Last updated on December 7th, 2023
Compact cameras are great for everyday photography, but it can be hard to take good pictures when you can’t see what you’re shooting.
With the popularity of smartphones, it’s no wonder that the compact camera market is shrinking. But don’t worry; there are still some tremendous compact cameras if you know where to look.
We’ve done the research and found the ten best compact cameras with viewfinders. These cameras offer great features and performance in a small package.
Overall Best Compact Camera with Viewfinder
Sony RX100 VII
The biggest draw of the Sony RX100 VII digital camera is its powerful sensor. It has a 1-inch stacked Exmor RS CMOS sensor with a DRAM chip and 20.1 megapixels, making it one of the most potent sensors in image quality and resolution. This means you can take stunning images in low-light settings or when shooting fast-moving objects. Plus, you can shoot in almost any lighting conditions without compromising quality with an ISO range of 80–12800 (expandable up to 25600).
The viewfinder of this camera is one of its best features—it pops up from the top of the body with just one press of a button. This means you can frame your shot accurately from any angle; no more awkward contortions trying to find the right angle! The viewfinder also offers 100% coverage, allowing you to see precisely what will be captured in your shot without any surprises while editing your photos.
The Sony Cyber-Shot RX100 VII also offers impressive speed capabilities—it can shoot up to 20 frames per second with continuous autofocus tracking, allowing you to capture moments as they happen without worrying about focus shifting or blurring your shots due to shutter lag or slow AF speeds. And speaking of autofocus, this camera has 315 focal points and 425 contrast points that cover 68% of the image area for accurate focusing across various subject types—from people to landscapes and everything in between!
What We Like/Dislike About the Sony RX100 VII
Like:
- 20.1MP 1.0″ Exmor RS Stacked CMOS Sensor
- 24–200mm Equivalent F2.8–4.5 Aperture Zoom Lens
- Up to 20 fps Continuous Shooting with AF/AE Tracking
- 425 Phase-Detection AF Points & Real-time Eye AF
- 0.39″ 2.36m-Dot OLED Pop-up viewfinder
- 3.0″ 180° Tilting Touchscreen LCD
Dislike:
- The EVF is somewhat fiddly to use
- The body has a slippery finish
- The controls are small, making them difficult to find and operate in low light
- While it has a dedicated mic jack, there’s no way to mount the mic for recording
- The camera still needs a headphone jack for audio monitoring
What Consumers Are Saying
“The Sony RX100 VII is a great camera for everyday use. It offers the perfect balance of convenience and performance.”
“If you’re looking for a powerful compact camera, check out the Sony RX100 VII.”
“The autofocus system on this camera is lightning fast, making it great for shooting action shots.”
Best Budget Compact Camera with Viewfinder
Canon EOS M50 II
The first thing any photographer looks for in a camera is its viewfinder. The quality of the viewfinder on the Canon EOS M50 II is simply outstanding. This camera has an electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 2.36 million dots and 0.39 inches in size, providing photographers with a clear and detailed view of their subjects. This EVF also has an eye detector. When you bring your eye to the camera, it automatically switches from LCD screen to viewfinder mode for quick and easy composition adjustments.
The Canon EOS M50 II also offers excellent image quality for its price point. It has 24 megapixels and uses Dual Pixel autofocus technology to ensure sharp images every time you press the shutter button. It also has impressive low-light performance thanks to its ISO range of 100-25600 (expandable to 51200). This ensures that you can capture crisp images even in low-light conditions.
Finally, this camera has excellent features like shooting 4K video and Bluetooth connectivity for easy sharing across devices. It also comes with three accessories – an external microphone adapter, remote control unit, and hot shoe cover – so you’ll have everything you need right out of the box!
What We Like/Dislike About the Canon EOS M50 II
Like:
- Interchangeable lens mount
- 24MP APS-C sensor
- Comprehensive autofocus coverage at 10fps
- Swing out the LCD screen
- Integrated eye-level viewfinder
- External microphone support
- Bluetooth, WiFi, and webcam capabilities
Dislike:
- Cropped 4K video with slower autofocus
- Limited battery life
- No support for USB charging
- The small burst capture buffer
What Consumers Are Saying
“Canon’s EOS M50 Mark II offers peerless 4K video capture with PDAF autofocus in an affordable and compact package.”
