1080p Camera Search (2015)

2015 Winner: Olympus XZ-2

February 26, 2019 Update: I am now using the iPhone XS Max for most of my photography. I still have the Olympus XZ-2 iHS and use it frequently.

This page is just for archive purposes, as the Olympus XZ-2 iHS is no longer available (As well as most of the other cameras mentioned on this page.)

I am working on a 4k page for a 2023 trip to Disney.

Best 1080p Camera for Disney World

In early 2015, we are planning a trip to Walt Disney World. As an avid Disney park fan, I plan to take a lot of high quality videos on this trip. Before we head out, I want to research the perfect video camera to take on our the trip. I want to get the perfect compact system camera to capture the memories. Remember: The best photo you take is the one when the camera is in your hand. Let's make sure that we have the right one when "I walk down the middle of Main Street USA."

Look you don't need to know anything about Aperture, Shutter Speed and Sensor Size, to understand this page. This site is focus on unbias look of different camera types. I'll provide links to other more detailed technical reviews. Here's a tip, you should look for cameras that has a good Sensor Size and Aperture. The lower the Aperture, the better ability the camera to take pictures in low light conditions. Why is low light importaint? Many rides are in low light condiditons.

This could be be the last camera I buy that will be using the HD 1080p standards, in a few years it will be all about 4K - the latest hot video standard. Many highend cameras already have this feature, But since YouTube and TVs don't support it yet, there's no need to consider it.

If your confused with all the choices, consider only the cameras in the "Excellent Cameras" category, in my opinion, they are the best of the best. The ultimate goal of putting together this page is to find the highest quality video in a point and shoot camera in the $300 - $400 price range.

Daily Status update

February 26, 2019 - My primary camera is the iPhone XS Max. I still use the Olympus XZ-2 iHS when I need to take low light video.

December 2, 2014 - Olympus XZ-2 iHS is no longer selling for $299. Olympus has ended the sale period for this camera and the camera is currently selling for $599. The Olympus XZ-2 iHS is a great camera, but I don't feel it's worth $599.

October 2, 2014 - Now that the camera hunt is over, there will be no more updates to this page. If you want to learn more about the Olympus XZ-2 iHS, check out the new Olympus page. I'll keep this page to help others trying to find the perfect camera.

October 1, 2014 - The BlackRapid SnapR looks to be a good option to carry the point and shoot camera while in the Disney parks.

September 30, 2014 - I made my decision and finally decided that the Olympus XZ-2 iHS would be the best camera to use. During my research I discovered that the Sony RX-100 is the best camera in the category. If you can afford the $700+ price tag for a point and shoot camera get the Sony RX100.

September 26, 2014 - Currently the Olympus XZ-2 iHS has the edge because of the flip screen advantage. I can really see that being more useful feature than having a lower Aperture which the Panasonic LX7 has.

September 25, 2014 - Olympus has the XZ-2 iHS on sale on their website. I am not sure if the $300 price break is worth it over the LX7. They had a similar sale back in February.

September 24, 2014 - I got an email about why I haven't considered the $newgoogle. I'll add these reviews to this page later. I'll also add a Pros/Cons to each camera.

September 23, 2014 - I learned that in September, 2012 Leica started shipping D-Lux 6 which was made to compete with the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-LX7. The D-Lux 6 is way over budget now selling at $799 on Amazon.

September 17, 2014 - Now watching any deals on the Panasonic LUMIX DMC-LX7 and Canon PowerShot S120, Snapsort has it a close race. findthebest.com says the Canon PowerShot S120 is the better camera.

Existing Camera Inventory

I currently have four video recording devices that I can use. All of these work perfectly well, but I know that I can do better.

