Zoom is a feature that is often desired in a digital camera, but with mirrorless cameras, DSLR cameras, and similar options, a great zoom function can also be exceptionally expensive. This is where bridge cameras come in, offering you an excellent zoom function, while also providing the other features that photographers rely on.
In this post, we look at the best bridge cameras on the market that gives you everything you need in one device.
1. Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV
Our top selection when it comes to looking at the best bridge cameras on the market would be the Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV. This one does come at a high price though – you can pick up the Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV for around $1,600.
Even though the camera is expensive, the features are outstanding and perfect for the serious photographer. The device features an impressive Auto-Focus timing of just 0.03 seconds, along with a 25x Optical Zoom function, which is certainly something that outdoor photographers will appreciate. The RX10 IV also offers optical image stabilization and is great for low-light conditions as well.
2. Nikon COOLPIX P1000
If your budget allows you to spend up to $1,000, then be sure to look out for the Nikon COOLPIX P1000. The camera comes with an impressive 24-3000mm Lens, along with an aperture range of f/2.8-8. The Nikon COOLPIX P1000 is equipped with a 16MP BSI CMOS Sensor, along with an EXPEED Image Processor to ensure your photographs will always look great.
The camera is also able to provide you with 4K UHD video recording functionality and is fully compatible with SnapBridge. Both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity modules are installed in the camera for easily wireless accessibility. There are four different modes that can be easily adjusted according to the scene you are capturing.
3. Sony Cyber-shot RX10 III
If you enjoy the technology provided by Sony’s range of high-quality cameras, but you do not want to spend more than $1,000, then the Sony Cyber-shot RX10 III might be a good option for you. This camera comes at an affordable price and offers a range of convenient features, including a 25x Optical Zoom functionality and 4K video recording capability.
The RX10 III also features a one-inch Exmor RS CMOS sensor that is capable of taking photos at a 20.1MP resolution. The camera is also equipped with an HFR function that allows for slow-motion video recording with support for frame rates as high as 960 fps.
4. Canon PowerShot SX70 HS
The Canon PowerShot SX70 HS is what we would like to think of as a balanced product. You get a high-quality bridge camera that comes with all the functionality you expect a good camera to offer you, but you are still able to pick the device up for less than $500.
The camera features a built-in three-inch LCD screen that can be tilted according to your preferences. You also get up to 65x Optical Zoom, which is one of the most impressive optical zoom functions that we noted on the market at the moment. The camera comes with 4K video recording and a 20.3MP sensor for taking still photos.
5. Panasonic LUMIX DC-FZ80
Here’s another good option from the Panasonic brand when looking for the best bridge cameras. The Panasonic LUMIX DC-FZ80 4K digital camera comes with a 60x Optical Zoom function and is equipped with a DC VARIO 20-1200mm lens. The camera features an aperture range of f/2.8-5.9 and comes with the brand’s unique POWER O.I.S image stabilization technology.
A built-in display unit features touch functionality to ensure you can easily navigate the menus and configure the device. The LUMIX DC-FZ80 also comes with built-in Wi-Fi technology. This device is able to record 4K video content, and it features a CMOS sensor that can take photos with a resolution of 18.1MP.
6. Nikon COOLPIX P900
The Nikon COOLPIX P900 is a bundled bridge camera that focuses on giving you maximum value for your money. At just over $500, you get a complete package that does include not only the main camera, but also a carry bag, camera stand, 64GB memory card, two additional batteries, and more.
The COOLPIX P900 features 83x Optical Zoom, making this a definite addition to our list of the best bridge cameras. The device features a 16MP CMOS Sensor and comes equipped with a 24-2000mm 35mm lens. The device also features Dual Detect Optical VR technology, along with a built-in electronic viewfinder.
7. Minolta M35Z
The Minolta M35Z is a digital bridge camera that flaunts many fantastic features; its powerful SLR-style autofocus system will help you snap the perfect shot with absolute clarity, while its 20MP camera can capture sharp still shots, and its 1080p HD video recording can shoot videos while perfectly capturing every movement, no matter how subtle.
The M35Z has a 3.0 inch LCD screen with a 460k resolution, allowing for vivid image viewing. It also contains a 25mm wide-angle lens with both mechanical and optical stabilization, allowing for remarkably stable, clear images.
This device comes with Wi-Fi connectivity, enabling direct data sharing to and from a smartphone or PC. It also flaunts an up to 35x zoom capacity, allowing for flawless close-up shots from far away while still maintaining superior image quality. In addition to this, the M35Z can shoot in panorama mode, HDR, multi-frame, and also has smart face detection for simplified photography.
8. Kodak PIXPRO AZ652 Astro Zoom
Kodak is a well-reputed name in the camera industry, and makes some of the most remarkable bridge cameras available in the market; the PIXPRO AZ625 is no exception to this rule! This camera can capture images with up to a 65x optical zoom capacity, allowing you to capture remarkably refined shots from far away or close-up shots of small subjects; it also supports 5fps burst shooting and has an electronic viewfinder.
The AZ652 has a 24mm wide-angle lens and offers 720p video recording with HD performance for superior recordings. It also supports Wi-Fi connectivity, making it remarkably easy to share data from this camera across multiple devices.
Additionally, the Kodak PIXPRO AZ652 Astro Zoom has the ability to generate both JPEG and RAW images; either file type is used for a different purpose, and photographers are bound to appreciate the option to choose between both. It contains a three-inch LCD screen that extends out of the device and can be rotated, too, allowing for selfies as well as regular photography.
9. Canon PowerShot SX60 HS
Canon’s PowerShot SX60 HS is a force to be reckoned with; this device offers up to 65x zoom for both far-away photography and spectacular close-up shots. This camera also has a 16.1MP resolution for still photography with commendable results.
The SX60 contains a ½.3 inch high-sensitivity CMOS sensor combines with the DIGIC 6 image processor that yields sharp, vivid, and powerful imagery. This device’s optical image stabilizer guarantees that no shot will ever come out blurry; instead, every snap taken through the SX60 promises to maintain crystal-clear high definition.
The SX60 can record videos that are up to 30 minutes long, each, and does so with its 1080p HD video option; this high resolution yields excellent graphics and can capture every movement made by the subject, flawlessly. It also contains a 3.0 inch LCD vari-angle screen and an electronic viewfinder for convenient shooting.
10. Panasonic LUMIX FZ300 (Budget Winner)
If you need something that will be more suitable for a lower budget, then consider the Panasonic LUMIX FZ300 long zoom digital camera. You can currently pick up this bridge camera for less than $400, and it comes with a range of features that will make your photography experience more pleasant. The device is both dust and splash-proof, making this the perfect companion for outdoor scenery.
The LUMIX FZ300 comes with a 1/2.3 inch sensor and is capable of recording video in 4K resolution. The camera also has the ability to capture still photos in 12.1 megapixels and comes with a Leica DC 24X F2.8 Zoom Lens, providing a significant advantage when it comes to zooming in on the action.
Choosing the Best Bridge Camera
Bridge cameras are often utilized by photographers who need a better zoom on a smaller budget, but there are many of these cameras on the market. Choosing the right one can be hard. We shared the best bridge cameras that you can choose from at the moment to help you avoid disappointment and make the right choice when it comes to getting your hands on one of these portable devices.
