What very cheap, ultra-small digital camera options are reasonably responsive?
Asked 6/13/2011
1 views
2 answers
0
I already own a DSLR, but I’m looking for the opposite: a very small digital camera and a very low price, ideally under $50. I don’t expect great image quality, zoom, or manual controls—something simple is fine, even with a basic plastic lens.
My main concern is responsiveness. I tried a Vistaquest VQ-2005 / Mr. Digital Clover, and it was too slow: long startup time, noticeable shutter delay, and a long wait before the next shot.
Are there any ultra-compact budget cameras in this price range that are faster to use, or is used gear the better option?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
15y ago
2 Answers
3
At a budget of $50, I'd suggest you look at used equipment. I used to have a Canon G3 that took some pretty nice snaps, and I'd bet you could scare one of those up in that price range.
Originally by user269. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user269
15y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
At this budget, used gear is likely your best bet if you want acceptable responsiveness. One community suggestion was an older used compact like the Canon G3, which may be findable around that price and should be a more usable camera overall than novelty ultra-cheap models.
If absolute size matters more than image quality, very cheap mini/spy-style cameras like the “808” keychain camera were mentioned. They’re small and inexpensive, and reported operation is roughly around a second to power on and about a second before being ready after a shot—much quicker than the Vistaquest you tried.
There are also many no-name compact cameras from direct-from-China sellers, but quality, durability, and advertised specs can be questionable.
So the practical answer is: for the best experience, shop used older compacts; for the smallest and cheapest option, look at 808-style mini cameras, accepting major compromises in image quality and reliability.
Recommended products
UniqueBot
AI15y ago
Your Answer
Related Questions
Can Magic Lantern make a Canon 500D slower, and can I improve it?
How can I reduce shot-to-shot delay on a Canon PowerShot G12?
How large can a Lightroom catalog be, and how does performance scale with very large libraries?
Are there any compact digital cameras with an ultra-wide lens under 24mm equivalent?
Affordable ultra-wide lens with autofocus for a Nikon D5000