CameraVideo QualityResolutions  Reason for not using
Sony DCR-TRV7201280 x 720576iThis is an old video camera that captures video in a 720 resolution.
FinePix e900640 x 480480iLow Quality MPEG Video, 1/1.6" Sensor Size, 9 Megapixels and old announced in January 2006
Flip Micro HD1280 x 720720pCaptures video at 720p. (Low Quality)
iPhone 5s1920 x 10801080pLimited storage space and video control. Poor Video Stabilization, Low Sensor size (1/3") which leads to poor video quality in low light conditions.
iPhone 6s Plus4032 x 3024Limited storage space and video control. Better Video Stabilization, Low Sensor size (1/3") which leads to poor video quality in low light conditions.
Olympus XZ-2 iHS3968 x 2976Unlimited Storage

Key criteria that I am using in this research

Some features to consider when looking for the perfect HD compact system camera for Walt Disney World:

 Key FeatureReasoningFeature/Functionality to Watch
 Must have 1080p video capture capability.1080p is the best video quality in 2014.Full HD Video
 Excellent Battery lifeI don't want to carry or buy a lot of extra batteriesBattery Life
 Works in Low light conditions.Many rides are in a low light conditions.Excellent Shutter Speed, Sensor Size and Low Aperture Settings ( f/2.8 or f/1.8)
 Good AudioSound can be as importaint as the videoStereo microphone would be great!
 Good Quality VideosCamera should produce clear videosCamera/Manufactor that focus on Quality videos
 Low cost Camera ($200 - $500)Not looking to make a Hollywood movie.Sales and Promotions available
 The captured video not in a proprietary formatNeed be easy to edit in iMovieVideo Capture in MP4 video
 LightweightI don't want to carry bulky stuff around all day.Camera Body Weight/Size Ratio
 Video StabilizationStabilization produces smoother videos Hardware Stabilization is better
 Angle Adjustable LCDMakes it easy to view the screen when the camera is lowMoveable LCD screen is better

Winning Camera - Olympus XZ-2 iHS

1080p Video Capture Full HD: 1920(H)x1080(V), 30p (29.97fps) Recording: 18Mbp, Aspect 16:9
Low light conditions6,400 ISO
Sensor Size1/1.7" CMOS Sensor
Maximum ApertureF1.8 - F2.5
Street Value$299
Lightweight12.6 oz (357 g)
Video StabilizationBuilt in Imager shift image stabilizer
Angle Adjustable LCDFlip Screen
HD: 1280x720, 30p Recording: 9Mbp, Aspect 16:9

After months of looing around for the best camera, I settled for the Olympus XZ-2 iHS because of the flip screen and the price. I decided that having the flip screen would be more valuable than a low Aperture.

Announced on September 17, 2012, this camera seems to be a good choice for taking low light video and pictures. This is on sale on Olympus website for $299. While Panasonic LX7 offers a slight better Aperture, this camera does have a flip screen which may offer better videos.

Industry Review
The XZ-2 also features Full HD Video recording, which takes advantage of the Touch AF Shutter function (press the 3.0-inch touch screen, and the camera will focus on that spot while you shoot video, or focus and snap a still photo). DUAL Image Stabilization will keep your stills clear and your video smooth. iAuto will let the camera pick and choose settings for less experience shutterbugs (hey, they call them "point-and-shoot" for a reason!). But if you're feeling adventurous, try out one of the 11 Art Filters or 5 Art Effects. - Steve Digicams

The Olympus XZ-2 enthusiast compact camera features a 12MP 1/1.7" back-illumination CMOS sensor and touch-screen. The XZ-2 features the same 28-112mm equivalent F1.8-2.5 lens as the XZ-1 but adds a more modern sensor, screw-on hand grips, tilting touch-screen and a two-mode control dial around the lens. In one mode the dial features click-stops, allowing control over discrete features such as aperture or exposure compensation, but flip the switch on the front of the camera and the ring rotates smoothly, and switches to controlling zoom or manual focus. - Digital Photography Review

Marketing Material
Combine the ease-of-use of a point and shoot with the image quality of a more advanced camera and you get the Olympus XZ-2. This premium compact helps you push the creative envelope with an arsenal of amazing technology. A super-fast f1.8 iZuiko lens and a large, high-sensitivity BSI (Backside-Illuminated) CMOS Sensor help capture brilliant low light shots. Experienced photographers will love how the XZ-2's full manual controls are effortless to access and use. Feed your creative side with 11 Art Filters and 5 Effects, one-touch HD video and an accessory port for flashes and viewfinders. The XZ-2. Pro features packed in one awesomely creative compact.

