4 best digital cameras under 300

Digital cameras under $300 are often categorized as budget-friendly options, suitable for individuals who are looking for an affordable camera for photography or casual use. While they may not offer the advanced features and capabilities of more expensive models, they can still provide decent image quality and functionality. Here are some common characteristics and considerations for digital cameras in this price range:

  1. Point-and-Shoot Cameras: Many digital cameras under $300 fall into the point-and-shoot category. These cameras are compact, easy to use, and generally have automatic shooting modes, making them suitable for beginners.

  2. Megapixels: Cameras in this price range typically offer resolutions between 12 to 20 megapixels, which are sufficient for everyday photography and social media sharing.

  3. Zoom: You can expect optical zoom ranges of 5x to 20x in these cameras. This allows you to capture distant subjects or take wide-angle shots.

  4. LCD Screens: Most budget digital cameras come with LCD screens, which serve as viewfinders and allow you to review your photos and navigate the camera's settings.

  5. Basic Features: While they may not have advanced features, these cameras often include common shooting modes like portrait, landscape, and macro. They also offer basic exposure settings such as ISO and white balance adjustments.

  6. Video Recording: Most digital cameras under $300 are capable of recording HD (720p) video, making them suitable for capturing both photos and videos.

  7. Battery Life: Battery life varies depending on the camera model and usage. Some cameras come with rechargeable batteries, while others use AA or AAA batteries.

  8. Storage: These cameras typically use SD cards or similar memory cards for storing photos and videos.Make sure to factor in the cost of a memory card when budgeting for your camera.

  9. Build Quality: Cameras in this price range may have plastic bodies and may not be as rugged as more expensive models. However, they are generally lightweight and portable.

  10. Brand and Model: Recognized camera brands like Canon, Nikon, Sony, Panasonic, and Fujifilm offer budget-friendly options in this price range, and their models often receive positive reviews for their value.

When shopping for a digital camera under $300, it's essential to consider your specific needs and preferences. Think about the type of photography you plan to do and whether you prioritize features like zoom, image quality, or ease of use. Reading reviews and comparing different models can help you find the best camera that fits within your budget.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best digital cameras under 300 on the market
  

Panasonic LUMIX FZ80 4K Digital Camera, 18.1 Megapixel Video Camera, 60X Zoom DC VARIO 20-1200mm Lens, F2.8-5.9 Aperture, Power O.I.S. Stabilization, Touch Enabled 3-Inch LCD, Wi-Fi, DC-FZ80K (Black)

Panasonic

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Perfect for travelers, the Panasonic Lumix Digital Camera DC FZ80K brings the legendary optical performance of a super long 60X (20 1200mm) DC Vario lens with amazingly stable O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) to a highly portable point and shoot travel camera. With a powerful 18.1 megapixel MOS sensor, the Lumix DC VARIO camera lens features a super bright F2.8 5.9 aperture range that is optically stabilized with Panasonic’s Power O.I.S. technology to add striking depth of field dimension to your photographs even in low light conditions. The high resolution power of 4K video technology captures up to 4X the resolution (3840 x 2160) of standard Full HD, enabling you to create printable photos with 4K photo's blistering 30 frames per second burst feature. Post Focus and Focus Stacking provide for additional creative freedom by allowing you to change depth of field or focus points after you take the picture. The Lumix FZ80 perfectly fits in your hand with an ergonomic grip while its rear touch enabled 3 inch LCD display and high resolution 1,170K dot viewfinder remain clear even in bright sunlight. Convenient travel ready technologies like USB charging and Wi Fi connectivity to your mobile device make the Lumix DC FZ80K a digital camera that everyone can enjoy.

