Point and shoot cameras are not the perfect replacement for DSLR cameras, but they are quite capable of meeting the needs of casual photographers. These compact sized cameras are ideal for those who want all the features of latest smartphone cameras with little more advancement in another equipment form.
The point and shoot cameras come in different models with different price ranges. But if you need a high-end compact camera, then the cameras under $500 are best to purchase. They are small in size, offer better optical zooms, have better optical image stabilization feature and large LCDs, and record 4K Ultra HD videos with surround sound.
In this article, we have come up with the best 5 point and shoot cameras that you can purchase under $500. They are best when we talk about the features and quite capable of producing high-quality images with minimal levels of noise and blur even in low-lighting conditions.
Related Guide: Top 5 Best Point and Shoot Cameras under $300
Best Point & Shoot Camera Under $500
1. Sony RX100 20.2 MP Premium Compact Digital Camera
One of the best point and shoot cameras available under $500 is the Sony RX100 digital camera. It has a large 1-inch, 20.2MP Exmor CMOS sensor that reproduces excellent quality images with great details and minimal levels of noise even in low lighting conditions.
The camera is equipped with a new F1.8 Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T Lens with a 3.6x zoom feature. Also, its great ISO sensitivity range captures bright images in any lighting environment.
The RX100 also allows doing RAW image shooting, offers a full range of controls for imaging and video recording, and captures 1080/60p Full HD videos at 60 frames per second.
The other features of the camera include high-speed Auto Focus, four focusing modes, 3-inch LCD, superior auto mode, and Steady-Shot Image Stabilization.
Pros
- Low-light ISO 6400 sensitivity
- Face detection technology
- Multi-frame noise reduction
- 3-inch fine LCD
Cons
- Long distance focusing in the dark is not great
2. Sony DSC-HX99 Compact Digital 18.2 MP Camera
If you need the most robust point and shoot camera, then go for the Sony DSC-HX99. It is not only a waterproof camera, but also it is Shockproof, Temperature Extremes, X-Ray Proof. It is best for travelers and hard-working photographers.
Its the world's smallest one camera with 24-720mm zoom lens. Its high-speed lens is all about producing detailed and blur-free photos even when the focusing subjects are in motion. Moreover, the specialized advanced BIONZ X image-processing system shoots bright images in low lighting conditions with minimal levels of noise.
The camera is also featured with Wi-Fi connectivity, Ultra HD 4K videos, action track sensors, and useful macro modes.
Pros
- Camera with 24-720mm zoom lens
- Time-lapse recording
- 4K3 videos
- high-contrast OLED electronic viewfinder
Cons
- GPS linkage function is not great
3. Nikon W300 Waterproof Underwater Digital Camera
Another most robust digital camera that you can consider buying is the Nikon W300. It is also waterproof down to 100 feet, freezeproof down to -14C, shockproof up to 7.9 feet, and dustproof.
The camera captures stunning photos; thanks to the 16MP backside illuminated CMOS sensor and f/2.8 NIKKOR zoom lens equipped with Hybrid VR. It also has speedy autofocus and high-speed continuous shooting that allows you to shoot every scene with ease. Moreover, its 5x optical zoom lens is capable of producing amazing close-ups.
The W300 also records 4K Ultra HD videos with stereo sound. Moreover, the large 3.0-inch LCD is perfect for reviewing the shots even in the bright light.
Other features include Onboard GPS, eCompass, built-in bright LED light, and action friendly control.
Pros
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
- Time-lapse recording
- 5x optical zoom lens
- Waterproof down to 100 feet
Cons
- No raw shooting
- Low battery life
Point and Shoot Cameras under $500 – Buyer’s Guide
When going to purchase a point and shoot camera, the first thing that you need to focus on is the LCD screen. Viewfinders are also best to have and an advanced option, but if your budget is under $500, LCD is best to have. But make sure that the LCD screen resolution is up to the mark. Also, it is necessary to select those screens that are large. 3.0-inch LCD is perfect for recording videos and reviewing the shots.
The sensor size of the camera also matters the most. Large image sensors are perfect for capturing bright photos in low-lighting conditions. So, it is always best to select those cameras that can benefit you in low light. But if you want to play with a zoom feature and want a powerful zoom, choose the camera that has a smaller sensor.
Also, always prefer optical zoom lens camera. Digital zoom always offers excellent zooming range but they are not fit for best image quality.
The durability of the camera is another factor that you should consider before buying the camera under $500. It is ideal to have those cameras that are waterproof, shockproof, freezeproof, and dustproof. If you love to travel and capture photos in extreme conditions, always select those cameras that are durable and can work in any extreme environmental condition.
Image stabilization feature is also essential because everyone wants to capture photos and videos without the blur and noise effects. So, make sure that you are going with the camera that has an optical image stabilization feature rather than the digital one.
Connectivity options are also best to have in your camera. Many cameras offer built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity options. Also, some cameras offer Bluetooth connectivity. So, it is always better to have these options in your camera for easy sharing of the images and videos.
Also, in this article, we will discuss what things you have to keep in mind before buying the best camera under $500.
