Bridge cameras are halfway between hybrid cameras and compact models. They are easily recognizable thanks to their large zooms. From a technical point of view, they combine the best qualities of the two types mentioned above, which makes them very versatile. Discover the best bridge cameras in our comparison.
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Our selection
"The Panasonic Lumix DC FZ82 is a bridge camera that combines versatility, simplicity and advanced features to help aspiring photographers get more out of their…"
"The Kodak PixPro AZ422 is described as a bridge camera, marking the transition from a basic model to a DSLR or mirrorless camera. As such,…"
"This is the fourth update of the very good Sony RX10 bridge camera. The Sony RX10 IV benefits from notable improvements in the sensor to…"
"The Sony DSC-HX400V is one of the best bridge cameras from Sony. It features an efficient zoom, a brand new sensor coupled with the latest…"
The Panasonic Lumix DC FZ82 is a bridge camera that combines versatility, simplicity and advanced features to help aspiring photographers get more out of their smartphone or compact DPP.
247 £ on AmazonThe Panasonic Lumix DC FZ82 is a bridge camera that features a high-sensitivity 18.1MP CMOS sensor, as well as a 60x zoom lens that provides an incredible focal length; the equivalent of a 20-1200mm ultra-wide angle. It features hybrid POWER OIS (Optical Image Stabilizer) technology with active mode to prevent image blur when the camera is moving while shooting..
The MOS sensor greatly increases the camera's burst shooting options. Other notable features include a decent 1170,000-dot EVF and a 3-inch touchscreen LCD. This model can capture 4K video in MP4 format. The 100 Mbps bit rate is impressive, but recording time is limited to 15 minutes.
The Kodak PixPro AZ422 is described as a bridge camera, marking the transition from a basic model to a DSLR or mirrorless camera. As such, it offers many features at a competitive price.
141 £ on AmazonThe Kodak PixPro AZ422 is a great 20MP camera available at a very affordable price. This camera comes with two types of zoom functions: 42x optical zoom and 4x digital zoom. The focal length range of the length is from 4.3 to 180.6 mm and coupled with a 20.16MP sensor, the camera can also take high-quality close-up photos. It is worth noting that the lens of the Pixpro AZ422 is equipped with optical image stabilization (OIS).
The camera is capable of capturing videos up to HD format at 30 fps. You can record a video of up to 29 min in length. One of the most impressive features of the Pixpro AZ422 is its built-in editing capabilitiesOne of the most impressive features of the Pixpro AZ422 is its built-in editing features, including red-eye reduction and skin softening, among others.
This is the fourth update of the very good Sony RX10 bridge camera. The Sony RX10 IV benefits from notable improvements in the sensor to offer a premium image quality, at the level of the very best SLR cameras.
1 401 £ on AmazonThe Sony DSC-RX10 IV is a high-end bridge camera with a zoom lens and a 20MP BSI-CMOS sensor. This new sensor brings phase detection autofocus to the RX10 series for the first time, adding depth awareness that is important for focusing on distant subjects. The camera is also faster than its predecessor and can shoot at 24 fps with AF and auto exposure.
The Sony RX10 IV is able to capture 4K video at 24 or 30 fps. If you want, you can capture Full HD video at 24, 30, 60 or 120 fps. In addition to professional-grade video profiles, the RX10 IV supports an external microphone. It's all wrapped up in a rugged, waterproof body with a crisp electronic viewfinder and tilting touchscreen LCD.
The Sony DSC-HX400V is one of the best bridge cameras from Sony. It features an efficient zoom, a brand new sensor coupled with the latest Sony Bionz X processor and a GPS receiver.
303 £ on AmazonAny specific needs?
The best bridge camera in 2021
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| TOP OF THE TOP | CHEAP | TOP OF THE LINE | EXCELLENT | |
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| OUR SELECTION |
Panasonic Lumix DC FZ82
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Kodak Pixpro AZ422
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Sony RX10 IV
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Sony DSC-HX400V
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The Panasonic Lumix DC FZ82 is a bridge camera that combines versatility, simplicity and advanced features to help aspiring photographers get more out of their smartphone or compact DPP.
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The Kodak PixPro AZ422 is described as a bridge camera, marking the transition from a basic model to a DSLR or mirrorless camera. As such, it offers many features at a competitive price.
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This is the fourth update of the very good Sony RX10 bridge camera. The Sony RX10 IV benefits from notable improvements in the sensor to offer a premium image quality, at the level of the very best SLR cameras.
