10 Best Powershot Cameras 2026 in the United States

The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III is a solid choice for anyone wanting a compact camera with strong photo and video capabilities, especially vloggers and casual content creators. It features a 1-inch, 20.1-megapixel stacked CMOS sensor paired with Canon’s DIGIC 8 processor, delivering sharp images with good detail in various lighting conditions. The 4.2x optical zoom (24-100mm) offers decent flexibility for everyday shooting, and the optical image stabilization helps keep shots steady, which is very useful for handheld photos and videos.

Video performance stands out here, offering 4K recording at 30 frames per second and slow-motion Full HD at up to 120fps, making it versatile for creative recording. The inclusion of a tilting LCD screen is great for selfies or vlogging, and connectivity options like Bluetooth and the ability to use it as a high-quality webcam add modern convenience.

On the downside, while battery life is decent for casual use, it may require carrying extra batteries for extended shooting sessions. The zoom range, though versatile, may feel a bit limited if you need long-distance reach. Also, the camera is compact and lightweight (about 1 pound), which is great for portability but could feel a bit small for users who prefer a more substantial grip. This package includes handy accessories like a tripod, memory card, and a detachable Bluetooth remote, which enhance usability right out of the box. If you want a user-friendly, high-quality compact camera that balances good photo quality with strong video features and easy sharing, the G7 X Mark III is definitely worth considering.

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS is a compact and lightweight point-and-shoot camera designed especially for travelers and casual photographers who want versatility without carrying heavy gear. It features a 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor with 20.3 megapixels, which is typical for cameras in this category and good enough to capture detailed, vibrant images for everyday use and trips. The standout feature here is the powerful 40x optical zoom (equivalent to 24–960mm), allowing you to shoot everything from wide landscapes to distant subjects with clarity, supported by optical image stabilization to reduce blur from hand shake.

Video enthusiasts will appreciate the ability to record in 4K UHD, a notable step up from many compact cameras, along with 4K time-lapse modes for creative options. Connectivity is built-in with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, making it easy to share photos or control the camera remotely through your smartphone. The camera runs on a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, offering moderate battery life suitable for day outings but might require carrying a spare for extended use. Its size and weight are travel-friendly at about 1 pound and a small 6 x 6 x 3 inch footprint, fitting comfortably in a pocket or bag.

However, it lacks weather sealing and a built-in flash, which may limit shooting in challenging lighting or weather conditions. The touchscreen LCD has modest resolution, which is sufficient but not very sharp compared to higher-end models. This camera is a great choice if you want an easy-to-use, versatile zoom camera with solid photo and 4K video quality, especially for travel and everyday moments, though it’s not built for professional use or harsh environments.

The Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 is a compact and lightweight camera, making it very portable and easy to carry. It features a 20.2-megapixel 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor that delivers good image quality, especially in well-lit conditions. The 12x optical zoom with optical image stabilization allows you to capture subjects at a distance while minimizing blur from hand shake, which is helpful for casual photography. Video recording is supported at full HD 1080p, suitable for everyday videos but without advanced video options. The camera includes built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, which makes sharing photos and videos to your smartphone or other devices straightforward and convenient. Its 3.0-inch LCD screen is large enough for comfortable framing and reviewing shots.

Battery life is decent for casual use with a 600 mAh lithium-ion battery, though it may require recharging during extended shooting sessions. One downside is the relatively small sensor size, which limits low-light performance compared to larger sensor cameras. Also, zooming is disabled while recording video, which restricts flexibility during filming. The camera offers a number of creative modes like Hybrid Auto and Creative Shot to help beginners add artistic effects without much effort.

While it lacks features like a viewfinder and advanced manual controls, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 is a solid choice for those who want a simple, easy-to-use point-and-shoot with good zoom and image stabilization for everyday photography.