There are many good bridge cameras and selecting one that’s right for you can be overwhelming! In this article I’ll focus on the things you should look at when comparing bridge cameras and give you my opinion on the best bridge camera I’ve ever used.
If you are a newbie or semi-pro sports shooter then all you want is a cheap bridge camera, with great sensor and all the basic features that you need.
Bridge cameras are a great and affordable way to get started in photography. They offer more versatility than smartphones, but are cheaper than the average DSLR. This makes bridge cameras a perfect choice for those who want to do more photography but don’t want to spend thousands of dollars on a camera setup.
Before I get started, let me just say that if you’re looking for an introduction to bridge cameras, the post you’re looking at is not going to be 100% applicable to your search.
My name is Neil and I have been an active amateur photographer for the past 10 years. When I first took up photography, I had no idea about what cameras or lenses to buy. Even during my years of experience, I find it hard to choose the best bridge camera for my needs from the variety of options at my disposal.
Have you been searching for the best bridge camera under $300? Then you are at the right place. See our list of top 10 cameras here, starting from just $150 to $400……
Many people want a simple camera they can use immediately without any hassle, such as a lightweight, compact point and shoot snapper.
While some models are on the expensive side, this guide specifically shares the best point and shoot cameras under $300 – so you can get started taking beautiful photos on a budget.
Best Compact Cameras under $300:
Canon PowerShot ELPH 190
Kodak PIXPRO FZ43
Panasonic Lumix FZ80
Sony DSC-W800
Sony DSC-W830
Kodak PIXPRO AZ421
Minolta MN35Z
Fujifilm FinePix XP140
Ricoh WG-60
Kodak PIXPRO AZ252
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- Canon PowerShot ELPH 190
Our Pick
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Canon PowerShot ELPH 190
Great for beginners
The Canon PowerShot ELPH 190 allows you to create high-resolution photos with minimal photography knowledge.
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Pros
20 MP sensor
Automatic intelligent shooting mode
Image stabilization
Cons
Some may find the controls limiting
One of the best point and shoot cameras under $300 is the Canon PowerShot ELPH 190. Although this is an older camera, it is still a great option due to its simple design, high-quality sensor, and ease of use.
It has one of the best sensors offered by point and shoot cameras, a 20 MP CCD model that delivers excellent image quality with great detail.
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The lens of the ELPH 190 features a 10x optical zoom for an effective focal length of 24-240mm. This means that you can take any kind of photo, from wide-angle images to telephoto detail shots. This camera can also record 720p footage.
If you are new to photography, the Canon PowerShot ELPH 190 even has an intelligent auto mode. This evaluates the current scene and instantly chooses the best camera settings. As a result, you can take quality photos without needing an in-depth understanding of things like aperture and exposure.
- Kodak PIXPRO FZ43
Budget Pick
Image from Amazon
Kodak PIXPRO FZ43
Great for travel use
The Kodak PIXPRO FZ43 is a brilliant little camera that allows you to easily create high-resolution images and record HD video.
$96.31 from Amazon
Pros
16 MP image sensor for high-resolution photos
A good focal length range of 27-108mm
Simple controls and LCD screen
Cons
Requires AA batteries
The Kodak PIXPRO FZ43 is one of the cheapest options on this list. If you want to spend very little but still want to be able to create high-quality photos, it’s a great choice.
Image from Amazon
The PIXPRO FZ43 has a decent 16 MP sensor that is better than some DSLRs! It’s aided by the high-quality 27-108mm equivalent lens that has a maximum aperture range of f/3.0-6.6. The impressive focal length range means you can shoot various types of photos, including wide-angle landscapes and some telephoto compositions.
The Kodak PIXPRO FZ43 can also record 720p video. This makes it great for vlogging and travel videos. It fits in the palm of your hand and has a simple rear control panel with a high-quality LCD screen (though it lacks touch functionality).
The FZ43 takes two AA batteries, which may or may not be a problem. The battery life is okay, but it is advisable to take spare batteries with you (just in case!).
- Panasonic Lumix FZ80
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Panasonic Lumix FZ80
Great for taking the next step
The Panasonic Lumix FZ80 is a great transitional camera that allows beginners to start leaning more advanced photography techniques and controls.
