In the age of the smartphone, compact cameras have had to evolve in order to survive. No longer are they simple point-and-shoots or versatile travel-zooms, but rather they are often premium devices with large sensors and sharp lenses or even bigger zoom ranges, ultimately giving superior image quality or greater versatility than your average smartphone camera.
The world’s best compacts can cost as much as, if not more than, the latest flagship smartphones, but don't be put off by their high prices. In 2022, our Cameras editor bought a compact camera instead of the latest iPhone, because cameras handle better for photography and help focus your creativity in a way that a smartphone cannot with all of its additional distractions.
Compact cameras can fit in your pocket, are portable and discreet, and that’s what makes them particularly popular for street and documentary photography. Some models, such as the Fujifilm X100V – which holds the top position in our best compact camera guide – have been enjoying a resurgence in 2023, which goes to show that there’s life in the compact camera market yet.
Latest about Compact Cameras
Leica D-Lux 8 review: Leica, for less
The D-Lux 8 offers the Leica experience for an affordable price, but it's not a big upgrade over its predecessor.
The best compact cameras for 2024
Updated Our best compact camera for 2024 guide will help you find the right pocket camera for you, whatever your budget.
Alfie Cameras TYCH+ review: pocket-sized analogue creativity unleashed
Alfie Cameras Tych+ is a tiny half-frame film camera with a neat rotating quadruple lens board and compact design and we love it.
Where to buy the Fujifilm X100VI: current delivery estimates and the best retailers
Let's secure you a shiny new camera with our guide on where to buy the Fujifilm X100VI - including the latest shipping estimates.
Bubblegum pink point-and-shoot film camera unveiled for Barbie fans, complete with matching bag
Specialist retro tech restorers Retrospekt team up with Mattel to create a cheap Barbie-themed film camera.
Pentax 17 review: a modern analog charmer
The Pentax 17 is a half-frame compact film camera with plenty of charm and some neat design touches, if you can stomach the price.
Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VIII: everything we know and what we want to see
Everything we know about the Sony RX100 VIII, and all the features we want to see from this premium compact camera.
The Leica D-Lux 8 premium compact has officially launched – and it's your cheapest way to grab a new Leica
Leica's newly designed D-Lux 8 is like a baby Leica Q3, but disappointingly it's core specs are largely the same as the six year old D-Lux 7.
