For another set of affordable options, take a look at our list of the best digital cameras for under $200. They don’t have all the same features as the cameras on this list, but there are plenty of high-quality options there as well. For all others, read on to see the best cameras under $250. The Canon PowerShot SX620 HS has an impressive 25x optical zoom with intelligent image stabilization and can handle low-light photos with its 20.2-megapixel CMOS sensor. It measures 2.3 x 5.7 x 6.3 inches and weighs just .38 pounds, so it’s easy to carry around no matter if you’re on your way to work or the beach. For video, it captures 1080p HD footage at 30 frames per second and both video and photos can be viewed instantly on the device’s three-inch LCD screen. This camera can even send photos directly to your smartphone via Wi-Fi or NFC. For powerful zoom on a budget, the Canon PowerShot SX420 IS is the camera for you. It has 42x optical zoom (24-1008mm) with a 24mm wide-angle lens, enabling great landscapes, portraits or anything else. The camera’s 20-megapixel CCD sensor enables you to get plenty of detail and color, and it all can be viewed on the fly via the camera’s three-inch LCD screen. Oh, and you can send photos straight to your smartphone or tablet via Wi-Fi and NFC, so you can post your new family photo immediately on Facebook and Instagram. Reviewers of the device have given the camera high marks for its excellent zoom and ease of use. They suggest avoiding digital zoom and sticking to optical zoom for the best shots. The key to operating the camera is the four-way navigation pad which assists with selecting the proper shooting mode as well as controlling the 3x optical and 6x digital zoom. The 2.7-inch 230K-dot resolution display fits nicely on the 4.4 x 2.7 x 1.5-inch frame of the W100 which is a pocket-friendly size for on-the-go use. Transferring photos off of the W100 is also easy thanks to Nikon’s Snapbridge technology which connects via Wi-Fi, NFC or Bluetooth to Nikon’s smartphone app. Two of the compact camera’s particularly impressive features are 10 frames per second shooting (which makes capturing fast-moving subjects a cinch) and anti-motion blur which assists in reducing the effects of shaky hands. Once images are captured, transferring them off the Sony Cyber-Shot is a breeze thanks to one-touch connectivity with Wi-Fi and built-in NFC technology. Additionally, the Sony adds Smart Remote Control for syncing directly with a smartphone for remotely controlling shutter release. Video capabilities - If you plan to record video, consider the quality of the recording; videos recorded in at least 1080p high definition deliver the best clarity upon playback. Portability - Are you taking your camera to a soccer game or on vacation? Consider the size and potential uses. Although a super-zoom camera is excellent for capturing beautiful imagery from afar, you might not want to carry it on a five-hour walking tour.
