As the point-and-shoot and compact camera trend is setting back, older cameras from decades ago are now becoming far more important. If you also wish to purchase such a relic, you have come to the right place. This article looks at ten point-and-shoot devices from over a decade ago that could interest you. Without further ado, let’s dive into the world of retro compact cameras.
Leica X1: One of the Best Retro Compact Cameras
An expensive compact camera, the Leica X1, was released in 2009. It has a 12MP CMOS sensor, a 35mm equivalent f2.8 lens, and an ISO range of 100 to 3200. The image quality is great, thanks to its large sensor, and it offers a quiet shutter and great ergonomics. However, one drawback is its price point, which can be anywhere between $700 and over $1400. If you want a classic relic with better controls, then this one is for you.
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Fujifilm X100: The Original
A classic launched in 2010, the Fujifilm X100 was the start of the popular X series, which featured a 12MP SLR-size APS-C sensor. The image quality is good, but the autofocus is slow, which will urge you to slow down. Furthermore, it has analog-style control dials to control shutter speed, aperture, and exposure compensation, which is a boon for anyone wanting a digital camera with analog ergonomics.
Olympus XZ-1: This Survived a Pillow Fight
The Olympus XZ1 features a 10MP sensor that is far larger than most compact cameras launched in 2011. It comes with a 28-112mm equivalent lens, a 3-inch LCD screen, and varied dials for anyone looking for better controls. It also comes with Art filters and offers better low-light performance, making it a perfect choice for both enthusiasts and professionals.
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Leica D-Lux 6: Not Just a Panasonic
Another fixed-lens camera by Leica, the D-Lux 6 features a 10.1MP 1/1.7- CMOS sensor with a 4.7-17.7mm (24-90mm equivalent) f/1.4-2.3 fixed lens. It offers 4x zoom, ISO up to 12800, a burst rate of 11 fps, and a 3-inch rear LCD. The image quality is amazing, with the camera offering great colors and details in bright light. Furthermore, it offers RAW files, which is great for artistic photographers needing more ways to compose their images.
Nikon Coolpix A: We Miss This camera
The powerful compact has specs similar to those of the Ricoh GR camera, featuring a 16MP APS-C-sized sensor with a fixed 18.5mm f2.8. The Coolpix A comes with better-built quality, a Matrix metering system, and an ISO range of 12,800. It also offers RAW files, making it perfect for those who need more control over their images. Its size and speed make it a great device for anyone who likes street photography and wishes to be discreet. Furthermore, you get an image quality that will certainly satisfy your needs — especially from a retro compact camera.
Fujifilm XF1: The Camera We All Forgot About
One of Fujifilm’s flagship pocket cameras, the XF1 features a 12MP sensor, a 25 – 100 mm equivalent lens with 4x, a 3-inch fixed LCD screen, and the ability to record 1080p videos. It comes with a rugged body with a cool design, RAW capability, great controls, and an f1.8 aperture lens. If you want a device that you can use to upload images directly, then this one is for you. The image quality is unique and will give a soft blur to your images. This is the beautiful retro compact camera we all forgot about.
Canon S95: One of Our Favorites
Launched in 2009, the Canon S95 features a 10MP sensor, a 28-105mm (equivalent) lens, ISO up to 3200, and even RAW file capabilities. It offers exceptional battery life, good images (some can be a bit out of focus), and great ISO performance. It is autofocus quick, but one can’t compare it to today’s standards because it will fail. The S95 also offers better design, making photography a better experience.
Panasonic LX100: Praying for a Successor
Set to rival Fujifilm X100, the Panasonic LX100 features a 12.8MP 4/3-inc Type Multi-Aspect MOS sensor, 24-75mm (35mm equivalent) lens, 4K video, manual controls, and an aspect ratio dial. It offers great image quality, ergonomics, better wifi and transfer ability, and fast autofocus. It is a more serious compact camera that will meet your daily needs.
Sony RX100 Mark III: One of the Best
The Sony RX100 Mk III is one of the best point-and-shoots out there. It features a 20.1MP sensor, 24-70mm (35mm equivalent) lens, full HD video, 1440k-Dot OLED, and can shoot up to ISO 12800. It has a great in-camera white balance, a great body, great colors and details in images and videos, and a size that makes it perfect for street photography. The NYTimes even declared it to be one of the best compact cameras during the time.
Ricoh GR: Gotta Love This One
Ricoh GR was the first in the GR series devices, which changed the way we look at cameras. It boasts a 16.2MP sensor, 12-bit RAW file, 18.3mm (28mm) equivalent lens, and various capture and effects modes. Since this camera is purely for photographers, it has some great ergonomics, offers consistently impressive image quality, and is a perfect partner for travel. Its lightweight and easy use make it one of the best retro compact cameras on this list, too.
