The best cameras under $250 shouldn’t compromise on important features like image quality or durability. Despite the low price, it is possible to find good cameras that can take attractive photos and videos without feeling cheap. Our top pick with all these features is Amazon’s Canon Powers hot SX620. It is a versatile camera with a fixed optical zoom, a compact design and can record 1080p video at 30 fps.
For other affordable options, check out our list of the best digital cameras under $200. They don’t all have the same features as the cameras on this list, but there are plenty of high-quality options as well. For everyone else, read on to see the best cameras under $250.
Best Overall: Canon Powers hot SX620 HS
When you’re trying to find the most versatile camera option for around $250, you need to tick some boxes. First, it should have a decent optical zoom, so you can shoot up close and far. Second, it needs to be relatively compact, as many budget camera buyers prefer a camera that doesn’t need to be carried in a camera bag. The Canon Powers hot SX620 HS ticks these boxes and more.
The Canon Powers hot SX620 HS has an impressive 25x optical zoom with intelligent image stabilization and can handle low-light photos with a 20.2-megapixel CMOS sensor. Measuring 2.3 x 5.7 x 6.3 inches and weighing just 0.38 pounds, it’s easy to carry whether you’re going to work or the beach.
For videos, it captures 1080p HD footage at 30 frames per second, and both videos and photos can be viewed directly on the device’s 3-inch LCD screen. This camera can also send images directly to your smartphone via Wi-Fi or NFC.
Best Zoom: Canon Powers hot SX420 IS
Depending on what you are shooting, zoom can play a very important role for photographers. For example, if you are a wildlife photographer, you need a good zoom lens to get a close-up of a bird without scaring it. Or if you’re shooting sports, you’ll need a zoom lens for action shots because you’re not allowed on the field.
Canon Powers hot SX420 IS is the right camera for effective zooming on a small budget. It has a 42x optical zoom (24-1008mm) and a 24mm wide-angle lens that allows for beautiful landscapes, portraits or whatever. The camera’s 20-megapixel CCD sensor gives you great detail and color, and everything can be viewed in an instant on the camera’s 3-inch LCD screen. And you can send photos directly to your smartphone or tablet via Wi-Fi and NFC, so you can post your new family photo directly to Facebook and Instagram.
Reviewers of the device gave the camera high marks for its excellent zoom and ease of use. They recommend avoiding digital zoom and using optical zoom for the best photos.
Best Waterproof: Nikon Coolpix W100
Designed with families in mind, the Nikon Coolpix W100 is a waterproof camera with great looks and excellent performance. Without a huge number of external controls, the 13.2 megapixel W100 CMOS sensor (for powerful low-light shooting) is easy to use, regardless of your age or skill level. With an IP6X rating, the Nikon Coolpix W100 is resistant to dust, water (up to 30 feet), and shock (up to six feet), and can operate in environments as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit.
The key to using the camera is the four-way navigation button, which allows you to choose the appropriate shooting mode and control the 3x optical and 6x digital zoom. The 2.7-inch display with a 230,000-pixel resolution fits snugly into the W100’s 4.4 x 2.7 x 1.5-inch frame, which is pocket-sized for use on the go. Transferring photos from the W100 is also easy thanks to Nikon’s Snap bridge technology, which connects to Nikon’s smartphone app via Wi-Fi, NFC or Bluetooth.
Best Compact: Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-WX220
This compact point-and-shoot features an 18.2-megapixel CMOS sensor for capturing beautiful images in low light and records video up to 1080p at 60 frames per second. Just the right size to fit comfortably in a front pocket or small bag, the Sony measures just 3.6 x 0.9 x 2 inches and weighs just 4.3 ounces. Due to its small size, the lens with 10x optical zoom and 20x Clear Image digital zoom is just as close to you.
Best action camera: GoPro HERO7 Black
The GoPro HERO7 Black is an excellent durable action camera capable of capturing high quality videos and photos. Thanks to its durable and waterproof construction, you can take it anywhere, up to 10 meters underwater, and it can take 12MP photos and 4K videos at 60 fps. It is also capable of 720p streaming with Hyper Smooth stabilization, which makes it a great camera for logging. It is Time Warp capable, allowing stabilized time-lapse videos perfect for posting to Instagram or Facebook, and even supports voice commands in multiple languages.
Final judgement
The best camera under $ 250 is undoubtedly the Canon Powers hot SX620 HS (see on Amazon), a 20.2 megapixel camera with 25x optical zoom. It is also capable of playing 1080p video at 30 fps and is compact. As another option, we like the Canon Powers Hot SX530 HS (see on Amazon), it’s a solid 16MP camera that comes with a handy package that includes an SD card, cover, and other accessories.
What to look for in a camera
Lens Included – All of these models have built-in lenses, but the glass in front varies. Note the optical zoom and lens distance information. If you plan to photograph your child’s wildlife or sporting events, choose a camera that can see from different distances.
Video Features – If you plan to record video, consider the quality of the recording. videos recorded in high definition at least 1080p offer the best clarity during playback.
Portability: Take the camera with you to a football match or on vacation? Consider the size and potential use. While a superzoom camera is great for taking great shots from afar, you might not want to do it for a five-hour hike.
FAQ
How important is resolution?
Resolution is a general measure of the number of pixels that make up an image, so it’s a good indicator of the sharpness / brightness of the image, and it really depends on what you’re shooting and for what purpose. For amateurs, especially those on a tight budget, it’s not a big deal, but for professionals who want to impress their clients with gorgeous footage, high resolution is absolutely essential.
What features do i need?
Again, this largely depends on the usage situation, but most photos benefit from a high-quality zoom, a large, clear viewfinder for previewing the action, and manual controls for balance, exposure and setting. On fire.
What are the best camera brands?
While the competition for cameras is intensifying, there are several brands with established pedigrees. These brands tend to offer reliable, high-quality cameras backed by generous warranties and customer service and include manufacturers such as Canon, Nikon, DJI, and Panasonic.