10 Best Digital Cameras

Smartphone or digital camera? A camera to capture special moments or vacation trips is invaluable, even though many smartphones today take good quality pictures. The phone lacks the technical equipment and many additional functions of a good camera. Compared to the best digital cameras, the image sensor is small and underexposed. And they usually don't have analog zooms that can clearly capture details from a distance. For people who love photography, mobile devices cannot replace still cameras.

Digital camera manufacturers have further developed their devices: Today, cameras can be connected wirelessly to smartphones, computers, or printers. Some manufacturers offer their own apps that smartphones can use as remote controls for cameras. The device takes photos quickly, with great detail and in high resolution. And digital photography doesn't have to be expensive: Compact cameras for beginners are readily available for cheap.

We compare the 10 best digital cameras from different price ranges and provide information on the most important features of the models. The following guide explains how digital cameras work, what types are available and what consumers should consider before making a purchase.

The 10 best high-resolution digital cameras in a big comparison

1. Sony DSC W830 . digital camera

• Model name Sony DSC-W810
• Compact form factor
• Skill level specialist
• HD special features
• Basic, Fine, Normal JPEG quality levels
• Auto white balance setting
• Zoom lens type
• Age range (description) All ages

The Sony DSC W830 has a 7.76mm image sensor and takes photos at 20.1 megapixels. The camera works with permanently integrated Zeiss lenses with a focal length range of 4.5 to 36 millimeters. For long distance shooting, this camera offers 8x optical and 64x digital zoom. The compact camera does not have an analog viewfinder. The photographer views the subject on a 6.7 cm screen with five brightness levels. Sony digital cameras record video in 720p quality.

• Light intensity: F 3.3 to 6.3
• ISO sensitivity: 80 to 3200 for photos and 250 to 1250 for video
• Interface: Multi-AV, USB, SD memory card

The Sony DSC-W830 has an intelligent mode that automatically adjusts settings to the shooting conditions. That should make it a good choice for beginners. Equipped with a SteadyShot image stabilizer. According to the manufacturer, the stabilizer reduces the effects of minor movement and vibration by automatically realigning lens components. The digital camera has a 360-degree sweeping panorama mode, automatic image rotation and red-eye correction.

The Sony digital camera from our comparison is completely black with a brushed surface. It measures 9.3 x 5.2 x 2.2 centimeters and weighs 120 grams including battery and memory card.

What is the difference between optical and digital zoom? Cameras with optical zoom achieve subject magnification by sliding the camera lens. They act like a magnifying glass. When using digital zoom, the camera automatically counts pixels for an enlarged representation, meaning the resolution decreases. If you value high image quality, an optical zoom with the same zoom power is a better choice.

Advantages

• Zeiss lens
• 8x optical zoom
• High photo resolution
• SteadyShot image stabilizer
• Intelligent auto mode

Deficiency

• No optical viewfinder

2. Canon PowerShot SX620 HS . digital camera

• Canon PowerShot SX620 HS digital camera model name - black
• Compact form factor
• Skill level specialist
• Basic JPEG quality level, good, normal
• Auto white balance setting
• Zoom lens type
• Continuous shooting speed 10 fps
• Item weight 0.18 kilograms

The Canon PowerShot SX620 HS digital camera is a small compact camera with some technical finesse. Convincing technical data:

• Photos with up to 21.1 megapixels
• Videos in full HD resolution with 1,920 x 1,080 pixels
• Optical zoom 25x
• Digital zoom 50x
• Lens shift system image stabilizer
• Auto focus with face detection
• ISO sensitivity 80 to 3,200
• High-speed continuous shooting at 7.1 frames per second (at 5.0 megapixels)

All settings and all recordings can be viewed on the 3-inch LC screen. Red-eye correction, intelligent orientation sensor, and self-timer are also some of the features of the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS digital camera. The camera can be connected to a computer via USB. An HDMI interface is available for connecting to a television or monitor.

Another special feature is the option of wireless connection via WLAN and NFC it makes it easy to connect the camera to a compatible printer so you can print photos directly. Rechargeable batteries and suitable chargers are included in the delivery scope. With the battery you can take up to 295 photos, in ECO mode even up to 405 photos. Bag not included.

Various modes such as hybrid auto, creative shot, special scene mode, portrait, night shot, fish-eye effect, miniature effect, monochrome, poster effect, or fireworks add variety to the shot. Photo effects such as strong, neutral, sepia, slide film, strong blue, green or red can be set directly from the camera. The built-in flash with a range of up to 4 meters provides light, it is possible to connect an external flash unit.

What is the use of GPS for digital cameras? With smartphones, the GPS function is used for navigation. Digital cameras use GPS to tag images with metadata about geographic locations. Metadata is image information that can be useful when taking photos. By entering keywords, city or region names, photos with metadata can be easily found and organized.

