The 5 Best Compact Cameras in 2023

If you’re looking for a compact camera for a budding content creator, look no further than the Sony ZV-1. This sleek and stylish compact camera will appeal to anyone looking to improve their content creation on the go. This Sony camera features a 20.1MP 1-inch CMOS sensor and it can record beautiful 4K resolution videos, all housed in a body that fits comfortably in your handbag or backpack.

To make best use of the camera's video capabilities, whether you’re vlogging or just capturing your adventures, the Sony ZV-1 features a 3-inch side-tilting LCD screen for accurately framing all of your shots, including selfies.

In addition to its built-in high-quality directional microphone, the ZV-1 features a microphone input and accessory shoe for attaching external microphones and really boosting the audio quality of your content. Pairing this camera with the separately available VPT2BT grip allows for the best vlogging: you can use the grip to capture steady handheld footage, use it as a versatile mini tripod, and operate the camera’s key functions via Bluetooth. What’s not to love?

For anyone looking to use their compact camera for super-telephoto purposes such as wildlife photography or sports photography, you can’t go past the Canon Powershot SX70HS with its huge 65x optical zoom lens. The SX70HS features a 20.3MP sensor, can record 4K videos, and thanks to built-in optical image stabilisation, users can enjoy the full potential of this lens without camera shake spoiling their fun.

Sports-lovers looking to put the long telephoto lens of this Canon compact camera to work will be pleased with the 10 frames per second continuous shooting, advanced AF system, and top shutter speed of 1/2000th of a second, which can be used to aptly freeze the action as it unfolds.

Thanks to a bright and detailed EVF sitting alongside the tilting LCD screen, users can frame their images with calm and care, whether they are behind or in front of the lens. As an added bonus, the Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity of this camera allow the quick sharing of results after they have been captured, as well as advanced remote control.

With its RX100 range of cameras, Sony has redefined what was possible from pocket-sized compact cameras - and with this Mark 7 version, they take things another step further. The RX100 Mark VII has the same processing engine as Sony’s premium A9 mirrorless camera, which leads to lightning-fast user speeds and exceptional pictures captured by the 20.1MP 1-inch CMOS sensor.

Meet the Nikon Coolpix P1000 – your new best friend in the world of compact zoom cameras. Imagine having a magical lens with a whopping 125x zoom, letting you capture wide landscapes during the day and zoom in on the moon at night. This camera can shoot fantastic 4K videos and 16MP photos, turning any moment into a masterpiece.

The Canon Powershot G7X Mark III is a more-traditionally sized compact camera than some previous advanced digital compacts, safely slipping into a pocket so you can travel about worry-free and light on your feet.

The G7X Mark III is sleek and stylish in appearance - but it’s the large 20MP 1-inch CMOS sensor inside that really impresses. Continuous shooting can be done with ease, at a maximum of 30 frames per second (with fixed AF), which is excellent for its class, while RAW image capture allows you to seek every possible detail out of your images. Vlogging is also well supported, with this petite high-performer offering 4K video, an external mic-input and more advanced features, such as clean HDMI output.

The lens at the front of the G7X Mark III features a usable zoom range and bright f1.8-2.8 aperture, while smartphone users will appreciate the touchscreen-heavy menu operation and built-in WiFI and Bluetooth connectivity.

The lens at the front of the G7X Mark III features a usable zoom range and bright f1.8-2.8 aperture, while smartphone users will appreciate the touchscreen-heavy menu operation and built-in WiFI and Bluetooth connectivity.

One of the best tough cameras out there, the Ricoh WG-6 is the perfect waterproof compact camera to take with you on trips. Dustproof, shockproof, waterproof and freezeproof, you can rest assured that it will follow you in your most thrilling adventures.

You don’t have to sacrifice image quality with this super-resistant compact camera. With a 20MP resolution image sensor, versatile 5x optical zoom range and 4K resolution video recording, it produces sharp and detailed images with minimal image noise to capture incredible travel photos.

Better yet, with a lens that starts at a wide 28mm equivalent, and goes to a telephoto 140mm equivalent, you can capture everything from landscapes to subjects that are far away. Its lens even has a LED ring light around it to illuminate close-up subjects with a nice even spread of lighting for amazing macro shots. This is the compact camera you want for any trips that will involve a wide range of activities, from hikes to snorkelling and even skiiing.

The right camera can turn your casual photography hobby into a lifelong passion. Particularly when you’re just starting your photography journey, it’s important to choose a camera that suits your ability level, photography style, and budget. While there’s no one ‘right camera’ for everyone, our range of compact digital cameras is a great place to start. 

If you’re an advanced beginner looking to upgrade your gear, check out our guide to the best digital cameras for photography or get expert advice by heading into your local Ted’s store today!