In today’s world of advanced smartphone cameras, point and shoot cameras still hold a special place for photography enthusiasts.
For those looking to elevate their skills without breaking the bank, a point and shoot camera is the ideal option.
If you are on a budget and in the market for a point and shoot camera, you can find many great options for under $300.
However, it can be difficult to separate the quality cameras from the duds at this price point.
If you are on a budget, you really don’t want to waste money on a camera that doesn’t perform.
Especially when you can find high-performing cameras that deliver excellent image quality at this price point.
Trust me, I’ve found many.
And don’t worry, I’m going to share them with you.
Here you can find the reviews of five incredible point and shoot cameras for $300.
These cameras offer the perfect balance of portability, convenience and impressive capabilities.
We’ll dive into the features and performance of each camera, considering all of the important factors.
Not only can you find personal recommendations for someone who has tried and tested them but there is also a how to buy guide below.
This will help you understand what to look for in a point and shoot camera, ultimately finding one that does the trick for under $300.
This is helpful whether you’re a beginner looking to upgrade from your smartphone or a seasoned photographer seeking a reliable backup camera.
It will help you make an informed decision and find the perfect point and shoot camera that meets your budget and creative needs.
So read on to discover the best options available for under $300 and take your photography skills to the next level without breaking the bank.
Best Point and Shoot Camera Under $300 – Reviews
If you’re on the hunt for an affordable yet high-performing point and shoot camera, look no further than this list.
These five point and shoot cameras produce incredible quality images and all are under $300.
Panasonic LUMIX ZSO50K – Best Point and Shoot Camera Under $300 Overall
The Panasonic Lumix ZS50K is a powerful and compact point-and-shoot camera that offers a range of impressive features.
With a 12.1-megapixel sensor and a 30x optical zoom lens, this camera provides excellent image quality and the ability to capture detailed shots from a distance.
Its compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for travel and shooting on the go.
On the downside, the low-light performance of the ZS50K is not as strong as other cameras with images showing noticeable noise in low light conditions.
The autofocus works well but can occasionally be a bit slow, especially in challenging lighting conditions or when tracking moving subjects.
In addition, the settings can be overwhelming for beginners requiring some time to navigate and understand.
Image Quality
Features a 12.8 megapixel crop sensor which captures great quality images for a camera of this size. It achieves crystal clear images that you will definitely be impressed with.
Video Quality
Captures up to a maximum of 1080p at 60fps ensuring your videos are Full HD quality.
Zoom Range
Features a 30x optical zoom which is incredible for capturing close ups.
Auto Focus
This camera features ‘Light Speed Auto Focus’, Panasonic’s incredible focus technology that works fast and accurately. Whilst some have claimed that the auto focus could be slightly unreliable, I had no issues myself and felt it worked well, achieving great results.
Image Stabilization
In-built image stabilization works incredibly well to create blur free handheld shots and smooth video.
Low Light Performance
Captures details well in low light. This camera features an extendable ISO of up to 6400 but does not work well past ISO 800.
While it may have some limitations in low light, its overall image quality makes it an excellent choice for those on a budget.
“The Panasonic Lumix ZS50K is a solid choice for those seeking an affordable point and shoot camera. I was particularly impressed by its zoom range and the image quality is incredible for the price point.”
Canon PowerShot SX610 HS – Best Point and Shoot Camera Under $300 Which is Feature-Rich
This beginner-friendly point and shoot camera offers a range of impressive features whilst remaining easy to use.
Its 20.2-megapixel sensor delivers excellent image quality with vibrant colors and sharp details.
The camera’s low light performance is particularly noteworthy.
It produces crisp, clear and noise-free images making it a reliable choice for capturing in a diverse range of environments.
The auto focus system performs well ensuring fast and accurate focusing.
Meanwhile, the 18x optical zoom provides great versatility allowing you to capture at a range of distances.