$397.99 from Amazon
Pros
Can record 4K/30p video
High-quality 20-1200mm lens
Includes image stabilization
Cons
Much larger and bulkier than most point and shoot cameras
If you want something more akin to a DSLR camera, the Panasonic Lumix FZ80 is one of the best point and shoot models under $300. This Lumix camera looks and handles like a DSLR but has a fixed lens and much simpler controls.
It is essentially a bridge camera that could be great for those wanting to develop their photography skills but who aren’t quite ready to take the plunge and buy a DSLR or MILC.
Image from Amazon
The Lumix FZ80 has an 18.1 MP sensor. This is complemented by the incredible focal length of the lens, which has an effective focal length range of 20-1200mm. Combine this with image stabilization and you have a camera that can even be used for low-light bird and wildlife photography.
This point and shoot camera also records 4K/30p video, which is far better than most compact cameras. The FZ80 also has an LCD touchscreen and an electronic viewfinder. And for those hoping to gain more control over their photos, it has a program dial with a fully manual shooting mode.
- Sony DSC-W800
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Sony DSC-W800
Great for easy photography
The Sony DSC-W800 has numerous features that make it the ideal point and shoot camera for beginners, including IS and simplified menus.
$196.99 from Amazon
Pros
High-resolution 20.1 MP sensor
Easy mode for first-time users
5x optical zoom and 10x digital zoom
Cons
It may not have the fastest or most accurate focusing
The Sony DSC-W800 is a fantastic compact camera that is easy to use and easy to carry. It weighs just 0.28 lb/127 g and will fit in the palm of your hand.
It has a relatively impressive 20.1 MP sensor that allows you to take high-quality images with excellent contrast and clarity. It also features a Carl Zeiss lens with a 5x optical zoom and a 10x digital zoom.
Image from Amazon
To make taking photos handheld easier, the Sony DSC-W800 also has a SteadyShot feature. This is a form of image stabilization and helps reduce camera shake to ensure that you get sharp photos and video.
The menu system and settings are also incredibly easy to use, which is great for beginners. The camera has an “easy” mode that simplifies the menus further and allows you to make quick changes to the settings. We also like that the W800 can be charged via USB and does not require disposable batteries.
- Sony DSC-W830
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Sony DSC-W830
Great for auto controls
The Sony DSC-W830 features an impressive optical zoom and an intelligent mode that automatically selects the best image settings.
$179.95 from Amazon
Pros
8x optical zoom
Top-quality lens
Has face detection technology to create high-quality portraits
Cons
Some may feel the price isn’t warranted
The Sony DSC-W830 offers a slight improvement over the W800. This compact camera looks great and it is available in either a black or silver casing.
Image from Amazon
The lens features an improved 8x optical zoom; this gives you a slightly better reach compared to the W800. It does have the same 20.1 MP sensor, however.
This camera also features several different shooting modes and an intelligent auto mode. The intelligent auto mode analyzes the current scene and picks the best camera settings for you. And there are creative shooting modes for different types of photography such as portraits and landscapes.
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The camera has a rear LCD screen and simple controls. Like the W800, it is also incredibly lightweight and compact. If you want a little more control and a better zoom, the Sony DSC-W830 is an excellent choice.
- Kodak PIXPRO AZ421
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Kodak PIXPRO AZ421
Great for portraits and animals
The Kodak PIXPRO AZ421 has super-telephoto capabilities and various detection modes that let you take sharp photos of people and animals.
$193.60 from Amazon
Pros
Great focal length range of 24-1008mm
Face, cat, and dog detection for improved portrait photos
Also has image stabilization to improve focusing
Cons
Only has a 16 MP sensor
Kodak has a great range of budget point and shoot cameras, and one of the best options under $300 is the Kodak PIXPRO AZ421. This compact camera has a traditional DSLR shape and features a large grip so that you can hold it comfortably.
Image from Amazon
One of its most impressive features is the lens, which boasts an amazing 42x optical zoom and is great for photographing distant subjects. The 42x zoom equates to a focal length range of 24-1008mm. This means that you have wide-angle capabilities at 24mm and super-telephoto capabilities at 1008mm.
The AZ421 has a 16.1 MP sensor and can record HD video. It also has some interesting focusing features including face, cat, and dog detection as well as blink and smile detection. These help when taking photos of people and animals.
We also like the range of automatic features and shooting modes. For example, the AZ421 has a mode designed to create seamless panoramas. There is also a mode that reduces facial imperfections in portraits.
