Best Point and Shoot Camera Under 400 : Top 10 Picks

We have probably all heard of point and shoot camera before, and many of us even have owned it due to its compactness, especially if you are a vlogger; therefore, it is also known by the name of a compact camera.

But still, some people don’t have tried it yet because they are either unfamiliar with it or believe in this misconception that the point and shoot cameras are expensive. There is no reality at all in it, as you can get one even under $400. So to debunk this myth and help you find the best for you, we are presenting here the Top 10 Point and Shoot Camera under 400 in 2021 for you that will amaze you and left you thinking about how a camera could have a lot of features at such a low price!

So let’s discuss them all one by one without further pause!

Comparison Table of 10 Picked Cameras

1. Canon PowerShot ELPH 180 – Best Compact Camera under $200

The first camera on our list is Canon PowerShot ELPH 180. It is a straight and slim point and shoot camera that is budget-friendly too.

The main feature that should be present in a compact camera is its auto zoom type, and it has a good 8x optical zoom that is not the best but is a good choice for beginners. Moreover, this camera offers numerous options for shooting all kinds of subject matter because its focal length ranges from 24mm-224mm.

Canon ELPH 180 model is ideal for making noise-free videos. It is equipped with a DIGIC 4+ image processor, which is far better than the older version of DIGI 3. In addition, the signal processing of this camera is also improved, and this version of the processor works 1.3x faster than the old one.

It lacks a viewfinder but has a fixed LCD of 2.7,” and it is not a full HD camera but has a 720HD video feature. If we talk about the video quality of this model of Canon, it is supreme, captures videos with accurate and true colors, and shoots the objects at 25fps. But still, the image stabilization requires some improvements.

As far as the image quality is concerned, it has a very good image quality as this camera can captures pictures through its 20 MP 1/2.3-inch sensor. Interestingly this camera is very easy to operate, maintain and carry. No doubt, it lacks some features, but it is an ideal choice at such a low price, you’ll get a good image resolution, and other benefits as mentioned above in reasonable cheap pricing!

2. GoPro Hero 7 Black – Best Compact Camera for the Beginners

The next camera on our list of point and shoot cameras is the model of the World’s famous brand of vlogging cameras known as GoPro. GoPro Hero 7 Black is a cheap and good quality model of GoPro series 7. It is the most affordable of all the three models of the GoPro series, including White, Silver, and Black.

If you choose this camera, you’ll enjoy many fantastic features, including 4K video resolution. You’ll get a high-quality video resolution with smooth stabilization at just a low price; you can also capture super stabilized time-lapse videos. Talking about the quality of images, you can take high-quality pictures through a 12MP lens, and you’ll be amazed to know that you can take 15 photos in 1 second via Burst Mode.

This model of GoPro is waterproof so that nothing can stop you from shooting, not even the rain, and you can also shoot videos or click fantastic images underwater up to 33 feet or 10m. Still, you’ve to buy a separate casing as it does not come with the case.

Interestingly, you can also control your GoPro Hero 7 Balck through voice commands including ‘GoPro, start recording’ and ‘GoPro, take a photo.’ Moreover, you don’t need to worry about your camera’s battery life as it comes with a removable battery, and you can use the 2nd battery for continuous shooting.

You can also contact your fans through live streaming, but unfortunately, it is unavailable for 4K live streaming. It features a touchscreen of 2″, which made it easier to operate this camera. You can also make 8× slo-mo videos to provide unique content to your viewers. It is not a bad deal to get a good model of GoPro at this low price tag!

3. Sony Cyber-shot WX350 – Best Overall Point and Shoot Camera

Another best compact cheaper camera is Sony Cyber-shot WX350 by Sony, which has made this fantastic machine with superb features at low pricing. It comes with an 18.2MP Exmor CMOS sensor and a 20x optical zoom lens.

It is also powered by a BIONZ X processor to make this model of Sony faster than before. Moreover, it shows that it is equipped with many remarkable features, including 4K video shooting, 10fps continuous shooting, and Optical SteadyShot image stabilization. It also offers something to make panoramic shots via its handy Intelligent Sweep Panorama.

