Best Digital Cameras In 2022

crazyostrich513
April 12, 2022
2:23 pm

Finding the best digital camera in 2022 that will meet all your needs can be a bit of a challenge, even for the most seasoned of photographers. While many manufacturers are still creating some of the best point-and-shoot digital cameras, the market has turned its attention toward advanced models that carry higher price points. Advanced digital cameras include DSLR cameras, full-frame mirrorless cameras with interchangeable lenses (ILCs), as well as fixed lens cameras. And while these cameras have a higher price point (topping out at over $3,000), they offer excellent image quality that often exceeds that of instant cameras. If you want to use any of these cameras for wildlife photography, you might also be interested in our review of the DSLR red dot (which makes for killer wildlife photography).

We focused on a wide range of options for our review and came up with a list of 15 different digital cameras to buy and test in person. During our testing, we focused mainly on image quality, but also took other features into account, such as the build quality of the camera and its video recording capabilities. After taking landscape shots, selfies, and more, we voted the Canon PowerShot SX530 the best digital camera of 2022 for its massive zoom, excellent image sensor size, and overall reliability. Keep reading to learn more about this option and the other four best digital cameras you can buy. Take beautiful photos with sharp backgrounds using our best photo box guide.

The Top 5 Best Digital Cameras Compared

#1 Canon PowerShot SX530 digital camera

Why do we love it? The Canon PowerShot SX530 is a super versatile digital camera with strong image quality and a powerful zoom lens. We think it’s one of the best cameras money can buy.

If you want to shoot remotely without sacrificing quality, you should definitely consider the PowerShot SX530.

Pros

It has the best optical zoom on our list.
Wi-Fi and NFC functionality.

Cons

Responsive Overall Performance
expensive option on our list
Focus speed while zooming can be slow.
No electronic viewfinder

Canon’s PowerShot SX530 offers tremendous versatility thanks to its 50x optical zoom and overall snappy performance. The image quality here is much better than what you’ll find in a typical large-zoom fixed-lens camera, meaning you’ll have no problem making large prints with this Powershot. Because the SX530 has a lot of features that outperform most cameras with a large zoom, it is one of the best on the market, especially if you use it as a travel camera or for blogging applications. It would have been nice if Canon had found a way to add a viewfinder to this model, but it’s still a rock-solid camera.

Unfortunately, the SX530 can struggle to focus quickly when fully zoomed in, which is the only complaint we had about such a large zoom. The good thing is that this minor drawback is by no means a make-or-break feature that you need to worry too much about. You also get full HD 1080p video recording at 30 frames per second, a feature we were surprised to see here. We were pleased with both the image and video quality we were able to capture with the PowerShot SX530, so this super-zoom camera was our top pick.

#2 Sony DSCW800 digital camera

Why do we love it? The Sony DSCW800/B is a high-speed point-and-shoot camera that offers stunning image quality in a thin, compact body. The low price doesn’t hurt either.

Pros

Incredibly easy to use.
Ultra-compact
and powerful Xenon Flashcons

Cons

There is no 1080p video.
Plastic construction feels cheap with
no wifi.

With a powerful Super HAD CCD image sensor, it will be hard to find a compact point-and-shoot camera with better image quality than the Sony DSCW800/B. The sensor offers an impressive 20.1MP in its ultra-compact frame, and the size of the CCD sensor puts Sony’s outperformers among the other compacts we’ve tested.

Unfortunately, the Sony DSCW800/B doesn’t offer much in the way of optical zoom with just a 5x lens, but you do get some other features worth mentioning. In particular, you get Sony’s SteadyShot image stabilization, which keeps your photos sharp and clear, along with a 360-degree panorama option for a more unique view. The LCD screen here is another very strong feature, with a diagonal 2.7-inch colourful screen that allows you to view your photos whenever you want. The Sony DSCW800/B is a great point-and-shoot camera that won’t disappoint. For great deals, read about the best digital camera under $200.

# 3 Digital camera Canon PowerShot ELPH 180

Why We Love It: The Canon PowerShot ELPH 180 is the most compact camera on our list, measuring just 0.87 inches thick. Fortunately, this compact digital camera is packed with features, so you won’t miss anything just because of its small size.

Pros:

extremely compact design.
colourful display
Great for beginners.

Cons

No 1080p video.
Doesn’t offer much in manual operation.
It doesn’t do well in low light.