  • Point and Shoot Long Zoom Camera: 18.1 megapixel MOS sensor plus 60X zooms DC Vario lens (20 1220 millimeter and Power O.I.S. (Optical Image Stabilizer) captures far off moments
  • High Resolution View Finder & LCD Display: High resolution 1,170K dot view finder and rear touch enabled 3 inch LCD Display (1040 dots) are clear even in bright sunlight.Lens:14 elements in 12 groups
  • 4K video Capture: 4K QFHD video recording (3840 x 2160) with three unique 4K ultra HD video pause and save 4K photo modes extracts individual high resolution Photos from 4K ultra HD video filmed at 30 frames per second to capture split second moments
  • Low Light Performance: Low light capture lets you enjoy photography during your nightlife again with impressive results; Note: Refer to user manual PDF attached below in technical specification for trouble shooting steps are on page 54
  • USB Charging and Wi-Fi Connectivity: Enjoy travel ready technologies like USB charging and Wi Fi connectivity to your mobile device; HDMI D (Micro), Micro USB and USB 2.0 provide additional connectivity to your favorite devices; Max resolution: 4896 x 3672

User questions & answers

Question: My digital camera has a delay between pushing the shutter button and the photo actually being snapped. What is the response time of this camera
Answer: Yes
Question: does it come with lens cover
Answer: If you are vloging no because the screen doesn’t flip back for you to see yourself and if you want good sound no because no audio port but it’s good otherwise
Question: Is this camera good in low light situations
Answer: It's fine for nature, sunsets and landscapes. It's not good for sports, because it only shoots 3 frames per second doesn't have the best lens for sports. It would do OK for sports outside in full sun, but you might want to get the kit that has the 70-300mm lens. It will do badly at indoor sports events.
Question: Can you take close up macro shots with this camera
Answer: yes it comes with both

Product features

Panasonic LUMIX Digital Camera DC-FZ80K

The perfect point-and-shoot camera for travelers, the Panasonic LUMIX Digital Camera DC-FZ80K combines exclusive 4K Photo with 4K video capture performance that everyone can enjoy. This 18.1 megapixel digital camera features a super-long 20-1200mm (60X) LUMIX DC VARIO lens with a super bright F2.8-5.9 aperture range that is optically stabilized with Panasonic’s POWER O.I.S. technology. High-resolution 4K video technology enables you to capture fast-paced action in stunning quality and create printable photos with 4K Photo ’s blistering 30 fps burst feature.

For additional creative freedom, Post Focus and Focus Stacking allow for changing the photos depth of field or focus points after you take the picture. Enjoy travel-ready technologies like USB charging and Wi-Fi connectivity to your mobile device for on the go convenience.

Long Zoom Camera that Everyone Can Enjoy

Perfect for travelers and professional photographers, the Panasonic LUMIX DC-FZ80K long zoom camera is an 'All-Rounder' that everyone can enjoy.

Photos by LUMIX Ambassador Jacob James.

Full Range 60X Long Zoom Captures Images Far and Wide

From 20mm wide-angle compositions for breathtaking landscapes, to an amazing 60X zoom to capture far off moments, the FZ80’s LUMIX DC VARIO lens brings it all together.

4K Photo Action Records and Saves High-Quality Images

4K video technology enables Ultra HD photography with the innovative 4K Photo feature. Simply capture ultra high-resolution 4K video at super-fast 30 frames per second, then press Play, Pause and Save to extract the exact instant you want from individual 4K video frames to create a 4K still image.

Impressive Low-Light Performance

Enjoy photography during your nightlife again with impressive low-light capture.

Shoot Now, 'Post Focus' Later for Creative Freedom

Panasonic’s 4K technology 'Post Focus' feature allows you to set your desired focus points after the photo has been taken. Plus, selecting several focus points via the Focus Stacking feature provides greater depth of focus creative freedom.

4K Video Captures 4X the Resolution of Standard Full HD

Unleash 4K technology with 4K video capture mode that captures up to 4X the resolution (3840 x 2160) of standard Full HD. It makes for amazing quality for your fast-paced action and exciting scenes.

Comfort Grip and High-Resolution Viewfinder

The LUMIX FZ80 perfectly fits in your hand with an ergonomic grip. Its high resolution 1,170K-dot viewfinder and rear touch-enabled 3-inch LCD display are clear even in bright sunlight.