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The Sony DSC-HX400V is one of the best bridge cameras from Sony. It features an efficient zoom, a brand new sensor coupled with the latest Sony Bionz X processor and a GPS receiver.
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Sensor
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18.1MP High Sensitivity CMOS
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CMOS 20 Mpx
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20MP stacked BSI-CMOS
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CMOS Exmor R 20.4 MP
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Lens
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Lumix DC Vario F/2.8-5.9
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Astro Zoom F/2.6-6
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F/2.4-4 stabilized zoom lens
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Zeiss F/2.8-6.3
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Video resolution (maximum)
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4K 2160p
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HD 720p
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4K 2160p
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Full HD 1080p
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Zoom
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60x optical zoom / 4x digital zoom
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42x optical zoom / 4x digital zoom
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25x optical zoom / 100x digital zoom
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50x optical zoom / 200x digital zoom
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Wi-Fi
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Yes
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No
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Yes
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Yes
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Digital cameras in general record images thanks to an electronic sensor. On this point, the rule is quite simple: the larger the sensor, the better the image quality. Indeed, a large sensor allows you to play with the depth of field and have a nice background blur. It also helps to manage the colors and contrasts, but also to ensure the quality of the shots even in low light. Note that compacts generally have smaller sensors than bridges.
On all digital cameras, there are a variable number of creative shooting modes accessible via a dial. They can be manual, automatic or semi-automatic depending on the model. The more modes offered, the more you can customize your shots. As an example, you can have a manual setting of the aperture and the speed or various predefined automatic settings corresponding to different shooting situations such as creative auto, portrait, landscape, sport, night or video modes.
The compact and bridge cameras are equipped with screens that play different roles. For example, they allow you to navigate easily through the menus, but also to focus easily or to view the pictures you have taken. For more convenience, it is preferable that the screen is large enough and touch-sensitive to facilitate navigation. Also the models with multidirectional screens, vertically and horizontally are the most popular, because they guarantee a better framing, but also they allow to multiply the original angles of view.
The manufacturers often boast about the zoom power of their cameras and today, this parameter can reach up to 40x on compacts, even 60x or 83x on bridges. The point of the zoom power is to take pictures and not miss any details, even when the subject is far away. Manufacturers often provide huge figures for their digital zoom, but it is more interesting to find out about the optical zoom of the cameras. Also, be aware that the bigger the camera's zoom, the more it will require a good stabilizer to avoid misframing and blurred images.
All compact and bridge cameras normally shoot in full HD. For a compact, Full HD 50p/60p is already not bad, but if you are demanding in quality, opt instead for 4K video which allows you to take movies in very high definition.
The Bridge camera has become very popular due to its performance, light weight and also its practicality. It's easy to hold thanks to its large body, which allows your fingers to fit naturally on the keys. It is a hybrid camera that combines the features and characteristics of a compact camera and those of an SLR camera.
Equipped with a non-removable fixed zoom with high power, this type of camera can be used in both manual and automatic mode. The bridge camera consists of zoom, sensor, electronic viewfinder, brightness and diaphragm, optical zoom. In general, the standard sensor of this camera is 1/2.33 inches. But there are also models with a large sensor of 2 / 3 inches.
For better shooting, this camera offers users the ability to access various parameters such as shutter speed, white balance, focus, aperture, etc.. The light input, which varies according to the zoom, can be adjusted through the diaphragm. Indeed, the weaker the light, the more the diaphragm is open. In addition, they have access to other interesting features through the buttons and knobs.
Regarding its mode of operation, some use battery power while others operate on rechargeable battery. This second choice is often the most adopted, but to avoid running out of energy, you should not forget to bring an independent charger, especially if you are traveling.
The bridge camera has a non-interchangeable lens, but offers optimal brightness. A bridge camera has the same qualities as an SLR. Its size and weight are more similar to a small SLR and its sensor is generally smaller. Very practical, the bridge camera shows a versatility. Indeed, you can use it to photograph objects very close or very far away, because its zoom range is quite wide, and this goes hand in hand with its lightness.
However, the bridge camera only has an electronic viewfinder, which is less comfortable than an optical viewfinder. On the other hand, this type of APN has a small sensor and this can affect the image quality obtained, especially in low light. In short, this APN will be better suited to amateur photographers, who seek versatility and want to avoid the problems associated with interchangeable lenses.
The king of digital cameras, the SLR offers fast and accurate autofocus. The SLR camera is the best possible option for photographers who want to capture moving subjects, especially in sports, dance, etc. This DSLR is very convenient due to its extremely fast reaction time. The pictures you get are clearer compared to other cameras.