If you’re looking for a digital camera that won’t get in the way of the rest of your gear, look no further than the Canon PowerShot ELPH 180. It’s the perfect point-and-shoot camera to take with you on a trip or while you are on your way. The ELPH 180 offers you a lot of useful functions in its small 0.87-inch frame. For starters, this 20MP digital camera uses a CCD sensor and additional image stabilisation features to help you get the best pictures possible.

Of course, given the price and size of this digital camera, you won’t be able to achieve comparable image quality to premium digital cameras, especially in low light. Overall, however, we were very pleased with the images we were able to capture with the ELPH during our testing. The camera also has an 8x optical zoom and an impressively large screen (5 inches), making this one of the best cameras for beginners. You don’t get Full HD video camera capabilities, but given everything else you get with the Canon PowerShot ELPH 180, we just couldn’t pass it up. If you need something more robust, check out the best waterproof camera.

#4 Yisence waterproof camera

Why We Love It: When you’re on an adventure, you want to be able to take pictures of everything, even underwater. With the Yisence waterproof digital camera, you can take pictures underwater without any worries.

Pros

waterproof
The least expensive option on the list
Unique “selfie” screen

cons

The screen is not very high resolution.
can only go 10 ft deep.
Operation is not so intuitive.

There aren’t many high-quality waterproof cameras out there unless you want to explore expensive GoPro territory. That’s why the Yisence waterproof digital camera is a refreshing addition to our list of the best digital cameras. The most attractive feature of this camera is, of course, its waterproof design, which does not require any kind of attachment or box. Although you can go 3 metres underwater for up to an hour at a time, you’ll still get excellent underwater photos without much effort.

The Yisence digital camera also features a unique dual screen design, making it easier for you to take selfies and capture them right from the first shot. In addition to the display on the back of the camera, there’s also a smaller display on the front of the camera, so you can see what you’re shooting in “selfie mode.” We were surprisingly impressed with this feature, although the screen doesn’t offer the highest resolution we’ve experienced. If you need something more robust and 100% waterproof, you can’t pass up the Yisence waterproof digital camera. You may also want to read about the best underwater camera.

#5 Longin digital camera

Why We Love It: The journey to becoming a photographer can be complicated and expensive, which is where the Longin digital camera comes in. This digital camera is affordable and easy to learn, giving you great images right out of the box.

Pros

It’s extremely simple to use.
2.7K video capture
Tiltable display

cons

Disappointing optical zoom.
The design feels a bit cheap.
The battery drains too fast during video recording.

If you’re a photographer just starting out, you’re probably hesitant to put a lot of money and time into a brand new DSLR camera. And while digital SLR cameras are something you should ultimately aim for, the Longin digital camera is an excellent starting point, especially if you’re on a budget. With a resolution of 24 MP still images and a video resolution of 2.7K (27041520), you are equipped with a powerful small camera that allows you to take high-quality photos and videos with ease.

And while the screen isn’t a tilting touchscreen, it can still be tilted vertically up to 180 degrees, giving you huge flexibility when shooting your photos. During our testing, this was one of our favourite features. Overall, the design of the Longin digital camera is good, but it feels a bit tacky and almost too light, which gives it a cheaper feel than what we normally like. That said, we’ve had no issues with durability. These features and the ease of use make the Longin digital camera our top choice for beginners. Also, check out the best mirrorless cameras.

A Beginner’s Guide to Digital Cameras

Digital cameras can feel a bit daunting to a beginner. Fortunately, they’re pretty straightforward for the average consumer to use, with many being very simple point-and-shoot affairs with little room for error. If you’re more of a hobbyist and have DSLRs in mind, they get a little more complex, but it’s nothing a bit of reading can’t help smooth out, which is exactly why we’ve prepared this guide.

What Is a Digital Camera?

So, what is a digital camera anyway? Simply put, it is a camera that records images to an internal memory rather than film. With old cameras, you had to change the film every now and then when you ran out of photos, but with digital cameras, you can upload the images you have in the camera’s internal memory to a computer. However, digital cameras still bear a lot of resemblance to traditional film cameras and still use a lens, aperture, and shutter. Today, however, the image is picked up and stored with electronics and sensors, not with chemicals on film.

How does a digital camera work?

Digital cameras need to capture what you point to using purely electronic means. Film cameras relied on the chemical reaction that took place on film when exposed to light, but how digital cameras work is slightly different, as they use electronic sensors to interpret the light entering from the lens and aperture and translate it into an image using a digital converter and printed circuit board. Interpreted images are then shown on the camera’s digital screen, so you can look at a picture right away instead of having to wait for the images to develop.