Sony DSCW800/B 20.1 MP Digital Camera (Black)

Sony

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Sony DSCW800/B 20.1 MP Digital Camera with 2.7-Inch LCD (black). Light Metering Mode - Multi Pattern

  • MP Super HAD CCD sensor for beautifully detailed images. Blink Detection
  • Sony Lens w/ 5x Optical Zoom and 360 sweep panorama
  • Reduced blur with SteadyShot Image stabilization.Recording Format:Still Images: JPEG , Movie: AVI (Motion JPEG)
  • Capture your videos in 720p HD Movie mode
  • Simplify camera menu with Easy Mode; Digital Zoom- Still images: 20M approx.10x, 10M approx.7.1x, 5M approx.9.9x, VGA approx.40x, 2M(16:9) approx.13x, Movies: Digital Zoom approx. 10x (*1)
  • Super HAD CCD 20.1 MP sensor
  • Sony Lens with F3.2 (W) – 6.4 (T) Maximum Aperture

User questions & answers

Question: Can you get an external charger to charge the battery, or can you only charge the battery via USB while it is in the camera
Answer: Surprised someone is still asking about this and not really sure what you mean but...If you mean how many hours I ran it or its reliability I used it hundreds of hours over years and many drops and bangs and last I checked it still worked. If you mean battery life I think it was about 30 hours maybe 40 with radio or no song skipping.It was a great player and I using it heavily without fail through most of the ipod revolution. It wasn't until I got my ipod classic 4th gen 80 gig that I retired the sony. The ipod for double the price or so went from 120 songs to thousands. Fully shockproof, smaller more pocketable and better rechargable battery. The sony may have lasted longer though technologically as it was only a few years before I went to streaming through pandora. Still use the ipod where there is no data. Even then I miss directory forward/ back buttons of the sony. Ipod jog wheels suck especially when driving.
Question: How long does it take to charge the battery
Answer: are you referring to "rewritable" CDs as in a CD you created? Yes, it does play them
Question: How superior would you say this is compared to a 14mp camera? (I currently have an Olympus
Answer: I honestly don't know. The batteries in this unit last for a long time and I never needed one. I can go through about 100 cd s on one change of batteries. That is a guess because it could be more.
Question: What are the included items
Answer: It has an ear phone port and that's what I use on my phone to connect to the car Aux port.

Product features

Simplify Camera Menu with Easy Mode

Put your camera in easy mode to minimize the layers in your menu. This makes your shooting experience easy and enjoyable!

In Camera Guide Helps Navigate Features

A built-in instruction guide allows you to search the camera’s functions according to your needs wherever you may be.

Conveniently Charge your Battery via USB***

Charging your battery has never been easier via USB3. Simply connect your camera via USB to your PCs USB port and/or a power supply and charge your battery on the go.

Sweep Panorama Mode (up to 360°)

Reach beyond the traditional wide angle lens, and capture more breathtaking shots with Sweep Panorama mode. Simply press the shutter button and sweep the camera in the desired direction and the camera continuously shoots at a high speed, then seamlessly stitches the images together with automatic position adjustment to create one stunning panoramic image. Available in wide and up to 360° full circle, the camera can take a variety of panoramic shots. Now capturing wide landscapes is as easy as press and sweep.

Smile Shutter Technology Automatically Captures Smiles

Smile Shutter technology captures a smile the moment it happens. Simply press the Smile Shutter button and the camera does the rest. You can also select adult and child priority and indicate the degree of Smile Detection sensitivity. Intelligent Scene Recognition can now be used together with Smile Shutter mode when the Intelligent Auto mode is on. This means that beautiful smiles can be captured with settings optimized for the particular scene, even in difficult conditions such as twilight and backlighting.

Picture Effect for More Expressive Photos

Picture Effect adds a new level of expression to photos, making ordinary landscapes and portraits come to life by heightening mood and emphasizing certain attributes. Picture Effect can be applied to still images (4 modes), movies (4 modes) and panoramic shots (3 modes), giving photos and movies even greater impact.