Advantages

• Optical zoom 25x
• Various effects and modes
• Full HD Videos
• WLAN, HDMI and NFC

Deficiency

• No bag

3. Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 . digital camera

• Model name Canon EOS 77D
• Form factor bridge
• Skill level specialist
• Special features Autofocus with DFD (Depth From Defocus) technology, Post Focus, Focus Stacking
• Basic JPEG quality level, good, normal
• Auto white balance setting
• Fixed lens type
• Continuous shooting speed 60 fps

The Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82 is a classic digital camera. This camera takes photos with 18.9 megapixels and an image sensor in 1/2.3 inch format. The built-in Lumix DC Vario super wide-angle lens has a focal length of 20 to 1,200 millimeters. There is an optical viewfinder and a 7.5 cm screen for capturing subjects. The screen has an anti-reflective coating to reduce distracting light reflections. Video can be recorded with Panasonic cameras in 4K quality at 3,840 x 2160 pixels.

• Aperture: F2.8 to 5.9
• ISO sensitivity: 80 to 3200
• Interface: Mini HDMI, Multi USB, AV

With super zoom: The manufacturer calls the camera model super zoom. It achieves up to 60x optical zoom and 4x digital zoom range. The extended optical zoom ranges from 75.8x to 135x. You have to take into account that the resolution of the photo decreases as the zoom increases.

The Panasonic LUMIX DMC has a pop-up flash and can save photos in a variety of formats - JPEG, RAW and DPOF. Digital cameras are equipped with stereo microphones which are supposed to provide high quality sound for video recording. The camera offers a panorama function for landscape shots. This allows photos to be taken with a very wide aspect ratio.

The digital camera from our comparison is completely black. Equipped with an ergonomic gripping surface, it is larger than an ordinary digital camera. It measures 13.0 x 9.4 x 11.9 centimeters. Without batteries and memory cards, this digital camera weighs 616 grams.

What is extended zoom? Extended zoom is when the camera achieves a larger zoom by reducing the resolution of the photo. With an extended optical zoom of 135, photos appear less high-resolution than the normal optical zoom of 135.

Advantages

• Super wide angle lens
• Videos in 4K resolution
• Super zoom
• Optical viewfinder
• Folding flashlight
• Various image formats including RAW
• Stereo microphone

Deficiency

• Annoying light reflections according to Amazon shoppers

4. Sony DSC WX350 . digital camera

• Model name Sony DSC-WX350
• Compact form factor
• Skill level specialist
• Special features of serial shooting mode
• Basic JPEG quality level, good, normal
• Lens type zoom
• Item weight 164 grams
• Zoom type optics

The Sony DSC WX350 digital camera has a 1/2.3-inch format image sensor and takes photos at 18.2 megapixels. The permanently integrated G lens offers focal lengths between 4.3 and 86 millimeters. The camera works with 20x optical zoom and up to 306x digital zoom. Not equipped with an optical viewfinder. Instead, the camera has a 7.5-centimeter screen with five brightness levels. It records videos in Full HD quality with a pixel count of 1,920 x 1,080.

• Light intensity: F3.5 to 6.5
• ISO sensitivity: 100 to 12,800 for photos and 80 to 2,000 for video
• Interface: micro-HDMI, micro-USB, memory card

This compact camera from Sony supports WLAN and NFC. It has a mechanical image stabilizer, panorama function, and red-eye correction and a BIONZ-X processor. According to the manufacturer, the processor ensures automatic image optimization and image noise reduction. Image noise is a decrease in image quality regardless of image content.

The Sony DSC WX350 has a compact all-black design. It measures 9.6 x 5.4 x 2.6 centimeters and weighs 164 grams including battery and memory card.

Advantages

• 20x optical zoom
• Mechanical image stabilizer
• NFC enabled
• WiFi enabled
• Automatic image optimization

Deficiency

• No optical viewfinder

5. Sony DSC HX60 . Digital Camera

• Model name Sony DSC-HX60
• Compact form factor
• Skill level specialist
• Special features of serial shooting mode
• Basic JPEG quality level
• Beach shooting mode, fireworks, night portrait, portrait, snow, landscape
• Adult age range (description)
• Continuous shooting speed 30 fps

If you choose the Sony DSC HX60, you get a digital camera with 20.4 megapixels and an image sensor in 1/2.3 inch format. It has a G lens with a focal length of 4.3 to 129 millimeters. The camera achieves 30x optical zoom and 486x digital zoom. It has no optical viewfinder and is equipped with a 7.5 centimeter screen with five brightness levels. The camera records videos with a Full HD resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 pixels.

• Light intensity: F3.5 to 6.3
• ISO sensitivity: 30 to 3200 for photos and 80 to 2000 for video
• Interface: micro HDMI, micro USB, SD and micro SD memory card

With TRILUMINOS™ color technology: Digital cameras work with the TRILUMINOS™ color function, which, according to the manufacturer, ensures vivid, true-to-life colors in photos.

