15 Best Bridge Cameras in 2024 (for Beginners, Kids and Pros!)

Perhaps you are interested in purchasing a new bridge camera but unsure which one will work best for you?

After extensive research, I compiled this comprehensive list of the 15 best bridge cameras for beginners.

Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV

This beauty of a bridge camera is in a league of its own with industry-leading autofocus, premium Zeiss lens and 4k video!

See Full Specs >

With considerable variances in price and performance, finding the perfect fit can undoubtedly be a challenge. But there’s something here for everyone, with choices from all the top camera brands and across every price range!

What is the Best Bridge Camera to Buy in 2023?

Below are the 15 best bridge cameras for beginners, professionals, and everyone in-between!

Our Top Choice

Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV

Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV

• Impressive 24 fps burst
• Crisp image quality
• 24-600mm zoom
• Impressive 4k quality video

Best for Beginners

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ1000 II

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ1000 II

• Quality Leica lens
• Super 50 fps burst
• 4K video
• Nice fast autofocus

Best Nikon Choice

Nikon Coolpix P1000

Nikon Coolpix P1000

• 125x optical zoom
• High-res viewfinder
• 4K video
• Wi-Fi and Bluetooth function

Best Canon Choice

Canon PowerShot SX70 HS

Canon PowerShot SX70 HS

• Great price
• Nice image stabilization
• Lightweight
• Fast autofocus

Best for Video

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ2000 / FZ2500

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ2000 / FZ2500

• Quality RA
• Good ergonomics
• Solid build quality
• Smooth bokeh effect

Best for Wildlife

Nikon Coolpix P950

Nikon Coolpix P950

• 83x digital zoom
• Quality RAW images
• 1cm minimum focusing distance
• Good image stabilization

Best for Travel

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III

• Tremendous value
• Reliable image stabilization
• Nice 4K video
• High-def slow motion

Budget pick

Panasonic Lumix FZ80 / FZ82

Panasonic Lumix FZ80 / FZ82

• Excellent Price
• 60x zoom range
• Built-in stabilization

Most Affordable Sony

Sony Cyber-shot DSC HX400V

Sony Cyber-shot DSC HX400V

• Good Price
• High-quality JPEGs
• Built-in WI-Fi

Best for Astro

Panasonic Lumix FZ300 / FZ330

Panasonic Lumix FZ300 / FZ330

• Relatively low price
• Stabilized lens
• Beautiful bokeh effect

Best for Kids

Nikon Coolpix B500

Nikon Coolpix B500

• 40x superzoom
• Advanced controls
• Terrific price
• Various scene modes to choose from

Luxury Pick

Leica V-Lux 5

Leica V-Lux 5

• Quality Leica lens
• Image stabilization
• Great in Low Light
• Articulating touchscreen

Best for Adventure

Canon PowerShot G3 X

Canon PowerShot G3 X

• Touchscreen LCD
• Durable, weather-sealed body
• Lightweight

Great Value

Canon PowerShot SX540 HS

Canon PowerShot SX540 HS

• Low price
• 100x Zoom Plus mode
• Super portable size

Most Affordable

Canon PowerShot SX430

Canon PowerShot SX430

• Easy to use
• 90x Zoom Plus mode
• Built-in Wi-Fi
• Optical Image Stabilisation

15 Best Bridge Cameras in 2023 (in Detail!)

Let’s dive into the list and take a closer look at the key features of each camera—where they excel, where they need to be improved, and who will benefit most from shooting with them!

1. Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV

Camera Type	Camera Type Bridge
Megapixels	Megapixels 20 MP
Sensor Format	Sensor Format 1"
Sensor Size	Sensor Size 13.2 x 8.8 mm
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 24 fps
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 315

See All Specs

The Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV is the newest Sony bridge camera (replacing the Sony Cyber-shot RX10 III). It is in a league of its own for overall performance. The large 20.4MP (megapixel), one-inch sensor, Bionz X image processor, and premium Zeiss lens deliver stunningly sharp images and movies.

Furthermore, it boasts Sony’s industry-leading autofocus technology. The hybrid autofocus (AF) system uses 315 phase-detection points, covers 65% of the sensor, and has face-detection and eye-detection modes.

