Best Point and Shoot Cameras Under $300 – Top 7 Picks (NEW Guide)

Last updated on June 1st, 2021 at 06:12 am

We have always known point and shoot cameras to be a cheap camera replacement in times of urgent photography needs. However, constant technological advancements have led to a vast improvement in point-and-shoot cameras, with them offering premium image quality from a compact body. Some renowned versions offer amazing full-frame sensors while others don’t hold back on the optical zoom: there’s something for everyone.  

However, the biggest issue lies with your budget. Most people aren’t willing to spend more than $300 but demand outstanding features and stunning shots. If you’re one of them, you don’t need to fret since we have listed the best point-and-shoot cameras under $300. Every factor, including the sensor type, optical zoom, and ISO sensitivity, has been taken into account to ensure that you get the best gadget within your limited budget.    

Best Point and Shoot Cameras Under $300

Nikon COOLPIX B500	Canon PowerShot SX720	Canon PowerShot ELPH
BEST OVERALL Digital zoom up to 80x Vast shooting modes	PREMIUM CHOICE Great image saturation Several modes	BEST BUDGET Great image quality Pocket-friendly body
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Point and Shoot Camera Reviews

1. Nikon COOLPIX B500 Digital Camera

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Features:

The Nikon Coolpix B500 is a great option for beginners and enthusiasts looking for a travel camera. With a 16 megapixel sensor and 40x optical zoom, there’s nothing more a novice needs. Moreover, it utilizes the signature SnapBridge Technology for a quick smartphone connection and effortless sharing.  

Build quality

As we mentioned earlier, B500 could easily pass as a travel camera with a midsized body: not the smallest in the market but definitely pocket friendly. It consists of a chunky handgrip for enhanced security while it’s textured surface adds to the overall aesthetics of the camera. The rest of the camera features a sleek appearance. It’s also pretty light to hold, making it easy for single-handed photography. Moving on, there’s a dial on the top for switching between different shooting modes, including automatic, scene, creative, movie mode, etc.: we missed the manual modes in some shooting locations. The zoom rocker alters the zoom length by moving from wide-angle to telephoto while the rest of the traditional layout comprises of a navigation pad and several buttons.  

Performance

We were pretty impressed by the amount of control over camera settings while using the fully automatic mode: it allows users to adjust the white balance and ISO. The AF settings can be set to manual if you want your own AF point, but most people prefer B500s fast and accurate Macro focusing system to decide one for them.  

The famous SnapBridge Technology is a great way to set a constant Bluetooth connection with your smartphone to share images immediately, but the WiFi connectivity makes it easier to transfer larger sized photos.

It features a ”Creative Mode” with several sets that allow you to apply four different filters to the original shot, such as Light, Memory, Classic, Noir, etc. You can use the Short Movie Show to create short clips of fun events and combine them automatically. B500 tends to perform the best under natural lighting: the results are highly detailed, vibrant, and well saturated with minimal smoothing.    

Fortunately, it features image stabilization, which creates blur-free shots while using longer telephoto lengths.

Most people like the AA batteries since it’s easy to replace them so you won’t need to undergo the hassle of carrying spare ones; however, they are pretty expensive in the long run.  

Bottom line

This is a great option for all those looking for a great zoom ratio on a handy travel camera. The textured look matches the aesthetic of many photographers, while the screen tilting makes it easier to capture awkward angles. Even though performance under artificial lighting isn’t the best, the other images featured great exposure and vibrant colors.

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2. Panasonic Lumix ZS50 Camera

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Features:

We consider Panasonic to be the best manufacturer of travel cameras. They’ve been striving to make the photography experiences of travel enthusiasts and beginners valuable by offering amazing features at an affordable price. The Panasonic Lumix ZS50 is another such camera with stunning image quality- much better than it’s predecessors.  

Build quality

The first thing we want to mention is that we were shocked to see a builtin electronic viewfinder considering ZS50s price. It makes it easy to compose images under bright light that can also be viewed on the 3-inch 920,000-dot display at the back. There are several auto controls and manual controls for adjusting the settings quickly. There is a Hybrid Optical Image Stabilizer five-axis anti-shake system for keeping things steady under constant movements: this proves handy when you’re shooting landscapes from inside your car. With Wifi connectivity, you get to compose images and control Lumix through the Panasonics app while there’s an NFC for quicker connection on compatible devices.  

