Most of us already carry a small, pocketable camera on all of our rides—our smartphones. Whereas new telephone cameras are advancing, you may nonetheless profit from an actual digital camera to correctly seize a panorama or fast-moving motion pictures, particularly in poor lighting circumstances. The excellent news is: you don’t must lug round a cumbersome DSLR camera on the bike to get prime picture high quality. Also called point-and-shoots or journey cameras, these compacts are all nice choices for getting crisp pictures and movies proper out of your jersey pocket.
Try fast reviews beneath of our top-five compact cameras, or scroll deeper for useful shopping for information and full reviews of these fashions plus different high-ranking choices.
Bicycling’s Decide
Complete Skilled Rating: 88/100
A cultured compact for images lovers finest used for high-quality stills.
Greatest Massive Sensor
Complete Skilled Rating: 88/100
An inexpensive, premium compact with class-leading picture and video high quality.
Greatest Video
Complete Skilled Rating: 87/100
A complicated, pocketable compact with spectacular 4K video capabilities.
Greatest Waterproof
Complete Skilled Rating: 80/100
Don’t fear about recording on rocky trails or in poor climate with this powerful compact.
Greatest Price range
Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS
Complete Skilled Rating: 80/100
A sensible finances compact with quick efficiency in auto mode.
Discover the Proper Compact Digital Digital camera
A number of of our favourite on-the-bike photographers have really helpful compact point-and-shoots for taking superior using pictures. However compacts can vary from low cost fashions solely meant for use in auto mode to premium ones with strong, similar to a professional DSLR. When in search of a balanced compact, biking photographer Mae Elizabeth Gurene suggests, “You desire a camera that makes taking pictures easy, and nonetheless permits guide changes.”
High quality options to search for embrace quick start-up and autofocus, excessive zoom, massive sensors, 4k video, and viewfinders. Nonetheless, remember that compacts with the biggest sensors and viewfinders just like the Panasonic Lumix LX100 additionally are likely to sacrifice a few of their pocketability. In the meantime, the smallest and most inexpensive choices like Canon’s PowerShot ELPH 360 HS have fewer guide controls for extra superior photographers. When trying to find a camera that’s appropriate together with your rides, additionally take into account if its battery life will make it by a protracted day, if it has a rugged or waterproof construct to outlive on the path, and if it contains Wi-Fi connectivity to share your pictures instantly.
How We Rated Them
We researched 14 knowledgeable sources and 4,400 client reviews to pick out the highest 10 compact digital cameras of the yr. To find out our Complete Skilled Rating, we calculate the scores from trusted publications resembling Tech Radar, CNET, Digital Traits, Digital Digital camera World, and Digital Pictures Review, and convert them to a 100-point scale to make it simpler so that you can weigh one of the best choices. Our Shopper Rating represents the proportion of shoppers who rated the product a minimum of 4 out of 5 stars on retail websites like Amazon, Greatest Purchase, and Adorama.
Bicycling’s Decide
Fujifilm X100F
Complete Skilled Rating: 88/100 | Shopper Rating: 92% give it 4 stars or greater
A cultured compact for images lovers finest used for high-quality stills.
24.3 MP | 8 FPS | Video: 1080p | Battery Life: 390 pictures
Dimensions (WxHxD): 5 x 3 x 2 in | Weight: 469 g | Show: 3 in
Fujifilm X100F
Professionals
- Retro design
- Hybrid viewfinder
Lots of the biking photographers we featured just lately shoot with the Fujifilm X100T as a result of it matches right into a jersey pocket and produces high-quality photographs that rival a DSLR. The up to date Fujifilm X100F mannequin provides the identical traditional design and controls with improved autofocus and picture high quality. Amazon consumers thought the X100F was a terrific improve to the earlier mannequin. One stated it’s “a extra feature-rich, versatile, higher-resolution camera than the X100T.”
The X100F could also be costly for a compact camera, nevertheless it’s one of the best compact for lovers in accordance with specialists resembling Tech Radar, CNET, and PCMag. Naming it one of the best compact for stills beneath $1,500, CNET wrote that it’s finest for individuals “who prize the expertise of guide images as a lot because the pictures.” It’s not designed as an motion camera, however for if you simply can’t resist stopping midride for a up-close portrait or panorama shot, the X100F is among the most premium compact choices.
