Best bridge camera 2024: the finest options with huge zoom lenses

Bridge cameras  'bridge' the gap between simple point-and-shoot cameras and interchangeable-lens cameras such as DSLRs and mirrorless. Their selling point is their versatility and excellent DSLR-style handling. You get a built-in superzoom lens capable of capturing wide angle and zoom shots, for near and far subjects; landscapes, travel, wildlife, sports, you name it.

If you want an all-in-one camera and lens for just about every situation, a bridge camera could be your best bet. However, these versatile shooters might not be for everyone. The lens with wide zoom range cannot compare to the quality of prime lenses, plus the typically small sensors used have an adverse impact on image quality, especially in low light. However, our top picks the Sony RX10 IV and Panasonic Lumix FZ2000 / FZ2500 pack a 1-inch sensor bigger than most rivals.

You won’t be getting the same image quality as with the best DSLR cameras or the best mirrorless cameras with top end prime lenses, but you get unparalleled versatility. Our list of the best bridge cameras includes the latest models, plus slightly older ones that still boast impressive specs but are a little more affordable. There’s not much action in the bridge camera in 2024, but you can be sure that we've tested the best options from numerous manufacturers to make sure you're getting the most reliable reviews and up-to-date information. At the end of the guide you’ll also find useful additional product info, buying advice and the best deals.

Written by

Written by

Timothy Coleman

Tim is TechRadar's Cameras editor, with over 15 years in the photo video industry and most of those in the world of tech journalism, Tim has developed a deeply technical knowledge and practical experience with all things camera related. He’s also worked in video production with clients including Canon, and volunteers his spare time to consult a non-profit, diverse stories team based in Nairobi.

The quick list

Short on time? Use our quick round-up below to find the best bridge camera for you. Use the links to jump to our full write-ups for more in-depth coverage.

• ^ Back to the top

The best Bridge Cameras in 2024

Below, you'll find full write-ups for each of the best bridge cameras in our list and a link to a full review. We've tested each one extensively, so you can be sure that our recommendations can be trusted.

The best premium bridge camera

For those looking to buy a powerful all-in-one solution, you won't find anything better than the RX10 IV. Featuring a hugely flexible 24-600mm f/2.4-4 zoom lens, photographers will benefit from a generous amount of 'reach' when unable to get close to their subject. The RX10 IV builds on the RX10 III with an overhauled AF system that now does justice to the rest of the camera, and the 1-inch, 20.1 MP sensor is capable of achieving excellent levels of detail. 

Alongside incredible zoom capabilities and amazing auto focus, the RX10 IV also delivers on the video front. Outstanding 4K capabilities are not commonplace in bridge cameras, but this seems to buck the trend. It's quite bulky for a bridge camera, and there's no getting away from the hefty price, but the RX10 IV is virtually in a league of its own and is perhaps even deserving of a better name than 'bridge'. 

• Read our in-depth Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV review

• ^ Back to the top

The best bridge camera for most people

If your budget doesn't quite stretch to RX10 IV levels but you still want something top-quality, flexible and with great image quality, the Panasonic Lumix FZ2000 (known as the FZ2500 in the US) is an excellent choice. It uses a 1-inch sensor alongside a Venus processing engine, which makes it particularly good for recording video. 30p and 24p frame rates are available at the top resolution, and 60p if you drop it to 1080p. One of our favourite video features is the ability to use the Live Cropping feature, which allows users to pan or zoom across the frame without manually having to do so, with the camera outputting the results in Full HD quality.

The FZ2000/FZ2500 is also a very capable stills camera. Despite the zoom topping out at 480mm equivalent, a range that is relatively short for a bridge camera, you'll still find it to be plenty for all but the most extreme everyday use. We'd certainly sacrifice a little zoom range for better and faster optics, and we love the FZ2000 because it delivers both image quality and zoom range.

• Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix FZ2000 / FZ2500 review

• ^ Back to the top

The best value bridge camera

Canon's PowerShot SX70 HS is what we'd consider a more conventional bridge camera than those found in the top four. That's because it uses a smaller 1/2.3-inch sensor, which gives you the advantage of a ginormous 65x optical zoom range. You still get full manual control, along with other great features such as a fully articulated screen (it lacks touch sensitivity though), a decent electronic viewfinder, and the ability to shoot in raw format. In-built Wi-Fi and NFC are additional bonuses. 