Performance

Lumix features Panasonic’s signature Light Speed AF technology that immediately locks on to the desired subject even on the farthest end of the telephoto lens. It doesn’t work as well under artificial lighting conditions, but we didn’t have to compromise much. We already mentioned the Hybrid OIS+ and its efficiency at the lens full reach: you won’t notice any decline in the resolution or details. Moreover, there is an Intelligent Zoom feature for double the optical zoom but isn’t the photographer’s best choice.  

The battery lasts perfectly for around 300 shots. However, travelers should always carry a spare battery. Beginners find it easier to operate the camera in the automatic mode as it allows them to make full use of the huge zoom range while professional photographers take benefit of the manual control exposure and raw format. The zoom range is the reason why ZS50 lies on this list: it’s versatile enough for shooting multiple scenarios ranging from portraits to faraway landscapes. The final images from this sensor shocked us with the great details, vibrancy, and natural look. However, you may need to make a comprise with the smoothness under low ISO sensitivity too.  

Furthermore, the all-purpose metering system produces accurate images, and there’s hardly any need for post-production exposure compensation.  

Bottom line

The huge zoom range and compact body make it a versatile gadget for travel enthusiasts. The stunning image quality at such a low price was beyond appealing, while the wide range of features and manual control made it worth investing in. Even though we couldn’t make use of the 4k video capture, the other resolutions weren’t disappointing either.

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3. Canon PowerShot SX720 HS

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Features:

Canon has ruled the camera market for several decades with much of its success owing to the stunning image quality, innovative features, and powerful performance. Canon PowerShot SX720 HS is one of their leading point-and-shoot cameras that makes traveling and recording memories much more fun.  

Build quality

Powershot features a slim design that packs the huge 40x optical zoom much to our amazement. As we mentioned earlier, it’s great for being your travel companion with a small, lightweight body that easily fits into your pocket and doesn’t create any hassle. The brushed metal look and rounded corners give it a sleek and stylish look while the rubberized grip enhances your control over the device. Moreover, it features a simple layout for easy navigation around buttons and menus. There is a shutter release button and on/off switch on the top with an inbuilt flash and zoom frame assist button on the left-hand side. Moreover, the mode dial allows us to adjust the settings related to exposure compensation and shutter speed, especially when using the manual mode.  

Performance

The zoom frame assist button is a great addition to enhance the focus: when the subject moves out of sight after zooming in, the button relocates the subject and goes back to the same focal length to save considerable time. However, we were disappointed since you can’t shoot in a raw format, but the semi-automatic and manual controls made our day.  

There is a Hybrid Auto mode that takes two-second videos before each shot to amalgamate them into great event video for long-lasting memories. On the other hand, the Creative Shot mode allows users to experiment with different looks by applying various filters and crops to your images such as Retro or Monochrome: this proves handy for people maintaining a themed portfolio.  

It’s confusing how Canon doesn’t allow users to change the autofocus point: the center point can be selected manually, but most people prefer switching to the Tracking AF mode for automatic selection. This works pretty well under daylight conditions while the focusing light assists shot under dark light. Needless to say, it’s pretty fast and accurate.

Furthermore, the image quality is worth appreciating considering the punchy, vibrant colors, and the right amount of saturation under good lighting. The featured blues didn’t give off a cyan tinge, and we couldn’t be happier. The details in low ISOs are pretty great, and you won’t notice any noise and image smoothing up till ISO 1600.  

Bottom line

Canons travel cameras have always been famous, and Canon PowerShot SX720 HS doesn’t change this opinion. The huge optical zoom redefines the way photographers perceive zoomed images while the stylish design makes it an enthusiast favorite.

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4. Panasonic Lumix FZ80 4K Digital Camera

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Features:

We agree that amidst the wave of DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, the probability of consumers spending on point-and-shoot cameras is highly unlikely. However, Panasonic Lumix FZ80 is an exceptional offering several innovative features at a very affordable price. This compact, all-in-one camera effortlessly fulfills your photography needs regardless of the subject.  

Build quality

Compared to the other cameras, Lumix weighs in at 616g, including a battery and SD card making it pretty light to carry around while the well-balanced design keeps it stable. There is a comfortable grip for safety purposes and a thumb plate at the back to enhance your comfort while shooting. The mode dial on the top allows you to switch between various shooting modes ranging from Intelligent Auto, Creative Video, C (Custom), Panorama Shot, Creative Control, and many more. Moreover, we were impressed by the simple button layout with a few labeled buttons for easier navigation. The menu system is pretty easy to scroll through and allows quick access to common settings.  

