Best Superzoom Camera for Birding

Superzoom cameras are the best choice for bird watching and birding adventures. It doesn’t matter if you are a casual shooter or a serious enthusiast. The unmatched and beyond compare zoom features enable you to get a closer view of birds you would not otherwise be able to see. These are remarkable cameras for capturing details.

At this point, there are lots of cameras available on the market which makes it hard for you to choose the best one. Some models boast a full range of features aside from zoom capabilities while some might have video shooting capability, tilting touch screens, Wi-Fi connectivity as well as other choices to make a fast and easy shooting.

The greater parts of zoom cameras are made to be as responsive as possible. As a result, you can get the shot you want without any pressure. To help you make an informed decision, we have gathered the top 10 best superzoom cameras for birding.

But before we jump in, here is our best overall and best budget pick if you are currently in a hurry.

Top 10 Superzoom Camera for Bird Photography

Most of the time, we fail to notice the small things that are happening around us. For those interested in nature and birding there is a new device that can help you do more than just look as some people might want to take pictures.

This Superzoom Camera for Birding looks like it could be used for those who study birds and need to keep an eye on them without disturbing their natural habitat. The camera will allow you to zoom up close and capture some beautiful shots of these animals.

Below is our honest and unbiased review of the best video camera for wildlife photography.

1. Nikon COOLPIX P1000: Highest Optical Zoom Range

Key Features

• 16MP BSI CMOS Image Sensor
• EXPEED Image Processor
• Dual Detect Optical Vibration Reduction
• 4K UHD
• 125x optical zoom range
• Manual Control Ring
• 2 inch 921-Dot Bari-Angle LCD
• OLED electronic viewfinder

State of the art CoolPIX P100 is integrated with the company’s patented 24-3000mm lens with a remarkable 125x optical zoom range. You can also zoom further with the 250 times dynamic fine digital zoom. On the other hand, always remember that digital zoom results in the degradation of the quality of the picture.

The massive zoom capabilities of this camera come with the feature of Dual Detect Optical Vibration Reduction.  This provides 5-stops of optical image stabilization. With it, you’ll get clear and crisp telephoto shots during hand-held shooting. You will especially find this useful and handy in wildlife adventures.

The integrated 4K UHD video recording at 30fps ability is made possible by the 16MP BSI CMOS Image Sensor. The sensor provides a remarkable low light performance. What is more, the EXPEED Image Processor feature offers faster processing of pictures of up to 7fps at 4608 by 3456. Also, it comes with a manual control ring.

2. Panasonic Lumix FZ80: Budget-Friendly Pick

Key Features

• Post Focus
• 4K video resolution
• 60 times long zoom
• 20mm wide-angle capacity

The Lumix FZ80 from Panasonic is considered the best superzoom camera for birding because it has been termed as an “all-around camera” meaning it can be utilized for numerous jobs. It has 60 times long zoom and 20mm wide-angle capacity for amazing landscapes. Due to this feature, you can take pictures of the wildlife even if you are miles away from the subject. The integrated lens will make sure that the pictures you shoot are of high-quality.

You will love the 4K technology that guarantees superior pictures. What is more, you can take pictures at up to thirty frames every second. So, meaning even when the bird is flying, you can take pictures of it with ease. It has a superior low light performance which makes it ideal to use during nighttime, especially in low light conditions.

Post Focus is one of the best features of this camera. This allows you to set the preferred focus points after taking a picture. Also, you can choose several focus points through the Focus Stacking feature that will make sure a greater depth. Also, it fits perfectly in your palm, whether it is small or big. It has an ergonomic grip, so you can handle this camera in place for a long period.

3. Nikon Coolpix P900: The Best Camera for Landscapes and Wildlife

Key Features

• Dynamic Fine Zoom
• Wi-Fi
• Near Field Communication
• Electronic Viewfinder
• 83x optical zoom

This camera comes with a 2000mm optical zoom, making it great for landscapes and wildlife. The high-resolution EV or Electronic Viewfinder will instantly switch one once you lift the unit to your eye. So, worry no more about pressing buttons and picking settings. You’ll be happy to know that the P900 zoom camera from Nikon can take up 360 shots for every charge so charging it once in a while is not required.

This zoom camera has also been made with the Dynamic Fine Zoom feature which improves the digital zoom. Thus you can utilize it no matter what the situation or condition you are in. What makes the superzoom camera apart is that it has been integrated with Near Field Communication and Wi-Fi, so you can share your pictures on social media sites immediately. All you need is your tablet or smartphone.

4. Panasonic Lumix FZ1000: True to Life and Super High-Resolution Images

Key Feature

• 1-megapixel High Sensitivity MOS Sensor
• Level Shot Function
• Comes with Wi-Fi
• High Definition 120 fps
• 16x optical zoom

If you are searching for a superzoom camera that gives you a clear, realistic, and vibrant motion, look no further than Panasonic Lumix FZ1000. With this camera, you can take please in true to life as well as ultra-high resolution pictures in a smooth motion. What is more, you can also record high-quality videos. It comes with the Creative Motion feature that allows you to turn the video into a dramatic slow-motion full High Definition 120 fps.

