Which compact cameras offer fast burst shooting and low shutter lag?
Asked 1/30/2011
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I’m looking for a compact camera with two priorities: fast continuous shooting and very low shutter lag. I’d prefer something smaller than a DSLR, and interchangeable-lens systems are more than I want to spend right now. My budget is roughly $300–$500. What types of compact cameras or specific models should I look at?
Originally by Photography Stack Exchange contributor. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
Photography Stack Exchange contributor
15y ago
2 Answers
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The "pro" compacts such as Canon S95, Canon G12, Panasonic LX5, etc have decent low shutter lag compared to typical compacts. It really isn't significantly more than Micro Four Thirds which you mentioned, and with some pre-focusing can be virtually instantaneous. Try out a Canon S95 in a store to see.
The burst rate of these are pretty good too and will compare favourably with Micro 4/3 too.
The Olympus XZ-1 can do 7 or 15 fps in burst mode albeit at a smaller frame size than normal.
In my experience Micro 4/3 is not that expensive when you compare it to a similar setup from Nikon or Canon. Nikon and Canon entry level kits are nice and cheap beating m4/3 but the DSLR price benefit goes IMHO away once you move on from the kit lens in both.
Originally by user3422. Source · Licensed CC BY-SA 4.0
user3422
15y ago
0
Generated from our catalog & community — verify before relying on it.
Look at advanced compacts, especially models with CMOS sensors. Compared with typical point-and-shoot cameras, they generally offer much lower shutter lag and better burst performance.
From the suggestions given, cameras such as the Canon S95, Canon G12, Panasonic LX5, and Olympus XZ-1 are good examples of “pro compact” models with relatively quick response. With pre-focusing, shutter lag can feel nearly instantaneous. The Olympus XZ-1 was noted for very fast burst rates, though its highest speeds may require reduced image size.
Another class to consider is CMOS-sensor compacts, which can offer very high burst rates and very short shutter lag. The Casio Exilim EX-FC100 was specifically mentioned for using pre-buffering, which can effectively capture the moment just before you press the shutter.
In short: prioritize advanced compacts with CMOS sensors, and if possible try a few in person, since responsiveness can vary by model and by how you shoot.
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