What's the best compact camera with a long zoom range and high resolution under $500?

James S.
CamerasLenses Expert

Musician, photographer that's been playing and snapping for 10 years! These are my two greatest passions! Let's chat!

 

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Shopper conversation with James S. on August 05, 2016

James S.
Hi there! How are you? I'm James. Do you have any questions about cameras? Or how about questions pertaining to lenses? How can I help you today?
hi - looking for a small lightweight camera to take on safari. want a great zoom and good mega pixels. can i get that with a small point and shoot or do i need to to the next level?
James S.
You can, certainly, but what is your budget?
under $500
possible?
James S.
Yeah, that's possible. Let me show you one.
k
James S.
This is probably your top pic for that budget. I'd also recommend getting a cheap monopod to help with image stabilization, so you don't get that blur at high zoom.
k i'll check it out thanks!
James S.
Awesome!
do you know the photo storage capability that comes with it?
James S.
You need an SD card. Luckily we have a free accessory bundle that includes one!
haha of course! i have one from an elph. will that work?
James S.
Yeah, SD cards are generally universal.
great. 4GB. holds a lot i think?
James S.
Yeah, it's a decent amount for a point and shoot. :-)
great. thanks.
James S.
Thank you!
if i wanted to go smaller, what do you suggest?
James S.
Well, the problem with smaller is you end up loosing that awesome zoom.
You might not end up being able to zoom in on the animals you'll be seeing.
i know... just thinking i'd really something i can fit in my pocket... not realistic?
James S.
Hmm. Let me see.
This could do it, but it's also more expensive.
ok i'll check it out. thanks!
James S.
Of course!
What do you think? :-)
Hey, it looks like it's actually on sale right now.
It's not currently available though, so when are you going on your trip?
just saw that. next week! nothing like waiting till the last minute
James S.
hahaha, fair enough.
really like the look of the powershot sx720
small but powerful
James S.
Absolutely, but it might not be available in time for your trip.
This one is from the same line and available now.
It has a 30x zoom.