Cameras under $500

Premium quality meets stylish portability in the form of the Olympus PEN E-P5. The first thing you'll notice about this compact camera is the classic silver design that carries the essence of the iconic Olympus PEN cameras. Not only have the materials, texture and dials been made to look great, but also optimized for top-notch convenience and comfort at all times. When it comes to photo quality, the PEN E-P5 delivers high-resolution images and Full HD 1080p video thanks to the Four Thirds 16.1MP Live MOS sensor and TruePic VI image processor. The high-speed performance can be felt with the 1/8000 mechanical shutter that allows you to freeze the action and capture those unmissable moments. If you feel the need for more options, the blazing sequential shooting capture 9 frames per second, while the tracking autofocus system works in tandem to maintain complete clarity throughout. When it's time to share those memories, the PEN E-P5 offers instant access to your smartphone thanks to the convenient WiFi icon on the 3-inch LCD touchscreen.

If you want a camera powerful enough to can capture incredible photo and video, yet compact enough to bring just about anywhere, look no further than the Olympus OM-D E-M10. Thanks to the Four Thirds 16.1MP Live MOS sensor and TruePic VII image processor, this mirrorless camera delivers outstanding photographs that can reach up to 4608 x 3456 pixels. This high-speed performance extends to the continuous shooting rate that's capable of capturing up to 8 frames per second. When you want to switch to video, rest assured that the E-M10 is able to record movies in Full HD 1080p with the same extraordinary detail and accurate colour rendition. Designed to keep pace with life itself, the compact camera body is sleek and slender for an all-around effortless carry. The stylish design is built out of metal and features meticulously engineered parts for a camera that looks as great as the photos it takes.

Portable and easy-to-use, the Canon EOS M100 lets you keep the focus on staying present for life's special moments. This mirrorless camera is led by a 24.2MP CMOS sensor and DIGIC 7 image processor to deliver high-quality images with vibrant colours and clear details in an impressive maximum resolution of 6000 x 4000. When it comes to video, the EOS M100 can effortlessly record in Full HD 1080p at 60 frames per second for outstanding quality with slow motion capabilities. The Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus system boasts a wide area and intelligent tracking to precisely obtain focus that stays locked onto the subject, even if it's in motion. This fast autofocus extends to the 3-inch LCD touchscreen display so you focus by simply tapping on the monitor. Considering its robust capabilities, it's easy to appreciate the compact design and lightweight frame that weighs just 302g for an effortless carry throughout the day. Effortlessly connect to your smart device thanks to built-in WiFi capabilities and bluetooth pairing, so you can instantly share your photos and videos with friends and family. Capture the joy of life with the Canon EOS M100.

Looking for a camera that's durable enough to enjoy everyday outdoor adventures yet doesn't compromise on quality? The search ends with the Ricoh WG-30. Wherever life takes you, rest assured that the high-resolution 16MP CMOS sensor is ready to deliver excellent photographs in sharp detail and vibrant colour, even when you're shooting at night, underwater or landscapes. Think the moment is better suited to video? The WG-30 can record Full HD 1080p movies at 60 frames per second, so you can look back on your highlight reel in all its glory. Not only is the compact body easy to carry around at just 192g, but it also offers a heavy-duty, airtight construction that can easily survive any extreme conditions and harsh demands you may encounter. When you want to take that unforgettable group photo, take advantage of the waterproof remote smartphone that connects via WiFi and allows for convenient shooting from distance.

Whether you find yourself capturing wildlife, covering formal events or taking portraits, the Samsung WB1100F enables you to create brilliant images with its all-around versatility. Led by a 16.2MP CCD sensor, this DSLR camera is capable of delivering high-resolution images that can reach up to 4608 x 3456 pixels, as well as HD 720p video. From awe-inspiring landscapes to busy cityscapes, the impressive 22.3mm ultra-wide angle lens means you're always able to cover a whole-horizon field of view, whereas the superb 35x Optical Zoom means that distance will never again stand in the way of you and the shot you want. Elsewhere, the 3-inch LCD monitor automatically detects your surrounding lighting conditions and adjusts the brightness for optimal viewing while shooting or during playback. Built with a emphasis on functionality and control, the ergonomic camera body and display are designed to give you a firm grip for steady shots and easy handling.

