best mirrorless travel camera for beginners

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The Best Mirrorless Camera

By Phil Ryan

Phil Ryan is a writer primarily covering photography gear, printers, and scanners. He has been testing cameras professionally for 19 years.

A mirrorless camera can give you better photos than your smartphone can, and it’s the best choice for anyone who wants to learn more about photography.

Everything we recommend

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

The best mirrorless camera for most people.

With this camera’s small size, vast lens selection, built-in stabilization, excellent autofocus, and reliable exposure, you can easily capture great images anywhere.

Buying Options

Upgrade pick.

Fujifilm X-T5

The best mirrorless camera for serious photographers.

This retro-styled, weather-sealed camera is the best APS-C mirrorless camera you can buy, with ample customizable controls, great autofocus, excellent video, built-in stabilization, and outstanding images even in very low light.

The best full-frame mirrorless camera

If you want to step up to a full-frame camera, this model offers the best image quality you can get, along with a tilting touchscreen, dual memory-card slots, and cutting-edge autofocus.

While DSLRs used to be the go-to option for improved image quality, mirrorless cameras have taken over thanks to their increased portability and reduced mechanical complexity.

After more than 220 hours of research and testing over the past seven years, we recommend the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV —a versatile, high-performing mirrorless camera that’s available at a great price.

Its advanced features help it capture reliably great-looking images in all kinds of conditions, and its small size means you’re more likely to carry it with you everywhere.

Although the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV doesn’t offer the absolute best image quality, it captures great-looking images and is a joy to use. But it really stands out from the mirrorless competition thanks to its compact, lightweight design and its low price.

It’s compatible with more lenses than any of our other picks, and all of them work with its impressive built-in image stabilization. The autofocus system locks on to subjects quickly and accurately, and the lock-on remains accurate even in dimly lit situations. Its smartphone app, which enables remote shooting and image transfer, is better than those of most rivals, too.

Because the OM-D E-M10 IV is so small, you’re more likely to bring this camera with you everywhere you go. But despite its small stature, it has a comfy grip, plenty of tactile controls, and a tilting touchscreen, which together make it one of the better-handling cameras in its class.

If you’re serious enough to spend over $2,000 for a camera and lens bundle, the Fujifilm X-T5 is the best choice to bring your photography to a higher level.

The sensor puts out surprisingly clean, detailed, color-accurate images even when you shoot in especially dim lighting. And Fujifilm’s film simulations evoke nostalgic memories through clever application of color and tones, if you opt to use them.

The camera is rugged and weather sealed, has dedicated dials for all of your most-used settings, sports a large electronic viewfinder that gives you a great view of what you’ll get, and captures beautiful 4K video. Plus, its tilting screen and built-in image stabilization make shooting in challenging situations even more manageable than with our top pick.

The full-frame Sony ɑ7 IV delivers the sharpest, cleanest images of any mirrorless camera in its price range, and with its tilting touchscreen, comfortable grip, and easy-to-use controls, it’s a joy to use.

Its excellent battery life and dual memory-card slots are meaningful improvements over what we’ve seen on any other full-frame mirrorless camera under $2,700.

Add its weather sealing, its fast burst shooting, and its AI-powered eye-tracking autofocus system, and the α7 IV is definitely the best full-frame mirrorless camera for your money—if you’re willing to spend this much. Most people don’t need to.

The research

Why you should trust us, who this is for, what you need to know about mirrorless cameras, how we picked and tested, our pick: olympus om-d e-m10 mark iv, upgrade pick: fujifilm x-t5, our full-frame pick: sony ɑ7 iv, other good mirrorless cameras, what to look forward to, the competition.

I’m Wirecutter’s senior staff writer for camera and printer coverage, as well as the former senior technology editor for Popular Photography; prior to that I served as a senior camera editor at CNET.

In my role at Popular Photography, I was in charge of camera and lens testing procedures and personally field-tested all of the cameras, as well as many of the lenses, that the publication covered during my tenure.

I have been covering mirrorless cameras since the very first models were introduced in 2008.

