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Top 5 Compact Cameras for Travel Photography in 2025
When wanderlust calls, having a compact camera that doesn’t compromise on image quality is essential. In 2025, the best compact cameras for travel offer a fantastic blend of portability, advanced features, and stunning image capabilities, making them ideal companions for capturing your adventures without the bulk of a larger DSLR or mirrorless system. From premium point-and-shoots with large sensors to stylish fixed-lens cameras, we’ve rounded up the top contenders that will fit perfectly into your travel bag.
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THE QUICK LIST
Here’s a brief overview of our top compact camera picks for travel in 2025. For detailed reviews and the latest deals, scroll down.
Best Premium Compact Overall
1. Sony RX100 VII
Pocket powerhouse with pro-level features.
VIEW DEAL Read more below
Best for Street Photography & Style
2. Fujifilm X100VI
Iconic design meets stunning image quality.
VIEW DEAL Read more below
Best Value 1-inch Sensor Compact
3. Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II
Versatile zoom and pop-up EVF in a pocketable size.
VIEW DEAL Read more below
Best for Discreet Street Shooting
4. Ricoh GR IIIx
Pocketable APS-C power with a sharp 40mm equivalent lens.
VIEW DEAL Read more below
Best Micro Four Thirds Compact
5. Panasonic Lumix LX100 II
Large sensor quality with classic controls.
VIEW DEAL Read more belowHow to Choose the Best Compact Camera for Travel
Selecting the ideal compact camera for your travels in 2025 involves considering what aspects of photography are most important to you on the go. Here’s a guide to help you choose:
1. Size and Portability (Pocketability)
This is paramount for a travel camera. How easily does it fit in a pocket, small bag, or daypack? Consider the overall dimensions and weight, including the lens (if it’s a fixed-lens compact, the lens retraction matters).
2. Sensor Size vs. Zoom Range
Compact cameras offer different sensor sizes (1-inch, APS-C, Micro Four Thirds).
- Larger sensors (APS-C, MFT) generally offer better image quality, especially in low light, and more potential for background blur. However, they often mean a larger camera body or a fixed prime lens (like the Ricoh GR IIIx or Fujifilm X100VI).
- 1-inch sensors (like in the Sony RX100 series or Canon G5 X II) offer a great compromise, providing good image quality in a very compact body, often paired with a versatile zoom lens.
3. Lens: Prime or Zoom?
- Zoom lenses (e.g., Sony RX100 VII, Canon G5 X II) offer versatility, allowing you to capture wide landscapes and zoom in on distant subjects without changing lenses. This is very convenient for travel.
- Prime lenses (e.g., Fujifilm X100VI, Ricoh GR IIIx) have a fixed focal length. They are often sharper and have wider maximum apertures (better for low light and bokeh) but lack zoom flexibility. They encourage a more deliberate style of photography.
4. Image Quality and Low-Light Performance
Beyond sensor size, look at reviews for real-world image quality, color reproduction, and how well the camera handles high ISO settings for low-light situations. A wider maximum aperture (lower f-number) on the lens also helps in low light.
5. Autofocus and Speed
Fast and reliable autofocus is crucial for capturing fleeting travel moments. Consider continuous shooting speed (fps) if you plan to photograph moving subjects.
6. Viewfinder and LCD Screen
- Electronic Viewfinder (EVF): Very helpful for composing shots in bright sunlight when the LCD can be hard to see. Not all compacts have one (e.g., Ricoh GR IIIx).
- LCD Screen: Is it a tilting screen for high/low angles, or a fully articulating screen for selfies and vlogging? Is it a touchscreen for easy focus point selection and menu navigation?
7. Video Capabilities
If video is important for your travels, check for 4K resolution, frame rate options, microphone input, and image stabilization (optical, digital, or in-body if available, though rare in true compacts).
8. Battery Life and Charging
Travel often means being away from power sources. Check the CIPA rating for battery life (number of shots per charge) and whether the camera supports USB charging, which is very convenient for topping up with a power bank.
9. Durability and Weather Sealing
While most budget compacts won’t be fully weather-sealed, some offer a degree of dust and moisture resistance, which can be beneficial for travel. Consider the overall build quality.