Designed around travel needs, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS100 packs robust performance into an ultraportable design. The imaging capabilities begin with the outstanding 20.1MP MOS sensor that delivers high-resolution photos with up to 5472 x 3648 pixels. When it comes to video, this compact camera is able to record in stunning 4K resolution so you can enjoy life's greatest moments soaked in dazzling colour, detail and clarity. Elsewhere, this versatile point-and-shoot features a 10x Optical Zoom that allow you to always be in the centre of action, whereas the 5-axis correction suppresses any blurring caused by unwanted handheld shaking. Whether you're adventuring off-the-grid through tropical paradises or simply weekend tripping with the family, you'll certainly appreciate the compact nature of Lumix DMC-ZS100. Featuring a sleek and slender frame, the camera hardly takes up any space in your backpack or luggage, allowing you to pack lighter than ever for maximum convenience when you're on the move.

Powerful, flexible and compact, the Canon EOS Rebel T6 is the DSLR was designed to meet the expectations of photographers and videographers who are constantly on-the-go. With the EOS Rebel T6 in hand, you can take amazing photographs thanks to the high-resolution 18MP CMOS sensor and DIGIC IV image processor. Whether it's precious once-in-a-lifetime facial reaction or fast-moving athletes, up to 3 fps continuous shooting is made possible thanks to the blazing processing speed. This DSLR camera doesn't skip a beat when it comes to movies either. Switch to Video Mode to record movies in Full HD 1080p at 30 fps. Whether it's photo or video, the 9-point phase-detection autofocus system allows for fast tracking and accurate focusing even in challenging lighting conditions. The 3-inch LCD monitor serves as a means for live view shooting, image playback and menu navigation, conveniently optimizing the screen's brightness to your surrounding environment. Considering its professional-level capabilities the slender body of the EOS Rebel T6 is an impressive feat of engineering that reduces your overall burden while shooting and travelling.

The Ricoh Theta V was designed to provide you with a seamless 360º video and audio experience with the convenience of a tiny form factor. This unique camcorder can record immersive 360º video in full 4K resolution thanks to a 1/2.3" 14MP CMOS sensor. Building on this, the 4-channel microphone allows for unrivalled spatial audio that captures high-quality audio from four directions. With the Theta V, you're also equipped to take superb still images that boast a maximum resolution of 5376 x 2688. Elsewhere, the THETA app enables you to preview your footage before shooting, live stream to platforms such as YouTube Live and perform a variety of other functions, and with the swipe of your finger rotate the 360° image in any direction to see it from different angles. At just 121g, this handheld camcorder makes for an effortless carry for both short and long shooting days, whereas the compact body frame can easily fit in your pocket.

Built to withstand the most extreme adventures, the Olympus Stylus Tough TG-4 is always prepared to capture your greatest achievements. From trekking the highest slopes to snorkelling in the most beautiful beaches, this compact camera is not phased by difficult conditions and environments. The Stylus Tough TG-4 is waterproof to depths of 15m, crushproof to 100kgf, shockproof to 2.1m and dustproof. When it comes to quality, the sophisticated 16MP BSI CMOS sensor delivers exceptional images with a maximum resolution of 4608 x 3456, meaning you can relive your highlight reel with the brightest colours and sharpest details. The compact camera can also record video in Full HD 1080p resolution at a stunning 240 frames per second for ultrasmooth slow motion. Between the Snapshot, Wide, Macro and Underwater modes, the camera has several custom presets that allow you to thrive in just about any outdoor situation you find yourself in. Resilient and capable, the Olympus Stylus Tough TG-4 is the perfect adventure companion.

Pocketable and lightweight, the Nikon COOLPIX S7000 is the handheld camera that's always ready to capture those unforgettable moments, no matter where life takes you. Thanks to a robust 16MP CMOS sensor, this compact camera is able to deliver excellent photos that reach a maximum resolution of 4608 x 3456. Aspiring filmmakers will enjoy recording video in Full HD 1080p at up to 60 frames per second with a built-in stereo microphone, whereas you can review and relive your best moments on the 3-inch LCD display. The 20x Optical Zoom and 4-Axis Image Stabilization system work in tandem to ensure you're able to capture those spontaneous moments, near or far, and that your footage is rock steady in the process. The most impressive feat of it all, however, is that these photo and video capabilities are housed within a sleek and slender design that weighs just 165g. Whether it's a weekend spent abroad and the trip of a lifetime, the COOLPIX S7000 takes up next to no space in your baggage. The dedicated WiFi button provides convenient access to sharing settings, while NFC support makes image transfer to your devices simple and straightforward.