The compact camera from Sony has a multi-interface accessory shoe. This is the connector on the top that is used to connect various accessories sold separately - for example a microphone or flash attachment on a hot shoe. To optimize images and reduce image noise, digital cameras are equipped with the BIONZ-X processor. It has NFC, WLAN, panorama function and red eye correction. Built-in foldable flash for taking pictures in the dark.

The Sony DSC HX60 is completely black and features an ergonomically shaped gripping surface. It measures 10.8 x 6.3 x 3.8 centimeters and weighs 272 grams including battery and memory card.

Advantages

• 30x optical zoom
• TRILUMINOS™ Color Functions
• Multi Interface Shoes
• BIONZ-X . Processor
• NFC enabled
• WiFi enabled
• Flash pop-up

Deficiency

• No optical viewfinder

6. Canon PowerShot SX540 HS . digital camera

• Model name Canon PowerShot SX540 HS
• Form factor bridge
• Skill level 1200 millimeter
• Shutter priority special features
• Basic JPEG quality level, good, normal
• Auto white balance setting
• Zoom lens type
• Age range (description) all ages

The Canon PowerShot SX540 HS is a bridge camera and works with an image sensor in the 1/2.3-inch format, taking photos at 20.3 megapixels. Digital camera lenses have a focal length of between 4.3 and 215 millimeters. 50x optical zoom and 100x digital zoom are available to zoom in on motifs. Although the PowerShot SX540 is a bridge camera, it does not have an optical viewfinder. Subjects are viewed on a 7.5 centimeter screen with five brightness levels.

• Aperture: F3.4 to 6.5
• ISO sensitivity: 80 to 3200
• Interface: Mini-B-USB, Mini-HDMI, SD memory card

With short clip movie mode: Bridge cameras from Canon have a short clip movie mode for video. This allows videos between 4.5 and 6 seconds long to be recorded. The camera intelligently combines photos and movies into a "Movie Album".

If you choose a camera from our comparison, you get access to the Canon Connect app. This allows digital cameras to transfer photos to a Canon Connect station at the touch of a button. This allows images to be stored on different devices and printed using a printer connected to a WLAN network. The camera supports WLAN and NFC and can access the GPS function of the smartphone when connected. For better pictures, it has auto focus, red-eye correction and zoom assistant functions which should fix the subject at higher zoom levels.

The Canon PowerShot SX540 HS has an all-black design typical of a bridge camera. It measures 12.0 x 8.1 x 9.1 centimeters and weighs 442 grams including battery and memory card.

What is a bridge camera? "Bridge" is English for "bridge". A bridge camera is a camera that forms the transition between compact cameras and SLRs - that is, bridging the gap. They work on the same principles as SLR cameras, but have the same dimensions as small mirrorless compact cameras. You can read more about the different types of digital cameras and the advantages and disadvantages of bridge cameras in our guide.

Advantages

• Bridge camera
• 50x . optical zoom
• Short clip movie mode
• WiFi enabled
• NFC enabled
• Can use smartphone GPS

Deficiency

• No optical viewfinder
• Relatively heavy

7. Nikon Coolpix B500 . digital camera

• Model name Nikon Coolpix B500
• Compact form factor
• Special features 16.0 MP CMOS sensor for detailed images
• JPEG quality level Good
• Shooting mode macro
• Zoom lens type
• Age range (description) All ages
• Continuous shooting speed 7.4

The Nikon Coolpix B500 digital camera has a 16-megapixel CMOS image sensor and, according to the manufacturer, delivers brilliant results even in difficult lighting conditions. NIKKOR lenses have a 40x optical zoom, so a lot of detail can be seen even at great distances. The four-axis hybrid image stabilizer reliably absorbs unwanted shocks.

• Focal length: 22.5 to 900 millimeters
• Light intensity: F3 to 6.5
• ISO Sensitivity: 125 - 6,400
• Interface: WLAN, HDMI, USB

Can be used with ordinary batteries: The Nikon Coolpix B500 digital camera is not equipped with a rechargeable battery. Mignon (AA) batteries are used instead. The power supply is sufficient for up to 570 shots.

The Nikon Coolpix B500 digital camera also has a recording function. Recorded documents have a resolution of up to 1,920 x 1,080 pixels, which is full HD. The integrated 3-inch TFT monitor tilts up and down by 90 degrees. This allows recording from unusual angles. Various camera settings can be selected using the function selector.

Advantages

• 40x optical zoom
• Four-axis hybrid image stabilization
• WiFi enabled
• Can be used with ordinary batteries
• Tiltable monitor

Deficiency

• Picture quality is not good according to Amazon buyers

8. Sony RX100 . digital camera

• Model name Sony DSC-RX100
• Compact form factor
• Skill level specialist
• Special features of voice and video recording
• Basic JPEG quality level, good, normal
• Zoom lens type
• Continuous shooting speed 10 fps
• Exposure control type Auto

If you choose the Sony RX100, you get a compact digital camera with a large 1-inch sensor and 20.2 megapixels. The camera has a Zeiss Vario Sonnar lens with a focal length of between 10.4 and 37.1 millimeters. It offers 3.6x optical zoom and 54x digital zoom. The role of the 7.5-centimeter ScreenSearch takes over the compact camera from Sony. The camera records motion pictures in Full HD quality at 1,920 x 1,080 pixels.