By thinking about these factors in relation to your travel style and photographic priorities, you can find a compact camera that will be a joy to use and capture your memories beautifully.
Our Top 5 Compact Cameras for Travel Photography in 2025
THE BEST PREMIUM COMPACT OVERALL
1. Sony RX100 VII Premium Compact Camera ★★★★★
A pocket-sized powerhouse blending a versatile zoom with pro-level autofocus and speed.
Specifications
- Sensor: 20.1MP 1-inch Exmor RS CMOS
- Lens: 24-200mm (35mm equiv.) f/2.8-4.5 Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T*
- Autofocus: Fast Hybrid AF (357 phase-detection points), Real-time Tracking & Eye AF
- Continuous Shooting: Up to 20 fps (blackout-free)
- Video: 4K UHD up to 30p, Full HD up to 120p, S-Log2/3, HLG
- Viewfinder: Pop-up EVF (2.36M dots)
- LCD: 3.0-inch Tilting touchscreen (180° up, 90° down)
- Key Features: Microphone input, Advanced image stabilization, Single Burst Shooting up to 90fps
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
VIEW DEALReasons to Buy
- Exceptional autofocus performance
- Versatile 24-200mm zoom range
- Excellent image and 4K video quality
- Pocketable size with a pop-up EVF
- Fast continuous shooting capabilities
Reasons to Avoid
- Very expensive for a compact camera
- Small buttons and sometimes fiddly ergonomics
- Menu system can be dense
- Battery life is just okay
What you need to know
The Sony RX100 VII continues to be the king of premium compact cameras, packing an incredible amount of technology into a genuinely pocketable body. It’s aimed at enthusiasts and professionals who want a high-quality, versatile camera that can go anywhere without compromising on speed or autofocus capabilities. It’s an ideal travel companion for those who want more than a smartphone can offer.
Image Quality & Performance
The 1-inch 20.1MP sensor, paired with the high-quality Zeiss 24-200mm equivalent lens, delivers excellent image quality with sharp details and good dynamic range. The real standout is its autofocus system, inherited from Sony’s Alpha mirrorless cameras, offering incredibly fast and reliable Real-time Tracking and Eye AF for both humans and animals. It can shoot blackout-free at up to 20fps and offers robust 4K video features, including S-Log profiles for color grading and a microphone input.
Design & Features
The RX100 VII maintains the classic sleek, minimalist design of the series. It features a clever pop-up electronic viewfinder, which is invaluable in bright light, and a tilting touchscreen that can flip up 180 degrees for selfies or vlogging. Despite its small size, it feels well-built. The versatile zoom lens covers a wide range of shooting scenarios, perfect for travel.
Value
This camera is a significant investment for a compact. However, its value lies in its unparalleled combination of pocketability, zoom range, autofocus speed, and image quality. For travelers who want a single camera that can do almost everything well without the bulk of an interchangeable lens system, the RX100 VII remains a top, albeit premium, choice in 2025.
BUY IT IF…
- You want the best possible image quality and AF in a truly pocketable camera.
- A versatile zoom lens (24-200mm) is essential for your travel photography.
- You need fast performance and advanced video features in a compact form.
DON’T BUY IT IF…
- You’re on a tight budget (it’s very pricey).
- You prefer the ergonomics and handling of a larger camera.
- You need a wider maximum aperture than f/2.8-4.5.
BEST FOR STREET PHOTOGRAPHY & STYLE
2. Fujifilm X100VI ★★★★★
The highly sought-after compact with a fixed lens, beautiful design, and in-body stabilization.
