10 Best Bridge Cameras 2025 in the UK

The Nikon COOLPIX P950 is a compelling choice for those looking for a versatile bridge camera with impressive zoom capabilities. Its standout feature is the 83x optical zoom, offering a focal length range from a wide 24mm to an astonishing 2000mm. This makes it ideal for capturing distant subjects, whether you're into wildlife photography or sporting events. Beyond its zoom prowess, the camera supports 166x Dynamic Fine Zoom and 332x Digital Zoom, providing options for even closer shots, though the latter may reduce image quality.

The camera features a high-resolution electronic viewfinder and a vari-angle TFT LCD screen, making it adaptable for various shooting angles and conditions. For video enthusiasts, it offers 4K Ultra HD video capabilities with stereo sound, along with an accessory hot-shoe for additional gear, enhancing its video production capabilities. The manual controls enable photographers to tweak settings to their preferences, although the maximum aperture of 6.5mm may not perform as well in low-light conditions compared to cameras with larger apertures. The included RAW image support is advantageous for those who enjoy editing and post-processing, providing flexibility and detail.

The optical image stabilization is a positive feature, especially when using its extended zoom. On the downside, the camera's water resistance is limited, which might not be suitable for harsh weather conditions. While the effective resolution of 16 MP is decent, some users might find it less satisfying compared to higher-resolution alternatives. Despite these limitations, its broad zoom range and video capabilities make it a solid option for those who prioritize versatility in a bridge camera. It's suitable for users who want a powerful zoom without the complexities of interchangeable lens systems, offering a balanced mix of automatic and manual options for various shooting needs.

The Sony RX10 IV is a standout in the bridge camera category, primarily due to its remarkable zoom range and image quality. With a ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T* 24-600mm lens, it offers an impressive zoom range suitable for capturing a wide variety of subjects, from landscapes to wildlife. The relatively large 1.0-type sensor paired with 20.1 megapixels ensures high-resolution images with good sensitivity, even in less than ideal lighting conditions. Its fast and accurate autofocus with 0.03-second response time and advanced Real Time tracking make it great for capturing fast-moving subjects effectively.

The camera's video capabilities are strong, with the ability to shoot 4K movies, which is complemented by built-in image stabilization, enhancing video smoothness. The maximum aperture of F2.8-4.0 allows for good depth of field control and low-light shooting flexibility, although some may find the aperture range limiting for achieving very shallow depth of field effects.

The presence of a viewfinder with 0.70x magnification is a significant plus for photographers who prefer composing shots through a viewfinder rather than a screen. Manual controls are comprehensive, catering well to both enthusiasts and semi-professionals who want more creative control over their shots. However, the camera is not water-resistant, which might be a downside for those looking to shoot in challenging weather conditions. Weighing 0.7 kilograms, it is relatively heavy for a compact camera, which could be a consideration for prolonged handheld use. The camera's advanced features and performance are reflected in user reviews, earning 4.4 out of 5 stars from 209 ratings, indicating a high level of satisfaction among its users. The Sony RX10 IV is ideal for photography enthusiasts looking for a versatile, high-quality camera without the need to change lenses, especially for photography involving varied focal lengths and quick, responsive shooting scenarios.

The Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82DE-K Bridge Camera is equipped with an 18.1MP MOS sensor, which provides good image quality and detailed photos. It shines in video capabilities with 4K video recording at 30p/25p and HD video at high frame rates, making it suitable for capturing fast action scenes. The versatile lens offers a wide zoom range from 20mm to 1200mm with a maximum aperture of F2.8-5.9, allowing for both wide landscapes and detailed close-ups. However, the aperture range may limit performance in low-light conditions when zoomed in. It features optical image stabilization to reduce blur, which is essential for handheld shooting, especially at longer focal lengths.

The camera includes a high-resolution OLED Live View Finder and a touch LCD screen, making it easy to compose and review shots even in bright sunlight. Manual controls are available for more experienced users who wish to customize settings. USB-C charging adds convenience for travel and longer shoots. Despite its strengths, the camera's relatively small sensor size compared to DSLRs may not perform as well in low-light scenarios. The autofocus system is reliable but not the fastest, which may be a drawback for sports and wildlife photography.

The continuous shooting speed of 30 fps is impressive for still photography but may be overkill for typical users. The camera is not water-resistant, limiting its use in harsh weather conditions. At 640 grams, it is fairly lightweight for a bridge camera, but might still feel bulky during prolonged use. It’s a great fit for travelers, nature enthusiasts, and those looking to capture a wide range of subjects without needing multiple lenses.