• Aperture: F1.8 to 4.9
• ISO sensitivity: 125 to 6400
• Interface: mini-B-USB, mini-HDMI, memory card

Capture One Express software included: Digital camera buyers receive Capture One Express software free of charge. This software is an image editing program from Sony for photos in RAW format.

The Sony RX100 camera body is made of aluminum. According to the manufacturer, this camera offers a wide selection of settings that can be easily configured using the dial at the top. This should make digital cameras from Sony equally attractive to novice and advanced photographers alike. The all-black pocket camera measures 10.1 x 5.8 x 3.5 centimeters. Including battery and memory card, it weighs 240 grams.

Advantages

• Zeiss lens
• High photo resolution
• Includes software for image processing

Deficiency

• Only 3.6x optical zoom
• No optical viewfinder

9. Canon EOS 2000D . digital camera

• Model name Canon EOS Rebel T7
• SLR form factor
• Beginner skill level
• Live view special features
• Basic JPEG quality level, good, normal
• Setting the white balance using flash
• Lens type mirror lens
• Continuous shooting speed 3 fps

The Canon EOS 2000D is not a classic digital camera, but a single-lens reflex camera with a large 22.3mm APS-C sensor. APS-C stands for "Advanced Photo System Classic". Kodak introduced the APS standard for photographic film in 1996. Canon later adopted it as the permanent designation for its sensor format. The Canon APS-C sensor has a sensor size of 22.3 x 14.9 millimeters.

DSLRs take photos with 24.1 megapixels and interchangeable lenses from Canon with focal lengths between 18 and 55 millimeters. Digital cameras are available with a variety of lenses. With the camera, the photographer captures the motif either through the optical viewfinder or the 7.5 centimeter screen. Canon cameras record video with Full HD resolution of 1,920 x 1,080 pixels.

• Aperture: F3.5 to 5.6
• ISO sensitivity: 100 to 6400 for photos and 100 to 6400 for video
• Interface: Mini-HDMI, USB, memory card

Retrofittable GPS: If you choose a camera, you can retrofit the GPS function with the GP-E2 GPS receiver.

The Canon EOS 2000D works with Scene Intelligent Auto mode. This is scene recognition that automatically adapts camera settings to shooting conditions. With the feature guide function, the camera provides easy-to-understand tips on each function, which can make handling easier for beginners. SLR cameras from Canon have autofocus and support NFC, WLAN, and the Canon Connect app.

The Canon EOS 2000D is completely black. As an SLR camera, it is larger than a classic digital camera. It measures 12.9 x 10.1 x 7.7 centimeters and weighs 475 grams including battery and memory card.

Advantages

• SLR camera
• Canon APS-C . sensor
• Optical viewfinder
• Remountable GPS
• WiFi enabled
• NFC enabled

Deficiency

• Relatively big and heavy

10. Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III digital camera

• Model name Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III (20.1 MP, 7.5 cm (3.0") foldable touchscreen LCD, 4.2x optical zoom, WiFi, 4K), black
• Compact form factor
• Skill level specialist
• Basic JPEG quality level, good, normal
• Auto white balance setting
• Shooting mode movie
• Zoom lens type
• Continuous shooting speed 10 fps

The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III digital camera delivers Full HD video resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels at 120 frames per second and is equipped with a one-inch 20.1-megapixel CMOS sensor. The integrated microphone should allow for clear voice recording, while the WLAN function makes it easy to post photos or live streams on platforms like YouTube. According to Canon, the camera can easily be "turned" into a webcam for streaming, requiring only the free "EOS Webcam Utility" software. The built-in 24mm wide-angle lens delivers a 4.2x optical zoom, according to the manufacturer. The camera also has integrated aperture and aperture priority.

Continuous shooting possible: According to the manufacturer, the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III digital camera allows continuous shooting at 30 frames per second in so-called RAW burst mode with a pre-shoot function.

Digital cameras from Canon have a three-inch LC screen that can be folded 180 degrees with a touch function and also offers two functions of panorama mode and focus bracketing. The latter is nothing more than a series of shots of the same subject taken at different focus settings. According to Canon, the digital camera shipping scope includes the manufacturer's WS-DC12 wrist strap, NB-13L battery, CB-2LHE battery charger, power cable, and operating instructions. According to the manufacturer, the camera can be used in an ambient temperature of 0 to 40 degrees Celsius and a relative humidity of between 10 and 90 percent.

Advantages

• Large CMOS sensor
• WiFi enabled
• Can be used as a webcam
• Foldable touch screen
• RAW burst mode for continuous shooting

Deficiency

• Only 4.2x optical zoom

What is a digital camera?