Specifications
- Sensor: 40.2MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS 5 HR
- Lens: Fixed 23mm f/2 lens (35mm equivalent)
- Autofocus: Intelligent Hybrid AF with subject detection
- Continuous Shooting: Up to 11 fps (mechanical), 20 fps (electronic crop)
- Video: 6.2K/30p, 4K/60p, 10-bit 4:2:2
- Viewfinder: Advanced Hybrid Viewfinder (Optical + Electronic)
- LCD: Tilting touchscreen LCD
- Key Features: In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS), Classic retro design with physical dials, Film Simulation modes, Weather-resistance (with optional adapter ring and filter)
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
VIEW DEALReasons to Buy
- Stunning image quality from the 40MP sensor
- Beautiful retro design and tactile controls
- Excellent Film Simulation modes for JPEGs
- Addition of In-Body Image Stabilization is a game-changer
- Unique and versatile hybrid viewfinder
Reasons to Avoid
- Fixed lens isn’t for everyone (no zoom)
- High demand often leads to availability issues and premium pricing
- Battery life is decent but not outstanding
- Autofocus, while improved, may not be as fast as some competitors for action
What you need to know
The Fujifilm X100VI is the latest iteration of the cult-classic X100 series, beloved by street photographers and enthusiasts for its beautiful retro design, fixed prime lens, and exceptional image quality. The X100VI brings significant upgrades, most notably a higher-resolution 40.2MP sensor and, crucially, in-body image stabilization (IBIS), making it even more versatile.
Image Quality & Performance
With the new 40.2MP X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor and X-Processor 5, the X100VI delivers stunningly detailed images with Fujifilm’s renowned color science. The Film Simulation modes are a joy to use, producing beautiful JPEGs that often require little to no editing. The fixed 23mm f/2 lens (35mm equivalent) is sharp and excellent for everyday and street photography. The addition of IBIS is a major improvement, allowing for sharper handheld shots at slower shutter speeds. Video capabilities have also been enhanced, with support for 6.2K recording.
Design & Features
The X100VI retains the iconic retro design with tactile dials for shutter speed, ISO, and exposure compensation, offering an engaging shooting experience. The Advanced Hybrid Viewfinder, which can switch between optical and electronic views, is a unique and highly valued feature. The tilting touchscreen offers flexibility, though it’s not fully articulating. Weather resistance can be achieved with an optional adapter ring and filter.
Value
The Fujifilm X100VI is a premium compact camera with a price tag to match, and its high demand often makes it difficult to find at list price. Its value lies in its unique combination of style, image quality, fixed-lens simplicity (which many find creatively liberating), and now IBIS. It’s a camera that inspires you to shoot and is a joy to carry, making it an excellent, albeit expensive, travel companion for discerning photographers.
BUY IT IF…
- You love the retro aesthetic and tactile controls.
- You appreciate Fujifilm’s Film Simulations and image quality.
- A fixed prime lens (35mm equivalent) suits your shooting style, especially for street or travel.
- In-body image stabilization in a compact form is appealing.
DON’T BUY IT IF…
- You need the versatility of a zoom lens.
- You’re on a strict budget or unwilling to pay a premium for its unique appeal.
- You require a fully articulating screen for vlogging.
BEST VALUE 1-INCH SENSOR COMPACT
3. Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II ★★★★☆
A versatile and pocketable compact with a bright zoom lens and pop-up EVF.
Specifications
- Sensor: 20.1MP 1-inch Stacked CMOS
- Lens: 24-120mm (35mm equiv.) f/1.8-2.8
- Autofocus: Contrast-detect AF
- Continuous Shooting: Up to 20 fps (RAW burst mode up to 30 fps)
- Video: 4K UHD up to 30p, Full HD up to 120p
- Viewfinder: Pop-up EVF (2.36M dots)
- LCD: 3.0-inch Tilting touchscreen (180° up)
- Key Features: Bright f/1.8-2.8 lens, Built-in ND filter, USB-C charging, Compact design
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
VIEW DEALReasons to Buy
- Bright f/1.8-2.8 lens is great for low light and bokeh
- Versatile 5x optical zoom range
- Pop-up EVF is a handy feature
- Good image quality from the 1-inch sensor
- Compact and pocket-friendly design
Reasons to Avoid
- Autofocus is contrast-detect only, not as advanced as some rivals
- No microphone input for serious video work
- Handling can be a bit cramped for larger hands
- 4K video can have a slight crop
What you need to know
The Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II is a well-rounded premium compact camera that offers a bright zoom lens, a pop-up electronic viewfinder, and good image quality from its 1-inch sensor. It’s designed for enthusiasts who want a step up from their smartphone in a pocketable package, offering more creative control and better optics for travel and everyday photography.
