10 Best Compact Cameras 2025 in the United States

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS is a robust compact camera that's ideal for casual photographers and travelers looking for versatility in a small package. One of its standout features is the impressive 40x optical zoom, allowing users to capture detailed shots from a distance, along with optical image stabilization that helps reduce blurriness in photos. With a 20.3-megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC 8 image processor, it promises quality images and decent performance even in lower light conditions, thanks to an expanded ISO range up to 6400.

In terms of video capabilities, it supports 4K video recording and time-lapse movies, making it appealing for those interested in capturing high-resolution video. The built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity features also make it easy to share images directly to smartphones or social media, a great convenience for on-the-go photographers.

The 3-inch tilt-type LCD screen, which flips 180 degrees, is perfect for selfies and vlogging. Continuous shooting at speeds up to 10 fps is another plus for capturing fast-moving subjects. The compact design is lightweight and travel-friendly, prioritizing ease of use and compactness over pro-level capabilities.

This VJIANGER compact camera is designed with beginner photographers and vloggers in mind. It boasts an impressive 64MP resolution with 4K video capabilities, ensuring high-quality images and videos for users. The 3-inch flip screen is particularly useful for vloggers who need to monitor themselves while recording. Additionally, the 18X digital zoom allows for an extended reach, although, being a digital zoom, it may not maintain the same image quality as an optical zoom lens would.

The camera includes built-in image stabilization, which can be beneficial for reducing blur in photos and videos, although it's digital, so it might not be as effective as optical stabilization in challenging conditions. It offers WIFI connectivity, which is a great feature for easy sharing of photos and videos without the need for a computer.

On the downside, the camera has a fixed lens with no optical zoom, which limits versatility in framing shots. The battery life averages around 2 hours, which could be a constraint for longer outings or shoots. Furthermore, while the camera can double as a webcam, the absence of a remote control could be limiting for solo content creators who require hands-free operation.

The camera’s design is lightweight, making it highly portable for travel. However, it lacks water resistance, which means extra care is needed in adverse weather conditions. It's a solid choice for beginners who want an easy-to-use camera with more advanced features than a smartphone. With the included 32GB Micro SD card, it provides a good starting package for new photographers, although more serious users might find the lack of optical features a bit limiting.

The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II is a compact camera that packs a punch in a small frame. Its 1.0 inch, 20.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor ensures high-quality images and videos, making it suitable for avid photographers who need a portable option. The autofocus system, with tile autofocus and manual focus, adds to its versatility, while the wide aperture range (f/1.8-f/2.8) allows for excellent performance in low light and flexibility in various shooting conditions.

The 4.2x optical zoom might seem modest, but it covers a practical range for everyday photography, from wide-angle to moderate telephoto shots (24-100mm equivalent). Digital image stabilization helps reduce blur, especially useful for video recording. Video capabilities are advanced, capturing high-quality moments with clarity. The 3.0-inch LCD touchscreen that tilts is user-friendly, perfect for selfies and shooting at challenging angles. Built-in WiFi adds convenience for sharing your photos on the go.

However, the camera's battery life might be a concern for extended shooting sessions, as charging times can vary. The build quality and design are robust and stylish, but the camera might feel a bit hefty for some users seeking ultra-lightweight options. This camera is ideal for those who value image quality and versatility in a compact form, such as travel enthusiasts and social media creators. But if you need a longer zoom range or superior battery life, you might want to explore other options.