Even though more advanced digital cameras have taken over the market, point-and-shoot cameras for video are still widely popular and useful. There are several factors one should take into account before choosing the best camera for video, but one area where point-and-shoot cameras still dominate is their compact size. They can easily fit into your pocket and offer a lot of versatility, which is amazing for the people who often go out for traveling or camping. Likewise, they are solidly built and can withstand harsh treatment.
Next is the quality of the footage and resolution. Do you need a 4K video capture, or can you settle with FHD or 1080p resolution (which is still popular as it not only is cheaper but also supported by many playback devices)? Similarly, the frame rate is an important factor that a video camera offers. For instance, you would prefer 60 fps over 15 fps, regardless of the resolution.
Lastly, a good point-and-shoot camera for video should also include some extra features (other than basic features such as a sensor, processor, etc.) like a Wi-Fi or NFC connectivity option, an optical zoom, app support, and more.
Let’s have a look at some of the best point-and-shoot cameras that made it to our list and can offer an incredible video capturing experience.
1. Panasonic LUMIX LX10
The Panasonic LUMIX LX10 is equipped with a 20.1MP, powerful sensor that delivers top-quality shots with a great amount of detail. In addition, it has a decent f-stop range that ensures a beautiful bokeh.
Like many top-end DSLR cameras, it boasts a 4K video capturing system with great exposure control and focus accuracy. You can record 4K at 30 fps and Full HD videos at up to 120 fps. The camera includes a DFD feature as well, which measures the focus distance and effectively locks on to subjects to deliver videos without any blur.
A post focus option has been added that enables you to refocus your stills and videos after the capture. With the features this camera has, you get a pretty fair deal for your money.
2. Sony RX100 III
When it comes to style, there are very few cameras like the Sony RX100 III. Although the camera features a compact design, it packs a big, one-inch sensor with EXMOR CMOS technology, which has 20.1MP of resolution. Moreover, the 24mm wide-angle lens on this camera allows you to capture high-quality architectural and landscape shots, without having the need to zoom out much.
It only includes a 2.9x optical zoom for close-up shots, but the camera won’t compromise on the overall quality and detail. You get a built-in electronic viewfinder and an LCD screen with a 180-degree tilting angle that gives you enough freedom to get creative.
As for video recording, the RX100 III supports a 1080p video capture at up to 60 fps. Although it’s the pricier option on our list, if you need a compact point-and-shoot camera for video that packs some serious punch, this is the camera for you.
3. Ricoh GR II
The Ricoh GR II is another portable and lightweight option on our list. It can capture excellent 1080 full HD footage at up to 30 fps. You can save your files in different file formats such as DNG, RAW, or JPEG. It gives you more control and makes the editing process easier. The camera saves movies in MPEG-4 AVC format.
With a 19.6MP sensor, the camera produces excellent quality images. It uses a fixed lens with a wider aperture, which is not zoom-compatible, however, it’s the main reason many of the high-end lenses achieve top-notch results.
Furthermore, you get a built-in flash on the camera. Like the other great cameras on the market, the Ricoh GR II provides all the basic elements and helps you get creative with optimal control if you can ignore the zoom feature. All in all, it’s undoubtedly one of the best point-and-shoot cameras for video.
4. Fujifilm X100T
In terms of style, nothing can beat this camera from Fujifilm. With its traditional dials, the Fujifilm X100T makes it easy for you to personalize the shot. Therefore, the combination of style and functionality makes it one of the best point-and-shoot cameras.
The optical viewfinder accurately measures focal points and focus areas and helps you effectively adjust the picture controls. Images with excellent quality are captured by a 16.3MP sensor and the camera’s ISO sensitivity of up to 51,200 means it serves as a good low-light camera, as well.
Moving on to the video quality, the X100T supports 1080p video capture at up to 60 fps. It features a three-inch LCD monitor for easy accessibility to a lot of camera operations. Overall, the Fujifilm X100T is a very capable camera and is jam-packed with features. Check out our full review of the Fujifilm X100T to learn more.
5. Canon PowerShot SX720 HS (Budget Winner)
The Canon PowerShot SX720 HS features a sleek design and offers a ton of features, all at a very reasonable price point. If you need a point-and-shoot camera that is powerful enough to give you the desired results without burning a hole in your pocket, this is the camera for you.
It comes with a 40x optical zoom and has a built-in flash and an optical image stabilization system. The three-inch LCD helps you get a clear shot and gives a nice, clear playback for your images.
The camera makes use of a 20MP sensor to produce results with great quality. Its best-quality movie mode is 1080p and up to 60 fps. ISO can be stretched up to 3200 or you can use Auto mode. There are several shooting modes and photo effects to try and get creative with your photography. We talk about those in our Canon PowerShot SX720 HS review.
Finding the Point-and-Shoot Cameras for Video that Meet Your Needs
These point-and-shoot cameras for video can give you an incredible video shooting experience. The list includes popular cameras from top brands and addresses almost all the budget needs. All the options presented here are very capable and loaded with a lot of exciting features. We hope you will find the best match for your needs after going through the list.