If all that wasn’t enough, it works wonderfully as a video camera and captures uncropped 4K video at up to 30fps. There is no other bridge camera that can match the overall performance of this powerful Sony camera.

2. Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ1000 II

Camera Type	Camera Type Bridge
Megapixels	Megapixels 20 MP
Sensor Format	Sensor Format 1"
Sensor Size	Sensor Size 13.2 x 8.8 mm
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 12 fps
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 49

See All Specs

The popular Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 II came out in 2019 as the successor to the Panasonic Lumix FZ1000. It borrows all the best features of the original model while adding a handful of upgrades that significantly improve performance.

The first thing that stands out is the powerful 20MP, one-inch sensor. The larger sensor produces high-quality photos and videos, even when shooting in low light.

Speaking of video, it records movies in both 4K and 1080p Full HD. My biggest knock against the FZ1000 II is that the 400mm maximum focal length lags slightly behind competitors like the Sony RX10 IV. However, it’s only about half the price on the bright side.

3. Nikon Coolpix P1000

Camera Type	Camera Type Bridge
Megapixels	Megapixels 16 MP
Sensor Format	Sensor Format 1/2.3”
Sensor Size	Sensor Size 6.17 x 4.55 mm
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 7 fps
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 1

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If you want a superzoom camera with ultimate reach, the Nikon Coolpix P1000 has no rivals. The telephoto lens produces an equivalent focal length of 24-3000mm, equating to an out-of-this-world 125x optical zoom. With that range, it has no problem shooting both dramatic landscapes and far-off subjects, like animals.

The only thing holding it back from being the best bridge camera on the planet is its smaller 16MP, 1/2.3″ sensor. The image quality is fantastic when shooting well-lit scenes. But it drops off somewhat in low-light situations. Plus, images have more noise at longer focal lengths and can be blurry if you are not using a tripod.

You can see a detailed comparison of the Nikon Coolpix P1000 vs RX10 IV specs here.

4. Canon PowerShot SX70 HS

Camera Type	Camera Type Bridge
Megapixels	Megapixels 20 MP
Sensor Format	Sensor Format 1/2.3”
Sensor Size	Sensor Size 6.17 x 4.55 mm
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 10 fps
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 9

See All Specs

The Canon PowerShot SX70 HS houses a 20MP, 1/2.3-inch sensor and a speedy DIGIC 8 image processor. The pairing works together effortlessly to deliver high-quality photos with good edge-to-edge sharpness. Moreover, both stills and videos have bright and bold colors thanks to Canon’s industry-leading color algorithms.

Looking at video features, it can record footage in 4K Ultra HD at 30fps. However, it’s better suited for 1080p Full HD due to the heavy crop factor applied during 4K video shooting. Additionally, in 1080p, you can capture slow-motion footage by switching the speed to 120fps.

Two other things to note about this camera are its excellent ergonomics and the 65x optical zoom.

5. Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ2000

Camera Type	Camera Type Bridge
Megapixels	Megapixels 20 MP
Sensor Format	Sensor Format 1"
Sensor Size	Sensor Size 13.2 x 8.8 mm
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 12 fps
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 49

See All Specs

While the Lumix FZ2500 (FZ2000 in Europe) is a capable bridge camera for hybrid shooters, Panasonic designed it with videographers in mind. It shoots Cinematic 4K footage at 24fps, Ultra HD, 4K video at 30fps, and 1080p Full HD at 60fps.

On top of that, it can output 4:2:2, 10-bit video. Plus, it has a V-log function for footage. You can get a wide dynamic range (12 stops) by utilizing a LUT (Look Up Table) in editing.

Vloggers and YouTubers will love the new addition of a fully articulating three-inch touchscreen rear LCD. It makes framing and filming yourself a breeze.

Also, the five-axis built-in image stabilization helps reduce camera shake when shooting handheld videos. And finally, it holds up well even when working with poorly lit scenes, thanks to a large 20MP, one-inch sensor.

6. Nikon Coolpix P950

Camera Type	Camera Type Bridge
Megapixels	Megapixels 16 MP
Sensor Format	Sensor Format 1/2.3”
Sensor Size	Sensor Size 6.17 x 4.55 mm
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 7 fps
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 1

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The Nikon Coolpix P950 has a 16MP, 1/2.3-inch sensor and an enormous focal length range of 24-2000mm. The 83x optical zoom allows you to get up close and personal even with far-off subjects, making it an excellent option for wildlife and bird photography.

