The Quick List ↩ 1. Best overall 2. Best for YouTube 3. Best for the streets 4. Best hybrid 5. Best waterproof 6. Best budget 7. Best for stills 8. Best 1-inch-sensor 9. Best for megapixels How to choose How we test

The best compact cameras are perfect as a 'second' camera for DSLR or mirrorless camera owners who want to travel light now and again. They give little away in features or image quality, but they are small enough to slip into a jacket pocket. These are the ones we rate the highest.

With this guide, we have picked compact cameras that nevertheless have sensors large enough for high-quality images and the mix of automatic and manual controls that enthusiasts and experts will be looking for, and that we are used to getting in a DSLR or mirrorless camera. If you want something cheaper and simpler, we've got that covered too in our guide to the best point-and-shoot cameras.

The key point about 'compact' cameras is that the lenses are not interchangeable. The lens is built in which saves you having to think about which lenses to invest in and which lenses to pack. 

As Ecommerce Editor for Digital Camera World, and having been a professional  photographer for nearly two decades, I've seen and used a LOT of cameras, using compacts while on holiday or when I wanted to travel light. Now in my spare time, I use my trusted Leica M-E to shoot street photography, usually in black and white.

Best overall

If you want the latest and greatest then there is no denying the new FujiFilm X100VI is the best overall compact on the market with 40MP stills and 6K video capabilities. Read more below

Best for YouTube

Aimed at vloggers, the Sony ZV-1 might just look like another variant from the RX100 range but in reality, it's so much more. If you've used one of the RX100s, the sensor and lens will probably be quite familiar. Read more below

Best for the streets

One of our favorite compact street cameras ever. This is a powerful pocket-sized camera with built-in editing tools, an ND filter, 2GB of internal storage, and a choice of focal lengths. Read more below

Best hybrid

Panasonic hits a sweet spot by using a mid-sized MFT sensor, which makes it great for both shooting video, and for normal stills photos. However, you do only get a modest 3x zoom. Read more below

Best waterproof

An update on the TG-6 does little to change the specs, just swapping Olympus for OM Systems on the front – but that doesn't stop this being the best waterproof camera out there. Read more below

Best budget

Best budget option Not many compact cameras offer such a massive zoom, 4K video, manual shooting and a viewfinder. It doesn't have the biggest sensor or the fastest burst mode but it is an impressive little camera. Read more

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Most practical

Best for stills quality This Canon PowerShot uses a big APS-C 24-megapixel sensor that allows it to maximize image quality, whilst still offering you a 3x zoom. Read more

Best 1-inch-sensor

If you want a versatile camera, with a decent zoom range and a great 1-inch sensor then this is the one I'd pick. Read more below

Best for Megapixels

If you want the best compact camera for megapixels then the Leica Q3's 60MP stills beats all the competition - but you'll have to pay a hefty price tag. Read more below

Why you can trust Digital Camera World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.

Our expert review:

✅ You want a premium compact camera: The X100VI is the king of the hill when it comes to the increasingly narrowing field of compact cameras. If you want a camera that can slip into a pocket but still offers an exceptional camera experience then look no further.

✅ You love retro-inspired cameras: I love the looks of the X100VI, it harks back to beautiful rangefinder film cameras from the last century. It's not just looks, the build quality is exceptional, and feels really good in the hand. If you want to look cool on the streets then the X100VI is one to check out.

❌ You want to shoot at different focal lengths: The X100VI is a fixed-lens camera. This means that the lens cannot be changed, so you are stuck with the 23mm focal length. There are adapters available to alter the perceived focal length but they are expensive with varying results.

❌ You want to shoot lots of video: While the X100VI is capable of good 6K video, but it just isn't as versatile as other interchangeable lens cameras, and the two-way tilting screen limits vlogging and recording from awkward angles.

The new Fujifilm X100VI may seem unchanged on the surface, but I find it hard to complain when the design is as breathtaking and well-crafted as ever. Using the X100VI is still an absolute delight for me, especially with its hybrid viewfinder and manual dials that add a tactile element to my photography experience.

