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10 Best Digital Cameras Under 100 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

KODAK PIXPRO Friendly Zoom FZ45-RD 16MP Digital Camera with 4X Optical Zoom 27mm Wide Angle and 2.7" LCD Screen (Red)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,135
Zoom
Image Stabilization
Battery Life

Most important from
4413 reviews

Zoom
The zoom feature works well, allowing for close-up shots without compromising on quality.
Image Stabilization
There are occasional issues with blurred photos and unwanted blank images appearing alongside the downloaded photos.
Battery Life
The use of regular AA rechargeable batteries is a convenient feature, eliminating the need for proprietary batteries.
Build Quality and Size
It's compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around and slip into your pocket without adding much bulk.

The KODAK PIXPRO Friendly Zoom FZ45-RD is an affordable digital camera that offers some solid features for its price point. With a 16MP CMOS sensor, it can capture decent-quality photos suitable for casual photography. The 4X optical zoom and 27mm wide-angle lens provide flexibility for capturing both close-up and wide shots, which is useful for various photography situations. The camera also supports 1080p Full HD video, making it a viable option for those interested in vlogging or recording high-definition videos on a budget.

The 2.7-inch LCD screen allows for easy framing and reviewing of shots, although it might be a bit small for some users who prefer larger displays. Image stabilization is a valuable feature that helps reduce blurriness in photos, especially in low-light conditions or when using the zoom. However, the camera's maximum ISO sensitivity of 100 may limit its performance in very low-light settings. The build quality appears to be solid, and its compact size makes it convenient to carry around. The camera is compatible with SD cards up to 512GB, providing ample storage for photos and videos.

The maximum aperture of 2.8mm may not offer the best performance in terms of depth of field and low-light capabilities compared to higher-end models. Nevertheless, for those seeking an inexpensive digital camera with essential features and decent performance, the KODAK PIXPRO Friendly Zoom FZ45-RD is a worthy option.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,135
Zoom
Image Stabilization
Battery Life

Most important from
4413 reviews

Zoom
The zoom feature works well, allowing for close-up shots without compromising on quality.
Image Stabilization
There are occasional issues with blurred photos and unwanted blank images appearing alongside the downloaded photos.
Battery Life
The use of regular AA rechargeable batteries is a convenient feature, eliminating the need for proprietary batteries.
Build Quality and Size
It's compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around and slip into your pocket without adding much bulk.
#2

Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 Digital Camera w/ 12x Optical Zoom and Image Stabilization - Wi-Fi & NFC Enabled (Silver)

Rating
9.7
Build Quality and Size
Zoom
Video Quality

Most important from
1601 reviews

Build Quality and Size
The compact size is perfect for carrying everywhere and capturing quick snapshots without hassle.
Zoom
The 12x zoom feature promises flexibility, although some users are still exploring its full potential.
Video Quality
Picture and video quality impress for a camera in this price range, making it a great value.

The Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 is a compact digital camera featuring a solid 20.2-megapixel CMOS sensor, which helps capture detailed photos suitable for everyday snapshots. Its 12x optical zoom combined with optical image stabilization makes it easier to take clear pictures even when zoomed in or shooting handheld, which is great for casual users wanting flexibility without complex setups.

This camera shoots Full HD 1080p video, providing good video quality for social sharing or family moments, although zoom doesn’t work during video recording. The 3-inch LCD screen is large and bright enough for easy framing and reviewing shots, and the built-in Wi-Fi and NFC make sharing photos quick and simple. The sensor is relatively small (1/2.3 inch), which can limit low-light performance compared to higher-end models, and the battery is a modest 600 mAh, so frequent recharging may be necessary when shooting extensively.

Lightweight and pocket-friendly, the camera is not water-resistant, so it requires some care outdoors. It includes helpful creative modes like Hybrid Auto and Creative Shot, adding fun effects without needing technical skills. This camera is well-suited for beginners or casual photographers looking for an affordable, easy-to-use point-and-shoot with decent zoom and image quality but may not fulfill the needs of those seeking advanced low-light performance or professional-grade features.

Rating
9.7
Build Quality and Size
Zoom
Video Quality

Most important from
1601 reviews

Build Quality and Size
The compact size is perfect for carrying everywhere and capturing quick snapshots without hassle.
Zoom
The 12x zoom feature promises flexibility, although some users are still exploring its full potential.
Video Quality
Picture and video quality impress for a camera in this price range, making it a great value.
#3

KODAK PIXPRO FZ55-RD 16MP Digital Camera 5X Optical Zoom 28mm Wide Angle 1080P Full HD Video 2.7" LCD Vlogging Camera (Red) Packaging May Vary

Rating
9.4
Megapixels
Zoom
Video Quality

Most important from
5201 reviews

Megapixels
Picture quality is impressive for the price, with high-quality photographs that exceeded expectations.
Zoom
Video recording capabilities are decent, although zooming in can compromise video quality.
Video Quality
Video recording capabilities are decent, although zooming in can compromise video quality.
Battery Life
The rechargeable battery is a significant plus, eliminating the need to carry spare AAs.
Build Quality and Size
A compact, portable camera that's perfect for travel, allowing you to keep your phone safe while still capturing great photos.

