When it comes to digital cameras under $200, there’s no shortage of options. In fact, Consumer Reports has tested and ranked this camera for 2016.
If you’re on a budget, you’re doing well to go for the best digital camera under $ 200. It’s incredible the variety of cameras you can get in this price range.
Waterproof compact cameras, instant cameras, and even bridges. The fact that some are not among the most recent detracts from its quality.
#5 Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 Instant Film Camera
The traditional advantages of instant cameras – ease of use, the ability to share, and the ability to immediately enjoy the results of your shot – are perfectly compatible with the capabilities of the small camera built into your phone.
Instagram has based its logo on a Polaroid camera for good reason. The advantage of the Instax Mini 90 is that it gives more freedom to enthusiasts who want to show off their creativity.
You can use the Mini 90 in portrait or landscape mode, the camera has a shutter release button for each position, making it easier to grip in both directions.
There are handy little buttons all around the camera – the front shutter release button makes selfies easy, you can select different modes by flipping the lens ring.
The minimalist design of the Mini 90 makes shooting a lot of fun, I was surprised at how easy it is to get great images.
Despite an ISO sensitivity of 800, the Mini 90’s lens only opens at f / 12.7. which means that you will very often have to rely on the built-in flash.
Fujifilm’s X-series cameras are renowned for their excellent automatic exposure with or without flash, a common trait shared by the Mini 90.
Taking pictures with the Mini 90 is a bit more complicated than taking pictures on a smartphone, but not that much. You can, for example, lighten or darken the image to avoid overexposure or underexposure.
Even if the focus is automatic, macro and landscape modes adjust the lens to bring the subject closer or further.
- Automatically detects the brightness of the surrounding and adjusts the amount of flash and shutter speed to optimize photo quality; Lens: F=60 millimeter, F=12.7
- Double exposure mode 2 images are produced on 1 film sheet by pressing the shutter twice, automatic film feeding out
- Bulb mode the shutter remains open while the shutter button is depressed (10 seconds maximum) and a light trail can be photographed
- Macro mode short distance photography as close as 30 - 60 centimeter; Film size: 86 millimeter x 54 millimeter; Picture size: 62 millimeter x 46 millimeter
- Kids mode suitable for photographing kids, pets and other fast moving subjects due to a fast shutter speed
#4 Nikon Coolpix W100 Review
The Nikon Coolpix W100 is a versatile camera ready to take on the ocean right out of the box.
Able to withstand drops from over 1.8m and temperatures down to -10 ° C. It is also waterproof up to 10 m underwater. This little wonder can be used anywhere whatever the weather.
The robustness of this camera does not affect the quality in any way.
The Nikon Coolpix W100 produces stunning photos underwater thanks to its 13.2 megapixel CMOS image sensor and 3x NIKKOR optical zoom, equivalent to a 30-90mm at 24×36 that opens at f / 3.3- 5.9. The ISO range is from 125 to 1600 ISO.
All modes are automated, so it is not possible to set the device manually.
In good light conditions, the Nikon Coolpix W100 produces very sharp images. On the other hand in low light, it is necessary to use the flash to have a clear image.
In addition, at 100% chromatic aberration, electronic noise and lack of detail affect the picture quality. As long as you don’t print large format and save these images for the web, the device will do.
When you turn it on, you are entitled to a children’s menu; you have a menu with a pink background on the image or a menu with a blue background and a small car image.
But if you want it; you can activate the interface mode for adults which allows you to use it as a completely classic camera.
- Nikon COOLPIX W100 (Blue)
- Beautiful pictures are easy to take on land or in the sea. Waterproof down to a depth of 33 feet, shockproof from a 5.9 feet drop, freezeproof down to a temperature of 14°F.
- Stay connected with Nikon's SnapBridge app on a compatible smartphone or tablet and unlock exciting new capabilities with the COOLPIX W100. Built-in Wi-Fi, NFC and Bluetooth low energy (BLE) maintain a connection between the app and your camera
- 13.2 MP CMOS image sensor and genuine NIKKOR 3x optical zoom glass lens/6x Dynamic Fine Zoom
- Dimensions (WxHxD) : Approx.109.5, x67.0, x38.0mm (4.4, x2.7, x1.5in.), (excluding projections)
#3 Sony DSCWX220/B 18.2 MP Digital Camera
Sony DSCWX220 is certainly unlikely to win an image quality competition, but it is definitely much better than your new iPhone.
Let’s start with the price, this small camera goes anywhere, is easy to carry and to use, succeeds, not without daring, in this list of the best compact cameras under 200 dollars.
Sony clearly targets a specific market or rather average people. It’s the kind of compact camera that you can afford to buy on a whim, then slip it into a backpack or purse, to pull it out whenever the opportunity presents itself.
Intended primarily for amateurs, the Sony DSCWX220 offers a variety of scene modes that allow the beginner to take decent photos in difficult conditions such as evening or in low light.
Small enough to take you everywhere, the Sony DSCWX220 is the device you need for any occasion. Therefore, having a dedicated mode that makes your shots easier is a real advantage.