Pro: Flip Screen, good video quailty, low price
Con:Not that many movie features, slightly bulky

Video Samples

Serious Contender Cameras

Panasonic LUMIX DMC-LX7

1080p Video Capture[HD Video] 1920 x 1080 pixels, 60p (PSH: 28Mbps / AVCHD) (Sensor Output is 60fps) / 1920 x 1080 pixels, 60i (FSH: 17Mbps / AVCHD) (Sensor Output is 60fps) / 1280 x 720 pixels, 60p(SH: 17Mbps / AVCHD) (Sensor Output is 60fps) / 1920 x 1080 pixels, 30 fps (FHD: 20Mbps / MP4) (Sensor Output is 30fps) / 1280 x 720 pixels, 30 fps (HD: 10Mbps / MP4) (Sensor Output is 30fps) / [STD Video] 640 x 480 pixels, 30 fps (VGA: 4Mbps / MP4) (Sensor Output is 30fps) / [Hi Speed Video] 1280 x 720 pixels, 30fps (MP4) (Sensor Output is 120fps)
Battery life330 pictures Li-ion Battery Pack (3.6V, Minimum: 1250mAh)
Low light conditions4,000 ISO
Sensor Size1/1.7-inch High Sensitivity MOS Sensor / 12.8 Total Megapixels / Primary Color Filter
Maximum ApertureF1.4 - F2.3
Street Value$397
Lightweight298g
Video StabilizationPower O.I.S.
Angle Adjustable LCDNo

Announced on July 17, 2012, the tech reviews for this camera indicates that it is a good choice for taking low light video and pictures. There's a review on versus.com that shows the difference between the LX7 and Canon S120

Industry Review
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX7 ($499) is the long-awaited replacement to the very popular DMC-LX5. The LX5 (and its predecessors) was well known for its low light ability, and Panasonic has improved on that in two ways. First, there's the LX7's lens: with a maximum aperture range of F1.4 - F2.3, it lets in way more light than what you'd find on a compact camera. The fast aperture range also allows for better background blurring than what you'll find on nearly every fixed-lens camera on the market. In addition, the LX7's sensor and image processor have both been improved, allowing for less noise at high sensitivities. - Digital Photography Review

Marketing Material
The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-LX7 10.1-megapixel digital camera is a more portable solution than a DSLR, without limiting your creativity or optical performance. The DMC-LX7 boasts a newly developed 24mm ultra wide-angle LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMILUX lens with F1.4 brightness at the widest end and F2.3 at the telephoto end. The large aperture gives you the power to make photos with a shallow depth-of-field. You'll make portraits with gorgeous, soft backgrounds, as well as capture low light scenes you might miss with another camera. Breathtaking landscapes, environmental portraits, cityscapes, or shooting in a tight space is a breeze with the 24mm ultra wide-angle lens. The DMC-LX7 delivers an advanced lens system making it easy to produce beautiful, high-resolution photos with minimal distortion and a pleasing, soft-focused background.

Pro: F1.4 aperture, portable, great video quailty
Con: No flip screen, relatively expensive

Video Samples

Canon PowerShot S120

1080p Video CaptureYes
Battery life
Low light conditions ISO 80-12800
Sensor Size1/1.7-inch CMOS
Maximum ApertureF1.8 - F5.7
Street Value$384
Video Capture1920 x 1080: 60 fps (59.94), 30 fps
Lightweight2 pounds
Video StabilizationSix Different Modes

On August 22, 2013, Canon updated the Powershot line with more powerful video capabilities and some nice photo features. This camera makes it a sure win over the Canon PowerShot s110, I need to decide if it worth spending $100 more is worth the extra features. I read that the Sony DSC-RX100 has a better low light quality than this camera. The Canon PowerShot S120 keeps coming up as the better camera for portability, so if your looking for a camera that you can stick in your pocket and use it on a fly, the S120 might be a good option.

Canon Marketing Snip
The PowerShot S120 camera puts the world in your pocket with superb imaging, easy wireless sharing and touch-screen convenience. Newly expanded built-in Wi-Fi is a snap to set up; it lets you post to Facebook, Twitter, YouTube and Flickr, send to email, and share easily with your tablet, smartphone, networked PC and wireless PictBridge certified printer. Step up to a new level of image quality with a 12.1 Megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS Sensor and DIGIC 6 Image Processor that together create the Canon HS SYSTEM, delivering rich natural color and beautiful clarity even in low light. Shoot with great definition at ISO speeds from 80 to 12800, and capture brilliantly realistic 1080p/60p Full HD video. The camera's bright f/1.8 lens captures the subtle nuances of low light, and the 24mm Wide-Angle lens and 5x Optical Zoom offer a wealth of shooting versatility. Experience incredibly quick full resolution continuous shooting with High Speed AF that focuses nearly the moment the camera is pointed. Operation is highly intuitive with a clear 922,000-dot 3.0-inch touch panel LCD screen with convenient Touch Shutter feature. Intelligent IS prevents blur in any situation. New star shooting modes help you capture the nighttime sky like a pro, and Background Defocus mode creates the beautiful background blur of a classic portrait. HDR shooting is another pro-style technique made easy, with several creative finishing options. [Canon Product Page] and [Wikipage]

