Whether you're looking for the best point and shoot camera that won't break the bank, a handy compact camera that's a step up from your smartphone, or just an all-rounder budget camera to complement your more advanced digital photography kit, check out our annual round-up of the best 5 cameras under $600 this year:
1. Canon Powershot V10
Key Features
- 15MP CMOS Sensor
- 4K Video
- 19mm Equivalent f2.8 Lens
- Built-In Lithium Rechargeable Battery
- Bluetooth & WiFi Connectivity
A compact camera that's perfect for vlogging, the Powershot V10 captures brilliant stills and 4K video. Weighing only 211 grams, the Powershot V10 fits in the palm of your hand but brings the power of a complete content creation kit. With its 19mm equivalent lens, this camera is ideal for vlogging and making sure you can fit yourself into POV shots, while its f2.8 maximum aperture will add a pleasing background blur to all of your shots.
Complete with two built-in microphones, Canon's new smooth skin video mode, a tilting 2-inch LCD screen, a huge 1-inch sensor, and Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity, this little camera is absolutely perfect for vlogging, livestreaming, or using as a webcam.
Learn more about the Powershot V10
2. Fuji Instax Mini EVO Instant Camera
Key Features
- Retro Design
- Inspiring Instant Camera
- Compatible With Fujifilm Mini Instant Film
- Selfie Mirror
- Various Filters and Lens Effects to choose from
Instant photography is back in style, and the Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo is leading the charge. This retro-inspired instant camera boasts a sleek design that's as stylish as it is functional. With a range of filters and lens effects, you can customise your photos to your heart's content. Thanks to the Mini Evo including Bluetooth connectivity, you can use your smartphone as a remote control, making it easier than ever to capture eye-catching selfies with the built-in selfie mirror.
While the Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo functions as a wonderful instant camera, the Bluetooth connection also allows you to print your favourite images from your smartphone camera roll to Instax mini instant film - it also performs the role of a mini printer!
Learn more about the Instax Mini EVO
3. Pentax WG-90
Key Features
- Rugged Build: 14M Waterproof, 1.6M Shockproof, 100KG Crushproof, -10º Freezeproof & Dustproof
- 5x optical zoom lens
- Full HD video recording
- 16MP Resolution
- Built-in LED Lights
The Pentax WG-90 is the one to watch on our list if you are hunting for a rugged camera to take with you into the great outdoors. Perfect for adventurers who need durability without compromising image quality, the WG-90 is designed to withstand the toughest conditions: this waterproof camera can go capture great images 14 meters under water, is shockproof up to 1.8 meters, freezeproof to -10°C, and even crushproof. With its weather-sealed construction, this camera is ready to capture your travel content, from snorkelling to snowboarding.
The WG-90 features a 16MP sensor that produces high-quality stills and captures Full HD video, providing clear, detailed images even in low-light. The 5x optical zoom lens offers a versatile focal range for various shooting situations, while the built-in LED ring lights surrounding the lens make it easy to illuminate close-ups, whether you're photographing intricate details on land or underwater. For content creators, the WG-90 includes a Movie SR+ mode for steady video capture, minimising shake without needing a gimbal.
With additional features like a digital microscope mode for ultra-close shots and the ability to function as a webcam via USB, the Pentax WG-90 is a reliable choice for adventure lovers and outdoor photographers. At an affordable price, it's a great investment for those who need a multipurpose tough camera that can keep up.
Learn more about the WG-90
4. Kodak AZ528
Key Features
- 52x optical zoom lens
- 16MP Image sensor
- Full HD Video
- Optical Image Stabilisation
- 3-inch LCD
The Kodak AZ528 is a high-achiever for sports and wildlife photography, with a feature set that is sure to deliver both in terms of usability and imaging quality. It features a huge 52x optical zoom range which starts at a wide 24mm equivalent, and full HD video recording capabilities. The optical image stabilisation means your photos and videos will be free of camera shake, so it is good in low light conditions, while the action-friendly 6 frames-per-second continuous shooting makes the Kodak AZ528 the ideal camera for sports photography.
The 3-inch LCD screen is perfect for framing and reviewing your photos, while WiFi connectivity allows you to control this compact digital camera via your smartphone and share your content with your phone in an instant.
Learn more about the Kodak AZ528
5. Kodak M38 35mm Film Camera
Key Features
- Built-in flash
- Focus free
- Runs on a single AAA battery (not included)
- Compatible with 35mm (135) film
It's time to fall in love with analogue photography all over again with the Kodak M38 35mm camera. A fun and simple 35mm film camera, it's ideal for first-timers and film-lovers alike. And thanks to a straightforward and accessible feature set, alongside its affordable price point, it's a fantastic camera for kids, though don't let that stop you, adults, from having fun.
A point and shoot camera, the Kodak M38 can shoot black and white and colour film of various speeds, and it's focus free so you don't have to worry about focusing the lens to capture sharp and in-focus pictures. You can load up and fire with confidence that you've captured a timeless image.
Boasting a fixed focal length of 31mm means you can fit plenty into the one frame without being too far away from your subject. Coupled with a built-in flash for use in low-light conditions or indoor situations, this camera punches far above its weight, all while maintaining its classy retro style. It's a must-have.
Learn more about the Kodak M38