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10 Best Powershot Cameras 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Canon PowerShot SX740 HS Camera with 40x Optical Zoom and 20.3 Megapixel CMOS Sensor (International Model, Black)

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,171
Connectivity
Size and Weight

Most important from
107 reviews

Connectivity
Very easy to transfer photos to my phone.
Size and Weight
Very easy to use, small compact camera.

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS is a compact camera that's packed with a lot of features, making it a solid choice for both amateur and more experienced photographers. One of its standout features is the powerful 40x optical zoom, which allows you to capture distant subjects in great detail. This is complemented by the optical image stabilizer, which helps to reduce blurriness, especially in zoomed shots.

The camera also boasts a 20.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, ensuring high-resolution images, and the DIGIC 8 Image Processor, which enhances image quality and performance. Another major advantage is its 4K video capability, allowing you to capture high-resolution videos, perfect for those interested in both photography and videography. Connectivity is well-covered with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, making it easy to share your photos and videos wirelessly. The 3-inch tilt-type LCD is handy for taking selfies or shooting from difficult angles.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The camera is not water-resistant, so it may not be suitable for harsh weather conditions or underwater photography. Its maximum aperture of f/3.3-f/6.9 means it may struggle in low-light conditions without using the built-in flash. Additionally, while the battery life is decent, for extended shooting sessions, carrying a spare battery might be necessary. At 0.3 kilograms, it's lightweight and portable, making it a great travel companion. The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS offers excellent zoom capabilities, high-resolution imaging, and solid connectivity features, making it a versatile and user-friendly option for a wide range of photography needs, despite some limitations in low-light performance and weather resistance.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,171
Connectivity
Size and Weight

Most important from
107 reviews

Connectivity
Very easy to transfer photos to my phone.
Size and Weight
Very easy to use, small compact camera.
#2

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II, 1066C002 (International Version) Black

Rating
9.8
Size and Weight

Most important from
1043 reviews

Size and Weight
Sharp images, excellent camera when you’re on the go.

The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II is a compact camera that excels in both photography and videography, making it suitable for enthusiasts who desire high-quality images in a portable format. One of its standout features is the large 1.0-inch, 20.1 megapixel CMOS sensor, which captures impressive detail and dynamic range, allowing for beautiful shots in various lighting conditions. The camera's 4.2x optical zoom (24-100 mm) and wide aperture range (f/1.8 to f/2.8) enable users to take versatile photos, from wide landscapes to close-ups, while also providing good performance in low light. The tiltable 3-inch LCD screen is a fantastic addition for selfies and unique angles, adding convenience for creative shooting.

Video capabilities are noteworthy too, with 1080p resolution capturing smooth footage at 60 fps, making it a solid option for vloggers or anyone wanting to document their adventures. The built-in Wi-Fi allows for quick sharing of images online, adding to its appeal for social media users.

Rating
9.8
Size and Weight

Most important from
1043 reviews

Size and Weight
Sharp images, excellent camera when you’re on the go.
#3

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

Rating
9.7
Zoom Range
Image Stabilization
Video Capabilities

Most important from
1568 reviews

Zoom Range
The zoom capability has significantly improved, providing clear, detailed shots from a distance.
Image Stabilization
The camera's image stabilization feature ensures sharp and steady shots, even when using the zoom function.
Video Capabilities
Switching to the MP4 format for videos is a game-changer, making it much easier to transfer and play videos on various devices.
Connectivity
The camera's Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity make sharing photos and videos straightforward and hassle-free.
Battery Life
The battery life holds up well with around 300+ pictures per charge and up to 45-60 minutes of video recording, making it reliable for extended use.
Size and Weight
Despite the compact size, the camera performs exceptionally well in low light conditions, far surpassing many cellphone cameras.

The Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 is a versatile digital camera that caters well to everyday photography needs. It boasts a 20.2 Megapixel CMOS sensor and a DIGIC 4+ Image Processor, ensuring high-quality images even in low light conditions. The 12x optical zoom paired with optical image stabilization allows for clear and detailed shots from a distance, making it great for capturing a variety of scenes, from landscapes to close-ups. Additionally, the camera supports 1080p HD video recording, which is suitable for capturing moments in motion with decent clarity.

