Best Super Zoom Compact Cameras

For outdoor enthusiasts who like to take photos of wildlife or for photographers who like to capture detail of distant people or objects, a super zoom compact camera is the perfect companion. Each year, this class of cameras is getting bigger and better. The Canon SX50 currently holds the title of longest zoom on a compact camera, but other models are now packing super zoom lenses into ultra-slim bodies, giving you the power of zoom in a camera that fits in your pocket. Whether you want a super zoom bridge camera or a smaller ultra-compact, this page has some of the latest cameras with super zoom lenses.

(Image of Leica V-Lux2 Super Zoom Camera provided by Amazon. See link below.)

Super zoom lenses are great for outdoor shooting

Each of the compact cameras shown below have a super zoom lens with at least 20x optical zoom. Some of these are larger DSLR-styled models, while others are smaller, truly compact cameras. The best one for you will depend on your needs and budget, but here are some highlights to help you decide.

If you need a camera that can shoot action in low light, the Panasonic DMC-FZ200 and the Leica V-Lux2 are the best super zoom compacts for you. Both of these models offer f2.8 brightness and speed across the full zoom range (up to 600mm equivalent). That means you'll be able to use a faster shutter speed with a lower ISO than on the other cameras.

If speed isn't an issue and you simply want the longest zoom range you can get in a compact, the Canon SX50 is the model for you. It currently holds the record for the longest compact zoom, with an incredible 50x (equivalent to 24mm - 1200mm). The Nikon Coolpix P510 is not far behind, with a 42x optical zoom. The P510 also includes GPS.

If you want a compact camera that also offers full-resolution, high-speed continuous shooting, the Fujifilm's FinePix HS20EXR is one to take note of, as it can capture 8 fps at full 16 MP resolution or 11 fps at 8 MP resolution.

For full details on any of the models shown below, simply click an image.

(Image of Fujifilm super zoom compact provided by amazon)

Get f2.8 brightness across the full zoom range

If you're looking for a DSLR-alternative for shooting wildlife or action, these are the best super zoom compact cameras on the market due to the full range f2.8 brightness and speed. Both cameras have a 24x optical zoom (600mm equivalent). The Panasonic is priced to appeal to a wider market segment, while the Leica is definitely a prosumer camera geared to serious photographers who are willing to pay for a larger sensor and Leica quality.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ200
12.1 MP, 24x Optical Zoom, full range f2.8CHECK PRICE

Leica V-Lux2 Camera
14.1 Megapixels, 24x Optical Zoom, full range f2.8CHECK PRICE

Which should you choose?

I already owned a DSLR when I bought my Panasonic super zoom, but if you can't afford to own multiple cameras and are still struggling whether to go with a superzoom or DSLR, this page might help you decide. I've listed pros and cons of each type of camera and included sample images from my Canon EOS 7D and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ200.

Superzoom or DSLR? Selecting One That's Right for You
If you're thinking about upgrading from a simple compact camera and are torn between a superzoom and a DSLR, your quandary is not surprising. Both offer advanta...

Get closer to the action with these camera. Click on any image to learn more about the super zoom digital cameras shown here.

This video is only 20 seconds long, but gives you an example of the zoom capability of these compact cameras. This was shot with the Fujifilm FinePix HS20 with 30x optical zoom.

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