Editor's Choice - Our Favorite Digital Cameras Under $300

1. Canon PowerShot A2500 16MP Digital Camera with 5x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom with 2.7-Inch LCD (B...

User Ratings: 64 5

Canon 8253B001 First Impressions

"That is a bargain."

Overall good camera and value but needs improvements in the hardware. It's got pretty much everything I could want in a Digital Camera. Fast shipping and everything packaged nicely. This is the perfect compromise camera for me. It took me a while to figure it out.

  • Canon PowerShot A2500 16MP Digital Camera with 5x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom with 2.7-Inch LCD (Black)
  • ECO Mode to reduce power consumption
  • Capture impressive 720p HD video in stereo sound with a dedicated movie button
  • 16 megapixel, 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor and Canon DIGIC 4 image processor deliver enhanced image quality
  • 5x optical zoom and 28mm wide-angle lens with Digital Image Stabilizer
  • Smart Auto intelligently selects the proper settings based on 32 predefined shooting situations
  • USB cable not included
  • Batteries: Lithium Metal batteries required. (included)
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Canon 8253B001
  • Battery Life
  • Picture Quality
  • Ease Of Use
  • Quality
  • Value For Money
  • Affordability

Canon 8253B001 Final Thoughts

"The battery was awesome."

I just love how easy it is to get good looking shots. The initial charge using the Canon 8253B001 to charge the battery took about 2 hours. This camera has so many features for its size. That is the reason I bought this Canon 8253B001. My old SX700 that was serviceable for years finally gave up and failed.

Overall Score
4.3


(1482 Points)

Peoples Choice - Other Highly Rated Digital Cameras Under $300

2. Canon PowerShot A2500 16MP Digital Camera with 5x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom with 2.7-Inch LCD (S...

User Ratings: 64 5

Canon 8254B001 First Impressions

"Quality."

I did buy some rechargeable batteries to use in it. Me and my husband have planned a trip to Bahamas. In some reviews this Canon 8254B001 is said to be heavy. I bought this camera right before I went on vacation to Hawaii. If you're a casual photographer, you can't beat this price, get it now.

  • Canon PowerShot A2500 16MP Digital Camera with 5x Optical Image Stabilized Zoom with 2.7-Inch LCD (Silver) (OLD MODEL)
  • ECO Mode to reduce power consumption
  • Capture impressive 720p HD video in stereo sound with a dedicated movie button
  • 16 megapixel, 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor and Canon DIGIC 4 image processor deliver enhanced image quality
  • 5x optical zoom and 28mm wide-angle lens with Digital Image Stabilizer
  • Smart Auto intelligently selects the proper settings based on 32 predefined shooting situations
  • USB cable not included
  • Batteries: Lithium Metal batteries required. (included)
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Canon 8254B001
  • Battery Life
  • Picture Quality
  • Ease Of Use
  • Quality
  • Value For Money
  • Affordability

Canon 8254B001 Final Thoughts

"All on Auto."

Only downside is recovery after each shot, however rest of features make up for it. A great camera for the money and my needs! So glad I chose the Canon 8254B001. I’m now wading through the manual before heading out to shoot photos. I get great photos, and it does not take long to import them to my laptop.

Overall Score
4.3


(1482 Points)

3. Panasonic Lumix FZ80 4K Digital Camera, 18.1 Megapixel Video Camera, 60X Zoom DC VARIO 20-1200mm Len...

User Ratings: 64 8

Panasonic DC-FZ80K First Impressions

"Plenty of features."

Low Light video is very well done. Secondly the EVF is amazing amazing amazing. The Panasonic DC-FZ80K is an awesome camera as most already know. The focus speed in general is so much faster and more reliable. Switching back and forth between photo and video is cumbersome.