A digital camera is a camera that stores images in digital form on an integrated storage medium. The term "digital camera" is a general term that includes many different types of cameras. Digital cameras include inexpensive disposable cameras and high-priced single-lens reflex cameras.

Digital camera – the most important components at a glance

All digital cameras follow the same structure. The following four components largely determine its functionality:

• Lens
• F-number
• Closing
• Image sensor

Objective

The lens is the element of the camera lens. It houses several lenses through which incoming light hits the image sensor. This is what creates the photo. Lenses are important for both speed and focal length values. With a high-quality SLR or system camera, the lens can be swapped for a bayonet. The interchangeable lenses allow photographers to use different focal lengths of work.

Aperture

The diaphragm or diaphragm blade of a digital camera is located on the lens. You decide how much light falls on the image sensor. This can be controlled via the aperture ring on the lens. In general, the larger the aperture, the more light enters the camera. The default lens flash number. This means that all lenses with an aperture number of 5.0 have the same incident light - regardless of manufacturer.

The strength of the incident light greatly determines the quality of the photo. If too little light reaches the sensor, the images become underexposed, they appear dark and lack detail. If too much light hits the sensor, the image becomes too bright and appears too bright. How high the camera light intensity should be for a perfect photo depends on the lighting conditions during recording.

Closing

Shutter serves to adjust the arrival of light on the image sensor. As soon as the photographer presses the camera's shutter button, the shutter opens and lets light fall onto the sensor. After a pre-set period of time, it closes automatically. This period is the exposure time. Overexposure and underexposure can be avoided by choosing an appropriate exposure time for the lighting conditions.

Image sensor

The image sensor is at the heart of the digital camera. The imager converts the light that reaches it into the digital values ​​that make up the photo. The size of the sensor is very important for the photo quality of a digital camera.

How do digital cameras work?

The function of a digital camera is very complex. To explain it in an easy-to-understand way, we divide it into three time periods:

• Before exposure
• During exposure
• After exposure

Before exposure

Before exposure, there is an option to see the motifs on the camera view or the integrated viewfinder align as desired. The first step in image acquisition is focus. The subject of the photo - such as a building or person is shown in sharp focus, against a slightly blurred background. This places the subject in the foreground of the photo. Focusing can be done manually or using the autofocus function.

Digital cameras are equipped with exposure metering and exposure control for automatic adjustment to current lighting conditions. Experienced photographers can adjust exposure manually.

During exposure

Exposure takes only a few milliseconds. Photos were taken during this time. Light hits the digital image sensor through the lens lens. Modern digital cameras have anti-shock protection. This is a sensor that automatically compensates for the blurry effect of the image caused by small camera movements. Image errors occur during exposure. This is a distortion that makes straight lines of light appear slightly curved. The camera must compensate for this aberration after exposure.

After exposure

After exposure, the raw data of the photo is available. They can be saved as RAW files or in JPG format. The difference between the RAW and JPG formats is that the RAW format allows for detailed processing of images and is therefore also larger.

The following processing steps also occur:

• Bayer Interpolation: Here, the primary colors red, green and blue, which are recorded individually and side by side with the image sensor, are combined in the camera to form a multicolored image.
• White balance: This step corrects color reproduction according to camera settings.
• Image optimization: During image optimization, fine adjustments of contrast, color saturation, sharpness and brightness, and noise reduction take place.

What types of digital cameras are there?

We know four types of digital cameras. In the following sections we will discuss how they differ from each other and what are the advantages and disadvantages of each type. The four types of digital cameras are:

• Compact camera
• Bridge camera
• System camera
• SLR camera

Compact camera

Compact cameras are the smallest and most economical digital cameras. Other than basic functions like zoom and flash, they don't offer a lot of setup options. In the upper price range there are models that have different recording modes or adjustable exposure times. Compact cameras are becoming less and less important, as high-quality smartphones produce footage of comparable quality. For beginners in photography, they can still be interesting because of their clear range of functions.

The advantages and disadvantages of a pocket camera

Digital single lens reflex camera

The specialty of digital SLR cameras is that the light from the camera lens does not directly hit the sensor, but hits the mirror first. When the DSLR is triggered, the mirror folds in and reflects light onto the image sensor. This allows large sensors to be installed in SLR cameras. Therefore, they are considered as cameras with the best image quality. For optimal viewing of the subject, they are basically equipped with a fitted optical viewfinder. DSLR camera lenses are interchangeable, so photographers with different focal lengths can work. Combined with the many setting options that most SLR cameras offer, they are a great choice for professionals or ambitious hobby photographers.

SLR cameras focus faster and have less shutter lag than other types of digital cameras. That means there is less time between the shutter release and the finished photo.

If you want to use the advantages of an SLR camera for yourself, you will have to accept some disadvantages. Not only is it the largest digital camera, it is also the most expensive. The back of the broken mirror produces an audible sound when taking pictures. This can be detrimental for animal photography. The range of functions can overwhelm beginners at first.

