Top 5 BEST Compact Cameras 2025

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Find your dream smartphone-beating pocket compact

We frequently hear the remark or phrase, “Don’t most people just use their phones?” when discussing the top small cameras. There is a compelling argument for a dedicated camera, particularly those in this guide, even though the greatest camera phones can still deliver great images. In a manner that is far more difficult with a phone, being creative with a dedicated camera may also be very beneficial to your mental health.

The compact cameras listed below aren’t your typical point-and-shoots; trust us, we’ve examined hundreds and hundreds of camera phones, accessories, and compact cameras since TechRadar’s 2008 start. Each of them has smartphone-beating capabilities that are specific to each kind of photographer, such as improved handling, a sharper lens, a large full-frame sensor, an enormous optical zoom range, or functions that are useful for vlogging.

If you are able to get one, we would recommend the Fujifilm X100VI over all other compact cameras that we have examined. Thanks to its alluring formula—a distinctive hybrid viewfinder, superb image clarity, efficient stabilization, and a nostalgic aesthetic—it has seen viral success. If it’s not the best choice for you, our advice will assist you in locating a different little camera that fits your needs and price range. The results of our extensive reviews by real-world experts have been condensed, and the resulting list has been categorized by use-case.

Table of Contents

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1. Fujifilm X100VI

The Fujifilm X100V gained popularity due to its vintage style, compact size, hybrid viewfinder, and fixed 23mm f/2 lens. By increasing resolution to 40MP and introducing in-body image stabilization for the first time, the X100VI improves upon the same idea. It also uses the Fujifilm X-T5’s class-leading autofocus. Our testing revealed that the results were spot-on throughout the sensor, with more cropping freedom because to the higher pixel count. We believe it’s an even more well-rounded compact for street photography when combined with outstanding subject tracking autofocus and efficient stabilization.

Our tests also showed that the X100VI’s support for 6.2K 10-bit video made it a more powerful tool for filmmakers. Both the single UHS-I SD card slot and the fixed focal length will continue to be a drawback for some. For complete weatherproofing, an adaptor is also required. It’s also not surprising that Fujifilm raised the price of its successor given the X100V’s sold-out demand. However, after using the X100VI for a while, we believe it to be the best premium compact for daily use and the apex of the X100 series.

With a 40MP sensor and picture stabilization, the X100VI is a shrewd street shooter that elevates Fujifilm’s well-known X100 series on TikTok to new levels.

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2. Sony RX100 Mark VII

The RX100 VII is still the greatest compact available today in many aspects. We discovered that its autofocus mechanism is far superior to that of any other pocket camera, tracking moving objects with remarkable accuracy and utilizing its Face and Eye AF ingeniously, even while in video mode. Both the video and the images are of excellent quality. However, there is a significant cost associated with all of this, which may be a deal-breaker for many.

Nevertheless, since it’s among the greatest possibilities available, we can’t help but include it in this guide. There isn’t a more potent compact than the Mark VII if money permits. However, the RX100 VI delivers most of its performance at a somewhat lower price, so if you’re willing to forgo some of the newest focusing features and a microphone connection, give it a look.

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3. Sony ZV-1

The Sony ZV-1 is among the greatest choices available if you’re primarily interested in video rather than stills from a small camera. The ZV-1’s primary strength is its video capabilities, but it is also quite good at taking still images because it has the same sensor and CPU as Sony’s most recent RX100 series cameras. It can tenaciously latch onto people and moving objects in your frame because to its class-leading autofocus capabilities. We tested it and discovered that it performed exceptionally well at tracking our gaze across the majority of the frame and maintaining focus on moving subjects. Naturally, its 20.1MP 1-inch sensor produces incredibly good video quality as well.

