5 Best Bridge Cameras With Optical Zoom in 2024

A DSLR or mirrorless camera is generally the preferred option for photographers. They offer the versatility of using various lenses based on the required focal length. However, such equipment generally requires a lot of investment since lenses can be expensive. On the other hand, a simple point-and-shoot won’t cut it for most pro users since they have a limited range of focal lengths. So, what’s the middle ground, you ask? Well, consider getting any of the best bridge cameras from the list below.

These bridge cameras are for beginners as well as professional photographers who want a portable yet capable camera that offers a long zoom range. So whether you want to record vlogs, click portraits, or snap that beautiful bird in the wild that’s a few feet away, here are the best bridge cameras with optical zoom you can buy. But before that –

• If you’re learning photography, consider picking up a full-frame camera for beginners.
• Want to play around with different lenses? A compact camera with interchangeable lenses can be a good option.
• Budding content creators — get a camera for YouTube for under $500.

1. Kodak Pixpro AZ528

• Sensor: 16MP
• Optical zoom: 52X

Needless to say, the Pixpro AZ528 is much larger and heavier compared to regular point-and-shoot cameras. However, that’s a compromise most people would be willing to make thanks to the huge focal length range. Kodak refers to it as Astro Zoom — giving you 52X zoom that allows you to capture heavenly bodies.

If you like capturing wildlife, you will appreciate the long-range ability of the Kodak AZ528. However, there are a few compromises you have to make considering the price point. For starters, the video resolution is limited to 1080p so it’s not the best for videos.

Additionally, the camera doesn’t capture a lot of light so the photos end up looking grainy and noisy — especially in low-light situations. But, if you majorly plan on clicking photos in broad daylight or of heavenly bodies like the moon, the Pixpro AZ528 is an excellent bang-for-the-buck camera according to user reviews.

2. Canon Powershot SX70

• Sensor: 20.3MP
• Optical zoom: 65X

Along with a higher megapixel count resulting in sharper photos, the Canon Poweshot SX70 gets 4K video recording capabilities. This makes it a capable camera even for content creators. The camera also offers higher zoom levels with up to 65X optical zoom capabilities. You can get a closer look at those beautiful craters on the moon!

The continuous shooting feature onboard helps you click perfect shots of moving subjects like a bird or an airplane in the sky. While the image quality certainly takes a hit at higher zoom levels, the SX70 is an excellent alternative to a DSLR with a large and heavy telephoto lens. The flip-up screen is the cherry on top since you can frame yourself for vlogs or even use the camera as a webcam with your computer.

3. Nikon Coolpix P950

• Sensor: 16MP
• Optical zoom: 83X

If you’re looking for the longest optical zoom range you can get on a compact bridge camera, your search ends here. The P950 offers up to 83X optical zoom which is insane for a camera this size. Combine this with the natural colors and the Nikon Coolpix P950 is one of the best bridge cameras for wildlife photography as per reviews.

Not only does it let you get as close as possible to your subject but the fast shutter speed means you end up capturing good-looking shots even if your subject is constantly in motion. Do note though that there’s no built-in stabilization so if you’re planning to click photos at long distances, it’s best to use a tripod or you might end up with shaky or blurry photos.

4. Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 II

• Sensor: 20.1MP
• Optical zoom: 16X

If videos are more important to you than still photos, you should consider getting the Panasonic Lumix FX1000 II. As per several users, the 4K video recording even at the max 16X zoom is impressive — thanks in large to Optical Image Stabilization or OIS. This is the tech found on most modern-day smartphones to make your videos stable.

OIS helps with videos and ensures your camera stays still when clicking photos. This is largely helpful, especially in low-light situations where even a little bit of shake can introduce blur in your photos. Apart from this, another major highlight of the FX1000 II is its large 1-inch sensor that lets in ample light. This makes it an excellent shooter in low light.

So, depending on your preference and style of shooting, you can decide between the Nikon P950 and the Panasonic FZ1000 II. If you prefer long-range zoom, go for the Nikon. But if you value stable videos and click a lot of pictures indoors or after sundown, the Panasonic is ideally a better option.

5. Sony Cyber‑Shot RX10 IV

• Sensor: 20.1MP
• Optical zoom: 25X

If you want the low-light performance from the FX1000 II but with the ability to capture distant birds and animals, take a look at the Sony Cyber-Shot RX10 IV. While it’s considerably more expensive, you’re paying for two main things here — the superior Zeiss glass and Sony’s incredible autofocus.

The faster autofocus speeds are helpful when capturing moving subjects. On paper, the difference between the 16X optical zoom on the Panasonic FX1000 II and the 25X zoom on the Sony RX10 IV may not seem as significant. But, the longer focal length of the Sony provides a lot more reach than the numbers suggest. However, it’s up to you to decide the value provided by the additional zoom — and if it’s worth paying more than double the price of the Panasonic camera.

Zoom All the Way In

If you don’t want to go all out with a camera that has an interchangeable lens system but don’t want to settle for an underpowered point-and-shoot either, any of the best bridge cameras from the list above will serve you well. You also get the added bonus of not having to invest in multiple lenses and carry them around everywhere.