electronics
The Best Travel Cameras of 2021
Aug 7th, 2021
The best compact travel cameras of 2021
You go on vacation and shoot a million pictures with your smartphone in the hope that at least one of them will be good enough as a profile picture. Haven't we all been there?
Most smartphones are not very good for long distance photography, and it is a bit too cumbersome to lug around a large and heavy D-SLR . I mean, in the age of minimalism, everyone tries to travel easily and keep things flexible.
That's why we've made this list of the best cameras that can give you a focal length like a D-SLR but without its weight. A truly effective compact camera can prove to be a pure blessing!This is what makes "travel cameras" so popular as a category. They are compact cameras, barely larger than a point-and-shoot model but equipped with huge 20x or 30x zoom lenses. They are easy to carry, but give much more leeway to photograph different kinds of subjects.
You do not get the same image quality as with a DSLR or a mirrorless camera , because the only way to make cameras with a large zoom small enough to have in your pocket is by using a smaller sensor. But the picture quality is still pretty good and perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Best travel cameras in a nutshell:
1. Panasonic Lumix ZS200 / TZ200
2. Fujifilm X-S10
3. Sony Cybershot RX100 VII
4. Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
5. Canon EOS M50 Mark II
6. Canon G5X Mark II
7. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
8. Fujifilm X100V
9. Panasonic GX9
10. Sony ZV-1
1. Panasonic Lumix ZS200 / TZ200
After compact cameras such as the Sony Cyber-shot RX100 V stole the limelight from the compact travel zoom cameras, Panasonic has chosen to keep the size of the housing in the previous cameras in the TZ series, and instead equipped them with a much larger sensor. WE saw the same thing happen with the Lumix TZ100 and Panasonic continues on the same track with the TZ200.The larger sensor provides a much better image quality, but the downside is that the lens does not have as much zoom range as the others. That said, the TZ200 is still equipped with 15x zoom, and you get a handy built-in electronic viewfinder. You can record video in 4K and with Panasonic's 4K photo mode you can capture 8MP images from fleeting moments. This is the best travel camera on the market, even though it is located at the expensive end.
SPECIFICATIONS
- • Sensor: 1-inch type, 20.1MP
- • Lens: 24-360mm, f / 3.3-6.4
- • Monitor: 3.0-inch touchscreen, 1,240K dots
- • Viewfinder: EVF
- • Continuous shooting: 10fps
- • Video: 4K
- • User level: Beginner / semi-prof
2. Fujifilm X-S10
Sometimes a mirrorless camera hits it really hard in terms of size, price and features for most users - and this is the case with the Fujifilm X-S10. It's not a beginner camera and is not as small as a premium compact, but you get a lot for your money. If you also combine the X-S10 with the right lens, it's an excellent, versatile travel camera to suit most types of travel.Although the X-S10 is not officially weatherproof, the magnesium alloy is excellent and will definitely be able to handle a trip in the backpack. Thanks to the grip, the handling is also excellent, whether you carry it with one hand or attach a longer zoom lens to the camera.Most importantly, the X-S10's APS-C sensor delivers the best image quality available in this camera size - and it also delivers great for 4K videos. Autofocus is complemented by real-time tracking AF and remains very solid in most situations. And the secret weapon is in-body image stabilization (IBIS), which is a huge bonus for handheld photography - especially when paired with the small, non-stabilized kit lens. The X-S10 is the mirrorless camera we'd rather have in our suitcase.
SPECIFICATIONS
- • Sensor: APS-C
- • Resolution: 26.1 MP
- • Screen: 3.0-inch touchscreen, 1,040K dots
- • Seeking: 2.36 million points
- • Autofocus: 425-point hybrid AF
- • Continuous shooting: 8 fps (mechanical), 20 fps (electronic)
- • Video: 4K 30fps
- • User level: Beginner / intermediate level
3. Sony Cybershot RX100 VII
In some respects, this is the best compact right now. Its autofocus system is far ahead of what others are doing right now: it tracks moving subjects with excellent precision and even switches between face and eye detection when needed. The control over video recording is just as excellent as the quality of the film itself, while the photo quality is also fantastic. But all of this comes at a price, and for many of us, it's a little too much. Although it is expensive, the camera should be on our current top list, but we can not help but highlight this camera as one of the best travel partners. So if you have a little extra money lying around, we highly recommend the RX 100 VII.