If you want more control over your photos, the Sony DSCWX220 offers manual control of exposure compensation (which makes images brighter / darker), white balance, and ISO.
But once ready, the Sony DSCWX220 does very well in good lighting, it locks the subject with speed and precision.
The auto white balance does a great job and delivers beautiful colors, and the auto modes produce well-balanced images with adequate detail in highlights and shadows.
- 10x Optical / 20x Clear Image Zoom G Lens, 182MP Exmor R CMOS Sensor for superb low light images, BIONZ X engine for superb detail and noise reduction
- Operating temperature:32-104°F/0-40°C.Smooth Full HD video recording in 1080/60p, Simple connectivity to smartphones via Wi-Fi w/NFC, Capture the decisive moment with up to 10fps
- In the box: Rechargeable Battery (NP-BN), AC Adaptor (AC-UB10C / UB10D), Micro USB cable, Wrist Strap, Instruction Manual
- BATTERY LIFE(STILL IMAGES)(CIPA):Up to 210 shots / 105 minutes
#2 Panasonic DMC-SZ10K LUMIX Slim Camera
The Panasonic Lumix SZ10 differs from its predecessor the sz9 by its tilting screen ideal for selfies. It shares with the latter the 12X lens and image stabilization system
The Panasonic Lumix SZ10 has a 12x optical zoom lens with a focal length equivalent to 24-288mm and a 16-megapixel sensor with a 720p video recording.
The lens has an optical stabilizer to compensate for camera shake caused by the photographer when taking the picture
The built-in Wi-Fi allows remote control of the camera and the transfer of images to a smartphone.
It has several shooting modes, including Intelligent Auto, Normal, Creative Control, Panorama, and Scene, which make the camera easier to use. It is available in white, black, and silver.
It does not have a mode selector, instead, there is a shortcut mode that allows access to the main settings, mainly automatic.
Battery life is rated at approximately 200 frames based on Panasonic / CIPA test results. However, it is recommended to have a spare battery; if you want to take lots of pictures or just want to use the Wi-Fi a lot.
The Panasonic SZ10 is quite responsive; it takes about 2 seconds to turn on the camera and start taking pictures. In contrast, the Burst turns out to be the best in its class, at around 3.75 frames per second, which is pretty good for this class of devices.
The exposure is quite reliable; the color reproduction is quite good; we obtain pleasant images to watch.
Even if the dynamics of the screen are not perfect, and the images appear worse on the screen than when viewed on another device; the exposure option makes it possible to improve this insufficiency.
The SZ10 produces good results between ISO100 and ISO400. It is possible to obtain shareable results on the web up to ISO 800.
This compact digital camera for less than 200 dollars has several effects, HDR function, as well as a panoramic mode. Only the resolution in panoramic mode is not famous.
- Slim and pocket sized -- a space-saving, discrete camera to carry anywhere
- 12X wide-angle zoom [24-288mm] provides an optimum zoon range for any scene
- Wide-angle lens and flip-up LCD for easy selfie shots
#1 Samsung WB350F Compact digital camera
While Samsung is little known in the compact camera market in Europe, it is very popular in Asian countries. The Samsung WB350F is the most technologically advanced compact digital camera under $ 200; and as such, deserves its place in this list.
Once connected to a Windows PC through a wireless network, you can configure Samsung’s i-Launcher software so that every photo you take is automatically saved using the “Auto Share” feature.
Another cool feature of the Samsung WB350F is its wireless connectivity which extends to video.
This means you could theoretically combine the Samsung WB350F with a tablet to make a makeshift monitor on your next vacation. It’s true that streaming is a bit slow but it can do the trick very well.
The ability to transfer images directly to your computer may not be of use to you, but you will definitely be pleased with the other wireless features of the Samsung WB350F. Including the MobileLink and the remote viewfinder.
MobileLink lets you transfer photos from a smartphone or send files from the camera to one or more smartphones. The remote viewfinder turns your smartphone or tablet into a viewfinder, allowing you to move the Samsung WB350F’s zoom and press the shutter button.
In short, this means that you can set up the Samsung WB350F on a tripod, then take a selfie or a group photo (with you included!), By controlling the camera with your phone.
- Share your best photos instantly with Family and Friends with Built-in Wi-Fi with NFC
- SMART features - Social Media Upload, E-mail, Photo beam, Direct Link, Mobile Link, PC Auto-backup, Remote Viewfinder, All Share
- 21x Optical Zoom for great shots up front or from a distance
- 1080p HD Video
- microSD card required.
Canon PowerShot SX420 IS Wi-Fi Digital Camera
This Wi-Fi Digital Camera is perfect for capturing amazing images and videos quickly. With its 42x optical zoom and 24mm angle lens, this camera can take beautiful photos and videos from any distance. Plus, the installed Wi-Fi feature can share your photos easily with your friends.