Sony Cyber-shot WX350 is a lightweight, stylish and compact camera. Almost all the cameras on our list have the best zooming power, but it has something special about zooming power as it possesses not only 20X optical zoom, but also 40X Clear Image digital zoom. Most of the available digital zooms utilize electronic cropping to make objects appear closer but capture unsharp images. But you don’t need to worry about the sharpness of the photos taken by Sony Cyber-shot WX350. The powerful processor’s Clear Image Zoom is ideal for capturing more realistic and high-quality images and doubles optical zoom for closer shots.

Additional features include face detection focusing, a 500mm good Tele lens, 164 g lightweight body, built-in wireless connectivity, and long battery life (470 shots). It contains a 3″ LCD screen but is not articulating and lacks a touch screen feature. Overall, it’s the best camera for beginners looking for the best point and shoot camera at reasonable pricing!

4. Nikon COOLPIX A900 – Best Travel Partner

If you are searching for a compact camera, then the Nikon COOLPIX A900is not far behind from any point and shoot camera and is a solid choice to take snapshots of your loved ones. If you purchase this camera, you’ll come across many innovative features.

Talking about the structure of Nikon COOLPIX A900, it is a blend of metal and plastic, so you don’t need to worry about the compactness of this model of Nikon. One amazing thing about it is its 20MP BSI CMOS image sensor, due to which you can capture high-quality images of accurate exposure and definition. In addition, you’ll be amazed to know that it has 35x optical zoom, which is ideal to bring the items closer to you without distorting the real value of the picture. You can also use it in light scenarios with or without utilizing the flash.

Interestingly, this is a 4K camera at such a low price. Doesn’t it sound amazing? So now you can enjoy shooting supreme 4k videos at 30fps and also 1080FHD at 60fps remarkable speed. And both of these modes are focused and sharp, but the autofocus is a little slow sometimes.

It is a 2 in one camera, being compact and having a flip screen. Due to the 3″ flip screen, you can easily see yourself on the screen while recording or taking selfies. But unfortunately, it doesn’t possess a touch screen.

One additional feature for the vloggers is wireless connectivity via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC. Unfortunately, you’ve to buy a separate standalone charger as it doesn’t provide it in packing. But, overall, it is a perfect camera to buy!

5. Sony DSCHX80/B – Best Budget-Friendly Point and Shoot Camera

The next camera on our list is the model of Sony cameras known as Sony DSCHX80/B. So, presenting you with another good quality camera that won’t break your bank. HX series give rise to this model, and you can say that it is like a big brother of HX50 and some other models.

One thing that makes it different from the other cameras on our list is the 18.2 Cyber short MP sensor. This sensor can record a 1080FHD video at 60fps speed. Not only this model of Sony, but almost all the models also carry this feature. But unfortunately, it lacks 4K video resolution.

A 3″ LCD screen is considered ideal, and you’ll surely fall in love with its flip-able LCD screen that can rotate at 180°. But the only shortcoming in the screen is that it does not come with a touch screen. But it’s not a big deal; you can neglect this deficiency for the low pricing.

Additionally, this camera features very good autofocus, full zooming, and remarkable video stabilization compared to the other cameras on our list and weighs only 1.06 lbs. If you look at the left side of the camera, there you’ll locate a button. On pressing, the built-in viewfinder pops out.

This camera provides a firm grip to its users. This adhesiveness is due to the rubber-like head that is present on the front side of the camera. One annoying thing about this camera is that the battery case and the tripod port are next to each other, and whenever you try to remove the battery, you have to remove the tripod first. But this camera is highly suggested to you because you can’t get such an incredible camera at a low price.

6. Nikon Coolpix A10 – Best Point and Shoot Camera under $100

Believe it or not, you can’t find the best point and shoot affordable camera under $100 from a highly reputable brand, but only the Nikon Coolpix A10.

It is the best choice for beginners because it is very easy to operate. To make it convenient to use, Nikon has inserted the smart button layout in its budget-friendly camera so that anyone can easily understand it better and can control it accordingly.

It offers to take 16.1 MP close-ups with the video recording in 720p HD video. The more interesting thing about it is that the Nikon has kept in mind the convenience of its users while making this model, as you’ll never be stuck waiting for a charge because it runs on AA batteries. It accepts different types of batteries, including lithium, alkaline, and Nikon rechargeable batteries.

