The 7 Best Wi-Fi Cameras of 2021

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There’s nothing more fun than a day of photography, capturing gorgeous shots with your favorite camera. However, what’s less exciting is the tedious process of uploading all of your shots onto your computer afterward. If you’re looking for a faster way to transfer your photos, the best Wi-Fi cameras allow you to use Wi-Fi, and, in some cases, Bluetooth, to quickly send your photos straight from your camera to your smartphone or tablet.

This collection of point-and-shoot cameras maximize technology, making it easy to upload photos to wherever you want them, such as to social media or your phone’s storage. We’ve reviewed the best Wi-Fi-enabled cameras for users, based on factors such as brand, zoom, ease of use, picture quality, and price.

All of the major camera brands offer Wi-Fi cameras, so here are the best from industry leaders including Canon and Nikon. No matter which camera on our list captures your fancy, check out our digital camera and photography guides to make sure you're getting the most out of your new Wi-Fi camera.

The Rundown

Best Overall:

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II at Amazon

Photo sharing is easy with the built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, but you’ll also find plenty of high-end features in this camera.

Best Quality:

Canon PowerShot SX620 HS at Amazon

This is an affordable camera that’s easy to use, compact, and has a powerful 25x optical zoom lens.

Best Design:

Canon PowerShot ELPH 190 at Amazon

We love the form factor of the PowerShot ELPH 190—its sleek, compact design fits comfortably in both your hand and your pocket.

Best Zoom:

Canon PowerShot SX740 HS at Walmart

It features 40x optical zoom, letting you take incredibly detailed photos from just about anywhere.

Best Splurge:

Nikon COOLPIX P1000 at Amazon

We recommend it for anyone looking for a camera with a raft of features, especially for vlogging or filming.

Best Compact:

Panasonic LX10 at Amazon

A rear, 3-inch LCD touchscreen makes it easy to control usage and plan your shot.

Best Budget:

Nikon Coolpix B500 at Walmart

If you’re new to photography, you’ll find the camera's controls simple and intuitive to learn, helping you take great shots in no time.

in this article

Our Picks
About Our Trusted Experts
FAQs
What to Look for in a Wi-Fi Camera

4.2

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What We Like

Experienced photographers will love the manual controls and ability to shoot in RAW
Takes fantastic images in low light
Flip LCD touchscreen helps you get the perfect shot

What We Don't Like

No viewfinder
Lacks 4K video

Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II Review

If you’re looking for a Wi-Fi camera that ticks all the boxes, you can’t go wrong with the Canon Powershot G7 X Mark II. Photo sharing is easy with the built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, but you’ll also find plenty of high-end features in this camera that make it a versatile and effective choice.

With a 20.1 CMOS sensor, plus a 24 to 100mm optical zoom lens, intelligent image stabilization, and in-camera RAW conversion, it shoots incredible photos, particularly in low-light. While it can’t record 4K video, it does shoot in a respectful 1080p HD.

The G7 Mark II is the latest edition of Canon’s G-series of cameras, but they’ve amped up its performance with the addition of a DIGIC 7 processor, giving users both faster processing and shooting, at 8 frames per second (fps). Another great feature of the Mark II is its LCD screen, a useful touchscreen that tilts up to 180 degrees—for this reason, plus the ease of Wi-Fi transfer, we can see this camera appealing to content creators or bloggers. However, anyone looking for a powerful, effective Wi-Fi camera is sure to enjoy shooting with the Canon Powershot G7 X Mark II.

_{Resolution: 20.1MP | Sensor Type: CMOS | Max ISO: 12800 | Optical Zoom: 4.2x | Connectivity: Wi-Fi and NFC}

"When we took this camera out to test, the adjustable LCD display made self-recording easy and efficient." — Jeff Dojillo, Product Tester

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What We Like

Compact and effective camera that's a great step up from your smartphone
In-body stabilitization
25x zoom is impressive

What We Don't Like

Small ISO range
Battery life isn't the longest

Canon PowerShot SX620 HS Review

Looking to upgrade from your smartphone camera, but not quite ready to shoot in manual mode on a DSLR? If so, a crossover point-and-shoot camera like the Canon PowerShot SX620 is a good option. This is an affordable camera that’s easy to use, compact, and has a powerful 25x optical zoom lens, so it’s a top choice if you need to capture all the action from a distance.