When did the digital camera become mainstream? In 1990, the first digital camera, the DycamModel 1, hit the US stores. The camera, marketed as the Logitech Fotoman, used a CCD camera sensor. It digitally stored photos in a 1 MB storage space, and a user could transfer files to a PC for download. The suggested retail price was $995.

Using a digital camera

Cameras today are complex, and after you become familiar with using your digital camera, you can start customising your camera settings to suit your preferences. When it comes to entry-level and semi-professional cameras, it generally pays to be familiar with the camera options, such as timing, exposure, white balance, zoom range, and ISO speeds. Part of learning how to use a digital camera involves becoming familiar with all that your camera can do, which will help you take truly great photos.

Infobox: When was the first digital camera made? The first digital camera was built in 1975 by Eastman Kodak engineer Steven Sasson. The camera was the size of a lunchbox and was built using the CCD image sensors invented in 1974. The camera took 23 seconds to record a black and white image with a resolution of 0.01 MP. The storage device was a cassette tape.

How long do digital cameras last?

The number of years a digital camera will last is determined by the number of shutter speeds or the number of photos it can take before reaching the end of its life. Fortunately, most cameras are built to take about 100,000 to 200,000 shots before the shutter mechanism starts to fail, which is about 5 years of regular use.

Infobox: How the digital camera changed society: In today’s world, people document all their activities through videos and photography. It has come to the point where anyone can follow a person through their Facebook account or Instagram pages and get to know their lifestyle in minutes. This trend has sparked major online discussions and fueled societal debates about issues that take place in private. Society is constantly changing in unprecedented ways, thanks to the low cost of storing photos and evolving technology.

Choosing a digital camera

When it comes to choosing a good digital camera, the number of choices you have can be a little overwhelming, especially when you start looking at common accessories like extra lenses. There are many different types of digital cameras on the market that can cloud the water for you, but we can help you clear the hurdles when it comes to making a decision you’re happy with. The following steps will help you narrow down your choices to something that fits your budget and your own specific needs.

How much should you expect to spend on a digital camera?

Photography is an expensive hobby. If you’re wondering how much you can spend on a digital camera, we can help you narrow down your choices. Entry-level cameras typically cost between $100 and $300 and provide enough information to help you decide if photography is a hobby you want to pursue. However, as your skills develop, you may need to upgrade to a better camera. DSLR cameras, considered enthusiast models, cost about $700 USD on average, but can go up to $6000 for truly professional quality cameras.

Should you buy a new digital camera?

If you’re not sure whether you should buy a new camera, consider both the camera you already own and used cameras that can offer similar features to what you’re looking for at a lower price. On the other hand, if your skills have outgrown your current camera or if this is going to be your first camera, a new camera is a good choice. Keep your skill level and your specific needs in mind when making a decision.

Stat: Digital camera sales have fallen by 87% since 2010. Why? Smartphones have started to deliver better and better cameras, and now they’re good enough for the average Joe.

Are you a photography enthusiast or more casual?

Compact cameras are easy to use and are perfect for novice photographers. More advanced photographers might instead consider what constitutes a good DSLR, which offers high-quality photos with advanced sensors, high dynamic range, and specialised features, such as interchangeable lenses. Next up are mirrorless cameras, which provide incredible high-resolution images and ultra-HD videos. They also offer faster shutter speeds than standard DSLRs, but both offer the option of mounting different lenses with different focal lengths, such as 6mm and 8mm. However, in recent years, action cameras like the GoPro have grown in popularity because they have powerful features for shooting in active environments and are both durable and versatile. Another interesting camera category is 360-degree cameras that take truly immersive panoramic shots of half and full circles. Finally, there are movie cameras that offer full manual control over the camera.

What sensor size do you need?

This stuff gets technical and is largely for enthusiasts and covers what sensor size is. Sensor sizes of 1/3.6′′ or 1/2′′ generate a lot of noise and are unsuitable for photographers seeking a shallow depth of field. If you want to zoom in on distant objects with a camera with a non-detachable lens, it is best to use a superzoom or bridge camera with a sensor size of 1 inch. If you want a sensor that allows for a shallow depth of field for landscape or wildlife photography, choose a micro-four-thirds camera with a sensor size half the size of a full-frame sensor. Sure, for most camera consumers comparing sensor sizes, the ideal option is an APS-C sensor with a crop factor of 1.5 (DSLRs). Professional photographers opt for full-frame mirrorless cameras or medium-format sensor cameras with a higher megapixel count, such as 16MP or 20MP digital cameras.