Thankfully, there are some noteworthy upgrades under the hood. With a new 40MP sensor, updated processor, and IBIS (In-Body Image Stabilization), the X100VI's stills and video capabilities have received a significant boost. From the initial samples I've taken, the results have been nothing short of excellent.

Admittedly, the price of the X100VI is the highest yet, which does make it a tough decision, especially when there are cameras with better technology available for less. However, for me, the iconic design and enhanced features make it a compelling choice despite the price tag.

Read our Hands-on of the Fujifilm X100VI

Our expert review:

✅ You want great autofocus: With its super-responsive AF this is the perfect camera for YouTube.

✅ You want compact: This mighty camera is near pocketable and perfect for vlogging on the go.

❌You want full frame: Its 1-inch sensor out performs, but it doesn't offer that fantastic full-frame look.

❌You want see in 16:9: For a YouTube camera, it would be great to view  your video in 16:9 on the rear screen.

Aimed at vloggers, the Sony ZV-1 might just look like another variant from the RX100 range but in reality, it's so much more. If you've used one of the RX100s, the sensor and lens will probably be quite familiar. 

Where this camera excels is the controls, rear screen, and body, making it perfect for YouTube. It too has the popular zoom range of 24-70mm with a variable aperture of f/1.8 - f/2.8 however, there is a big change in minimum focusing distance as you zoom which is annoying, especially if you're using it to record video.

The SteadyShot active stabilization wasn't the best however the autofocus is very impressive. It has a vari-angle, a rear tilting screen that means it's perfect for recording yourself or taking selfies and it comes with a mic-wind shield which means its audio quality even with the built-in mic is still pretty good. Unlike the Sony RX100 cameras, it doesn't have a viewfinder, but it produces high-quality images, is even better at video, and, best of all, it'll cost you less. 

Read our full Sony ZV-1 review 

Our expert review:

✅ You love 40mm focal length: niche to some, but adored by many this captures what the eye seems.

✅ You want a big sensor in a small package: With its 24MP APS-C sensor in this small body, its a powerful tool

❌ You want a viewfinder: If you want one, your going to have to buy it as an eye-level viewfinder costs extra

❌ You're on a budget: those the features and the hype, it comes with a costly price tag

The Ricoh GR IIIx is a street-savvy version of the Ricoh GR III with a better-suited 40mm lens instead of the original 28mm. It does have a few other benefits to it, including an optional 1.5x teleconverter lens, which can be attached to the fixed lens for a more zoomed-in view.

For an APS-C camera, it's incredibly compact, making it ideal for street or travel photography, and with a wide f/2.8 lens, super fast eye AF, plus sensor-shift stabilization, it's great for portraits, too. It's pocket-sized but it's big on features boasting 2GB internal storage and built-in NDs. It truly is a compact camera aimed at photographers who want to have total control.

Read our full Ricoh GR IIIx review 

Our expert review:

✅ You want a "do-it-all" camera: This camera is perfect for 4K video and 17MP stills - perfect for those holiday snaps 

✅ You want a fast zoom lens: With its f/1.7-2.8 aperture and 24-75mm equiv zoom range its a powerful package.

❌ You want high MP count: With 'only' 17MP it's not beating any megapixel races

❌ You want a bigger sensor: With its Micro-Four-Thirds sensor you wont be getting the shallow DOF that you see in full frame

When it comes to big sensors, the struggle has always been finding a compact camera to match. But let me tell you, Panasonic has nailed it with the LX100 II. It's got the perfect blend of stellar stills and video performance all packed into a pocket-sized body.

What sets it apart is its Micro Four Thirds sensor, which is almost as large as the APS-C sensors found in many DSLRs. Yet, somehow, Panasonic has managed to shrink down the lens assembly to fit snugly within the camera body. It's truly remarkable how they've achieved such a compact design without sacrificing performance.