Pros and cons of digital SLR cameras

Bridge camera

Cameras that make up the transition between compact cameras and SLR cameras are referred to as bridge cameras. Bridge cameras work on the same principle as SLR cameras, but have similar dimensions to small compact cameras. Due to the smaller sensor, the image quality is lower than that of SLR cameras, but higher than that of compact cameras. Lenses are usually permanently attached and cannot be exchanged. The biggest advantage is the low cost of acquisition. Bridge cameras are perfect for amateur photographers who want the highest possible image quality but don't want to invest in an expensive SLR camera. Its compact design makes it a good choice for on-the-go photography.

Pros and cons of bridge cameras

System camera

System cameras are the biggest competition for SLR cameras. Mirrorless system cameras (DSLM) also work with large image sensors and produce similar image quality. The system camera works not only without a mirror, but also with an optical viewfinder. Mirrorless system cameras are more compact than SLR cameras and take photos without noise. The image is transmitted directly from the sensor to the camera view, which is used as the viewfinder on most serving models. Some system cameras (DSLM) have an electronic viewfinder. It does not show the motif through the lens, but receives it in digital form from the image sensor. In terms of exposure time, the system camera cannot keep up with the SLR model. Lenses are interchangeable in system cameras, so working with different focal lengths is possible with interchangeable lenses. System cameras are in the same price category as SLR cameras.

Advantages and disadvantages of mirrorless system cameras

How much does a digital camera cost?

There is a wide price range between compact cameras and SLR cameras. If you're looking for an inexpensive digital camera for occasional photography, you'll find it in a lower price range. There are compact cameras and bridges for mid- and low-three-digit numbers. Hobbyist photographers can browse in the mid-priced range. Here you can find all kinds of digital cameras at mid to high triple digit prices. The above price ranges are usually only attractive to professional photographers.

• Digital camera from lower price range: 50 to $200
• Digital cameras from the mid-price segment: 200 to $1,000
• Digital cameras from the top price range: from $1,000

Internet versus specialist stores: where is it worth buying a digital camera?

If you search outside the internet, you will find digital cameras in photo and camera stores, in electronics stores or in department stores. There you can get personal advice. If you don't want to know yourself about the criteria for buying a digital camera, you have the best chance of getting personal advice at a specialist shop.

Interested parties can purchase almost any digital camera currently available on the Internet. Photographers are in a good position to obtain comprehensive information and to precisely compare individual models with each other - or use comparisons like ours. As soon as a suitable camera is found, orders can be placed conveniently and quickly from home. For most consumers, the advantages of the Internet outweigh the disadvantages. With more effort, you can also find good cameras in local stores.

Digital Camera Buyer's Guide: What Should You Consider When Buying a Digital Camera?

In order for a digital camera to meet the needs and intended use of the user, it must be chosen carefully. To ensure the right purchase decision, we have compiled the most important criteria to consider when buying a camera in the following sections.

1. Image sensor
2. Megapixel
3. Lens
4. Light intensity
5. Zoom in
6. Auto focus
7. viewfinder and display
8. Image stabilizer
9. Storage capacity
10. power supply type
11. Additional equipment

Image sensor

The image sensor is responsible for converting the light captured by the camera lens into a digital image. This is very important for the image quality of a digital camera. In general, the larger the image sensor, the more light it can capture and the more vivid the photo looks. Most compact digital cameras work with image sensors in the 1/2.5-inch format, which is 5.7 x 4.2 millimeters. High-quality compact and bridge cameras often have 1-inch sensors that are twice as large, measuring 13.2 x 8.8 millimeters. SLR cameras and systems often use a 4/3 sensor measuring 17.3 x 13.0 millimeters. Full format sensors are used in high quality professional models. The full format sensor measures 36.0 x 24.0 millimeters.

Megapixels

Megapixels indicate how many pixels the digital camera used to take a photo. Megapixel means 1000 pixels. The megapixel value has long been an important indicator of camera image quality. Modern digital cameras have now reached resolutions that guarantee sharp images. As a rule of thumb, photos look sharp from 12 megapixels. The difference between 12 and 20 megapixels is barely noticeable. The size of the image sensor and proper lens selection determines image quality.

Objective

The lens is the optical component of a digital camera and determines the focal length. It consists of several lenses arranged one behind the other, which direct light onto the image sensor. The aperture in the lens determines the exposure time. There are regular lenses, telephoto lenses, and wide-angle lenses. Different lenses are each suitable for different zoom ranges. Zoom lenses are the most versatile: With them, all three angles of view from the focal length can be used. Zoom lenses are expensive and work at different focal lengths usually not as good as specialty lenses.

Lenses are categorized by index number. The numbers describe the focal length and aperture number. The lens labeled "8.8-36.8mm f/1.1.2.8" is a zoom lens with a focal length of 8.8-36.8 millimeters. The zoom level is a factor of 1.8 to 2.8.

