Best Travel Cameras On A Budget: Under $200

what are good cameras for travel under 200

When it comes to travel cameras under $200, the market is limited to compact cameras. However, there are some great options that are perfect for travelling, whether you're looking for something lightweight and portable, or a camera that's waterproof and shockproof. Here's a roundup of some of the best travel cameras under $200.

The Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS is a compact camera with a 12x optical zoom and image stabilisation, all for under $200. It's small and lightweight, making it perfect for travel, and it has a dedicated Wi-Fi button for easy sharing of images.

The Nikon Coolpix S7000 is another ultra-compact camera with an impressive 20x zoom, great for taking photos of both people and landscapes. It has a range of scene modes and in-camera special effects, and its Target Finding autofocus feature allows for quick and accurate shots.

The Samsung WB350F is a stylish, ultra-compact smart camera with a 21x optical zoom and impressive wireless capabilities. You can set up automatic backup of your photos to a Windows PC, and even use the camera in combination with your tablet for a makeshift video baby monitor.

The Sony DSCW800 is a simple, lightweight, and compact camera that's perfect for throwing in your bag or pocket. It has a range of scene modes and manual controls, and while it may not produce the best image quality, it's a fun and affordable alternative to your smartphone.

The Fuji FinePix XP90 is a waterproof compact camera that's perfect for capturing photos underwater. It has a 5x optical zoom and a bright 3-inch screen with an anti-reflective coating, making it visible in bright sunlight and underwater.

For instant film cameras, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic and the colourful Fujifilm Instax Mini 8 are great options that are sure to provide hours of fun.

Lastly, if you're looking for an action camera, the GoPro HERO Session and the YI 4K Action Camera are both compact and affordable options that offer unique first-person-perspective shots.

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Compact cameras for travel

Compact cameras are a natural choice for travel thanks to their small size and built-in zoom lenses. While smartphone cameras have continued to improve, compact cameras offer improved image quality with larger sensors than those typically found in phones. Here are some of the best compact cameras for travel under $200:

Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS

With 12x optical zoom and image stabilisation, this pocketable camera is small but mighty. The 12x zoom range is equivalent to a 25-300mm lens on a 35mm camera, meaning that you can go from wide-angle to distant shots of wildlife. The camera features a dedicated Wi-Fi button that allows for easy sharing of images over Wi-Fi and NFC. It also has a neat Intelligent IS mode, which helps even novice photographers capture clear, steady images in low light.

Nikon Coolpix S7000

This camera sports an impressive 20x zoom, meaning roughly 25 to 500mm of equivalent zoom on a bigger camera. It produces sharp images featuring realistic colours and is available in black, white, pink and gold. It includes multiple in-camera special effects, and 18 scene modes that you’ll find useful for taking good photos in challenging situations.

Samsung WB350F

This camera is packed with wireless technology, allowing you to transfer images straight to your computer or mobile device. It also has a 21x optical zoom and a 16.3-megapixel backside-illuminated CMOS sensor, which needs less light for proper exposure and quick focus than conventional sensors. It features full manual controls, and its touch screen functionality is a welcome inclusion.

Sony DSCW800

This camera is aimed at beginners and includes several scene modes to help capture decent shots in tricky environments. It offers manual control of exposure compensation, white balance and ISO. It is compact and lightweight, and overall image quality is so-so, but for a camera under $100, it's hard to complain.

Fuji FinePix XP90

This is a waterproof compact camera that can be used underwater down to depths of up to 15m. It has a 5x optical zoom, a bright 3-inch screen, and a dedicated 'Burst mode' button that lets you instantly switch into continuous shooting mode. It also has Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing you to remotely control the camera and transfer photos wirelessly.

Kodak PIXPRO FZ55

This is a no-nonsense, pocket-sized point-and-shoot camera perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a phone camera upgrade. It features a 16.15-megapixel 1/2.3-inch sensor and a zoom range equivalent to 28-140mm on a full-frame camera. It doesn't have a viewfinder, and the screen is hard to see in bright sunlight, but it's a great buy for the price.

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Instant film cameras

Fujifilm Instax Mini 11

The Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 is a compact and user-friendly instant camera that produces credit card-sized prints. It offers a simple design with just a few basic controls, making it perfect for beginners. The camera has a built-in flash and a small selfie mirror, and it runs on two AA batteries. The Fujifilm Instax Mini 11 can be found for under $70, and the film packs are widely available.

Kodak Mini Shot

The Kodak Mini Shot is a unique instant camera that uses 4Pass Photo Paper to produce sharp and vibrant credit card-sized prints. It offers a range of features, including a mobile app that allows you to print photos from your smartphone. However, the printing process is slow, and the wide-angle lens can distort images. The Kodak Mini Shot typically retails for under $100.

Canon Ivy Cliq+2

The Canon Ivy Cliq+2 is a stylish and compact instant camera that produces high-quality wallet-sized photos. It offers a range of features, including a selfie mirror and a built-in flash. The camera is easy to use and has a rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars on Best Buy. The Canon Ivy Cliq+2 is available for under $100, and the film packs are easy to find.

Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo

The Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo is a hybrid instant and digital camera that offers the best of both worlds. It allows you to preview and edit your photos before printing, add creative effects, and even print photos from your smartphone. The camera uses Instax Mini film, which is widely available and affordable. The Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo typically retails for under $200.