Camera Labs Review
Camera Labs review says "As it stands though the S120 can still be squeezed into most pockets which keeps it unique against most of its competition - indeed only the Lumix LF1 challenges it in this regard. And if it is a genuinely pocketable enthusiast-class compact you're after then you should be comparing the S120 very closely against the LF1 and also seeing what that extra 1cm of thickness gets you from the RX100 II. But for me even against such rivals the S120 remains a highly compelling camera and one I'd be very happy to carry around as a backup to a system camera or even by itself for many situations. As such it remains Highly Recommended."

Pro: Portable, great video quailty
Con: No flip screen, F1.8

Video Samples

Check out the compairson of the Canon PowerShot S120 vs the Canon PowerShot S110, see what features are better on which camera.

Considered

1080p Video CaptureModes: Smart Scene Detection, Movie, Magic Plus (Picture in Picture) - Format: MP4 (H.264) - Size: 1920 X 1080, 1280 X 720, 640 X 480, 320 X 240 - High-speed: 480fps (192 X 144), 240fps (384 X 288), 120fps (640 X 480) - Sound Alive - Image Stabilizer - Capturing during recording
Battery life260 Shot Battery Life
Low light conditions12800 iso
Sensor Size1/1.7"
Maximum ApertureF1.4 - F2.7
Street Value$249.99
Lightweight12.8 oz
Video StabilizationDual IS
Angle Adjustable LCD3.0" Swivel VGA AMOLED Display

Not 100% sure about this camera, as it's using Android OS. I have seen very good reviews, and it's the best camera picture quality that has an angle adjustable LCD. I'll put this on the top of the Potentials for now. I notice that Samsung is selling this for $249, a great price but no online realtor or local store has this model. Could this be discountinued? B&H says it's "No Longer Available." This seems to be the best camera that offers a f1.4 Aperture with a flip/Swivel screen.

Samsung Marketing Snip
The Brightest F1.4, 24mm, 3.3x Lens
With an impressive F1.4 lens, the EX2F delivers a wider range of aperture steps and shallow depth-of-field, providing the ability to blur out the background of your images while keeping the focus on the subject. Plus, the equipped ND(Neutral Density) filter reduces the intensity of light in bright sunlight adding more dimension to your photo.

3.0" Swivel VGA AMOLED Display
The AMOLED Swivel Display lets you shoot from just about any angle. Compared to the TFT-LCD found on most digital cameras, the EX2F's AMOLED display has deeper blacks and more accurate, vivid colors. Plus, the display maximizes battery life so you can use the camera longer.

Industry Review

Digital Trends - Is the EX2F as good as a DSLR? Not quite. The EX2F, at the end of the day, is still a point-and-shoot, but a very good one. The camera produces quality photos, thanks to the large sensor and excellent lens. The AMOLED screen is also marvelous, as is the Wi-Fi. But users stepping up from a lower-end cam may find the lens' short focal range and slow zoom unattractive.

Video Samples

1080p Video CaptureYes
Battery life300 Shot Battery Life; 91 minutes continuous video shooting
Low light conditions6400 iso
Sensor Size1/2.3" (6.17 x 4.55 mm)
Maximum ApertureF3.5 - F5.7
Street Value$249.99
Video Capture1920 x 1080 pixels, 60p
Lightweight7.7 oz
Video StabilizationLens-shift
Angle Adjustable LCD180-degree Flip LCD
Video Quality Index 79

The Olympus TG-850 seems to be a very good basic YouTube camera. It lacks many features in many of the high end models, but for a basic YouTube camera it's a nice start. In addition, I don't have to worry if I drop the camera. The key problem is that for the price, there are better cameras that can take better pictures.