The LX100 II is a fresh take on the original LX100, which was starting to show its age. With its new 17-megapixel 'multi-aspect' sensor, you have the flexibility to shoot in different aspect ratios without compromising on image quality. And let's not forget the external shutter speed dial, lens aperture ring, and aspect ratio switch – they make shooting with this camera an absolute joy. Trust me, it's a game-changer.

Read our full Panasonic Lumix LX100 II review

Our expert review:

✅ You want GPS: With its Built-in GPS, you can be sure to geotag your shots to remember all your fantastic holiday memories.

✅ You want a zoom function: with a 4x optical zoom, this is the perfect camera to take to the beach or the ocean and always get the shot.

❌ You want something new: This is virtually identical to its predecessor, the Olympus Tough TG-6.

The Olympus TG-6 was my go-to waterproof compact camera, and now it's back as the OM System TG-7. I'm glad to see it's pretty much unchanged because that's exactly what I loved about it. It's still my top pick for a rugged waterproof camera.

One of my favorite features is the built-in microscope setting, which allows me to capture stunning close-up shots. Plus, the Field Sensor System is a neat addition, recording GPS coordinates and ambient temperature along with my photos.

With 4K video at 30fps and the option for Full HD video at 120fps for super-slow motion, the TG-7 is quite versatile. The generous 25-100mm optical zoom lens lets me get up close to the action.

I appreciate the improved chunky handgrip, which gives me a secure hold on the camera, and the internal zoom mechanism means the lens is always protected from knocks and bumps.

Overall, the TG-7 is straightforward yet sophisticated, making it hands down the best waterproof camera I've come across.

Read our full OM System Tough TG-7 review

Our expert review:

✅ You want a huge zoom: with a zoom equivariant from 24-720mm you cant beat this compact powerhouse

✅ You want fast FPS: With 10 frames-per-second this is a fast little compact for anyone wanting to capture the action

❌ You want to shoot at night: this little compact is good in the daytime, but its low-light performance leave a lot to be desired

❌ You want a bight viewfinder: the viewfinder is a little tiny so composing your image can be a little tricky

When I worked at Wex Photo Video (a British camera retailer), the Panasonic ZS80/TZ95 was my top recommended camera for people who were after something compact, with a generous zoom that didn't break the bank. 

For such a tiny camera, it's hard to believe it has a zoom range of 24-720mm making it possible to shoot wide landscapes and objects far in the distance. With 4K video, a pop-up flash, a range of shooting modes you'd expect to find on a mirrorless camera or DSLR and a macro mode so you can focus as close as 3cm, it really is a jack-of-all-trades system.

 It might not have the fastest burst mode but at 10fps it's plenty quick enough if you're mostly looking for a camera to take on holiday or as an upgrade from your camera phone. 

Read our full Panasonic Lumix ZS80/TZ95 review

Our expert review:

✅ You want compact: For its sensor size this is a compact camera that you can take everywhere with you.

✅ You want good image quality: With its 24MP APS-C sensor it offer great image quality for the price

❌ You want 4K: the highest video resolution is 1080p 

❌ You want a wide zoom range: It only offers a 24-72mm zoom range

The Canon G1 X Mark III might be pretty pricey but it's practically a DSLR in a compact body. It boasts an impressive 24-megapixel APS-C sensor, the same sensor you'll find in the Canon EOS 80D DSLR making this compact a great stills-only option.

The lens has a versatile 24-72mm focal range and retracts into the camera to make it perfectly pocket-sized when you're not using it. Unfortunately, it doesn't have a fixed aperture, so at 24mm you can shoot as wide open as f/2.8 but at 72mm the aperture will drop down to f/5.6, which isn't great.

The G1 X Mark III can only shoot 1080P video, not 4K, but that doesn't bother us much as it's not what we would buy it for. It can shoot at 7fps in continuous burst mode and has wifi connectivity for transferring images on the go. 

I did like this flagship PowerShot a lot, and the only thing putting us off is that it's been out for a while but the price has barely shifted. Maybe that's because of how good it is!