Greatest Massive Sensor
Panasonic Lumix LX100
Complete Skilled Rating: 88/100 | Shopper Rating: 86% give it 4 stars or greater
An inexpensive, premium compact with class-leading picture and video high quality.
12.8 MP | 40 FPS | Video: 4k | Battery Life: 350 pictures
Dimensions (WxHxD): 4.5 x 2.6 x 2.2 in | Weight: 393 g | Show: 3 in
Panasonic Lumix LX100
Professionals
- Nice picture and video high quality, even in low gentle
- Massive sensor and viewfinder
Cons
- Sluggish to start out up
- Too massive for small pockets
Panasonic’s Lumix LX collection is understood for its massive four-thirds sensor that creates superior photographs in lots of lighting circumstances in comparison with different compacts. Digital Pictures Review gave the Lumix LX100 its Gold Award when it was first launched in 2014, stating that its lens, controls, and picture high quality “lead us to declare the LX100 as probably the greatest compact cameras thus far.”
Its metallic physique and controls make it really feel sturdy and agency to carry. One reviewer on B&H Photograph Video wrote that the Lumix LX100 “has a well-made {and professional} really feel to it with nice logical controls and a easy to make use of and customizable menu.” Nonetheless, the collapsible lens nonetheless juts out a bit from its metallic physique, making this mannequin much less handy for small jersey pockets in comparison with the Sony CyberShot and Canon PowerShot.
For an much more premium choice, take into account the up to date Panasonic Lumix LX100 II with Bluetooth and a touch-sensitive monitor.
Greatest Video
Sony CyberShot RX100 IV
Complete Skilled Rating: 87/100 | Shopper Rating: 84% give it 4 stars or greater
A complicated, pocketable compact with spectacular 4K video capabilities.
20.1 MP | 16 FPS | Video: 4k | Battery Life: 280 pictures
Dimensions (WxHxD): 4 x 2.29 x 1.61 in | Weight: 298 g | Show: 2.95 in
Sony Cyber-Shot RX100 IV
Professionals
- Excessive-res viewfinder
- Nice slow-motion video
Cons
- No touchscreen
- Poor battery life
The RX100 IV mannequin of Sony’s CyberShot provides one of the best steadiness of superior picture and video high quality, measurement, and price ticket. Although it lacks a touchscreen, it contains a tilting display and pop-up electrical viewfinder. CNET wrote that it’s “a pleasant alternative in case you’re in search of a complicated compact with class-leading video capabilities,” resembling sluggish movement.
There are cheaper compacts for high-quality stills, however the CyberShot is the best choice for cyclists who need to seize methods and jumps on video. One Greatest Purchase purchaser admitted that “sure, it’s costly,” nevertheless it’s a complicated compact that “will seize pro-level pictures proper out of your pocket.”
Greatest Waterproof
Olympus Robust TG-5
Complete Skilled Rating: 80/100 | Shopper Rating: 76% give it 4 stars or greater
Don’t fear about recording on rocky trails or in poor climate with this powerful compact.
12 MP | 20 FPS | Video: 4k | Battery Life: 340 pictures
Dimensions (WxHxD): 4.4 x 2.6 x 1.3 in | Weight: 250 g | Show: 3 in
OLYMPUS Robust TG-5
Professionals
- Sharp, speedy photographs
- Sturdy and travel-proof
Cons
- Prices greater than different compacts
In a position to survive 50-foot dives, 7-foot falls, and below-freezing temperatures, the TG-5 is actually powerful sufficient to deal with rocky path rides. Wirecutter chosen Olympus’s TG-5 as one of the best waterproof camera for picture lovers, and Tech Radar named it “one of the best rugged, waterproof compact you should buy.” However don’t be fooled by its rugged exterior: It could possibly nonetheless produce sharp, gorgeous photographs.
