How does optical zoom compare to digital zoom?

Many non-DSLR cameras are either optical or digital zoom. On an optical zoom camera, users have a physical zoom lens. On digital zoom cameras, in-camera processing is used to take the photo, which can sometimes distort the view or crop away the edges of the photo. While you can get great results from either type of camera, some photographers prefer optical zoom.

Should I shoot in JPEG or RAW?

Some of the cameras above have the ability to shoot in both JPEG or RAW. For many, it depends on what you want to do with your photos. RAW files are much larger because they capture all of the data your camera sees. In comparison, JPEG files compress the image for you automatically, so these files are much smaller. Professionals will generally shoot in RAW, as the format gives them more control in the editing process. It’s also great for high-resolution photos if you want to have your work printed and framed. However, for most casual users, the JPEG quality is more than good enough to get beautiful results.

How much zoom do I need?

It’s often said that you should buy the best camera you can afford, as additional zoom is always going to be useful. However, the answer depends on what you’re planning to photograph. If you’re photographing sports or wildlife from far away, the higher the zoom, the better your resulting images will be. However, for daily use or for vacation snaps, you can get away with far less, since you’ll generally be closer to your subjects.

The 4 Best Optical Zoom Cameras of 2023

Optical zoom cameras are ideal for all sorts of shots, including travel, landscape photography, sporting events, wildlife, or any situation where you'd like to get closer to your subject without sacrificing image quality.

While many cameras have digital zoom, the in-camera post-processing can sometimes interfere with your results, leaving you with underwhelming resolution and low-quality pictures. Optical zoom uses a series of lenses to enlarge the subject in your exposure without digital manipulation.

The Rundown

Best Overall:

Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80 at Amazon

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Runner-Up, Best Overall:

Canon PowerShot SX540 HS at Walmart

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Best Splurge:

Nikon COOLPIX P1000 at Amazon

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Best for Families:

Canon PowerShot SX70 at Amazon

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in this article

Our Picks
What to Look for in an Optical Zoom Camera
FAQ

4.3

Lifewire / Andy Zahn

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What We Like

Impressive 60x long zoom
Built-in image stabilization
Easy-to-use controls and LCD touchscreen

What We Don't Like

Telephoto video can be wobbly without a tripod
No eye sensor for EVF

There's a lot to love about the Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80. This camera offers fantastic value and an impressive 60x (20-1200mm) long zoom, ideal for capturing all the detail in your photos, even from far away, along with a LUMIX DC VARIO lens. It also offers both 4K photos and video, so your resulting images will be of a high standard.

The 18.1MP MOS sensor also performs well in low light, and built-in body stabilization helps you capture crisp, clear photos. However, you'll get the best results for telephoto video if you pair your camera with a tripod.

After shooting, transfer your images to your devices using the camera's built-in Wi-Fi. The FZ80 also includes Panasonic's "Post Focus" technology, which lets you set your focal points in post-production, allowing you to capture a scene without pausing and perfectly composing the picture.

Even if you're new to photography, the camera's controls can be quickly learned. You have a 3-inch LCD touchscreen display to choose your setting and create your shot. The FZ80 is a top choice if you need a camera that can shoot quickly and accurately and capture impressive zoom shots, whether you're on vacation or just in your backyard.

_{Resolution: 18.1MP | Sensor Type: 1/2.3" MOS | Max ISO: 3,200 | Optical Zoom: 60x | Connectivity: NFC, Wi-Fi}

Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ80 Review

Courtesy of Amazon.com

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What We Like

Compact, ergonomic design is great for travel
50x optical zoom
Great value

What We Don't Like

You'll get best results when your subject is well-lit
No touchscreen

Amateur photographers have loved Canon's PowerShot line for years, and the PowerShot SX540 is no exception. This compact camera fits beautifully in your hand and is a great travel companion—with a 50x (24–1200mm) zoom, you'll be able to capture all the detail of wildlife, even from a distance.

Photographers will enjoy the 20.3MP CMOS sensor, Wi-Fi connectivity, and the ability to shoot 1080p Full HD video. While the rear LCD, unfortunately, isn't a touchscreen, the 3-inch LCD is large enough that it's easy to compose your shot and review photos you've already taken.

The SX540 also benefits from Zoom Framing Assist, which allows users to lock onto a subject and track it automatically. It is a helpful feature for photographing animals, sports, or moving quickly. This makes capturing clear shots where your entire subject is in the frame much easier. We like that this camera is affordable as well—while you might not get the specs you'd find in a more premium camera, most users are to be impressed by how many great features this little camera can offer.

