Best Compact Cameras for Low Light

In its most basic definition, photography is all about capturing light. This is why the lower the amount of light in a scene is, the more difficult it is for a camera to get a decent image quality. Fortunately, technology has been moving fast in the improvement department.

While you would still get the best image quality in low light scenarios with a DSLR camera, compact cameras are now capable of rendering almost the same level of quality. In fact, some compact cameras have great apertures that they are capable of capturing a lot of light even in limited settings. With all these in mind, here are the best compact cameras available for your consideration.

Best Point-and-Shoot Camera

Imagine a camera that can almost be at par with the performance of a DSLR model and can easily fit in your pocket. This is exactly what the Canon PowerShot G9 X is all about. It boasts a 1-inch sensor, just like its potential rival, the Sony RX100 IV. The difference lies in the price; the latter is much more expensive. It doesn’t hurt that it looks gorgeous as well.

In terms of performance, the G9 X isn’t at all bad. It can shoot at up to 6fps, or 4.3fps with autofocus, and has both WiFi and NFC capabilities. Its 28-84mm lens offers max aperture of f/2-4.9, enough to give you fairly decent images when you’re doing photography at night. Overall, this point-and-shoot camera is a great choice for casual users who want something more than what their smartphones can offer.

Professional Compact Camera

The Sony Cybershot RX1/R has changed the landscape of compact cameras when it first came out in the market. Many professional photographers were mindblown at how it performs so well in low light conditions. It boasts a 24-megapixel, full-frame image sensor, which had traditionally been reserved for high-end professional DSLRs. The advantage of having such sensor is that it offers much better image quality, better low light performance, greater dynamic range, and greater control over depth of field. Simply put, full-frame sensors ddelivers better image quality even in the dark.

Its metal chassis has the heftiness and solid feel that you would expect from paying a large amount of money. It is also littered with buttons and control dials, which let you customize a number of things to suit your own shooting needs. Additionally, it can shoot at ISO 6400 and above without breaking a sweat, and it can handle mixed lighting conditions. All in all, this is one you shouldn’t miss at all, especially when you have the money to splurge.

Budget Compact Camera

If you’re on a budget but still want to get the image quality that would impress even when taken in low light, then check out the Fujifilm X30. One of its key selling point is its retro design that is a reminiscence of old cameras. It is also a well-built compact camera that shows no flex or movement in its chassis thanks to the die-cast magnesium alloy top and base plates and machined control dials. But that’s not the only thing this camera has to boast about. Behind its hood is a 12 megapixel 2/3-type X-Trans CMOS II sensor with built-in Phase Detection pixels.

The X30 is equipped with an ultra-fast hybrid AF system that enables it  to achieve a focus lock in as little as 0.06 second. Shutter lag is virtually non-existent on this Fujifilm offering; so once you have set the focus, you’ll never miss the moment. The LCD screen can also now be tilted up and down, although not enough to allow you to take a selfie. Finally, this camera features built-in wi-fi connectivity. Install the FUJIFILM Camera Remote App and you can transfer your pictures immediately to a smartphone or tablet PC and then edit and share them as you wish, transfer stills and video onto the camera, and embed GPS information in your shots from your smartphone. You can also control the camera remotely.

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