RICOH WG-70 Orange Waterproof Digital Camera 16MP High Resolution Images Waterproof 14m Shockproof 1.6m Underwater Photography 6-LED Ring Light Digital Microscope Mode Tough Body Design for Workplace

Ricoh

Based on 29 reviews Check latest price

Product description

1. Heavy-duty construction assuring underwater shooting down to 14 meters, for up to two hours The solid, airtight body common to the WG-70 is not only waterproof down to a depth of 14 meters for up to two hours of continuous operation (equivalent to IPX 8 or JIS Class 8), but is also shockproof against falls from a height of 1. 6 meters, * dustproof (equivalent to IPX 6 or JIS Class 6), freeze-proof to temperatures as low as -10°C, and crushproof against weights up to 100kgf (kilogram force). ** Thanks to this heavy-duty construction, the cameras perform superbly and dependably even in harsh, demanding outdoor conditions. 2. Exceptional image quality The WG-70 comes equipped with a back-illuminated CMOS image sensor, which assures excellent high-sensitivity and low-noise characteristics and high-speed readout of image data signals. Coupled with a high-performance imaging engine, this image sensor delivers a top sensitivity of ISO 6400 and super-high-resolution images with approximately 16. 0 effective megapixels. These models also provide advanced image processing functions, made possible by the latest super-resolution technology, to assure sharp, clear, high-resolution images. They even offer such innovative features as Handheld Night Snap mode, which automatically captures several images of the same nighttime scene and produces a single, blur-free composite image from them. 3. Improved usability of Digital Microscope mode The WG-70 has a Digital Microscope mode that allows the subject to be greatly enlarged. Usability is improved as the recording size can be newly selected from 2M (1920 x 1080), which gives priority to enlargement with digital zoom, to a maximum of 12M (16: 9) (4608 x 2592), which is useful when printing or trimming with high resolution which further expands the field of shooting. 4. Six Macro Lights to assist close-up shooting, with various functions Ideally positioned around the circumference of the lens barrel for macro shooting, six LED Macro Lights allow the WG-70 to provide bright, uniform illumination on a subject when the Digital Microscope mode is selected. *** Thanks to these Macro Lights, the user can clearly see a magnified view of the microscopic world undetectable by the naked eye on the camera’s LCD monitor, and effortlessly capture eye-catching, close-up images. In order to minimize camera shake and subject shake, the Instant Illumination Enhance function allows for the use of a higher shutter speed by automatically raising the discharge level of the Macro Lights at the moment of shutter release. The Macro Lights also provide other useful functions, such as a Self-Portrait Assist mode, which uses the blink of an LED lamp to check if the subject’s face has been safely captured within the picture frame, and the LED Lighting mode, which uses the Macro Lights as a lighting device in the dark. 5. Advanced underwater shooting mode Specifically designed for underwater photography, the image processing of Underwater and Underwater Movie shooting modes optimize color, contrast, and white balance, based on the data of images captured under the water. These modes deliver sharp, true-to-life images by enhancing shades of red, which are lost in underwater photography, while effectively compensating for the loss of contrast caused by the diffusion of light in water. During Underwater mode, the Flash Off + Flash On option, allows the user to consecutively capture two images — with a single shutter release — one without flash and another with flash. 6. Cross Processing added to Image Tone Cross Processing is an effect popular among our products, which allows you to enjoy unique photographic expressions. With WG-70, this mode is added to Image Tone, which can be selected with several shooting modes including, P (Program). The parameters of the image is adjusted to give a unique color-changed finish, like a cross-processed film ***. 7. 5X optical zoom lens with a 28mm wide-angle coverage The WG-70 feature a high-performance, five-times optical zoom lens with a focal-length coverage from 5mm to 25mm (equivalent to approx. 28mm to 140mm in the 35mm format) to accommodate a wide range of scenes and subjects, including sweeping landscapes. They also provide other convenient shooting functions, such as a macro mode to capture dramatic close-up images from a minimum focusing distance of a mere one centimeter; an Intelligent Zoom function to extend the zoom range to approximately 36 times (equivalent to 1008mm in the 35mm format) without compromising image quality, for superior telephoto photography; and an interval shooting mode, which comes in handy for fixed-point observation. 8. Full HD movie recording for extended shooting of high-quality movies The WG-70 provides Full HD movie recording employing the H. 264 recording format. Users can capture high-quality, extended movie clips (1920 x 1080 pixels, 16: 9 proportions) at a frame rate of 30 frames per second. To add some creative touches to movie recording, they also feature a high-speed camera function**** for slow-motion playback of captured movie clips, and an interval movie function. A micro-HDMI terminal (Type D) is also provided on the camera body for simultaneous output of Full HD movie clips and sound to external audio-visual devices. 9. Triple anti-shake protection to prevent blurred images in all applications Pixel Track SR mechanism When recording still images, this advanced shake-reduction mechanism effectively compensates for camera shake by digitally processing affected images. Digital SR mode When the camera detects low-lighting conditions in still-image shooting, this mode automatically raises the sensitivity up to as high as ISO 6400, making it possible to use a higher shutter speed and effectively minimize the adverse effect of camera shake and subject shake when dealing with poor lighting conditions. Movie SR mode During movie recording, this mode effectively compensates for the misalignment of images caused by camera shake through the use of exclusive software to produce beautiful, blur-free movie clips. 10. 2. 7-inch LCD monitor with the Outdoor View Setting mode The WG-60 come equipped 2. 7-inch LCD monitor with horizontally extended 16: 9 proportions and approximately 230, 000 dots. The monitor’s AR (Anti-Reflection) coating minimizes annoying glare and reflections to assure a sharp, clear on-screen image even in the harsh sunshine often encountered during outdoor shooting. It also comes equipped with such convenient features as: the Outdoor View Setting mode, which easily sets the optimum monitor brightness level for a given lighting condition 11. Other features ・A range of WG-series mount accessories (optional) to accommodate diverse camera setups ・Two remote control receptors (one in front and another in the back) to widen signal coverage ・Macro stand (included) to maintain a minimum focusing distance of one centimeter to the subject during extended observation and shooting of macro images ・High-speed Face Detection function to capture as many as 32 faces in focus in approximately 0. 03 seconds (minimum); Smile Capture function to automatically release the shutter when the subject’s smile is detected ・Outdoor-friendly Style Watch function to display the time on the LCD monitor, using an extended push of the OK button when the camera’s power is turned off ・Delay-free, pushbutton start of the playback mode, using an extended push of the playback button ・Auto Picture mode to automatically select the most appropriate shooting mode from 16 different scene modes ・A choice of 12 digital filters