Fujifilm FinePix Waterproof Digital Camera
This camera is perfect for capturing amazing photos and videos while you’re out on your next adventure! This is a water-resistant to 65 feet, shock resistant to 5 feet, and frost resistant to 14 degrees Fahrenheit. So whether you’re swimming with dolphins, hiking in the mountains, or skiing on a snowy slope, this camera will be ready to capture all of your memories! Plus, it has a 16.
Sony DSCW800 digital camera
The Sony DSCW800 digital camera is perfect for capturing beautiful memories and moments with loved ones. This camera is full of features, including an 8x optical zoom lens and CMOS sensor, which helps to ensure stunning images and videos every time. The camera also includes SteadyShot image stabilization technology, which helps to reduce the effects of camera movements, resulting in clearer photos and videos.7
Buying Guide For Consumer Reports Best Digital Camera Under 200
After this essential development, I will be able to detail you what are the essential criteria to look at when you buy a camera, in particular your first “serious” camera.
Indeed, I imagine that if you are there, it is because you do not only take pictures with your friends in the evening and 3 pictures on vacation.
In this case, frankly, use your smartphone, that will be enough! But if you are looking to take beautiful artistic photos, or even to professionalize yourself, choosing according to the criteria below is essential.
Creative Modes
What is very important is that you can make precise adjustments to the technical characteristics of the camera such as the aperture of the diaphragm, the shutter speed, the ISO sensitivity, the white balance, etc.
Without Go into details here, these settings are important for getting good shots and special effects that help express yourself while photographing.
THE most important criterion is therefore that your device allows you access to the creative modes, that is to say, the Program, Aperture priority, Shutter priority, and Manual modes.
They are really very important for mastering your images. Most devices offer them, but you have to be careful with inexpensive compacts.
In addition, you will see that in use, it is much more comfortable to have a dedicated wheel that allows you to easily change mode, rather than going into the menus.
As far as I am concerned, it is a purchase criterion for a device: if the dial is not present, I do not buy it.
RAW Format
If you have read the blog already, you probably know the importance I give to the use of the RAW format. I
t is really very important for the final quality of your images to go through the post-processing phase, which is much more flexible with this format. Its presence is therefore for me an essential criterion if you buy a serious device.
If you turn to hybrids or SLRs, you will have RAW, but this will not always be the case on bridges and compacts: be sure that they offer it if you turn to these solutions.
Sensor Size
The two previous criteria are essential and non-negotiable, especially since they are not complicated to meet, even for fairly tight budgets.
But there is one criterion that is really important for a lot of things:
- The quality of the images
- Your creative possibilities
- The versatility of the device
If you read the first part correctly, you have to guess it: this is the size of the sensor. Be careful, I am talking about the physical size of the sensor, not the number of megapixels (which is still sufficient today).
- Achieve shallow depths of field, that is to say, a pronounced and aesthetic background blur. You won’t have to have it on all your images, eh, it will just be possible. It is an effect sought after by many photographers, especially for portraiture, but which can be used creatively in all fields. Without a large sensor, don’t even think about it.
- Second cool kiss effect: better rendering in low light. A large sensor will generate less noise and better quality images when you run out of light (which is quite often actually).
Exception though: if you compare a small sensor today to a large sensor from 6 years ago, the newer one might be better. But for an equivalent generation, the large sensor beats the small one flatly!
Conclusion
To choose the best compact camera, compare cameras from the same range (large zoom, expert, all-terrain, looking for each type of sensor, zoom range (ex: 25-600mm) as well as quality. videos, in light of the price.
FAQs?
1: How can you format a memory card?
The memory card is already formatted for first use. If you want to format it to destroy the photos present and make new ones, look in the menu for configuration mode then format.
2: What is the best brand of compact camera?
There is no single answer to this question. Each brand has at least one device that emerges as the winner of comparative tests or is among the best.
3: What device do I need to post photos on social media?
For online use, it is best to stay at a low definition, often 72 dpi. A low-cost device will be quite sufficient. You can set the photo format to a low resolution to have more memory space on the card.
4: Does the device work with batteries or with batteries?
Most compact cameras are battery operated. They can be recharged using a special box or by directly connecting the camera. The duration of use is often reduced, it is preferable to always have a spare battery with you.
Is a $200 camera worth it?
People with a $200 digital camera budget are exploring that offers better image quality and is more affordable than their smartphone or tablet. This can be used as a kid’s camera, or you can take it with you if you’re worried about losing it.
Which camera brand is the most reliable?
- Canon EOS R6.
- Nikon D780.
- Sony α7II.
- Fujifilm. Fuji X-T4.
- Panasonic DC-S5.
- Olympus Mark III.
- Pentax Mark III.
Are digital cameras still worth buying?
Wanted to take your photography skills more seriously as a hobby or for professional reasons, then you definitely need a digital camera. This allows you to experiment with things like shutter and aperture that aren’t possible with smartphone cameras.
What should I look for in a digital camera?
10 things to consider when buying a camera
- camera type.
- DSLR and mirrorless.
- speed and performance. File size or megapixels (MP) is the first factor most people consider when buying a camera.
- Megapixel myth and reality.
- Ergonomics.
- Interchangeable lenses.
- Image stabilisation.