Read our Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III review

Our expert review:

✅ You want a fast lens: With a maximum aperture with f/1.4 this is a great option for low-light

✅ You want great Auto Focus: This camera has swift and accurate AF that puts some bigger cameras to shame 

❌ You want a grip: The camera has round edges making it harder to hold than others 

❌ You want a viewfinder: Unfortunately there is no option to add one, so you need to focus via the rear screen

The Panasonic LX15, which goes by the name LX10 in North America, lacks a viewfinder, and rather than including a Micro Four Thirds sensor it has a smaller 1-inch 20-megapixel sensor which will reduce image resolution and performance.

However, it is capable of recording 4K video and it has a super-responsive touch screen which makes focusing really easy. It has a zoom range of 24-72mm and a really fast variable aperture of f/1.4-2.0, making it the fastest compact zoom lens available. 

Overall, I think it's a great little camera that has a perfect balance of features, performance, and pricing. It's small enough to fit in a pocket but is powerful enough to take some stunning photos. It's just that... having used both, we'd rather pay the extra for the LX100 II.

Read our full Panasonic Lumix LX10 review

Our expert review:

✅ You love 28mm focal length: The Q3 offers the only f/1.7 aperture lens in the whole Leica range, but it is also fixed to the body of the Q-series, so you have to love shooting at 28mm

✅ You want to follow the trend: Thanks to massive media spike in Leica camera the Leica Q3 has become 'on-tend' - which is never a bad thing.

❌ You want to shoot other focal lengths: With its fixed 28mm lens that you can't you can't change, our only option is to crop.

❌ You want an optical viewfinder: The Q3 features a high-res EVF without the optical VF of Leica M models

Leica cameras are a bit like Marmite – you either love them or hate them. No matter where you stand, you can't deny they are incredible cameras that offer exceptional image quality. The new Leica Q3 features an impressive full-frame 60-megapixel sensor. It has a fixed 28mm f/1.7 lens, making it one of the fastest prime lenses available on a compact camera. This update to the Leica Q2 now also shoots 8K video.

The biggest downside of this camera is the thing that will put most people off – the price. It's an insanely expensive bit of kit and it would probably be higher on our list if it didn't cost an arm and a leg.

You could pick up one of the best mirrorless cameras and a lens for less, but sometimes the experience of using a Leica is worth the money. Other than the price, they're relatively hard to get hold of so if you have your heart set on one, you might have to hunt for one first.

Read our full Leica Q3 review

You might imagine that one compact camera will be much like another, but there are three key features to take into account before you make a decision.

1) Prime vs zoom lenses: With a compact camera is that the lens is non-interchangeable, so the one it comes with will have to do all the jobs you want the camera for. You may be happy with a single focal length prime lens, or you may prefer the extra scope of a zoom. The focal length range on these zoom cameras varies enormously - from 3x up to over 100x on a bridge camera.

2) Viewfinders: If you find you use the rear screen on a camera most of the time, you may not need an eyelevel viewfinder – and this does give you more scope with cameras. Some photographers, though, would be lost without a viewfinder. 

3) Sensor size: It is not just about megapixels, image quality also improves by using a larger sensor. Full-frame is the biggest size sensor found on compacts, but full-frame compacts are very expensive and have a fixed wide-angle lens. If you want a zoom, the biggest-sized sensor is APS-C which under half the size of full frame. But if you want a big zoom in a pocketable camera, then you will need a model with a 1in sensor (about a third of the size of an APS-C sensor). An MFT sensor is smaller than an APS-C sensor, but bigger than a 1in one. 

During our testing process, we take compact cameras out into the real world, snapping photos in various lighting situations to gauge their performance. With a collective experience encompassing hundreds of models, our reviewers compare the results against both current competitors and past iterations. 

Our focus lies heavily on image quality, scrutinizing the details captured in each shot. Since compact cameras prioritize ease of use and portability, we also closely examine the ergonomics and handling of every model we evaluate.

See more on how we test products at Digital Camera World