The compact point-and-shoots of yesterday have long since been
replaced by the smart devices of today. In an ever-changing digital
landscape, evolution is a necessity and the latest compacts are better
than ever. Regardless of your skill level, these digital cameras have
got you covered. With larger sensors, faster processors, and the ability
to shoot RAW, they offer users incredible quality and control without
requiring the leap to DSLR. Here are 11 of the best compacts on the
market for the 2013 holiday season.
The
Canon PowerShot G16
has a built-in 5x optical zoom lens covering a 35mm format equivalent
28-140mm. Its fast, wide maximum f/1.8 (w) - 2.8 (t) aperture enables
effortless low-light shooting, along with the ability to really play
with shallow depth of field. An Intelligent Image Stabilization system
helps minimize camera shake by automatically employing up to 6 different
IS modes, covering nearly any shooting situation. Users also have the
freedom to turn IS off altogether, which is a preferred feature when the
camera is mounted on a tripod; however, the Intelligent IS system can
automatically detect when the camera is mounted on a tripod and will
automatically disengage the IS system, too.
The G16 contains a 1/1.7” high-sensitivity CMOS image sensor with
12.1 effective megapixels. Together with the efficient DIGIC 6
processor, the camera produces beautiful still photos and video in full
HD 1080p. In tandem, these features also form the Canon HS SYSTEM, an
effective aid for reducing noise and enhancing the overall image quality
of low-light photos. Even through the maximum ISO 12800 sensitivity,
images are sharp and notably clear. The DIGIC 6 processor also enforces
speed. A High Speed AF system quickly and accurately focuses on a
subject, making on-the-fly shooting possible. This speed also enables
full-resolution shooting at 12.2 fps for the first 6 images, followed by
9.3 fps for the next 500 shots. Full HD video can be recorded at up to
60 fps. Media playback and review is easy on the G16’s large 3.0”
922K-dot LCD screen, and composing shots is comfortable through the
optical viewfinder. A Dual Axis Electronic Level can be displayed in
either the viewfinder or on the LCD to help orient parallel lines
consistently.
This compact has no internal memory, but readily accepts SD, SDHC,
and SDXC memory cards. Built-in Wi-Fi allows users to take advantage of
the CANON iMAGE GATEWAY and free CameraWindow app to transfer media from
camera to mobile devices. While it does contain a pop-up flash, those
looking for a little more control and power can attach a separately
purchased Canon Speedlite (such as the
270EX II)
via the hot-shoe mount. A number of creative shooting modes, such as
Fisheye Effect, High Dynamic Range, and Fireworks bring both fun and
assistive elements to shooting.
The
Canon PowerShot S120
features a built-in 5x optical zoom lens with a 35mm equivalent
focal-length range of 24-120mm. This covers all applications from
wide-angle through short telephoto. A comfortable maximum aperture of
f/1.8 (w) - 5.7 (t) provides effective speed during low-light shooting,
as well as a soft, shallow depth of field at the wider end. The added
Intelligent IS automatically selects from 6 stabilization modes to
ensure that, regardless of the conditions, camera shake will not
overwhelm the shot.
The S120 brings several considerable improvements over its
predecessor, the S110. A 12.1MP 1/1.7” CMOS sensor and DIGIC 6 image
processor lend a more polished quality to both still shots and video in
full HD 1080p. DIGIC 6 enables a considerably better burst rate, with
continuous shooting possible at 12.1 fps for the first 6 images, and a
sustained rate of 9.4 fps for the next 600+ consecutive shots. Video
recording in full HD 1080p is possible at 60 fps. An optimized HS
SYSTEM, which keeps noise levels low in dimly lit shots, produces
beautifully sharp images up through a maximum ISO sensitivity of 12800.
The S120’s screen resolution trumps that of the S110, doubling in
resolution to a 3.0” 922K-dot touchscreen LCD. Its navigation is
intuitive and simple, providing both bright playback and easy live view
monitoring. Camera controls can also be finely adjusted via a dedicated
control ring on the front of the lens.
Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity allows direct wireless interaction with
the CANON iMAGE GATEWAY and CameraWindow app, transferring media to
smartphones, tablets, or PCs for instant online sharing. There is no
built-in memory, but the S120 accepts standard SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards.
It also comes with a catalog of shooting modes, including Snow,
Nostalgic, Toy Camera, and more.
The
Nikon COOLPIX A, which is available in
black or
silver,
packs many near-DSLR qualities into a compact body. A dedicated
wide-angle lens, equivalent to 28mm in 35mm format, captures images
comparable to those taken with many interchangeable NIKKOR lenses. Its
interior build contains refined optics that promise edge-to-edge
sharpness, accurate color detail, and limited aberrations. A wide
maximum f/2.8 aperture makes low-light shooting easy and gives users the
leeway to play with creative depth of field.
The COOLPIX A has a 16.2MP APS-C DX-Format CMOS sensor that renders
large, crystal-clear images, while the lack of a low-pass filter
maximizes resolution and sharpness. Its EXPEED 2 image processor enables
high-speed performance that reduces the likelihood of noise (with a
maximum light sensitivity of ISO 25600) and overheating. Continuous
shooting is possible in full resolution at up to 4 fps for a maximum of
26 shots, with video in full HD 1080p possible at 30 fps. In addition to
autofocus, this compact also gives you the freedom to focus manually.
The focus ring, along with all other buttons, dials, and switches, are
designed with intuition and comfort in mind. Its 3.0” 921K-dot TFT LCD
screen is easily viewable in any lighting conditions, and features
brightness adjustments for an extra touch of personalization. It can
also display a level on the screen, via the Virtual Horizon function, to
assist capturing still-life, landscape, and architectural photos on a
correct axis.
For the perfectionists, the COOLPIX A offers several methods for
analyzing, editing, and polishing images. A hot shoe gives you the
option of attaching a compatible optical viewfinder (
DF-CP1) or Nikon Speedlight flash unit (such as the
SB-400).
Assistive functions also help ensure that every shot counts. Active
D-lighting preserves the highlight and/or shadow detail that can often
be lost when photographing high-contrast scenes. Picture Control gives 6
customizable settings to choose from, always employing the right
combination of sharpness, hue, contrast, etc. on hand for various
shooting scenarios. An in-camera Retouch Menu fine-tunes and manipulates
photos before they even reach the computer. There is no built-in Wi-Fi,
but a separately purchased, optional
WU-1a Wireless Mobile Adapter
will connect the camera to a smart device. This enables direct upload
to email or social media services, as well as the use of a smartphone or
tablet as a remote shutter release. The COOLPIX A accepts SD, SDHC, and
SDXC memory cards.
The new
Nikon COOLPIX P7800
features a built-in 7.1x optical zoom NIKKOR ED lens that provides a
focal-length range of 28-200mm in 35mm format. Two extra-low dispersion
elements greatly minimize chromatic aberrations, maintaining an overall
clarity for stunning images. Its wide maximum f/2 (w) - 4 (t) aperture
benefits working in low-light conditions, and a 7-blade circular
diaphragm helps to create background bokeh that is soft, natural, and
pleasant. Here, Nikon has incorporated their lens-shift type Vibration
Reduction to minimize the effect of camera shake, as well as an internal
3-stop neutral density filter.
The 12.2MP 1/1.7” CMOS sensor and EXPEED C2 processor work together
to achieve high-resolution still photos and full HD 1080p video. Maximum
ISO is expandable up to 6400 with little instance of noise and grain
interference. The processing speed enables continuous shooting in full
resolution up to 8 fps for 6 consecutive frames, and video in full HD at
both 25 and 30 fps. The P7800 also offers an electronic viewfinder,
unlike the previous P7700 model, for more control over composition and
framing. Its 3.0” 921K-dot LCD monitor is incredibly flexible for
shooting and review, with a vari-angle design that lets it swivel out
180° to the side and tilt 270° forward and backward.