_{Resolution: 20.3MP | Sensor Type: 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS Sensor | Max ISO: 3,200 | Optical Zoom: 50x | Connectivity: NFC, Wi-Fi}

4.2

Courtesy of Best Buy

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What We Like

The detail captured by the 125x zoom is amazing
Ability to shoot in RAW
4K Ultra HD video

What We Don't Like

Not weather sealed
Large size might be too bulky for some

If you’re willing to spend a bit more, it would be impossible not to be impressed by the 125x (24-3000mm) zoom on the Nikon COOLPIX P1000. With such a detailed zoom, you can not only shoot striking images of wildlife, flowers, or concerts, but you can also shoot into space.

The P1000 provides so much zoom that you can easily use it for astrophotography, capturing the moon, stars, and even other planets as they pass by. Users also can enjoy a 16MP CMOS sensor, 7FPS burst shooting, and 4K Ultra HD video.

You can shoot in RAW on the P1000, which avid photographers will appreciate. Plus, you can get creative with some of the valuable features in the camera, such as time-lapse, Superlapse, and built-in filters for editing.

When shooting for long periods, the camera’s size is comfortable and easy to grip, although it could be too large for those who prefer something more compact. Thanks to the addition of a control ring, you can adjust the camera’s focus or exposure without needing to look away from the viewfinder. If only the best zoom does, you might want to splurge on the P1000.

_{Resolution: 16.7MP | Sensor Type: 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS Sensor | Max ISO: 6,400 | Optical Zoom: 125x | Connectivity: NFC, Wi-Fi}

Nikon COOLPIX P1000 Review

4.3

Canon

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What We Like

Great build quality
Fast, accurate shooting and processing
65x zoom

What We Don't Like

Photos can easily blur if not used with a tripod
4K video records slightly cropped

Canon PowerShot SX70 HS Review

Families want a reliable, high-quality camera that takes excellent photos but is easy for everyone in the household to use. If your family wants a new zoom camera, check out the Canon Powershot SX70. The 65x optical zoom (21mm-1,365mm) takes gorgeous images, and the Dual Sensing, an image stabilization feature, means you'll capture all the detail just as you intended. We also love the fast autofocus, long battery life, and accurate color—just what you need for the next family vacation.

Users can shoot in JPEG or RAW, which opens up more post-production editing possibilities. You can also upload your shots to your phone or social media since Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity are included in the SX70.

Photographers have access to a 20.3MP High-Sensitivity CMOS, which is excellent for low light and super-fast focus and shooting from the camera's DIGIC 8 Image Processor. Or, shoot video with 4K UHD at up to 30FPS, but be aware that 4K video tends to record slightly cropped. Other than that, it's a great all-rounder your family can use for years.

_{Resolution: 20.3MP | Sensor Type: 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS Sensor | Max ISO: 3,200 | Optical Zoom: 65x | Connectivity: NFC, Wi-Fi}

What to Look for in an Optical Zoom Camera

Brand

Many photographers are loyal to a specific camera brand such as Nikon, Canon, or Sony. The reason is most DSLR lenses are not interchangeable between brands. If you already have a collection of lenses at home, buy a camera that can put them to use.

Sensor size

Most people spring for the camera with the highest resolution, measured in megapixels. A 20-megapixel camera theoretically takes better pictures than a 16-megapixel one, but this isn’t always the most telling spec for performance. Instead, look at the sensor size. A larger sensor will capture more light and produce images with less noise.

Design

If you’re dropping a couple of hundred bucks on a camera, it should feel good in your hands. While the design is more a matter of personal preference, try holding a couple of different models and go with what feels comfortable.

FAQ

How does optical zoom compare to digital zoom?

Many non-DSLR cameras are either optical or digital zoom. On an optical zoom camera, users have a physical zoom lens. On digital zoom cameras, in-camera processing is used to take the photo, which can sometimes distort the view or crop away the edges of the photo. While you can get great results from either type of camera, some photographers prefer optical zoom.
Should I shoot in JPEG or RAW?

Some of the cameras above have the ability to shoot in both JPEG or RAW. For many, it depends on what you want to do with your photos. RAW files are much larger because they capture all of the data your camera sees. In comparison, JPEG files compress the image for you automatically, so these files are much smaller.
Professionals will generally shoot in RAW, as the format gives them more control in the editing process. It’s also great for high-resolution photos if you want to have your work printed and framed. However, for most casual users, the JPEG quality is more than good enough to get beautiful results.
How much zoom do I need?

It’s often said that you should buy the best camera you can afford, as additional zoom is always going to be useful. However, the answer depends on what you’re planning to photograph.
If you’re photographing sports or wildlife from far away, the higher the zoom, the better your resulting images will be. However, for daily use or for vacation snaps, you can get away with far less, since you’ll generally be closer to your subjects.