In the age of the smartphone, compact cameras have had to evolve in order to survive. No longer are they simple point-and-shoots or versatile travel-zooms, but rather they are often premium devices with large sensors and sharp lenses or even bigger zoom ranges, ultimately giving superior image quality or greater versatility than your average smartphone camera.
The world’s best compacts can cost as much as, if not more than, the latest flagship smartphones, but don't be put off by their high prices. In 2022, our Cameras editor bought a compact camera instead of the latest iPhone, because cameras handle better for photography and help focus your creativity in a way that a smartphone cannot with all of its additional distractions.
Compact cameras can fit in your pocket, are portable and discreet, and that’s what makes them particularly popular for street and documentary photography. Some models, such as the Fujifilm X100V – which holds the top position in our best compact camera guide – have been enjoying a resurgence in 2023, which goes to show that there’s life in the compact camera market yet.
Latest about Compact Cameras
Bad news, the Fujifilm X100VI may now be impossible to buy in the US – here's what to get instead
Rumors suggest that Fujifilm has asked retailers to suspend orders of three cameras, including the X100VI – and yes, tariffs could be to blame.
Fujifilm's quirky new compact just leaked – and it could be 2025's most fun camera
15-20 words explaining the main thrust of the story.
Fujifilm GFX100RF vs Leica Q3: I compared two of the best compact cameras money can buy, and I have a surprising favorite
I compared two of the best premium compacts money can buy – the Fujifilm GFX100RF and Leica Q3. Which one comes out on top?
Panasonic Lumix ZS99 / TZ99 Review: a 30x zoom pocket camera for your travels
The Panasonic Lumix ZS99 / TZ99 gives you a 30x optical zoom in a pocketable camera. But compared to its predecessor, very little has changed.
Where to buy the Fujifilm X100VI: current delivery estimates and the best retailers
Let's secure you a shiny new camera with our guide on where to buy the Fujifilm X100VI - including the latest shipping estimates.
This unique Fujifilm GFX100RF feature is changing the way I see photos, and I wish my camera had it
The GFX100RF's new aspect ratio dial has had a mixed reception, but it could just change the way you photograph the world around you.
The Fujifilm X100VI effect – how it's sparked a compact camera price boom and what I'd buy instead
Exclusive: here's how the Fujifilm X100VI has created a price boom for second-hand premium compact cameras, plus our guidance on what we'd buy instead.
Canon PowerShot V1 review: Sony-beating vlogging skills
Not yet ratedWith a new 22.3MP 1.4-inch sensor and 3.1x zoom lens, the PowerShot V1 is a powerful vlogging camera for beginners that slips into a pocket.