The P7800 has a built-in flash, but also contains a hot-shoe mount
for compatible Nikon Speedlights. It includes a large internal memory or
86MB, and will also accept SD, SDHC, and SDCX cards. There is no
built-in Wi-Fi, but a separately purchased adapter can provide wireless
connectivity if needed. Retouching is possible directly in the camera’s
review gallery, along with a number of additional helpful shooting modes
such as Food, Sports, Sunset, and more.
One of Fujifilm’s newest releases is the
XQ1, which is available in either
black or
silver.
It houses a built-in 4x optical zoom lens, with a 35mm equivalency of
25-100mm and a maximum aperture range of f/1.8-4.9 for all applications,
from wide-angle through short telephoto. Aspherical and extra-low
dispersion glass elements and a HT-EBC coating are included to help
minimize ghosting, flare, and troublesome aberration. The added benefit
of a lens-shift type image stabilizer counters up to three stops of
camera shake for cleaner, sharper photos.
This compact also comes with a 12MP 2/3” X-Trans CMOS II sensor and
EXR Processor II. Together, these technologies enforce quick camera
performance and render beautiful high-quality images and video in full
HD 1080p. Low-light shooters will also notice a considerable reduction
in noise and grain, giving a clearer picture up through its maximum ISO
of 12800. Fujifilm’s unique X-Trans sensor uses a randomized pixel array
pattern that eliminates the need for an optical low-pass filter, which
in turn enables sharper-than-ever photos. An Intelligent Hybrid AF
system employs 3 focus modes that utilize both contrast and
phase-detection technology for fast, responsive autofocus in as little
as .06 seconds. This is an excellent feature for shooting fast-paced
action, which can be captured in full-resolution at 12 fps for up to 9
frames. Movie recording in full HD 1080p is supported up to 60 fps with
full-time autofocus tracking. The use of both image stabilization and
the optical zoom lens are enabled during video capture, giving a more
refined sense of control over the final product. Playback and image
review is bright and clear on the rear 3.0” 920K-dot LCD screen.
Added key features include 66MB of built-in memory, as well as
compatibility with additional standard SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards.
Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity enables instant image sharing to an Android
or iOS mobile device. The Fujifilm Camera App allows users to browse
through images on their camera from their smartphone or tablet, and will
transfer HD videos as well as 30 photos at a time. In homage to
Fujifilm’s iconic history and presence in film-based photography, the
XQ1 incorporates several Film Simulation modes that mimic the look and
feel of the Fuji classics—Provia, Velvia, and Astia. Additional modes
include Panorama, Macro, Multiple Exposure, and a number of whimsical
filters such as Toy Camera, Partial Color, Soft Focus, and more.
The
Fujifilm X20, in
black or
silver,
comes with a 4x optical zoom Fujinon lens that offers an effective
focal-length range of 28-112mm in 35mm equivalency. It integrates a
number of advanced optics, including aspherical, extra-low dispersion,
and high-refractive elements, to reduce aberration and improve overall
image quality. An added 2x digital zoom gives a slight boost in
telephoto range for capturing distant subject matter.
The X20 improves upon its previous iteration, the X10, in a number of
ways. It includes a 12MP 2/3” CMOS sensor that features X-Trans bespoke
pixel array. This renders sharper, more accurate images and video in
full HD 1080p. It maintains a clean signal-to-noise ratio up through an
increased maximum light sensitivity of ISO 12800, which is a
considerable jump from the former maximum of 3200. An EXR Processor II
boosts overall performance for faster response times, including a 20%
increase in burst rate, of 12 fps for up to 11 consecutive frames. Movie
recording in full HD is possible at 60 fps. It’s also seen an overhaul
in autofocus technology, including an Intelligent Hybrid AF system that
employs both contrast and phase-detection methods for quick, responsive
focus in as little as .06 seconds. Like its predecessor, the X20 has a
rear 2.8” 460K-dot LCD screen that provides high-definition playback and
an advanced optical viewfinder with a -3.5 - +1.5m diopter.