SPECIFICATIONS
- • Sensor: 1-inch type, 20.1MP
- • Lens: 24-200 mm f / 2.8-4.5
- • Screen: 3.0-inch tilt-angle touchscreen, 921K dots
- • Looking for: EVF
- • Continuous shooting: 20fps
- • Video: 4K
- • User level: Intermediate level / expert
4. Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
No camera can give you everything, but a few come close - and the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is in that class. Its polycarbonate housing may feel like a downgrade compared to its predecessor, but the mirrorless camera is right in the hand. Mark III is easier to use than ever and combines its sleek looks with a powerful processor, great image stabilization and shooting features to suit all skill levels and styles. One should not underestimate the fact that its Four Thirds sensor is lagging behind in true image quality and has to struggle to match larger formats for dynamic range, depth of field and low light performance. But the combination of speed, style and sheer versatility makes it a winner. Add autofocus with phase detection and 4K video to the mix,
SPECIFICATIONS
- • Sensor: Micro Four Thirds
- • Camera type: Mirrorless
- • Resolution: 20.4 MP
- • Screen: 3.0-inch tilt-set touchscreen, 1,040K dots
- • Looking for: OLED EVF
- • Continuous shooting: 30fps
- • Video: 4K
- • User level: Intermediate level
5. Canon EOS M50 Mark II
On paper, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II is a functional APS-C camera with plenty to offer to traveling content creators. Its 24.1MP sensor is capable of producing stunning still images with good dynamic range, decent noise control and a burst speed of 10 fps. The strange reality, though, is that the original M50 also offered these things: The new thing in the Mark II is not hardware, but software. That means the camera still suffers from the same heavy 1.5x crop on 4K video and a slow autofocus system.But there are also benefits. It has eye-recorded autofocus for both still images and video as well as the ability to record vertical videos - ideal for potential influencers. In addition, there is a video recording button available on the touch screen, a self-timer for movies and the ability for YouTubers to stream wirelessly - provided they have more than 1,000 subscribers. So it's far from a total upgrade, and existing M50 owners should stick to what they have. But for new users, the M50 Mark II is a versatile entry level for recording travel and video postings.
SPECIFICATIONS
- • Sensor: 24.1MP APS-C CMOS
- • Screen: 3.0-inch variable touch screen, 1.04m dots
- • Viewfinder: EVF, 2.36m dots
- • Continuous shooting: 10fps
- • Video: 4K / 25p
- • User level: Beginner
6. Canon G5X Mark II
What the G5X Mark II does not have in zoom, it compensates for in other areas. With a wide maximum aperture, this is a camera suitable for a wide range of lighting conditions. In addition, it is still quite flexible to have up to 120 mm (in 35 mm terms) available. In addition, there is a high-performance 1-inch sensor, amazing 4K videos and a pop-up EVF that fits well with the LCD screen. There are undoubtedly more advanced cameras on the market, but not many combine a good range of features in a competitive package in the same way.
SPECIFICATIONS
- • Sensor: 1-inch, 20.1 MP
- • Type: Compact
- • Lens: 24-120 mm, f / 1.8-2.8
- • Screen: 3.0-inch, 1,040K dots
- • Looking for: EVF
- • Continuous shooting: 20fps
- • Video: 4K
- • User level: Beginner / semi-pro
7. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
With its small, compact and lightweight body, the OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a great option for both travelers and beginners in photography. As it is in its fourth iteration, the E-M10 has been carefully refined over the years, making it one of the best options for travel and everyday photography.The power of the E-M10 Mark IV is in its simplicity, which also means that you have to compromise on some advanced specifications - such as 4K / 60p and microphone / headphone inputs, which are missing in this camera. But if you are a person who primarily deals with stills, then you get a great deal here, by not paying for something that you do not need.In addition to offering a small body size, the Micro Four Thirds lenses that are compatible with the E-M10 Mark IV are also practical and compact, so you can pack a few different ones for your travels without taking up too much space in your luggage.Other useful specifications include the tilting 3.0-inch touch screen, image stabilization to keep your images stable, and a handy 2.36 m-dot OLED viewfinder.
