Best compact digital cameras under $400

As a photography enthusiast on a budget, finding the perfect compact digital camera that offers both quality and affordability can be a challenging task. With so many options available in the market, it’s important to narrow down your choices to the best contenders that won’t break the bank.

In this article, I will guide you through a selection of compact digital cameras priced under $400 that deliver exceptional performance, features, and value for money. Whether you’re a beginner looking to upgrade from your smartphone or a seasoned photographer seeking a compact travel companion, there’s a camera on this list that will meet your needs and exceed your expectations.

My Experience with the Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II

When I was searching for a compact digital camera under $400, I came across the Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II. I was immediately impressed by its sleek design and compact size, making it perfect for on-the-go photography.

Top Rated

Canon PowerShot G9 X Compact Camera

Outstanding low-light performance and portability

This pocket-sized camera offers a 20.2MP sensor and DIGIC 6 Processor for impeccable image quality, even in low light. Capture stunning 1080p videos and share easily using built-in Wi-Fi.

$655.00 at Amazon.com

Amazon price updated: June 5, 2025 6:59 am

One of the standout features of the Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II is its 20.1-megapixel 1.0-inch CMOS sensor, which delivers stunning image quality with great detail and clarity. The camera also boasts a fast f/2.0-4.9 lens, allowing for excellent low-light performance and beautiful background blur.

• The camera’s 3.0-inch touchscreen LCD makes it easy to compose and review shots, while the built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity allow for quick and easy sharing of images. Additionally, the Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II offers Full HD 1080p video recording with smooth and steady footage.
• Overall, I have been extremely pleased with the Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of image quality, performance, and portability, making it an excellent choice for anyone in search of a high-quality compact digital camera under $400.

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100: A Compact Powerhouse

When it comes to compact digital cameras under $400, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 stands out as a top contender. I recently got my hands on this impressive camera, and I have been blown away by its performance and features.

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 packs a powerful 20.2-megapixel Exmor CMOS sensor, delivering stunning image quality even in low light conditions. The camera’s Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T lens ensures sharp and clear photos, while the fast autofocus system captures every moment with precision.

• The camera’s compact size makes it perfect for travel and everyday use.
• With Full HD video recording capabilities, you can capture high-quality videos as well.
• The tiltable LCD screen allows for easy framing of shots from various angles.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX10 Review

After extensive research, I settled on the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX10 as my compact digital camera of choice. This camera offers impressive features and performance at an affordable price point.

One standout feature of the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX10 is its large 1-inch sensor, which allows for stunning image quality and excellent low-light performance. The camera’s fast f/1.4-2.8 lens also contributes to its impressive image quality, producing sharp and detailed photos even in challenging lighting conditions.

• The camera’s 4K video recording capabilities are another major selling point, allowing me to capture high-quality videos with ease.
• I also appreciate the camera’s compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around for everyday use.
• The touchscreen LCD display is responsive and user-friendly, making it simple to navigate the camera’s settings and menus.

Nikon Coolpix A1000

When it comes to compact digital cameras under $400, the Nikon Coolpix A1000 stands out for its impressive features and performance. As a photography enthusiast, I appreciate the compact and lightweight design of this camera, making it easy to carry around for capturing beautiful moments on the go.

One of the standout features of the Nikon Coolpix A1000 is its powerful 35x optical zoom lens, which allows me to get close-up shots of distant subjects with clarity and detail. The camera also boasts a high-resolution electronic viewfinder and a tilting touchscreen display, making it convenient to compose and review shots in various shooting conditions.

• The camera’s 4K video recording capability
• The built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for easy sharing and remote control
• The range of creative shooting modes and effects

Fujifilm X100V

The Fujifilm X100V is a compact digital camera that offers exceptional image quality and performance in a portable package. With its advanced sensor and processor, the X100V delivers stunning images with sharp detail and vibrant colours.

One of the standout features of the Fujifilm X100V is its fixed 23mm f/2 lens, which provides a versatile focal length for capturing a wide range of subjects. The lens is sharp and fast, making it ideal for street photography, portraits, and landscapes.

• The X100V features a hybrid viewfinder that combines the benefits of an optical viewfinder with the convenience of an electronic viewfinder, giving you the best of both worlds.
• With its compact size and retro design, the X100V is a stylish camera that is perfect for photographers who want to travel light without compromising on image quality.
• The X100V is a great option for photographers looking for a high-quality compact camera under $400 that delivers exceptional performance and versatility.

Olympus Tough TG-6

The Olympus Tough TG-6 is a rugged and durable compact digital camera that is perfect for outdoor adventures. It is waterproof, shockproof, crushproof, freezeproof, and dustproof, making it ideal for any environment.

One of the key features of the Olympus Tough TG-6 is its high-quality lens that provides sharp and clear images. The camera also has advanced shooting modes, including underwater HDR, underwater microscope, and focus stacking, allowing you to capture stunning photos in various conditions.

• The TG-6 has a built-in GPS, compass, and thermometer, which is perfect for tracking your adventures and adding location data to your photos.
• It has a 4x optical zoom lens and can shoot 4K video, making it versatile for both photos and videos.
• The camera also has a macro mode that allows you to capture detailed close-up shots of small subjects.

Ricoh GR III

Ricoh GR III is a highly compact digital camera that offers exceptional image quality and performance in a small package. It features a 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor, a fast 28mm f/2.8 lens, and a high-resolution 3-inch touchscreen LCD. The camera also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for easy sharing of photos and remote control.

Must-Have

RICOH GR III Premium Digital Camera

Sharp images with highlight diffusion filter

The RICOH GR III features a 24MP APS-C sensor and unique highlight diffusion filter for expressive photography. Its portable design makes it perfect for street and everyday photography.

$1,364.95 at Amazon.com

Amazon price updated: June 5, 2025 6:59 am

The Ricoh GR III is perfect for street photography, travel, and everyday use. It excels in capturing sharp, detailed images with vibrant colors and excellent low-light performance. Its compact size makes it easy to carry around and discreetly capture candid moments.

Conclusion:

• The Ricoh GR III is a top choice for photographers looking for a high-quality compact camera under $400.
• Its combination of image quality, performance, and portability make it a versatile tool for capturing stunning photos on the go.
• If you value image quality and portability, the Ricoh GR III is definitely worth considering for your next camera purchase.