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Digital cameras were thought to be dead after the introduction of the first iPhone back in 2007, but new research has found an increasing surge in sales — and it’s all thanks to Gen Z. Young adults aged 18-29 are supposedly the driving force behind the major growth in digital camera sales as the desire for a vintage ’90s aesthetic and Y2K style prevails.
The average price for a digital camera has since increased to around $620, but that doesn’t mean you have to burn a hole in your wallet to hop on the instant camera trend. There are a number of good digital cameras under $100 that’ll provide better quality photos than what your smartphone and flip phones could ever produce.
Below, Billboard Shopping breaks down the benefits of owning a digital camera as well as the best digital cameras under $100 to buy online.
Are Digital Cameras Worth It?
Point-and-shoot cameras have evolved with the times to include an expanded list of features and upgraded technology. You’ll not only capture higher-quality photos than with a smartphone (especially in low-light conditions), you’ll also enjoy quicker shutter speeds, an increased amount of storage, and customizability.
Content creators can also use most point-and-shoot cameras as a vlogging camera due to its versatile nature, allowing you to switch from point-and-shoot to a video camera.
Is a Digital Camera Better Than An iPhone?
Apple’s latest iPhone 15 boasts 48 megapixels (the amount of detail a camera’s sensor can capture), which is at the same level of some cheap digital cameras. That doesn’t take into account the $1,000+ price tag attached to the smartphone in addition to not as much storage and a less crisp flash. Digital cameras are also designed with photography being the main use, whereas an iPhone and other smartphones have to be able to switch from a camera, to a phone and web browser.
What Are the Best Digital Cameras Under $100?
When determining the best digital camera under $100 to buy, you’ll want to decide what your main purpose of use will be. Whether you’re capturing memories from your lineup of tours and music festivals or looking for a beginner-friendly design to start a photography hobby, check below for some of the top-rated affordable digital cameras.
EDITOR’S PICK
Kanoreely 4K Digital Camera
Kanoreely’s digital camera can capture 64 MP (the most on the list!) as well as 4K resolution videos for the highest-quality content. The built-in anti-shake feature will also help you avoid snapping any blurry photos, while the rechargeable battery ensures you don’t have to stock up on disposable batteries.
Amazon reviewers love how easy it is to use and the quality of pictures it takes for its low price. One shopper notes that “it takes amazing pictures, has easy controls and does a great job in different shooting situations.” They also rave about “how fast it focuses,” noting that “the stabilization is handy for getting clear shots.” The app also makes it super easy to transfer photos.
PHOTOGRAPHY PICK
Kodak PixPro FZ45-SL Digital Camera
Whether you’re shooting photos of your tropical vacation or family picutres, Wednkoly’s affordable digital camera makes it possible to capture professional-grade photos with 44 MP. Included is a 32 GB SD card to store your picutres on, face recognition, smile detection and continuous shooting for a more flexible shooting experience.
One reviewer described it as a “very impressive little camera for the price,” commenting on how “at this price point, this camera is the best option out there.”
BEGINNER-FRIENDLY PICK
Lecran Digital Camera
If you’re new to photography, Lecran’s cheap digital camera simplifies the process without sacrificing quality. It’s capable of capturing 44 MP and uses motion detection and face detection while setting up your shot. The anti-shake feature helps prevent blurry photos, while the self-timer allows you to take group pictures to make sure everyone is in the photo.
The digital camera has “exceeded expectations” for one Amazon shopper who said “the image quality is superb with sharp details and vibrant colors. Its user-friendly interface makes it accessible for both beginners and experienced photographers.”
VLOGGING PICK
Brewene 4K Digital Camera
Vloggers will appreciate the 48 MP and 4K resolution of the Brewene digital camera paired with its 16X zoom abilities and built-in microphone. It’s also designed with a hot shoe mount, a rotatable LCD screen (great for self-tapes) and and CMOS image sensor that’ll precisely focus on your subjects.
A verified Amazon reviewer called the digital camera a “little gem for budding creatives” complimenting how “navigating through the settings was intuitive and the autofocus feature works like a charm making everything look professional.”
TRAVEL PICK
Camkory Digital Camera
Camkory’s compact digital camera will help keep you from feeling weighed down during your travels since it only weighs 9.13 ounces. Its slim design makes it easy to slip inside your backpack or fanny pack while and when it’s time to take pictures, you can enjoy 44 MP quality.
Reviewers can’t get enough of its portability with one verified Amazon reviewer saying, “the photo quality was impressive, showcasing the camera’s capabilities in diverse settings.”
ACTION PICK
AKASO Brave 4 Pro Action Camera
Make sure to capture all your concert antics with an affordable action digital camera like the AKASO Brave 4 Pro. The outer shell is waterproof for any underwater or rain-filled shots while the electronic image stabilization (EIS) 2.0 uses a six-axis gyroscope that’ll detect positions and motion changes for more focused, straight shots.
Reviewers enjoy the quality of photos and videos for the price point with one person saying “I wanted a camera with two screens, that was easy to use and has a good battery life — and this has all that. So far, the battery has lasted on a two-hour ride and I can take the spare if I go longer.”
For more product recommendations, check out our roundups of the best podcast equipment, portable recording booths and studio headphones.