  • Panasonic Lumix FZ80 4K Digital Camera, 18.1 Megapixel Video Camera, 60X Zoom DC VARIO 20-1200mm Lens, F2.8-5.9 Aperture, Power O.I.S. Stabilization, Touch Enabled 3-Inch LCD, Wi-Fi, DC-FZ80K (Black)
  • Point and Shoot Long Zoom Camera : 18.1 megapixel MOS sensor plus 60X zoom DC Vario lens (20 1220millimeter and Power O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) captures far off moments
  • High Resolution View Finder & LCD Display: High resolution 1,170K dot view finder and rear touch enabled 3 inch LCD Display (1040 dots) are clear even in bright sunlight.Lens:14 elements in 12 groups
  • 4K video Capture: 4K QFHD video recording (3840 x 2160) with three unique 4K ultra HD video pause and save 4K photo modes extracts individual high resolution Photos from 4K ultra HD video filmed at 30 frames per second to capture split second moments
  • Low Light Performance : Low light capture lets you enjoy photography during your nightlife again with impressive results; Note : Refer to user manual PDF attached below in technical specification for trouble shooting steps are on page 54
  • USB Charging and WiFi Connectivity: Enjoy Travel Ready technologies like USB charging and Wi Fi connectivity to your mobile device; HDMI D (Micro), Micro USB and USB 2.0 provide additional connectivity to Your favorite devices; Max resolution:4896 x 3672
  • Batteries: 1 Lithium ion batteries required. (included)
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Panasonic DC-FZ80K
  • Battery Life
  • Picture Quality
  • Picture Quality
  • Quality
  • Value For Money
  • Affordability

Panasonic DC-FZ80K Final Thoughts

"Love this guy."

It is light and easy to carry with you. Only gripes are slow focus and short battery life. Mirrorless has come into it's own. The Panasonic DC-FZ80K was with me at all times. I will be upgrading to a better lens when finances allow.

Overall Score
4.3


(1466 Points)

4. Panasonic Lumix FZ80 4K Digital Camera, 18.1 Megapixel Video Camera, 60X Zoom DC VARIO 20-1200mm Len...

User Ratings: 64 8

Panasonic DC-FZ80K First Impressions

"Camera works just fine."

I will update this report once I have used it more. If you receive an error message to turn off and then on remove the lens cap. I haven't tried the macro shots yet, but will update this review when I get too. I did buy some rechargeable batteries to use in it. Excellent two characteristics in a Digital Camera.

  • Panasonic Lumix FZ80 4K Digital Camera, 18.1 Megapixel Video Camera, 60X Zoom DC VARIO 20-1200mm Lens, F2.8-5.9 Aperture, Power O.I.S. Stabilization, Touch Enabled 3-Inch LCD, Wi-Fi, DC-FZ80K (Black)
  • Point and Shoot Long Zoom Camera : 18.1 megapixel MOS sensor plus 60X zoom DC Vario lens (20 1220millimeter and Power O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) captures far off moments
  • High Resolution View Finder & LCD Display: High resolution 1,170K dot view finder and rear touch enabled 3 inch LCD Display (1040 dots) are clear even in bright sunlight.Lens:14 elements in 12 groups
  • 4K video Capture: 4K QFHD video recording (3840 x 2160) with three unique 4K ultra HD video pause and save 4K photo modes extracts individual high resolution Photos from 4K ultra HD video filmed at 30 frames per second to capture split second moments
  • Low Light Performance : Low light capture lets you enjoy photography during your nightlife again with impressive results; Note : Refer to user manual PDF attached below in technical specification for trouble shooting steps are on page 54
  • USB Charging and WiFi Connectivity: Enjoy Travel Ready technologies like USB charging and Wi Fi connectivity to your mobile device; HDMI D (Micro), Micro USB and USB 2.0 provide additional connectivity to Your favorite devices; Max resolution:4896 x 3672
  • Batteries: 1 Lithium ion batteries required. (included)
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Panasonic DC-FZ80K
  • Battery Life
  • Picture Quality
  • Ease Of Use
  • Quality
  • Value For Money
  • Affordability

Panasonic DC-FZ80K Final Thoughts

"It's range is awesome."

