Photography is a very common art in today’s world. Everyone wants to get the best pictures for their social media, blogs, websites, family, and friends. And since smartphones cameras keep getting better every year, most people underrate the power a digital camera can provide. You may have heard that the best cameras cost a fortune. However, we’re here to let you know that this isn’t entirely true.
While cameras usually get better and more enhanced the higher their prices, there are budget point-and-shoot cameras with the ability to provide you with great image quality, nice zooming capabilities, and more. We’ve outlined the best digital cameras under $300 below. In addition to that, we’ve added a buying guide to help you get nothing but the best cameras available. Without further ado, let’s get down to it.
- The 10 Best Digital Cameras under $300
- Nikon COOLPIX B500 Digital Camera
- Panasonic Lumix ZS60k Digital Camera
- Canon PowerShot ELPH 180 Digital Camera
- Fujifilm FinePix XP130 Waterproof Digital Camera
- Canon PowerShot SX530 Digital Camera
- Nikon COOLPIX W100 Digital Camera
- Canon PowerShot SX720 HS Digital Camera
- GoPro HERO 7 Silver Digital Action Camera
- Canon PowerShot SX620 Digital Camera
- Kodak PIXPRO Astro Zoom Digital Camera
- Digital Cameras Under 300 Dollars Buyer’s Guide
- What Is The Best Camera Under 300 Dollars?
- What Is A Good Inexpensive Digital Camera?
- Sensor Size
The 10 Best Digital Cameras under $300
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Nikon COOLPIX B500 Digital Camera
Many photographers love the Nikon B500 for so many reasons. It is one of the best cameras you can get for less than $300. The Nikon COOLPIX B500 is a 16-megapixel camera with a 40x optical zoom and 80x dynamic zoom. This means that you can zoom from 25mm to 900mm in steps of 35mm. It also features VR optical image stabilization which helps to keep your photos sharp when using optical zoom or shooting in the dark.
The Nikon COOLPIX B500 is capable of shooting FullHD 1080P videos at 30fps. It comes with built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC technology, which allows you the ability to share images and videos to your mobile devices as well as social media. The battery life is pretty decent and you get a host of accessories straight out of the box. You even get a 32GB SDHC memory card straight out of the box. While the Nikon COOLPIX B500 doesn’t feature any manual setting, you can still manipulate some of its controls such as white balance and ISO.
| Megapixels | 16MP |
| Zoom | 40x optical zoom and 80x dynamic zoom |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC |
| Video Resolution | 1080P |
Pros
- Great value for money
- Full HD videos with stereo sounds
- 4 AA batteries and memory card included
- Great for beginners and pros
Cons
Panasonic Lumix ZS60k Digital Camera
The Panasonic Lumix ZS60K is another great option in the world of cameras under 300 dollars. In fact, it’s one of the best point and shoot cameras in the $300 price range. Built with an 18 megapixel CMOS sensor, this camera is capable of providing 30x zoom. This makes it a great option for anyone looking to take travel and everyday photos. Thanks to its 18MP sensor, you’ll be able to get high-resolution pictures with low noise. The ZS60K also features a touch-enabled LCD screen and an eye-level electronic viewfinder, which makes it easy for users to capture wide angle images.
Another reason why this camera is one of the best is because of its lens mounted control ring. With this feature, you’ll be able to utilize an exposure control that’s similar to what you’d find on a typical DSLR. You’ll be able to control features such as shutter speed, focus, and zoom with more ease and precision. Unlike the Nikon COOLPIX B500 that only allows 1080P video recording, the ZS60K is capable of taking 4K videos at a 3840 x 2160P resolution.
| Megapixels | 18MP |
| Zoom | 30x |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi |
| Video Resolution | 4K |
Pros
- 5-axis optical image stabilization
- 4K photos and videos
- Post focus feature helps you focus after taking a photo
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
Canon PowerShot ELPH 180 Digital Camera
Looking for a simple, compact, and cheap camera? The Canon PowerShot ELPH is one option you are bound to love. Endowed with a 20-megapixel sensor, the ELPH helps you take rich and clear images that are wallpaper and screensaver worthy. Now, while it may not have the 40x optical zoom of the B500 above or the 4K video capability of the ZS60K it sure comes with some unique features that make it worthy of being on this list.
