Prime lens

By clicking a retailer link you consent to third-party cookies that track your onward journey. If you make a purchase, Which? will receive an affiliate commission, which supports our mission to be the UK's consumer champion.

telephoto lens中文

They’re built inside a waterproof, dustproof and usually shockproof casing. This means you can take them to the swimming pool and the seaside, or even while you're snorkelling or scuba diving

There are four main types of digital camera: compact, bridge, DSLR and mirrorless cameras. DSLRs and mirrorless models have interchangeable lenses.

Smaller and technically more advanced than a DSLR, they offer professional-level features, such as 4K video or fast continuous shooting. However, they don’t have as many lenses or accessories available compared with DSLRs.

Telephoto lens

Most waterproof cameras will work at depths of down to 15 metres, although 10 metres should be good enough for all but the keenest divers. The best cameras still take great photos when you've taken the plunge.

Wide lens

Typically called a point-and-shoot, a compact camera has a fixed lens and is small enough to carry in a pocket or small bag.

Optical lens

CORDURA® in fibre thickness 700 den combines the high wear and tear resistance of the classic 1000 den fabric with the lightness of the 500 den fabric.

You can find decent bridge cameras for less than £300. Spending more will generally get you a larger or more capable sensor, and a longer or more versatile zoom lens. Our best bridge cameras start at £600 and go up to £1,500, but you can read our bridge camera reviews to find the best bridge camera for your budget.

If you're going to be taking pictures anywhere near water, whether that's while you're relaxing on the beach, paddle boarding on a river or just when you're out walking on a wet day in the UK, a compact waterproof camera is worth considering.

However,  not all waterproof cameras cope when they find themselves in the deep end. During our tests we found a few waterproof cameras that didn't perform well. The picture quality was so bad you might as well do without.

This is a sub-type of compact camera. Waterproof and shockproof, these are very tough cameras built to withstand adventures in the great outdoors.

The type you go for will depend on a number of factors, including what you want to photograph or film, how portable you want it to be and the image quality you're looking for.

Zoom lens

However, there are big differences in picture quality and advanced features, and not every digital camera is easy to use – something to consider if you're a beginner. If you want to find the best camera for your needs, read on for our expert advice on the key factors to consider.

If you're interested in finding more out about how DSLR cameras compare with mirrorless cameras, read our guide - mirrorless vs DSLR cameras: what's the difference?.

Compact camera prices range from £60 for a lower-priced point-and-shoot model to around £1,200 for a top-of-the-line camera. The average price for a Best Buy compact camera is £805, but you can also find a top-rated compact model for around £450.

telephoto中文

If you want your photography to have that professional touch and you're keen for the best possible picture quality, there’s no substitute for a DSLR camera. Also referred to as digital SLR (single-lens reflex) cameras, DSLRs tend to be bulky, but they're also very flexible – allowing you to change lenses to suit and control every aspect of your photography.

The flexible movement gusset on the front of the bag allows the handle to remain on the lens. With hook-and-loop and length adjustment for different lens lengths and a MOLLE system on the back.

DSLRs are generally the most expensive camera type, and with the cost of the interchangeable lenses on top, their costs easily get into the thousands. That being said, if you're looking for a camera that captures images of the highest quality, DSLRs are the way to go. See our DSLR camera reviews to find the perfect one for you, or read our buying guide to the best DSLR cameras.

Moment Lens

We've rounded up our best compact cameras. Alternatively, see our digital camera reviews to find the best point-and-shoot camera for you.

Our Best Buy mirrorless cameras range from £650 to £3,899 – the top end buys you the kind of camera that professional photographers aspire to. You can also read our mirrorless camera reviews to find the best model for your budget.

Bridge cameras are halfway between a compact camera and a DSLR. They have more advanced features (such as manual controls to change ISO, shutter speed and aperture) than you get from a basic compact camera, but typically aren't quite as advanced or expensive as DSLRs and mirrorless cameras. This is because of their fixed-lens setup, although the best bridge cameras will have an excellent zoom.

If you want superior image quality and interchangeable lenses, without the bulk of a DSLR, a mirrorless camera (also known as a compact system camera) is a solid choice.

The best compact cameras offer a good compromise between features and price, and are often ideal all-rounders. But choose the wrong model and you can end up with a flimsy camera that takes out-of-focus snaps.

The best cameras take fantastic photos in every situation, whether you’re on holiday, at a family gathering or just enjoying a day out.