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.
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
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Best for Beginners
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ1000 II
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Best Nikon Choice
Nikon Coolpix P1000
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Best Canon Choice
Canon PowerShot SX70 HS
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Best for Video
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ2000 / FZ2500
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Best for Wildlife
Nikon Coolpix P950
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Best for Travel
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 III
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Budget pick
Panasonic Lumix FZ80 / FZ82
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Most Affordable Sony
Sony Cyber-shot DSC HX400V
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Best for Astro
Panasonic Lumix FZ300 / FZ330
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Best for Kids
Nikon Coolpix B500
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Luxury Pick
Leica V-Lux 5
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Best for Adventure
Canon PowerShot G3 X
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Great Value
Canon PowerShot SX540 HS
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Most Affordable
Canon PowerShot SX430
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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!
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 13.2 x 8.8 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 24 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 315 |
- Impressive 24 fps maximum continuous shooting speed
- Crisp image quality
- Unrivaled lens for a bridge camera
- Incredible 24-600 mm zoom range
- 4K video quality
- Expensive price tag
- Not an interchangeable lens camera
- No attached ND filter
- Slow autofocus in video mode
- Heavy for a compact camera
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.
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 13.2 x 8.8 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 12 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 49 |
- Excellent quality Leica lens
- 5-axis in-body image stabilization
- Great 4K video recording
- Good low-light performance
- 50 fps in continuos shooting mode
- Relatively short 400 mm max zoom
- Slow face- and eye-detection AF
- No simultaneous zoom and autofocus
- Cropped 4K videos
- Not weather sealed
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.
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 16 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 6.17 x 4.55 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 7 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 1 |
- Unbelievable 125x optical zoom
- In-camera image stabilization
- 1 cm minimum focusing distance
- High-resolution electronic viewfinder
- 4K video shooting
- Image quality drops off at longer focal lengths
- Frame rate buffer fills quickly
- No touchscreen
- No weather sealing
- Bulky and heavy body
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.
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 6.17 x 4.55 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 10 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 9 |
- Great price
- Superb image quality with classic Canon colors
- Optical image stabilization
- Lightweight and compact
- 4K video capabilities
- Slow maximum continuous shooting
- No touchscreen
- No hot shoe for attaching accessories
- No USB charging
- Cropped 4K video
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.
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 13.2 x 8.8 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 12 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 49 |
- Excellent quality Leica lens
- 5-axis image stabilization
- Solid build quality and large grip
- Good ergonomics
- Stunning 4K video
- Yellows occasionally look greenish
- Noisy JPEGs with high ISOs
- 1.4x crop factor with 4K video
- Not weather sealed
- No USB charging
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.
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 16 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 6.17 x 4.55 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 7 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 1 |
- Takes high-quality RAW images
- 5.5 stops of image stabilization
- 1 cm minimum focusing distance
- 83x digital zoom range
- 4K video capabilities
- Low-light performance isn't great
- Loses sharpness at longer focal lengths
- Slow buffer with continuous shooting
- No touchscreen
- Large camera body
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.
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 13.2 x 8.8 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 14 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 25 |
- Tremendous value
- Outstanding dynamic range
- In-body image stabilization
- Uncropped 4K video
- Headphone and microphone jacks
- Slow startup
- Autofocus occasionally hunts
- Outdated menu system
- No touchscreen
- No ND filter
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.
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 18 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 6.17 x 4.55 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 10 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 49 |
- Low price
- Built-in image stabilization
- Extensive 60x zoom range
- 1200 mm max focal length
- Easy touchscreen controls
- Sharp 4K video and photos
- Small sensor
- Noisy images at high ISOs
- No eye sensor on the improved EVF
- No articulating screen
- Weak battery life
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.
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 6.17 x 4.55 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 10 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 9 |
- Relatively low price tag
- High-quality JPEGs with vibrant colors
- Optical image stabilization
- Easy to use controls and interface
- Built-in WI-Fi
- No RAW shooting
- Poor low-light performance
- Low-resolution electronic viewfinder
- No touchscreen
- No 4K video
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.
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 12 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 6.17 x 4.55 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 12 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 1 |
- Relatively low price
- Stabilized lens
- Constant f/2.8 maximum aperture
- Beautiful bokeh effect
- 4K video recording
- Older camera
- Small sensor
- No RAW image processing
- No multi-function ring
- Large camera body
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.
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 16 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 6.17 x 4.55 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 7 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 1 |
- Terrific price
- 40x superzoom
- Optical image stabilization
- Advanced controls
- Easy photo sharing with Nikon SnapBridge app
- Average image quality
- Can't shoot RAW image files
- No electronic viewfinder
- No touchscreen
- No 4K video
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.
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 13.2 x 8.8 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 12 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 49 |
- Impressive image quality
- Good low-light performance
- High-quality Leica lens
- Great image stabilization
- Excellent 4K video quality
- Very expensive
- 400 mm maximum focal range
- Occasional purple fringing
- No USB type-C port
- No weather protection
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.
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 13.2 x 8.8 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 5.9 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 31 |
- Multiple customization options
- Built-in "intelligent" image stabilization
- Compact and lightweight design
- Durable, weather-sealed body
- Touchscreen LCD
- Older camera
- Not ideal for beginners
- Image quality falls off after ISO 3200
- No built-in electronic viewfinder
- No 4K video
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.
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 6.17 x 4.55 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 5.9 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 0 |
- Low price
- 50x optical zoom
- 100x Zoom Plus mode
- Multiple stabilization options
- Story Highlights feature
- Super portable size
- You can't shoot RAW files
- Slow autofocus
- Low-resolution screen
- No touchscreen
- No 4K video
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!
Camera Type | |
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 6.17 x 4.55 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 25 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 1 |
- Very affordable
- Easy to use and learn on
- 90x Zoom Plus mode
- 45x optical zoom
- Intelligent Stabilization modes
- Built-in Wi-Fi for image transferring
- Slow continuous shooting speeds
- Slow AF system
- An outdated interface
- No touch controls
- Only 720p HD video
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.
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!