Pro features, less fuss: The best bridge cameras of 2024

For us, this Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ1000 II is an outstanding bridge camera that balances high-resolution photography with true versatility at a sensible price. This model sports a 20.1-megapixel 1-inch sensor – ideal for capturing plenty of details. It's equipped with a 25-400mm Leica DC Vario-Elmarit lens too, and that means you’ll have a significant range with your shots – from wide-angle to long zoom. That’s perfect for everything from landscapes to wildlife shots and everything in between.

This camera is also capable of 4K video at 30fps, adding another significant string to its bow in terms of the overall feature set. For those looking to expand on their photography post-production skills, it supports RAW files — allowing you to leave in-camera processing behind and tweak every detail of your image in photo editing applications like Lightroom.

We also like the body design and intuitive tile and swivel touchscreen, making getting things framed up in cramped or awkward shooting conditions that much easier. However, it's not without its niggles. The autofocus, while reliable, can sometimes hunt for a subject in very low light conditions – not that unusual with cameras in this price bracket. Overall, the Lumix DC-FZ1000 II is a truly compelling choice for anyone who is moving on from more basic models to manual photography without splashing out on more expensive and complex full DSLRs.

We were pleasantly surprised with this Kodak PIXPRO Astro Zoom AZ405-BK as it has a resolution of 20 megapixels; that’s 4 megapixels more than the previous model. Sensors that good are still something of a rarity in a budget bridge camera, but this one is going to be a noticeable step up from any basic point-and-shoot digital camera.

It has an excellent 40x optical zoom lens that spans 24-960mm - putting this model firmly into what photographers call the ‘superzoom’ category. This lens offers real versatility, from wide landscapes to detailed telephoto shots. Travellers or wildlife enthusiasts will love the reach that this camera offers for the money, as it does away with the usual expense and bulk of interchangeable lenses. Additionally, the camera includes a 3-inch LCD screen that is easy to see and use from various angles.

There is video recording here, but sadly not at 4K resolution – that’s understandable at this price point though. The AZ405-BK does, however, support HD video recording which is fine for casual videography. While it does lack some advanced features found in pricier models, we think its affordability and the inclusion of essential functions make it a practical option for those looking to explore photography while keeping hold of their purse strings.

There’s no doubt that Sony is a force to be reckoned with in the field of digital photography, and this Sony RX10 IV proves its credentials as a high-end bridge camera from the moment you clap your eyes on it. We love that it integrates features that are advanced yet still accessible for both amateur and professional photographers. Equipped with a solid 20.1-megapixel sensor and 24-600mm f/2.4-4 zoom lens, you’ll benefit from a seriously impressive image quality and shot versatility. The RX10 IV is perfect for capturing everything from wide landscapes to detailed close-ups.

Plus, video enthusiasts will appreciate the ability to shoot in both 4K and super slow motion at high frame rates. This capability, combined with a lightning-fast autofocus system, makes the RX10 IV exceptionally capable in fast-paced situations. Additionally, its sturdy build and weather-sealed body make it a reliable choice for outdoor photography.

However, we do think that the camera’s considerable weight of just over a kilogram might be heavy for those who like to travel light. That said, we think that’s really a testament to the superior build quality and overall package on offer here. We think the Sony RX10 IV is a powerhouse of a bridge camera that is well-suited to a wide variety of environments and subjects.

Nikon has a well-deserved reputation for sheer lens and image quality with its DSLRs, and so this Nikon Coolpix P950 really stands out as one of the brand’s few departures into the bridge camera market. This really is a superzoom bridge camera in every sense of the word, thanks to its impressive 83x optical zoom. Yes, in 35mm equivalent terms that means you can reach everything from 24mm to a whopping 2000mm. The Coolpix P950 really will let you capture everything from sweeping landscapes to distant wildlife without so much as reaching for a different lens.

It has a 16-megapixel sensor, so it’s not the highest here, but the P950 delivers clear and detailed images as you’d expect from Nikon. One feature we’re especially happy to see, given the immense reach of that lens, is the Dual Detect Optical VR. That provides enough vibration stabilisation to allow you to shoot at a significant 5.5 stops slower than without, making it a crucial feature for taking those high-zoom shots.

For us, the P950 does much more than just bridge the gap between a compact and a DSLR – and that’s down to features like the lens of course, but also the vari-angle LCD screen and a high-resolution electronic viewfinder. This camera is a versatile shooter, allowing videographers to shoot in 4K UHD too. It has to be said, though, that the camera’s DSLR-like bulkiness might make some question whether they should make the leap to an entry-level DSLR instead. But, for us that immense lens is the clincher, as it replaces so many traditional lenses in one unit.

Owning a decent bridge camera isn’t always kind on the wallet, but we like to think that spending a sensible amount on a mid-budget camera can get you the best of all worlds. This Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ330 Bridge Camera is a prime example of a very well-balanced set of specs and features. Its 12MP resolution may not be the highest, but it’s a fine choice for anyone upgrading from a compact.

For us, the star component here is the versatile 25-600mm Leica lens, making it a flexible choice for photographers at all levels. This camera's f/2.8 constant aperture allows for consistent exposure settings across the entire zoom range too, facilitating sharp, high-quality images even in a low-light setting. As you’d expect from Panasonic, it’s equipped with 4K video capability, a touch screen and high-speed autofocus, making both still and video shoots that much easier.

Yes, you’ll find higher megapixel counts on the market ~ but you’ll either pay more for the privilege or find other corners have been cut to reach a similar mid-budget price. So, for those who value practicality, flexibility and ease of use over sheer pixel count, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ330 is a real performer.

