Video Capabilities: 4K UHD, 24-60 FPS, MP4 MOV
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Battery Life: Single lithium-ion battery
Build Quality and Design: Compact, lightweight, 3-inch LCD

Chosen by 1216 this week

Leica Q3 Digital Camera 19080 *OPEN BOX*

Sensor Size: Full Frame (35mm)
Megapixels: 60 MP
Zoom Range: Digital zoom up to 90mm
Aperture: f/1.7
Image Stabilization: Digital
Video Capabilities: 8K 30p, 4K 60p, Full HD 120p
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, USB
Build Quality and Design: Water resistant, premium, 5 lbs, compact

Canon PowerShot V1, Hybrid Camera, Built-in Ultra-Wide-Angle Zoom Lens, 4K Video, Vlogging, Live Streaming, Content Creation, Compact Design

Sensor Size: Full Frame (35mm)
Megapixels: 23.9 MP
Zoom Range: 16-50mm, 3.1x optical zoom
Aperture: f/2.8-4.5
Image Stabilization: Optical and Digital
Video Capabilities: 4K, Canon Log 3, 10-bit color
Connectivity: Wi-Fi
Battery Life: Single lithium-ion battery
Build Quality and Design: Compact, lightweight, cooling fan

Sony ZV-1F Vlog Camera for Content Creators and Vloggers White

Sensor Size: 1-inch
Zoom Range: up to 30mm
Aperture: F2
Image Stabilization: Digital
Video Capabilities: MP4
Battery Life: 1 AA battery required
Build Quality and Design: light and compact

Sony RX100 VII Premium Compact Camera with 1.0-type stacked CMOS sensor (DSCRX100M7)

Sensor Size: 1.0-type
Megapixels: 20.1 MP
Zoom Range: 24-200mm
Aperture: f/2.8-4.5
Image Stabilization: Optical, Digital
Video Capabilities: 4K
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
Battery Life: 1240mAh

Fujifilm X100VI Digital Camera - Black

Megapixels: 40.2MP
Zoom Range: 1x optical, 1.4x and 2x digital
Aperture: f/2
Image Stabilization: Sensor-shift, up to 6 stops
Build Quality and Design: Solid, stylish, premium design

Leica Q2 Monochrom Full Frame Compact Digital Camera

Sensor Size: Full Frame (35mm)
Megapixels: 47.3 MP
Zoom Range: 1x Optical, 2.7x Digital
Aperture: f/1.7
Image Stabilization: Optical
Video Capabilities: 4K at 24p, 30p, 120p
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Battery Life: Approx. 350 shots
Build Quality and Design: Robust, premium, heavier than compact

KODAK PIXPRO FZ55-BL 16MP Digital Camera 5X Optical Zoom 28mm Wide Angle 1080P Full HD Video Li-Ion Battery 2.7" LCD Vlogging Camera (Blue)

Sensor Size: 1/2.3-inch
Megapixels: 16 MP
Zoom Range: 5x optical zoom
Aperture: f/3.9 to f/6.3
Image Stabilization: Digital
Video Capabilities: 1080p Full HD
Connectivity: USB 2.0, HDMI
Battery Life: 1.5 hours
Build Quality and Design: Compact, lightweight, no weather seal
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Buying Guide for the Best Compact Cameras

Choosing the right compact camera can be a fun and rewarding experience. Compact cameras are great for those who want a portable and easy-to-use device that still offers good image quality. When selecting a compact camera, it's important to consider several key specifications that will affect your overall experience and the quality of your photos. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and find the best camera for your needs.
Sensor SizeThe sensor size in a camera determines how much light it can capture, which directly affects image quality. Larger sensors generally produce better images, especially in low light conditions. Compact cameras typically have smaller sensors, but some models offer larger sensors for improved performance. If you plan to take photos in various lighting conditions or want higher image quality, look for a camera with a larger sensor.
MegapixelsMegapixels refer to the resolution of the camera's sensor, indicating how many millions of pixels the camera can capture. More megapixels can mean more detail in your photos, but it's not the only factor that determines image quality. For most users, a camera with 12-20 megapixels is sufficient. If you plan to print large photos or crop images frequently, you might want a camera with higher megapixels.
Zoom RangeThe zoom range of a camera indicates how much you can magnify your subject. Optical zoom is more important than digital zoom, as it uses the camera's lens to bring the subject closer without losing image quality. A higher optical zoom range is useful for capturing distant subjects, such as wildlife or sports events. Consider your typical photography needs to decide if you need a camera with a long zoom range.
ApertureAperture refers to the size of the lens opening that allows light to enter the camera. It is expressed as an f-number (e.g., f/2.8). A lower f-number means a larger aperture, which allows more light to reach the sensor and is better for low-light photography. If you plan to take photos in dim environments or want to achieve a blurred background effect, look for a camera with a larger aperture (lower f-number).
Image StabilizationImage stabilization helps reduce blur caused by camera shake, especially in low light or when using a long zoom. There are two types: optical and digital. Optical stabilization is generally more effective as it physically adjusts the lens or sensor to counteract movement. If you often shoot in low light or at long zoom ranges, a camera with good image stabilization will help you get sharper images.
Video CapabilitiesMany compact cameras offer video recording features, with varying resolutions and frame rates. Common resolutions include Full HD (1080p) and 4K. Higher resolutions provide better video quality but also require more storage space. If you plan to use your camera for video recording, consider the resolution and frame rate options, as well as any additional features like slow motion or time-lapse.
ConnectivityConnectivity options like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC allow you to easily transfer photos and videos to other devices or share them online. Some cameras also offer GPS for geotagging your photos. If you want to quickly share your images on social media or back them up to the cloud, look for a camera with good connectivity features.
Battery LifeBattery life is an important consideration, especially if you plan to use your camera for extended periods or while traveling. Battery life is usually measured in the number of shots per charge. Look for a camera with a battery life that suits your usage patterns. If you take a lot of photos in one go, a longer battery life will be beneficial.
Build Quality and DesignThe build quality and design of a camera affect its durability and ease of use. Consider factors like the materials used, weather sealing, and the overall ergonomics of the camera. A well-built camera will last longer and be more comfortable to use. If you plan to take your camera on outdoor adventures, look for a model with robust build quality and weather resistance.

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