Performance

The lightning-fast AF system is impressive, locking onto the subject immediately after pressing the shutter button. The AF macro setting allows you to take advantage of the 1cm focus distance, but some photographers may go as far as 1200 mm. There are quite a few focus modes, including Face detection, tracking, custom multi, 1-area single point, and Pinpoint, so users can have full control over the image.  

Moving on, Lumix shoots up to 10fps in single-shot AF mode and 6fps in continuous AF mode, which is impressive considering the low price. You can expect around 330 shots from a single battery charge, but we always recommend users to carry a spare battery due to several affecting factors.  

Furthermore, Panasonic’s signature Power O.I.S. Image stabilization is ideal for low light shooting and slow shutter speeds: it is effective even while shooting images and videos at the highest focal length.

It consists of Wifi connectivity for sharing images easily through the Panasonics image app. It also allows users to operate the camera, adjust the settings, and view the live feed. Images come best at ISO800 due to the small sensor, any higher, and you’ll notice significant noise and sharp edges. However, the image quality is maintained at low ISOs, and with the 20-1200 zoom, you aren’t really missing out on much: use flash for portraits and a tripod for static subjects to get the best image results.  

Bottom line

Everyone can now appreciate Panasonic Lumix FZ80 for being a quite attractive all-rounder camera that doesn’t compromise on image quality, range of features, and power-packed performance. Even though we could do with a better electronic viewfinder, the easy to use interface and image stabilization makes up for it.

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5. Sony DSCWX350 18 MP Digital Camera

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Features:

Sony DSC-WX350 offered us a much-needed upgrade from its previous model, Sony Cybershot WX350. Even though it was well-received, the users demanded some minor tweaks, and Sony, as always, didn’t fail to fulfill our expectations.  

Build quality

Its relatively lighter and features the signature Bionz X image processor, which means that you get an exemplary performance from a seemingly fragile body. There is a 3-inch 460K-dot-resolution LCD screen, 20x optical zoom, while Sonys Clear Image Zoom technology offers a whopping 40x digital zoom. Moreover, it also features an 18MP sensor and a 24-1200mm Sony G Lens. All of these features, coupled with the Optical SteadyShot image stabilization, work together to create stunning images under every lighting condition. It also offers NFC connectivity that connects to compatible devices for hassle-free photo sharing after a single tap.  

Performance

As we mentioned earlier, it features the BIONZ X processor, which not only decreases the processing time but also allows the camera to perform exceptionally well under low light conditions. There are five shooting modes, including Superior Auto and Intelligent Auto, 14 Scene Modes, a dedicated Panorama Mode, and Superior Auto that appeal to many users with a distinct aesthetic sense. Moreover, there are 13 photo creativity filters to help users get similar effects of Instagram and Flickr. With Program Auto, you can control the white balance, focusing, metering, and sensitivity too. In short, this camera is perfect for all those fond of editing their pictures after shooting.  

Talking about the image quality, it is well balanced and metered properly. However, you don’t need to fret about underexposed shots as they can be fixed post-production through exposure compensation. The images feature a great edge to edge sharpness without any fringing and chromatic aberration. Moreover, there isn’t any visible noise up till ISO3200, and it fares even well under bright lighting conditions. The final shots represent bright, punchy subjects with vibrant colors- nothing different than real life.  

Furthermore, the battery is capable of shooting up to 470 shots in a single charge that is more than enough for most photographers.  

Bottom line

There’s nothing not to like about Sony DSC-WX350. From an amazing zoom to vibrant images and excellent performance, the camera never fails to amaze us. Although we never expect anything less from Sony, the under $300 price tag is what makes this camera a part of our list. This is the ideal choice for all photographers opting for a digital camera.

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6. Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 Digital Camera

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Features:

PowerShot ELPH 360 is a product of Canon, the leading camera manufacturer. We are always keen to try out Canon cameras since they always astound us with their innovative features and powerful performance. Needless to say, ELPH 360 was equally amazing, if not more. There weren’t any new features to fantasize about but was rather a combination of some of the Canons’ best components.  

