Editor's Choice - Our Favorite Ruggedized Digital Cameras

1. Canon EOS M50 Mirrorless Camera Kit w/EF-M15-45mm and 4K Video - Black with LaCie Rugged SSD 500GB S...

User Ratings: 80 4

Canon First Impressions

"I LOVE that feature."

Low light seems to be better than the GH4 or G7. Extra batteries are very handy. Definitely best camera on the mirrorless market. As an old pro I therefore wanted a second body. Even the focus lock button on Canon lenses can be customized.

  • Canon EOS M50 Mirrorless Camera Kit w/EF-M15-45mm and 4K Video - Black with LaCie Rugged SSD 500GB Solid State Drive
  • Dual Pixel CMOS AF for fast, accurate autofocus that helps you get the photo you want right as the moment happens
  • 24.1 Megapixel APS C CMOS sensor and the DIGIC 8 Image Processor delivers incredible color, clear details, and stunning range
  • Sprint through projects with a 500GB portable SSD Drive that harnesses Seagate FireCuda NV Me speeds of up to 950MB/s for 4K footage
  • Tackle any terrain with extreme IP67-rated water resistance as well as dust, three-meter drop, and two-ton car crush resistance
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Canon
  • Battery Life
  • Picture Quality
  • Picture Quality
  • Quality
  • Value For Money
  • Affordability

Canon Final Thoughts

"Went with this."

Fast or continuous autofocus. The grip is excellent for medium and large hands. Dynamic range on this camera is also very impressive. This really shouldn't stop you from buying this Canon . This really shouldn't stop you from buying this Canon .

Overall Score
4.6


(530 Points)

Peoples Choice - Other Highly Rated Ruggedized Digital Cameras

2. Panasonic Lumix FZ300 Long Zoom Digital Camera Features 12.1 Megapixel, 1/2.3-Inch Sensor, 4K Video,...

User Ratings: 78 3

Panasonic DMC-FZ300K First Impressions

"Very worth the buy."

While the 24-70 seems good, I can’t wait for a new Panasonic DMC-FZ300K. If you're a casual photographer, you can't beat this price, get it now. The Panasonic DMC-FZ300K is small and fast. This is the perfect compromise camera for me. I recommend this camera to those looking for an all in one camera.

  • Panasonic Lumix FZ300 Long Zoom Digital Camera Features 12.1 Megapixel, 1/2.3-Inch Sensor, 4K Video, WiFi, Splash & Dustproof Camera Body, Leica DC 24X F2.8 Zoom Lens - DMC-FZ300K - (Black) USA
  • 4K video & 4K photo : Panasonic’s exclusive 4K photo technology uses 30 frames per second in high resolution 4K ultra HD video to extract them as photos; You’ll never miss that moment again
  • Leica DC Vario Elmarit lens : 24x zoom (25 600millimeter with Full zoom range F2; 8 aperture for enhanced low light shooting meeting the stringent quality standards established by Leica
  • High image Quality : The 12.1 Megapixel high sensitivity MOS sensor with the venus engine excels in diffraction compensation, yielding images that are crisp & Free from artifacts associated with small aperture settings
  • Rugged Camera Design : Splash Proof/dustProof rugged camera design with tight seals on every Joint, dial and button, so it stands up to harsh weather conditions and challenging
  • 5 Axis Hybrid Optical Image Stabilizer Plus : Reduces blur from one handed video shooting by compensating for five types of movement; Level shot function detects horizon line & maintains it, even if the camera is tilted
  • Batteries: 1 Lithium ion batteries required. (included)
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Panasonic DMC-FZ300K
  • Battery Life
  • Picture Quality
  • Ease Of Use
  • Quality
  • Value For Money
  • Affordability

Panasonic DMC-FZ300K Final Thoughts

"Do use the handstrap!"

Color and white balance is generally good. The initial charge using the Panasonic DMC-FZ300K to charge the battery took about 2 hours. The zoom is incredible as well. I’m now wading through the manual before heading out to shoot photos. Manual focus would've been nice.

