While most cameras are capable of digital zoom, the in-camera post-processing can sometimes interfere with your results, leaving you with underwhelming resolution and low-quality pictures. Optical zoom, on the other hand, uses a series of lenses to enlarge the subject in your exposure without digital manipulation, ensuring that your subject is limited only by the megapixel (MP) rating of your camera’s sensor. Optical zoom cameras are ideal for all sorts of shots, including travel, landscape photography, sporting events, wildlife, or any situation where you’d like to get closer to your subject without sacrificing image quality. Make sure to scope out our guide to understanding zoom lenses if you’re trying to get a bird’s eye view of what this type of camera can do for you. Here are the best optical zoom cameras from brands including Canon, Nikon, and Sony. We’ve considered factors such as price, ease of use, stabilization, and zoom to work out the best cameras. The 18.1MP MOS sensor performs well in low light, too, and built-in body stabilization helps you capture crisp, clear photos. However, for telephoto video, you’ll get best results if you pair your camera with a tripod. After you’ve finished shooting, transfer your images straight to your devices using the camera’s built-in Wi-Fi. The FZ80 also includes Panasonic’s “Post Focus” technology, which lets you set your focal points in post-production, allowing you to capture a scene without having to pause and perfectly compose the picture. Even if you’re new to photography, the camera’s controls can be learned fairly quickly. You have a 3-inch LCD touchscreen display to choose your setting and create your shot. The FZ80 is a top choice if you need a camera that can shoot quickly, accurately, and capture impressive zoom shots, whether you’re on vacation or just in your own backyard. Resolution: 18.1MP | Sensor Type: 1/2.3" MOS | Max ISO: 3,200 | Optical Zoom: 60x | Connectivity: NFC, Wi-Fi Photographers will enjoy the 20.3MP CMOS sensor, Wi-Fi connectivity, and the ability to shoot 1080p Full HD video. While the rear LCD, unfortunately, isn’t a touchscreen, the 3-inch LCD is large enough that it’s easy to compose your shot and review photos you’ve already taken. The SX540 also benefits from Zoom Framing Assist, which allows users to lock onto a subject and track it automatically, a useful feature for photographing animals, sports, or anything else that’s moving quickly. This makes it much easier to capture clear shots where your entire subject is in the frame. We like that this camera is affordable as well—while you might not get the specs you’d find in a more premium camera, most users are to be impressed by how many great features this little camera can offer. Resolution: 20.3MP | Sensor Type: 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS Sensor | Max ISO: 3,200 | Optical Zoom: 50x | Connectivity: NFC, Wi-Fi The P1000 provides so much zoom that you can easily use it for astrophotography, capturing the moon, stars, and even other planets as they pass by. Users also can enjoy a 16MP CMOS sensor, 7FPS burst shooting, and 4K Ultra HD video. You have the ability to shoot in RAW on the P1000, which avid photographers will appreciate. Plus, you can get creative with some of the useful features included in the camera, such as time lapse, Superlapse, and built-in filters for editing. When shooting for long periods of time, the camera’s size is comfortable and easy to grip, although it could be too large for those who prefer something more compact. Thanks to the addition of a control ring, you can adjust the camera’s focus or exposure without needing to look away from the viewfinder. If only the best zoom will do, you might want to splurge on the P1000. Resolution: 16.7MP | Sensor Type: 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS Sensor | Max ISO: 6,400 | Optical Zoom: 125x | Connectivity: NFC, Wi-Fi Users can shoot in both JPEG or RAW, which opens up more possibilities for editing in post-production. You also can upload your shots straight to your phone or social media, since both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity are included in the SX70. Photographers have access to a 20.3MP High-Sensitivity CMOS, which is great for low light, and super-fast focus and shooting from the camera’s DIGIC 8 Image Processor. Or, shoot video with 4K UHD at up to 30FPS, but be aware that 4K video tends to record slightly cropped. Other than that, it’s a great all-rounder that your family can use for years to come. Resolution: 20.3MP | Sensor Type: 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS Sensor | Max ISO: 3,200 | Optical Zoom: 65x | Connectivity: NFC, Wi-Fi You can use the Party Mode to automatically adjust your ISO to enable vivid photos, useful for shooting in low-light. If it’s video you’re after, this camera can record in 720p high definition. For less than $200, it’s hard to find a better value camera. When you’re shooting, you’ll find the smooth grips comfortable to hold and use, with great ergonomic support. However, some users report that it can take some time to master the menu system, as it can be confusing—although users can simplify their controls by switching to Easy Mode. With sharp autofocus, high-quality images, and a budget-friendly price, there’s plenty to like about the H300. Resolution: 20.4MP | Sensor Type: 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS Sensor | Max ISO: 3,200 | Optical Zoom: 35x | Connectivity: NFC, Wi-Fi Patrick Hyde has 4+ years’ experience writing about consumer technology and electronics. His work has appeared in Los Angeles Review of Books, Reactual, and more.
What to Look for in an Optical Zoom Camera
Brand
Many photographers are loyal to a specific camera brand, be it Nikon, Canon, or another manufacturer. The reason is, most DSLR lenses are not interchangeable between brands. If you already have a collection of lenses at home, buy a camera that can put them to use. Professionals will generally shoot in RAW, as the format gives them more control in the editing process. It’s also great for high-resolution photos if you want to have your work printed and framed. However, for most casual users, the JPEG quality is more than good enough to get beautiful results.
Sensor size
Most people spring for the camera with the highest resolution, measured in megapixels. A 20-megapixel camera theoretically takes better pictures than a 16-megapixel one, but this isn’t always the most telling spec when it comes to performance. Instead, look at the sensor size. A larger sensor will capture more light and produce images with less noise.
Design
If you’re dropping a couple of hundred bucks on a camera, make sure it feels good in your hands. While the design is more a matter of personal preference, try holding a couple of different models and go with what feels comfortable.
