The 4 Best Cameras for Kids of 2022

Best Overall: VTech Kidizoom DUO Camera

When it comes to learning photography, kids simply want to have a good time and develop a passion for cameras that will last them a lifetime. The VTech Kidizoom DUO Camera (Check latest price on Amazon), designed for kids ages 3 to 9, is one of the best starter cameras you can give them if they’ve expressed an interest in taking photos.

It’s a brightly colored, durable camera with an included wrist strap that can withstand drops or slips, as well as a rear 2.4-inch color LCD screen that allows kids to see what they’re looking at. With a 1200-pixel front camera and a 640 x 840 rear lens, it’s also fun for selfies. Of course, taking photos is only half the fun, so the DUO includes built-in filters and effects that allow kids to customize their shots. There’s 256MB of built-in memory, but you can expand it with a microSD card.

It’s a real digital camera, just like mom and dad’s, but it’s designed specifically for curious children. While most children’s cameras don’t have high resolutions or zooms, your children will be proud of the colorful, fun photos they can take with the VTech DUO.

_{Resolution: 2MP | Sensor Type: CMOS | Max ISO: Unknown | Optical Zoom: 0x | Connectivity: USB}

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Best Splurge: Canon PowerShot ELPH 190

The Canon PowerShot ELPH 190 (Check latest price on Amazon) is an excellent choice for teenagers looking to upgrade from a bulky camera for children. This sleek, stylish camera comes in red, blue, or black and uses a 10MP sensor, 10x optical zoom, and a fast DIGIC 4+ processor to capture high-quality images.

When your child is finished shooting, you can quickly send photos to a smartphone or tablet via Wi-Fi or NFC. This camera is more expensive than some of the other models reviewed here because it isn’t specifically designed for children. You should also get a carrying case for it to protect it from scratches and drops. Fortunately, it’s small and compact, measuring just slightly larger than a credit card and fitting easily into backpacks or coat pockets.

Because the ELPH 190 has tripod support, can film 2720p HD videos, and has a variety of shooting modes, it gives kids who have expressed an interest in videography or photography a lot of creative freedom. The controls are simple to use, so your child should be able to master them quickly.

_{Resolution: 20MP | Sensor Type: CMOS | Max ISO: 1600 | Optical Zoom: 10x | Connectivity: Wi-Fi, NFC}

Best Waterproof: Ourlife Kids Waterproof Camera

A waterproof camera, such as the Ourlife Kids Waterproof Camera (Check latest price on Amazon), is a great choice if your child enjoys being outside or if you’re planning a vacation. It’s very affordable and waterproof, with a depth rating of 33 feet and an IP68 rating. While the camera’s specs aren’t world-class due to its low price, it’s more than capable of taking clear underwater photos in the hotel pool or by the lake.

It’s a small, brightly colored camera with a mount that allows you to attach it to a helmet or bike to capture all of the action while on the move. After shooting, kids can edit and customize each shot using the included frames and filters.

Despite its low price, the Ourlife is built to last, with a dust- and shock-resistant body and a 1.7-inch LCD screen that allows the user to view previews and adjust settings. The camera’s design and style are clearly intended to evoke comparisons to the popular GoPro, and while the specs aren’t identical, this camera is sure to excite young children who want to be able to take their own vacation photos and film videos while swimming or playing outside.

_{Resolution: 5MP | Sensor Type: CMOS | Max ISO: N/A | Optical Zoom: 0x | Connectivity: USB}

Best Instant Film: Instax Mini 9

Nothing beats the thrill of shooting with an instant camera and waiting for the picture to print out for kids. The Instax Mini 9 (Check latest price on Amazon), which comes in a variety of bright, tropical colors, is our pick for the best instant camera for kids. It’s easy to operate and produces crisp, accurate images that are enjoyable to keep as mementos. With a plastic design that can withstand a few bumps and scratches, the Mini 9 is both stylish and durable.

The Mini 9 is similar to the Mini 8, but it now comes in a wider range of colors, has a small selfie mirror, and Instax has added a new close-up lens for macro photography. The camera can also suggest the best exposure settings for your lighting, but keep in mind that it isn’t always 100% accurate. There’s also a high-key mode for taking softer photos, which is ideal for portraits.

The Mini 9 may not be the best camera for everyday use due to the high cost of print film, but it’s sure to be a hit at birthday parties and special occasions.

_{Resolution: 16MP | Sensor Type: CMOS | Max ISO: 800 | Optical Zoom: 0x | Connectivity: Capable of only printing, not transferring digital photos}