10 Best Budget Digital Cameras 2025 in the UK

The Sony Vlog Camera ZV-1 is an appealing option for those specifically interested in vlogging, thanks to its design and feature set. It boasts a 20.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, which is quite competitive in this price range, allowing for high-quality stills and video. The camera's video capabilities are impressive, offering 4K recording with Sony's real-time autofocus technology that keeps subjects in sharp focus even when moving. This makes it particularly suitable for vlogs and video content creation.

Its vari-angle screen is a notable strength, making it easy for users to record themselves. The ZV-1 also incorporates a 3-capsule directional microphone with a windshield, which helps capture clear audio, essential for vloggers. Image stabilization is included, which aids in producing smooth footage when shooting handheld. However, the optical zoom is limited to 2.7x, which might restrict its versatility in capturing distant subjects. The camera's battery life could be better, as vlogging often requires prolonged usage, so carrying an extra battery might be necessary. While the camera's build quality is decent, it is not water-resistant, which could be a drawback for outdoor use.

Connectivity options are standard, but it lacks some advanced features like interchangeable lenses, which may be found in other models within the same category. The compact size and ergonomic design make it portable and easy to handle, enhancing its appeal for on-the-go shooting. The Sony ZV-1 is a solid choice for beginner to intermediate vloggers looking for a compact, easy-to-use camera with quality video capabilities. It excels in providing features tailored for video content creation but may fall short for those needing extensive zoom or extended battery life.

The Nikon Coolpix P950 Digital Camera stands out with its impressive 83x optical zoom, allowing you to capture distant subjects with clarity. The 16-megapixel resolution, while not the highest in the market, is sufficient for most casual and even some advanced photography needs. The camera's sensor size and digital image stabilization contribute to producing sharp images, though it may not perform as well in low-light conditions due to its maximum ISO of 1600.

For video enthusiasts, the P950's capability to shoot in 4K UHD is a significant plus, providing high-quality video capture. However, the camera's continuous shooting speed of 7 fps might be limiting for sports or fast-action photography. Battery life is decent with the included rechargeable Li-ion battery, but heavy users might want to carry a spare. Connectivity options are standard, and the camera includes a variety of scene modes and built-in shooting aids like Bird and Moon modes, which are helpful for beginners.

In terms of build quality, the P950 is solid and ergonomically designed, making it comfortable to use for extended periods. Its weight of 1000 grams is relatively heavy for a budget camera, which might be a drawback for some users. The Nikon Coolpix P950 is a well-rounded budget digital camera, particularly suited for users who need substantial zoom capabilities and high-quality video recording.