SPECIFICATIONS
- • Sensor: Four Thirds, 20.3MP
- • Screen: 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen, 1,037,000 dots
- • Viewfinder: 2.36M-dot OLED EVF
- • Continuous shooting: 15fps
- • Video: 4K / 30p
- • User level: Beginner
8. Fujifilm X100V
The Fujifilm X100V is an upgrade that does what was already a special camera series, and solves all its weaknesses - it's the perfect compact for the smartphone age.The concept is the same as before in the X100 series: A stylish, pocket-friendly design, large APS-C sensor, unique hybrid viewfinder and a fixed 23 mm f / 2 lens. But all of these areas have now been improved on the X100V, providing a new angled touch screen and improved autofocus performance. Image quality has been improved, thanks in part to a new lens, and performance in low light is better. Then the viewfinder has a higher resolution - both optical and electronic - as well as support for 4K / 30p video recording.You'll have to pay for an objective filter to get full weather resistance, and the price will be too high for some people, but the X100V puts an impressive range of features in a polished, premium camera body with a retro style, that sets it apart from the competition - while still fitting perfectly in your pocket.
SPECIFICATIONS
- • Sensor: 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS
- • Lens: 23 mm f / 2
- • Monitor: 3 inches, 1,620,000 dots
- • Viewfinder: optical / electronic hybrid
- • Continuous shooting: 11fpsVideo: 4K
- • User level: Experienced
9. Panasonic GX9
The Panasonic GX9 is an older model now, but that means it can now be purchased at a great price. It uses the Micro Four Thirds mount to give you access to a wide range of lenses - perfect for you who want many options when traveling.With a flat viewfinder design, it is ideal for both travel and street photography. It is both compact and elegant and is an excellent addition to your carry-on luggage. It uses a 20.3MP sensor that works well, especially in good light, and has other useful features such as 4K video, a 3-inch angled screen and a very useful viewfinder.The battery life is a bit on the limited side, so it may be a good idea to pack an extra battery if you travel far, but otherwise this is a great little all-round for those who want something light and powerful.
SPECIFICATIONS
- • Sensor: 20.3 MP Four Thirds
- • Lens: Micro Four Thirds
- • Monitor: 3.0-inch reversible screen, 1,240,000 dots
- • Viewfinder: EVF
- • Continuous shooting: 9 fps
- • Video: 4K 30 fps
- • User level: Intermediate level
10. Sony ZV-1
If you primarily want to shoot travel video instead of still images, then the Sony ZV-1 is the best solution available. It combines the best video-focused features of the Sony RX100 series and adds its latest autofocus system, which is probably the best you can find in a compact camera. The lack of an electronic viewfinder means the ZV-1 is less practical for still images than the RX100 VII (see previous review), but it's still a good option thanks to its 20.1 MP 1-inch sensor. When it comes to recording video, this camera is really good, though with its bright 24-70mm f / 1.8-2.8 lens and Real-time Eye AF perfect for recording professional vlogs. A 3.5mm microphone jack also means you can get sound quality to match the video, while a built-in hotshoe is ready to help you mount accessories.
SPECIFICATIONS
- • Type: Compact
- • Sensor size: 1-inch
- • Resolution: 20.1MP
- • Lens: 24-70mm f / 1.8-2.8
- • Screen: 3.0-inch variable touch screen, 921,600 dots
- • Viewfinder: None
- • Maximum continuous shooting speed : 24fps
- • Video: 4K / 30p
- • User level: Beginner / intermediate
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