- Minolta MN35Z
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Minolta MN35Z
Great for slow-motion video
The Minolta MN35Z has a high-quality 20 MP sensor and can also record 1080p video at 60 FPS.
$209.63 from Amazon
Pros
Has built-in optical image stabilization
Stylish design with three different color choices
35x optical zoom
Cons
Does not have a touchscreen
The Minolta MN35Z is one of the best budget point and shoot cameras thanks to its excellent sensor and video-recording capabilities.
Image from Amazon
This camera has a retro design and looks like older DSLR. There’s a large grip, a protruding lens barrel, and a pop-up flash. The MN35Z also has a 3-inch LCD screen and a simple set of controls. You can use a range of automatic modes, and the top dial allows you to shoot in Manual mode, Aperture Priority mode, and Shutter Priority mode.
The MN35Z has a 20 MP image sensor. It also has built-in optical image stabilization, which helps keep images sharp when using slow shutter speeds. We like that it can record 1080p video at 60 FPS; this gives you greater flexibility when recording and means you can record slow-motion footage, too.
The camera also has a built-in Wi-Fi connection, and you can download photos directly to your smartphone using the free Minolta ProShot app. The Minolta MN35Z is even available in three colors: black, purple, and red.
- Fujifilm FinePix XP140
Image from Amazon
Fujifilm FinePix XP140
Great for photography adventures
The Fujifilm FinePix XP140 is durable, waterproof, and great for active use (including video recording).
$398.00 from Amazon
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Pros
Waterproof, shockproof, and dustproof
Can record 4K/15p vieo
Has Bluetooth connectivity
Cons
Doesn’t have the best image resolution
The Fujifilm FinePix XP140 could be on the list of the best point and shoot cameras under $500, but it is just barely above $300 and therefore makes this list. It’s an excellent waterproof camera that has a robust design and is meant for active use.
Image from Amazon
The stylish body is waterproof (to 82 ft/25 m), shockproof, freezeproof, and dustproof. This means you can easily use it in adverse weather conditions and when going on outdoor adventures.
It also has some great photography and video features. For example, it can record 4K footage at 15 FPS and 1080p footage at 30 FPS. It also has an ISO range of 100-12,800, which means it performs well in low-light situations.
The resolution may not be the best, but you can still take quality photos with ease and record footage of your adventures.
- Ricoh WG-60
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Ricoh WG-60
Great for cold climates
The Ricoh WG-60 has a durable body that is shockproof and freeze proof. It also has a special underwater mode to help improve underwater image quality.
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At the time of publishing, this camera was available under $300.
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Pros
Robust design
Has a 16 MP sensor with a high dynamic range
Includes 25 shooting modes for simple use
Cons
May not have the best focusing system
Like the FinePix, the Ricoh WG-60 is meant for active use. It is an incredibly robust camera and is waterproof up to 14 m/45 ft. The casing is also extremely durable and can withstand some bumps and knocks.
Image from Amazon
The Ricoh WG-60 has a 16 MP sensor with a high dynamic range. This means you can take high-resolution photos with excellent detail even in difficult lighting situations.
The Ricoh WG-60 also boasts an underwater mode. This uses an optimized white balance so that the colors look more natural and vibrant. It also has 25 different shooting modes to make photography easy for beginners.
The WG-60 is crushproof up to 220.5 lb/100 kg and freezeproof to temperatures of -10 degrees Celsius. Therefore, it’s a great point and shoot camera if you regularly travel to cold climate regions or you enjoy extreme sports.
- Kodak PIXPRO AZ252
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Kodak PIXPRO AZ252
Great for automatic use
The Kodak PIXPRO AZ252 is a versatile point and shoot camera that has a decent 16 MP sensor and a 25x zoom lens.
$189.88 from Amazon
Pros
25x optical zoom (24-600mm)
Built-in image stabilization
Can record 720p video at 24 FPS
Cons
Only takes cards up to 32 GB
Uses AA batteries
If you don’t need such a long lens, the Kodak PIXPRO AZ252 is a great alternative to the AZ421. While the AZ421 has a 42x optical zoom, the Kodak PIXPRO AZ252 has a reduced 25x optical zoom. This equates to a focal length of 24-600mm.
Image from Amazon
The focal length is still respectable and allows you to capture many different types of photos. The image sensor is 16 MP, and as a result, you can expect beautifully sharp images. This camera is also capable of recording 720p video at 24FPS, and we appreciate the simple, one-touch recording button.