This camera gives you the chance of viewing the videos and pictures on the 3840 by 2160 8- megapixel display which you can see if you are under direct sunlight or when you are in low light conditions. It comes with a 16x optical zoom that will bring the subject up close in spite of how far you are. What is more, the 1-inch 20.1-megapixel High Sensitivity MOS Sensor will get the S/N ratio better. As a result, it will make less noise when zooming.

The hybrid optical image stabilizer comes with five-axis correction, so meaning there are no blurred pictures. It has Level Shot Function feature that detects the picture’s horizontal line and sustains the same stabilization even when the camera is tilted quickly. It also takes stable video even in a high-angle blind recording. It comes with Wi-Fi so you can easily share the pictures you have taken on your social media account right away.

5. Olympus Stylus 1s Digital Camera: Best in Wide Zoom Range

Key Features

• Leaning Touchscreen monitor
• Electronic Viewfinder
• 300mm zoom range and bright aperture
• Stabilization system

This Stylus 1s is considered one of the best superzoom cameras because it has been made with a broad zoom range of up to 300mm and a bright aperture. You can utilize it no matter where you are. What is more, the integrated lens allows a high shutter speed in low light conditions so you can take pictures of birds with ease even at night.

The stylish stabilization system will make sure that you can shoot clear and crisp photos even when you swiftly move the camera while taking pictures. The backdrop will be defocused, and the subject will be the focal point. Thus, you can take incredible pictures which are rich in details. Also, you can preview the pictures without taking your eyes off the subject via the 1.44 million-pixel electronic viewfinder.

You will surely enjoy this camera as there is no time lag to deal with. Therefore, it will be unfeasible for the subject to move before getting a shot at photographing it. The integrated Eye Sensor will instantly switch from the LCD display to the electronic viewfinder as you bring this unit closer to your eyes. You can angle or slant the 3-inch touchscreen monitor up to 80 degrees upwards and 50 degrees downwards.

6. Canon PowerShot SX70 HS: Mid Range Superzoom Camera

Key Features

• 4K video at 30fps
• Optical Image Stabilizer
• 3 MP CMOS sensor
• 65x optical zoom
• DIGIC 8 image processor

It is one of the best superzoom cameras for birding. It is a middle-range priced cam with a 20.3 MP CMOS sensor as well as DIGIC 8 image processor. These features allow you to capture still pictures of flying birds or any moving subjects at up to 10fps.

The PowerShot SX70 HS from Canon is integrated with a 65x optical zoom lens that covers a broad-angle to super-telephoto focal length range. As a result, you can capture many birds or zoom in on a particular subject for details. To provide clear and crisp pictures, this camera is integrated with an optical image stabilizer.

With PowerShot SX70 HS provides dual scene framing. That is with either the 3.0-inch 920k-dot LCD tilt screen or the 0.39-type 2.36m-dot OLED electronic viewfinder. It records remarkable 4K video at 30fps with a choice for recording in 1080p resolution at 120fps.

7. Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ2500: The Best 4K Video Resolution

Key Feature

• Free angle touch screen LCD
• 36m-dot OLED EVF
• 5-Axis HYBRID Optical Image Stabilization Plus
• DCI 4K video recording
• Leica DC Vario-Elmarit lens
• High Sensitivity MOS Sensor

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ250 is a DSLR styled camera with lots of likeness to the DSC-RX10 IV from Sony. It is integrated with a Leica DC Vario-Elmarit lens that has 20 times optical zoom capability. With this lens, you can handle both super-telephoto and wide-angle bird photography.

This camera is also integrated with a big 20.1 MP 1 inch High Sensitivity MOS Sensor, which allows you to capture amazing and out-of-this-world photos and videos during your wildlife adventures. Most likely, you will enjoy the DCI 4K video recording at 24,00fps. Also, you get UHD 4K and Full High Definition options.

Sharp images are assured as it is integrated with 5-Axis HYBRID Optical Image Stabilization Plus. It reduces footage blurring during hand-held shooting through correcting camera trembles. Also, you get a 3,0 inch 1.04m-dot free-angle touch screen LCD as well as a 0.74 by 2.36m-dot OLED EVF.

8. Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-HX80: Small Travel Companion

Key Features

• Tilting rear screen
• 30 times zoom capability
• 24-720 mm lens
• Smart retractable viewfinder

If you want a zoom camera that is both functional and portable, look no further than the cyber-shot DSC-HX80 from Sony. It’s just about bigger than a point and shoot camera for beginners, so you can keep in your jacket’ or jeans pocket.

However, in spite of its small size, it has a 30 times 24-720mm lens that provides lots of coverage for your vacation photo needs. The Sony HX80 also integrated with a smart retractable viewfinder which allows for eye-level shooting. The tilting rear screen flips up 180 degrees so you can take selfies.

