Buying Guide: Compact Cameras

Buying a compact camera: what should you pay attention to?

Do you want to buy a compact camera but don’t know where to start? We’ve listed the 7 most important questions you should ask yourself before making a purchase. This way, you’ll be able to choose the perfect compact camera for your needs.

Want to quickly find out which compact camera suits you best? Answer a few questions and discover your perfect compact camera!

Pros and cons at a glance

Compact camera buying guide

7 questions you should ask yourself when looking for a compact camera:

1. Do I only want to take photos or also shoot videos?

Most compact cameras allow you to shoot both photos and videos. For video recording, nearly all models offer an automatic mode in which the camera handles everything, including focusing. You can also usually zoom in and out manually.

If you want to film yourself in addition to capturing “first person view” (FPV), a compact camera with a tilting screen is ideal. A tilting screen is also useful for photography, for example when shooting from a low angle without having to lie on the ground.

2. In what situations will I use the compact camera?

If you mainly shoot indoors, a light-sensitive compact camera is best. If you mostly take family photos and videos, an entry-level model with a smart automatic mode is perfect. If you travel often, a compact size and a strong zoom range are especially important. If you enjoy being active outdoors, a rugged, weather-sealed and/or waterproof compact camera is the ideal choice.

3. How many megapixels do I need?

When looking at megapixels, it’s important to consider what you want to do with your photos. The difference becomes noticeable mainly when editing or printing images.

If you don’t plan to edit or print your photos, a compact camera with fewer megapixels is sufficient. If you do want to edit your images, a higher-resolution compact camera is a better choice.

For A4 prints, you need around 10 megapixels, and for larger prints you’ll quickly need around 17 megapixels or more.

4. Which settings do I want to use?

Now that you know what you’ll use the camera for, you should consider how many manual settings you need. This depends entirely on your type of photography.

If you mainly take simple “point-and-shoot” photos, you don’t need many manual settings. A camera with a smart automatic mode is enough to quickly and easily take great photos.

If you enjoy adjusting settings yourself, a more advanced compact camera is a better fit. This allows you to control aperture and shutter speed manually.

If you also want to edit your images, a compact camera with RAW support is highly recommended.

5. What type of zoom do I need?

Most compact cameras offer two types of zoom: optical zoom and digital zoom. With optical zoom, the lens elements physically move to bring your subject closer. This is different from digital zoom, where the zoom range is increased via software.

When you use digital zoom, image quality can be reduced, depending on the camera’s resolution. So if you want to get closer to your subject without losing quality, you should choose a compact camera with optical zoom.

6. How much optical zoom is best for me?

The zoom range you need depends on what you want to photograph.

For everyday use, 10x optical zoom is usually sufficient. For city trips or holidays, a compact camera with 10–30x optical zoom is ideal. If you’re going on safari and want to capture subjects at a great distance, choose a zoom range above 30x.

7. Do I need any accessories?

The short answer: yes. There are a few essential accessories every photographer needs.

Think of a memory card, extra battery, camera case, and a tripod.

Internal storage on compact cameras is very limited, so a memory card is always necessary. An extra battery is also highly recommended, especially if you’re out shooting all day and want to avoid running out of power.

A camera case helps protect your camera from damage, even if it fits in your pocket. It also often provides extra space for small accessories.

A tripod is especially useful for compact cameras with a large zoom range, helping you avoid blurry images and ensuring stable shots.

Additional buying guide: compact cameras

Still not sure which compact camera is the best choice for you? No problem at all. We’re happy to help you get started. Take a look at our top 10 compact cameras.

Are you also still unsure about other cameras, lenses, accessories, and more? Then be sure to check out all of our buying guides.