Build quality

We love gadgets with a basic exterior. Therefore, this sleek and stylish camera was a treat for us. The solid colored body features a simple layout with minimal buttons. This means that you may need to spend additional time going through menus to select your desired setting. It is pretty thin at only 0.9 inches: not only can it easily fit into your pocket, but it boasts a 12x optical zoom lens too. We still don’t get how the manufacturers managed to fit the lens in there. There isn’t any viewfinder but a 3-inch screen with 461,000 pixels.  

Performance

This model maintains an edge over its competitors with 20.2 megapixels and a 1/2.3-inch image sensor that enhances resolution. However, it’s a bit small, which may lead to some comprises of the overall image quality under low lighting conditions. You don’t need to fret about this if you’re fond of outdoor photography as the results are highly detailed with sharp focus and vibrant colors. We missed shooting RAW images as 360 only allows us to shoot JPEG shots.  

Moving on, the autofocus system performs better than average. It’s fast, accurate, and immediately latches onto the subject after spotting it. We recommend you to shoot under ISO3200 as you may notice chromatic noise beyond this point. Moreover, It’s pretty efficient at recording videos in full HD resolution: all you need to do is press the recording button at the back for the camera to start its magic.  

On the other hand, the battery life was a tad bit disappointing as you only receive 200 shots per charge. However, this was a must to maintain the profile of the thin camera. It is Wifi enabled and also offers NFC connectivity for hassle-free photo sharing.  

Bottom line

Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 doesn’t offer photographers any unique features. However, the existing features didn’t fail to mesmerize us. The low starting price coupled with a great 12X optical zoom lens, sleek body, and hardly any shutter lag makes it a great camera to invest in.

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7. Fujifilm FinePix XP130 Waterproof Digital Camera

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Features:

Are you planning your next water skiing trip but want to record your experience? Your smartphone isn’t the best bet despite its water-resistant quality. Fujifilm, a leading camera manufacturer, was aware of this gap in the camera industry and decided to launch Fujifilm FinePix XP130, an excellent compact digital camera.  

Build quality

This camera is an upgraded version of XP120, and for the old users, you won’t notice much of a difference in the design. The lightweight and compact body are small enough to fit into your pocket, but what really amazed us is the level of protection. It can survive through temperatures as low as -10C and water depth to 20m while some photographers have claimed to drop it onto the rock from 1.75m without noticing any damage. The 28-140mm zoom lens offers a maximum aperture of f/3.9-4.9 along with a 3 inch fixed LCD display.  

Performance

The image quality is beyond stunning under natural lighting: they are highly detailed and well saturated to perfectly record your hiking adventure. However, indoor photos may appear to have shadows with some noisy black areas. Considering the price, we accepted the soft images taken through wide-angle, telephoto, and macro shots while some people prefer a bit extra detail in the 16MP fine JPEG images. There are quite a few modes, including HDR, chrome, black and white, and sepia, with several filters such as sketch, high key, pop, and miniature for people with a certain aesthetic sense. The Cinemagraph mode imitates the live view mode of iPhones by taking a 3-second video instead of a shot.  

Furthermore, there is a built-in electronic level for landscape shooting while the motion panorama mode gives a stunning 360-degree shot. You can record basic videos in maximum Full HD 1080p at 60p, which is usually enough for enthusiasts.  

Moving on to connectivity, it offers Bluetooth and is Wifi enabled so you can connect to the Fujifilm Camera Remote app to transfer your images without any hassle and get a remote view of the camera. However, the 700 mAh battery isn’t the best and is only capable of shooting for a few hours. However, you may charge it inside the camera via USB.  

Bottom line

Fujifilm FinePix XP130 is the ideal camera for skiers, snorkelers, or basically, anyone who is fond of recording memories spent near water. The tough and waterproof exterior, coupled with some outstanding features, makes it a must-have for many. Despite not having the ability to record RAW photos and 4K videos, the other features compensate for it.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): About Point and Shoot Cameras

Q: Should I buy a point and shoot or DSLR?

A: This is an ongoing debate considering the increasing fame of DSLRs and the assumption that point-and-shoot cameras are becoming obsolete. Yes, DSLRs are more affordable than ever while their famous yet cheap counterparts offer a variety of innovative features. However, digital cameras don’t lack in any of it either; in fact, they are more travel friendly. We agree that making a decision is hard in the over-saturated market, with each camera boasting about their capabilities, but it’s necessary to understand that DSLRs and digital cameras are each meant for shooting different subjects and scenarios.  