On the downside, the LCD screen is difficult to see in bright sunlight. Also, the video quality is decent but is limited to 1080p resolution.
Image Quality
20.2mp high-resolution sensor that helps to create sensational images. I loved the image quality that this camera achieved.
Video Quality
Shoots at a maximum quality of 1080p which is great for a camera of this price point.
Zoom Range
Features an 18x optical zoom which captures great quality images even at its maximum setting.
Auto Focus
Phenomenal auto focus that focuses instantly in good light. In low light, it does take a little extra time depending on the situation but once focused, it locks and is highly accurate. This camera also features a macro focus mode which when selected can auto focus on subjects just 5cm away. This is a great all-rounder for both close and distant shots.
Image Stabilization
Great image stabilization that achieves sharp and smooth results.
Low Light Performance
Whilst this camera has a small sensor size, it has great low light performance. It has a maximum ISO of 3200 which is relatively noise free and great exposure compensation.
Overall, this camera is an excellent choice for a point and shoot camera under $300.
I found it had impressive low light performance and a reliable auto focus system that produced beautiful stills.
It does have some minor drawbacks such as the screen visibility and lack of 4K video. However, its image quality and versatility make it a solid option for capturing memorable moments during your travels or everyday adventures.
“Overall, the Canon PowerShot SX610 HS is an excellent choice for a point and shoot camera under $300. I found it had impressive low light performance and a reliable auto focus system that produced beautiful stills.”
Nikon Coolpix B600 – Best Point and Shoot Camera Under $300 for Battery Life
A versatile camera that offers a range of features to enhance your photography, the Nikon Coolpix B600 is an excellent choice for a point and shoot at a low price tag.
With a 16 mp sensor and powerful 60x optical zoom lens, this camera allows you to capture detailed images even from a distance.
The zoom range provides versatility, allowing you to capture everything from sweeping landscapes to close-up shots and portraits.
The B600 also features built-in image stabilization reducing the impact of camera shake and ensuring sharper images.
Meanwhile, its compact and lightweight design makes it a convenient option for travel and outdoor adventures.
However, the standout feature when compared to other cameras is its impressive battery life.
This allows for extended shooting sessions without the need to frequently recharge or swap out batteries.
Plus, the B600 supports Full HD video recording allowing you to capture high-quality videos.
Whilst there is no major downside, the auto focus is nothing more than average.
Image Quality
The Coolpix B600 has a 16 megapixel sensor that works well to capture good quality imagery for the price tag.
Video Quality
Shoots at a maximum of 1080p which produces Full HD video and is the next best thing to 4K. For the price point, this is great quality.
Zoom Range
60x optical zoom for capturing high quality images at a variety of distances. The zoom works very quickly allowing you to spontaneously capture photos of far away subjects.
Auto Focus
Decent auto focus but nothing noteworthy. If you want crisp, clear subjects with a blurred background, this camera is no for you. However, if you simply want standard focusing, this camera will do the job.
Image Stabilization
Great image stabilization that produces blur-free images and smooth video. However, some visible camera shake is noticeable at maximum zoom.
Low Light Performance
Good low light performance with good exposure compensation and adjusting white balance. It also has a maximum ISO of 6400 that produces relatively noise-free images at high ISO.
Whilst testing this camera, there was nothing particularly I disliked about it.
“The Nikon Coolpix B600 was a great contender for my top spot for best point and shoot camera under $300. Particularly with such a monster battery life. However, due to the less than impressive auto focus, I favored the LUMIX ZSO50K instead.”
Sony DSCWX220 – Best Point and Shoot Camera Under $300 for Low Light Performance
The Sony DSCWX220 is undoubtedly one of the best point-and-shoot cameras under $300.
It offers exceptional performance and features that exceed its price range.
This camera features a 18.2-megapixel sensor that delivers stunning image quality.
It captures rich details and vibrant colors immortalizing your subject or scene.
One of the standout features of this camera is its superior low light performance.