Sometimes all you need is a camera you can just point and shoot with, but with a much better lens and flexibility than a standard compact camera. That’s where the Kodak PIXPRO AZ652 Bridge Camera comes in. It’s still a bridge camera with a seriously impressive 20-megapixel resolution and all of the manual settings you’d expect. But, it's the 65x optical zoom lens (equivalent to 24-1560mm) that really gives the AZ652 its superzoom status. Imagine the sheer cost and number of ordinary DSLR lenses you’d need to have that sort of flexibility – from broad landscapes to close-ups and distant shots of wildlife.

For the simplicity of automatic shooting, the AZ652 offers a range of intelligent modes. The 360° Scan Panorama mode allows for easy expansive scenic shots, and the Face Beautifier does what it says in a similar vein to smartphone apps. But, it’s the other various scene modes – like Portrait, Night Portrait, Landscape, Sport and even Snow – that ensure optimal results.

However, it's worth noting that while the massive optical zoom lens on the AZ652 excels in reach, its sheer length can limit its low-light performance, so you may need to consider a more specialised model if you’re focussing on night shooting without a flash. That said, we think that any enthusiast looking for a great mix of both automatic and manual modes (plus a seriously capable lens) will love this bridge camera.

Many classes of camera can shoot 4K video these days, but those that do are still probably half as capable as this one. The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-FZ2000EB is a bridge camera that’s squarely aimed at photographers with a serious interest in video. Equipped with a 20.1MP sensor for those sharp high-resolution images, plus a 24-480mm Leica lens for a versatile zoom range, this camera is capable of stunning manual and automatic shots.

Returning to its video capabilities, it supports 4K resolution – but this time we have both higher bitrates and variable framerates that will appeal to filmmakers looking to shoot in a variety of styles and to suit various technical needs in post-production. The LUMIX DMC-FZ2000EB also features a 1-inch sensor, which means enhanced image quality and low-light performance over lesser models.

However, we do think that the camera’s size (and weight of almost a kilogram) is a little cumbersome for longer shooting sessions. We recommend a tripod to all photographers, but in this case, it’s probably essential for shooting video or extensive stills sessions. Overall, it's a high-performance bridge camera that delivers professional-grade results for both still shooters and videographers.

We love a camera with a wider lens than most, and this Canon PowerShot SX70 HS stands out for its impressive 65x optical zoom lens, ranging from 21mm at its widest to 1365mm at full zoom. Serious zoom capabilities aside for a moment, at its widest, this is designed to favour capturing expansive landscapes. And that’s paired with a superb 20.3-megapixel sensor, so you’ll be shooting those vistas in sharp, high-resolution. This makes it ideal for spectacular scenic shots where every detail matters, from the subtle hues of the sky at sunset to the architectural details on distant buildings.

Given all that detail and lens flexibility, we’re happy to see that the SX70 HS supports RAW format. So, if you’re a photographer who likes to fine-tune their images in post-production, it’s a brilliant camera choice. Other features include a fast autofocus system that can keep up with its broad zoom range, and that’s a great addition to its 4K video capability too.

However, we think that one slight drawback is its bulkier design. It’s not hugely different to many other bridge cameras, and the weight is reasonable, but as this is likely to appeal to photographers who like to get out and about it’s worth noting. That minor nitpick aside, this is an ideal camera for any landscape photographer who wants professional results without the expense of buying lenses for high-end DSLRs.

Kodak make it back into our pick of the best with another PIXPRO model, but this time it comes as a handy bundle. The Kodak PIXPRO AZ425 is equipped with a formidable 20MP sensor and an expansive 42x Astro Zoom lens (24-1008mm). So, while the lens doesn’t have the reach of the superior AZ652, it still offers an impressive range, able to quickly adapt from wide-angle shots to distant subjects.

Packing a 20-megapixel sensor, the AZ425 captures sharp, high-resolution images.
Included in the package are two Li-ion battery packs – ideal for anyone looking to spend longer on their shots, or those planning on taking a lot of photographs throughout the day.

We love the included camera case which, as a Kodak product, looks smart – and does ensure basic protection and portability for the price. Yes, you’ll find better, but as a one-stop shop for a camera that – with the addition of a memory card – is ready to take out with you right out of the box, it’s a great deal.

As fully-featured bridge cameras go, you’ll be hard-pushed to beat the Sony RX100 VII Premium Bridge Camera. As the name (and price) suggests, this is a professional-grade model with a ton of functionality in a compact format. And it’s that robust yet lightweight design and build that make it a standout bridge camera for those who need to travel light. Weighing just 302g, this camera blends true portability with power - thanks in part to the 1-inch 20.1MP sensor.

Equipped with a 24-200mm ZEISS lens, the RX100 VII may not have the sheer range of some of the ‘superzoom’ bridge cameras here, but it’s telephoto is still impressive enough for everything but distant wildlife or lunar photographers. It also packs the renowned Sony autofocus system, incorporating real-time tracking and real-time eye AF for both humans and animals. 4K video in HDR (High Dynamic Range, for over a billion colours) is a welcome addition too.

All in all, we think this is one of the most agile high-spec bridge cameras around, ensuring your subject is sharp in any situation. It’ll appeal to enthusiastic amateurs and seasoned professionals alike, with all the benefits but none of the bulk of a DSLR. However, despite its formidable capabilities, there’s no weather sealing here – so, we recommend investing in a waterproof camera bag and a cover if you’re shooting in wet conditions.