What’s a point-and-shoot (P&S) camera, you ask? This large and diversified category includes any digital camera that doesn’t have interchangeable lenses. In other words, if a digital camera isn’t a DSLR, mirrorless, or compact system camera (CSC) with interchangeable lenses, it’s a point-and-shoot.
The Rise of Long-Range-Zoom Point-and-Shoots
Indeed there was an explosion of ultra-long-zoom P&S cameras with zoom ranges from 30X to a staggering 63X that have actually morphed into machines that provide virtually complete DSLR functionality and form factors, albeit with built-in ultra-wide-angle—to-super-telephoto zoom lenses in lieu of interchangeable lenses.
As a generic category, point-and-shoots are facing a serious challenge from the ubiquitous smart phones, many of which can take pretty good pictures these days. However, there’s one very popular class of point-and-shoots that’s rapidly expanding and evolving because it offers an unbeatable combination of convenience, versatility, and performance—long-range-zoom cameras. Also known as ultra-zooms, bridge cameras, or all-in-one compact cameras, many of the latest models provide a shooting experience and performance parameters akin to a DSLR.
Why Should I Buy a Long-Range-Zoom Point-and-Shoot?
These cameras are relatively compact, lightweight, and typically more affordable than DSLRs and compact interchangeable lens system cameras with larger sensors. Many also provide hi-res EVFs and comprehensive feature sets including Full HD 1080p video at a range of framing speeds. They often have the latest must-haves, too, like GPS to literally put your pictures on the map and Wi-Fi connectivity to upload images seamlessly to smart phones and social media.
All of these ultra-long-rangers are great for shooting wildlife, birds, and sports at the long telephoto end of their zoom ranges. However, if you do a lot of indoor shooting or want to capture expansive scenic vistas on your next vacation make sure that the wide-angle end of the zoom is equivalent to 28mm or less so you’ll get the coverage you need. If you take lots of portraits, take a close look at models that provide a constant wide aperture (such as f/2.8) over the entire zoom range so you can create beautiful pictorial effects using shallow depth of field.
There’s another enticing class of long-range-zoom cameras having lenses with less reach, but still impressively long zoom ranges. These devices provide ample shooting versatility for travel and vacation shooting. Ideal for folks on the go that want to travel light, their sleek and slim bodies will typically slide easily into a jacket pocket or handbag. These ultra-compact, stylish long-range zoom cameras provide zoom lenses in the 12X-21X-range and several exciting new models have just been released.
What Features Should I Look for in a Long-Range-Zoom Point-and-Shoot Camera?
Long-range-zoom point-and-shoot cameras run the gamut when it comes to features, internal components, and product specifications. Depending on the type of photography or videography you want to do, these are some of the most important features to seek in your next camera:
- Built-in optical or hybrid image stabilization (IS) to assure sharp shake-free images at long telephoto settings and in low light
- Hi-res LCD and (where applicable) electronic viewfinder (EVF) for precise composition and image evaluation
- Touch-capable Vari Angle LCD screens for more flexibility while shooting
- WiFi, Bluetooth, and NFC connectivity for easy image upload, sharing, and remote-shooting capabilities
- 4K or Full HD (1080p) video capture, preferably with a range of framing rates like super-slow motion
- Face detection (the more faces the better), eye detection for humans and animals, and AI-assisted autofocusing drives
- Subject-tracking modes for photo and video capture
- Wide range of creative modes and effects
- Smart Mode, Easy Mode or Auto Scene selection, which makes it easy for novices and casual shooters to get excellent results automatically
- Wide maximum apertures for better depth-of-field control and flexibility in low light
- Continuous shooting and burst mode for wildlife photography and sports
- Optical zoom for precision and photographs you can enlarge without sacrificing clarity
- Upgraded autofocusing drives with phase-detect and contrast-detect AF points across the frame
The Best Long-Range-Zoom Point-and-Shoot Cameras
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV 20.1MP Digital Camera
When you want to save space for a trip or are wary of investing in a full camera system, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV is one of the best cameras to consider. Between its versatile 24-600mm focal length range and its impressive AF point coverage, this camera can handle just about any subject you encounter.
Features and components like the high-speed BIONZ X image processing engine and enhanced eye autofocusing make this a capable camera compared to popular mirrorless models and DSLR cameras from Sony.
Video features like 4K capability, super-slow motion filming, and Fast Hybrid AF make this camera an all-around solid choice.
Why We Chose This Camera
Photographers shouldn’t have to sacrifice zoom capability, image clarity, and autofocusing performance just because they want to use a bridge camera or point-and-shoot. The Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV works admirably for beginners and more experienced enthusiasts who want a reliable, high-quality camera in a compact package.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII Digital Camera
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC RX100 VII is the latest iteration in a long line of compact, high-performance point-and-shoot cameras.
With 357 phase-detection AF points, 425 contrast-detection AF points, and high-density AF tracking technology, this is one of the most advanced point-and-shoots on the market when it comes to focusing.