It captures sharp and noise-free images even in dimly lit environments.
Plus, the compact design of the DSCWX220 makes it perfect for on-the-go adventures.
It fits easily into your pocket or bag without weighing you down and doesn’t compromise on image quality.
The only letdown for me with this camera was the zoom.
Sadly, this camera only features a 10x optical zoom.
Whilst the zoom works well and is relatively decent, when compared to other point and shoot cameras with up to 60x optical zoom, it is a bit of a downfall.
Image Quality
18 megapixel sensor that produces high image quality for an affordable price.
Video Quality
Shoots in 1080p Full HD capturing detailed and noise-free videos.
Zoom Range
10x optical zoom which was a slight disappointment in this camera as many cameras now have up to 60x.
Auto Focus
Features an intelligent auto focus system that works quickly and accurating. It locks onto the subject ensuring it remains in clear focus and the tracking function can also be set to lock on to moving subjects.
Image Stabilization
Features Sony’s Optical SteadyShot Image Stabilization. This technology works incredibly and dramatically reduces camera shake. It works really well with low shutter speeds.
Low Light Performance
Exceptional low light performance with a large ISO range that works well at high ISO. You can also adjust the shutter speed to capture more light whilst the exposure compensation automatically adjusts lighting. This is a great camera for shooting in diverse lighting conditions including sunrise and sunset.
This camera exceeds expectations for a point-and-shoot camera under $300.
I was extremely impressed with its image quality and excellent low light performance.
“There is no doubt that the Sony DSCWX220 would make the ideal companion for capturing moments and adventures.”
Kodak PixPRO FZ43 – Best Point and Shoot Camera Under $300 for Beginners
The Kodak PixPro FZ43 is an entry-level point and shoot camera that is perfect for beginners.
This camera captures great image quality suitable for everyday snapshots.
It offers a variety of shooting modes and creative filters, making it easy to experiment and enhance your photos without the use of confusing, advanced settings.
The compact and lightweight design of the FZ43 makes it convenient for carrying around during your adventures.
However, one area where the FZ43 falls short is its zoom capabilities.
The 4x optical zoom is really limited and may not be sufficient for capturing distant subjects.
Additionally, the video quality is subpar, limited to 720p resolution.
Most point and shoot cameras now capture 1080p so this is really disappointing.
However, if video is not a priority, this can be compromised for its ease of use and image quality.
Image Quality
16.4 megapixels captures high-resolution images that look great printed as well as digital.
Video Quality
Maximum video quality of 720p which these days is low even at this price point. Most point and shoot cameras under $300 can now shoot at 1080p.
Zoom Range
4x optical zoom which is really poor in comparison to other point and shoot cameras. This was the least impressive zoom of all five cameras.
Auto Focus
Good auto focus that works fast and accurately whilst remaining locked on the subject.
Image Stabilization
Features optical image stabilization which works well for stills and video free of camera shake.
Low Light Performance
Great low light performance with automatically adjusting exposure. With a max ISO of 1600, images remain noise-free throughout all sensitivities.
Despite some limitations, the Kodak PixPro FZ43 excels as a beginner-friendly camera due to its ease of use and affordability.
Its easy to use controls and understandable settings, it is highly accessible for those new to photography.
If you’re seeking a basic point and shoot camera for casual photography, the Kodak PixPro FZ43 is a reliable and budget-friendly option.
“I think the Kodak PixPro FZ43 is such a great camera to learn and practice without being overwhelmed by advanced settings.”
How to Buy the Best Point and Shoot Camera Under $300
Whilst technology in point and shoot cameras is incredible in the 21st century, there are some compromises to be made when buying a camera for under $300.
At such an affordable price point, there are some limitations on cameras.
It is therefore essential to identify which features are most important to you.
You can then prioritize those aspects and compromise in other areas.
When considering the best point and shoot camera under $300, factoring in the below features is very important.