This is a classic all-rounder that would suit those looking for something relatively small and light for trips such as safaris, where that big zoom comes into its own. A bugbear is having to activate the viewfinder manually since there's no sensor, but otherwise it's a solid performer. Image quality is very good, with the image stabilization system doing a good job of keeping captures even at the extreme end of the telephoto lens sharp. Shooting at a wide angle and low light are not this camera's forte, but there's good autofocus performance and speedy operation to compensate.

• Read our in-depth Canon PowerShot SX70 HS review

• ^ Back to the top

The best bridge camera for zoom

The Coolpix P1000 is the follow-up to the P900 and stretches what we’ve come to expect from superzoom cameras a little bit further. It's all down to the lens, that packs a massive 125x optical zoom range, equivalent to 24-3000mm in 35mm terms. Photographers will be hard pushed to find an object that they can't zoom in on, be it wildlife or even the moon. 

If you absolutely need a camera with a 3000mm-equivalent lens, the fact that the P1000 is alone in offering this makes your decision easy. Unfortunately, there are quite a few areas of weakness, including the huge body, less-than-reliable autofocus, a sub-standard LCD, and operational strifes.

• Read our in-depth Nikon Coolpix P1000 review

• ^ Back to the top

The best cheap bridge camera

The Lumix FZ80 (known as the Lumix FZ82 outside the US) might be one of the most affordable bridge cameras here, but it still packs quite a punch. The zoom range is very impressive, going from an ultra-wide 20mm through to a staggering 1200mm, and benefits from an effective image stabilization system. 

There's also 4K recording with Panasonic's 4K Photo, which can shoot 8MP images at 30fps, meaning you should never miss that split-second moment. It's also very easy to use, with an intuitive touchscreen. The viewfinder could be better (and there's no eye sensor to automatically switch between the viewfinder and rear screen), while high-ISO performance can't match that of larger-sensor (and more expensive) rivals. That said, this is one of the best budget bridge cameras around.

• Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix FZ80 / FZ82 review

• ^ Back to the top

The best RX10 IV alternative bridge camera

As is often the case with Sony, you can make decent savings if you look towards its extensive back-catalogue. In this case, if you can live without the advanced AF system and other performance advantages offered by the RX10 IV, the RX10 III is still worth a look. The design is pretty much identical to the RX10 IV, and you've got the same 24-600mm f/2.4-4 lens that delivers a very respectable zoom range.

Sony's incredible 1-inch sensor produces class-leading image quality as well as amazing 4K and HD video. Unfortunately, there are some compromises. The AF is a bit pedestrian compared to the latest model, and there's no touchscreen control or the ability to shoot at an impressive 24fps. On balance, as long as you buy this camera knowing its weaknesses, you'll be very pleased with what it is capable of producing.

• Read our in-depth Sony Cyber-shot RX10 III review

• ^ Back to the top

How to choose the best bridge camera for you

How we test Bridge Cameras

When spending such a significant amount of money you want to make sure you're buying something that will not only last well but also fit your particular requirements. To help you make an informed decision, we have spent countless hours thoroughly testing every camera in this guide.

The first part of our tests involves handling the camera and getting a feel for its design and build quality. By using the camera on a tripod and handheld we are able to assess who the camera is designed for and whether it'll stand the test of time.

Following on from this we put a formatted SD card into the camera and shoot both RAW and JPEG formats. We take RAW images into an editing application such as Lightroom to see how far we can adjust exposure, highlights, and shadows.

Burst shooting is tested by using our test settings (1/250 sec, ISO 200, continuous AF) before shooting a series of frames in front of a stopwatch to see if it lives up to its advertised speeds. 

Another vital element in terms of performance is the camera's ability to quickly find focus in autofocus mode. We test this using different types of subjects as well as in various lighting conditions. Alongside this we'll shoot a variety of different photos and put metering through its paces. In all of this we're also assessing the camera's ability to handle noise.