  • THE ALL-WEATHER ADVENTURE CAMERA: A rugged chassis you can rely on in the harshest conditions.
  • HIGH RESOLUTION WITH ALL THE MUST-HAVE FEATURES: With a high-performance image processing engine and a back-illuminated CMOS sensor boasting high optical efficiency and an effective 16 megapixel, the WG-70 takes low-noise photos with a wide dynamic range that look beautiful even as prints.
  • WATERPROOF 14M: With features that include uncompromising waterproofing - good for two hours of continuous use at a depth of 14 meters
  • UNDERWATER MODE: This mode uses white balance optimized for underwater photos, making colors appear more natural by adding reds that tend to get lost in photos taken under water.
  • FULL HD VIDEO: While the camera can of course record Full HD (16: 9) video at 30 fps, it also offers a High Speed Movie mode for recording slow-motion video and an Underwater Movie mode suited to underwater movie recording. Movie and Underwater Movie modes offer Movie SR (shake reduction), which can be used to reduce the effects of camera shake.
  • DIGITAL MICROSCOPE MODE: The WG-70’s Digital Microscope mode makes it easy to take impressive macro photographs that capture details that cannot be resolved by the naked eye. The six-LED Ring Light helps prevent blur by allowing faster shutter speeds.
  • CHOOSE FROM 25 SHOOTING MODES: The camera offers settings suited to every subject, including an “Auto Picture” mode that automatically identifies the subject type and chooses the appropriate mode.

Product features

Waterproof

Capture incredible underwater scenes at a depth of up to 14 meters for up to two hours giving you enough time to explore the the wonders of the ocean.

Shockproof

This camera can keep up with the challenges you set yourself. Its rugged design can withstand a fall of up to 1.6 meters.

Crushproof

With 100kg of crushproof protection, you can rely the WG-70 as your dependable travel companion even in the most extreme situations.

Freezeproof

Tackle the harshest environments. The Ricoh WG-70 will operate without compromise down to temperatures of -10° below zero.

The Perfect Smile

With smile mode activated, the picture will be taken automatically - you won't even have to press the shutter button. No more grumpy faces!

Capture Microscopic Detail

Make school projects fun and focus on detail that you never knew was there. This innovative feature lights up the 6 LED's around the lens allowing you to focus on minute details. With WG-70, the record image size can be selected from 12M, 5M, 4M, and 2M in 16:9 aspect.