First off, this camera is quite inexpensive. You can get it for less than 100 dollars. It features 8X optical zoom and its OIS capability helps you capture images with more ease and flexibility. While the image quality may not be the best, you still get an optimum output thanks to its 20MP sensor and DIGIC 4 image processor. There are many scene shooting modes to choose from and its smart auto settings help users select the best functionality to get premium captures.
| Megapixels | 20MP |
| Zoom | 8x |
| Connectivity | USB |
| Video Resolution | 720P |
Pros
- Compact size
- Good image quality
- Digital image stabilization helps reduce camera shake effect
- Multiple scene modes to choose from
Cons
Fujifilm FinePix XP130 Waterproof Digital Camera
The Fujifilm FinePix XP130 camera is one that has made waves in the compact camera market. Many people love it due to the fact that it’s a cheap, compact, and waterproof camera. However, there’s more to love about this image snapper. Designed with a 16MP CMOS sensor, this Fujifilm Finepix waterproof camera is perfect for any traveler looking for a cheap camera. Besides it being a waterproof camera, it is also shockproof, dustproof, and freezeproof. Just like the Canon ELPH above, it’s also in the $100 price range. However, it comes with Bluetooth connectivity, which is a feature the ELPH doesn’t have.
Since it’s more of a travel camera, the Fujifilm Finepix also has a geotagging functionality that allows you to download location data from your mobile device to your camera. The 3-inch LCD screen and electronic viewfinder help you capture the best images. This camera also comes with a Burst Mode, which allows you to take rapid photos of moving objects. The Fujifilm Finepix XP130 camera can shoot 1080P videos at 60fps and it can even freeze the action up to 320 fps, thereby allowing you to see fast action movies in detail.
| Megapixels | 16MP |
| Zoom | 5x |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth |
| Video Resolution | 1080P |
Pros
- Remote camera functionality
- 11 advanced filters to choose from
- Advanced color reproduction provides more detail when underwater
- Geo-tagging and auto time adjustment capability
Cons
Canon PowerShot SX530 Digital Camera
Want to take pictures like a pro but don’t want to spend too much? The Canon PowerShot SX530 camera is one of the best options you can choose. It’s a pretty famous camera loved by many top photographers around the world. Unlike the Fujifilm Finepix camera above that features only Bluetooth technology, the SX530 comes with built-in Wi-Fi and NFC technologies. These two allow you to send images to and from devices supporting the Camera Connect App2. You can even use the built-in Wi-Fi to send pictures to various web services.
The Canon PowerShot SX530 is designed with a 16MP CMOS sensor, and it is capable of a 50x optical zoom range. This means that you can capture far objects without losing out on image quality. It also doesn’t feature manual settings, but its dedicated and intelligent image stabilization helps minimize camera shake effect. This camera utilizes different image stabilization functionalities for different image modes. It’s also compatible with Canon’s photo and video service, the Connect Station CS100.
| Megapixels | 16MP |
| Zoom | 50x |
| Connectivity | NFC and Wi-Fi |
| Video Resolution | 1080P |
Pros
- Creative shot mode helps create stunning images
- High-speed autofocus
- Ergonomic design
- Great battery life
Cons
Nikon COOLPIX W100 Digital Camera
The Nikon COOLPIX W100 is a beautiful piece of technology you’re bound to love at first sight. It’s an impressive device that’s worth the price. Sitting in the $100 price range, the W100 is available in two colors; blue and white. Just like the Fujifilm Finepix camera, this camera is also one of the best travel cameras under $300. It is waterproof, shockproof, dustproof, and freezeproof. Using Nikon’s SnapBridge app, you can easily send your photos to any connected mobile devices. It uses built-in WI-Fi and Bluetooth technology as its source of connectivity.
The Nikon COOLPIX W100 features a 13.2 MP CMOS sensor that allows users to take high-quality images. With its 3x optical zoom and 6x Dynamic Fine zoom, you’ll be able to achieve the results you want when you reach out to capture faraway images. Thanks to its Target Finding auto-focus, this camera can easily find your subject within the capture frame. Its 2.7-inch LCD screen makes taking pictures easier and its built-in flash ensures that you’re able to capture great images in low-light situations.
| Megapixels | 13.2MP |
| Zoom | 3X optical zoom, 6x dynamic zoom |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth and Wifi |
| Video Resolution | 1080P |
Pros
- Beautiful and elegant design
- Tough and rugged camera
- Easy to operate
- Geolocation tagging and image transfer
Cons
Canon PowerShot SX720 HS Digital Camera
The Canon PowerShot SX720 HS Camera is a slim powerhouse that’s effective when it comes to creating immensely detailed photos. It’s a product that’s appreciated by even professional photographers. But what are the features that makes this camera under $300 as popular as it is? First off, it features a 20.3MP CMOS sensor that works hand-in-hand with a DIGIC 6 image processor to deliver stunning images even in low light. This camera offers up to 40x zoom and supports HD video recording.