I bought this Digital Camera for a trip I'm taking abroad in February. They make it look like I know what I'm doing. Only downside is recovery after each shot, however rest of features make up for it. The zoom and autofocus makes it easy. But overall It is worth to buy and I totally recommend you to buy this bundle.

Overall Score
4.3


(1465 Points)

Honorable Mentions - More Top Selling Digital Cameras Under $300

5. Panasonic Lumix FZ80 4K Digital Camera, 18.1 Megapixel Video Camera, 60X Zoom DC VARIO 20-1200mm Len...

User Ratings: 64 8

Panasonic DC-FZ80K First Impressions

"Now about this Camera."

Best price, fast delivery and good support in case something goes wrong. I've had the Panasonic DC-FZ80K for about two weeks now and it's been great! I use it as a backup camera to my Canon 7D mark II. 5 years I've gotten to know this groundbreaking Digital Camera well. The different modes are useful.

  • Panasonic Lumix FZ80 4K Digital Camera, 18.1 Megapixel Video Camera, 60X Zoom DC VARIO 20-1200mm Lens, F2.8-5.9 Aperture, Power O.I.S. Stabilization, Touch Enabled 3-Inch LCD, Wi-Fi, DC-FZ80K (Black)
  • Point and Shoot Long Zoom Camera : 18.1 megapixel MOS sensor plus 60X zoom DC Vario lens (20 1220millimeter and Power O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) captures far off moments
  • High Resolution View Finder & LCD Display: High resolution 1,170K dot view finder and rear touch enabled 3 inch LCD Display (1040 dots) are clear even in bright sunlight.Lens:14 elements in 12 groups
  • 4K video Capture: 4K QFHD video recording (3840 x 2160) with three unique 4K ultra HD video pause and save 4K photo modes extracts individual high resolution Photos from 4K ultra HD video filmed at 30 frames per second to capture split second moments
  • Low Light Performance : Low light capture lets you enjoy photography during your nightlife again with impressive results; Note : Refer to user manual PDF attached below in technical specification for trouble shooting steps are on page 54
  • USB Charging and WiFi Connectivity: Enjoy Travel Ready technologies like USB charging and Wi Fi connectivity to your mobile device; HDMI D (Micro), Micro USB and USB 2.0 provide additional connectivity to Your favorite devices; Max resolution:4896 x 3672
  • Batteries: 1 Lithium ion batteries required. (included)
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Panasonic DC-FZ80K
  • Battery Life
  • Picture Quality
  • Ergonomics
  • Quality
  • Value For Money
  • Affordability

Panasonic DC-FZ80K Final Thoughts

"Work Horse."

No focus peaking, even in live view. Again, slim margins for a lot of money. Very good camera for the size. The read/write speed is seriously blazing fast. Again, slim margins for a lot of money.

Overall Score
4.3


(1465 Points)

6. Canon PowerShot ELPH 300 HS 12.1 MP Digital Camera (Black)

User Ratings: 60 7

Canon 5096B001 First Impressions

"Shots were FANTASTIC!"

I don't really see a good excuse for that, wildlife photos may prove nearly impossible. While the 24-70 seems good, I can’t wait for a new Canon 5096B001. Everything about it is solid and satisfying. Everything about it is solid and satisfying. Auto-ISO is on the conservative side, which I would like to have more control over.

