10 Best Compact Cameras UK 2024 | Canon, Panasonic and More

With the ability to produce top-quality images, this game-changing compact camera is certainly one of the best in class. It has one of the largest sensors, a high megapixel count and 4K filming amongst a myriad of other features. 

Furthermore, you can customise the buttons to create shortcuts to your favourite features. All of this is made easy to navigate via an outstandingly detailed back screen. Best of all, it manages to provide this superb quality at a relatively wallet-friendly price!

While this offering from Ricoh might not have the same amount of features as some of the other cameras on this list, what it does offer, it does exceptionally well. In particular, this compact camera really shines when shooting street photography, landscapes and architecture. 

Whilst it does have autofocus, we like the ability to opt for manual focus instead. This feature allows the user to get creative with depth of field and other artistic endeavours. To top it all off, it's incredibly intuitive and simple to use. 

The Fujifilm X100V is by far the most expensive compact in our ranking. However, if you want to take your photography seriously, this is an investment that will last for many years. We think it offers incredible value for money because, as they say, you get what you pay for. 

This camera boasts top of the line technology, including a large sensor, quality lens and multiple features. For the style conscious, not only does the camera body have a cool retro aesthetic, but it allows you to shoot using retro-style filters that accurately mimic the look of film! 

Granted, the Polaroid might not be the most compact on this list, but it does offer you something that none of the other cameras can. This camera instantly prints a physical photo to share with the people you're spending those precious moments with. 

Of course, these cameras still use film, so you will need to factor that into the costs as you can expect to pay around £15.00 for 20 sheets. That aside, it's easily the most fun camera on the list as it's so straightforward to navigate and easy to use. There's a reason Polaroid hasn't really been bettered since the 70s!

The reality is that not all people have, or want, to spend hundreds of pounds on a camera solely for one purpose. That's why Sony have created an excellent range which caters to various needs - and our pick of the bunch is the Cybershot WX350!

This camera has many outstanding qualities, such as a high megapixel count, decent filming quality and excellent image stabilisation. However, what surprised us the most is the durability. Usually, when producing lower priced models, companies cut costs by using cheaper body materials, but that's certainly not the case here. 

If you're looking for something for your travels, you can do much worse than this little pocket camera from Panasonic. One of the most unique selling features is an incredible 15x zoom, making this the ideal companion for those who like to get out and take photographs in nature. 

Moreover, the camera comes bundled with a Post Focus feature for beginners. This allows you to sharpen images  - even after taking the photo - by simply clicking on the blurred part. You'll never have that 'what if' feeling again!

This little pocket powerhouse from Canon has some excellent features considering the lower price tag. Firstly, the sensor is a very respectable 13.2 x 8.8 mm size, with a decent 20.1 megapixel count and 1080p filming quality. Add to that the three big hitters in terms of features, and you're on to a winner!

The camera is known for having reliable connectivity, and is an intuitive choice for beginners. However, there are a couple of setbacks. For instance, the limited zoom range could be a problem if that feature is particularly important to your photography needs. 

There'll be no surprises about what this camera is built for once you've seen the structure. As a compact action camera, if you're looking for something to take climbing, hiking, kayaking or on outdoor adventures, this will be right up your street!

The camera is practically indestructible, being waterproof, shockproof, dustproof, shatterproof and even frostproof. So, you can be confident it will survive under most conditions. It goes without saying that this camera takes some pretty good photos and videos too! 

Designed to take pictures in the great outdoors, this camera from Panasonic boasts breathtaking images thanks to its excellent sensor. It can take super-fast shots with precision and accuracy, giving you a better chance of capturing the moments even if you only have a second's notice. Even the autofocus comes in around 0.04 seconds!

There are plenty of modes to take advantage of, from macro photography, to a high-resolution setting that pushes the camera to incredible lengths. However, one pretty glaring problem is the lack of a lens. So, expect additional costs post-purchase. 

Last, but by no means least, we have the Sony A600. This camera has plenty of excellent features, especially the APS-C CMOS 23.5 x 15.6 mm sensor, which is up there with the best in the game! It has a high megapixel count and, while the filming isn't quite elite, it offers more than enough for your average user.

So, you might be asking then - how come it's propping up the ranking? Well, there are a few issues to contend with. For example, there is no touch screen, which can make using the camera feel a little outdated. Furthermore, the autofocus is somewhat frustrating to use as well.