Camera at work

The WG-70 features a tough chassis, enhanced crushproofing, and an easy-to-use design that lets you shoot without taking off your gloves. The ring light can be used for construction-site photos that clearly show cracks in concrete and other fine details.

Protect Your Camera

This optional silicon jacket gives the extra assurance against scraches and knock, to help keep your camera in the best condition.

Canon PowerShot ELPH 180 Digital Camera w/Image Stabilization and Smart AUTO Mode (Red)

Canon

Based on 2 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Make the most of special occasions with the Canon Powershot ELPH 180 HS Digital Camera. Capture your favorite moments in stunning 720p HD video. Plus, you won't get behind on the action with smart auto selects to find the proper settings. From the Manufacturer: Slim. Stylish. Simple. For those wanting a simple way to capture moments with family, friends and more, the slim, stylish PowerShot ELPH 180 camera has easy-to-use features to help create photos that are as stunning as you want. The 8x Optical Zoom lets you get close to the action, while the 20.0 Megapixel* CCD sensor with DIGIC 4+ Image Processor help produce vibrant, clear images to share or print. Take more than just still images, with the ability to record movies at 720p HD. Do not use organic solvents such as alcohol, benzine, or thinner to clean the product, Operating Temperature:32-104°F / 0-40°C.

From the Manufacturer

  • 8x Optical Zoom with Optical Image Stabilizer helps you capture images with flexibility and ease
  • 20.0 Megapixel CCD sensor combines with the DIGIC 4+ Image Processor to help deliver stunning image quality
  • 720p HD video capabilities. Product Dimensions(W x H x D):3.75 x 2.14 x 0.87 inches/95.2 x 54.3 x 22.1 mm
  • Smart AUTO intelligently selects the proper settings based on predefined shooting situations
  • Digital IS helps reduce the effect of camera shake and subject movement. Scene Modes such as Fisheye Effect, Toy Camera Effect and Monochrome provide creative freedom to capture your photos
  • Video Capture Resolution: Hd 720P
  • Optical Sensor Resolution: 12 Megapixels

User questions & answers

Question: Can i connect this camera to my computer with a usb
Answer: I have just purchased two of these (Elph 180). The first thing I noticed is that Canon has not improved the access door (battery/ sd card slot) in the many years since I had my first point& shoot Canon. (I have a canon rebel too - different story) The reason I am telling you this is that I urge you to buy a cable to download your shots, and clear the SD card from your camera. Every time you open and shut this little door, the weaker it becomes. Eventually you will be forced to tape the door shut to use the camera. I did this for years because I loved the camera. Finally I just got tired of it and bought the rebel. If the only time you have to open the door is to charge the battery, you will extend the usable life of the door HUGELY. As with most technology today, it's longevity depends on its weakest point. One of the two I purchased is for a 12 yr. old - I bought cables for both of us. My opinion: It's worth it because Canon still makes the best lenses.
Question: Does this have an automatic shutoff If I forget to turn it off
Answer: I don`t think so. But you`ll know if it`s on. When it`s on, the lens moves way out. When it`s off, it retracts, so the camera is flat. It would be very hard to forget to turn the camera off, or forget you left it on.
Question: Do you have to remove the battery from the camera in order to charge it
Answer: Does this camera come with a charger? It says it comes with a rechargeable battery but it isn’t saying anything about a charger. And from looking at other people’s comments I’m thinking it doesn’t come with a charger. So if not then what are you suppose to do cause it’s not regular batteries it’s the rectangle flat battery
Question: I notice the usb cable has to be purchased separately. does this camera require any special type of usb cable
Answer: The camera uses sd memory, so you dont need usb cable if your computer has a sd slot
Question: what kind of stand/tripod can you use this camera
Answer: Standard equipment will work with this camera , 1/4 inch tripod
Question: Is the camera suitable for professional use
Answer: Hello, it is not recommended for professional use. This is for entry-level users
Question: The camera is fixed focus it
Answer: Fixed focus, adjustment of focus is not supported. We recommend shooting at one meter away.
Question: Does the camera come with 2 batteries and a micro sd card
Answer: yes

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