Although this camera has been on the market since 2016, it still holds its own, thanks to a 20.2MP high-sensitivity CMOS sensor and the inclusion of Canon’s DIGIC 4+ image processor, which helps you capture beautiful, accurate color and detail, even in low-lighting.

The SX720 is a no-frills, simple camera, but it’s also compact and lightweight, making it the perfect choice for those looking for an effective travel companion. Of course, it’s quick and easy to transfer your photos too, as both Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity are included—this also lets you use your smartphone as a control, setting up remote shooting. However, note that the battery life is around 400 shots per charge, which can go fast—consider bringing along a spare if you’re going to be out shooting all day.

_{Resolution: 20.2MP | Sensor Type: CMOS | Max ISO: 3200 | Optical Zoom: 25x | Connectivity: Wi-Fi}

"The Canon PowerShot SX620 HS can fit in a back pocket, small purse, jacket pocket and even around your neck without the weight affecting you." — Jeff Dojillo, Product Tester

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What We Like

Sleek and stylish camera available in several colors
Affordable
Lightweight and compact

What We Don't Like

Slow continuous shooting speeds
Video is only 720p

Canon PowerShot ELPH 190 Review

There’s no reason that a compact camera can’t also be fun and stylish. We love the form factor of the PowerShot ELPH 190—its sleek, compact design fits comfortably in both your hand and your pocket. Select from red, blue, or black, adding a vibrant pop of color to your day. It’s also an affordable point-and-shoot, giving you a far better zoom than you’d get from your smartphone.

Users will find a sturdy, reliable camera that takes great shots, thanks to a 10x optical zoom, 20.2MP, 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor, optical image stabilization, plus a DIGIC 4+ Image Processor. A 3-inch, 461,000-pixel LCD screen makes it easy to adjust your controls and see exactly what you’re looking at. However, the ISO range is low on this camera, which means it performs best in well-lit situations.

With the inclusion of Wi-Fi, new users should be able to master digital photo transfer with ease. Using the Canon app, you can set it up so that your photos go straight to the location of your choice, such as Facebook, Google Drive, or your email account.

_{Resolution: 12MP | Sensor Type: CMOS | Max ISO: 1600 | Optical Zoom: 10x | Connectivity: Wi-Fi}

"It’s highly portable, and despite its affordability, still feels like a premium product in your hands." — Jonno Hill, Product Tester

3.2

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What We Like

Powerful 40x zoom
Inclusion of 4K video
Slim design that's easy to grip

What We Don't Like

Doesn't have a touchscreen
Isn't the best in low light

Canon PowerShot SX740 HS Review

If you’re traveling, photographing wildlife, or taking snaps of the children’s weekend sports matches, you need a camera that can make even far away images look clear and vibrant. When shopping for a Wi-Fi camera with a great zoom, try out Canon’s PowerShot SX740 HS. It features 40x optical zoom, letting you take incredibly detailed photos from just about anywhere.

The SX740 HS replaced the PowerShot SX730 HS, with a few key updates—this slim, compact camera now also features DIGIC 8 processing, 4K video, a faster 10fps shooting speed, and slightly longer battery life. Many users find the updated interface easier to use as well, with more intuitive controls and lots of creative shooting modes. Photographers will also enjoy a 20.3MP CMOS sensor, time-lapse recording, optical image stabilization, and a Zoom Framing Assist function, helping you nail the perfect shot.

The SX740 HS features both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, making it easy to connect with your other devices. While the camera’s main selling point is its powerful zoom, the SX740 HS is still a fantastic all-rounder, especially for daytime or well-lit shooting. There’s plenty of great features included, but they’re all easy to learn, even for beginners.

