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Fixed Lens Camera

How does a fixed lens camera differ from a DSLR?

By Kyle Schurman Kyle Schurman Freelance Contributor University of Nebraska-Lincoln Kyle Schurman is a writer who specializes in digital cameras. His writing has appeared in Steve's Darkroom, Gadget Review, and others. lifewire's editorial guidelines Updated on July 17, 2020 Tweet Share Email Tweet Share Email Travel Tech Digital Cameras & Photography Tips for Mobile Photography The term fixed lens camera can have different meanings. Some fixed lens cameras look identical to digital single lens reflex (DSLR) cameras, but there is one major difference: A fixed lens camera cannot use interchangeable lenses. Information in this article applies broadly to different types of cameras. Review individual product specifications before making a purchase. Canon

What Is a Fixed Lens Camera

Fixed lens cameras range in size from vintage models with large image sensors to tiny point-and-shoot devices. Cellphone cameras are technically fixed lens cameras, but the term is most often used to describe larger cameras that look like DSLRs. Fixed lens cameras typically have large zoom lenses, and they usually cost more than beginner models. Some fixed lens cameras can slightly increase their zoom and wide angle capabilities through the use of conversion lenses, but this is rare.

Basic Fixed Lens Cameras

The most basic fixed lens cameras typically offer some sort of optical zoom setting. Inexpensive models are often thin, and the lens retracts inside the camera body when it's powered down, allowing you to carry the camera in your pocket. For example, the Canon PowerShot SX620 HS camera is a basic fixed lens model that offers a 18X optical zoom lens.

Premium Fixed Lens Cameras

Advanced fixed lens cameras may come with a smaller zoom lens, but they have a wide open aperture. This gives the photographer more flexibility, including the ability to blur the background. Such advanced fixed lens cameras also have a large image sensor. These types of cameras, such as the Fujifilm XF1, are usually expensive.

Fixed Lens Bridge Cameras

Bridge cameras serve as a bridge for an intermediate photographer looking to migrate from a beginner camera to a DSLR. These large-zoom fixed lens camera can achieve settings that are difficult to match with any other type of camera, even a DSLR. The Canon SX70 HS camera is one such model, offering a 65X optical zoom setting. Was this page helpful? Thanks for letting us know! Get the Latest Tech News Delivered Every Day Subscribe Tell us why! Other Not enough details Hard to understand Submit More from Lifewire What Is a Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) Camera Camera Terminology for DSLR Camera Lenses The History of Sony Cameras The 6 Best Canon Cameras of 2022 What Is a Bridge Camera? Buying Only the Camera Body to Save Money Understand Camera Zoom Lenses DSLR vs. Point-and-Shoot Cameras Is the Canon PowerShot SX420 Right for You? Digital Camera Glossary: What Is a Scene Mode? What Is a DSLR Camera? What to Look for When Buying Used Camera Lenses The 8 Best Wi-Fi Cameras of 2022 Canon PowerShot SX420 Review: 42x Optical Zoom in a Compact Camera The 6 Best Cameras for Under $400 in 2022 Canon PowerShot SX530 Review: A Great, Compact Camera for Any Beginner Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up Newsletter Sign Up By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookies Settings Accept All Cookies