It also comes with a 920k dot tilting LCD screen and offers both NFC and WiFi connectivity. These can be used to share or send images to and from your PC, smartphone, and other smart devices. There’s also Bluetooth technology embedded into the camera. While you can use this to send content from and to your devices, it also serves as a way to use your smartphone as a remote control for your camera. The SX720 HS camera, however, does not take RAW photos. But the JPEGS are smooth and well detailed, and you also get three different autofocus options to choose from.
| Megapixels | 20.3MP |
| Zoom | 40x |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC |
| Video Resolution | 1080P |
Pros
- Intelligent image stabilization helps detect the best mode for shooting videos and images
- DIGIC 6 image processor for a faster and more detailed performance
- Creative mode helps you create images like a pro
- Remote shooting with camera connect app
Cons
GoPro HERO 7 Silver Digital Action Camera
The GoPro HERO 7 is a digital action camera that has made a lot of waves in the photography world. It’s a cheap camera that’s under $300 and still manages to be waterproof while packing 4K capabilities. It is designed for the traveler who likes to pack lightly. This camera is compact, lightweight, rugged, and waterproof. An intuitive touchscreen helps you utilize and adjust the different modes embedded into the camera. It also features voice control for easy shooting and image capture.
The GoPro HERO 7 may be the camera with the lowest camera sensor in our review, but it still captures stunning images and photos. Its 10MP sensor is capable of taking challenging photos by mixing shadows and bright light. This camera also features burst mode, otherwise known as continuous shooting mode. This means that you can take up to 15 photos in one second. And since it has the capability to shoot portrait videos and pictures, it’s one of the best cameras for both Instagram and Snapchat. This makes it one of the best under $300 cameras for travel and food bloggers.
| Megapixels | 10MP |
| Zoom | Touch Zoom |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi |
| Video Resolution | 4K |
Pros
- Continuous shooting mode allows you take pictures in quick successions
- Video stabilization feature helps eliminate shaky videos
- Slow-motion mode
- Great audio quality
Cons
Canon PowerShot SX620 Digital Camera
If you want a powerful camera that’s one of the best picture takers around and still below $300, then the Canon PowerShot SX620 camera is one great option to consider. Featuring a 25x optical zoom lens and intelligent image stabilization, this camera is capable of producing virtually shake-free images. This compact camera is versatile, small, and easy to use. It’s one of the best snappers for everyday pictures as well as social media and travel pictures. The 3-inch LCD screen is bright and easy to see, thereby ensuring that you’re always able to frame your videos and photos easily.
The SX620 has got built-in Wi-Fi and NFC technologies, which helps in sharing content between supported devices as well as social media services. Thanks to its 20.2MP, 1/2.3-inch CMOS image sensor, this camera provides users with superb image and video quality. The DIGIC 4 image processor embedded into the camera allows for fast auto-focus, which makes for crisp and sharp images. While it also features a 4x digital zoom lens, the 25x optical zoom takes more priority as the digital zoom feature is bound to make your footage and pictures grainy.
| Megapixels | 20.2MP |
| Zoom | 25x |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi and NFC |
| Video Resolution | 1080P |
Pros
- In-camera stabilization
- Very powerful zoom range
- Compact and lightweight
- Great picture quality for online sharing and small prints
Cons
Kodak PIXPRO Astro Zoom Digital Camera
Kodak is, no doubt, one of the top players in the camera and photography industry. So, it’s no wonder that the Kodak PIXPRO Astro Zoom is one of the best under $300 cameras around. This camera comes with a lot of features that make it worthy of being on this list. Sitting in the $100 price range, this camera features an incredible 42x zoom capability. Its 16 megapixel CCD image sensor gives you enough room to zoom, enlarge, and crop your images without losing out on picture quality or clarity.
The Kodak PIXPRO Astro Zoom also features a beauty mode straight out of the box. This means that the camera can help reduce facial flaws and also enhance the eyes and skin tones of the subject being captured. Add that to the Blink and Smile detector and you’ll be able to capture the perfect moment with ease. This camera is lightweight and also features a face, cat, and dog mode that allows it to detect the best mode for each personality.
| Megapixels | 16MP |
| Zoom | 42x |
| Connectivity | WIFi |
| Video Resolution | 720P |
Pros
- Impressive panorama capture
- Uses reusable and rechargeable Li-Ion batteries
- 24mm wide angle
- Smooth optical image stabilization
Cons
Digital Cameras Under 300 Dollars Buyer’s Guide
Getting the best camera below $300 might seem like a tough task, but it’s a lot easier than you think. Our review above outlines ten of the best digital cameras on the market and some of them are even below the $200 price tag. You can go through the reviews and choose the one that best matches your style and preference.