Overall Score
4.6


(473 Points)

3. PANASONIC LUMIX FZ300 Long Zoom Digital Camera Features 12.1 Megapixel, 1/2.3-inch Sensor & Dustproo...

User Ratings: 78 3

Panasonic First Impressions

"I also could afford it."

This is the perfect compromise camera for me. Me and my husband have planned a trip to Bahamas. During my search, I discovered that the Panasonic was about to be released. I can't wait to try it out at the zoo. Plus I have various DSLRs and a beautiful Panasonic.

  • PANASONIC LUMIX FZ300 Long Zoom Digital Camera Features 12.1 Megapixel, 1/2.3-inch Sensor & Dustproof Camera Body, Leica DC 24X F2.8 Zoom Lens & MegaGear ''Ultra Light'' Neoprene Camera Case Bag
  • 4K video & 4K PHOTO - Panasonic’s exclusive 4K PHOTO technology uses 30 frames per second in high resolution 4K Ultra HD video to extract them as photos. You’ll never miss that moment again
  • Leica DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens - 24x zoom (25-600mm) with full zoom range F2. 8 aperture for enhanced low light shooting meeting the stringent quality standards established by Leica
  • High image quality - The 12. 1-Megapixel high sensitivity MOS sensor with the Venus engine excels in diffraction compensation, yielding images that are crisp & free from artifacts associated with small aperture settings
  • Rugged camera design - splash proof/dustproof rugged camera design with tight seals on every joint, dial and button, so it stands up to harsh weather conditions and challenging
  • Protective and high quality Neoprene material and foam padding for protection. Protects camera from dust, dirt, scratches, bumps, and moisture
  • Handmade stitches design for a unique look. Available in different colors
  • Fine quality of moisture resistant Neoprene used
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Panasonic
  • Battery Life
  • Picture Quality
  • Ease Of Use
  • Quality
  • Value For Money
  • Affordability

Panasonic Final Thoughts

"I can carry it anywhere!"

The Panasonic has many features which are very easy to use and get to. Its small and very comfortable to hold and use, which is great cuz I have small hands. Excellent two characteristics in a Ruggedized Digital Camera. Everything about it is solid and satisfying. My old SX700 that was serviceable for years finally gave up and failed.

Overall Score
4.6


(473 Points)

4. Panasonic LUMIX GH5 4K Digital Camera, 20.3 Megapixel Mirrorless Camera and Summilux 10-25mm, F1.7 A...

User Ratings: 85 2

Panasonic First Impressions

"Great purchase."

Since this is a new camera not all Panasonic accessories will work. Button feeling and placement is great. They're a good choice for all around work. The ergonomics are perfect. The Panasonic is by far my favorite camera since the Nikon D700.

  • Panasonic LUMIX GH5 4K Digital Camera, 20.3 Megapixel Mirrorless Camera and Summilux 10-25mm, F1.7 ASPH. Lens
  • PROFESSIONAL PHOTO & VIDEO: 20.3 megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor with no low pass filter to capture sharp images with a high dynamic range and artifact free performance
  • SPLASH/FREEZEPROOF DESIGN: Freeze proof to -10 degrees the durable magnesium alloy body withstands heavy use in the field; Splash/Dust proof construction with weather sealing on every joint, dial and button
  • Leica DG vario summilux ; Leica camera ag’s strict quality standards optimized for photo/video has been developed into this ruggedized Mirrorless micro Four Thirds mount lens
  • F1.7 full range : F.17 high speed aperture brightness is available across the entire zoom range of 10 to 25 millimeter
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Panasonic
  • Battery Life
  • Picture Quality
  • Picture Quality
  • Quality
  • Value For Money
  • Affordability

Panasonic Final Thoughts

"Hands down."

I doubled down and ordered a second body. So, when Panasonic came, I purchased it immediately. Simply because they just use the kit lenses the cameras come with. I've only touched in certain points there's so much more. That being said I just love to travel and taking pics as a hobby.