Fujifilm Instax Wide 400

The Fujifilm Instax Wide 400 is a great option if you prefer wide, landscape-oriented images. It produces high-quality 2.4" x 3.9" images with classic white borders, perfect for landscape shots and group photos. The camera is easy to use and has a sleek design. The Fujifilm Instax Wide 400 is available for under $140, and the film packs are easy to find.

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Waterproof cameras

If you're looking for something more versatile, the OM System Tough TG-7 is a compact and rugged waterproof camera with a 4x zoom and useful photography features. It's waterproof up to 15m and can also survive dust, drops, crushing, and freezing temperatures. The Panasonic Lumix TS7 / FT7 is another excellent choice, known for its impressive 31m waterproof rating and built-in electronic viewfinder.

For those who want a miniature waterproof camera, the Insta360 Go 3S is a tiny yet versatile option. It comes with modular accessories, including a flip-up touchscreen Action Pod, making it perfect for capturing unique angles. While the Action Pod is only water-resistant, the camera itself is waterproof up to 10m.

If you're looking for a waterproof camera with LED lights, the Ricoh WG-80 is a great choice. It's waterproof up to 14m and features a 5x optical zoom and six LED macro lights around the lens, making it ideal for illuminating underwater subjects.

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Action cameras

GoPro HERO10 Black

The GoPro HERO10 Black is a waterproof action camera capable of capturing 5.3K60 Ultra HD video and 27MP photos. It features a front LCD screen, a touch rear screen, and built-in stabilization for smooth footage. It also offers live streaming and webcam functionality. This camera is a great option for those seeking a versatile and feature-rich action camera.

AKASO Brave 7 LE

The AKASO Brave 7 LE is an action camera that offers 4K30FPS video recording and 20MP photos. It has a touch screen, EIS 2.0 zoom, and remote control capabilities. The camera is waterproof up to 33 feet and comes with two 1350mAh batteries. It also includes a 64GB MicroSDXC memory card. The AKASO Brave 7 LE is a good choice for those seeking a waterproof action camera with touch screen controls and remote functionality.

DJI Action 2 Dual-Screen Combo (32GB)

The DJI Action 2 Dual-Screen Combo is an action camera that offers 4K video recording with dual OLED touchscreens and a 155-degree FOV. It features stabilization technology and is ideal for underwater use. This camera comes with a 32GB memory card and magnetic attachments. The DJI Action 2 is a good option for those seeking a waterproof action camera with dual screens and stabilization technology.

AKASO EK7000 SE 4K

The AKASO EK7000 SE 4K is a waterproof action camera that offers 4K/30FPS video recording and 20MP photos. It has a 170-degree wide-angle lens and a wireless wrist remote control. The camera is waterproof up to 98 feet with the included housing. The AKASO EK7000 SE 4K is a good choice for those seeking a waterproof action camera with a remote control and a wide-angle lens.

Rexing A1 Wi-Fi Action Camera

The Rexing A1 Wi-Fi Action Camera is a unique camera that records front and rear views simultaneously using dual lenses (1920p+1080p). It is waterproof and easy to operate, making it a good choice for capturing adventures. The Rexing A1 is a good option for those seeking a dual-lens action camera for recording front and rear views simultaneously.

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Point-and-shoot cameras

Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS

With 12x optical zoom and image stabilisation, this compact camera is perfect for travel. It has a 20.2-megapixel CMOS sensor and a DIGIC 4+ image processor, delivering sharp and vivid photos. The camera also features built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for easy sharing of images.

Nikon Coolpix S7000

This ultra-compact camera packs a lot of punch for its small size. It has a 20x zoom lens, allowing for versatile shooting options. The image quality is excellent, with sharp images and realistic colours. It also has SnapBridge Wi-Fi and NFC technology for easy photo transfer.

Samsung WB350F

The Samsung WB350F is a stylish and feature-rich ultra-compact smart camera. It has a 16.3-megapixel backside-illuminated CMOS sensor for improved low-light performance and a 21x optical zoom lens. It also offers full manual controls and touch screen functionality. Additionally, it has impressive wireless capabilities, allowing for easy photo sharing and remote control via a smartphone.

Sony DSCW800

The Sony DSCW800 is a compact and lightweight camera that is perfect for travel. It has a 20.1-megapixel sensor and a 5x zoom lens. While it may not have the best image quality, it is still a good alternative to a smartphone camera. It also has manual control options for exposure compensation, white balance, and ISO.

Fuji FinePix XP90

The Fuji FinePix XP90 is a waterproof compact camera that is perfect for travel adventures. It has a 16.4-megapixel sensor and a 5x optical zoom lens. It is also shockproof, dustproof, and freezeproof, making it a durable option for outdoor use. The camera features a bright 3-inch screen with an anti-reflective coating and wireless capabilities for remote control and photo transfer.

Kodak PIXPRO FZ55

This is a highly affordable and traditional zoom compact camera. It has a 16.15-megapixel 1/2.3-inch sensor and a zoom range equivalent to 28-140mm on a full-frame camera. It also has a 6x digital zoom for closer shots. While it may not have a viewfinder and struggles in bright sunlight, it is a great option for beginners or those looking for an upgrade from their phone camera.

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