Image Quality & Performance
The 20.1MP 1-inch stacked CMOS sensor, combined with the bright 24-120mm equivalent f/1.8-2.8 lens, delivers sharp and vibrant images, especially in good light. The wide maximum aperture is beneficial for low-light shooting and creating a pleasing background blur. While its contrast-detect autofocus isn’t as sophisticated as phase-detect systems found in some competitors (like the Sony RX100 series), it’s generally adequate for most travel and everyday shooting scenarios. It can shoot 4K video and offers high-speed Full HD for slow motion.
Design & Features
The G5 X Mark II is impressively compact and features a useful pop-up EVF that retracts neatly into the body. The 3.0-inch touchscreen tilts up 180 degrees, making it suitable for selfies and vlogging. It includes a built-in ND filter, which is very handy for shooting with wide apertures in bright light or for long exposure photography. USB-C charging adds to its travel convenience.
Value
As a slightly older model in 2025, the PowerShot G5 X Mark II often represents excellent value in the premium compact market. It provides a compelling feature set, including a bright versatile zoom and an EVF, at a price that’s typically more competitive than the latest Sony RX100 models. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a capable pocket camera without the absolute top-tier price tag.
BUY IT IF…
- You want a bright, versatile zoom lens in a compact camera.
- A pop-up electronic viewfinder is important to you.
- You’re looking for a good balance of features and portability for travel.
DON’T BUY IT IF…
- You need the fastest and most reliable autofocus for action.
- A microphone input is essential for your video work.
- You prioritize the absolute latest sensor and processing technology.
BEST FOR DISCREET STREET SHOOTING
4. Ricoh GR IIIx ★★★★☆
A cult classic street photography camera with an APS-C sensor and a sharp 40mm equivalent prime lens.
Specifications
- Sensor: 24.2MP APS-C CMOS
- Lens: Fixed 26.1mm f/2.8 lens (40mm equivalent)
- Autofocus: Hybrid AF system
- Stabilization: 3-axis In-Body Image Stabilization (SR)
- Video: Full HD up to 60p
- Viewfinder: None (Optional optical viewfinder available)
- LCD: 3.0-inch Fixed touchscreen LCD
- Key Features: Ultra-compact and pocketable, Snap Focus mode, In-body stabilization, Minimalist design, Excellent image quality
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
VIEW DEALReasons to Buy
- Exceptional image quality from APS-C sensor and sharp prime lens
- Incredibly compact and discreet for street photography
- In-body image stabilization is a huge plus
- Fast startup and responsive operation
- Unique Snap Focus feature for quick shooting
Reasons to Avoid
- Fixed lens (40mm equivalent) isn’t for everyone
- No built-in viewfinder
- Battery life is quite limited
- Video features are basic (Full HD only)
- Fixed LCD screen
What you need to know
The Ricoh GR IIIx is a specialized compact camera beloved by street photographers and those who appreciate a minimalist, high-quality shooting experience. It features a large APS-C sensor and a fixed, sharp 26.1mm f/2.8 lens (providing a 40mm full-frame equivalent field of view), all packed into an incredibly pocketable body. The ‘x’ variant offers a slightly tighter field of view than the standard GR III (28mm equiv.).
Image Quality & Performance
Image quality is where the GR IIIx truly excels. The combination of the APS-C sensor and the excellent prime lens delivers incredibly sharp, detailed images with great color and dynamic range, rivaling much larger cameras. The in-body image stabilization (SR – Shake Reduction) is a significant advantage for a camera this small, helping to achieve sharp shots in lower light. Autofocus is generally good for its intended use, and the unique Snap Focus feature allows for pre-setting focus distances for instant capture.
Design & Features
The GR IIIx is all about stealth and portability. It’s designed to be unobtrusive and quick to operate. It has a minimalist design with essential controls easily accessible. There’s no built-in viewfinder (an optional optical one can be purchased), and the rear LCD is fixed but offers touchscreen functionality. Its startup time is very fast, meaning you’re less likely to miss a moment.
