Superzooms

Superzooms are camera lenses designed to cover a very wide to very long focal-length range with a single optic. In photography, the term typically refers to lenses with at least a five-to-one zoom range, such as 18–200mm or 28–300mm, in terms of actual focal lengths. These lenses are commonly used on compact cameras, bridge cameras, and as kit or aftermarket options for entry-level and enthusiast camera systems, where convenience and versatility are prioritized.

Design and performance characteristics vary by model, but superzooms generally trade some optical performance for range. Common drawbacks include slower maximum apertures, reduced sharpness at the extreme ends, more distortion, and greater chromatic aberration compared with prime lenses or shorter zooms. Advances in optical design, coatings, and image stabilization mitigate some issues, and many superzooms now include features such as optical stabilization and fast autofocus, though they often remain compromises relative to specialty zooms or primes.

Usage and market presence: Superzooms are popular with travelers and casual photographers who want a single lens that can handle landscapes, portraits, and distant subjects without changing lenses. They tend to be more affordable and compact than sets of prime lenses or high-end zooms, but their image quality, maximum aperture, and branching distortion may limit professional applications.

Variants and examples: The term is also associated with bridge cameras and certain interchangeable-lens systems, where manufacturers offer all-in-one zooms as standard or optional lenses. The category has evolved with digital imaging, and modern superzooms frequently emphasize portability, versatility, and relative ease of use.