This compact has an internal memory of approximately 26MB, and
accepts additional SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. It offers several shooting
modes, such as Portrait, Snow, Macro, and Film Simulation mode, which
mimics Fujifilm’s Provia, Astia, and Velvia traditional-film emulsions.
An assortment of built-in filters can also be used to add a playful
effect. These include Toy Camera, Pop Color, Partial Color, and more.
Buyers also have the option to purchase and use
a wireless flash via the hot-shoe mount.
Leica is renowned for its stylish elegance, and the
Leica C, in stunning
Dark Red or
Light Gold,
is no exception. Despite its compact body, it contains a DC
Vario-Summicron 7x optical zoom lens with a 35mm format equivalency of
28-200mm. At the wide end, which is perfect for landscapes or
architecture, its maximum aperture is a fast f/2. Its telephoto end,
great for tightly framed portraiture and beyond, reaches f/5.9 at its
brightest opening. Optical image stabilization ensures that when
shooting in low lighting or longer ends of the zoom range, camera shake
is not an issue. An additional 4x digital zoom is possible for a little
extra reach.
The Leica C has a 12.1MP 1/1.7” MOS sensor that provides crisp photo
quality, as well as video in full HD 1080p, with brilliant color and
contrast. Its fast autofocus system allows a continuous shooting speed
of up to 10 fps, expertly capturing action and any other type of
on-the-fly images. A programmable focus ring on the lens allows you to
fine-tune adjustments while keeping your eye on the subject matter,
which is clearly visible through its 200k-dot electronic viewfinder.
This viewfinder, which also has a +/-4 diopter adjustment, is ideal for
brightly lit settings and when composing eye-level photography. Image
and movie playback is bright and clear on the 3.0” 921K-dot TFT LCD
screen.
In addition to its compatibility with SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory
cards, the C also has 87MB of built-in memory. It’s also the first Leica
camera to feature an integrated Wi-Fi/NFC module for instant
connectivity to Android or iOS devices. Paired with the free Leica C
Image Shuttle app, a WLAN link can be set up and utilized to remotely
control camera settings from a smartphone or tablet.
Olympus’s
STYLUS XZ-2 iHS
is equipped with a 27-108mm (35mm equivalent) 4x optical zoom lens that
rivals the M.ZUIKO DIGITAL line of interchangeable-lens bodies. Its
maximum aperture is incredibly wide at both the wide and telephoto end
of the zoom range, covering f/1.8-2.5. This greatly enhances low-light
shooting with a speed that’s hard to beat and yields stunning background
blur in shallow depth of field. A dual IS system combines a high ISO
6400 sensitivity (extendable up to 12800) and sensor-shift stabilization
that maintains image clarity in poor lighting and longer focal lengths.
The XZ-2 trumps the XZ-1 with a number of advancements, including an
overall jump in image quality. It contains a 12MP 1/1.7” CMOS sensor
with back side illumination, and a TruePic VI processor. Processing
speed allows continuous photography at up to 5 fps for 200 consecutive
frames, and video in full HD 1080p. The XZ-2’s 3.0” 920K-dot touchscreen
LCD sees a notable 50% increase in resolution from the XZ-1, and
includes a swiveling mechanism to physically flip out and away from the
camera. This helps capture imagery from nearly any angle, and improves
viewing comfort in nearly any scenario. Touch capacity gives an
intuitive flow to selecting camera controls, while a hybrid control ring
around the lens lets users assign function settings easily to their
preferences.