If you want to move beyond the constraints of smartphone photography or are interested in learning what terms like shutter speed, aperture, and ISO mean (and even if you already know), buying a mirrorless camera probably makes sense for you.

Compared with DSLRs, mirrorless cameras are smaller and lighter. And instead of providing an optical viewfinder, which uses a mirror to bounce light that travels through the lens up to your eyeball, mirrorless cameras offer an electronic viewfinder (EVF), which shows a live feed from the sensor. That means you see exactly what you’ll get in the finished photo.

Combined, these factors make mirrorless cameras easier to carry around and less fussy to use than DSLRs, yet mirrorless cameras provide equal or better image quality. And as a bonus, you can easily adapt any film- or DSLR-era lens to any mirrorless camera body, giving new life to vintage equipment.

Sensor size

All else being equal, a larger sensor size generally equates to better image quality.

The sensors in the cameras we recommend here are much larger than those in smartphones. Sensor sizes in mirrorless cameras, in ascending size order, include Four Thirds (as found in our top pick), APS-C (as found in our upgrade pick), full-frame (as found in our also-great pick), and even medium format (which is far too expensive for us to recommend, at least for now).

At equal pixel counts, larger sensors have larger pixels, which gather more light; that reduces image noise (tiny unwanted speckles) and increases detail. They can also produce shallower depth of field, which helps to create dreamier out-of-focus backgrounds but also makes getting your subject correctly in focus more difficult.

Portability

Mirrorless cameras were created to be more portable than digital single-lens reflex cameras. Because camera makers don’t have to incorporate the SLR mirror or other parts associated with moving that mirror up and down, they can design a smaller camera.

Although some newer mirrorless cameras include large grips that make them quite chunky, they’re still smaller and lighter overall (and especially thinner) than equivalent DSLRs.

Unlike DSLRs, mirrorless cameras come in lots of different designs, from DSLR-shaped to rangefinder-styled. As a result, anyone can find a model that suits their style of shooting, and you have plenty of options that are small enough that you won’t think twice about bringing your camera with you wherever you go.

Battery life

With small camera bodies come smaller batteries, which means fewer photos captured per charge.

Camera makers are starting to get better about this—but especially in models aimed at beginners, manufacturers are still sacrificing some battery life in favor of a smaller camera.

For every round of testing, we look at all the mirrorless cameras currently available and take into account not only the needs of the average photographer but also those of people coming from smartphones and experienced photographers seeking to take their hobby to the next level.

We look for the best balance of price and features that are more important to people who are getting serious about learning photography as a hobby:

• High-resolution EVF: An electronic viewfinder that provides a detailed view of your subject makes it easier for you to frame your images and is essential when you’re focusing manually.
• Comfortable grip and ample external controls: It shouldn’t be hard to adapt your shooting to a new situation.
• Tilting or rotating screen: You’re likely to want to take a photo from a strange angle eventually.
• Fast burst-shooting rate: Fast-moving subjects are often best captured in a burst of images.
• Long battery life: You shouldn’t be interrupted too often by the need to switch batteries.
• Second card slot: Whether you want instant backup of your shots, the ability to separate your video and stills storage, or simply the peace of mind that comes from having another card already there when you need it, a second slot is useful.
• Fast, reliable autofocus: Capturing a sharp photo when you want it, and being able to maintain focus on a subject as it moves throughout the frame, is essential.
• Weather sealing: A sunshower or some light rain shouldn’t interrupt a good day of shooting or cause damage to your camera.

We take the cameras out into the streets and parks of New York City and use them with their kit lenses in a wide variety of situations, noting how they function in full auto mode as well as in other shooting modes.

We pay attention to the autofocus system, noting how easily we can choose where to focus and how well the camera can lock focus and track subjects.

We check out the menu systems to see how easily we can find the settings that you might want to adjust (though all mirrorless menu systems are somewhat overwhelming).

We pair each camera with our smartphone to make sure that the connection process is simple, to see how much control over the camera we have when operating it remotely, and to determine whether transferring images to a phone is uncomplicated.

Of course, we also pay close attention to image quality, though all of these cameras can capture beautiful images.