These are supported by a hotshoe to assist in mounting the external microphone and a 3.5mm mic port to improve audio quality. Although its brilliant 24-70mm f/1.8-2.8 lens doesn’t have as much reach as the RX100 VII, it does guarantee beautiful background blur in still images and videos, which is ideal if you mostly take vlogs or portraits. Although Sony has since produced the ZV-1 II, we found the sequel to be a confusing update that, in practical application, provided little more than the ZV-1 to warrant its higher price.

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4. Ricoh GR IIIx

Without a doubt, if you’re a street photographer, you’ve heard of the Ricoh GR, a fantastic line of small cameras known for its big APS-C sensor and sharp, fixed focal length lens. The most recent variant, the Ricoh GRIIIx, has a 40mm f2.8 lens instead of the normal GR III’s wider 28mm f2.8 lens, which could make it a more flexible choice based on your preferences. In our opinion, the GR III’s 28mm is best suited for landscape photography, while the X’s 40mm is better for portraiture.

According to our assessment, the GRIII X is an excellent camera for carrying about every day. Its new features, such as the Snap Focus system, make it easy to use and capture important moments. With its many amazing customization possibilities, in-camera raw editing, and wireless smartphone connectivity, it’s a great pick for seasoned tinkerers. Although we would have preferred a tilt screen and longer battery life, such omissions are reasonable considering the small size of the device. If you want great image quality, fast performance, and easy handling in a portable package, we believe this is the greatest GR version to date.

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5. Panasonic Lumix LX100 II

Fixed-focal-length lenses are usually the only option available to compact cameras with sensors larger than one inch, which is excellent for quality but less so for flexibility. The Panasonic LX100 II, on the other hand, demonstrates that quality and versatility can occasionally be achieved simultaneously by combining a 17MP Four Thirds sensor, which is the same size as those found inside Panasonic’s G-series mirrorless cameras, with a zoom lens that is equivalent to 24-75mm in 35mm terms.

We thought its exposure metering system was more than dependable, and its Leica-branded lens was extremely excellent, capturing very good levels of detail that are worthy of more expensive APS-C cameras. Our testing also reveal that it creates images with true colors and manages noise fairly well. With features including a quick autofocus mechanism, a sturdy body, crisp 4K footage, and a practical electronic viewfinder, the most recent LX100 builds on the groundbreaking work of the original LX100.

The LX100 II is no longer available, thus your only alternatives for purchasing it are to buy it used or hope to discover one at an independent store. Check out the more expensive Leica D-Lux 8 if you want a camera that has the same technology but is available brand-new.

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There are a number of things to take into account when choosing a small camera. All compact cameras promise portability, as the name implies, but form factor isn’t the only consideration. Every camera on the aforementioned list combines features, handling, versatility, and image quality in some way. What and how you choose to shoot will determine which particular elements are most important. You could be better off using the camera on your smartphone if you can’t locate a small that meets all of your needs.

Sensor size is one of the most important factors to consider. Every one of the top-rated little cameras ought to be an improvement over your smartphone. These days, APS-C and Micro Four Thirds cameras, like the Fujifilm X100V, are just as common as 1-inch ones.

Examine your tiny camera’s lens and zoom capabilities more closely if you intend to use it for travel. The latter must have at least 10x optical zoom, if not more, to be worth your consideration. A fixed lens might be more suitable for you if you intend to use your camera for candid portraits or street photography. Or, if you prefer taking pictures at night, go for a compact with high ISO capability and outstanding noise handling.

Take note of how a camera handles any subject you choose. We talk about this in our reviews. A tiny percentage of compacts have an optical viewfinder, but the majority have an electronic one. While not all displays can tilt, the majority also have touchscreen interfaces, which make switching from a smartphone easier. Consider whether manual controls are important to you as well.

Some capabilities, like image stabilization or face/eye tracking, may be helpful extras, but others you may not require. Of course, cost also matters, so if the aforementioned models are too expensive to buy new, see if they are available used. Although our article on how to purchase a used DSLR or mirrorless camera is geared at larger models, many of the same tips also apply to high-end tiny cameras.

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