In the age of the smartphone, 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 editor bought 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 the Fujifilm X100V – which holds the top position in our best 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
Fujifilm X half review: who needs film?
Fujifilm's X half is a digital reimagining of the half frame film camera, complete with vertical photos and a unique Film Roll mode.
Where to buy the Fujifilm X100VI: current delivery estimates and the best retailers
Let's secure you a shiny new camera with our guide on where to buy the Fujifilm X100VI - including the latest shipping estimates.
OMG – Fujifilm’s film-roll mode is the outright cutest camera feature I’ve played with in years
Fujifilm's X half retro compact is packed with fun and unique features, especially if you have a soft spot for analog photography.
This fun point-and-shoot camera is like a cross between a Fujifilm X100VI and Camp Snap – and it now has a confirmed price tag
Quick backers to this retro-styled throwback camera will be able to obtain it for a special early bird price.
Is the compact camera you want out of stock? Here are 3 of the best models I've tested this year, and they're all available now
Compact cameras are trending and hard to find. And even though there's a conspicuous absence of some leading brands in this market, there are three top new models available now.
Fujifilm GFX100RF vs Fujifilm X100VI: can an APS-C camera topple a medium-format model?
The Fujifilm GFX100RF is a higher-end, larger-sensor camera than the X100VI, but the latter beats it at times by offering forgiving handheld shooting and more diverse video modes.
VTech KidiZoom Duo review: the cheap kids camera to beat
The latest in a long-time favorite series of cheap cameras for kids, the VTech KidiZoom Duo is an easy first camera recommendation –just don't expect your youngsters to use its camera much.
Ricoh shows off long-awaited GR IV compact camera, but it doesn't look like the major upgrade I wanted
A prototype of Ricoh’s highly anticipated point-and-shoot camera is currently available to view at the company’s Tokyo showroom