The Kodak PIXPRO AZ252 also makes photography easier: It has built-in image stabilization to reduce camera shake, and it has a range of automatic program modes.
In terms of power and storage, this camera requires two AA batteries and has a standard SDHC card slot with a maximum capacity of 32 GB.
Pick a Budget Point and Shoot Camera!
We hope you found this guide to the best point and shoot cameras under $300 useful. As you can see, there are some fantastic budget cameras available in 2023.
All of our picks are easy to operate and do not require mastery over lenses and settings. But which camera is the best option for you?
If you want a traditional point and shoot camera with a simple rectangular design, options like the Canon PowerShot ELPH 190, the Kodak PIXPRO FZ43, and the Sony DSC-W830 are great options.
Alternatively, if you want a camera that looks and feels more like a traditional DSLR but without the complexity, check out cameras like the Panasonic Lumix FZ80, the Kodak PIXPRO AZ421, and the Minolta MN35Z.
Finally, if you want a robust point and shoot camera that can be used in various extreme conditions, you’ll love the Fujifilm FinePix XP140 and the Ricoh WG-60; they’re both durable, waterproof options.
New bridge cameras coming soon 2023
Bridge cameras have been the most popular type of digital camera for many years. Over the past few years, we have seen the best bridge cameras in the market perform so well that they rival DSLRs in terms of quality and low light performance.
If you want to capture sports and active moments in your life with a camera, then choosing the best bridge camera under 300 is essential. Digital cameras provide people the best experience of taking clear pictures to keep the memorable moment like an outstanding party.
What is the best bridge camera for you? The camera cannot only provide a great image quality and performance, but it also must be comfortable to carry with you. Here I will give you some details about three cameras that are worth your attention, so read on if you’re interested in learning more!
Bridge cameras are cameras that have features of both an action camera and a DSLR. While it generally lacks the versatility, performance, and ergonomics of a DSLR, it is much easier to use than a GoPro or other action camera. The result is a camera whose performance is quite somewhere between the two types.
Best bridge camera under $300
It’s hard to find cameras with better zooming capabilities than the Nikon Coolpix B500 in this price range, but other cameras such as the Lumix FZ80 are also great. I tested a lot of different models, and was able to pick 5 out of them. We will talk about each one in detail!
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Bridge cameras are interesting choices, that act as a bridge between compact point-and-shoot models and interchangeable lens cameras, hence the name. I can comfortably say that these cameras are pretty interesting choices, especially for those that want to get into this hobby but aren’t quite sure what to expect from it. A lot of photographers I know have started with bridge cameras and when they felt comfortable in their skills went for more advanced models such as DSLRs and mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras.
Now as far as the price of these cameras goes they are pretty affordable, however, for those that are with more limited budgets out there, I will present you the best bridge cameras under $300. All of these picks are chosen based on their performance, features, value for the price, and distinct qualities that make them excellent for you. Now without further ado, let’s get on with it.
ImageProductOur RatingPriceBest Price/PerformancePanasonic LUMIX FZ80 4K10Check Price On AmazonBest For TravelNikon COOLPIX B5009.8Check Price On AmazonBest ZoomingCanon PowerShot SX5309.6Check Price On AmazonBest For BeginnersFujifilm FinePix S48009.5Check Price On AmazonBest Small OptionCanon PowerShot SX4209.2Check Price On Amazon
Table of Contents
The Top 5 Best Bridge Cameras Under $300
- Canon PowerShot SX420
First off in this list we have an interesting camera, the Canon PowerShot SX420. This is a pretty affordable bridge camera that delivers great image quality in its compact DSLR styled body. It is pretty light and small and it has made some interesting improvements upon its predecessor which were received universally well. I think that this camera will do plenty of justice for every beginner photographer, let’s take a look.
The Canon PowerShot SX420 has a pretty small body despite packing 42x optical zoom, which is its main feature and the one that separates it from smartphone cameras of these days. More on that later. The Canon PowerShot SX420 weighs just 11.5 ounces in total complete with the battery and memory card. The body is also pretty ergonomic, especially the handgrip on the front which allows you to get a pretty good grip and overall with its lightweight you can operate it one-handed easily.
The controls of the Canon PowerShot SX420 are pretty basic but still extremely intuitive. Such as the zooming ring around the shutter button and the other buttons located in the back that make things easier for your needs. The camera has a display on the back, but it isn’t a touchscreen, unfortunately, but then again for this price, it is something that we can overlook.