  • Canon PowerShot ELPH 300 HS 12.1 MP Digital Camera (Black)
  • World's thinnest digital camera with a 24mm ultra Wide-Angle lens and 5x Optical Zoom and Optical Image Stabilizer.
  • Canon's HS SYSTEM with a 12.1 MP CMOS and DIGIC 4 Image Processor improves shooting in low-light situations without the need for a flash
  • Full 1080p HD Video for exceptional quality with stereo sound, plus a dedicated movie button for easy access.
  • Get high-speed shooting in a point-and-shoot camera: High-speed Burst Mode captures 8.0fps and
  • Smart AUTO intelligently selects the proper settings for the camera based on 32 predefined shooting situations.
  • Super Slow Motion Movie records video at high speeds to allow slow motion playback.
  • Zoom optically while shooting video and keep footage stabilized with Dynamic IS.
  • And lowers noise levels at higher ISO settings.
  • Batteries: Lithium Metal batteries required. (included)
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Canon 5096B001
  • Battery Life
  • Picture Quality
  • Ease Of Use
  • Quality
  • Value For Money
  • Affordability

Canon 5096B001 Final Thoughts

"Decent battery life."

Every thing was fine except I would have liked a better memory card. Auto-ISO is on the conservative side, which I would like to have more control over. I don't really see a good excuse for that, wildlife photos may prove nearly impossible. A duck flying by very quickly skimming the water over Lake Washington. With a prime lens, zoom is one less thing you worry about.

Overall Score
4.2


(1299 Points)

7. Nikon COOLPIX B500 Digital Camera (Black)

User Ratings: 63 7

Nikon 26506 First Impressions

"All in one package."

No other Digital Camera of this size is fast and have the quality of this Nikon 26506. It wont replace a DSLR but it comers pretty close. The only problem I had was with the LCD screen. Fast shipping and everything packaged nicely. Lastly, the complaints about battery life are totally valid.

  • Nikon COOLPIX B500 Digital Camera (Black)
  • 16 megapixel 1/2.3 inches BSI CMOS Sensor
  • NIKKOR f/3.0 6.5 millimeter ED Lens
  • 22.5 900 millimeter (35 millimeter Equivalent)
  • 40x Optical Zoom Lens, 80x Dynamic Zoom
  • 3 inches 921k Dot Tilting LCD.Highest ISO Sensitivity:6400
  • Full HD 1080p Video Recording at 30 fps
  • Bluetooth (BLE), Wi Fi, NFC Connectivity
  • Batteries: 1 Lithium ion batteries required. (included)
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Nikon 26506
  • Battery Life
  • Picture Quality
  • Ease Of Use
  • Quality
  • Value For Money
  • Affordability

Nikon 26506 Final Thoughts

"Just kidding."

That is the reason I bought this Nikon 26506. Great deal on this camera package that includes lots of extras. Meh, life goes on, immediately ordered more batteries off Amazon. It's got pretty much everything I could want in a Digital Camera. After over 10,000 pictures, my Nikon 26506 operates perfectly in every aspect.

Overall Score
4.2


(821 Points)

8. Nikon COOLPIX B500 Digital Camera (Red)

User Ratings: 63 7

Nikon 26508 First Impressions

"Decent battery life."

Better photos than her XR phone. The recommended solution is to send in the camera for cleaning. The initial charge using the Nikon 26508 to charge the battery took about 2 hours. Fast shipping and everything packaged nicely. I will update this report once I have used it more.

  • Nikon COOLPIX B500 Digital Camera (Red)
  • ISO 6400, 74 fps Continuous Shooting. WiFi: Yes
  • 18 Scene Modes, Easy Auto Mode
  • Remote Control via Smartphone or Tablet Supplied with: Four LR6/L40 AA Alkaline Batteries, UC-E16 USB Cable, AN-CP21 Strap, LC-CP31 Lens Cap
  • 40x Optical Zoom Lens, 80x Dynamic Zoom
  • 3" 921k-Dot Tilting LCD
  • Batteries: 1 Lithium Metal batteries required. (included)
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Nikon 26508
  • Battery Life
  • Picture Quality
  • Ease Of Use
  • Quality
  • Value For Money
  • Affordability

Nikon 26508 Final Thoughts

"It looked good."