“The 24MP APS-C sensor, wide focus coverage, 10fps burst shooting capabilities, integrated eye-level EVF, and external microphone support makes the Canon EOS M50 II one of the best cameras for video enthusiasts.”
“The lightweight build combined with compatible lenses gives photographers unparalleled performance in any shooting scenario.”
Runner Up Best Compact Camera with Viewfinder
Fujifilm X100F
The Fujifilm X100F has an impressive 24-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, allowing you to capture sharp, detailed images in any lighting condition. The camera also has an ISO range of 200-12800, which you can extend to 100-51200. This makes the FujiFilm X100F ideal for shooting in low-light situations, allowing you to capture excellent photos even in dimly lit environments.
The Fujifilm X100F has an advanced hybrid viewfinder that combines optical and electronic components. This lets you quickly switch between two different types of viewfinders depending on your preferences and shooting style. When using the optical viewfinder, you can see what is happening inside the lens thanks to its bright and clear optics. On the other hand, when using the electronic viewfinder, you will have access to your camera’s settings and live previews of your photos before taking them.
The Fujifilm X100F has some features that make it perfect for any photographer. It has built-in WiFi connectivity, so you can quickly transfer photos from your camera directly to your computer or smartphone. It also comes with 11 different film simulation modes, which allow you to adjust the colors of your photos and apply special effects based on classic film cameras stocks such as Velvia and Provia. Additionally, it has a maximum shutter speed of 1/4000th of a second and can shoot continuously at up to 8 fps, making it perfect for easy capturing action shots.
What We Like/Dislike About the Fujifilm X100F
Like:
- Excellent image quality in both Raw and JPEG formats
- An incredible hybrid viewfinder for a delightful shooting experience
- In-camera Raw conversion and WiFi capabilities for easy sharing of photos
- An in-lens Neutral Density filter for extra exposure control
- Fast autofocus for taking pictures with confidence.
Dislike:
- It has an AF speed that is not up to contemporary standards
- Has limited and unreliable face detection capabilities
- Only records in 1080p video, which may be outdated for some users
- Lacks lens stabilization technology
What Consumers Are Saying
“The Fujifilm X100F is a classic among pros and advanced amateurs who want great results without the bulk of DSLR cameras.”
“The Fujifilm X100 series consistently delivers image quality that surpasses its class.”
“For anyone looking for a compact camera to replace their heavier DSLRs or mirrorless body, the Fujifilm X100F should be at the top of your list.”
Honorable Mentions
Sony a6000
The Sony a6000 is easy to use, even if you’re unfamiliar with how cameras work. It has an intuitive menu system that makes it simple to adjust settings and on-screen prompts that explain what each setting does. Additionally, the camera comes with several pre-set modes designed to make shooting in different conditions easier, such as a macro mode for close-up shots or landscape mode for landscapes. With these features, it will be easy to get your photos looking great regardless of your experience level.
For all its portability, the Sony a6000 packs quite a punch in terms of performance. It has an impressive 24-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor that delivers crisp images with vivid colors and an autofocus system that can lock onto subjects quickly and accurately. The camera also offers 11fps continuous shooting and 1080p HD video recording capabilities to capture those perfect moments quickly and easily.
The most important feature of the Sony a6000 is its viewfinder – this is what sets it apart from other small cameras on the market today. The viewfinder offers clear images with minimal distortion, so you can compose your shots accurately and efficiently without squinting through an LCD screen in bright sunlight. The LCD screen is also quite good; it tilts upwards 180 degrees, so you can take pictures from high angles without straining your neck too much.
What We Like/Dislike About the Sony a6000
Like:
- Fast autofocus speed
- Good image quality in both JPEG and RAW formats
- Lightweight and compact body
- WiFi connectivity
- Tilting LCD screen for easier framing of shots
Dislike:
- Fixed LCD screen with no LCD touchscreen functionality
- Battery life could be better
- No 4K video recording capability
What Consumers Are Saying
“The Sony a6000 is an excellent compact mirrorless camera for those who want great image quality without spending too much money.”