Overall Score
4.7


(159 Points)

Honorable Mentions - More Top Selling Ruggedized Digital Cameras

5. Sony a7R III Mirrorless Camera: 42.4MP Full Frame High Resolution Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Di...

User Ratings: 82 3

Sony First Impressions

"No dislikes."

I took a 3 hour workshop on how to use the camera and I am good to go. Took this camera on our family vacation to Utah national parks. I would highly recommend this Sony and bundle. 5 years I've gotten to know this groundbreaking Ruggedized Digital Camera well. I've had the Sony for about two weeks now and it's been great!

  • Sony a7R III Mirrorless Camera: 42.4MP Full Frame High Resolution Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera with LaCie Rugged SSD 1TB Solid State Drive
  • INCREDIBLE DETAIL: Shoot high speed subjects at up to 10fps with continuous, accurate AF/AE tracking
  • OPTIMAL LIGHT: A back illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor with gapless on chip lens collects more light. Operating Temperature: 32 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit / 0 to 40 degrees Celsius
  • Sprint through projects with a 1TB Portable SSD Drive that harnesses Seagate FireCuda NV Me speeds of up to 950MB/s for 4K footage
  • Tackle any terrain with extreme IP67-rated water resistance as well as dust, three-meter drop, and two-ton car crush resistance
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Sony
  • Battery Life
  • Picture Quality
  • Ergonomics
  • Quality
  • Value For Money
  • Affordability

Sony Final Thoughts

"Pictures look good."

I mean, I still shoot film with my old F3 and FE and push film. This Sony is built tough. I use it with my one year old Sony lens. Basically, when doing astro-photography. My family pictures will be great from now on.

Overall Score
4.6


(145 Points)

6. Panasonic LUMIX G85MK 4K Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera Kit, 12-60mm Lens, Lexar U3 64GB Mem...

User Ratings: 73 2

Panasonic DMC-G85MK Ritz Camera Deluxe Kit First Impressions

"Plenty of features."

The rest of the bundle seems okay. I wouldn't trade this camera for anything! The longer you have it, the more small issues you find. I'm also really enjoying the Panasonic film simulation. The Panasonic DMC-G85MK Ritz Camera Deluxe Kit's build quality is excellent.

  • Panasonic LUMIX G85MK 4K Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera Kit, 12-60mm Lens, Lexar U3 64GB Memory Card, 2 Spare Batteries, Charger, Bag and Accessory Bundle
  • Less bulky than a DSLR, the LUMIX G85 is the compact 4K video-enabled Micro Four Thirds Mirrorless (DSLM) camera with true-to-life photo image quality.
  • Class leading 5-axis body stabilization that when mated to LUMIX 2-axis optically stabilized lenses for a “Dual IS” effect.
  • 4K Video recording at 30p/24p 100 Mbps plus a 3.5mm port for external microphones. (Full HD 60p 28Mbps)
  • Weather sealed splash proof and dustproof, rugged enough to withstand even the most challenging environments.
  • FREE Panasonic TRIPLE YOUR WARRANTY Bonus Offer, extends your 1 year warranty to 3 years -- Panasonic LUMIX DMC-G85MK RITZ CAMERA BUNDLE INCLUDES 13 ITEMS -- ALL BRAND NEW ITEMS WITH ALL MANUFACTURER-SUPPLIED ACCESSORIES + FULL USA WARRANTIES
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Panasonic DMC-G85MK Ritz Camera Deluxe Kit
  • Battery Life
  • Picture Quality
  • Picture Quality
  • Quality
  • Value For Money
  • Affordability

Panasonic DMC-G85MK Ritz Camera Deluxe Kit Final Thoughts

"It's the lenses."

The flash feels lighter than my Andoer flash for my other camera. Secondly the EVF is amazing amazing amazing. The flash feels lighter than my Andoer flash for my other camera. I still can tolerate that by just working on selected photos. Higher ISO produces very usable images, even at ISO 12800.

Overall Score
4.6


(110 Points)

7. Canon Rebel SL3 with 18-55mm Lens Black with LaCie Rugged SSD 500GB Solid State Drive

User Ratings: 84 1

Canon First Impressions

"The bundle is perfect."

