Discover the best compact cameras with 4K video in our guide. Explore compact, powerful cameras, perfect for travel, vlogging, and everyday use.
Is a compact camera still worth it?
Many people love simplicity in life, and this is reflected in the compact camera community as well. Some just want to take high-quality and reliable photos without having to dive deep into complex camera settings or technical specs. For them, "good enough" is just good enough. That's exactly why compact cameras remain relevant today.
The newer generation of compact cameras can record in 4K, are very portable, and offer many features similar to those of mirrorless or DSLR cameras. Below you will find our top five candidates for the best compact camera of 2025, rated by price, specs, and real-world image quality.
1. Following the success of the first model, the Sony ZV-1 II is the best compact camera. It offers improvements with its new 1-inch Exmor RS CMOS and a 24 to 70 mm f/1.8-2.8 lens that can record up to 4K/30fps and even 1080p/120fps. We love its compact design, many features, reliable autofocus tracking, and built-in directional microphone. It's perfect for vlogging on the go.
2. The Fujifilm X100VI is also worth considering. We love it for its DSLR-like photo quality in a compact format and impressive color reproduction. Its APS-C X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor is excellent for cinematic 6.2K and 4K videos – all in a small body.
3. Another mention goes to the Panasonic Lumix LX100 II. You'll love it if you're looking for a camera with fully manual control dials and want more depth and satisfying low-light performance from a point-and-shoot camera. The lens can record 4K videos at 30 frames per second and is our personal favorite camera.
4. If you are a content creator, you will love the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III with its vertical video option, making it a great solution for TikTok or Instagram videos. The camera features a 1-inch CMOS sensor and a 24 to 100 mm f/1.8–2.8 lens, allowing you to create impressive photos and videos. Support for external microphones and live streaming is an added bonus – a treat for Canon fans.
5. And the last top point-and-shoot camera on this list is the Canon PowerShot V1 with its 20.1 MP 1-inch CMOS sensor, which has quickly become a favorite among travelers. This camera can record 4K/30p videos and works excellently with its dual-pixel autofocus system. It also features an audio output for an external microphone for better recordings. A real highlight for capturing relaxed family photos to professional travel videos in 4K quality.
Better than compact cameras:
All these cameras are extremely handy and deliver impressive results, but due to their fixed-lens system, they are still significantly inferior to mirrorless cameras. The new generation of mirrorless cameras is noticeably more compact and works with lightweight lenses that often weigh up to 500 grams. This makes the overall package very portable and powerful.
Such a lens is the Sirui Aurora Series 85mm f/1.4 full-frame autofocus lens. This ultra-light camera lens is ideal for portraits and creative shallow depth-of-field shots while traveling and helps its users unlock their true creative potential.
It features an ultra-fast f/1.4 aperture that performs excellently even in poor lighting and creates a creamy, cinematic background blur with perfect subject isolation. The lens is a professional companion for creatives who want full-frame compatibility and extreme performance at a reasonable price.
Summary:
The best compact camera on this list is the Sony ZV-1 II, among others that have been recognized for their strengths. If you want to be more creative with your outdoor travel shots, investing in a mirrorless camera makes more sense. The Sirui Aurora Series 85mm f/1.4 full-frame autofocus lens is the best choice for such platforms and enables portrait and cinema-quality video even in low light.