Light intensity

The light intensity indicates how much light falls on the image sensor or how much light enters through the camera aperture. This is determined by a fractional value. Value refers to the maximum adjustable aperture size. Lenses with a maximum aperture of f/1.8 have a higher maximum aperture than lenses with f/3.2. In order for a camera with a large image sensor to produce optimal image quality, a high light intensity is required, namely a large aperture. Low-light cameras only take good photos in bright light conditions or with a flash unit.

Zoom

Zoom tells you how much the subject can be zoomed in with the camera. Depending on the digital camera, this can be digital or analog. With analog zoom, the camera lens works like a magnifying glass. This type of zoom is lens dependent and, with the same zoom power, usually gives better results than digital zoom, which is associated with a loss of quality. Zoom strength varies greatly between digital cameras. While simple compact cameras often only have 2x zoom, high-quality SLR cameras can zoom in on subjects up to 60x. Zoom plays no role in camera image quality. Important for photography at sporting events, concerts, or when documenting wildlife where images are often taken from a distance.

Experienced photographers know that large zooms only help in some situations. Usually the photographer has the opportunity to get closer to the subject.

Auto focus

Before autofocus was available, photographers had to manually focus images using the ring on the lens. Modern digital cameras focus automatically. Depending on the digital camera, up to four types of focus functions are available:

• MF - manual focus: With many SLR and system cameras with removable lenses, it is possible to adjust the focus manually even though there is an autofocus function. This allows for more precise subject adjustment, which makes manual focus useful for professionals.
• AF.S - Steady Focus: The camera focuses on a specific subject, but cannot adjust focus to the movement of the subject.
• AF.C - Continuous Focus: Focus can follow the subject and stay focused as the photographer approaches or moves away from the subject.
• AF.A – autofocus: The camera handles focusing completely automatically, with control electronics deciding whether or not focus follows the object.

Viewfinder and display

A digital camera with a screen or viewfinder can be used to view the subject. High quality models have both. With an optical viewfinder, photos are easy to focus on even in bright conditions when what's on the screen is difficult to see. This makes it easy to find the best subject because the photographer's view is not disturbed by the surroundings.

With digital cameras without an optical viewfinder, it is important to ensure that the screen is as large as possible. Otherwise, taking photos may be inconvenient.

Image stabilizer

High-zoom and focal length digital cameras tend to produce blurry images. An image stabilizer is used to avoid this problem. A distinction is made between mechanical and electronic image stabilizers. A mechanical image stabilizer uses moving elements in the lens to compensate for small camera movements. It is considered a more effective method of image stabilization. The electronic image stabilizer does not stabilize the image, but rather increases the camera's ISO value. This shortens exposure time and reduces the risk of blurry images. Image quality may decrease when using an electronic image stabilizer. If you don't want to compromise on image quality, you should use a camera with a mechanical image stabilizer.

Storage capacity

Digital cameras do not have film. You store photos on the integrated hard drive or an inserted memory card. The number of images that can be stored in the camera depends on how much storage space it has. The internal storage capacity is several megabytes in most models. If you want to take a lot of pictures, you will need a memory card.

The number of images that can be stored on a memory card depends on the number of megapixels the camera uses. Photos taken with 5 megapixels occupy about 1.5 megabytes of storage space. There is room for 572 such photos on a 1 gigabyte memory card. With 8 megapixel photo resolution, a photo occupies about 2.4 gigabytes. At this resolution, only about 357 photos can be stored on a 1 gigabyte memory card.

Power supply type

Digital cameras are available with internal rechargeable batteries and batteries. Both variants have advantages and disadvantages. Although batteries usually have a shorter lifespan, they can be replaced quickly. This makes it very suitable for taking photos on the go, where it is not always possible to charge the camera. The advantage of integrated batteries is that they can be charged. You don't have to constantly buy new batteries. However, rechargeable batteries have a limited life and must be replaced after several years of use. Depending on the manufacturer, buying a new camera battery can be expensive.

Additional equipment

Many digital cameras are equipped with modern technology that makes handling easier and expands the range of possible uses. The most important functions include:

• WLAN: WLAN allows digital cameras to connect wirelessly to a network. This makes it easy to transfer photos to a computer, smartphone or tablet.
• Bluetooth: The Bluetooth function allows wireless data transmission between two Bluetooth-enabled devices in close proximity. Photographers can transfer images to their smartphones or tablets to back up or edit on the go.
• GPS: Digital cameras with GPS automatically add geolocation metadata to photos. This makes it easier to sort later and makes it easier to find pictures in large folders.
• Video Capability: Not all digital cameras allow video recording. Models from lower price ranges often only have a photo function. In the field of pocket cameras, the video function is one of the additional features.

Which digital camera manufacturers are famous?

There are many well-known companies in the field of digital cameras. In the following section, we briefly introduce three of the most well-known digital camera manufacturers.