Optical image stabilization helps significantly reduce camera shake at longer focal lengths. But mounting the camera on a tripod is still recommended.

Furthermore, the Nikon Coolpix P950 has a minimum focusing distance of only one centimeter when shooting at wider angles like 24mm. This feature makes it one of the best bridge cameras for macro photographers who like to shoot flower and insect photography.

Compare the Nikon Coolpix P950 vs P1000 specs here.

7. Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III

Camera Type	Camera Type Bridge
Megapixels	Megapixels 20 MP
Sensor Format	Sensor Format 1"
Sensor Size	Sensor Size 13.2 x 8.8 mm
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 14 fps
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 25

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The Sony Cyber-shot RX10 III is the predecessor of the number one camera on this list, the RX10 IV. While it’s slightly older than its successor, it’s still a capable camera and one of the most sought-after bridge cameras on the market.

Two big reasons? Its significantly reduced price (nearly slashed in half) since the release of the newer model. And its lighter, more compact body.

At the camera’s core is the same 20MP, one-inch CMOS sensor. In addition, it features the same premium 24-600mm Sony Zeiss lens and the same 4K video shooting modes.

Lastly, it uses a 25-point, contrast-detection autofocus system that is solid. But can’t compare to the hybrid phase-detection AF system of the RX10 IV.

8. Panasonic Lumix FZ80 (FZ82)

Camera Type	Camera Type Bridge
Megapixels	Megapixels 18 MP
Sensor Format	Sensor Format 1/2.3”
Sensor Size	Sensor Size 6.17 x 4.55 mm
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 10 fps
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 49

See All Specs

The Panasonic Lumix FZ80 (FZ82 in Europe) is an enthusiast-level bridge camera packed with advanced features. First off, it has an 18.1MP, 1/2.3-inch sensor, and a 20-1200 mm zoom range.

Unfortunately, the max ISO is only 3200, severely limiting its shooting ability in dim light. But image quality remains sharp throughout the entire ISO range.

Furthermore, it has 4K video capabilities and a 4K photo mode. At its price point, the addition of 4K video recording is almost unheard of.

As for the 4K photo mode, it’s a super cool feature usually only found in high-end Panasonic cameras. It takes a photo burst of 30fps and then allows you to scroll through and save 8MP JPEG images.

9. Sony Cyber-Shot DSC HX400V

Camera Type	Camera Type Bridge
Megapixels	Megapixels 20 MP
Sensor Format	Sensor Format 1/2.3”
Sensor Size	Sensor Size 6.17 x 4.55 mm
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 10 fps
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 9

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Originally known as the Sony Cyber-shot HX400V, it is an oldie but a goodie. It was released way back in 2014. But it remains a terrific budget option to this day.

It’s an entry-level camera featuring a 20.4MP, 1/2.3-inch sensor and a versatile 24-1200mm optical zoom lens. The Sony Zeiss lens is constructed from premium glass and helps deliver sharp photos and videos.

One important thing to note is that it can’t process RAW images. If you like to edit your photos in post-production using programs like Adobe Lightroom, this is not the camera for you.

However, the out-of-the-box JPEG image quality is outstanding on the plus side. Moreover, the colors are bold and vibrant, which is not the norm for Sony cameras.

10. Panasonic Lumix FZ300 (FZ330)

Camera Type	Camera Type Bridge
Megapixels	Megapixels 12 MP
Sensor Format	Sensor Format 1/2.3”
Sensor Size	Sensor Size 6.17 x 4.55 mm
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 12 fps
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 1

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The Panasonic Lumix FZ300 (FZ330 in Europe) is a budget-friendly camera with a 12.1MP, 1/2.3-inch sensor, and a premium Leica lens. It has many great attributes. But it is one of the best bridge cameras available today because of its high-quality lens featuring a constant maximum aperture of f/2.8.

No other bridge camera currently has a constant maximum aperture that low, giving it stellar low-light performance. With this camera, you can zoom in on stars and the moon, keep the ISO low, and capture excellent high-quality images with minimal noise. It’s a great beginner camera for aspiring astrophotographers.

In addition, it works well for portrait photography thanks to the buttery bokeh created from the high aperture.

