Compact cameras experienced a slow but explosive resurgence in the photo industry. With about two years of this trend taking over the industry, we take a look back at some iconic models from multiple brands that continue to hold candle even today. If you are someone who is keen on purchasing your first compact camera, then these options can be of help.
Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II
The Canon PowerShot G7X Mk II features a 1-inch 20MP sensor and a 24–100mm (equivalent) f1.8–2.8 lens. The device offers 8 fps of burst mode, full HD video recording, and a 3-inch touchscreen that flips 180° upward. A successor to the G7X, the camera also features ISO settings ranging from 125 to 12,800, built-in Wi-Fi, and NFC. Since it is small, offers decent image and video quality, and doesn’t cost as much as its big brother, these are a few reasons why people are choosing this.
Sony RX100
The Sony RX100 is favoured amongst many compact camera users. The device features a 20MP 1-inch sensor, comes with a 28-100mm equivalent lens, and has a burst rate of 10fps. There is also a 3-inch TFT “white magic” LCD, and a bulb mode. The lens provides iPhone-like flare, offers nice High Contrast, and comes with a good battery, allowing you to shoot for 8-10 hours. The images remind you of the quality of a DSLR; they are sharp, and you can shoot up to ISO 6400 with ease. It is a device that will not disappoint.
Nikon COOLPIX S8200
Nikon’s COOLPIX series has been popular amongst many young photographers. The S8200 is no different. The 1/2.3-inch sensor features a 16MP resolution and 14x optical zoom, courtesy of a 25-350mm equivalent lens. There is macro mode, ISO up to 3200, auto grain mode, and a burst rate of 6fps. Some specific features include Target-Finding AF for subject tracking, a smile timer (which takes shots when people smile), and 360° / 180° panorama modes. If you want to ditch your phone, this compact is for you.
Samsung MV800
The Samsung MV800 features a 1-inch CCD sensor, offers 16MP resolution, and has a 26-130mm lens. The compact camera features a 180-degree flip screen, making it ideal for selfies, and includes dual image stabilisation, allowing you to record nostalgic 720p videos. For creative images, you get modes such as vignette, sketch, retro, classic, fish-eye, etc, and 3D Photo mode, Live Panorama. Plus, it comes in different colors.
Fujifilm FinePix F300
Another super-zoom offering, the Fujifilm FinePix F300 features a 1/2-inch CCD sensor paired with a 24-360mm lens. The device features gyro-based stabilization, an ISO range of up to 12,800, and hybrid autofocus for fast focusing. The camera features a 256-point TTL metering system, a continuous shooting speed of 1.5fps, and a built-in pop-up flash. When people purchase older compact cameras, they do so for the image quality, instead of speed. Of course, you also get film-like color modes such as Velvia, Provia, Astia, etc, which is a boon.
Olympus STYLUS XZ-2
The Olympus STYLUS XZ-2 is perfect for everyday shooting. It comes with a 12MP 1-inch CMOS sensor, 28-112mm lens, and ISO up to 12,800. There is 35-point contrast detect AF, face detection, a 3-inch tilting LCD, and a 12-bit RAW file option. You also get 11 art filters and 5 art effects to enhance your creative flair. Other features include a built-in ND filter, HDR backlit correction, and the option of mounting an EVF.
Leica D-LUX 3
The Leica D-Lux lineup has been inspired by the Lumix LX series. The D-LUX 3 features a 1/1.65-inch CCD sensor with 10MP resolution, has a 28-112mm zoom lens, and comes with a macro mod. The ISO is 3200, there are multiple exposure modes, and you also get a burst mode of 2fps for 3 frames. The camera offers color effects such as Cool, Warm, and Black and White. Owning a Leica is a feat in itself, and the D-LUX 3 is a good start for one.
These cameras are available on eBay. So, when you narrow down on which model is best for you, do read up about its condition and whether it has been tested or not. Happy shopping.