In terms of battery life, we use the camera from full charge to empty, and then make a note of the number of shots that it was able to take. This is then compared to the camera's CIPA rating. As most camera's have video functionality now, we'll also put it into video mode and test its resolutions, frame rates, and live view mode.

With all of this in mind, we write a final verdict that brings everything together.

Bridge cameras  'bridge' the gap between simple point-and-shoot cameras and interchangeable-lens cameras such as DSLRs and mirrorless. Their selling point is their versatility and excellent DSLR-style handling. You get a built-in superzoom lens capable of capturing wide angle and zoom shots, for near and far subjects; landscapes, travel, wildlife, sports, you name it.

If you want an all-in-one camera and lens for just about every situation, a bridge camera could be your best bet. However, these versatile shooters might not be for everyone. The wide zoom range cannot compare to the quality of prime lenses, plus the typically small sensors used have an adverse impact on image quality, especially in low light. However, our top picks the Sony RX10 IV and Panasonic Lumix FZ2000 / FZ2500 pack a 1-inch sensor bigger than most rivals.

You won’t be getting the same image quality as with the best DSLR cameras or the best mirrorless cameras with top end prime lenses, but you get unparalleled versatility. Our list of the best bridge cameras includes the latest models, plus slightly older ones that still boast impressive specs but are a little more affordable. There’s not much action in the bridge camera in 2024, but you can be sure that we've tested the best options from numerous manufacturers to make sure you're getting the most reliable reviews and up-to-date information. At the end of the guide you’ll also find useful additional product info, buying advice and the best deals.

Written by

Written by

Timothy Coleman

Tim is TechRadar's Cameras editor, with over 15 years in the photo video industry and most of those in the world of tech journalism, Tim has developed a deeply technical knowledge and practical experience with all things camera related. He’s also worked in video production with clients including Canon, and volunteers his spare time to consult a non-profit, diverse stories team based in Nairobi.

The quick list

Short on time? Use our quick round-up below to find the best bridge camera for you. Use the links to jump to our full write-ups for more in-depth coverage.

• ^ Back to the top

The best Bridge Cameras in 2024

Below, you'll find full write-ups for each of the best bridge cameras in our list and a link to a full review. We've tested each one extensively, so you can be sure that our recommendations can be trusted.

The best premium bridge camera

For those looking for a powerful all-in-one solution, you won't find anything better than the  RX10 IV. Featuring a hugely flexible 24-600mm f/2.4-4 zoom lens, the RX10 IV builds on the RX10 III with an overhauled AF system that now does justice to the rest of the camera, while the 1-inch, 20.1MP sensor is capable of achieving excellent levels of detail. It's quite bulky for a bridge camera, and there's no getting away from the hefty price, but the RX10 IV is virtually in a league of its own and is perhaps even deserving of a better name than 'bridge'. 

• Read our in-depth Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV review

• ^ Back to the top

The best bridge camera for most people

If your budget doesn't quite stretch to RX10 IV levels but you still want something top-quality, flexible and with great image quality, the Panasonic Lumix FZ2000 (known as the FZ2500 in the US) is an excellent choice. Its 1-inch sensor is paired with a Venus processing engine, which makes it capable of producing amazing 4K video. Recording capabilities at the top resolution include 30p and 24p frame rates, with 60p frame rates available at 1080p. One of the features we love is the Live Cropping feature, which enables users to pan or zoom across the frame without manually having to do so.

The FZ2000/FZ2500 is not just a video camera, though. It also produces excellent stills. The zoom tops out at 480mm equivalent, which is relatively short for a bridge camera, but that's still plenty for all but the most extreme everyday use. We'd certainly sacrifice a little zoom range for better and faster optics, and we love the FZ2000 because it delivers both image quality and zoom range. If you're looking for something a bit cheaper, the older FZ1000 (below) is also worth a look, as is its successor, the FZ1000 II.

• Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix FZ2000 / FZ2500 review

• ^ Back to the top

The best value bridge camera

Canon's PowerShot SX70 HS is what we'd consider a more conventional bridge camera than those found in the top four. That's because it uses a smaller 1/2.3-inch sensor, which gives you the advantage of a ginormous 65x optical zoom range. You still get full manual control, along with other great features such as a fully articulated screen (it lacks touch sensitivity, though), a decent electronic viewfinder, and the ability to shoot in raw format. In-built Wi-Fi and NFC are additional bonuses.

This is a classic all-rounder that would suit those looking for something relatively small and light for trips such as safaris, where that big zoom comes into its own. A bugbear is having to activate the viewfinder manually since there's no sensor, but otherwise it's a solid performer. Image quality is very good, with the image stabilization system doing a good job of keeping captures even at the extreme end of the telephoto lens sharp. Shooting at a wide angle and low light are not this camera's forte, but there's good autofocus performance and speedy operation to compensate.

• Read our in-depth Canon PowerShot SX70 HS review

• ^ Back to the top

The best bridge camera for zoom

The Coolpix P1000 is the follow-up to the P900 and stretches what we’ve come to expect from superzoom cameras a little bit further. It's all down to the lens, that packs a massive 125x optical zoom range, equivalent to 24-3000mm in 35mm terms. Photographers will be hard pushed to find an object that they can't zoom in on, be it wildlife or even the moon. If you absolutely need a camera with a 3000mm-equivalent lens, the fact that the P1000 is alone in offering this makes your decision easy.

Unless you really need one of the longest zoom lens available you'll probably find the P1000 lacking in too many areas. The body is oversized, the autofocus is far from reliable, and the LCD is sub-standard. You might be able to overlook these operational strifes for the benefit of capturing that object in the far off distance but only you'll be able to decide that.

• Read our in-depth Nikon Coolpix P1000 review

• ^ Back to the top

The best cheap bridge camera

The Lumix FZ80 (known as the Lumix FZ82 outside the US) might be one of the most affordable bridge cameras here, but it still packs quite a punch. The zoom range is very impressive, going from an ultra-wide 20mm through to a staggering 1200mm, and it benefits from an effective image stabilization system. 

There's also 4K recording with Panasonic's 4K Photo, which can shoot 8MP images at 30fps, meaning you should never miss that split-second moment. It's also very easy to use, with an intuitive touchscreen. The viewfinder could be better (and there's no eye sensor to automatically switch between the viewfinder and rear screen), while high-ISO performance can't match that of larger-sensor (and more expensive) rivals. That said, this is one of the best budget bridge cameras around.

• Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix FZ80 / FZ82 review

• ^ Back to the top

The best RX10 IV alternative bridge camera

As is often the case with Sony, you can make decent savings if you look towards its extensive back-catalogue. In this case, if you can live without the advanced AF system and other performance advantages offered by the RX10 IV, the RX10 III is still worth a look. Sony's incredible 1-inch sensor delivers class-leading image quality, and its video functionality (4K and HD) is also superb.

The design is pretty much identical to the RX10 IV, and you've got the same 24-600mm f/2.4-4 lens. All of this results in a large and relatively heavy unit, and unfortunately, the AF is a bit pedestrian compared to the latest model. There's also no touchscreen control or the ability to shoot at 24fps.

• Read our in-depth Sony Cyber-shot RX10 III review

• ^ Back to the top

How to choose the best bridge camera for you

How we test Bridge Cameras

When spending such a significant amount of money you want to make sure you're buying something that will not only last well but also fit your particular requirements. To help you make an informed decision, we have spent countless hours thoroughly testing every camera in this guide.

The first part of our tests involves handling the camera and getting a feel for its design and build quality. By using the camera on a tripod and handheld we are able to assess who the camera is designed for and whether it'll stand the test of time.

Following on from this we put a formatted SD card into the camera and shoot both RAW and JPEG formats. We take RAW images into an editing application such as Lightroom to see how far we can adjust exposure, highlights, and shadows.

Burst shooting is tested by using our test settings (1/250 sec, ISO 200, continuous AF) before shooting a series of frames in front of a stopwatch to see if it lives up to its advertised speeds. 