It sucks up way more battery life than the D7100/D7200. The read/write speed is seriously blazing fast. But that's what this entry level camera is all about. Absolutely great Ruggedized Digital Camera for the price. I got it at the best price for this kit.

  • Canon Rebel SL3 with 18-55mm Lens Black with LaCie Rugged SSD 500GB Solid State Drive
  • Lightest, smallest EOS DSLR camera*.
  • High image quality with 24. 1 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor.
  • Sprint through projects with a 500GB portable SSD Drive that harnesses Seagate FireCuda NV Me speeds of up to 950MB/s for 4K footage
  • Tackle any terrain with extreme IP67-rated water resistance as well as dust, three-meter drop, and two-ton car crush resistance
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Canon
  • Battery Life
  • Picture Quality
  • Ergonomics
  • Quality
  • Value For Money
  • Affordability

Canon Final Thoughts

"Solid deal."

I've been more than happy with this Ruggedized Digital Camera. First four pictures I took and they came out great! The colors of course are very good as expected, and here is a surprise. I finally decided I liked the features of the Canon line. Canon still services this camera.

Overall Score
4.7


(86 Points)

8. PANASONIC LUMIX G9 4K Digital Camera, 20.3 Megapixel Mirrorless Camera plus 80 Megapixel High-Resolu...

User Ratings: 82 5

Panasonic DC-G9KBODY First Impressions

"I love is Ruggedized Digital Camera."

Dynamic range on this camera is also very impressive. Does wonderfully with night shots handheld. The Panasonic DC-G9KBODY phase and contrast system has it beat. In practice, the Panasonic DC-G9KBODY produces superlative images. And I wish the Panasonic lenses were a bit cheaper.

  • PANASONIC LUMIX G9 4K Digital Camera, 20.3 Megapixel Mirrorless Camera plus 80 Megapixel High-Resolution Mode, 5-Axis Dual I.S. 2.0, 3-Inch LCD, DC-G9 (Black)
  • Professional photo and video performance 20.3-Megapixel (Plus 80-megapixel high-resolution Jpeg/raw in-camera image) micro Four Thirds sensor with no low pass filter to confidently capture sharp images with a high Dynamic Range and artifact-free performance
  • Rugged splash/freeze proof design Durable magnesium alloy body withstands heavy use out in the field and is freeze proof down to -10-degrees splash/dustproof construction with weather sealing on every joint dial and button
  • Class-leading dual image stabilization 5-axis Dual image stabilization corrects all lenses including classic lenses not equipped with O I S to eliminate Blur and nearly eliminate body and lens shake in both photo and 4K video recording
  • 4K 60P video 4:2:2 10bit & slow-motion effects silky-smooth 4K 60P recording (QFHD 4K 3840 x 2160/MP4) in 4 2 2 10bit high-speed video recording yields a dramatic slow-motion effect in 4K (60 fps max 2x slower [30P playback]) or full HD (180 fps max 6x slower [30P playback]) quality
  • Connectivity and ports listen to headphones with a 3 5mm audio port connect to devices with USB 3.0 and connect to an external monitor or external Recorder with a full-size HDMI port available Twin SD card slots (UHS-II U3 compatible)
  • Batteries: 1 Lithium ion batteries required. (included)
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Panasonic DC-G9KBODY
  • Battery Life
  • Picture Quality
  • Picture Quality
  • Quality
  • Value For Money
  • Affordability

Panasonic DC-G9KBODY Final Thoughts

"Not major."

I wouldn't trade this camera for anything! Really great, even in low light with f/4 lenses. Dynamic range on this camera is also very impressive. Overall, its a great deal, with the body and lenses alone. Really great, even in low light with f/4 lenses.

Overall Score
4.6


(72 Points)

9. Sony Alpha 7R IV Full-Frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera (ILCE7RM4/B) with LaCie Rugged SS...

User Ratings: 74 10

Sony First Impressions

"Truly impressive."

