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10 Best Point and Shoot Cameras 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Canon Powershot SX740 HS Digital Camera (Black)

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,465
Connectivity
Size and Weight

Most important from
156 reviews

Connectivity
The Bluetooth option using the Canon app allows for quick and easy photo downloads to your phone.
Size and Weight
Great size for everyday use, easily fits in a purse and can be carried anywhere.

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS is a point-and-shoot camera that offers substantial features in a compact package. With its 20.3 megapixel CMOS sensor, it provides high-resolution images suitable for both everyday photography and more detailed captures. The standout feature is the powerful 40x optical zoom, which is ideal for capturing distant subjects without losing image quality. It also incorporates optical image stabilization, ensuring that your photos and videos remain sharp, even when using the zoom function at its maximum range.

The camera supports 4K video recording, allowing for high-quality video capture, and the 4K time-lapse movie feature adds creative versatility for users who enjoy video projects. The 3-inch LCD screen, which tilts 180 degrees, is useful for selfies and vlogging. Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enhance the connectivity options, making it easy to transfer photos and videos to other devices or share them on social media. The DIGIC 8 image processor supports high-speed continuous shooting at up to 10 frames per second, which is great for capturing fast-moving subjects.

However, the camera does have some limitations. The battery life may not be sufficient for extended shooting sessions, so carrying a spare battery could be necessary. Additionally, while the camera is packed with features, it lacks advanced manual controls that more experienced photographers might miss. The lack of an audio recording feature in video mode could be a drawback for vloggers or those looking to capture high-quality sound with their videos. The camera's size and weight are relatively compact, making it convenient for travel and everyday use. Despite its few shortcomings, the Canon PowerShot SX740 HS is a solid choice for those seeking a versatile and powerful point-and-shoot camera with excellent zoom capabilities and good image quality.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,465
Connectivity
Size and Weight

Most important from
156 reviews

Connectivity
The Bluetooth option using the Canon app allows for quick and easy photo downloads to your phone.
Size and Weight
Great size for everyday use, easily fits in a purse and can be carried anywhere.
#2

Digital Camera, FHD 1080P Digital Point and Shoot Camera with 16X Zoom Anti Shake, Compact Small Camera for Boys Girls Kids

Rating
10.0
Battery Life
Size and Weight

Most important from
7807 reviews

Battery Life
The battery life is impressive – hundreds of photos on a single charge.
Size and Weight
The build is solid but lightweight, making it easy to carry around all day.

The CAMKORY Digital Point and Shoot Camera is designed for beginners, particularly kids, offering a straightforward and enjoyable photography experience. It captures high-quality 44MP photos and Full HD 1080P videos, making it a suitable choice for casual photography. The 16X digital zoom allows for capturing distant subjects, although it lacks optical zoom, which might limit image clarity at higher zoom levels. The CMOS sensor helps in producing decent images with natural colors without needing manual adjustments, making it user-friendly for novices.

The camera uses digital image stabilization rather than optical, which might not be as effective in reducing blurriness during movement or low light conditions. The compact size and lightweight build make it highly portable, perfect for travel and everyday use. The camera comes with two lithium-ion batteries, offering good battery life and an automatic turn-off feature to save energy. Connectivity is limited to USB, which may restrict immediate sharing options but is sufficient for transferring files.

The large 2.8-inch LCD screen and easy-to-navigate interface make it accessible for young users. While it’s not water-resistant and lacks advanced features found in higher-end cameras, it’s a solid choice for kids and beginners looking to explore photography. Additionally, the package includes useful accessories like an SD card, lanyard, and storage bag, making it a comprehensive gift option. Despite minor limitations, such as no optical viewfinder and basic autofocus, this camera is ideal for novice users seeking a simple and fun way to capture memories.

Rating
10.0
Battery Life
Size and Weight

Most important from
7807 reviews

Battery Life
The battery life is impressive – hundreds of photos on a single charge.
Size and Weight
The build is solid but lightweight, making it easy to carry around all day.
#3

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

Rating
9.9
Image Stabilization
Battery Life
Size and Weight

Most important from
3612 reviews

Image Stabilization
Images sometimes have blurred contortion lines even with the 'shake' mode selected, requiring multiple attempts to get a clear shot.
Battery Life
The camera uses regular AA rechargeable batteries, which is very convenient and avoids the need for specialized batteries.
Size and Weight
Compact and lightweight, it fits easily into your pocket, making it a great travel companion.

The KODAK PIXPRO Friendly Zoom FZ45-WH is a compact point-and-shoot camera that offers some notable features for casual photographers and vloggers. With a 16MP CMOS sensor, it captures decent quality images suitable for everyday photography. The 4x optical zoom and 27mm wide-angle lens provide flexibility for various shooting scenarios, although the zoom range might be limited for distant subjects.

The camera supports 1080p full HD video recording, making it a good choice for vlogging and casual video capture. However, it relies on digital image stabilization, which may not be as effective as optical stabilization for reducing camera shake, especially in low-light conditions or when using the zoom. The 2.7-inch LCD screen is adequate for framing shots but might be small for detailed reviews of your photos and videos.