The lens of the Canon PowerShot SX420 is its major selling point like I mentioned earlier and allows you to zoom with up to 42x times optically, which is perfect at this price. I should also mention that the lens is made out of 12 elements, pretty interesting to see when you consider its just 11.5-ounces in weight. The lens also has a built-in image stabilization system and extends up to 8 inches in maximum zoom.
The Canon PowerShot SX420 is equipped with a 1/2.3-inch CCD 20-megapixel image sensor which is pretty good when it combines with the DIGIC 4+ processing engine. Like expected from its size this sensor will deliver some good images but not so much in low light scenarios. Its ISO range spans from 100 to 1,600 at max which is unsatisfactory. However, this camera delivers some good results with its different modes that allow you to take good photographs and progress your skills.
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- Fujifilm FinePix S4800
Moving on with our list we have the Fujifilm FinePix S4800, which is a nice DSLR-like bridge camera that was produced in 2013 initially and since then it has been one of the best for those who want to dive into this hobby without spending a lot. IT has a compact body, good image quality and some nice special Fujifilm features that are our favorites a must consider for beginners.
While you wouldn’t expect a high-end feature-rich and super-speed camera at this price point, there are some things you shouldn’t sacrifice on. The most important thing about this camera is that it is pretty small as it measures about 4.8×3.66×3.94-inches, and it also weighs about 589 grams with the battery and memory card installed. I found out that it is pretty comfortable to hold even for photographers with larger hands and its ergonomics are top-notch, nothing negative to note here.
one of my favorite things about the Fujifilm FinePix S4800 is that it delivered some of the Fujifilm’s creative controls without making things very complicated and confusing. The ease of use was also one of its strong points and it has tons of modes that will make things pretty interesting overall such as the MPO and the Motion Panorama features beside everything else. The LCD is 3-inches large and it has a good resolution of 230k dots.
The Fujifilm FinePix S4800 has a pretty interesting lens that was also used in its predecessor a 30x optical zoom lens. This might not sound pretty interesting but it has a pretty wide 24mm equivalent wide-angle at its lowest and goes up to 720mm telephoto, something which not a lot of lenses can say. This lens has 17 elements which are divided into 12 groups of aspherical and extra-low dispersion elements that do their job rather well in all the intended modes, including macro and fast focus.
The Fujifilm FinePix S4800 is packed with an interesting CCD image sensor which is 16 megapixels in resolution and is of the 1/2.3-inches in size. I can confirm that this camera has a nice enough ISO range that spans from 64 to 1,600 natively but can be boosted up to 6,400 if the need arises. Like I said not the most impressive in terms of specs, but this camera can get a lot done.
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- Canon PowerShot SX530
The third entry on this list comes from Canon again, the Canon PowerShot SX530. This bridge camera despite being a budget and bridge model has som respectable specs that will make any beginner photographer happy. It has a superb sensor of the highest quality, a great zoom range, a nice amount of controls, a lightweight body, a small size, and so much more in this value-based package.
The Canon PowerShot SX530 looks like a mini Canon EOS DSLR from every angle, mostly thanks to the deep and secure handgrip that delivers exceptional ergonomics and the protruding lens. I can confirm that this camera is pretty lightweight and small as it weighs just 442 grams and measures 4.72×3.23×3.62-inches in total. Like I said it feels pretty good in hands and it is very fun to use.
The control layout of the Canon PowerShot SX530 is classic EOS, with the mode dial on top that lets you select between Auto, Scene, Aperture Priority, Shutter pRiority, Manual, and much more. The zoom toggle is also right next to the shutter button and everything in between feels pretty natural with this camera. The 3-inch display is not touch screen but it gets the job done and with the WiFi and NFC capabilities it is a joy to connect.
The Canon PowerShot SX530 has a pretty powerful 50x optical zoom that is equivalent to the wide-angle 24mm to the super-telephoto 1200mm at its most extreme. I can confirm that you will have plenty of fun with this lens as it is a joy to use. On top of that, it has clever image stabilization in the lens which eliminated blur in high-zoom ranges. It also has some interesting features such as the Framing Assist Lock that kept thinks stable on the telephoto range.
