Best travel camera 2020 for your next trip

Best travel camera 2020 at a glance:

• Panasonic Lumix ZS200 / TZ200
• Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
• Canon G5X Mark II
• Sony Cybershot RX100 VII
• Sony A6100
• Fujifilm X-T30
• Nikon Z50
• Sony Cybershot RX10 IV
• Fujifilm X100V
• Panasonic G100
• Sony ZV-1
• Fujifilm X-T200

Sony Cyber-shot RX100 III

It’s starting a little bit, but this RX100 model still packs a punch

Sensor: 1-inch type, 20.1 megapixels | Lens: 24-70mm, f / 1.8-2.8 | Screen: 3-inch 1,229,000-dot tilt screen | Viewfinder: EVF | Continuous shooting: 10 fps | Movies: 4K | User level: Beginner / Intermediate

Before we take a look at our list of our best travel cameras, we wanted to highlight an alternative that is a few generations old but that still packs a punch. Sony’s RX100 III is a few years old now and originally sold for nearly $ 1,000 / £ 1,000, but with the arrival of newer models (including the RX100 VII below), their price has dropped dramatically. Negatives? Well the zoom is quite short compared to the other competitors here, but other than that, there’s a lot to like. There’s a decent 1-inch 20.1-megapixel sensor, pop-up electronic viewfinder, and 4K video recording, all while it’s packaged in a premium metal housing. Definitely worth a visit if the zoom range isn’t your main concern.

1- Panasonic Lumix ZS200 / TZ200

The best travel zoom camera you can buy right now

Sensor: 1-inch type, 20.1 megapixels | Lens: 24-360mm, f / 3.3-6.4 | Screen: 3 inch touch screen with resolution of 1,240,000 dots | Viewfinder: EVF | Continuous shooting: 10 fps | Movies: 4K | User level: Beginner / Intermediate

With the advent of high-quality built-in software like the excellent Sony Cyber-shot RX100 V stealing the thunder of compact travel zoom, Panasonic’s response has been to keep the camera body almost the same. Its size than previous ZS / TZ series cameras, but to squeeze it out. Its a much larger sensor. We’ve seen this with the Lumix ZS100 (known as the Lumix TZ100 outside of the US), and Panasonic has gone with the newer Lumix ZS200 / TZ200. This larger 1-inch sensor allows for better image quality than it would otherwise, but the slight downside is that the lens’ zoom range is not as wide as some other smaller sensors. However, the ZS200 / TZ200 still has a very versatile 15x zoom, while there is also an integrated electronic viewfinder, which makes it easy to compose images in bright light. It’s a little pricey, but it’s still the best compact travel zoom camera available today.

2- Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III

Small but capable – arguably the ultimate travel package

Sensor: Four Thirds, 20.4MP | Target: Unavailable | Screen: 3.0  » Vari-angle Touchscreen, 1,040,000 dots | Viewfinder: 2.36 million dots OLED EVF | Continuous shooting: 30fps | Movies: 4K | User level: Medium

Compact, versatile, and capable – choose two and you’ve got a great travel camera. The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is the three, and more. Its weatherproof polycarbonate shell is small and light, but handles great. It provides photographers on the go with a large number of modes and features that ensure great vacation photos. The combination of a powerful image processor, phase detection autofocus on the chip, and some of the best image stabilization skills make this kit incredibly capable of shooting on the go. . Yes, the quality of the live image cannot match the larger formats in more complex conditions (low-light, for example), but you’ll be hard-pressed to find a travel camera that can pinpoint a lot. Other boxes. Add 4K video to the mix for roving vlogs and you’ve got a mirrorless camera that deserves a spot in your bag.

3- Canon Powershot G5 X Mark II camera

This large versatile device could be the perfect size for a gamer

Sensor: 1-inch type, 20.1 megapixels | Lens: 24-120mm, f / 1.8-2.8 | Screen: 3.0-inch touchscreen, 1,040,000 dots | Viewfinder: EVF | Continuous shooting: 20 fps | Movies: 4K | User level: Beginner / Intermediate

What the G5X Mark II loses in magnification it makes up for in other areas. With a wide maximum aperture across the focal length, it is a well-suited camera for a wide range of lighting conditions. Also, saving up to 120mm (in terms of 35mm) is still quite flexible. Elsewhere is a high-performance 1-inch sensor, stunning 4K videos, and a pop-up electronic viewfinder that fits nicely on a tilted LCD. There are undoubtedly more advanced cameras on the market, but few of them combine a good set of features like these in one package at competitive prices.

4- Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VII

Sony’s rugged pocket device gets another upgrade

Sensor: 1-inch type, 20.1 megapixels | Lens: 24-200mm, f / 2.8-4.5 | Screen: 3-inch touch screen 921,000 dots tilt | Viewfinder: EVF | Continuous shooting: 90 fps | Movies: 4K | User level: Medium

Sony revolutionized high-end compact cameras with the original RX100, being the first pocket camera to feature a large 1.0-inch sensor. Always great for travel, but thanks to its relatively limited zoom lens it may sometimes be overlooked in favor of other models. Things changed when we got to the RX100 VI, which had a much longer lens than ever before – and now we’ve seen some improvements in the model to the newest, RX100 VII. The sacrifice of lens lengthening is losing the super-wide aperture of previous generations, but if you’re going to be shooting primarily in sunny climates, that might not be a big deal. There’s also plenty of power under the hood of the RX100 VII. It comes with features you might never use, like a ridiculous 90fps burst mode, plus more popular features like 4K video. The big downside of this model is its hefty price tag, but if you want the best of the best for your travels, this might be the price for you. If your budget doesn’t quite match the asking price for the RX100 VII, take a look at the older models across the range for better prices.

5- Sony A6100

Small size but capable mirror camera with lots of aircraft tuning skills

Sensor: 24.2 MP APS-C CMOS | Target: Unavailable | Screen: 2.95 inches, 921,600 dots tilt angle screen | Viewfinder: EVF | Continuous shooting: 11 fps | Movies: 4K | User level: Beginner

If you don’t mind carrying something a little bigger than a pocket camera on your travels, then arguably the Sony A6100 offers the best balance of size, imaging power and value at hand. The actual time. It’s not without its flaws, but it limits most of the boxes for roaming photographers around the world. Despite its compact size, this entry-level mirrorless camera offers a host of useful features – customizable buttons and a flip-up touch screen microphone input, which, although limited in functionality, is ideal for framing faraway selfies. Paired with a good lens, the 24.2MP sensor delivers decent photos with plenty of detail, while the autofocus system – shared with the A6600 flagship – ensures accurate and reliable focus and excellent continuous tracking, even on the go. . The A6100 can also shoot 4K photos at 30fps, although there is no IBIS when recording travel vlogs. The battery life is strong as well, and so is the Wi-Fi, which works well with the partner app for quick sharing of vacation photos. Less impressive is the electronic viewfinder, relatively low-resolution LCD screen, and auto ISO, which can combat fast-moving targets. So it’s best to use full manual mode for street shots. So it’s not perfect, but the A6100 comes close to travel perfection, offering good value, robust features and an easy-to-use look.

6- Fujifilm X-T30

The compact system is extremely stylish and ideal for travel

Sensor: APS-C, 26.1MP | Lens mount: X mount | Screen: 3-inch tilting touchscreen, 1,040,000 dots | Viewfinder: EVF | Continuous shooting: 30fps | Movies: 4K | User level: Medium

For those happy to carry a compact camera, the Fujifilm X-T30 is one of our favorites, and a device that makes a lot of sense as a travel camera. By drawing out many of the best items for its older, bigger and more expensive brother, the X-T3 in delightfully small form, the X-T30 will help you get stunning visuals while looking amazing. There are plenty of lenses available for the Fuji X system, so you’ll be spoiled for choice, while 4K video recording, inclined touchscreen, and HD EVF complete the spec sheet.

7- Nikon Z50

The ultimate ‘mini DSLR’ for travel photography

Sensor: 21MP APS-C CMOS | Lens: 16-50mm, f / 3.5-5.6 | Screen: 3.0  » touchscreen, 1,040,000 dots tilt angle | Viewfinder: EVF | Continuous shooting: 11 fps | Movies: 4K 30fps | User level: Medium

The Nikon Z50 is a great choice if you love Nikon and are looking for your first «  right  » camera. It works well as a travel camera and has a very comfortable button design. The 3.2-inch screen can also flip under the body to create completely first-class selfies, though it and a tripod compete for space. At this point, a few lenses are specifically designed for the Z50’s DX format, but the range will naturally expand over time and you can also use those designed for Nikon’s full frame. We prefer the Sony A6500 for high speed action photography, but it’s a good value camera overall that is fun to use.

8- Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV

Expensive, but in a league of its own – perhaps the ultimate travel companion

Sensor: 1-inch type, 20.2 megapixels | Lens: 24-600mm, f / 2.4-4 | Screen: 3 inch tilting touch screen, 1.44m dot | Viewfinder: EVF | Continuous shooting: 24fps | Movies: 4K | User Level: Intermediate / Expert

In terms of offering something for everyone, the RX10 IV ticks a lot of the boxes. It’s like having a bag full of goals, but with the added bonus of not having to change it. There is a very long zoom, while the maximum aperture is very wide throughout the lens. The sensor might not be as large as what you might find on a DSLR / CSC, but Sony’s one-inch 20.1-megapixel one turns out to be quite capable nonetheless. You also get 24fps shooting, 4K video quality, and handling that rivals that of a DSLR. The main drawback? High Price – If you’re on a tight budget, don’t forget this camera’s predecessor, the RX10 III.

9- Fujifilm X100V

Compact, specialized yet upscale, perfect for the street

Sensor: 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS | Lens: 23mm, f / 2 | Screen: 3-inch tilt-angle touch screen, 1.62 m | Viewfinder: EVF | Continuous shooting: 11fps (mechanical), 30fps (electronic) | Movies: 4K | User level: Medium

An advanced compact camera with a design inspired by analog cameras from the 1950s and a fixed 23mm f / 2 lens? It looks like the definition of the same standing. However, far from an anachronism, Fujifilm X100V is one of the best travel cameras you can buy.

For starters, it takes the small form factor that made the X100F before it was very convenient to hold and adds a very useful tilting touchscreen. The advantages are the support for gestures and the ease of shooting at narrow angles.

Inside, a new 26.1MP sensor and X-Processor 4 translate into autofocus, image quality and high ISO performance, based on what was already an experiment. Great photography with a fixed aperture lens. Add the ability to shoot 4K / 30p footage on the go, along with a high-definition hybrid electronic viewfinder, and you’ve got a suitably capable pocket artist – provided you’re happy to pay a premium.

10- Panasonic G100

Great travel camera with viewfinder for video and photo

Type: Mirror | Sensor Size: Micro Four Third | Resolution: 20.3MP | Goal: Micro Four Thirds | Viewfinder: EVF, 3.69 million dots | Screen type: 3 inch variable angle touch screen, 1.84 m dot | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 10 frames per second (electronic shutter), 6 fps (mechanical) | Movies: 4K / 30/25 / 24p, FHD / 60p / 50/30/25 / 24p | User level: Beginner / Intermediate

If you are looking for a versatile travel camera with a built-in viewfinder and the ability to swap lenses to suit different situations, the new Panasonic G100 is worth checking out.

Significantly smaller than the Panasonic G95 / G90, this Micro Four Thirds shooting is a great travel camera with a strong vlogging focus. If you’re primarily looking to shoot videos, the Sony ZV-1 (below) is definitely smaller and worth a watch, but the great thing about the G100 is that it includes an impressive 3.69 million-dot electronic viewfinder (which is very useful for shooting in bright light) It is the first mirrorless camera equipped with Nokia Ozo sound technology.

Combining this with the G100’s three-microphone setup means it does a great job of isolating sounds in loud environments, which is great for videographers who don’t want to sneak around with external microphones. It also has a fully articulated touchscreen and a 20.3-megapixel four-thirds sensor that takes great photos.

The downsides are that this sensor is not as powerful in low light as alternatives like the Nikon Z50 or Fujifilm X-T30 (see above), while the G100 also lacks USB-C charging and a headphone port. But aside from these shortcomings, it’s a nice travel camera that takes advantage of the wide lens array in the Micro Four Thirds system.