Another vital element in terms of performance is the camera's ability to quickly find focus in autofocus mode. We test this using different types of subjects as well as in various lighting conditions. Alongside this we'll shoot a variety of different photos and put metering through its paces. In all of this we're also assessing the camera's ability to handle noise.

In terms of battery life, we use the camera from full charge to empty, and then make a note of the number of shots that it was able to take. This is then compared to the camera's CIPA rating. As most camera's have video functionality now, we'll also put it into video mode and test its resolutions, frame rates, and live view mode.

With all of this in mind, we write a final verdict that brings everything together.

Bridge cameras  'bridge' the gap between simple point-and-shoot cameras and interchangeable-lens cameras such as DSLRs and mirrorless. Their selling point is their versatility and excellent DSLR-style handling. You get a built-in superzoom lens capable of capturing wide angle and zoom shots, for near and far subjects; landscapes, travel, wildlife, sports, you name it.

If you want an all-in-one camera and lens for just about every situation, a bridge camera could be your best bet. However, these versatile shooters might not be for everyone. The wide zoom range cannot compare to the quality of prime lenses, plus the typically small sensors used have an adverse impact on image quality, especially in low light. However, our top picks the Sony RX10 IV and Panasonic Lumix FZ2000 / FZ2500 pack a 1-inch sensor bigger than most rivals.

You won’t be getting the same image quality as with the best DSLR cameras or the best mirrorless cameras with top end prime lenses, but you get unparalleled versatility. Our list of the best bridge cameras includes the latest models, plus slightly older ones that still boast impressive specs but are a little more affordable. There’s not much action in the bridge camera in 2024, but you can be sure that we've tested the best options from numerous manufacturers to make sure you're getting the most reliable reviews and up-to-date information. At the end of the guide you’ll also find useful additional product info, buying advice and the best deals.

Written by

Written by

Timothy Coleman

Tim is TechRadar's Cameras editor, with over 15 years in the photo video industry and most of those in the world of tech journalism, Tim has developed a deeply technical knowledge and practical experience with all things camera related. He’s also worked in video production with clients including Canon, and volunteers his spare time to consult a non-profit, diverse stories team based in Nairobi.

The quick list

Short on time? Use our quick round-up below to find the best bridge camera for you. Use the links to jump to our full write-ups for more in-depth coverage.

• ^ Back to the top

The best Bridge Cameras in 2024

Below, you'll find full write-ups for each of the best bridge cameras in our list and a link to a full review. We've tested each one extensively, so you can be sure that our recommendations can be trusted.

The best premium bridge camera

For those looking for a powerful all-in-one solution, you won't find better than the  RX10 IV. Featuring a hugely flexible 24-600mm f/2.4-4 zoom lens, the RX10 IV builds on the RX10 III with an overhauled AF system that now does justice to the rest of the camera, while the 1-inch, 20.1MP sensor is capable of achieving excellent levels of detail. It's quite bulky for a bridge camera, and there's no getting away from the hefty price, but the RX10 IV is virtually in a league of its own and is perhaps even deserving of a better name than 'bridge'. 

• Read our in-depth Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV review

• ^ Back to the top

The best bridge camera for most people

If your budget doesn't quite stretch to RX10 IV levels but you still want something top-quality, flexible and with great image quality, the Panasonic Lumix FZ2000 (known as the FZ2500 in the US) is an excellent choice. It uses a 1-inch sensor, and while the zoom tops out at 480mm equivalent, which is relatively short for a bridge camera, that's still plenty for all but the most extreme everyday use. We'd certainly sacrifice a little zoom range for better and faster optics, and we love the FZ2000 because it delivers both image quality and zoom range. If you're looking for something a bit cheaper, the older FZ1000 (below) is also worth a look, as is its successor, the FZ1000 II.

• Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix FZ2000 / FZ2500 review

• ^ Back to the top

The best value bridge camera

Canon's PowerShot SX70 HS is what we'd consider a more conventional bridge camera than those found in the top four. That's because it uses a smaller 1/2.3-inch sensor which gives you the advantage of a ginormous 65x optical zoom range. You still get full manual control, along with other great features such as an fully articulated screen (it lacks touch sensitivity though), a decent electronic viewfinder and the ability to shoot in raw format. In-built Wi-Fi and NFC is another bonus. This is a classic all-rounder which would suit those looking for something relatively small and light for trips such as safaris, where that big zoom comes into its own. A bugbear is having to activate the viewfinder manually since there's no sensor, but otherwise it's a solid performer. Image quality is very good, with the image stabilization system doing a good job of keeping captures even at the extreme end of the telephoto lens sharp. Shooting at the wide-angle and low-light are not this camera's forte, but there's good autofocus performance and speedy operation to compensate.

• Read our in-depth Canon PowerShot SX70 HS review

• ^ Back to the top

The best bridge camera for zoom

The Coolpix P1000 is the follow-up to the P900 and stretches what we’ve come to expect from superzoom cameras that bit further. The reason is the lens, with the P1000 packing in a massive 125x optical zoom range equivalent to 24-3000mm in 35mm terms, it has the potential to home in on the most distant subjects you’d realistically want to capture, be it wildlife or the Moon. If you absolutely need a camera with a 3000mm-equivalent lens, the fact that the P1000 is alone in offering this makes your decision easy. With a huge body, less-than-reliable autofocus, a sub-standard LCD and operational strifes, however, its appeal for anything else is more limited.

• Read our in-depth Nikon Coolpix P1000 review

• ^ Back to the top

The best cheap bridge camera

The Lumix FZ80 (known as the Lumix FZ82 outside the US) might be one of the most affordable bridge cameras here, but it still packs quite a punch. The zoom range is very impressive, going from an ultra-wide 20mm through to a staggering 1200mm, and benefits from an effective image stabilization system. There's also 4K recording with Panasonic's 4K Photo, which can shoot 8MP images at 30fps, meaning you should never miss that split-second moment. It's also very easy to use, with an intuitive touchscreen. The viewfinder could be better (and there's no eye sensor to automatically switch between the viewfinder and rear screen), while high-ISO performance can't match that of larger-sensor (and more expensive) rivals. That said, this is one of the best budget bridge cameras around.

• Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix FZ80 / FZ82 review

• ^ Back to the top

The best RX10 IV alternative bridge camera

As is often the case with Sony, you can make decent savings if you look towards its extensive back-catalogue. In this case, if you can live without the advanced AF system and other performance advantages offered by the RX10 IV, the RX10 III is still worth a look. The design is pretty much identical to the RX10 IV, and you've got the same 24-600mm f/2.4-4 lens. What's the compromise? Well, the AF is a bit pedestrian compared to the latest model, while there's no touchscreen control or the ability to shoot at an impressive 24fps. 

• Read our in-depth Sony Cyber-shot RX10 III review

• ^ Back to the top

How to choose the best bridge camera for you

How we test Bridge Cameras

When spending such a significant amount of money you want to make sure you're buying something that will not only last well but also fit your particular requirements. To help you make an informed decision, we have spent countless hours thoroughly testing every camera in this guide.

The first part of our tests involves handling the camera and getting a feel for its design and build quality. By using the camera on a tripod and handheld we are able to assess who the camera is designed for and whether it'll stand the test of time.

Following on from this we put a formatted SD card into the camera and shoot both RAW and JPEG formats. We take RAW images into an editing application such as Lightroom to see how far we can adjust exposure, highlights, and shadows.

Burst shooting is tested by using our test settings (1/250 sec, ISO 200, continuous AF) before shooting a series of frames in front of a stopwatch to see if it lives up to its advertised speeds. 

Another vital element in terms of performance is the camera's ability to quickly find focus in autofocus mode. We test this using different types of subjects as well as in various lighting conditions. Alongside this we'll shoot a variety of different photos and put metering through its paces. In all of this we're also assessing the camera's ability to handle noise.

In terms of battery life, we use the camera from full charge to empty, and then make a note of the number of shots that it was able to take. This is then compared to the camera's CIPA rating. As most camera's have video functionality now, we'll also put it into video mode and test its resolutions, frame rates, and live view mode.

With all of this in mind, we write a final verdict that brings everything together.