This bridge camera is packed with a 16 MP CMOS 1/2/3-inch image sensor that gets the job done in any scenario. It is also a backside-illuminated model and works rather well with the DIGIC 4+ image processing engine. The ISO range spans from 100 to 3200 natively and it delivers a great performance in low light scenarios which was pretty surprising.
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- Nikon COOLPIX B500
The runner up on this list is the Nikon COOLPIX B500, an immensely attractive bridge camera that will teach many beginner photographers about the basics of photography and deliver some excellent photographs. This camera can get a lot done with its high-resolution sensor, electronic viewfinder, a variety of modes, Full HD recording and so much more, let’s take a closer look.
When I first received this product it looked like the COOLPIX L840 which is not a bad thing. However, it had one big difference which we will talk about in a minute. It is a pretty comfortable camera to hold in the hands which is a thing that I value a lot. It is not the smallest but it is not big as well, like a miniature DSLR camera. The handgrip is pretty ergonomic and on the back, it has a thumb grip to keep things stable, no weak points here.
The big difference between this and the L840 is the new mode dial that makes things much easier for any photographer. Both in terms of efficiency and creative control, since you don’t need to access the menus and stuff to get to the modes. There is the rocker for the zoom around the shutter and the rear panel is pretty conventional as expected from Nikon. The screen has a hinge meaning you can flip it for shooting selfies and vlogging for example.
This amazing bridge camera has a 40x zoom range that spans from 22.5mm equivalent super wide to the extreme 900mm super-telephoto on the other end. While it is a little shorter than the Canon model we talked a little earlier it is still pretty good. The maximum aperture of this beast is about f/3 and it closes down to f/6.5 at full zoom, and it delivers some pretty special photographs.
The most impressive thing about the Nikon COOLPIX B500 is that it packs a 16-megapixel backside-illuminated CMOS sensor, which is sized 1/2.3-inches. I can comfortably say that it works very well with the whole ISo range that spans from 80 to 3,200 natively. Low light photographs came out pretty good overall and I am quite impressed with it. Complete with the contrast-detect sensor it managed to focus very well in both normal and macro focus modes.
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- Panasonic Lumix FZ80
The Panasonic Lumix FZ80 is the best bridge camera under the $300, and not just that. This camera is the most well-balanced bridge camera to ever be released as it has amazing ease of use, versatility, functionality, image quality and so much more.
The Panasonic Lumix FZ80 has a pretty classic DSLR shape, and it feels the part as it weighs about 616 grams in total. It doesn’t feel heavy at all, instead, it feels substantial and of the higher quality. It also has some excellent ergonomics that make you feel comfortable while holding the camera even for photographers with larger hands.
The camera has a good range controls on it, including the familiar mode dial that was in the other models in its lineup. The modes in the dial include Intelligent Auto, Creative Video, Custom, Panorama, Scene Guide, Creative Control and video, which all do their jobs to perfection. There are not a lot of buttons but it is pretty good overall. It has a nice electronic viewfinder and the 3-inch 1040k dot resolution LCD touchscreen delivers a great performance.
One of the biggest selling points of this camera is its incredible lens that has a 60x optical zoom range. Thi lens covers the scenes from an ultra-wide 20mm equivalent perspective to 1200mm super extreme telephoto range at its maximum extension which is marvelous. It delivers excellent photographs in all the range and even at the extreme zoom, it delivered exceptional quality.
The Panasonic Lumix FZ80 is equipped with a superb 18 megapixel backside-illuminated CMOS image sensor. It is of the 1/2.3-inch size and it has the Venus Engine image processor to deliver things to perfection. The ISO range spans from 80 to 3,200 natively and can be expanded up to 6,400. Definitely the best at this price point and maybe even if you go higher in the price range.
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Conclusion
As you can see, each camera has its pros and cons, so in the end, you will be the decider. To get the best camera for your needs, you will first need to decide what you are going to use it for, then look at how the camera performs in that specific field.
You should also keep in mind that the lens also plays a big role when it comes to zooming. For example, my brother doesn’t own a zoom camera, but he has a Nikon D5100. He uses his zoom lens for Nikon d5100 to get bridge-camera like quality images.
What i mean by this is that you’re not limited to just bridge cameras. Go out and explore!
The Best Bridge Cameras for 2022
Big superzoom cameras are still referred to as bridge models in many circles. It’s a vestigial term carried over from the days when the large body style was aimed at photographers who wanted to move up from a pocket point-and-shoot (which, at the time, had limited zoom ranges as a rule), but weren’t quite ready for interchangeable lenses. The idea was that a camera like this would bridge that gap, and perhaps encourage the same photographers to eventually move to an SLR.
