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The best cameras for beginners are the relatively inexpensive point and shoot models. These are easy to handle and operate, convenient to carry outdoors and most give pretty decent pics. This best cameras for beginners list includes some of the lighter and cheaper options.

The best digital cameras for beginners are relatively easy to handle and operate, are compact enough to carry around in your pocket and produce pretty decent pics. The entry level point and shoot cameras make a great choice since you can literally flip them out and start clicking.

If you are a beginner buying your first digital camera then you need to evaluate what kind of photography you will be getting into. If you plan on taking the camera on vacations and for family outings then a good point and shoot would do. Many models come with advanced features such as in-built image stabilization and face detection, which is a very useful feature when you need to capture pictures with kids or pets etc.

If you want to make photography your hobby and plan on taking out your camera every weekend, then a more accomplished mega zoom or high end compact would suit you better. The mega zoom models have excellent optical zoom and in-built image stabilization and are cheaper than the entry-level dSLRs and more lightweight too.

The best digital cameras for beginners for 2016 are equipped with excellent autofocus and Easy Auto modes, where all you have to do is to frame your shot and the camera does the rest of the work for you.

Browse All Top Digital Cameras For Beginners of 2016 »

Fuji XQ2

Fujifilm XQ2


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Fujifilm XQ2
Canon PowerShot SX610 HS
Nikon Coolpix S7000
Fujifilm FinePix XP80
Canon IXUS 160
Fujifilm XQ2
Canon PowerShot SX610 HS
Nikon Coolpix S7000
Fujifilm FinePix XP80
Canon IXUS 160
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Release Date
Mar 2015
Apr 2015
Apr 2015
Mar 2015
Mar 2015
Weight
0.45 lb.
0.42 lb.
0.36 lb.
0.39 lb.
0.28 lb.
Camera Type
Ultracompact
Compact
Ultracompact
Compact
Ultracompact
Optical Zoom
4.0 x
18.0 x
20.0 x
5.0 x
8.0 x
Resolution
12.0 Megapixel
20.0 Megapixel
16.0 Megapixel
16.0 Megapixel
20.0 Megapixel
Image Sensor Type
CMOS
BSI-CMOS
CMOS
CMOS
CCD
LCD Screen Size
3.0 in.
3.0 in.
3.0 in.
2.7 in.
2.7 in.
Image Sensor Size
3.6 mm
2.5 mm
2.5 mm
2.5 mm
2.5 mm

The Fujifilm XQ2 is a solid entry in the field of premium compacts.

If you're in the market for a compact superzoom and you're on a budget, the SX600 HS is our recommendation.

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If you’re looking for a new holiday or family camera it’s definitely worthy of your attention.


Fujifilm XP80 packs durability into small, affordable package

  • Rating Unavailable

Good choice for beginners on a budget

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