Best Pocket-sized Cameras
If you’re seeking the best pocket-sized cameras available in 2025, here are five top-rated models that combine portability with exceptional performance:
| Camera | Sensor | Lens (Equiv.) | Video | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fujifilm X100VI | 40.2MP APS-C | 23mm f/2 | 6.2K/30fps | Overall performance |
| Sony RX100 VII | 20MP 1-inch | 24–200mm f/2.8–4.5 | 4K | Versatility and zoom |
| Canon PowerShot V1 | 22.3MP Type 1.4 | 16–50mm | 4K/60fps | Vlogging and video content |
| Ricoh GR IIIx | 24.2MP APS-C | 40mm f/2.8 | 1080p | Street photography |
| Leica D-Lux 8 | 17MP MFT | 24–75mm f/1.7–2.8 | 4K | Style and simplicity |
Browse now
Ricoh GR IIIx – Best for Street Photography
Sensor: 24.2MP APS-C
Lens: Fixed 40mm f/2.8
Video: 1080p
Features: Built-in ND filter, compact design, high-quality lens
Why it stands out: The GR IIIx is favored by street photographers for its discreet profile and exceptional image quality.
Leica D-Lux 8 – Best for Iconic Style and Simplicity
Sensor: 17MP Micro Four Thirds
Lens: 24–75mm equivalent f/1.7–2.8
Video: 4K
Features: Classic Leica design, versatile aspect ratio switch
Why it stands out: The D-Lux 8 combines Leica’s renowned aesthetics with practical features, offering a stylish yet capable compact camera.
Fujifilm X100VI – Best Overall Compact Camera
Sensor: 40.2MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS
Lens: Fixed 23mm f/2
Video: 6.2K at 30fps, 4K at 60fps
Features: In-body image stabilization (IBIS), hybrid optical/electronic viewfinder, retro design
Why it stands out: The X100VI offers exceptional image quality in a compact, stylish body, making it ideal for street and travel photography.
Sony RX100 VII – Best for Versatility and Zoom
Sensor: 20MP 1-inch stacked CMOS
Lens: 24–200mm equivalent f/2.8–4.5
Video: 4K video, 20fps burst shooting
Features: Fast autofocus, compact design, extensive zoom range
Why it stands out: The RX100 VII packs a powerful zoom and rapid shooting capabilities into a pocket-sized camera, making it perfect for travelers and action photographers.
Canon PowerShot V1 – Best for Vlogging and Video Content
Sensor: 22.3MP Type 1.4 sensor
Lens: 16–50mm equivalent
Video: 4K at 60fps
Features: Dual Pixel AF II, vari-angle touchscreen, built-in cooling fan
Why it stands out: Designed specifically for content creators, the PowerShot V1 offers excellent video quality and user-friendly features in a compact form.
Here’s why you might still choose a pocket camera over a smartphone:
Pocket cameras (also known as compact or point-and-shoot cameras) still hold key advantages over smartphone cameras, even in 2025 — despite smartphones getting better each year.
1. Larger Sensors = Better Image Quality
Pocket cameras like the Fujifilm X100VI or Ricoh GR IIIx use APS-C sensors or large 1-inch sensors.
Smartphones, even the high-end ones, still use much smaller sensors.
Result: Pocket cameras produce sharper images with more dynamic range and better low-light performance.
2. Superior Optics and True Optical Zoom
Pocket cameras have high-quality glass lenses and true optical zoom (e.g. Sony RX100 VII’s 24–200mm lens).
Smartphones rely on digital zoom or use multiple small lenses, which degrade image quality when zooming.
Result: Better detail, sharper zoomed-in shots, and real depth of field control.
3. Manual Controls and Creative Flexibility
Pocket cameras give full control over aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and more.
Smartphones may offer “Pro” modes, but controls are limited and less tactile.
Result: Greater creative freedom, especially for photography enthusiasts and pros.
4. Low-Light and Night Photography
Thanks to their larger sensors and fast lenses, pocket cameras handle low-light scenes far better than smartphones.
Smartphones use AI and computational tricks, but can still suffer from noise and smudging.
Result: Cleaner, more natural-looking night shots.
5. Uncompressed and Professional File Formats
Pocket cameras allow RAW photo capture and higher-bitrate video.
Smartphones compress files, limiting post-processing capabilities.
Result: More flexibility in editing for those who shoot professionally.
6. Battery Life and Dedicated Use
Pocket cameras are optimized for photography-only tasks, so they don’t drain like smartphones.
You won’t miss a shot due to notifications, calls, or app slowdowns.
Result: Reliable performance, especially on trips or long shooting sessions.
If you’re serious about image quality or enjoy photography as a hobby or profession, a pocket camera is still very much worth carrying in your bag or even your coat pocket.