Regarding storage, it supports SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards up to 512GB, offering ample space for your media files. The camera's size and weight make it portable and convenient to carry around, fitting well into the point-and-shoot category's requirement for ease of use and mobility. The KODAK PIXPRO Friendly Zoom FZ45-WH is a user-friendly option for those looking for a simple camera with essential features for everyday photography and vlogging, although it may have some limitations in image stabilization and zoom capabilities.

Rating
9.9
Image Stabilization
Battery Life
Size and Weight

Most important from
3612 reviews

Image Stabilization
Images sometimes have blurred contortion lines even with the 'shake' mode selected, requiring multiple attempts to get a clear shot.
Battery Life
The camera uses regular AA rechargeable batteries, which is very convenient and avoids the need for specialized batteries.
Size and Weight
Compact and lightweight, it fits easily into your pocket, making it a great travel companion.

Buying Guide for the Best Point and Shoot Cameras

When choosing a point-and-shoot camera, it's important to keep in mind why you're interested in this kind of camera—simplicity, portability, and decent photo quality without the fuss of interchangeable lenses or complex manual controls. Focus on what you'll use the camera for: casual family snapshots, travel documentation, social events, or maybe some creative photography in your spare time. The best fit is one that matches your usage style, fits comfortably in your hand or pocket, and has features you'll actually use, making your photography experience enjoyable and hassle-free.
Sensor SizeThe sensor is a key component that captures the image, and its size directly affects image quality, low light performance, and background blur (bokeh). In point-and-shoot cameras, sensors tend to be small to keep the camera compact. The major types you’ll see are 1/2.3-inch (most common), 1-inch (better quality), and occasionally larger ones. Smaller sensors usually mean the camera is smaller and lighter but might not perform as well in dim lighting or produce professional-style background blur. Larger sensors provide nicer quality and better low-light performance but often make the camera a bit bulkier. If you mostly shoot outdoors in good lighting, a smaller sensor will be fine, but if you want sharper photos in various lighting situations, opt for a camera with a 1-inch or larger sensor.
Zoom Range (Optical Zoom)Optical zoom tells you how much you can magnify your subject without losing image quality, as opposed to digital zoom, which simply crops and can make pictures blurry. Point-and-shoot cameras often advertise their zoom as a range like 5x, 10x, or even 30x. A high zoom (20x or more) is useful if you want to photograph distant subjects—like wildlife or sports—while a lower zoom (around 3x–5x) is usually enough for daily use, family gatherings, or close group photos. Choose a zoom range that fits your activities: more zoom for trips and adventure, less for straightforward snapshots.
Aperture (Lens Brightness)Aperture, labeled as f/number (like f/2.8 or f/4.0), shows how much light the camera’s lens lets in. A lower f-number means more light can enter, which helps in low light situations and allows more background blur for creative portraits. In point-and-shoots, you’ll often see variable apertures (e.g., f/3.3–f/6.9 depending on zoom level). If you want easy indoors or night shots without flash, look for a wider aperture (lower starting f-number), but if most of your shooting is outdoors in good light, aperture is less of a deciding factor.
Image StabilizationImage stabilization reduces blurriness caused by shaky hands, especially noticeable when zoomed in or in low light. Cameras use optical or digital stabilization, with optical usually giving better real results. If you plan to shoot in less than perfect light, zoom in a lot, or shoot while walking, this feature will help keep your photos sharp. For quick, casual snapshots in good lighting, you might not need it as much, but it's generally a helpful feature for everyone.
Autofocus SystemAutofocus is technology that helps your camera lock on to the subject quickly, ensuring your shots are sharp and clear. Some cameras are fast and accurate, especially with face or eye detection for people photos. Slower autofocus may struggle in low light or with moving subjects. If you’ll be shooting moving kids, pets, or action, a reliable and quick autofocus will make life easier. For mainly still or landscape shots, autofocus speed is less critical.
Video CapabilitiesMany point-and-shoot cameras can record video as well as still photos, often in HD (1080p) or even 4K. The quality and ease of use can vary—some let you zoom or change focus smoothly, while others are best for short clips. If you want to record family events, vacations, vlogs, or YouTube content, consider higher resolution and better video features. If your videos are only for simple sharing or memories, basic HD video will suffice.
Screen type and sizeThe screen on the back is how you frame shots, review photos, and change settings. Large, bright screens are easier to see, especially outdoors. Some cameras have touchscreens for easier navigation. Articulating or tilt screens let you shoot from tricky angles or take selfies. If you plan to use your camera for travel, creative angles, or self-portraits, a flexible, good-quality screen will make things easier. If you mainly point and shoot in a traditional way, basic screens are fine.
Wireless ConnectivityWi-Fi or Bluetooth allow you to transfer photos directly to your phone or computer without needing cables. This makes it easy to quickly share photos on social media or back them up. If you love sharing images right away or want to manage your files easily, wireless connectivity is a big plus. If you’re not interested in moving files quickly, this feature isn’t essential.
Size and WeightOne of the best parts of point-and-shoot cameras is their portability. They range from truly pocket-sized to slightly larger, with big zooms or screens making some models bulkier. Think about how you’ll carry your camera. If you want something to slip into a jeans pocket or tiny purse, go for the smallest size possible. If you’re okay with using a small bag, you can pick options with more features or longer zoom.

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