5 seconds to wait for auto focus is not going to kill me. I will update this report once I have used it more. I've researched this Nikon 26508 A LOT and I only heard great things. Where this Nikon 26508 really shines though is the video recording oddly enough. Full manual, Shutter Priority and Aperture Priority.

Overall Score
4.2


(821 Points)

9. Canon PowerShot SX420 is Digital Camera (Black) with 20MP, 42x Optical Zoom, 720p HD Video and Built...

User Ratings: 72 5

Canon SX420 BK K1 First Impressions

"So far, so good."

I'm still playing around with it. I'm still playing around with it. For me the upgrade was worth it as it had things I find extremely useful. Love that a strap, case and lens cover came with it, among other things. I was honestly surprised that I could find anything like this on Amazon.

  • Canon PowerShot SX420 is Digital Camera (Black) with 20MP, 42x Optical Zoom, 720p HD Video and Built-in Wi-Fi + 32GB Card + Reader + Spare Battery + Tripod + Digital Camera Accessory Bundle
  • Kit Includes: Canon PowerShot SX420 IS Digital Camera + NB-11LH Lithium-Ion Battery Pack + CB-2LF Battery Charger + Lens Cap + WS-DC12 Wrist Strap + Limited 1-Year Warranty (All these in Canon box)
  • + Padded Camera Case + Spare Battery + Gripster Tripod + The Imaging World Micro Fiber Cleaning Cloth
  • + 32GB 320x High-Speed SDHC Class 10 Memory Card + Card Reader + Memory Card Wallet + Vidpro Digital Camera Cleaning Kit
  • 20.0MP 1.2.3" CCD Image Sensor - DIGIC 4+ Image Processor - 42x Optical Zoom Lens - 24-1008mm (35mm Equivalent) - 3.0" 230k-Dot LCD Monitor
  • HD 720p Video Recording at 25 fps - Intelligent IS Image Stabilization - Built-In Wi-Fi with NFC - ISO 1600 and 2.2 fps Continuous Shooting - Smart AUTO and Scene Modes
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Canon SX420 BK K1
  • Battery Life
  • Picture Quality
  • Ease Of Use
  • Quality
  • Value For Money
  • Affordability

Canon SX420 BK K1 Final Thoughts

"It's a REAL camera."

Where this Canon SX420 BK K1 really shines though is the video recording oddly enough. I needed a Digital Camera with a sensor larger than what is on my smartphone. I like everything about the camera. Takes great low light & fireworks pictures. The image I've shared was taken from over 15 feet away with just the optical zoom.

Overall Score
4.4


(757 Points)

10. Canon PowerShot ELPH 115 16MP Digital Camera (Blue) (OLD MODEL)

User Ratings: 65 5

Canon 8605B001 First Impressions

"It packs a punch."

It took me a while to figure it out. Let me say from the start, I really like Canon. I don't really see a good excuse for that, wildlife photos may prove nearly impossible. I just love how easy it is to get good looking shots. Lastly, the complaints about battery life are totally valid.

  • Canon PowerShot ELPH 115 16MP Digital Camera (Blue) (OLD MODEL)
  • 16.0 MP sensor with DIGIC 4 Image Processor
  • 5x Optical Zoom with 28mm Wide-Angle lens with Digital IS to reduce camera shake
  • Smart AUTO with 32 predefined shooting modes
  • 720p HD video recording with a dedicated movie button
  • New ECO Mode to reduce power consumption
  • Batteries: 1 Lithium ion batteries required. (included)
  • Editor's Impressions Of The Canon 8605B001
  • Battery Life
  • Picture Quality
  • Ease Of Use
  • Quality
  • Value For Money
  • Affordability

Canon 8605B001 Final Thoughts

"Spectacular product!"

It’s taken its place as my go to camera, which is what I intended it for. The package is so small and light I barely notice it has a lens. After taking a photo, it would not focus or operate, or so it seemed. I was pretty skeptical buying another point and shoot. The stability at long zoom was fantastic.

Overall Score
4.3


(644 Points)

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