11. Nikon Coolpix B500

Camera Type	Camera Type Bridge
Megapixels	Megapixels 16 MP
Sensor Format	Sensor Format 1/2.3”
Sensor Size	Sensor Size 6.17 x 4.55 mm
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 7 fps
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 1

See All Specs

The Nikon Coolpix B500 is an easy-to-use camera perfect for beginners and children. It comes at a low price, has a 40x optical superzoom, and has a 16MP, 1/2.3-inch sensor.

While it is missing premium features like shooting RAW files and 4K video, I think that’s a plus for learners. They can spend more time learning about composition and how to use the camera properly and less time worrying about the tech.

In addition, another fun feature is that the Nikon Coolpix B500 comes in three different colors—black, red, and purple. Kids especially will love having a bright and colorful camera to show off to their friends. One thing to note is that there is no electronic viewfinder (EVF), only an LCD screen.

12. Leica V-Lux 5

Camera Type	Camera Type Bridge
Megapixels	Megapixels 20 MP
Sensor Format	Sensor Format 1"
Sensor Size	Sensor Size 13.2 x 8.8 mm
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 12 fps
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 49

See All Specs

The Leica V-Lux 5 is a superzoom bridge camera closely resembling the Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 II. It is built around a 20.1MP, 1-inch sensor and includes a premium Leica 25-400 mm optical zoom lens. The lens has a maximum aperture of f/2.8-4 and features multiple aspherical lens elements that reduce distortions and chromatic aberrations.

Autofocus (AF) is one of the camera’s strong points. It does a phenomenal job of tracking and locking onto subjects while in continuous AF. It comes in particularly handy when shooting portraits and street photography.

A few more features worth highlighting are its 12fps maximum continuous shooting rate, 4K photo mode, and focus stacking to improve depth of field.

13. Canon PowerShot G3 X

Camera Type	Camera Type Bridge
Megapixels	Megapixels 20 MP
Sensor Format	Sensor Format 1"
Sensor Size	Sensor Size 13.2 x 8.8 mm
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 5.9 fps
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 31

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The Canon PowerShot G3 X is the rare bridge camera that resembles mirrorless cameras more closely than a DSLR. Measuring 123x77x105mm and weighing only 733g, it is one of the lightest and most compact cameras on this list. That makes it an excellent choice for hiking, travel, and adventure photography.

It has a large 20.2MP, one-inch sensor and a 24-600 mm equivalent focal range that delivers crisp and vibrant images. While it can’t shoot 4K video, the 1080p Full HD quality is good.

Additionally, it has microphone and headphone ports for more precise audio control. The one big head-scratcher is the exclusion of a viewfinder. However, you can purchase an electronic viewfinder separately.

14. Canon PowerShot SX540 HS

Camera Type	Camera Type Bridge
Megapixels	Megapixels 20 MP
Sensor Format	Sensor Format 1/2.3”
Sensor Size	Sensor Size 6.17 x 4.55 mm
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 5.9 fps
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 0

See All Specs

The Canon PowerShot SX540 is an entry-level bridge camera with a 20.3MP, 1/2.3-inch sensor. It is not a professional camera. But for beginners and occasional shooters, it’s a terrific first camera. Moreover, it can capture distant subjects with a 24-1200mm zoom range and a Zoom Plus mode that expands to 2400mm.

Another cool feature is the Highlights mode. It allows you to capture short video clips and then compile them together to make a short movie you can share with your family and friends.

Because the camera is 100% plastic, it is incredibly lightweight and portable. However, this also means it’s less durable. So make sure to take good care of it!

15. Canon PowerShot SX430 IS

Camera Type	Camera Type Bridge
Megapixels	Megapixels 20 MP
Sensor Format	Sensor Format 1/2.3”
Sensor Size	Sensor Size 6.17 x 4.55 mm
Frame Rate	Frame Rate 25 fps
Autofocus Points	Autofocus Points 1

See All Specs

Lastly, I’ve included the Canon PowerShot SX430 IS for those who want the ultimate low-budget camera. It features a 20.5MP, 1/2.3-inch sensor and a 24-1080 mm optical zoom range. On top of that, it has a Zoom Plus mode that doubles the maximum focal length.

