Panasonic LUMIX FZ1000 II

And an Olympus/Panasonic micro four-thirds mirrorless system is possibly the most compact of the "big gun" cameras, but the compactness comes from the smaller 4/3"-format sensor size (2x crop) which has less image quality than APS-C (1.5x crop); so you are reducing image quality to get a smaller system. But travel also makes portability, convenience, and low cost more important in camera choices.

While it's not as portable as one of the compact cameras on this list, the Panasonic LUMIX FZ1000 II is one of the best bridge cameras we've tested, combining convenience, versatility, and comfort in a relatively affordable package. Generally speaking, bridge cameras are a good all-in-one solution for general photography and home video thanks to their built-in zoom lenses and relative portability. It has a highly intuitive menu system that makes it easy for anyone to pick it up and start shooting

The clip feels great, it sat in my chest pocket for a couple days with no problems, same for pant pocket. I'm very happy with my purchase.

If you're looking for a bridge camera that combines the convenience of a built-in lens with the comfort and feel of a DSLR, then the best camera to buy is the Panasonic LUMIX FZ1000 II. While higher-end bridge cameras like the Sony RX10 IV have it beat on autofocus and continuous shooting speed, the FZ1000 II has a great battery life, a fully articulated screen, and offers a ton of value for its price.

I personally would not recommend the EOS M50 as it is worse in low light than the Panasonic, it loses the advantage of having good AF if you record in 4K, it has no IBIS and it isn't weather-sealed and there aren't a lot of native lenses for the system. Personally, I think Panasonic offers more for less, but if you need good AF for sure, then get one of the Sony cameras.

ConclusionThe Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 is a great alternative for anyone considering an entry-level digital SLR or as a secondary camera for when you want or need to travel light. The lens is better than what you'd get with any dSLR or ILC kit and thanks to excellent performance across the board, you're getting a very capable camera for stills and video at a reasonable price.

These are some of the best cameras for outdoor photography if you don't want to spend a fortune, though their smaller sensors are also limiting if you're after the highest image quality. While the premium Sony RX10 IV has a bit more to offer, we like the Panasonic LUMIX FZ1000 II for most people since it offers versatile performance without breaking the bank.

It's built more to be compact and convenient, and to handle low-light (like indoors without a flash) relatively well, but is limited in zoom range. 8.8-25.7mm => 24-70mm equivalence (i.e., same FoV a 24-70 lens would give you on a 1x crop (full frame camera). It does, however have a "fast" lens (like a smartphone camera) being f/1.8-f/2.8 (smartphone camera phones are generally f/2). A good walkaround camera, wide angle but not ultrawide.

It delivers solid all-around performance, and its long zoom lens gives you the versatility to shoot far-off subjects and wildlife, capture everyday moments, or zoom in for close-ups. Image quality is great, with very little noise at higher ISO levels, making it well-suited to shooting indoors or in low light.