Digital cameras with noninterchangeable, long-range zoom lenses were traditionally known as bridge cameras. That’s because they bridge the gap between entry-level point-and-shoot cameras (a vanishing breed) and interchangeable-lens mirrorless and DSLR cameras. However, lately consumers and retailers refer to them as all-in-one super-zoom cameras. That’s because they provide focal lengths ranging from wide angle to extreme telephoto in a portable camera.
Delivering exceptional versatility in convenient, compact packages, these P&S appeal to travelers, family shooters as well as vacationers. Even serious shooters who already own an interchangeable-lens mirrorless or DSLR system see their value.
The new and current models on our short list also qualify as crossover or multimedia cameras. They can capture impressive video footage as well as crisp, detailed high-res stills. It’s notable that three out of the 10 cameras covered here incorporate large 1-inch, high-res CMOS sensors that can give APS-C and full-frame mirrorless cameras and DSLRs a run for the money in terms of still and video image quality. And that is especially true at high ISO settings.
The majority also provide 4K UHD 30p video capture and elevated sensitivity settings of ISO 12,800 and above. Furthermore, all deliver sizzling maximum full-resolution burst rates of at least 5 frames per sec and up to an incredible 60 fps and higher. Plus, many have an array of enticing, useful special capabilities and full feature sets that rival those in the now dominant mirrorless class.
Super-Zoom Trends
Super-zoom cameras continue to sell quite well. They offer an attractive alternative for, among others, travelers, sightseers and vacationers. However, it’s significant that no new super-zoom cameras have come onto the market in the past two years or so. Indeed, at least one successful model detailed below, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ300, was first introduced in 2015(!). In addition, several others have been in production for at least 4–5 years.
Obviously, this is a testament to the thought and technical development that went into creating them. However, what it bodes for the entire category is anybody’s guess. It’s also noteworthy that a few of the cameras on our list were temporarily discontinued due to “component supply issues” during the pandemic. But all have returned, evidently unscathed, and that is surely a hopeful sign.
Whatever happens going forward, super-zoom cameras are great choices for a broad spectrum of consumers. For the foreseeable future, they’re still a vibrant niche for savvy retailers.
A Selection of All-in-One Super-Zoom Cameras
Canon PowerShot SX740 HS
This Canon P&S combines an advanced feature set with an attractive, minimalist form factor. The all-in-one compact seamlessly integrates a 20.3-megapixel, 1/2.3-inch CMOS sensor with a 40x optical zoom, 24–960mm f/3.3–6.9* lens with optical image stabilization (IS). Plus, it uses Canon’s advanced Digic 8 processor. And all are housed in a surprisingly compact package.
The versatile lens also works with 2x and 4x digital zoom for combined zoom ratios of 80x and 160x, respectively. In addition, it focuses down to 0.39 of an inch at the wide setting in macro mode. Notably, a zoom framing assistant function facilitates tracking at the long end by zooming out and back in once you’ve located your subject.
Moreover, the SX740 HS can capture full-res images at 10 fps with AF enabled. It also provides 4K UHD video recording at 30 fps as well as Full HD video at 30 and 60 fps. Furthermore, it has sensitivity settings of ISO 100–3200 in extended mode. And a feature assistant function shortens the learning curve by explaining many features.
The PowerShot SX740 HS has a 3-inch, 922K-dot LCD that tilts 180° for taking selfies and shoot at low and high angles. It also offers built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for sharing, editing and pairing the camera with a mobile device via the Canon Camera Connect app. Plus, it accepts SD/SDHC/SDXC/UHS-1 memory cards. The camera measures a super-slim 4.3×2.5×1.6 inches and weighs in at a mere 9.7 ounces. In black or silver, $399.99.
Nikon Coolpix P1000
We just have to include Nikon’s ultra-long zoom classic in any article on super-zoom P&S cameras for its remarkable range. It is acclaimed for its class-leading, 17-element, 12-group, 125x, 24–3000mm-equivalent f/2.8–8 Nikkor zoom lens. And the lens’s range is extendable to an amazing 250x (6000mm) with the camera’s Dynamic Fine digital zoom feature. Plus, it focuses from 12 inches to infinity at the wide end. What’s more, this remarkable camera has a snapback button that returns the lens to its previous position. This allows you to find your subject at long tele settings, even when shooting detailed moonscapes!
