The Best Point-And-Shoot Cameras in Canada 

Disclaimer: Since we wanted to make the shopping experience as convenient as possible, we only tried to add Canada-based retailers. Hence, some of the point-and-shoot cameras are sold gently used, while others might remain out of stock (speaking of smaller retailers). If you experience any technical difficulty with provided products, please do not hesitate to let us know, and we will do our best to fix it.

While your smartphone is capable of taking fairly sharp photographs of your kids, vacation and memorable moments, when zoomed in, and tried to print as a poster, you might notice blurry pixels. That is when a point-and-shoot camera becomes a worthy upgrade by offering more zoom power, a larger sensor and overall higher image quality. Digital point-and-shoot cameras are no longer a prime choice for proud parents (who wish to capture their kids participating in sport events) only, but also for professional photographers who are looking for a second, pocket-sized camera.   

The camera’s compact size and a lighter body, compared to DSLRs, is not only useful while travelling, but also when attending parties, or special occasions such as weddings and graduation ceremonies. Point-and-shoot cameras are slightly bigger than smartphones but can be as easily carried in a pocket or a small purse.   

Another advantage of point-and-shoot cameras is the low price point. More affordable than DSLRs and mirror-less cameras, those cameras are ideal for anyone who starts their journey in photography and does not plan to spend thousands of dollars while taking pictures remains just a hobby.   

Surely, point-and-shoot cameras cannot offer the same quality of images as DSLRs. However, with such features as a long optical zoom range, built-in flash, higher image and video quality, acceptable low-light performance and image stabilization in some models, you can easily create quality content for both social media and family photo albums.   

Of course, another factor that makes those cameras far more advanced than smartphones is the production of detailed, crisp videos with 4K recording capability. 

Point-and shoot sensors, that are larger than smartphones’, promise a much more improved picture quality, especially when you are shooting indoors or in a low-light setting. Moreover, point-and-shoot cameras have a built-in fast focus that is more suitable when capturing running kids or pets, and sports events.     

To make it easier for you to find out which camera would meet your photographic ambitions, we prepared a list of the best point-and-shoot cameras on the market. 

Although we do not test every product we suggest, we are committed to completing thorough research. Before we finalized the list of the best point-and-shoot cameras in Canada, we triple-checked each product based on the following factors.  

First, we found out what other buying guides, especially those that specialize in electronics (PC Mag, Digital Camera World, Wirecutter), had to say.  

Second, we analyzed customers’ reviews of each product. Every point-and-shoot camera you find in this guide was approved by hundreds of enthusiasts and professional photographers.  

Third, we only added cameras that earned at least four stars on Amazon, Walmart and other retailers. 

Wide-aperture lens

Shortly put, the wider aperture, the better. A wide aperture takes in more light making shooting at a lower ISO easier, which in the end reduces noise and blur. Moreover, a wide aperture allows you to create portraits with a more pronounced blur behind a person or a pet, (bokeh effect).    

Large sensor

The same principle applies here—for better quality images look for a camera with a large sensor. Cameras with large sensors reduce image noise and easily capture both bright and dark areas. Look for a point-and-shoot camera with at least a 1-inch or larger sensor.   

Wireless connection

Times when the only way to download your photos from the camera was through putting an SD card in a reader on a computer and emailing images to your account, are long ago gone. While it is still one of the ways, newer cameras offer the convenience of connecting to your phone via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or NFC. Keep in mind that to connect designated apps to a point-and-shoot camera you would have to spend some time setting up the bridge between the two devices.   

Design 

Most point-and-shoot cameras are compact and lightweight. Look for a camera that is designed to fit in a pocket or a small purse. In that case, you will be able to carry it anywhere you go and capture all those memorable moments.   

Video quality

If you are planning to record videos, start a YouTube channel, or become a vlogger, high-quality sensors and lenses are a must. Look for a camera that records videos at 1080p resolution and 60 frames per second. Additionally, you want to select a point-and-shoot camera that records at 4K resolution.   

Additional features

Features that are not necessary, but convenient to have, are touchscreen, electronic viewfinder and tilt screen. Touchscreen makes navigating the menu and focus easier, while the tilt screen allows you to shoot below and above your head. The electronic viewfinder makes it easier to shoot on bright sunny days without the uncomfortable glare on the display.  

What is the most durable point-and-shoot camera?

Based on several reviews, among the best point-and-shoot cameras, the most durable camera is the Panasonic Lumix TZ200. The camera offers a one-inch sensor, 15x optical zoom and is built from durable aluminum. The ergonomic design features a comfortable grip and compact size that fits into a small purse or a pocket. Hence, the Panasonic Lumix TZ200 is a combination of a sturdy frame and body, and advanced settings for shooting anywhere you go.   

 What is the difference between point-and-shoot and film cameras?  

Basically, point-and-shoot cameras can do just what is expected of them: point and shoot. Meanwhile, film cameras, in order to take pictures, have to be loaded with rolls of film. Also, film cameras come with already preset focus, length and exposure, while with most point-and-shoot cameras you can choose settings and zoom in or zoom out (depending on a lens).   

 Is a point-and-shoot camera worth it?

Yes, a point-and-shoot camera is worth the price. Whether you are looking for a second, more compact device or want to upgrade the quality of your pictures, (compared to a smartphone camera). A point-and-shoot camera offers a compact design, better image quality and zoom capabilities. The camera is more affordable and lighter than DSLR models, which makes it easier to carry around when travelling.   

Can you take professional photos with a point-and-shoot camera?

Many professional photographers choose point-and-shoot cameras as their second option because they are easily portable (unlike most DSLRs) and are ideal choices for quick snapshots.