Industry Review

PC Magazine - The Olympus Tough TG-850 omits some bells and whistles, including GPS and Wi-Fi, but makes up for it with a low price, a 21mm wide-angle lens, and a hinged display. Olympus rates it for use in water as deep as 33 feet, and the Super Macro mode is a great tool for capturing images of the small things in the world that surrounds us. It's a solid entry-level tough camera, but you can get a bit more functionality for a bit more money. Our Editors' Choice Olympus TG-2 has been supplanted by the newer TG-3 model, which we've yet to review.

Video Samples

1080p Video CaptureYes
Battery life290 Shot Battery Life; 90 minutes continuous video shooting
Low light conditions12800 iso
Sensor Size1/1.7"
Maximum ApertureF1.8 - F2.5
Street Value$249.99
Video Capture1920 x 1080 pixels, 60p
Lightweight12.8 oz
Video StabilizationMovie Shake Reduction Mode
Angle Adjustable LCD3.0" Tiltable color TFT with AR Coating (Tilt down to 45-degree, up to 90-degree (approx.))
Video Quality Index 68

Industry Review

DPReview - The Pentax MX-1 is a 12MP high-end compact camera with a fast 28-112mm equivalent zoom lens - the first camera of its type that Pentax has created. With a rich history in camera design, it seems fair that Pentax would seek to recapture the two-tone camera designs of the last century with its MX-1 enthusiast compact (the MX-1 is also available in an all-black model as well). A metal top and bottom and a leather-like band around the middle provide a gripable surface as well as a classic look. Thanks to the painted brass top and bottom plates, we're told users will enjoy that old tendency toward 'brassing' exhibited in well-used vintage cameras as the MX-1 accumulates wear.

Video Samples

1080p Video CaptureYes
Battery life330 pictures
Low light conditions ISO 80-12800
Sensor Size1/2.33"
Maximum ApertureF3.3 - F6.4
Street Value$239
Video Capture1920 x 1080: 50 fps
Lightweight6.9 ounces
Video StabilizationPower O.I.S.
Angle Adjustable LCDNo
Burst ModeYes
Age18 months

On January 7,2013, Panasonic announced a really cool camera with lots of features, and it comes with a 4GB Eye-Fi card. This camera model has been updated this year with the announcement of Panasonic DMC-ZS35K, however the reviews on Amazon.com hasn't been all that great. The DMC-ZS2 has the LEICA lens where the DMC-ZS35K does not. Some reviews suggest to look at the Panasonic Lumix ZS20 14.1 MP High Sensitivity MOS Digital Camera with 20x Optical Zoom.

Panasonic Marketing
The newly developed LEICA DC VARIO-SUMMILUX lens features F1.4-2.3 outstanding brightness at 24-90mm versatile zoom range (35mm camera equivalent). This stunningly bright lens is the extraordinarily rich amount of light can give impressive expression to the image by reproducing exquisite gradation.

Also, the Panasonic's black box technology Nano Surface Coating boasts extremely low reflectance ratio and it is applied to the DMC-LX7 for exceptional optical performance with stunning clarity by minimizing flaring and ghosts.

Camera Labs Review
Camera Labs review says "The Panasonic Lumix TZ35, or ZS25 as it's known in North America, is the company's latest affordable travel-zoom. As with previous generations, Panasonic offers two travel-zoom cameras each year, one packed with all the latest features and the other stripped-down to the essentials for those who don't need the bells or whistles. For 2013, the flagship model is the TZ40 / ZS30, and the more affordable version is the TZ35 / ZS25. Both were announced in January 2013, exactly one year after their predecessors."

The TZ35 / ZS25 lacks the Wifi, GPS and touchscreen of the TZ40 / ZS30, along with its faster continuous shooting, 1080p and slow motion movie modes, but of course comes in at a lower price point. With previous generations the lower resolution has also sometimes delivered superior results to the flagship model. So in my in-depth review, I've closely compared the features and the image quality of the TZ35 / ZS25 against its pricier counterpart, along with that of its major rival, the Canon PowerShot SX280 HS to help you choose the best pocket super-zoom camera!