Still getting used to the buttons. And, the EVF stayed in my bag nearly the entire trip. Low Light video is very well done. So having a backup battery is what I would consider a must. Especially for astrophotography.

  • Sony Alpha 7R IV Full-Frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera (ILCE7RM4/B) with LaCie Rugged SSD 1TB Solid State Drive
  • Stunning resolution: world’s first 61MP full frame 35 millimeter back-illuminated Exmore R CMOS Image Sensor
  • High speed: up to 10Fps continuous shooting at 61MP with AE/AF tracking; 26. 2MP in APS C crop mode
  • Sprint through projects with a 1TB Portable SSD Drive that harnesses Seagate FireCuda NV Me speeds of up to 950MB/s for 4K footage
  • Tackle any terrain with extreme IP67-rated water resistance as well as dust, three-meter drop, and two-ton car crush resistance
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Sony
  • Battery Life
  • Picture Quality
  • Picture Quality
  • Quality
  • Value For Money
  • Affordability

Sony Final Thoughts

"FAST shutter!"

Extra batteries are very handy. Best Ruggedized Digital Camera on the market right now. Several things keep it from getting 5 stars, however. But I like to see a Sony GM lenses. Even with the lens, battery and SD card, it weighs very little.

Overall Score
4.3


(71 Points)

10. Panasonic LUMIX GH5 4K Mirrorless Camera with Leica DG 12-60mm Lens and Accessory Bundle

User Ratings: 82 12

Panasonic DC-GH5LK First Impressions

"That's it."

The Panasonic DC-GH5LK was with me at all times. It came with all the products it describes. This really shouldn't stop you from buying this Panasonic DC-GH5LK. I still can tolerate that by just working on selected photos. In spite of all the motion on my end, the pictures were sharp.

  • Panasonic LUMIX GH5 4K Mirrorless Camera with Leica DG 12-60mm Lens and Accessory Bundle
  • BUNDLE INCLUDES: Panasonic LUMIX GH5 4K Mirrorless Camera with Leica DG 12-60mm f/2.8-4.0 Lens, Sony 64GB SD Card, Koah Battery and Dual Charger Pack, DSLR Shoulder Gadget Bag, and Lightweight On-Camera Microphone
  • 20.3MP DIGITAL LIVE MOS SENSOR: This Lumix GH5 is equipped with a powerful Digital Live MOS sensor, capable of rendering high quality 20.3MP images. Together with the removal of the low-pass filter from the sensor, you can confidently capture sharp images with a high dynamic range and artefact free. Since there’s no filter to block low-frequency light waves, every image you capture will possess vivid colors and an incredible level of detail from edge to edge
  • VENUS ENGINE PROCESSOR: The Combination of an advanced Digital Live MOS sensor and the Venus Engine 10 produces extraordinary color detail and natural texture expression. The Intelligent Detail Processing renders intense brightness and contrast. The three-dimensional color control zings with rich colors from dark to bright shades and high-precision Multi Process NR makes your images pop even at high ISO sensitivity settings
  • RUGGED SPLASH/DUST/FREEZEPROOF DESIGN: The diecast, magnesium alloy frame of the Panasonic Lumix GH5 4K is compact and lightweight yet extremely durable. When it comes to construction quality, this micro-four thirds camera body is built like a tank. It’s freezeproof down to -10 degrees and features weather sealing in every joint, dial and button so it’s also splashproof and dustproof
  • PANASONIC AUTHORIZED DEALER: Includes USA Manufacturer Guarantee
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Panasonic DC-GH5LK
  • Battery Life
  • Picture Quality
  • Picture Quality
  • Quality
  • Value For Money
  • Affordability

Panasonic DC-GH5LK Final Thoughts

"This isn't one of them."

Been using the Panasonic DC-GH5LK for about 2 weeks now with no issues. I was able to get some great shots of my dog running full speed. It came with all the products it describes. The camera is fast, sharp, and most important to me - light. As an old pro I therefore wanted a second body.

Overall Score
4.4


(64 Points)

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