The lens pairs with a 16MP, 1/2.3-inch BSI (backside-illuminated) CMOS sensor and an Expeed image processor. Together they enable full-res bursts at up to 7 fps for 7 frames (JPEG). The P1000 also has sensitivity settings of ISO 100–6400. In addition, it records 4K UHD video at 25 and 30 fps, as well as Full HD 1080p video at 25, 30, 50 and 60 fps.
What enables the camera to perform so well in real-world scenarios is Nikon’s Dual Detect Optical Vibration Reduction (VR) technology. The advanced image stabilization system provides a 5-stop advantage in minimizing the effects of handheld camera shake when shooting stills or video. Moreover, its contrast-detection AF system provides multi-area, center and selective single-point options; plus single, continuous and tracking modes; along with face detection and live view.
The P1000 also features a big, 3.2-inch, 921K-dot, vari-angle LCD monitor and a 100% view, 2.36M-dot, eye-level electronic viewfinder (EVF). What’s more, it has a variety of nifty shooting modes, including moon and bird modes. Further, a handy control ring grants instant access to frequently used settings. There’s also a pop-up auto flash. With Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, the camera accepts an optional ML-17 remote. The P1000 measures 5.8×4.7×7.2 inches and weighs in at 3.1 pounds with battery and memory card. $999.95.
Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ1000 II
With an ergonomic control layout, this Panasonic long-range compact is aimed at sophisticated shooters on the go. Its 15-element, 11-group f/2.8–4 Leica DC Vario-Elmarit lens includes five aspheric and four extra-low dispersion (ED) elements. They minimize spherical and chromatic aberrations while enhancing sharpness. The lens covers a 16x, 25–400mm range that extends to a combined 32x and 64x using the optimized digital zoom feature. It also focuses down to 1.2 inches in macro mode.
In addition, the FZ1000 II incorporates a 1-inch, 20.1MP High Sensitivity MOS sensor. It couples with an advanced Venus Engine image processor to achieve a full-resolution burst rate of 12 fps with single-shot AF, 7 fps with continuous AF, and 30 fps at 8MP in 4K photo mode. The camera also records 4K UHD 30p and 24p video and Full HD 1080p 120-fps video for slow-motion playback. Moreover, in provides sensitivity settings of ISO 125–12,800, which expand to ISO 25,600.
Furthermore, to minimize the effects of handheld camera shake, the P&S has a built-in 5-axis, hybrid, optical sensor-shift IS system. Plus, its advanced AF system uses Depth from Defocus (DFD) technology to achieve quick, quiet, precise autofocus. The DC-FZ1000 II also incorporates two viewing systems. There’s a live view, 2.36M-dot OLED EVF that provides a 100% view of the captured image and comfortable eye-level viewing. In addition, there’s a 3-inch, 1.24M-dot, free-angle LCD touchscreen. The LCD also facilitates composing at high, low and front-facing angles.
Other key features include Wi-Fi/Bluetooth connectivity for sharing and remote control; 4K burst mode for continuous 8MP images at 30 fps; and 4K pre-burst that records 8MP images for a sec before the shutter is pressed. Additional benefits include post-focus and focus-stacking functions that let you choose the sharpest image from a series and combine images to extend the depth of field. There are also creative control, scene guides and photo style modes. The P&S measures 5.4×3.8×5.2 inches and weighs 28.8 ounces. $899.99.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV
This large-sensor, long-zoom Sony camera is a great choice for multimedia image makers who need extended reach. Plus, it provides a fast operating speed and high imaging performance in a portable package. Its crowning glory is an 18-element, 13-group 25x, 24–600mm f/2.4–4 Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens. Moreover, the lens couples with optical SteadyShot IS, providing a 4.5-stop advantage in minimizing the effects of handheld shake. Additionally, the lens focuses down to 1.2 inches for a 0.42x maximum magnification ratio. Plus, it combines with 2x Clear Image digital zoom. There are also dedicated lens control rings for zoom, focus and aperture settings (the latter de-clickable for video). Additionally, a step zoom feature cycles the zoom ring through popular fixed settings.
