Digital cameras might seem archaic today, but that is an odd truth. It shouldn’t be. Every modern smartphone has a decent enough camera to last you a while unless your goal is professional or amateur photography. Who’s to say that a digital camera in 2021 is a bad deal?
06/01/2021, Saxony Dresden: The evening’s display of a digital reflex camera shows the motif of the abandoned Bruhl Terrace, in front of the Academy of Fine Arts. (shot with long exposure time) Photo: Robert Michael/dpa-Zentralbild/ZB
This guide will cover the top digital cameras you can purchase in 2021. You will also learn which camera type you should choose based on your specific needs and desires. Continue reading.
Digital Camera Options for Beginners
Although an entry-level point-and-shoot digital camera may not be affordable, it is a great starting point for anyone who is just getting started in digital photography. A point-and-shoot camera doesn’t require you to be an expert at setting up settings. It’s in the name: point-and-shoot.
Start by avoiding anything under $100 that is sold at retail stores selling no-name brands. Anything above $100 will get you an entry-level unit of a well-respected brand such as Canon, Nikon, and Fujifilm. According to PCMag, even their cheapest ones are equipped with the hardware you wouldn’t find on the highest-end smartphone cameras. These zoom lenses are great if you want to capture subjects close up with good quality.
Their only drawback is the aging CCD sensors that reduce video quality to just 720p. They are only suitable for still images, not videos. To get the most out of your money, go up the $200-$400 price range and opt for something like a Canon EOS RP, which is one of the best entry-level point-and-shoot models in the market, according to DPReview.
Digital Camera for Intermediate Users
You’re probably familiar with digital cameras like DSLRs and how heavy they can be. You can reduce the size of your digital camera while still being able to swap lenses with a premium compact model. You should expect to spend a lot of money, even for the smallest models, which can cost as high as $1,300.
Don’t let the compact size fool you. Specific models such as the Sony RX 100 VI can support gigantic zoom lenses for those ultra-close ups that you’ll never, ever be able to achieve with a smartphone. The Sony RX100 VII or the Panasonic ZS200 are two options to start with when looking for the best models.
Best Cameras for Traveling
COVID-19 limits make traveling a distant dream. The world is improving and travel borders are opening up slowly. When the pandemic is over, you’ll need to be prepared to travel again.
A compact camera that does not compromise image quality is the best option for globetrotting photographers. Fujifilm’s Instax Mini 11 Instant Camera is a great pick for starters. This model is great for travel photography as it lets you take better photos in six different lighting conditions. The Instax Mini 11 can handle any lighting conditions, no matter how sunny or overcast.