The size and weight of the DSLR may hinder its use, not to mention the advanced features, which may not be within the reach of the beginner or casual photographer. Basically, you'll have a hard time taking it on vacation to make memories! Moreover, it is also very difficult to change its settings because of its size.
Choose the SLR camera if you want to take continuous shots or capture moving subjects. If you want to get the combination of SLR and hybrid, with the added simplicity, the bridge camera will suit you perfectly.
For image quality
Compact and bridge cameras share many common points, among which a good sensitivity that can go up to 6,400 or even 12,800 ISO. This allows them to store light and therefore take pictures in low light conditions or when the subject is moving. Also, some expert models offer an excellent zoom capable of enlarging the image up to 50x, which is perfect for getting quality shots, especially when the subject is far away. This allows you to capture more detail. The most powerful cameras have additional options such as PASM modes, exposure compensation, ISO adjustment, RAW recording and a flash hotshoe.
For ease of handling and simplicity of use
Unlike SLRs, which are known for their imposing size and their large footprint, compact cameras, and bridges to a lesser extent, guarantee ergonomics and ease of use that are much appreciated by amateur photographers. They are both quite simple to use, with a very pleasant grip because of their weight and size not very important. These characteristics make them discreet equipment and particularly suitable for mobile use.
Bridges have many features that are easily accessible thanks to the presence of buttons and dials, which is perfect for beginners who want to improve their skills by using cameras with functions similar to those of SLRs. Similarly, among compact cameras, there are ultra-compact models weighing less than 150g, which can be easily stored in a pocket.
For the quality of the screen
Another feature of compacts and bridges is that they both have screens. These devices help reduce the appearance of glare and make framing easier. Some models have touch screens that make it very easy to take pictures, to view them perfectly, but also to navigate the menus better. You can even focus by simply clicking on the subject.
For additional options
With a compact camera or a mid-range or high-end bridge, you can benefit from a number of additional options that can be very useful depending on the intended use. We can mention among others the video in full HD or even 4K, but also the recording in raw RAW format which gives the possibility to retouch the colors or to expose the pictures on computer before saving them in a more readable format.
For sports or wildlife photographers, the burst mode of these cameras is quite developed and allows to take up to 10 frames / s on some models, which multiplies the chances of having quality images, especially when the subject is moving.
For advanced wireless connectivity
Most compact and bridge cameras have Wi-Fi connectivity that allows you to connect them to a smartphone to remotely trigger the shot using an app, or to transfer the images taken to a phone, computer, cloud service, or even a printer or TV connected to the same network. Thanks to Wifi, you can even send images directly by email or publish them on social networks. Some devices even include a browser, which allows you to search the Internet directly on the screen.
How to stabilize the image?
Bridge cameras have a feature that stabilizes the image. Don't forget to activate this function before taking your pictures, as it reduces blur and helps to frame better when shooting at long distances. You can get good pictures even without a tripod. Image stabilization is not one of the default options on bridge cameras, you have to go into the menu and turn it on manually.
Make good use of your optical zoom.
Bridge cameras offer a choice between digital zoom and optical zoom. Optical zoom uses the lens, while digital zoom uses the image sensor to enlarge it. Digital zoom reduces image quality, so you should only use it if you need additional magnification in addition to optical zoom.
Use a tripod.
A
tripod is essential if you want to be successful with your long-distance photos. The tripod can be very useful if you are shooting in low light. In addition, it is quite light, easy to carry and will not add much weight to the camera.
Protect your camera.
The
modern digital camera is solidly built.However, it is safer to buy a good quality dust and waterproof bag to protect your investment
.
Don't run out of storage space for your photos.
Take along
some extra SD cards in case you need more space to store your photos
.
A bridge camera is a type of camera that has more features than most compact cameras. It is called a bridge camera because it acts as a sort of bridge between a compact camera and a more feature-rich camera such as a DSLR.
When it comes to travel photography in particular, a bridge camera is a great option because it is suitable for different types of photographic situations with a single lens. When we travel, weight is often an issue and packing a mirrorless camera or DSLR with a range of lenses is not always a practical choice.
One of the best reasons to invest in a bridge camera is the generous range of features. They have many more features and settings than you'll find on a standard compact digital camera, and this can help you take better pictures.
The bridge's manual controls are often the main reason to buy them, so don't hesitate to take advantage of them. The controls are on convenient dials, which means you don't have to dig through the menu to find it. If you want to take a long distance shot without blur, buying a tripod is a good solution, it won't add too much to the size and weight of the bridge camera.
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