At the center of the high-end P&S is a 20.1MP, 1-inch Exmor BSI CMOS sensor and an advanced Bionz processor and a front-end LSI. They enable an impressive full-res framing rate of 24 fps as well as extended sensitivity settings from ISO 64 to ISO 12,800. The camera also records 4K UHD 30p and Full HD 1080/120p video. Plus, an XAVC S format option allows high bit rates up to 100Mbps. Moreover, the sensor’s back-illuminated, stacked design achieves clean, low-noise images, even at high ISO settings. It’s all complemented by a superfast hybrid AF system with 315 phase-detection and 25 contrast-detection points at the focal plane that focuses in as little as 0.03 sec.
The rich feature set also includes a 2.36M-dot OLED EVF, a 3-inch, 1.44M-dot tilting touchscreen LCD as well as a top LCD panel for quick checking of exposure and other settings. Of course, the camera has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Other video features include S-Log2 and S-Log3 Gamma picture profiles with an expanded dynamic range and a dedicated HFR mode to boost the frame rate to 960 fps.
Additionally features include a 1/32,000-sec electronic shutter for shooting in bright light; dual rec mode for capturing 17MP stills while shooting video; eye recognition AF; manual focus assist to magnify the image for precise MF; customizable function buttons you can assign to control any of 58 functions; and scene, picture effect, and style modes. All this is built into a robust, magnesium alloy body that’s dust and moisture resistant. The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV measures 5.3×3.7×5.7 inches and weighs 2.4 pounds complete with battery and memory card. $1,699.99.
Kodak PixPro AZ901
This handsome ultra-zoom compact is at the top of the PixPro Astro Zoom collection from JK Imaging, a Kodak licensee. Its signature feature is a 14-group, 18-element, 22–1980mm f/3.1–6.8 zoom lens. The lens features an extensive 90x zoom range. In addition, built-in 4x digital zoom reaches up to a 360x combined zoom!
Other impressive features comprise a 20.7MP, 1/2.3-inch BSI CMOS image sensor for enhanced image clarity. The PixPro P&S also provides sensitivity settings from ISO 100 to 3200 as well as built-in optical image stabilization. Moreover, there is an eye-level electronic viewfinder plus an articulating 3-inch, 920K-dot LCD monitor for working at high and low angles.
The Astro Zoom flagship captures Full HD 1080p video at 30p as well as HD (1,280×720) video at 60p. Furthermore, its maximum, full-resolution framing rate tops out at 5 fps. Also notable is single and multiple 9-point AF with face-detection mode, as well as smile-, blink-, dog- and cat-detection modes. Plus, its 360º panorama mode creates sweeping images by panning the camera.
Other features are a built-in flash; metering methods such as AI (artificial intelligence), AE, center-weighted averaging and spot; exposure modes (aperture priority, auto, manual, program and shutter priority); and built-in Wi-Fi connectivity. The Kodak PixPro AZ901 measures a chunky but ergonomic 5.5×4.1×4.7 inches and weighs 27.4 ounces. $499.99.
Leica V-Lux 5
The stylish, travel-ready Leica V-Lux 5 is squarely aimed at sophisticated multimedia shooters. The high-end camera boasts a high-performance, 16x optical zoom, 25–400mm f/2.8–4.0 DC Vario-Elmarit Asph lens to capture subjects near and far. The high-tech lens comprises 15 elements in 11 groups, including five aspherical lenses, eight aspherical surfaces and four ED lenses. The lens also focuses down to 1.2 inches in macro mode, while 2x and 4x digital zoom provide combined zoom ratios of 32x and 64x, respectively.