“The Sony a6000 offers the perfect combination of speed and performance.”
“This camera packs a lot of features in its small body, making it perfect for someone looking for an all-around performer in their photography kit.”
Nikon Z50
The viewfinder on the Nikon Z50 is one of its key features. It’s an electronic viewfinder (EVF) with an approximate resolution of 2,359K dots—more than enough to take clear photos from any angle. The LCD screen is also quite impressive; it measures 3 inches and has 1,037K dots, making it ideally suited for framing shots or reviewing them after they’ve been taken. Both the EVF and LCD screens are tiltable, allowing you to adjust them to your preferred viewing angle.
The image quality of the Nikon Z50 is top-notch thanks to its 20MP APS-C CMOS sensor. This means that you can capture detailed images in any lighting conditions and record 4K video at 30fps. On top of this, the camera also has an ISO range of 100-51,200—a feature that will come in handy if you’re shooting photos in low light settings or capturing fast-moving objects like racecars or wildlife.
When it comes to performance, the Nikon Z50 delivers. It can shoot up to 11 frames per second (fps) with continuous autofocus. This means you won’t miss a beat when trying to capture fast-moving objects like flying birds or sports action shots. Furthermore, its EXPEED 6 processor helps reduce noise levels even further, making your photos look clean and crisp every time.
What We Like/Dislike About the Nikon Z50
Like:
- 20.9 megapixels sensor
- 4K video recording capability
- Weather sealed body
- Built-in stabilization system
- Tilting touchscreen LCD, perfect for vloggers
Dislike:
- Autofocus speed could be faster with more focus points available
- Battery life is shorter when compared to other cameras in its class
- Heavy crop factor when shooting in 4K
What Consumers Are Saying
“The Nikon Z50 is a great option for anyone looking to jump into the world of mirrorless cameras.”
“The Z50 is a solid option if you’re looking for a good quality, budget-friendly camera.”
“The Z50 packs all the features and performance you need into a compact body, making it perfect for an entry-level photographer.”
Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ1000 II
First, this camera has an impressive 20.1MP 1-inch sensor capable of capturing stunning images with exceptional detail and clarity. It also comes with a 16x optical zoom lens that allows you to capture distant subjects without distortion or loss in image quality. This makes it perfect for nature and other types of photography where you need to get close to your subject.
The Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ1000 II also boasts 4K video recording capabilities, which means you can capture ultra-high resolution videos in incredible detail. It also has built-in WiFi connectivity, so you can instantly share your photos and videos with friends and family.
One feature that sets this camera apart from other premium compact cameras is its electronic viewfinder (EVF). This feature allows you to preview your shots before taking them and also helps reduce eye strain while shooting in bright light conditions like outdoors. The 2,359K dot OLED 045″ EVF provides sharp, detailed images to see exactly what you’re shooting before pushing the shutter button!
What We Like/Dislike About the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ1000 II
Like:
- 16x zoom lens
- 1-inch image sensor
- Vari-angle touch LCD
- Large, crisp electronic viewfinder (EVF)
- Quick autofocus
- 4K video recording with microphone input
Dislike:
- Missing dust and splash protection
- Not as sturdy as some competitors
What Consumers Are Saying
“A quality lens that even experienced photographers can appreciate.”
“It’s a well-equipped camera that provides great user images.”
“The Fujifilm zoom lens is a great example of cutting-edge technology used in photography today.”
Panasonic LX100 II
The Panasonic LX100 II is a tremendous digital compact camera with a viewfinder. It’s a good choice for photographers who want a quality camera that is easy to carry around. The LX100 II has a 16-megapixel sensor and an f/2.8-4.0 Leica Summilux lens. It also has 4K video recording and a 3-inch LCD screen.
One thing that makes the LX100 II a great camera is its built-in electronic viewfinder. This viewfinder gives you a clear view of your subject, even in bright sunlight. The LCD screen is also helpful for composing your shots and reviewing your photos.
