Camera for 10yo

[Annoyed200722]

Hi, we are looking to buy our son a camera for Christmas. We need something that isn't too babyish, but equally, that doesn't cost a fortune, as in two years he'll get a phone and the camera will probably be obsolete. He has really enjoyed using his younger sibling's VTech action cam, but we feel he probably needs something which takes better quality pictures at this stage.

Before I at art hours of research, and end up feeling compelled to spend crazy money or something, can anyone recommend a camper which has been popular, and takes reasonable photos, for a child of this age please?

TIA

Is he a careful child, or is the camera likely to get bumped, dropped etc? The Nikon waterproof tough series like the W100 or W150 has been good for our slightly younger kids. Definitely not babyish, but still a simple point and shoot camera. Unless he want to really get into photography in which case something a few more settings to play around with might be more in order.

I've just bought mine an Fujifilm Instax mini 11. Basically a little Polaroid. He loved his vetch but has grown out of it.

My DC is a couple of years younger than yours, but I was having the same dilemma for her birthday recently. In the end I gave her an old digital camera that I had many moons ago, bought a new case and hand strap for it. She loves it, takes it everywhere! It looks grown up, is small enough to fit into a pocket, and cost hardly anything so I'm not bothered if she breaks/loses it! The photos she takes are mostly boring but there are some that are absolutely hilarious, of the dog, her big sister unawares, the occasional monster poo in the toilet... etc etc.

We got given a Panasonic lumix camera when DS was 4. He's a really careful child and still has it 4 years later. He takes great photos.

We bought the same camera for his 5 year old brother from Ebay at about £15 just before the summer holidays. He's less careful but its still fine. His photos are mostly of his feet but it keeps him happy.

For the spec kids camera are really overpriced and I'd rather take my chances with a second hand proper camera.

He has really enjoyed using his younger sibling's VTech action cam, but we feel he probably needs something which takes better quality pictures at this stage
What does he enjoy about the Vtech? - videos or stills?

Hi @Annoyed200722 Thanks for your post. You may have found the perfect camera for your son already. But just in case, here's a link to our guide to the best cameras for kids. The selections are based on the recommendations of Mumsnet users and consumer reviews. I hope you find it useful, do let us know what you think.

We got one for a similar age and went for something simple with a zoom and decent picture quality. Batteries lasted well and they really enjoyed taking silly photos with friends.

We got one of the kids an action camera last Christmas and it’s been brilliant. It’s small, easy to use, and he loves taking it on his bike and making little videos. It also came with a waterproof case which was great for pool holidays. If your 10-year-old enjoys being outdoors or making fun videos, action cameras could be a really fun option.