Cameras under $300

Taking inspiration from the human eye, the Samsung EC-EX1 is the versatile point-and-shoot that's great for everyday photography. Led by a 10MP CCD sensor and DRIMe III image processor, this compact camera is able to deliver excellent still images that boast vivid colours and sharp details, regardless of lighting conditions. When you want to play with the depth of field, the impressive F1.8 lens delivers a wide range of aperture steps that allows you blur the background of your images while keeping the focus on your subjects. Between the built-in flash, 3x Optical Zoom and intelligent image stabilizer, the across-the-board features ensure that you have full creative freedom to get the shot you want during life's greatest moments. When framing, composing and shooting, you'll appreciate the convenient functionality and intuitive placement of the Front Wheel Key and Dual Dial, which give you the flexibility to adjust your settings in a split second.

Designed with convenience and flexibility in mind, the Canon VIXIA HF R80 is ready for life's unforgettable moments at a moment's notice. Whether you're travelling internationally or enjoying family outings, you'll certainly appreciate the slender and compact body that's easy to carry bring around. This handheld camera is able to capture videos in full HD resolution so you can enjoy those memories in lifelike detail and dazzling colour. The VIXIA HF R80 also boasts Canon's impressive 57x Advanced Zoom that allows you to capture every moment at long-range distances. Whether you're walking or zooming in from afar, the outstanding SuperRange Optical Image Stabilizer drastically reduces shaky and unsteady footage. Outfitted with its own 16GB of internal memory, the camera can supports up to 6 hours of recording time. The 3-inch LCD display features touch capabilities and an easy-to-use interface for adjusting your settings on-the-go. Using the free Camera Connect app, you're able to record remotely from your compatible smart device and upload them directly to share with family and friends.

With a strong emphasis on simplicity and portability, the Canon LEGRIA HF R806 is a low maintenance camera that's always ready to capture the big moments. When it comes to video quality, the camera delivers full HD resolution at a maximum of 50 frames per second. There are also a wealth of impressive technologies, such as the DIGIC DV4, that allow the handheld camera to thrive in low light environments. Whether you find yourself in the back room of a graduation ceremony or watching a sporting event from the bleachers, the 57x Advanced Zoom lens allows you to steadily capture footage from a distance, whereas the intuitive Image Stabilizer minimizes any shake and blur in the process. These video capabilities are housed within a featherweight design that's comfortable to carry around for extended periods of time and compact enough to fit into your suitcase. Flipping out from the side of the frame, the built-in LCD display features touchscreen controls for convenient playback. If you want to dabble into your creative side, you can enjoy a range of cinematic filters for enhanced drama, as well as other thoughtful features such as Baby Mode, which allows you to be fully present for those key moments.

Designed to be both proficient and travel-friendly, the Samsung WB50F is the compact point-and-shoot that's always ready at a moment's notice. Weighing a mere 157g, this handheld camera boasts a lightweight design that you'll appreciate when you're on the move. Not only is the WB50F easy to keep by your side through all your journeys and memories, but it's also compact enough that it takes up next to no space in your baggage. When it comes to image quality, the 1/2.3"" 16.2MP CCD sensor delivers noise-free photographs that reach up to 4608 x 3456 pixels. Think the moment is best-suited for video? The WB50F is capable of recording clips in HD 720p at 30 frames per second. When you want to frame your shot or review playback, the 3-inch LCD display provides excellent contrast and colour reproduction for crystal-clear viewing and brightness in all environments. Elsewhere, the 12x Optical Zoom, image stabilization system and 24mm wide-angle lens means that you're equipped with an impressive array of tools that allow you to always get the shot you want in full detail.

Simple, proficient and sophistication, the Kodak PIXPRO AZ652 is bridge camera that's always ready to tackle whatever the day brings. Fitted with a high-resolution 20MP BSI CMOS sensor, the PIXPRO AZ652 delivers outstanding image quality that brings moments to life in full colour, detail and clarity. Whether you need extra-large printouts or simply need to crop and zoom, you can rest assured that quality will never be an issue with this camera by your side. When your subjects are full of energy and in rapid motion, you'll appreciate the multi-burst shooting that can capture stills in up to 5 frames per second. When it comes to filming movies, the PIXPRO AZ652 is able to record video in Full HD 1080p. Thanks to an extraordinary 65x Optical Zoom, this camera offers boundless opportunities for close-ups, even when you find yourself far away from the action. Not only does the 3-inch LCD monitor provide convenient access to your settings, playback and menu, but the durable swivel enables you to capture those shots from unconventional angles.

Equal parts proficient and portable, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS60 is the perfect camera for photographers and videographers who are constantly on the move. Outfitted with a hard-working 18.1MP MOS sensor, this compact camera is able to deliver stunning images that boast a maximum resolution of 4896 x 3672 pixels, as well as immersive videos in dazzling 4K quality. Whether you're travelling remote landscapes or trekking through busy streets, the impressive 30x Leica DC Vario-Elmarit zoom allows you to truly capture everything when you're away from the action. This is complemented nicely by the powerful 5-axis image stabilization that ensures steady shooting with minimal shake at all times. This powerful imaging power is packed within an ultraslim design that you won't even notice when you slip into your bag or luggage. Elsewhere, the camera has both a Live View Finder and touchscreen LCD monitor that allow you to effortless review and navigate, even in the brightest lighting conditions. Topped off in a classic silver and black finish, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS60 is the ideal point-and-shoot camera for travellers.