Thursday, October 19, 2017

What’s the best cheap compact camera with image stabilisation?

9:17 AM    
There are many different types of camera,

and even digital compacts come in several different varieties. As it happens, there are two that would suit you: “enthusiast compacts” and “travel zooms”. Unfortunately, you would like something that fits both categories, and as far as I know, there’s only one of those.
“Enthusiast compacts” are small cameras designed for people who normally use a DSLR with multiple lenses but want a second camera they can slip in a pocket when not carrying their main kit around. They have to deliver high image quality, and price isn’t that important. If you can afford a good DSLR with extra lenses, you can probably afford a compact camera that delivers similar results.
The Canon G1 helped kick-start this market, but the Sony RX100 has become many enthusiasts’ compact of choice. I’m not surprised to hear your YouTube photographer recommended it, and it has made several appearances in Ask Jack.
Although the latest £1,000 RX100 M5 may be out of your price range, there are four earlier versions, and you may be able to find one at an affordable price. For example, you can still get an original 2012 model for £335.70.
However, enthusiast compacts do not offer the optical zoom range you’re after. Typically they have 3x zoom lenses, and the M5 only covers 24mm to 70mm.