In addition, the V-Lux 5 features a large, 1-inch, 20.1MP CMOS sensor and a new, vibrant 2.36M-dot OLED EVF with 0.74x magnification for improved color, contrast and power efficiency. Along with the EVF, the P&S has a fully articulated, flip-out, tilting 3-inch, 1.24M-dot touchscreen LCD.
The camera’s advanced sensor and image processing technologies also enable fast, precise AF performance with continuous full-res bursts of 12 fps plus 4K (8MP) bursts at 30 fps. Further, 4K pre-burst mode starts recording 8MP images at 30 fps one second before and after pressing the shutter release. Other video features include 4K burst S/S for instant video pause, playback and frame marking; Full HD video recording at 30 and 60 fps; as well as post-focus and focus-stacking functions for more precise control of the in-focus area.
Moreover, sensitivity settings from ISO 125–12,800 are extendable from ISO 80 to 25,600. Supporting all this is an integrated 5-axis optical IS system that minimizes the effects of handheld shake. Plus, built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity permits wireless sharing and remote control from a linked smartphone or tablet via the Leica FOTOS app. The Leica V-Lux 5 measures 5.4×3.8×5.2 inches and weighs 1.8 pounds with battery and SD, SDHC or SDXC memory card. $1,595.
Nikon Coolpix B500
Its perky “downsized SLR” design, excellent ergonomics as well as enticing price point are why the Nikon Coolpix B500 appeals to a broad spectrum of users. It features a 16MP, 1/2.3-inch low-light CMOS sensor. It’s coupled to a 40x, 22.5–900mm f/3–6.5 Nikkor ED VR optical zoom lens and lens-shift VR image stabilization. What’s more, Dynamic Fine Zoom technology doubles the lens’s reach to 80x. And 4x digital zoom provides a maximum equivalent focal length of 3600mm! Additionally, the lens focuses down to 0.4 inch in wide macro mode for compelling close-ups.
In addition, a tilting 3-inch, 921K-dot LCD provides a detailed view of captured content and lets you easily browse through menus. Further, built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and NFC connectivity facilitates sharing. It also enables wireless remote control and content transfer via the Nikon SnapBridge app.
Furthermore, the camera employs a contrast-detection, intelligent target AF system that quickly locates the subject and achieves precise focus. Plus, easy auto mode automatically optimizes the camera settings for each shot. There are 18 scene modes, including beach, snow, night portrait and sunset. The Coolpix B500 can capture Full HD 1,920×1,080p video at 30 fps as well as 1,920×1,080i video at 60 and 50 fps. Plus, it offers sensitivity settings up to ISO 6400 and continuous full-res bursts up to 7.4 fps.
Powered by four AA alkaline or lithium batteries, the P&S accepts SD, SDHC as well as SDXC memory cards. The camera measures a compact 4.5×3.1×3.3 inches and weighs in at a portable 19.1 ounces with batteries and SD card. In black, red or plum, $349.95.
Canon PowerShot SX70 HS
Canon’s compact, long-zoom P&S is at the top end of the category in terms of zoom range. Its 65x optical zoom lens covers an ultrawide to super-telephoto equivalent focal length range. The 21–1365mm f/3.4–6.5 lens is supported by a versatile dual-sensing image stabilization system. The IS system achieves up to a 5 stop advantage in minimizing the effects of handheld camera shake.
In addition, the lens works with the camera’s 4x digital zoom for a combined 260x zoom reach. Plus, it also has a zoom-framing assist function that makes it easy to track a moving subject when the zoom is fully extended. It zooms out to help locate the subject and then returns the lens to its original position, keeping the subject in focus.
Moreover, the PowerShot SX70 HS pairs a high-res, 1/2.3-inch, 20.3MP CMOS image sensor with an advanced Digic 8 processor. As a result, the P&S provides such impressive specs as a 10-fps, full-res burst rate; 4K UHD video capture at 30p; 4K time-lapse video creation in-camera; Full HD recording; as well as sensitivity settings of ISO 100–3200.