The built in ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* 24-200mm f/2.8-f/4.5 provides beautiful image quality beyond what you may expect from a point-and-shoot. Plus, Sony’s new Single Burst Shooting function captures seven shots with a single press of the shutter button. You can choose between 90 fps, 60 fps, and 30 fps.
Why We Chose This Camera
Photographers have plenty of choices for point-and-shoot cameras, but few are as versatile and high-performing as the Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII. AI-based real-time subject tracking and eye AF help you keep your subjects in focus, while active image stabilization provides smoother, more professional handheld video.
Nikon COOLPIX P950 Digital Camera
Nikon’s COOLPIX P950 offers valuable features at a competitive price point. With a focal range of 24-2000mm, this is one of the most powerful cameras on this list. The Dual Detect Optical Vibration Reduction manages camera shake handily and offers up to 5.5 stops of in-camera stabilization.
Increased buffer capacity lets you enjoy continuous shooting of wildlife, sports, and other fast-moving subjects in burst mode without delays and without bogging down your processor. Photographers who prefer point-and-shoot cameras shouldn’t be limited by low-light conditions. The COOLPIX P950 contains a 16 MP low-light CMOS sensor that can handle accurate autofocusing in even the dimmest environments.
Why We Chose This Camera
Photographers who shoot with the COOLPIX P950 commonly mention that it has quickly replaced their larger, heavier cameras for just about any use or adventure. If you’re looking for a comprehensive still and video-recording camera that’s easy to use and packed with features, you should put the P950 at the top of your list.
Nikon COOLPIX P1000 Digital Point & Shoot Camera
The most important specification worth mentioning for the Nikon COOLPIX P1000 is the unparalleled 3000mm zoom. Unless you’re a photographer with a massive budget, you simply won’t find a similar focal range in a mirrorless or DSLR style camera.
The high-quality 3000mm zoom brings even the most distant objects into detailed view, from the craters on the moon to far-off wildlife on safari. A 1-foot close focusing distance means you can also use that zoom power to create detail-rich macro photographs.
Improved ergonomic features from prior models include a smooth control ring, snapback zoom button, enhanced hand grips, and a versatile vari-angle view screen.
Why We Chose This Camera
While other cameras on this list may boast higher megapixel counts, no other camera in its class has telephoto lens capabilities like the P1000. Considering that this point-and-shoot is also capable of capturing video in 4K, it’s one of the most flexible compact cameras on the market.
Minolta MN53Z 16MP FHD Digital Camera, 53x Zoom, Black with Essentials Kit
The Minolta MN53Z offers strong specs at an ultra-affordable, entry-level price. With 16 MP photo resolution, 1080p FHD video resolution, and a 24-1256mm f/2.8-f/5.6 zoom lens, you can shoot wildlife, landscapes, portraits, sports, and a range of other challenging subjects.
The ISO range of 100-3200 can handle most lighting situations with minimal noise, while the 53x optical zoom offers plenty of zoom range without sacrificing clarity. Shutter speeds range from 1/2000 to a 30-second setting for long exposures so you can explore subject movement or capture flowing waterfalls.
Why We Chose This Camera
The Minolta MN53Z is a terrific choice for those who want a capable long-range point-and-shoot camera with helpful features and a price that works for any budget. Automatic scene modes help less-experienced photographers get the look they’re hoping for, while blink detection makes it easier to take group photos without the disappointment of closed eyes.
Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80 Digital Point & Shoot Camera
Panosonic’s Lumix DC-FZ80 is another budget-friendly point-and-shoot with plenty of helpful features. An 18 MP sensor, 20-1200mm zoom equivalent, and 4K-video-shooting capabilities deliver plenty of flexibility for content creators of all skill levels.
The zoom operates quickly and quietly, so whether you’re photographing finicky animals or a family event, you can get your shot without disturbing the action.
Choose from the electronic viewfinder or the rear LCD touchscreen, and frame your shot perfectly every time — even in bright sunlight.
When you want a point-and-shoot that’s equally affordable and capable, you won’t be let down by the Lumix DC-FZ80.
Why We Chose This Camera
Between the WiFi connectivity and HDMI D out, this camera offers helpful image transfer flexibility. The unique 4K PHOTO mode helps photographers pick the decisive moment by recording photos at up to 30 frames per second. Stop relying on your cell phone to capture photos, and select an affordable point-and-shoot like this Lumix.
Conclusion
Most long-range-zoom point-and-shoot users are either trying to replace their cell phone for vacation snaps or are looking to reduce the weight of their camera bags without sacrificing functionality.
No matter which category you fall into, it’s always smart to pay close attention to available features and specifications when shopping for your next camera.
If you travel far and wide and tend to shoot in a range of weather conditions, it’s a good idea to focus on build quality and weather sealing. But if you’re looking for comprehensive post processing, check out any available RAW-capable cameras. And if shooting video is your goal, prioritize 4K cameras with HDMI ports, microphone jacks, and long battery life.
Switching to a high-end point-and-shoot is an excellent way to breathe new life into your photography with a modest investment and a minimal learning curve. Any of the cameras on this list deserve a spot in your camera bag.