The XZ-2 has 39MB of internal memory storage, and accepts SD, SDHC,
and SDXC cards. While there is no built-in Wi-Fi, it does also accept
Eye-Fi
and Flash Air media cards for instant sharing to a smart device. In
addition, it can be synched with a PENPAL Bluetooth unit. Several
assistive functions ensure the perfect shot every time, and include
in-camera editing, shooting modes (Sport, Beach & Snow, HDR, etc.),
and an easy-to-use Live Guide. Live Guide shows the result of a
photographic effect right on the LCD screen before the image is even
captured. It also offers a catalog of tips and tricks for how to
effectively shoot pets, flowers, kids, and more. There is a pop-up flash
unit, but a hot shoe is provided as well as wireless control for
optional external flashes.
The sleek
Ricoh GR
has a fixed 18.3mm f/2.8 lens, which is equivalent to 28mm in 35mm
format. This wide-angle-lens-packing body contains 2 aspherical elements
to minimize chromatic aberration, providing sharpness throughout the
image frame with little distortion. Photographers will have the capacity
to truly play with depth of field creatively at a shallow f/2.8, and a
9-bladed aperture renders gorgeous background bokeh. In addition to
still photos, the GR also shoots video in full HD 1080p.
It contains an impressive 16.2MP APS-C CMOS image sensor that enables
sharp, high-resolution image quality up through its broad 100-25600 ISO
range. This sensor is designed without an optical low-pass filter, to
yield truly sharp details. Its advanced GR Engine V processor further
minimizes noise and enables fast response times including up to 4 fps of
continuous shooting. During video capture, multiple resolutions and
frames per second are enabled (including 60 fps in 720HD). Autofocusing
is fast at a mere 0.2 seconds, and a designated AF button is easily
accessible with the thumb on the back panel. Image and movie review on
the 3.0” 1230K-dot LCD screen is bright, clear, and sharp. When
composing a shot, a dual-axis electronic level can appear on the LCD
screen for accurate alignment of horizontal or vertical framing.
The GR contains 54MB of built-in memory, and can use additional SD,
SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. While it has no built-in Wi-Fi, it is
compatible with
Eye-Fi
memory cards. These will enable automatic transmission of data to
smartphones and tablets. It does contain a built-in pop-up flash, but
also provides a TTL-A hot-shoe mount for a separate
Ricoh GF-1 External Flash. Apart from a flash,
optional optical viewfinders
can be purchased separately and attached to the hot-shoe mount.
Creative minds will enjoy a number of special image effects (such as
Bleach-Bypass, Cross-Process, Miniature, and more) as well as shooting
modes, including Macro, Face Detection, and 35mm Crop. The GR also
incorporates a built-in, 2-stop neutral density filter that can be
controlled manually or automatically.
Sony’s new dust- and moisture-resistant
Cyber-shot RX10
brings durable, high-quality imaging to the compact-camera realm. Its
built-in Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens has an 8.3x optical zoom that
equates to a 35mm equivalent focal-length range of 24-200mm. This range
covers wide angle through telephoto, truly opening up the possibilities
for any shooting situation. Its maximum aperture is a constant f/2.8,
making low-light scenarios easier to tackle. Optical design includes 7
aspherical elements and anti-reflective coatings to reduce aberrations,
flare, and ghosting in both still photos and video in full HD 1080i/p.
Image Stabilization minimizes the effects of both horizontal and
vertical movements, and an Active 3-Way stabilizing system offsets both
clockwise and counter-clockwise movements during video recording.