Each informal and skilled customers beloved utilizing this straightforward point-and-shoot camera on the seaside, underwater, and for a lot of different outside adventures. One Amazon purchaser stated, “It is a wonderful camera! Works incredible underwater and on land. Very function wealthy and straightforward to make use of.”
Greatest Price range
Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS
Complete Skilled Rating: 80/100 | Shopper Rating: 91% give it 4 stars or greater
A sensible finances compact with quick efficiency in auto mode.
20.2 MP | 30 FPS | Video: 1080p | Battery Life: 265 pictures
Dimensions (WxHxD): 3.9 x 2.3 x .9 in | Weight: 147 g | Show: 3 in
Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS
Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS
Professionals
- Speedy start-up and autofocus
- Slim and light-weight physique
- Wi-Fi connectivity
Cons
- Low battery life
- Fastened, non-touch display
Although there are extra spectacular PowerShots and different compacts, the ELPH 360 HS is one of the best finances mannequin as a result of it trades a premium exterior and guide controls for a small, easy, and inexpensive design. It could possibly nonetheless seize vivid and sharp photographs, even in pretty low lighting circumstances. Its start-up time and autofocus system are additionally quick, and also you received’t must fiddle with complicated controls, so that you’re much less more likely to miss a wildlife or motion shot on the path.
Wirecutter listed the PowerShot ELPH 360 HS as one of the best low cost compact, noting that it’s “sufficiently small to go in all places with you, slipping right into a bag or your pants pocket, however the buttons are nonetheless sufficiently big for grownup fingers.” Greatest Purchase reviewers additionally loved utilizing it as a journey camera in auto mode. “I actually like having the ability to carry this little man round my neck or tucked into a little bit gadget bag on the bike,” stated one bicycle owner.
Different Excessive-Rating Choices to Take into account
Leica D-Lux
Complete Skilled Rating: 85/100 | Shopper Rating: 91% give it 4 stars or greater
An alternative choice to Panasonic’s Lumix LX100 with Leica’s traditional design.
12.8 MP | 30 FPS | Video: 4k | Battery Life: 300 pictures
Dimensions (WxHxD): 4.6 x 2.6 x 2.4 in | Weight: 405 g | Show: 3 in
Leica D-Lux (Kind 109)
Professionals
- Massive sensor
- Nice digital viewfinder
Cons
- Fastened display with out contact sensitivity
- No entrance grip
The Leica D-Lux shares the identical massive sensor and prime quality lens because the Panasonic Lumix LX100, however primarily differs in its clean, rounded design and rectangular management buttons. Some Amazon reviewers did suggest shopping for the non-obligatory grip or case as a result of the camera lacks a entrance grip. Both means, the D-Lux supplies skilled dealing with and efficiency.
Although the just about an identical Panasonic Lumix LX100 prices rather less, Tech Radar concludes that the Leica D-Lux remains to be a great choice for photographers “who’re in search of a smaller, high-quality different” to massive DSLRs. Just like the Lumix LX100, the D-Lux is appropriate for knowledgeable photographers who desire a compact with loads of guide controls and high-image high quality.
Canon PowerShot G7 Mark II
Complete Skilled Rating: 82/100 | Shopper Rating: 94% give it 4 stars or greater
Improve out of your iPhone camera or older compact with Canon’s premium point-and-shoot.
20.1 MP | 8 FPS | Video: 1080p | Battery Life: 265 pictures
Dimensions (WxHxD): 4.15 x 2.4 x 1.65 in | Weight: 319 g | Show: 3 in
Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II
Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II
Professionals
- Tilting LCD touchscreen
- High quality pictures in all lighting
Cons
- No viewfinder
- Quick battery life
- Lacks 4k video
The Canon PowerShot G7 Mark II provides nice worth for a premium compact with its spectacular picture high quality and guide controls, although it lacks 4k video. Wired chosen it as its favourite point-and-shoot, writing, “It’s not exhausting to see why this versatile, transportable camera is price its $700 price ticket.”
Consultants and customers recommended its massive 1-inch sensor, nice low-light pictures, Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, and quick autofocus. One Amazon purchaser really helpful, “if you wish to take a lot of nice photos simply and with out the trouble of lugging a number of tools round, look into this camera!”