Another advantage of the LX100 II is its fast autofocus system. This system allows you to take sharp photos, even if your subject moves around. The fast autofocus system is also helpful when you’re taking video footage.
What We Like/Dislike About the Panasonic LX100 II
Like:
- A bright zoom lens
- Micro Four Thirds image sensor
- Fast burst shooting at up to 11 frames per second
- Intuitive control layout
- Touchscreen LCD
- 4K video and photo options
- Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity
Dislike:
- Pricey compared to other models
- Not as pocket friendly as some other models
- No built-in flash
- Fixed LCD
- No microphone input
What Consumers Are Saying
“The Panasonic Lumix LX100 II is a fantastic option for serious photographers seeking an advanced compact.”
“The Lumix LX100 II offers excellent image quality and features for its class and size.”
“The LX100 II is the perfect camera if you want DSLR-level performance in a pocketable package.”
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 produces images that are impressively sharp and detailed. This is thanks to the 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor, which is about twice the size of the sensors found in most compact digital cameras. The larger sensor means that the GX85 can capture more light, resulting in less grainy images and better color reproduction.
In addition, the GX85 has a Venus Engine image processor, which enhances image quality by reducing noise and increasing detail retention. This image processor also allows the GX85 to shoot at high speeds, up to 10 frames per second, with continuous autofocus.
The GX85 is equipped with an electronic viewfinder, which is a big plus for those who like to have the option of using one. The viewfinder has 2,360k dots of resolution, making it very sharp and clear. It also has 100% frame coverage, so you’ll be able to see what you’re shooting without any black borders around the edges.
In addition to its excellent image quality and viewfinder, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 has several other features that make it worth considering. For example, it has 5-axis image stabilization, compensating for camera shaking when handheld. This feature is handy when shooting in low light or using long focal lenses.
The GX85 also has 4K video recording capabilities, allowing you to capture stunning video footage up to 30 frames per second. And if you like to take selfies, you’ll be happy to know that the GX85 has a flip-down LCD screen that makes it easy to do just that.
What We Like/Dislike About the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85
Like:
- Compact design
- Built-in electronic viewfinder and flash
- Tilting touch screen display
- Quick autofocus speed
- 8.6 frames per second continuous shooting with a large buffer
- 30 frames per second 4K Photo mode
- 5-axis image stabilization for sharper photos
- 4K video quality capability
- WiFi connectivity for easy sharing
Dislike:
- The 4K video is slightly cropped
- It does not feature weather sealing
- The shooting rate may slow while capturing Raw or AF-C images
- The screen does not face forward for taking selfies
- No microphone input
What Consumers Are Saying
“The [Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85] offers a lot of bang for your buck with an impressive range of features and high-quality in a relatively compact body.”
“The GX85 is an excellent choice for those who want an easy-to-use camera without sacrificing image quality or features.”
“The 5-axis dual image stabilization, fast autofocus, and 4K video capture make this camera a great option for photographers and videographers of all levels.”
Olympus OM-D E-M10 IV
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 IV produces stunning images with its 20MP Micro Four Thirds CMOS sensor and TruePic™ VIII image processor. This combination ensures accurate colors, crisp details, and excellent low-light performance. Plus, the camera can shoot up to 15 frames per second to capture fast action shots or record 4K video.
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 IV has been designed to be as lightweight and portable as possible without sacrificing features or performance. It weighs just 1 pound (450g) and measures 4.5 x 3 x 2 inches (115 x 78 x 50mm). This makes it perfect for traveling or outdoor hiking or biking. Plus, it has built-in WiFi, so you can easily share your photos with friends and family.
One of the best features of the Olympus OM-D E-M10 IV is its viewfinder and LCD screen combination. The viewfinder provides an accurate preview of your image, while the LCD screen allows you to adjust settings quickly and easily without squinting into a tiny viewfinder. The camera also has a robust menu system that makes navigating through options simple and intuitive.