Value
The Ricoh GR IIIx is a niche camera with a dedicated following. Its value isn’t in an extensive feature list or zoom versatility, but in its exceptional image quality from a truly pocket-sized APS-C camera with a superb prime lens and IBIS. For street photographers or travelers who love the 40mm focal length and prioritize image quality and discretion above all else, it’s a unique and highly rewarding tool, though it comes at a premium price for a fixed-lens compact.
BUY IT IF…
- You are a street photographer or value ultimate discretion.
- APS-C image quality in a truly pocketable form is your goal.
- You appreciate a sharp, fixed 40mm equivalent prime lens.
- In-body image stabilization in such a small camera is appealing.
DON’T BUY IT IF…
- You need the flexibility of a zoom lens.
- A built-in viewfinder or articulating screen is essential.
- Long battery life or advanced video features are priorities.
BEST MICRO FOUR THIRDS COMPACT
5. Panasonic Lumix LX100 II ★★★★☆
A premium compact with a large Micro Four Thirds sensor and classic analog controls.
Specifications
- Sensor: 17MP Multi-Aspect Micro Four Thirds MOS
- Lens: 24-75mm (35mm equiv.) f/1.7-2.8 Leica DC Vario-Summilux
- Autofocus: Contrast AF with DFD technology
- Continuous Shooting: Up to 11 fps (AFS)
- Video: 4K UHD up to 30p, Full HD up to 60p
- Viewfinder: EVF (2.76M dots)
- LCD: 3.0-inch Fixed touchscreen LCD
- Key Features: Large MFT sensor in a compact body, Bright Leica lens, Physical aperture ring and shutter speed dial, 4K Photo modes
TODAY’S BEST DEALS
VIEW DEALReasons to Buy
- Excellent image quality from the Micro Four Thirds sensor
- Very bright f/1.7-2.8 Leica lens
- Tactile analog controls (aperture, shutter speed, exposure comp.)
- Good quality electronic viewfinder
- Compact for a large-sensor camera
Reasons to Avoid
- Fixed LCD screen (no tilt or articulation)
- Autofocus, while capable, isn’t as advanced as some competitors
- Zoom range is somewhat limited compared to 1-inch sensor rivals
- Battery life is average
What you need to know
The Panasonic Lumix LX100 II is a unique premium compact camera that manages to fit a relatively large Micro Four Thirds sensor into a fairly small body, paired with a fast Leica DC Vario-Summilux lens. It appeals to enthusiast photographers who appreciate direct access to physical controls for aperture, shutter speed, and exposure compensation, offering a more traditional shooting experience.
Image Quality & Performance
The 17MP multi-aspect Micro Four Thirds sensor, combined with the bright f/1.7-2.8 Leica lens, delivers excellent image quality with good detail, pleasing colors, and impressive low-light performance for a compact camera. The wide maximum aperture allows for attractive background blur and shooting in dimmer conditions. While its contrast-detect autofocus with DFD technology is quick for many situations, it may not be as consistently reliable for fast-moving subjects as phase-detect systems. It offers 4K video recording and Panasonic’s 4K Photo modes for capturing fleeting moments.
Design & Features
The LX100 II features a classic, retro-inspired design with prominent physical dials for key exposure settings, which many photographers love for their tactile feel and direct control. It includes a good quality electronic viewfinder. The rear LCD is a touchscreen but is fixed, which is a drawback for vlogging or creative angles. Its build quality is solid, and it feels like a premium device.
Value
As a more niche offering in 2025, the LX100 II provides value for photographers who specifically seek a compact camera with a larger-than-average sensor (for a compact) and a strong emphasis on manual, analog-style controls. The high-quality Leica-branded lens is a significant part of its appeal. It’s a great choice for travel and street photography for those who enjoy a more deliberate and engaging shooting process.
BUY IT IF…
- You prioritize image quality from a larger sensor in a compact form.
- You love tactile, physical dials for exposure control.
- A bright, high-quality zoom lens is important.
DON’T BUY IT IF…
- You need a tilting or fully articulating LCD screen.
- The most advanced autofocus system is critical for your work.
- You require extensive video features or a microphone input.
Exploring other camera types? Check out our Sony Alpha Series Review for more options.
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