The latest point-and-shoot cameras might be small in form, but this doesn’t mean that they skimp on functions. These diminutive CSC (compact system camera) models pack in features that can be found on higher-end mirrorless and DSLR bodies, at a fraction of the size.
Their pocketable proportions and ease-of-use make them the ultimate minimalist travel accessory for content creators and documenters alike. Check out these five compact point-and-shoot cameras that deserve a spot in your minimalist travel carry.
Fujifilm X100F
The Fujifilm X100F has built somewhat of a cult following amongst street and travel photographers who favor its retro styling, hybrid rangefinder, and 24-megapixel APS-C-sized sensor. This Fuji model boasts a fixed 23mm F2 lens, which provides a full-frame focal length equivalent of approximately 35mm – the gold standard of street photography. Using this camera is a wonderfully analog, tactile experience, as the controls for ISO and shutter speed all sit atop the camera, while the aperture is changed by clicking the lens ring.
Add in Fuji’s trademark pleasing color renditions, and you’ve got a minimalist point-and-shoot that produces gorgeous images no matter what the conditions.
Price: $1299
Ricoh GR3
The Ricoh GR3 is one of the more truly minimal cameras on the market right now. At only 257g, it’s a camera you can really slip right into a jacket pocket without worrying about it being conspicuous. It does away with a viewfinder to save on space but includes a welcome USB-C port for quick charging, as well a responsive 3-inch touchscreen with an intuitive menu system.
The fixed 28mm F2.8 lens, 24.2mp APS-C sensor, hybrid autofocus and Shake Reduction all aid the Ricoh in capturing crisp, detailed travel scenes.
Price: $899
Sony RX100 MkVI
The Sony RX100 MkVI might be one of the most feature-packed cameras on this list. For an RRP of $1199, you get a mighty impressive 24-200mm zoom lens, 4K recording, class-leading autofocus and a burst shooting rate of up to 24 frames per second.
Bear in mind that because this is Sony’s 6th iteration in the RX100 range, you could look at the MkV and MkIV if you don’t need the laundry list of features on the latest model. As an all-rounder, however, this camera can’t be beaten.
Price: $1199
Canon G7X MkII
With the G7X MkII, you get trademark Canon dependability. This is a solid camera with a no-frills feature set – the 20-megapixel 1-inch sensor (the same size as the Sony RX100 series) and the F2.8 zoom lens is capable of producing sharp shots in good lighting. Much like the RX100VI, it’s an excellent camera for hybrid shooters – shooters looking to capture both video and photo.
The flip-up screen has earned this camera a loyal audience amongst vloggers, allowing you to check your framing before hitting record. It might be one of the more dated cameras on this list, but there’s a good reason why Canon has sold this model by the bucketloads.
Price: $699
Panasonic Lumix LX100 II
The Panasonic Lumix LX100 II sports a 24-75mm zoom lens with a variable aperture of F1.7 - F2.8. The 17-megapixel micro four-thirds sensor hits something of a sweet spot between the smaller 1-inch sensor models and the APS-C sized sensors, with the result being a camera that’s a joy to shoot with.
The autofocus is stellar, as it uses the same AF system found on Panasonic’s higher-end M4/3 bodies. You can expect relatively snappy focusing on this diminutive body in both stills and video modes. On the subject of the video – even though you get a 4K recording, you might want to use it sparingly, as 4K mode crops the recording area, giving you a more zoomed-in frame than what you get when capturing stills.
Despite the video limitations, this model is still well worth a look if you’re on the hunt for a minimalist, go-everywhere travel camera.
Price: $999
There’s an undeniable joy that comes from creating content using gear that allows you to be efficient on the move. If you’re looking to splash out on a minimalist point-and-shoot, you won’t go wrong by choosing any of the cameras on this list.
Written by Stuart Hendricks