The RX10 houses a large 20.2MP 1” Exmor R CMOS sensor with back side
illuminated technology. This enables low-light shooting up to ISO 12800
without being inundated by grain or noise interference. It also contains
a brand-new BIONZ X processor that boosts not only image quality, but
performance. Continuous shooting is possible at up to 10 fps, with video
supported in both 60i/p and 24p frame rates. The RX10 contains a Direct
Drive Super Sonic Wave Motor that smoothly, silently, and quickly homes
in on a precise focal point. In addition, a lock-on focus mode tracks
moving targets, while an Eye AF function precisely targets a subject’s
eyes. The XGA OLED electronic viewfinder ensures that users can always
see clearly and brightly when composing a shot, regardless of
conditions. The control ring on the lens is ideal for those who want to
keep their eye to the viewfinder while changing camera settings. The
rear LCD, which is a large 3.0” 1228K-dot screen, features a tilting
mechanism that enables the monitor to physically move up or down. With
this feature on hand, shooting from high or low angles becomes much
easier, as does reviewing playback in any conditions.
Additional technologies include Detail Reproduction, which minimizes
digital artifacts when pictures are reproduced, and Diffraction
Reduction, which maintains clarity by applying aperture-appropriate
filter processing. Multiple shooting modes, which range from productive
to purely for fun, include settings such as Anti-Motion Blur, Night
Scene, Toy Camera, and Retro. The RX10 also includes built-in Wi-Fi and
DFC for instant wireless communication with mobile devices via Sony’s
PlayMemories app. While it has no built-in memory, it is compatible with
a broad range of storage media; SD, SDHC, SDXC, microSD, microSDHC,
microSDXC, and Sony Memory Sticks. A multi-interface hot-shoe mount will
connect flashes, microphones, lights, and other accessories.
The compact Sony
Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 II
features a built-in Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* 3.6x optical zoom lens
ranging from 28-100mm in 35mm format equivalency. An additional 2x Clear
Image digital zoom can be used to intelligently magnify scenery even
further for a little extra reach. At the wide end, its bright maximum
f/1.8 aperture enables incredible low-light photography. At the longer
end of the zoom range, maximum aperture is f/4.9. Anti-reflective
coatings on the glass minimize ghosting and flare.
Its large 20.2MP 1” Exmor R CMOS sensor features back side
illuminated technology, and a BIONZ image processor enables excellent
speed and performance. Precise high-speed autofocus works as fast as
0.13 seconds, and continuous shooting is possible, up to 10 fps. When
shooting video, multiple frame rates are supported, including 60p, 60i,
and 24p. With the benefit of Optical SteadyShot IS, compensation is
offered for both vertical and horizontal camera shake. Even through the
maximum light sensitivity of ISO 12800, image quality is clear and
detailed. Active 3-Way stabilization adds rolling control to balance
clockwise and counter-clockwise movement during movie-making. The RX100
II has a large 3.0” 1229K-dot Xtra Fine LCD monitor that tilts, unlike
the monitor on the previous RX100 model. This screen can be shifted up
or down to promote easier use in playback review or at odd,
uncomfortable shooting angles. WhiteMagic technology enhances brightness
and clarity.
The RX100 II features several assistive functions for practical and
creative use. Auto Object Framing will automatically analyze scenery and
decide the best possible composition, and Auto HDR records several
bracketed photos at once to be blended into one high-dynamic range shot.
Face Detection will identify up to 8 faces in a shot and determine the
correct camera settings for the photo. Additionally, aspect ratios,
creative filters, and picture effects can be applied for a dynamic final
image. This compact includes built-in Wi-Fi for instant connectivity
and sharing, and accepts SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards along with Sony
Memory Stick Pro Duo and Pro HG-Duo. A multi-interface shoe on top of
the camera will accept separately purchased flashes, microphones, and
other accessories.
In a similar light, the Nikon 
viewfinder. Instead, they operate similarly to a point-and-shoot, with
light falling directly onto the image sensor. This allows shots to be
“previewed” on the camera’s LCD screen before each click. Eliminating
the bulky mirror and shutter components makes their bodies much smaller
and lighter than their DSLR contemporaries. With mirrorless systems,
photo enthusiasts and professionals are given the freedom to shoot RAW
and capture high-resolution images without toting bags of heavy gear.