_{Resolution: 20.3MP | Sensor Type: CMOS | Max ISO: 3200 | Optical Zoom: 40x | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, NFC}

"It’s surprisingly versatile and can perform well with long-range shooting, group photography, and even macro photography." — Jeff Dojillo, Product Tester

Canon PowerShot SX740 HS — Lifewire / Jeff Dojillo

4.2

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What We Like

Mind-boggling 125x optical zoom
High-quality build
Ability to shoot in RAW

What We Don't Like

For the price, you might be able to snag an entry-level DSLR
Heavy

Nikon COOLPIX P1000 Review

In the market for a high-end camera with Wi-FI and Bluetooth capabilities? The Nikon Coolpix P1000 is a top choice if you’re willing to splurge, as there’s plenty to love about this powerful camera—a crazy 125x optical zoom and the ability to shoot in RAW, to name a few. It’s an improvement on the P900, with an increased zoom, higher resolution video, and the addition of a microphone port for video recording.

The zoom is the real star of the show, even offering special shooting modes to clearly capture the moon or celestial bodies. On the flip side, it also handles macro well, letting you photograph fine, tiny details. Image stabilization is included as well. Or, if you’re planning to shoot video, the P1000 is designed with this in mind, including an HDMI port and a mount for adding video accessories.

As you might expect from a camera with such a powerful lens, the P100 tends to be on the bulkier and heavier side, weighing in at just over three pounds. However, we recommend it for anyone looking for a camera with a raft of features, especially for vlogging or filming.

_{Resolution: 16.7MP | Sensor Type: CMOS | Max ISO: 6400 | Optical Zoom: 125x | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth}

"We found that it was comfortable to use for long periods of time—our fingers never slipped off the textured rubber grip, and the massive lens barrel offered a comfortable second hold for steady shooting." — Andy Zahn, Product Tester

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What We Like

Shoots beautiful 4K video
Autofocus works very well
Compact size and impressive features make it great for travel

What We Don't Like

Battery life can go quickly
No viewfinder

If you’re shopping for a more premium compact camera, with plenty of great features for travel or daily use, the Panasonic Lumix LX10 (LX15 in some international markets), is a top choice. This camera takes up little space compared to your DSLR or mirrorless, which can make it a great camera when you don’t feel like carrying something heavy.

It’s a great step up from one of the cheaper point-and-shoot cameras, offering users a 1-inch 20.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, powered by the Venus Engine processor. For those looking to film or make YouTube videos, the LX10 stands for its ability to record 4K video at a fast 30fps. A rear, 3-inch LCD touchscreen makes it easy to control usage and plan your shot.

With this camera, Panasonic is trying to compete with the popularity of the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II, with its impressive features and ease of use making it a worthy contender. It will also appeal to those who enjoy shooting with Leica lenses, known for their sharpness and beautiful, soft bokeh. It’s a fun, creative tool that offers in-camera raw processing and lots of unique shooting modes, such as stop-motion animation and time-lapse.

_{Resolution: 20.1MP | Sensor Type: CMOS | Max ISO: 12800 | Optical Zoom: 1x | Connectivity: Wi-Fi}

“This compact camera is great for family travel, since it won’t take up much room in your bag, is easy to use, and can even capture 4K video of all your favorite moments.” — Katie Dundas, Tech Writer

2.4

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What We Like

Affordable camera capable of taking decent photos
Includes image stabilization and a tilting LCD screen
Controls are simple to learn and understand

What We Don't Like

Users report occasional focusing issues
You'll want to travel with spare AA batteries

Nikon COOLPIX B500 Review

Accessing high-tech features such as Wi-Fi doesn’t mean that you need to spend a fortune on a camera. The Nikon Coolpix B500 is a budget-friendly camera that makes photo transfer convenient, thanks to the inclusion of not only Wi-Fi, but also Bluetooth and NFC connectivity.