Other key features include a 2.36M-dot OLED EVF for convenient eye-level shooting; built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for sharing and remote control; a 3-inch, 920K-dot, articulating LCD that enables high- and low-angle shooting; a built-in hand grip; and an auto flash with slow-sync mode. The PowerShot SX70 HS also accepts SD/SDHC/SDXC cards. It measures 5.0×3.6×4.6 inches and weighs in at 21.4 ounces. $599.99.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX99
This slim, portable Sony bridge camera features an excellent 11-element, 10-group, 28x optical zoom, f/3.5–6.4 Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens. The lens covers a 24–270mm focal length range. Moreover, five aspheric elements reduce spherical aberrations over the entire zoom range. Notably, the T* antireflective coatings control flare and ghosting. The P&S also has a zoom-assist function that lets you zoom more accurately while shooting faraway subjects. It does so with a quick, temporary zoom-out display to showcase a wider area. And when using the clear image zoom function, the subject is magnified to 1440mm while preserving high resolution! Further, a control ring around the lens lets you quickly adjust commonly used settings, like aperture and shutter speed.
The DCS-HX99 also incorporates an 1/2.3-inch, 18.2MP Exmor R BSI CMOS image sensor and an advanced Bionz X processor with a front-end LSI. Consequently, the compact camera offers a maximum 10-fps, full-res continuous framing rate for 155 shots. In addition, it has a sensitivity range that’s expandable to ISO 6400.
For multimedia content creators, the camera records 4K UHD video at 30p and 24p. It also captures high frame rate HD video at up to 120 fps to produce slow-motion sequences during editing. And a large right-hand grip provides added comfort as well as support during long shooting sessions.
Other features include a pop-up, 639K-dot OLED Tru-Finder EVF; a tilting, 3-inch, 922K-dot touch LCD; built-in Optical SteadyShot image stabilization to combat handheld camera shake; Wi-Fi with NFC as well as Bluetooth connectivity for sharing and remote camera control; eye AF capability; and a pop-up flash. The Cyber-shot DSC-HX99 measures 4.0×2.3×1.4 inches and weighs in at a very portable 8.6 ounces. $474.99.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ300
The versatile Panasonic compact sports an elite 24x, 25–600mm f/2.8–8 Leica DC Vario-Elmarit lens. The lens integrates five aspheric elements, a total of nine aspheric surfaces as well as three ED elements. The result is exceptional imaging performance over its entire zoom range. There’s also an intelligent zoom function that doubles the zoom ratio and extra optical zoom that crops the image to yield a 29.4x or 46.9x zoom magnification at 8MP and 3MP, respectively.
The lens is complemented with a 5-axis hybrid optical IS system that compensates for five types of camera shake, in both still and video capture. It also includes a level shot feature that maintains a level horizon line when the camera is tilted. Further, the FZ300 has a 1/2.3-inch, 12.1MP MOS sensor that works with a Venus Engine processor. The combo achieves a continuous framing rate of up to 60 fps with its electronic shutter and 12 fps with its mechanical shutter. The camera also provides various recording functions: 4K UHD video recording at 30p and 24p; Full HD at 60p; 4K burst mode for capturing 8MP stills at 30 fps; and 4K pre-burst mode that records 8MP 30p images for a second prior to pressing the shutter release!
For composing and review, it sports a 1.44M-dot, 0.7x magnification OLED live viewfinder that provides eye-level monitoring. It’s joined by a 3-inch, 1.04M-dot, free-angle touchscreen LCD that permits high- and low-angle composition. Another notable feature is the P&S’s DFD (Depth from Defocus) AF system that allows for greater speed and responsiveness.
Other features comprise a splash- and dustproof body with a right-hand grip; four assignable buttons; as well as rear and side dials for easy shutter speed and aperture control. Also provided is a macro mode for focusing down to 0.4 inch; creative panorama mode; creative controls; as well as still image scene guide modes, plus picture adjustment settings. The Lumix FZ300 measures 5.2×3.6×4.6 inches and weighs 24.4 ounces. $499.99.
* All focal length ranges are in 35mm equivalents unless otherwise noted.
