10 Best Inexpensive Digital Cameras 2025 in the United States

The Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 is a compact and budget-friendly digital camera that offers a solid 20.2-megapixel resolution with a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, which is typical for cameras in this price range and is good enough for everyday photos and casual photography. It features a 12x optical zoom, allowing you to capture subjects at a distance with decent clarity, while the optical image stabilization helps reduce blur from hand movement, especially useful when zoomed in or shooting in low light. Video quality is decent with Full HD 1080p recording, making it suitable for casual video capturing though zooming is disabled during video recording.

The camera includes built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for easy wireless sharing of photos and videos, which is a convenient feature often missing on inexpensive cameras. Battery life is moderate with a 600 mAh lithium-ion battery, enough for typical day outings but may need recharging for extended use. The 3-inch fixed LCD screen is bright and easy to view from different angles, though there’s no electronic viewfinder. Build quality feels lightweight and compact, making it very portable but not rugged or weather-resistant.

Some downsides include limited low-light performance compared to more advanced models, no waterproofing, and no touchscreen despite mentioning capacitive type, which may be a specification mismatch. The hybrid auto mode and creative shot features add some fun automatic options for casual users. This camera is well suited for beginners or casual photographers wanting a simple, easy-to-carry point-and-shoot with good zoom and image stabilization; however, those needing more advanced controls, better low-light ability, or ruggedness might want to consider other options.

The Kodak PIXPRO FZ55-BL is a budget-friendly digital camera suitable for casual photography and basic vlogging. It features a 16MP CMOS sensor that provides enough detail for everyday photos, including prints and social media sharing. Its 1/2.3-inch sensor is common among inexpensive compact cameras, though it may face challenges in low-light conditions. The 5X optical zoom with a 28mm wide-angle lens offers a versatile range for landscapes and portraits but does not support extremely close zooming. Image stabilization is digital rather than optical, which helps reduce blur but is less effective than in higher-end models, particularly at full zoom.

For video recording, it supports 1080p Full HD, making it suitable for casual videos and vlogging, but it lacks 4K recording and advanced video features. The 2.7-inch LCD screen is clear enough for framing shots and reviewing photos, though it is smaller than many modern cameras. Battery life is adequate for a day of shooting with its rechargeable lithium-ion battery, though carrying a spare battery may be beneficial for extended use. Connectivity options include USB and HDMI, facilitating easy transfer of photos and videos to a computer or TV, but it does not offer Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for wireless sharing.

The camera’s compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry, though the plastic construction feels basic. Its controls and autofocus system are straightforward, making it a good option for beginners or intermediate users learning photography fundamentals. The Kodak PIXPRO FZ55-BL represents a solid choice for those seeking an affordable, easy-to-use camera capable of capturing photos and Full HD videos without complex features or demands for extensive zoom.

The Sony ZV-1F Vlog Camera is designed with content creators and vloggers in mind, making it an appealing option in the inexpensive digital camera category. One of its standout features is the ultra-wide 20mm lens, which captures more of your surroundings, great for vlogging without needing a more complex setup. The large 1” sensor paired with an F2 lens performs well in low-light conditions and allows for beautiful background blur, enhancing the professional feel of your videos and photos.

Autofocus capabilities are impressive, thanks to Eye-AF and tracking technology, ensuring that your subject remains sharp and clear, which is crucial when you're on the move. The side-articulating touchscreen is user-friendly, allowing for easy framing of selfies or group shots, which is essential for vloggers who often shoot themselves.

The camera supports 4K video quality, making it suitable for high-definition content creation, but its compact size may compromise on build quality compared to bulkier models. It's lightweight (only 9 ounces), which is a plus for portability but may feel less sturdy to some users. In terms of connectivity, it offers options that are satisfactory for most vloggers, though more advanced users might find it lacking in some features.