Compact cameras

In the age of thesmartphone, compact cameras have had to evolve in order to survive. No longer are they simple point-and-shoots or versatile travel-zooms, but rather they are often premium devices with large sensors and sharp lenses or even bigger zoom ranges, ultimately giving superior image quality or greater versatility than your average smartphone camera.

The world’s best compacts can cost as much as, if not more than, the latest flagship smartphones, but don’t be put off by their high prices. In 2022, our Cameras editorbought a compact camera instead of the latest iPhone, because cameras handle better for photography and help focus your creativity in a way that a smartphone cannot with all of its additional distractions.

Compact cameras can fit in your pocket, are portable and discreet, and that’s what makes them particularly popular for street and documentary photography. Some models, such as theFujifilm X100V– which holds the top position in ourbest compact camera guide– have been enjoying a resurgence in 2023, which goes to show that there’s life in the compact camera market yet.

Latest about Compact Cameras

Looking for a Fujifilm X100VI alternative? Its biggest rival could get a successor soon

ByTimothy Colemanpublished7 November 24

Rumors suggest a Ricoh GR IV digital compact, plus a surprise monochrome variation, are on their way.

The best compact cameras for 2024

ByTimothy Colemanlast updated7 November 24

UpdatedOur best compact camera for 2024 guide will help you find the right pocket camera for you, whatever your budget.

Leica Q3 43 review: a stunning premium compact with a unique focal length

ByChris Rowlandspublished29 October 24

Leica gives its stunning premium compact a fast, sharp 43mm prime lens with a uniquely natural perspective that’s perfect for portraits, street and travel photography.

Where to buy the Fujifilm X100VI: current delivery estimates and the best retailers

ByAlex Whitelocklast updated18 October 24

Let’s secure you a shiny new camera with our guide on where to buy the Fujifilm X100VI - including the latest shipping estimates.

Fujifilm could be making a quirky digital compact that shoots vertically like your phone – and it’s a polarizing concept

ByTimothy Colemanpublished13 October 24

Further rumors emerge about Fujifilm’s all-new camera tipped for 2025, with speculation centering on a digital compact with vertical sensor.

Ricoh GR IIIx HDF review: a street shooter with a dreamy diffusion filter

ByChris Rowlandspublished7 October 24

The Pentax 17 is a half-frame compact film camera with plenty of charm and some neat design touches, if you can stomach the price.

This ‘game-changing’ AI camera for kids wants to keep your little ones safe, and creative

ByTimothy Colemanpublished27 September 24

myFirst Camera 50 features AI photo and editing tools, plus a dedicated app that parents have full control over, to create a handy looking camera for kids

Leica’s Q3 43 premium compact camera features a stunning new 43mm lens fans have been begging for

ByTimothy Colemanpublished26 September 24

The Leica Q3 43 features a new specially developed APO-Summicron 43mm f/2 ASPH lens with a longer reach than the Q3’s wide-angle 28mm f/1.7 optic.

Kodak Ektar H35 review: style over substance

ByJames Abbottpublished23 September 24

If you’re after a cheap and cheerful half-frame camera, then you can’t go wrong with the Kodak Ektar H35. Just keep your expectations lo-fi.

Leica D-Lux 8 review: Leica, for less

ByRichard Sibleypublished13 September 24

The D-Lux 8 offers the Leica experience for an affordable price, but it’s not a big upgrade over its predecessor.

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