The first advantage of a Point-and-shoot camera is the size. The compact body is pocket friendly and portable, making it ideal for travelers. Secondly, the lightweight further minimizes hassle compared to a DSLRs bulky body, and you don’t need to fret about carrying multiple lenses because her, you don’t need them. Moreover, they offer a massive depth of field that is ideal for photographers who want both the background and foreground to be in focus for a sharp result. However, the sensor is small, which may sacrifice image quality compared to the stunning results of a DSLR. Some people desire a soft and blurry background (bokeh effect) that DSLR offers with several other effects due to the interchangeable lenses. The lack of adaptability and limited control over aperture and shutter speed makes it hard for professional photographers to invest in it.  

Q: How do I choose a point and shoot camera?

A: You may think that buying a point-and-shoot camera is easy since all you really have to do is point the camera at your desired subject and fire off the shutter. However, you need to understand some of the basic features that determine the cameras overall image quality and performance.  

Firstly, take a look at its pixel count and sensor. The latter affects the clarity of your photos more. Therefore, a large image sensor is ideal for low light shooting. If you love zoomed-in images, go for a smaller sensor. Secondly, the type of zoom makes a huge impact on the image result. Photographers tend to ignore digital zoom as it comprises the image quality while a huge optical zoom is every professional’s favorite feature.  

Moreover, choosing between a viewfinder and LCD is also important. The latter is more expensive yet gives a better view, but the modern cameras offer you both features to avoid glare under bright lighting. Image stabilization is also very important: Optical IS compensates for movement by adjusting the lens while the sensor shake adjusts the position of the sensor.  

Q: Is it worth buying a point and shoot camera?

A: Some people find cameras to be a waste to invest in, especially in the modern era with highly advanced smartphone cameras. However, we think that dedicated cameras give photographers a new vigor to follow their passion. Buying a camera isn’t about your skill level or experience, but rather, the power and control offered to snap the perfect image.

Despite the advancements in smartphones, there is hardly any room to put in a large image sensor, which limits the image quality. You may notice the poor quality, grain, and noise after zooming in on your photos. Most modern point-and-shoot cameras have a large sensor to produce crisp and clear pictures.  

Moreover, cellphones are conditioned to work with digital zoom, something that photographers run far away from. Fortunately, digital cameras offer the refined optical zoom that doesn’t resize the scene but actually zooms in on it. This proves great for sports and wildlife shots.  

Furthermore, we all know how durable smartphone cameras are-they simply are not. One drops into a pond, and you’ll notice the obvious decrease in image quality. For people who are fond of outdoor photography, the rugged exterior of digital cameras provides resistance against heat, water, and dust. Moreover, you won’t have to sacrifice your expensive yet weak phone, or it’s battery just to get a perfect shot.  

Some people love the physical feeling of holding a camera with all the physical dials and buttons. Most point-and-shoot cameras allow you to adjust exposure, ISO, flash, and zoom after a single click rather than having to go into a complex menu system.  

Q: Should I get the point and shoot or mirrorless?

A: To be very honest, making a decision regarding cameras is getting harder day by day considering the advancements in every camera type. Be it a digital camera or mirrorless; the modern versions offer superb image quality along with powerful and innovative features. So how can you choose between them?  

DSLRs reflect light from the lens into the viewfinder, but point-and-shoot cameras and mirrorless cameras don’t have a mirror. They both feature a lightweight compact built for minimal hassle while traveling. However, digital cameras are a better replacement of smartphone cameras at an affordable price and easy user interface.

For people who need to switch their lens for multiple effects while shooting should opt for a mirrorless camera. Moreover, they offer a better image quality, just like DSLRs.  

Therefore, we can say that a digital camera is ideal for novices and enthusiasts who just want to record their memories or practice their hands at shooting while a mirrorless camera also caters to professionals.  

Conclusion

We assume that you’ve gone through our list of the best point and shoot camera and the FAQ section to come to a solid decision. We understand that everyone needs to consider their needs and budget before finalizing a product. The 1in, APS-C, and full-frame sensors are ideal for low light shooting with serial other benefits, while prime lenses offer great zoom and image quality. You also need to consider the screen: tilting LCD screens are great for outdoor shooting. Sony DSC-WX350 is perfect for people who want stunning images with tonnes of customization options while we recommend Fujifilm FinePix XP130 to those planning on recording their next water skiing trip.