Ricoh GR II
Complete Skilled Rating: 81/100 | Shopper Rating: 89% give it 4 stars or greater
A light-weight, large-sensor compact finest for landscapes and road images.
16.2 MP | 30 FPS | Video: 1080p | Battery Life: 320 pictures
Dimensions (WxHxD): 4.6 x 2.5 x 1.4 in | Weight: 251 g | Show: 3 in
Ricoh GR II
Professionals
- Massive APS-C sensor with compact and light-weight physique
Cons
- No 4k video or built-in picture stabilization
- Difficult Wi-Fi connection
The Ricoh GR II is extra pocketable than different compacts with equally massive sensors, making it a terrific choice to take with you on the bike. PC Magazine gave the GR II its Editor’s Selection award, claiming that it’s “a modest replace to many a photographer’s favourite pocket camera.”
On B&H Photograph Video, a number of reviewers beloved utilizing the Ricoh rather than massive DSLRs for outdoor images whereas mountaineering or mountain biking. One wrote that the “vast angle is so helpful outdoor” and that it could actually “take pictures rapidly with out slowing anybody down.” Its wide-angle lens excels extra with landscapes than portraits or motion pictures of your group experience. Although it has steady taking pictures modes, its JPG seize is slower than others at 4 frames per second. Fanatic or pastime photographers can save photographs as each RAW or JPEG. Nonetheless, specialists and customers additionally report connectivity points with the Wi-Fi system.
Panasonic Lumix LX10
Complete Skilled Rating: 84/100 | Shopper Rating: 77% give it 4 stars or greater
A well-balanced compact with nice auto and guide controls for stills or video.
20.1 MP | 30 FPS | Video: 4k | Battery Life: 260 pictures
Dimensions (WxHxD): 4.2 x 2.4 x 1.7 in | Weight: 310 g | Show: 3 in
Panasonic Lumix LX10
Panasonic Lumix LX10
Now 17% Off
Professionals
- Quick, correct autofocus system
- Good, steady video
Cons
- Low battery life
- No digital viewfinder
This Panasonic Lumix with a 1-inch sensor options quick autofocus, stabilized 4k video, and a flip-up touchscreen, however lacks an digital viewfinder and helpful grips. Digital Pictures Review wrote, “Its worth level, broad stills and video functionality, and likable dealing with in all probability make the LX10 a well-balanced camera.”
Photographers will benefit from the Panasonic Lumix LX10 in the event that they want a compact that may do all of it—from guide to computerized controls and nonetheless photographs to movies. One reviewer on Adorama stated, “In case you’re a smartphone consumer seeking to discover a camera that takes higher pics, the LX10 is a good choice.”
Nikon Coolpix A900
Complete Skilled Rating: 80/100 | Shopper Rating: 73% give it 4 stars or greater
A sturdy little compact with lengthy zoom that’s handy for touring.
20 MP | 30 FPS | Video: 4k | Battery Life: 270 pictures
Dimensions (WxHxD): 4.5 x 2.7 x 1.6 in | Weight: 298 g | Show: 3 in
Nikon Coolpix A900
Professionals
- Tilting LCD display
- Spectacular 35X optical zoom lens
Cons
- No viewfinder
- Lacks picture sharpness
Gadget Review complimented the Nikon Coolpix A900’s “nice options in a comparatively skinny camera,” and New York Journal known as the Nikon Coolpix A900 the “finest everyday-use digital camera,” as a result of it’s “simple to make use of,” “powerful sufficient to be tossed in your purse, backpack, or glove field,” and “takes good photos, too.” The titling LCD display, wi-fi Wi-Fi connectivity, and 4k video are all bonuses on the Coolpix’s worth level.
Customers appreciated this compact’s rubber grip and light-weight weight, making it simple to carry alongside on adventures. One Greatest Purchase purchaser who acquired this Coolpix for a visit abroad wrote, “I wished one thing simple sufficient for a novice to make use of and one thing that might not be too cumbersome or fragile. This met all my wants and took superb photos.”
Paige Szmodis is an editor for Runner’s World, Bicycling, and Standard Mechanics, who researches and writes house, tech, and outside product reviews and information.
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