Video Samples

  • buytv Overview - An overview of some of the features of the camera
  • GadgetJM - Review the camera at the CES 2013 show floor
  • TZ35- Demo the camera functionalities

1080p Video CaptureYes
Battery life330 Shot Battery Life
Low light conditions6400 iso
Sensor Size1"-type Exmor R BSI-CMOS sensor
Maximum ApertureF1.8 - F2.8
Street Value$748
Video Capture1920 x 1080 pixels, 60i
Lightweight1.6 pounds
Video StabilizationOptical SteadyShot
Angle Adjustable LCDFlip out screen
Burst Mode

The biggest disadvantage of the RX100 camera is the cost. Otherwise it pretty much wins in almost all the requirements that I am looking for in a camera. Next month is the two year anniversary of the release of the RX100, perhaps they will reduce the price then? In the meantime, I put a alert tracker in Amazon, Deal News, and Google News. The website snapsort.com has a list of competitors that might be a good option to pick from since Sony hasn't changed the price. Seems the that Panasonic Lumix LX7 is the closest in my $300 price range. I have DSC-HX200V and was wondering if there was a fair comparison between the two camera. Sony RX100 wins hands down! (Model DSCRX100/B)

Industry Review
The Sony Cyber-shot RX100 is a pocket-sized compact with a large 20.2 Megapixel sensor, a 3.6x Carl Zeiss optical zoom, and a 3 inch LCD screen with 1.2 million pixel resolution. It has a bright f1.8 maximum aperture (when zoomed-out), 10fps burst shooting, RAW recording and 1080p HD video. As well as fully manual control it also has intelligent Auto for point-and-shoot operation and includes a multitude of of stacking modes in addition to Sony's famous Sweep panorama. - Camera Labs

Sony Marketing Snip
Create 1080/60p HD movies of amazing clarity that play extra smoothly by recording them at the extremely high rate of 60 fps in AVCHD. You can even record fast-moving subjects and dark settings with astonishing clarity thanks to the large image sensor and high-performance lens. Sony Product Page

Video Samples

1080p Video CaptureYes
Battery lifeBattery Pack NB-5L, Compact Power Adapter CA-DC10
Low light conditionsIn low light the video looks noisy
Sensor Size1/1.7"
Maximum ApertureF2.0 - F5.9
Street Value$249
Video Capture1920 x 1080: 24 fps (23.976)
Lightweight1.1 pounds
Video StabilizationSix Different Modes
Angle Adjustable LCD
Burst ModeYes

This is the official camera that Its Judy Life uses for their daily video blog. This appears to be a pretty popular camera since it came out on September 17, 2012, currently ranks #15 in the point and shoot digital camera on Amazon.com. Not bad for a two year old camera!

Canon Marketing Snip
The PowerShot S110 packs a world of advancements into its sleek, pocket-sized body. While the camera makes it easy enough for any user to achieve beautiful image quality, it gives serious photographers the tools they need to take their creative expression to the highest level, including a 12.1 Megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor and DIGIC 5 Image Processor that create the exclusive Canon HS SYSTEM, and 12-bit multi aspect RAW+JPEG. The 24mm Wide-Angle, bright f/2.0 lens with 5x Optical Zoom and ISO speeds all the way up to 12800 deliver breathtaking images, even in low light. At the same time, this is an incredibly convenient camera, with new High Speed AF for sharply rveduced lag time, a new capacitive touch panel LCD, and built-in Wi-Fi that lets you share images and video online, exchange images with another Wi-Fi PowerShot camera, print from a Wi-Fi enabled printer, and wirelessly tag your images with GPS# information recorded by a smartphone with the free Canon CameraWindow app*. Experience the take-anywhere, do-anything PowerShot S110. [Canon Product Page] and [Wikipage] there also a great review on gizmodo.com

Video Samples

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX220>
1080p Video CaptureAVCHD (up to 1,920 x 1,080/50p at 28Mbps) / MP4 (up to 1,440 x 1,080/25fps at 12Mbps) / VGA (up to 640 x 480/25fps at 12Mbps)
Battery life
Low light conditions12,800 ISO
Sensor Size1/2.3" (6.17 x 4.55 mm)
Maximum ApertureF3.3 - F5.9
Street Value$198
Lightweight1 pounds
Video StabilizationOptical SteadyShot
Angle Adjustable LCD
Burst Mode

Shipped on August 28, 2014, this is Sony latest point and Shoot camera.