It is equipped with a 2.7″ LCD screen, which is undoubtedly not a very high-quality screen, but it’s not a bad deal to get this screen at low prices. Unfortunately, its zooming power is only 5X, which is far less than the other cameras on our list; you’ll surely love the stabilization of recorded videos and still images of it. So at least, you are getting good quality content via Nikon Coolpix A10.

It is not a perfect camera in all aspects. Still, it is the best option for beginners at the initial stages of their vlogging career and need something that can offer more specs than their smartphones on a tight budget; this camera is purely made for them!

7. Canon PowerShot SX740 – Best Overall Point and Shoot Camera

If the previous model of Canon does not inspire you, then surely this model will fascinate you. Its high-quality images and videos are noticeable, and it is one of the best point and shoot budget-friendly cameras. Canon PowerShot SX740 is the 4th generation camera in the Powershot SX700 series that has the 4K video shooting capability.

Talking about the performance of this model of Canon, you’ll enjoy its 5X image stabilization and the retractable zoom lens having 40x optical zoom, which is crucial to capture distortion-free photos. Its more exposed and sharper color quality also make this camera worth buying.

The autofocus of this camera is very swift, and you can make fully focused videos while traveling. Other features include time-lapse video mode and the unique image mode called canon burst mode to capture ten continuous shots. As we discussed earlier, it can shoot 4k videos, but it can also shoot videos in 1080FHD. You can also record video at 1080p via auto mode.

This model of Canon comes with a popup flash to assist you in taking pictures in dark scenarios and offers wireless connectivity through Wi-Fi and NFC.

Canon PowerShot SX740 has many other aesthetic features as its metal body is based on the smart HCI design. It also offers the full grip to its users as its buttons are present on the top. You’ll be astonished to know that Canon is offering you the flip-able 3″ LCD screen that can be titled at 180° in a low price tag so that nothing can stop you from starting your career as a vlogger!

8. Sony a5100 – Best Mirrorless Camera in Low Budget

Again the next camera on the list of best point and shoot cameras is the model of the Sony brand. Sony a5100 is one one the best quality models of Sony, and you can get this mirrorless camera at a very low price with loads of features. It possesses the capabilities that are identical to DSLRs, but it is far compact and small in size compared to them so that you can carry them easily anywhere as it only weighs 0.62 lbs.

Sony a5100 has a small size of 1.42 x 4.33 x 2.48 inches. It opens up a new way for photographers to change the lenses in a range of 16-50mm. It not only shares features with DSLRs but also with its big brother a6000. Like other cameras on our list, it also has a remarkable 3″ touchscreen LCD that is flippable and can rotate at 180° so that you can shoot videos from different angles.

Additional features include, 24.3MP APS-C CMOS sensor having on-chip phase detection that covers 92% of the frame, a Bionz X processor, Sony’s latest image processor, and a XAVC S codec that is essential for providing 24p and 1080/60p movies with a 50Mbps bit rate.

This camera has something special for you to create vibration-free content. It has an Anti-Motion Blur Mode that automatically rectifies the movement of subjects to provide sharp and clear imagery in low-light situations. It also offers wireless connectivity in the form of Wi-Fi and NFC so that you can easily upload your content on social media without any boundaries. This camera is ideal for vloggers, YouTube’s and Instagramers!

9. Panasonic Lumix ZS70k – Best Compact Camera with Viewfinder

Panasonic Lumix ZS70k is a tough competitor of Canon PowerShot SX740. If you find that the Canon PowerShot SX740 doesn’t suit your requirements, you should try this model of Panasonic.

Important Note*

This camera is also known as Panasonic TZ90, so don’t get confused.

It is a pocket-sized camera that weighs only 0.71 lbs, and in such a small camera, you’ll get a variety of features at a very low price of under $400. If we look at the picture quality, the colors are accurate and natural. But unfortunately, sometimes, the captured picture in auto mode has less saturation and appears to be green. But don’t worry?; this issue is manageable as you can adjust the settings and modes to get accurate color grading and outcomes.

This amazingly designed model of a reputable brand, i.e., Panasonic, has 4K mode both in images and videos, so that you may enjoy high resolution created content. Many vloggers find this best as the best point and shoot camera for making their vlogs perfectly. You can easily locate the 4K button on the right-hand side of the LCD screen, which can switch the resolution between 4K and 1080FHD.