What We Like/Dislike About the Olympus OM-D E-M10 IV
Like:
- Ability to capture fantastic images with a 20MP sensor
- Improved image stabilization
- Easily accessible flip-down touchscreen
- Super compact body to fit in camera bags
- Hundreds of economical lens options
Dislike:
- Flip-down selfie screen is not suitable for video capture
- Contrast focusing isn’t ideal for fast-moving subjects
- 5fps burst shooting with autofocus is on the slower side
- No support for external microphones
What Consumers Are Saying
“The Olympus OM-D E-M10 IV is a great choice for those looking to up their photography game.”
“Whether shooting landscapes or close-ups, the E-M10 IV delivers stunning images every time.”
“For convenience and superb picture quality, look no further than the Olympus E-M10 IV camera.”
Leica D-Lux 7
The Leica D-Lux 7 has an integrated electronic viewfinder (EVF), which allows photographers to use it in bright sunlight or in low-light situations where they might need to remain unseen. The resolution of this EVF is 0.53M dots compared to the 1.23M dots on the rear LCD, and it also has 100% field coverage when used with its 4K video capability at 24fps and FHD video up to 60fps. The viewfinder also helps to reduce glare due to its position at eye level, allowing you to see your subject clearly, even in bright conditions.
The Leica D-Lux 7 offers excellent image quality thanks to its 20MP Four Thirds sensor and Venus Engine processor combination. The combination creates detailed images even in low-light situations, making this camera perfect for those who want their pictures to be sharp and vivid, no matter the lighting. This combination also enables fast autofocus performance, allowing you to capture each moment quickly and precisely without worrying about blurry shots or missed opportunities.
This versatile camera can easily handle any shooting situation thanks to its wide range of features and settings that are easily adjustable with just a few clicks of your mouse or taps on your smartphone’s touchscreen interface. Whether you’re shooting landscapes, portraits, action shots, or macro photography—the Leica D-Lux 7 will deliver stunning results every time! Plus, it’s small enough to easily carry it wherever you go without worrying about it taking up too much space in your bag or pocket.
What We Like/Dislike About the Leica D-Lux 7
Like:
- Leica Camera that is Affordable
- Manual controls
- 4K Video and Photos
- Aspect Ratio Button Built-In
- Remote access is available on the Android/iOS App
- Battery Life is Respectable
Dislike:
- Poor low-light performance
- Still expensive
What Consumers Are Saying
“The Leica D-Lux 7 offers an amazing combination of advanced features and creative possibilities for budding and professional photographers alike.”
“Every photo taken with the Leica D-Lux 7 is a work of art, no matter the subject.”
“The Leica D-Lux 7 captures stunning images that will make any photographer proud.”
Conclusion: Best Compact Cameras with Viewfinders
In conclusion, compact cameras with viewfinders can be an excellent choice for photographers who want the convenience of a compact camera but prefer the more traditional style of composition. They offer many of the same features as other compact cameras, such as image stabilization and auto-focus capabilities. Their small size makes them easy to carry around, and they can fit in almost any pocket or bag. The optical viewfinder offers a more accurate way to compose images, allowing photographers to take better-composed pictures and adjust the exposure accordingly. While compact cameras with viewfinders can be more expensive than other compact options, they offer many advantages that make them worth the investment for photographers who need an easy-to-use, compact camera with excellent image quality.
FAQ
What are compact cameras with viewfinders?
Compact cameras with viewfinders are compact cameras that feature an optical or electronic viewfinder to help you compose your shots. Unlike other compact camera options, these cameras give you a better sense of what the image will look like before taking it, making them ideal for photographers on the go.
How do I choose a compact camera with a viewfinder?
When choosing a compact camera with a viewfinder, it’s essential to consider the size of the sensor, the image resolution, and your budget. You’ll also want to ensure that it has all the features you need for your photography styles, such as manual settings or WiFi capabilities. Additionally, look at reviews from other photographers who have used the camera and read up on any additional features or add-ons you may need.
What are the advantages of compact cameras with viewfinders?
Compact cameras with viewfinders offer several advantages compared to other compact camera options. They provide more accurate framing and composition and improved control over exposure settings. They also offer more manual control, which is excellent for photographers who want to tweak their settings and fine-tune the image quality. Additionally, compact cameras with viewfinders are usually more compact and lightweight than DSLR cameras, making them easier to carry around and transport.