The built-in Wi-Fi and NFC capabilities are convenient features that simplify the process of sharing and transferring photos and videos to other devices or social media platforms. The large 3.0-inch LCD screen provides a good viewing experience, making it easier to frame and review shots. However, the camera's battery life might not be sufficient for long photography sessions, and it lacks advanced manual controls that more experienced photographers might seek.

The compact size and lightweight design make it a portable choice for users who prefer convenience and mobility. The Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 is a solid choice for casual photographers and those looking to capture high-quality images without the need for a more complex camera system.

Rating
9.7
Zoom Range
Image Stabilization
Video Capabilities

Most important from
1568 reviews

Zoom Range
The zoom capability has significantly improved, providing clear, detailed shots from a distance.
Image Stabilization
The camera's image stabilization feature ensures sharp and steady shots, even when using the zoom function.
Video Capabilities
Switching to the MP4 format for videos is a game-changer, making it much easier to transfer and play videos on various devices.
Connectivity
The camera's Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity make sharing photos and videos straightforward and hassle-free.
Battery Life
The battery life holds up well with around 300+ pictures per charge and up to 45-60 minutes of video recording, making it reliable for extended use.
Size and Weight
Despite the compact size, the camera performs exceptionally well in low light conditions, far surpassing many cellphone cameras.

Buying Guide for the Best Powershot Cameras

When choosing a PowerShot camera, it's important to consider what you'll be using it for. Whether you're a beginner looking to capture family moments, an enthusiast wanting to explore photography, or a professional needing a compact backup, understanding the key specifications will help you make the best choice. Here are the main specs to consider and how to navigate them to find the right camera for your needs.
Sensor SizeThe sensor size determines the quality of the images your camera can produce. Larger sensors capture more light and detail, which is crucial for high-quality photos, especially in low-light conditions. Common sensor sizes in PowerShot cameras include 1/2.3-inch, 1-inch, and APS-C. If you're a casual user, a 1/2.3-inch sensor might suffice. For better image quality and more control over depth of field, a 1-inch sensor is a good middle ground. Professionals or serious enthusiasts might prefer an APS-C sensor for the best image quality.
MegapixelsMegapixels refer to the resolution of the camera's sensor, indicating how many millions of pixels the camera can capture. Higher megapixels mean more detail, which is important if you plan to print large photos or crop images without losing quality. For everyday use, 12-16 megapixels are usually sufficient. If you need more detail for professional work or large prints, look for cameras with 20 megapixels or more.
Zoom RangeThe zoom range of a camera determines how close you can get to your subject without moving. Optical zoom is more important than digital zoom, as it maintains image quality. PowerShot cameras often have zoom ranges from 3x to 50x or more. For general photography, a 3x to 10x zoom is usually enough. If you enjoy wildlife or sports photography, a higher zoom range like 20x to 50x will be beneficial.
Image StabilizationImage stabilization helps reduce blur caused by camera shake, which is especially useful in low light or when using a long zoom. There are two types: optical and digital. Optical stabilization is generally better as it physically adjusts the lens to counteract movement. If you often shoot in challenging conditions or without a tripod, look for a camera with good optical image stabilization.
Video CapabilitiesIf you plan to shoot videos, consider the camera's video capabilities. Look at the resolution (Full HD, 4K) and frame rates (30fps, 60fps). Full HD (1080p) is sufficient for most users, but if you want higher quality or plan to do professional video work, 4K is the way to go. Also, check for additional features like slow-motion recording and external microphone support if audio quality is important to you.
ConnectivityModern cameras often come with various connectivity options like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC. These features allow you to easily transfer photos to your smartphone or computer, and even control the camera remotely. If you like to share your photos quickly on social media or need to transfer files without hassle, look for a camera with robust connectivity options.
Battery LifeBattery life is crucial, especially if you plan to use the camera for extended periods or while traveling. Battery life is usually measured in the number of shots per charge. For casual use, a camera with 200-300 shots per charge might be enough. If you plan to shoot extensively, look for models that offer 400 shots or more per charge, or consider carrying extra batteries.
Size and WeightThe size and weight of the camera can affect how often you use it. Compact and lightweight models are easier to carry around and are ideal for travel or everyday use. Larger and heavier models might offer more features and better ergonomics but can be cumbersome to carry. Consider how portable you need your camera to be and choose accordingly.

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