Another helpful feature is Wi-Fi, allowing you to quickly transfer photos and videos to your mobile device. Many smartphones today have more advanced cameras. But if you want to get your hands on a cheap “real camera,” this is a good option.

Our Verdict

While every bridge camera on this list is an excellent option, some stand out from the pack in one way or another. Let’s do a quick recap of the different cameras we covered.

• The Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV is the undeniable king of the market. While it comes at a steep price, it’s the all-around best bridge camera if you have the money to spend.
• Videographers, filmmakers, YouTubers, and vloggers will want to go with the Panasonic Lumix FZ2500.
• Photographers who desire the most robust zoom range should choose the Nikon Coolpix P1000.
• And people who want the best combination of price and performance will love the Panasonic Lumix FZ80.

Bridge cameras are unique superzoom cameras designed for people who don’t want the hassle of dealing with an interchangeable lens camera. The best bridge camera can capture a wide range of focal lengths. They certainly aren’t for everyone. But they are great options for some, including beginners and travelers.

Sony Cyber-shot RX10 IV

This beauty of a bridge camera is in a league of its own with industry-leading autofocus, premium Zeiss lens and 4k video!

See Full Specs >

Common Questions About Bridge Cameras

Finally, let’s answer some more of people’s frequently asked questions about bridge cameras.

What is a Bridge Camera?

Bridge cameras are specialty cameras meant to fill the void between point-and-shoot cameras and DSLR or mirrorless cameras. They combine the signature features of compact and interchangeable lens cameras to form unique and robust systems. The name was derived from the fact that they “bridge the gap” between the two different camera systems.

Bridge cameras feature fixed superzoom lenses with huge focal length versatility and zooms of up to 100x. Plus, they have advanced controls for making pinpoint adjustments. While they are technically considered premium compact cameras, they generally more closely resemble the look and feel of DSLRs.

What is the Difference Between a Bridge Camera and a DSLR?

While they often look identical at first glance, many people mistakenly call bridge cameras DSLRs. But they are not the same. The key difference is that DSLR cameras are interchangeable lens systems, whereas bridge cameras are not.

Bridge cameras feature fixed lenses that can never be removed or switched. The optical zoom lenses of bridge cameras have fantastic optical zoom ranges. But they cannot match the quality of the best DSLR interchangeable lenses.

On the other hand, the primary advantage of bridge cameras is that they save space since you don’t have to carry extra lenses.

Who is a Bridge Camera Good For?

Bridge cameras are suitable for people who want one camera kit and don’t want to worry about buying additional lenses. While the best bridge cameras have hefty price tags, they are great bargains when you consider you don’t need to invest in expensive lenses.

On top of that, they are also excellent choices for travel photography. Size and weight are critical when you travel, and having both your camera and lens in one unit is super handy.

Are Bridge Cameras Good for Wildlife Photography?

Absolutely! With their impressive zoom lenses, bridge cameras are the favorites of many wildlife photographers. Most bridge cameras have max equivalent focal lengths of at least 600mm. Some extend to a mind-boggling 3000mm!

You can capture even the most minute details of far-off animals and birds with that type of reach. Additionally, they can shoot stunning macro shots of flowers and insects by taking advantage of the massive zoom range.

Are Bridge Cameras Good for Beginner Photography?

Ding ding ding, that’s another resounding yes! Because of their versatility and advanced controls, bridge cameras are wonderful options for beginners looking for a good first camera or who want to upgrade their current point-and-shoot camera.

Unlike point-and-shoots, most bridge cameras have a full lineup of manual controls. That makes them great for beginners who want to dive deeper into the art and science of photography and learn about things like the exposure triangle (aperture, shutter speed and ISO!).

Are Bridge Cameras Good for Video?

There is a pattern here. Once again, the answer is yes! Most bridge cameras lagged behind DSLRs in terms of video capabilities in the past. But they have seen significant improvements in recent years.

The majority of newer bridge cameras now feature 4K video shooting. Add in the fact that every camera on this list also has built-in image stabilization. The result is some seriously capable video cameras. It’s no surprise that many filmmakers, YouTubers, videographers, and vloggers choose bridge cameras as their primary everyday cameras.

Still looking for the best bridge camera options? You can filter our full camera database for bridge cameras or compare bridge camera specs in our comparison tool next!