Some additional features include the electronic viewfinder, 1000+ mAh battery to provide you with extended hours of shootings, touch screen LCD that is easy to operate, Panoramic mode, LEICA retractable lens, 3″ flip-up 180 degrees LCD, 30X optical zoom, 20 MP sensor with a 5 Axis Hybrid Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) and wireless connectivity. Amazing! 

You’ll get all these features in a single camera that is cheap too, so what you’re waiting for!

10. Canon PowerShot SX530 HS – Best Compact Camera Having Massive Zoom

Canon PowerShot SX530 HS is among the best point and shoot cameras that you can get at an affordable price. Just like the other cameras of Canon, this camera also has many unique features, that’s why included in our list of best cameras.

Canon PowerShot SX530 HS has a 16 MP High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor that offers good resolution along with 1080 HD video. One feature that makes it stand above the crowd is its massive 50X optical zoom in a lightweight, small body.

It has a Canon HS SYSTEM due to the 16 Megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4+ Image Processor. With built-in Wi-Fi technology, NFC, and Connect app2, you can also use the Canon Camera to transfer videos and photos between compatible devices.

This camera automatically adapts and ensures sharp, detailed photos and videos even if you’re shooting at full zoom or handheld in low light. Moreover, you’ll also enjoy its Creative Shot mode, which helps create images with artistic flair. It evaluates the individual subject, scene, and exposure to apply any filter out of 46 available filters options. Filter choices are grouped into Monochrome, Retro, Special, and Natural classifications for simple and easy access, or you may choose Auto to utilize the full range of available effects.

The Canon PowerShot SX530 HS has an intelligent optical Image Stabilizer, due to which you can shoot shaking-free content. Interestingly, it can automatically ensure and adapt detailed, sharp videos and photos. So if you are recording videos handheld in low light and full zoom, you do not need to worry about the quality of your videos. Life is too short, so don’t miss a chance to capture every moment of your life through Canon PowerShot SX530 HS!

Point and Shoot Camera Under $400- Complete Buying Guide

If you are confused about how to choose the best point and shoot camera for you under 400 in 2021 you, then you should consider these things:

Zoom Type

The foremost thing that you should look for in a point and shoot camera is the zoom type you need. These cameras come with three options of zoom type, including:

1. Digital Zoom
2. Optical Zome
3. Both digital and optical zoom

Most people prefer optical zoom over digital zoom because it is ideal for capturing shaking-free images.

Wireless Connectivity

If you are a vlogger or moto vlogger, you will surely require built-in Wi-Fi or NFC connectivity on the cameras. Luckily modern point and shoot cameras have wireless connectivity to share your content through social media sites.

LCD Screen

LCD Screens are another feature that you should look for in a camera. The exemplary LCD screen has a length of 3″ and helps out to preview your shots. Choose high-quality LCDs so that you may enjoy better color and battery visibility in brighter light.

Megapixels (MP)

A common MP misconception is that the higher megapixel numbers provide better image quality, so choosing a camera with high MPs is the right option. No doubt, high MP cameras are better than the low ones, but if you want to shoot in low light, then you’ll require a camera of high MPs but overall moderate MPs are more than enough if you’re going to record content in daylight, the choice is only yours!

Battery

Some point and shoot cameras feature AA batteries, and some possess rechargeable batteries of lithium. The latter is ideal for use for extended durations. But, of course, you may choose according to your demand!

Face Detection

Another important feature that should be present in your selected camera is face detection. As cameras have to focus on all the scenery, you should choose a point-and-shoot camera that can target the face after supreme detection. Another face detection feature is the Smile Recognition feature, which gives extra ease of using your camera.

Memory Card

Most of the compact cameras come with storage capacities of 32 GB. In addition, most of such cameras are compatible with SDHC (Secure Digital High Capacity) or SD (Secure Digital) formats cards for faster write/read speeds. However, if you find this storage insufficient for you, you may also choose a camera offering external storage.

Camera Mode

Fortunately, most of the point and shoot cameras feature numerous shooting modes. These automatic camera modes assist photographers by recognizing a scene and saving time by automatically changing the settings. Therefore, you should also prefer such cameras!

Bottom Line

Point and shoot cameras are the best options for you as these are highly compact cameras, and anyone can operate them easily. So we suggest you stop pondering over it and you may try any of the cameras mentioned above, as all these are worth buying. So get an affordable compact camera for you today!