However, if you don’t seem to like any of the products in our review, but would still like to get the best budget-friendly camera, we’ve written a guide below to help you determine what make a camera one of the best. Read through it and you’ll be able to make a better buying decision when searching for your camera choice.
What Is The Best Camera Under 300 Dollars?
There are a lot of options to choose from when considering the best cameras below $300. However, each camera has its own pros and cons, and it’s imperative that you consider each before deciding on the best one for you. While some may have the best zooming capabilities, other models may be able to locate focal points faster. Some feature live stream capabilities, while some offer short burst capabilities. It all depends on what your preference is and how you’d like to utilize your camera. However, here are some camera recommendations from our review that we think may be great for you:
- Canon PowerShot SX720 HS
- Nikon COOLPIX B500
- Panasonic LUMIX ZS60K
- GoPro Hero 7 Silver
What Is A Good Inexpensive Digital Camera?
Inexpensive doesn’t mean it should be bad. You can get a very great camera for a very cheap price as long as you know what to look out for. Below are some of the factors to consider when you’re on the market for a good inexpensive camera:
Sensor Size
The size of your camera’s sensor typically determines the kind of image quality you’ll get from it. Generally, the bigger the sensor, the more details and light will be able to travel through the lens, thereby resulting in better image quality. For cameras in the $300 price point, the sensor size won’t be as big as what you’d find on DSLRs. However, they are big enough for shooting social media-worthy footage and photos. If you plan on using them for professional reasons, you may not get the kind of quality you desire. So, the bottom line is, the bigger the sensor size, the better the image quality.
Zoom
Some people believe that cameras below three hundred dollars do not have the best zooming capabilities. This is quite untrue. Digital cameras at this price point usually come with great zoom capabilities. You can get models that offer up to 24-1200mm zoom. In fact, there are some models with super-zoom capabilities. However, it’s important to note that the zooming lens of a camera usually has an overall effect on its weight and size. This is because the higher the zoom, the bigger the lens. Another caveat concerning the zoom of inexpensive cameras is that the higher you zoom, the lesser the image resolution. Therefore, it is imperative that you find the perfect balance between zoom, sensor size, and image resolution.
Weight and Size
Cameras at this price point are either portable or come in a size that’s a little heavy for your pocket. In fact, there are models that you may need to carry around in a backpack and use a neck strap for when shooting. For instance, a camera with super zoom is bound to be large and heavy, which means it won’t fit into your pockets and may cause strain on your hands when you’re using it to take shots and footage. Therefore, it’s important that you consider the weight and size you’d like your camera to have before buying one.
Batteries
Inexpensive cameras usually come with different types of batteries. There are mainly three types of batteries found on inexpensive cameras, including alkaline, Lithium, and rechargeable batteries. Alkalines have the shortest lifespan among all three types. Lithium tends to last longer than all battery types and they are also built to withstand cold weather.
Rechargeable batteries come in two main types; lithium-ion (Li-Ion) and nickel-metal hydride (NiMH). NiMH is more powerful than Li-Ion batteries. They are also more Eco-friendly and posses a lot of advantages over other battery types. That doesn’t mean that Li-ion batteries aren’t good. A good Li-ion battery will help you take hundreds of shots before running out of power.
Weather Protection
This is for most travelers who are looking to get a cheap camera. You need to consider how well your camera would do in extreme weather conditions. Cameras that are classified as rugged are usually the best picks for people in this category. They are usually dust-proof, freeze-proof, waterproof, and shockproof. This means that even if you travel to a rainy area or the north pole, you’ll still be able to use your camera nonetheless. However, while they may be dedicated to withstanding the worst weather conditions, many of them don’t come with high-end features. So, you may want to make your considerations more carefully.
Conclusion
You don’t have to sort through thousands of online reviews just to get the best, most inexpensive cameras. Our review will help you choose the perfect one for you. Whether you want to bring faraway objects closer to you, take high quality pictures for your website and social media, or share family and vacation moments with your loved ones, the cameras in our review are dedicated to providing with nothing short of stunning image quality, brightness, and clarity. If, on the other hand, you find the products not to match your preference, you can read through our guide so as to be able to make a better buying decision.
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