In the 2020s, the term makes less sense, but it’s stuck around. Modern bridge models can vary greatly in features and capabilities. Models with smaller image sensors boast incredibly long zoom ranges, while cameras with larger sensors can’t keep up with 30x pocket zoom cameras like the Panasonic ZS50 in terms of absolute zoom range, but deliver images that truly bridge the gap between compact and SLR quality.
Small Sensor, Big Zoom
Some bridge cameras pack the same size sensor that you’ll find in a pocket point-and-shoot or a premium smartphone. You’re not going to see a significant jump in image quality when compared with a pocket model, but you’ll be able to enjoy zoom ratios in excess of 50x power. Our favorite model, the Canon SX70 HS, sports a 65x lens that covers an ultra-wide (21mm) to an extremely narrow telephoto (1,365mm) angle. It also sets itself apart from many pocket models and smartphones by offering Raw capture, a very solid optical stabilization system, and an electronic viewfinder.
Canon PowerShot SX70 HS (Photo: Zlata Ivleva)
You can go longer when it comes to zoom—the Nikon P950’s 83x zoom lens covers a 24-2,000mm range—but image quality at the extreme telephoto isn’t as good as it is at wider angles, and autofocus definitely struggles with tiny, quick subjects.
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Nikon also has the P1000, with a one-of-a-kind 24-3,000mm (125x) lens, Raw image capture, and 4K video recording. It’s huge, heavy, and priced on the high side, so it’s definitely not a camera for everyone.
Both the P950 and P1000 are hard to find at retail at press time due to ongoing issues with chip supplies, so you may have to search them out on the secondary market, or wait for Nikon to produce another batch. They’re both speciality options, and there aren’t others out there with the massive zoom range, so we don’t have any sensible alternatives to suggest.https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.501.0_en.html#goog_15090849430 seconds of 1 secondVolume 0%This ad will end in 1
Going in the other direction, the Panasonic FZ300’s lens is a mere 24x power (25-600mm), but it maintains an f/2.8 aperture throughout the entire range, and features one of the best EVFs in its class, along with a weather-sealed design and 4K video capture.
Big Sensor, Shorter Zoom
Sony started putting 1-inch sensors into cameras in 2012 with the pocketable RX100. It didn’t take long for it to follow with the RX10. Sony has streamlined the family down to one model, the high-end RX10 IV. Its 24-600mm F2.4-4 zoom lens is one of the best we’ve seen in any bridge model, and it sports a dust and splash protection. It’s an expensive option, but it backs it up with speedy autofocus and 20MP Raw capture at a blistering 24fps.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV (Photo: Zlata Ivleva)
Other 1-inch models to consider include the FZ1000 II and Leica V-Lux 5. They’re the same camera inside, but the V-Lux matches other Leicas in design and comes with a longer warranty. Both sport lenses that cover a 25-400mm range, a little short for some wildlife, but great for backyard birders and trips to the ballpark.
Choosing the Right Bridge Camera
The bridge camera that’s best for you depends on your budget, your image quality demands, and just how much zoom range you want. Our top pick for backyard wildlife spotters and family vacationers is the Canon SX70 HS. It has an ultra-wide lens, great for landscapes and snapshots in front of famous landmarks, and enough zoom power to snap a shot of a songbird dining at your feeder. But it has its limitations—it’s not the best tool for working in dim light, doesn’t offer weather protection, and isn’t great at focusing on fast-moving subjects.
Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ1000 II (Photo: Zlata Ivleva)
More serious photographers—or families that don’t mind spending a bit more for better image quality—will want to think about a 1-inch sensor model. The lenses don’t wow us with a big zoom factor, but the larger sensor area means you can crop when needed. The Sony RX10 IV is our top pick here. It has a phenomenal lens, reaching 600mm at a relatively bright F4 aperture, and does 4K video, slow motion, and shoots at a speedy 24fps.
And for the edge cases—photographers who just want as much zoom power as possible—there are a pair of models from Nikon that utilize the smaller 1/2.3-inch sensor format, but reach 2,000mm and 3,000mm. The P950 and P1000 are both niche options, but you may find yourself right in that niche. Unfortunately, they are difficult to find at retail right now, so snap one up if you find it in stock.
