The Best Superzoom Cameras of 2023

Some superzooms ape DSLR-style controls and features, hoping to capture users who want the pro look without pesky complications like changing lenses. The PowerShot SX540 HS isn’t one of those superzooms. It’s a straightforward, simple camera that just happens to have a DSLR-esque grip and a big 50x zoom lens.

Inside you’ll find a 20-megapixel CMOS sensor, a speedy Digic 6 processor, and Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity for easy file sharing. The SX540 HS can shoot full HD video at 60 fps, which makes it a credible dual threat. But there are downsides: The screen doesn’t flip out, which we found annoying during video shooting, and the build quality wasn't the most convincing. Still, at $399.99, it’s pretty reasonably priced.

The Nikon CoolPix P1000 shares a lot of DNA with a DSLR. It’s big and heavy, and it features an articulating LCD screen. But what sets it apart from a beginner DSLR is that it offers an incredible zoom range of 24-3,000mm, allowing you to take photos of landscapes and get an up close look at distant subjects. This kind of versatility makes Nikon’s camera one of the most impressive superzoom models available.

The CoolPix P1000 packs plenty of other features, like RAW image support, 4K video recording, and the ability to shoot seven frames per second. Nikon’s superzoom also supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, so you can easily send images to your other devices and then share them on social media. All in all, the CoolPix P1000 offers the kind of features and zoom range that you want from a good superzoom camera.

Canon’s PowerShot SX70 HS is a prime example of why a bridge camera is a good option even today. It features a lens that offers an ultra-wide view and a 65x zoom range, the equivalent of 1,365mm when zoomed out. And it produces vivid, detailed images in a compact body, making it an excellent option for taking out on the trail. The PowerShot SX70 HS also offers an optical stabilization system, which steadies images and videos at wider angles.

In addition to extensive zoom capabilities, a compact design, and fast burst shooting, Canon’s PowerShot SX70 HS is a solid pick because it can shoot 4K video at 30 fps. It also features an articulating LCD, allowing you to get more creative with your shots. The viewfinder is also sharp and bright, making Canon’s bridge model a solid camera for pictures of family, wildlife, and landscapes.

With a large one-inch sensor, 24 fps continuous shooting, and optical image stabilization, the Sony Cyber-Shot RX10 IV is one of the most powerful superzoom cameras. It features a 24-600mm zoom lens that’s excellent for various scenarios and 315 phase-detection autofocus points. This covers approximately 65 percent of the frame, ensuring you always hit focus, whether you’re taking pictures of a child’s basketball game or wildlife at your local park.

We also like the Cyber-Shot RX10 IV because it features simple controls and a big, bright LCD screen. The design is also weather-sealed, giving you enough protection to use in wet or dusty environments. While the Cyber-Shot RX10 IV is one of the most robust bridge cameras you can buy and includes a host of high-end features, it’s pretty expensive. Still, you won’t be disappointed by the camera’s grand design and fantastic image quality.

The Panasonic Lumix FZ80 is a simple superzoom camera that’s affordable and offers some nice bells and whistles, including Wi-Fi, 4K video capture, and a touch LCD. It also features a long 60x zoom range, with an ultra-wide perspective that goes to an extreme 1,200mm when fully zoomed. This extensive range makes it easy to reach subjects that are far away, which is why bridge cameras can be great for vacations.

One of the highlights of the Lumix FZ80 is its 20mm equivalent lens, which is nice and wide for everyday use and excellent for landscape photography. Unfortunately, the camera features a fixed LCD panel, unlike the vari-angle LCDs offered by other options on this list. A fixed LCD panel may be more challenging to get creative with your shots. However, the fixed LCD may be fine if you use the Lumix FZ80 as a simple point-and-shoot.