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 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.

The Canon PowerShot SX70 HS is an appealing choice for those looking for a bridge camera with the feel of a DSLR. Its standout feature is the impressive 65x zoom, allowing for versatile shooting from wide angles to extreme close-ups, which is ideal for capturing detailed images of distant subjects. The camera's ability to shoot in RAW format and capture 4K video enhances its versatility for both photography and videography enthusiasts. Additionally, the optical image stabilization helps maintain clarity in shots, even when the zoom is fully extended or in low-light conditions.

The camera offers a fast autofocus system, crucial for capturing moving subjects with precision. Its closest focusing distance of 0 cm in macro mode is excellent for detailed close-ups, making it suitable for nature photography or intricate subjects. With an effective resolution of 20.3 MP, it delivers high-quality images, though the sensor size is not specifically highlighted, which might limit performance in very low-light scenarios.

Manual controls are available, allowing users to fine-tune their shots, and the electronic viewfinder is a beneficial feature for those preferring traditional composition methods. However, the maximum aperture of 3.4 may not provide the best depth of field effects compared to cameras with larger apertures. The camera is lightweight, adding to its convenience for travel, although it is not water-resistant, limiting its use in harsh weather conditions. While the camera includes essential accessories like a battery and charger, its lack of water resistance and slightly limited ISO range may not satisfy all outdoor photography needs. The PowerShot SX70 HS is best suited for users who want a comprehensive all-in-one camera without investing in multiple lenses and are satisfied with its moderate low-light performance and manual control options.