For notable low-light performance, the black Cyber-shot DSC-WX220 Digital Camera from Sony is a compact zoom point-and-shoot that features an 18.2MP Exmor R CMOS sensor with a BIONZ X image processor. For considerable wide-angle to telephoto image capturing capabilities, the 4.45-44.5mm f/3.3-5.9 lens has a 35mm equivalent of 25-250mm and features a powerful 10x optical zoom with a 20x Clear Image Zoom. To view your images and high-resolution full HD 1080/60p AVCHD videos, there is a 2.7" Clear Photo LCD 460k-dot monitor on the back of the camera.

sx700a
1080p Video CaptureYes
Battery life
Low light conditions12,800 ISO
Sensor Size1/2.3"
Maximum ApertureF3.2 - F6.9
Street Value$349
Video Capture1920 x 1280 @ 60fps
Lightweight1.6 pounds
Video StabilizationOptical SteadyShot
Angle Adjustable LCDNo

Announced on February 12, 2014, this appears to be a great camera, but in many of the online reviews and side-by-side compairison the Canon PowerShot S120 beats this camera over many features and functionality. Even thou this camera came out six months after PowerShot SX700, it appears not to be a good option due to poor image quality.

Marketing Material
Whether you're capturing family activities, seeing the sights on vacation, or pursuing your favorite hobbies, you'll want the amazing zooming power of PowerShot SX700 HS at your side. With the camera's powerful 30x Optical Zoom, you can get right down onto the field to preserve a big play, reach deep into the forest for spectacular wildlife close-ups, and capture majestic architecture just the way you see it. What's more, the camera's advanced technology ensures truly impressive quality in every shot, even at the long end of the zoom. The Canon HS SYSTEM - a 16.1 Megapixel High-Sensitivity CMOS sensor and DIGIC 6 Image Processor - provides excellent detail and color in low light. Smart AUTO makes high-quality imaging easy in any situation, and Intelligent IS keeps shots clear and steady. Best of all, built-in Wi-Fi lets you transfer images and video* directly to select social networking sites, mobile devices** and your computer, so you can share from almost anywhere. And simply touch the camerva to a compatible Android" device*** using built-in NFC (Near Field Communication) for easy wireless connectivity. [Canon Product Page]

1080p Video CaptureYes
Battery life
Low light conditionsISO 80 Sensitivity Range.
Sensor Size1/2.3"
Maximum ApertureF3.3 - F6.4
Street Value$444
Video Capture1920 x 1080 pixels, 60p
Lightweight1 pounds
Video StabilizationOptical SteadyShot
Angle Adjustable LCD

Announced on February 7, 2014, this looks to be a prety cool camera. However, this is on the high end of the price range.

Marketing Material
In addition to a remarkable 30x* optical zoom lens, the Panasonic LUMIX ZS40 features powerful manual functions to boost your creativity. Enjoy a LVF (Live View Finder), a Control Ring, RAW compatibility, and Focus Peaking all in an ultra-compact body. You'll have the power to shoot everything from ordinary snapshots to breathtaking travel photography and beyond.

Nikon COOLPIX L830
1080p Video CaptureYes
Battery life
Low light conditions3,200 ISO
Sensor Size1/2.3" (6.17 x 4.55 mm)
Maximum ApertureF3.0 - F5.9
Street Value$196
Video Capture1920 x 1080p / 30fps
Lightweight2 pounds
Video StabilizationYes
Angle Adjustable LCD
Burst ModeNo

Some of my professional photo friends are big fans of the Nikon CoolPix camera series and I have seen them take phenomenial pictures. One of my concerns with this particular camera is that the camera body looks like an SLR and could be a little bulky to carry around. The Nikon COOLPIX L830 started shipping on April 30, 2014 and takes excellent pictures.

Marketing Material
Introducing the most connected COOLPIX yet, S800c with the superior imaging power of a Nikon point-and-shoot camera and all the capabilities of an Android" smart device. Create beautiful photos and Full HD videos, then instantly share them right from your camera-email them to friends, post them on Facebook, upload them to my Picturetown or wirelessly transfer them to your laptop, smartphone or tablet. You can even install popular Android photography and social networking apps, available on Google Play""! It's an all-in-one smart device that will change the way you create and share memories.

THe Nikon COOLPIX L830 is poor in low light conditions, so this probably not going to end up in the top 10. Nikon Product Page