Keep it Light with These Advanced Compact Cameras

EDITOR’S CHOICE: Leica Q (Type 116) 

A perfect mix of tradition and modern technology, the full-frame, 24-megapixel Leica Q (Type 116) features the rangefinder styling we love with speedy AF, a burst mode of up to 10fps at full resolution and Wi-Fi. You can easily switch between the EVF (electronic viewfinder) and an LCD that offers touch AF, focus peaking and Live View Zoom for convenience. Its fixed, 28mm lens creates beautiful bokeh at f/1.7 but can be stopped down to f/16 when needed. When 28mm is too wide, choose the 35mm or 50mm crop modes; you’ll lose some resolution but set the camera to RAW + JPEG and the Q saves the full-frame RAW file as well as the cropped JPEG. Yes, you can shoot full HD video with this extremely well-crafted camera, too. 

Price: $4,250

Canon PowerShot G3X

The 20-megapixel Canon PowerShot G3X’s body may be compact but its lens isn’t. A 25x, f/2.8-5.6 optical zoom provides a stabilized focal range of 25-600mm. Better yet, this dust- and water-resistant camera is built around a 1-inch sensor for improved high ISO shooting. Full manual controls, Wi-Fi, a responsive AF and full HD video are only some of the features that round out this camera’s appeal. There’s even a special Star Mode for casual astrophotography, and with its 3.2-inch tilt and touch LCD, you won’t strain your neck when aiming at the stars.

PRICE: $899

Nikon Coolpix P900

Nothing’s out of reach with the Nikon Coolpix P900’s 83x (24-2000mm-equivalent), f/2.8-6.5 optical zoom—the longest zoom range of any camera—or DSLR lens, available today. In addition to 5-stop Dual Detect Optical VR, the P900 offers Framing Assist along with a zoom rocker on the lens barrel for easier telephoto shooting. Manual focus is available and although it lacks a hotshoe and RAW support, the P900 has a built-in flash and a solid feature set, including full HD video. A vari-angle LCD and an EVF are both available and the camera is equipped with built-in Wi-Fi and GPS. Compared to other advanced “compact” models, the 31.8 ounce P900 is pretty hefty but it’s still a featherweight compared to what an imaginary 24-2000mm lens might weigh.

PRICE: $600

Sigma dp0 Quattro 

The fourth camera in Sigma’s Quattro line, the dp0 Quattro features a 21mm-equivalent, f/4 lens and a 39-megapixel, three-layered, Foveon X3 sensor. The middle green-sensitive and red-sensitive layers measure 4.9 megapixels, while the top 19.6-megapixel layer is dedicated to blue channel chrominance and resolution/luminance information for the other two layers. The new model features faster processing, one to two stops better high ISO performance and improved auto color, focus and white balance. The design is unique, so if you’re looking for something a little different inside and out, the dp0 may fit the bill.

PRICE: $999

Panasonic Lumix FZ300 

Panasonic has been a champion of 4K video ever since the GH4 was released, so it’s no surprise that this 12-megapixel megazoom is capable of capturing 4K as well. The FZ300 also offers a trio of 4K Photo modes that pull 8-megapixel stills from movies. A constant f/2.8-aperture, 25-600mm-equivalent, 5-axis image-stabilized zoom lens brings distant subjects closer, even in low light. But ISO 6400 light sensitivity is there when you need it. In addition to multi-process noise reduction, the FZ300 utilizes a new Random Filter feature, which helps blend chromatic noise into the image more naturally. There’s lots more, too, including Wi-Fi and a splashproof/dustproof design for your outdoor adventures.

PRICE: $600

Sony Cyber-Shot RX100 IV

Slip the 20-megapixel Sony RX100 IV into your pocket and you’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish. Shooting still images at up to 16 fps in burst mode or at 1/32,000 second (electronic shutter) is impressive enough, but this tiny camera keeps up with its recent siblings by offering 4K video and super slow motion at 960, 480 or 240 fps. In addition to a full complement of advanced features, the RX100 IV is equipped with a clever (and useful) pop-up EVF and a tiltable LCD. A fast, f/1.8-2.8, 24-70mm equivalent Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens, Wi-Fi and free Phase One Capture One Express (for Sony) RAW support round out
the camera’s long list of fantastic features.

PRICE: $950

Ricoh GR II

Perhaps the most important update to the GR II is built-in Wi-Fi connectivity. GR Remote, a web-based application, can be used to control camera settings and view/share images, while sharing via iOS and Android devices is possible via the Image Sync app. This pocket-sized camera houses a 16-megapixel, APS-C sensor and features a 28mm-equivalent, f/2.8 lens. Measuring a mere 4.6 x 2.5 x 1.4 inches and weighing only 8.9 ounces, this compact camera is perfect for street shooting or any time you want to travel light.

PRICE: $575

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