The B500 was designed as the little brother to the (now discontinued) B700, but it still holds its own as an easy-to-use and affordable camera. Photographers can enjoy a 16MP BSI-CMOS sensor, optical image stabilization, and a 23 to 900mm zoom lens. However, as is often the case with budget cameras, avoiding blur can be harder when shooting at full zoom. The inclusion of a tilting LCD screen is great to see at this lower price point too, as it makes it easy to set up remote shots or take selfies.

If you’re new to photography, you’ll find the camera's controls simple and intuitive to learn, helping you take great shots in no time. There’s plenty of creative modes included too, helping you combine images or add special effects. Just note that, unlike most cameras with rechargeable batteries, the B500 runs on AA batteries, which you’ll find either convenient or annoying—make life easier by keeping a few spares in your camera bag.

_{Resolution: 16MP | Sensor Type: CMOS | Max ISO: 6400 | Optical Zoom: 40x | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC}

"If you’re seeking a relatively inexpensive option for travel but prefer the look and feel of a DSLR with the capabilities of a point-and-shoot, you may be satisfied with the COOLPIX B500." — Hayley Prokos, Product Tester

Final Verdict

Photographers of any skill level will enjoy shooting with the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II (view at Amazon). With the ability to shoot in RAW, great functionality in low-light, and effective and fast Wi-Fi photo transfer, it’s a real winner. However, the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS (view at Amazon) is a great camera too, since it’s lightweight, compact, and a bit more affordable than the Mark II.

About Our Trusted Experts

Katie Dundas is a freelance writer and journalist and also a photographer. She frequently covers cameras, photography equipment, and drones.

Jeff Dojillo is a writer and photographer specializing in digital and analog photography. His work has appeared in Suspend Magazine, Architecture Digest, and others.

Jonno Hill is a writer who covers tech such as computers, gaming equipment, and cameras for Lifewire and publications including AskMen.com and PCMag.com.

Andy Zahn is a writer specializing in tech. He's reviewed cameras, weather stations, noise-cancelling headphones, and more for Lifewire.

Hayley Prokos is a tech writer and former Newsweek reporting fellow. Her articles have appeared at SELF.com, Kathimerini English Edition, and others.

FAQs

Are Wi-Fi cameras secure?

Having Wi-Fi on your camera gives you additional connectivity options for sharing and uploading photos, but as with any connected device, there’s a possibility of security risks. Because your camera can connect on unsecured and public Wi-Fi networks, it's important to be vigilant about what you're connecting to and avoid dubious Wi-Fi sources. If you need to upload photos on the go, a mobile Wi-Fi hotspot is a good way to not have to use unsecured public Wi-Fi.

Can Wi-Fi cameras be connected to a computer?

Having Wi-Fi means you don't need to plug in with the cable or SD card to get your photos online, but the option isn't taken away from you. Nearly all Wi-Fi cameras have SD cards that allow you to manually transfer files to your laptop or desktop.

Can you get a mirrorless Wi-Fi camera?

Mirrorless cameras can be found with Wi-Fi connectivity, and you can find several options in our roundup. Mirrorless cameras are often more compact than competing DSLRs, and they're lighter to carry around, so the addition of Wi-Fi makes them a great option for travel photographers.

What to Look for in a Wi-Fi Camera

Zoom

There are two types of zoom you’ll see touted by manufacturers—optical zoom and digital zoom—although they certainly aren’t equal. Optical zoom measures the increase in the lens’s focal length, while digital zoom adjusts the image in the camera itself, essentially cropping the image. Optical zoom is the more meaningful spec, and most high-end cameras will offer at least 40x optical zoom.

Picture Quality

For optimal picture quality, the image sensor is crucial. While it’s the most expensive part of the camera, it’s well worth the investment. In general, the larger the sensor, the pricier the camera. The most common types of sensors on the market today are CMOS and CCD. The former is cheaper to produce but more susceptible to image noise. For premium quality, aim for 16 to 20MP.

Brand

When it comes to cameras, there are many brand loyalists. Photographers usually fall into the Nikon and Canon camps, largely depending on the compatibility of lenses. If you already have a handful of peripherals, buy a camera that’s compatible, but if you’re just starting out, don’t hesitate to consider other brands, too.

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