What features are you looking for?

A good camera requires in-camera RAW processing to create print-ready versions of your images. A camera with a silent or electronic shutter, such as a mirrorless camera, is a good choice because it allows you to shoot without drawing undue attention. Other key features to look out for include a waterproof case, a self-timer, scene recognition, and burst mode. Self-timers let you put a camera down after pressing the button to take a picture and enter the frame—perfect for group shots. Burst mode, on the other hand, takes a lot of photos on your digital camera in a second or so after pressing the button to take a photo, which is great for taking action shots or giving picky photographers multiple shots to choose from in a mostly static scene.

Consider the size and weight of your digital camera. Cameras aren’t exactly heavy, but some of the larger options can be a pain to lug around when you’re on the go.

Should you buy second-hand?

Whether or not you should buy a used digital camera depends on your budget and your plans for the future. Amateur photographers can get away with investing in the wide range of older models available outside of the used market. On the other hand, a professional photographer should probably try to get something more modern and better from the manufacturer. When you buy used, you have no other guarantee than third-party insurance. If your camera brings you income, you should always invest in some kind of warranty. So take a good look at your budget and determine whether a camera from the second-hand market is right for you.

Owning a digital camera

Today, most people prefer the convenience of a smartphone camera, but it also has drawbacks. If you own a digital camera, you have a special machine built specifically for taking breathtaking photos. For example, a digital camera uses optical zoom, which takes long-distance and close-up shots without compromising the quality of the image, while the digital zoom in smartphone cameras lowers the resolution of the image. Also, having a separate digital camera allows you to take wide-angle photos of landscapes and family portraits, as well as taking better flash photos, having more battery life, and having more storage space for your photos, among other great features.

Digital camera maintenance

If you do nothing else, be sure to perform regular maintenance on your digital camera. You can buy separate supplies or a cleaning kit for this. It’s always a good idea to make sure that the cleaning products you use are approved and safe for your camera. Otherwise, you could do more harm than good.

How to keep your digital camera clean.

Keeping your digital camera clean is critical to its longevity and longevity. You should perform regular maintenance with approved cleaning solutions. Be sure to keep the lens clean and free of debris, as well as the shutters and viewfinder. Dirty lenses will make photos look worse, while a dirty viewfinder or shutter will make it harder to get a shot. Shutters, in particular, can jam closed or open if you let them get dirty.

Are Extended Warranties for Digital Cameras Worth It? new. On average, only 1 in 10 cameras is sent in for warranty repair. Most people will never need the coverage, meaning money spent on the extended warranty will only increase the retailer’s profit margin. Even the most affordable compact cameras have a shutter count of about 50,000 shots, while advanced DSLRs can handle about 100,000 shutter movements before the shutter starts to have problems. Usually, unless you’re very careless with your camera, by the time the shutters break, you’ll be looking for a new camera anyway.

Solve common problems with digital cameras.

Like with any piece of technology, you may run into issues with your digital camera while using it. If the camera does not turn on, make sure the battery is fully charged and installed correctly. Then check whether the battery contacts and the battery compartment are dirty. Then make sure the battery latch is closed properly. If the camera cannot take pictures, the battery may need charging or the memory card may be full. If your photos come out blurry, you may have a dirty or cracked lens. Also, make sure to keep your camera up to date with the latest manufacturer’s software, and always remember that if the software on your camera goes down, you must learn how to do a full factory restore, as it may solve your problem.

Understanding what different camera lenses do

A camera lens, such as the one used on a digital camera, is a tool used to bring light to a fixed focal point. On film cameras, the lens directs light onto the film strip, while on a digital camera, the lens focuses the light on a digital sensor. The digital camera lens specifies the maximum aperture range a photographer can use, the ideal depth of field, and the focusing distance. However, different camera lenses also do different things. Learning to shoot with wide-angle lenses will help you take better landscape shots. The numbers on digital camera lenses relate directly to the aperture and focus of the lens. Enthusiastic photographers will usually carry extra lenses for their shots, so they will have a wide variety of choices for their shots.

Connecting a digital camera to a computer

Most digital cameras can be connected to a computer via a USB cable, although the type of USB cable may vary. To do this, connect the cable to both the camera and the computer, turn the camera off for a moment, then turn it back on. Finally, load any necessary media software, such as tethering programmes.