11- Sony ZV-1

Great vlog camera for travel

Type: Compressed | Sensor size: 1 inch | Resolution: 20.1MP | Lens: 24-70mm f / 1.8-2.8 | Screen type: 3-inch variable angle touch screen 921,600 dots | Viewfinder: None | Maximum continuous shooting rate: 24fps | Movies: 4K / 30p | User level: Beginner / Intermediate

If you want to shoot travel videos instead of still photos, the Sony ZV-1 is the best pocket option. It combines the best video oriented features of the Sony RX100 series and adds the latest autofocus system, which is the best you can find in a compact camera. The lack of an electronic viewfinder means the ZV-1 is less suitable for still shots than the RX100 VII (see # 4), but it’s still a smartphone backup thanks to its 20.1MP sensor 1. Thumb. This is the video that the ZV-1 really shines in, with its bright 24-70mm f / 1.8-2.8 lens and Real-time Eye AF, perfect for shooting professional vlogging on smartphones. The 3.5mm microphone jack also means you can get decent video quality audio as well, while the built-in hot shoe is handy to help you mount the accessories.

12- Fujifilm X-T200

An entry-level camera with video and camera lens skills

Sensor: 12 megapixels, 1 / 2.3 « | Lens: 24-75mm f / 1.7-2.8 | Screen: 2.0  » fixed touch screen | Viewfinder: NA | Continuous shooting: 30fps | Movies: 4K 60fps | User Level: Beginner / Intermediate / Expert | Sensor: 24.2MP APS-C CMOS | Target: Unavailable | Screen: 3.5-inch variable-angle touch screen, 2.78 m | Viewfinder: 2.36 m OLED EVF | Continuous shooting: 8 fps | Movies: 4K / 30p | User level: Beginner

Fujifilm’s X-series entry-level model is a huge improvement over its predecessor. While it cannot compete with the more expensive X-T30 (see above), the elegant X-T200 is a versatile and accessible option for aircraft makers. The APS-C CMOS sensor and processor have been upgraded, enabling 8fps continuous shooting and the ability to shoot 4K images at 30fps. There’s also a new « digital gimbal » that cleverly stabilizes video, but only up to 1080p. Physically, the X-T200 retains the old shape of the X-T100, while providing a more firm and comfortable grip. The touchscreen has also been upgraded to 3.5 inches, but at the expense of its comfortable joystick placement. Viewfinder enthusiasts will appreciate the crisp OLED EVF viewfinder, although an unreliable eye sensor often makes the screen a more attractive option for framing. When it comes to image results, the dynamic range is good and color reproduction is excellent, with the help of a 256-zone metering system, with great detail and adequate noise handling. Subject tracking is not available for video, but the Hybrid AF system works well when shooting still photos, with accurate face detection. Easy to use but able to deliver great results, the X-T200 ticks many more boxes for travelers.

How to choose the best travel camera for you

Need more advice on how to choose the right type of travel camera? Consider the following options:

Built-in zoom for travel

These small pocket cameras give you great capabilities to photograph many different types of subjects, using a zoom lens that brings you closer to the action, while giving you the ability to shoot beautifully and spaciously. Usually the trade-off for getting all this in a sleek, compact size is a smaller sensor that’s less useful for low-light photography.

Compact Premium

If you want to stay easy to use, but are happy with the loss of super zoom, consider the premium compact. These usually have an inch sensor for better image quality, but they usually have a shorter zoom. Some might give you both, but you will pay a high price.

Bridge Camera

The bridge camera is a larger option than the standard compact camera, but with a better zoom range, a bridge camera is also ideal for those who like more intuitive and comfortable handling. They usually have a firm grip, decent electronic viewfinder, and a flexible screen. You get a lot of benefits from owning a bag full of lenses, but without the extra luggage.

Mirrorless / built-in camera system

This is the option if you want the best possible image quality and are in some trouble. With so many different lenses to choose from, you can pack different optics according to the type of flight you’re taking, or pack a good all-round lens and don’t worry too much about switching optics. You will also benefit from the best possible management, as well as many advanced options.

Many of the compact system cameras currently on the market are designed specifically for travel – and are as small as possible. We’ve included some of the best options here.

If you are still not sure which type of camera you need, see our step-by-step guide: Which Camera Should I Buy? Alternatively, if you’re going by the pool or at the beach, you might want something a little more solid – in that case take a look at our top waterproof cameras and our best camera guides from the business.

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