Image Quality
When purchasing any camera, image quality is a high priority.
Point and shoot cameras these days produce incredibly quality images.
However, with a point and shoot camera under $300, there is no doubt that quality will be reduced in contrast to high end cameras.
Most point and shoot cameras at this price point are within a small range of image quality.
The main thing to consider is whether you are keeping images digital or if you will be printing any.
Cameras with high megapixels produce higher resolution images which are needed for print.
Therefore this is something that should be carefully considered, especially if you are printing.
Video Quality
These days it is all about 4K.
However, it will be extremely difficult to find a point and shoot camera under $300 that has 4K.
Most cameras do however offer 1080p video which is second best to 4K.
This produces high-quality Full HD videos.
However, not all cameras are equal and you will find some, like the Kodak PixPro FZ43 have a lower video quality.
If video is not a priority this may be irrelevant to you.
But if you do plan on shooting video, look for a camera with 1080p.
Low Light Performance
Low light performance is important for point and shoot cameras under $300 as it helps you capture high-quality images in challenging lighting conditions.
When shooting in low light environments, a camera’s ability to handle poor light becomes crucial.
A point and shoot camera with good low light performance will produce images with reduced noise, enhanced detail and accurate colors.
Whilst point and shoot cameras are not renowned for low light performance, I found some great ones.
The Kodak PixPro FZ43 and the Sony DSCWX220 are particularly noteworthy in this department.
A point and shoot camera under $300 with strong low light performance ensures that even those on a budget can capture stunning images in various lighting conditions.
Auto Focus
Auto focus is a feature of pretty much every camera these days.
However, not all auto focus systems work efficiently.
You want to ensure your camera’s auto focus is fast and reliable.
It is also beneficial if your auto focus works well at maximum zoom and in low light.
Good auto focus is particularly advantageous to beginners.
This allows you to put all your attention on framing without the need to worry about focus.
It helps you to get to know the basics of photography without thinking about more intricate details.
Video Stabilization
Typically, your point and shoot camera will be used handheld.
That’s how I use mine anyway.
I have never used a tripod for a point and shoot camera.
Therefore, image stabilization is crucial.
It makes sure that still images are well focused and free from blur whilst videos are smooth with minimal camera shake.
All five of the cameras I tested had good, if not great, image stabilization.
Most point and shoot cameras under $300 do seem to have image stabilization now.
But you will definitely want to make sure your camera has this feature.
Zoom Range
When purchasing a point and shoot camera, you do have limitations on zoom range.
Whilst DSLR and mirrorless cameras work with interchangeable lenses that can vary in zoom range, point and shoot cameras have a fixed lens.
Therefore, the camera that you purchase is the zoom range you have to work with.
Cameras such as the the Nikon Coolpix B600 have an incredible zoom range of 60x optical zoom.
However, there are also a lot of cameras that are below par.
For example, the Kodak PixPro FZ43 only has a 4x optical zoom.
A larger zoom range offers greater flexibility for shooting distant subjects and should be an important factor to consider.
Things to Ignore
For a music video camera, you may ignore the stabilization feature. But if you aren’t using a tripod or a gimbal, it is something you must consider.
Also, you don’t have to go for a camera with a decent mic in most cases. Since the music videos are going to have the voice-over after all. You should consider attaching an external mic in case you’re shooting a concert.
Best Point and Shoot Camera Under $300 – My Verdict
Overall, my favorite point and shoot camera under $300 was the Panasonic LUMIX ZSO50K.
This camera is a great all-rounder with a great zoom range and good auto focus that produces incredible quality photos and videos.
However, the low light performance on this camera was not particularly strong.
A better option for low light performance is the Sony DSCWX220.
And if you are a complete beginner, the Kodak PixPro FZ43 may be a better fit.
Regardless of which camera you choose, there is one that will meet your wants, needs and budget.
Don’t forget to consider the factors in the how to buy guide to help you find the best point and shoot camera under $300.