9. Panasonic Lumix FZ300: User-Friendly Superzoom Camera for Birding

Key Features

• Tilting touchscreen LCD monitor
• OLED Live View Finder
• Depth From Focus Auto Focus technology
• Leica DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens
• 24 times zoom range

Yet another remarkable and best superzoom camera for birding is available in the Lumix FZ300 from Panasonic. It comes with user-friendly controls making it ideal for a newbie. It is also budget-friendly. So, if you are running out of budget but want a superior model, the Panasonic Lumix is the best choice.

It comes with a Leica DC VARIO-ELMARIT lens that has 24 times optical zoom range. The utmost aperture is f2.8, thus improving the quality of the result in low light conditions.

FZ300 superzoom camera is integrated with a 12.1MP 1/2.3″ High-Sensitivity MOS Sensor as well as Venus Engine Image Processor. These two features allow you to take superior pictures in a low light setting. What is more, you also have a 5-axis hybrid optical image stabilizer plus, thus lessening the blurring of the image during hand-held shooting.

This superzoom camera is also integrated with DFD or Depth From Focus Auto Focus technology. This allows you to instantly bring scenes as well as the subject into focus and take images clearly and neatly. State of the art 0.7x 1.44m-dot OLED Live View Finder made scene framing possible. You can also utilize the 3.0” 1,0m-dot tilting touch screen LCD monitor.

10. Canon PowerShot G3 X Digital Camera: Super lightweight Superzoom Camera

Key Feature

• 1080 Full HD option
• Expanded Movie
• Wi-Fi
• Near Field Communication
• High-sensitivity CMOS sensor
• 25x zoom capability

If you are passionate about outdoor adventures, you will surely love the Canon PowerShot G3X. It is integrated with a high-sensitivity CMOS sensor as well as optical zoom that will make sure a remarkable zoom of 25 times. You can also record videos in HD as it comes with 1080p resolution. Also, the Near Field Communication and Wi-Fi will let you share no matter what you shoot with ease.

It has a signal-to-ration ratio that makes sure that the motor is incredibly silent, so you can get closer to the subject without spooking them. This superzoom camera has been upgraded recently, so it allows you to take high-resolution pictures with less sound when taking pictures in a low light conditions. Also, you can capture or record videos in 50p, 30p, and 24p with the mp4 format.

This is tough yet lightweight, so you can take it anywhere you want to go. What is more, you’ll be happy with the fact that you can utilize an array of lenses following your needs. The Expanded Movie and 1080 full HD option will let you make barely credible videos anywhere you are. Also, you’ll be satisfied with the fact that it is integrated with audio, so there is no reason to buy a mic.

Factors to Look for in Superzoom Camera for Birding

There are many things to consider when looking for a superzoom camera. These take account of:

Autofocus

Autofocus is considered one of the most significant factors when taking photos of wildlife and birds. This is simply because it is extremely rare that the bird will stay in one place for a long period. It can be extremely annoying once you miss an amazing shot as the camera has not focused on time, and the bird got spooked. The higher the AF points, the better the camera is.

Low Light Capability

Perhaps you are already familiar that the perfect time to picture birds is before the sunset or early in the morning. You may like best low light cameras review. This is because this is the time when the bird is most active. As a result, you must make sure that your camera can work well in low light settings so you will not be dissatisfied by the way the pictures will turn out.

Weight

The fact Because you will use it more often and carry it anywhere you go, it is vital that the superzoom camera you are thinking of is impractical and not heavy. When you stroll and hike for many miles, it will be taxing to bring around a camera which will put in unnecessary weight in your knapsack and in your neck as well. If the camera is heavy, it will not perfectly fit in your hand, so you are not able to handle it suitably as you want.

Battery Life

How long will the camera last before the battery run out of energy? How long it needs to be recharged? Some superzoom cameras need lithium-ion battery chargers while others can be connected to a power bank via USB cord. You will want to know the procedure before heading to the rain forest.

Price

You also need to consider the price of the camera. Consider the accessories that you will need to purchase in addition to the camera itself. Also, if you are in the market for lightboxes, lenses, as well as selfie sticks, you may need to budget more carefully than you anticipated at first.

Frames per Second (fps)

Frames Per Second or fps for short is considered one of the essential factors to think of when searching for the best superzoom camera for bird watching. The higher the frame per second, the more photos you can shoot during a short burst of activity and split-second is going to count if you are trying to take pictures of the flutter of a bird’s wings.

For city and landscapes shots, a lot of standard settings will do. On the other hand, for a bird that moves faster, you will need as many frames for every second as you can afford.

Sensors

The quality and the size of the sensors can make a difference in the superiority of the pictures. For instance, a camera with a bigger sensor may let in more sun rays, and this can be a bad or good thing it all depends on the level of exposure of the surrounding.

So, ensure to do a proper research before committing to a particular sensor. Sensors can range in size from 1/3 inch to 23.6 by 15.6mm and up to 35 by 24mm.

Frequently Asked Questions

For you to choose and buy the best bird photography based on your needs, these are the questions that you must consider:

Final Thoughts

There is a lot more to capturing images or videos of birds than just clicking your old camera when the bird comes flapping to your feeder. If you are serious about capturing superior and high-drama images, you will need to look for the best superzoom camera for birding. Use this guide to know which one meets your needs!