Canon

The Canon Company was founded in Tokyo on August 10, 1937 by Yoshida Goro, Uchuda Saburo and Tkeshi Matarai. The company name can be traced back to the company's first product - the Kwannon camera. After its founding, Canon produced replicas of the then leading 35mm cameras in 35mm format from Leica and Contax. Canon only started producing its own cameras 10 years after the company was founded. In 1984 the company released its first digital camera - the Canon RC-701. Currently, Canon's product line includes compact cameras, SLR cameras, system cameras, and instant cameras.

Sony

On May 7, 47, Morita Akio and Ibuka Masaru founded the Sony company under the name Tōky Tsūshin Kōgyō KK Translated to mean "Tokyo communications industry company". The first Sony product was a transistor licensed from the US manufacturer Bell Laboratories. They formed the basis for Sony's first radio. Today, Sony is one of the leading manufacturers in the field of entertainment electronics. The product range includes televisions, game consoles, loudspeakers, receivers and digital cameras. Sony offers compact cameras, system cameras, lenses and camera accessories - such as filters and lens cases.

Nikon

Nikon was founded in Japan on July 25, 1917 by Koyata Iwasaki. At first, the company made optical glasses. Five years after its founding, Nikon began producing camera lenses. The company introduced its first camera - the Nikon I - in 1948. Since then, Nikon has continued to expand its status as one of the world's leading camera manufacturers. Today the company offers all kinds of digital cameras and a wide range of camera accessories.

What accessories are useful for a digital camera?

If you want to use the various functions of your new digital camera, you might consider purchasing a variety of accessories. The most important accessories are presented in the following sections. This includes:

1. Camera bag
2. Tripod
3. Underwater housing
4. Photo printer
5. Memory card

Camera bag

If you always want to carry your camera so you don't miss the moment to get the perfect photo, you should carry your camera with care. There are different types of camera bags for this purpose. The hard case has a strong outer material and protects the camera from bumps and shocks. But they take up more space in a backpack or handbag than cases with soft cases.

Tripod

If you want to take professional photos and videos, you'll need a tripod. A tripod is a height-adjustable mount that allows for shock-free recording. For owners of compact cameras, it is recommended to use a mini tripod. The small tripod is easy to carry in a backpack and is suitable for most situations.

Underwater housing

Most digital cameras are not waterproof. If you still want to photograph the colorful underwater world, you can buy an underwater house. Photographers can insert their digital camera into a waterproof mount and take pictures at depths of up to 60 meters.

Photo printer

In the era of digitization, many people are satisfied with images in digital form. If you don't just want to admire your motifs on screen, you don't need to go to the pharmacy or photo shop on a regular basis. With a photo printer, photos can be printed at home with comparable quality.

Memory card

Most digital cameras only have a few megabytes of internal storage space. If you want to take a lot of photos, you will need a memory card. Most cameras work with an SD or micro SD card. When buying, you should pay attention to the speed of writing and reading. Above all, write speed is very important. You determine how quickly the images can later be transferred to the computer.

Frequently asked questions about digital cameras

Finally, we answer a series of frequently asked questions regarding digital cameras.

Which digital camera is the best?

There is no such thing as the best digital camera. Amateur photographers place different demands on their cameras than professionals. So, there are only digital cameras that best suit individual needs. If you follow all the tips in our guide, you have a good chance of finding the right digital camera.

What digital camera is suitable for beginners?

A digital camera with a variety of functions that can be set and inexpensive is suitable for beginners. So there is no big financial loss to be afraid of if the new hobby doesn't live up to expectations. The clear range of functions reduces the risk of burdensome camera operation for beginners. These requirements are met by compact cameras from the lower and middle price ranges.

Which is better - Canon or Nikon cameras?

Canon and Nikon are among the world's leading digital camera manufacturers. Both companies produce high-quality cameras that are suitable for beginners and professionals alike. If you only want to take the occasional photo, you will hardly notice the difference between Canon and Nikon.

What focal length is suitable for which photo?

The camera's focal length can be divided into five areas:

• Super wide angle - 16mm focal length: Good for landscape or city photos
• Wide Angle - Fixed focal length 24mm: Great for photos and family portraits
• Sundries - 35mm focal length: suitable for almost any recording
• Detailed lens - 50mm focal length: Great for shooting fine details
• Super telephoto lens - 85mm focal length: Great for long distance photos

What helps against red eye in photos?

The characteristic red eye in photos occurs because the widely circulated area behind the eye reflects off the camera flash. The closer the camera is to the person, the stronger the red-eye effect appears. The easiest way to avoid the effect: Don't use flash. Alternatively, photographers can use an external flash or use a camera with automatic red-eye correction.

Conclusion

What is your opinion? Have you found the right digital camera?

By using the best digital camera that has excellent image quality and functions on a smartphone, you can upload beautiful selfies on social media. However, don't forget to consider the price, adjust it to the budget you provide.

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