The KODAK PIXPRO FZ55 is an affordable digital camera that aims to cater to casual photographers looking for simplicity and decent performance under $100. With a 16MP CMOS sensor, it captures clear images suitable for everyday use, while the 5X optical zoom and 28mm wide-angle lens allow for a variety of shooting scenarios, from landscapes to close-ups.

One of the standout features is its ability to record 1080P Full HD video, making it a solid option for vlogging or capturing special moments in motion. The camera is equipped with a 2.7-inch LCD screen, which, though on the smaller side, still provides a decent interface for previewing shots and navigating settings. The lightweight and compact design adds to its portability, making it easy to carry around.

There are some drawbacks to consider. The digital image stabilization, while helpful, may not be as effective as optical stabilization found in higher-end models, especially in challenging shooting conditions. Battery life, while decent, might not last through a full day of heavy use, so keeping a backup battery handy could be wise. Additionally, the camera's autofocus system could be slow in certain situations, which may require some patience.

For those looking for a straightforward, no-frills camera for basic photography and video recording, the KODAK PIXPRO FZ55 could be a good fit. However, if you're seeking advanced features or professional-quality images, you might want to consider investing a bit more in a higher-end model.

Rating
9.4
Megapixels
Zoom
Video Quality

Most important from
5201 reviews

Megapixels
Picture quality is impressive for the price, with high-quality photographs that exceeded expectations.
Zoom
Video recording capabilities are decent, although zooming in can compromise video quality.
Video Quality
Video recording capabilities are decent, although zooming in can compromise video quality.
Battery Life
The rechargeable battery is a significant plus, eliminating the need to carry spare AAs.
Build Quality and Size
A compact, portable camera that's perfect for travel, allowing you to keep your phone safe while still capturing great photos.

Buying Guide for the Best Digital Cameras Under 100

When shopping for a digital camera under $100, it's important to focus on the key specifications that will impact your photography experience. While you may not get the most advanced features in this price range, you can still find a camera that meets your needs for casual photography, travel, or family events. Here are the key specs to consider and how to choose the best fit for you.
MegapixelsMegapixels (MP) refer to the resolution of the camera's sensor, which determines the detail and clarity of your photos. Higher megapixels mean more detail, but for casual use, anything between 10-16 MP is usually sufficient. If you plan to print large photos or crop images frequently, aim for the higher end of this range. For social media and small prints, even 10 MP will do the job.
ZoomZoom capability is important for capturing distant subjects. Optical zoom uses the camera's lens to magnify the image, maintaining quality, while digital zoom enlarges the image electronically, often reducing quality. Look for a camera with at least 3x optical zoom for versatility. If you enjoy nature photography or sports, a higher optical zoom (5x or more) will be beneficial.
Sensor SizeThe sensor size affects image quality, especially in low light conditions. Larger sensors capture more light, resulting in better photos. In this price range, most cameras will have smaller sensors, but try to find one with a 1/2.3-inch sensor or larger for better performance. If you often shoot indoors or in low light, prioritize a larger sensor.
Image StabilizationImage stabilization helps reduce blur caused by camera shake, which is especially useful in low light or when using zoom. Optical image stabilization is more effective than digital stabilization. If you have unsteady hands or plan to shoot videos, look for a camera with optical image stabilization to ensure clearer images and smoother videos.
Video QualityVideo quality is measured in resolution, with Full HD (1080p) being the standard for clear, detailed videos. Some budget cameras may only offer 720p, which is still acceptable for casual use. If you plan to record a lot of videos, aim for a camera with at least 1080p resolution. For occasional video clips, 720p will suffice.
Battery LifeBattery life determines how long you can use the camera before needing to recharge or replace the batteries. Look for a camera that offers at least 200 shots per charge for convenience. If you plan to use the camera for extended periods, such as during travel or events, consider one with longer battery life or the option to use easily replaceable AA batteries.
Build Quality and SizeThe build quality and size of the camera affect its portability and durability. Compact, lightweight cameras are easier to carry around, making them ideal for travel and everyday use. Ensure the camera feels sturdy and comfortable in your hands. If you need a camera for outdoor activities, look for one with a rugged design or water resistance.

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