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is the camera we recommend for people seeking the best bang for their buck from a mirrorless camera with semi-professional features.

It’s feature-packed. The E-M10 IV has a fast autofocus system, a high-resolution electronic viewfinder and a movable touchscreen, and the ability to shoot five photos per second until the SD card fills up (if you use a UHS-II card).

The E-M10 IV’s built-in image stabilization can work with any lens you use with it. We also like the camera’s ample physical controls, which let you customize multiple buttons and dials so that the settings you adjust most are just a touch away.

It produces images with plenty of detail and pleasingly vibrant colors. As a Micro Four Thirds camera with a slightly smaller sensor, the E-M10 IV can’t quite match the image quality of larger-sensor competitors such as our upgrade pick and full-frame pick , but it comes close enough that most people wouldn’t be able to see a difference in most photos.

In our tests, images we shot in good light closely matched what we could do with most similarly priced competitors, though the E-M10 IV showed a little more image noise when shooting at higher ISOs.

It’s compatible with a huge array of lenses. As part of the Micro Four Thirds camera system, the E-M10 IV is compatible with more than 100 native lenses—ranging from a 16mm-equivalent fisheye to an 800mm-equivalent zoom—from Olympus, Panasonic, and third-party lens makers such as Sigma, Tamron, and Tokina. That’s far more of a selection than you can find for any of our other picks.

And like other mirrorless cameras, it can use a huge range of vintage lenses via simple mechanical adapters.

Its image stabilization is very effective. The E-M10 IV can move its sensor to reduce the blur caused by shaky hands. In practice, this means you can take sharper photos in dimly lit conditions or when you’re using a lot of zoom.

With the E-M10 IV, we consistently got usably sharp images shooting handheld at shutter speeds that would inevitably produce irretrievably blurred images without stabilization—as slow as ⅓ second when we used a 50mm lens with the E-M10 IV.

It offers excellent ergonomics. After shooting with the E-M10 IV around New York City over the course of a few weeks, we can say that the camera is comfortable to use.

The grip offers an amazing balance of functionality and size, as it’s compact yet prominent enough for you to let the camera dangle securely from your fingers when you’re walking to your next shooting location (even with Olympus’s relatively large 40–150mm f/2.8 Pro lens attached).

The control dials are readily accessible, even when you’re using the viewfinder. Although the camera has only two physical customizable buttons, Olympus gives you plenty of options as to what to assign to them. Plus, you can customize the control panel on the tilting touchscreen to feature just the settings you change most often.

Its smartphone app is better than most. The E-M10 IV’s built-in Wi-Fi support lets you use your iOS or Android smartphone to transfer images and control the camera remotely to a greater degree than you can with cameras from Canon, Fujifilm, Nikon, or Sony.

Beyond setting focus and adjusting exposure settings, you can switch shooting modes, control the zoom on electronically zooming Olympus lenses, and tap your phone screen to set the focus point. You can also adjust burst or timer modes, white balance, ISO, shutter speed, aperture, and exposure compensation.

Its autofocus is quick and accurate. The E-M10 IV’s AF is as fast and accurate as you can expect from any current camera.

In good light, it reliably finds focus almost instantly. As with any AF system, the focus speed slows down in dimmer light, but no more so than on most competitors. In the course of our testing, we never saw any blurry shots resulting from an autofocus error.

Its EVF and its tilting screen make framing shots easy. The E-M10 IV sports a high-resolution OLED viewfinder that lets you hold the camera up to your face—a more stable and immersive way to shoot—while framing your image. It isn’t the best EVF we’ve used (the panels on the high-end Fujifilm X-T5 and Sony ɑ7 IV are better), but it ranks near the top of the class for cameras in this price range.

The 3-inch tilting touchscreen lets you move the autofocus point by touching the screen or even tap to shoot, as you would on a smartphone camera. You can also use the touchscreen as a trackpad for adjusting focus while looking through the viewfinder.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

• The E-M10 IV’s menu system, like most modern camera menus, is annoyingly complicated. But given the complexity of cameras, as well as photographers’ demands for ever-greater control over their cameras, mirrorless cameras will likely never rid themselves of complex menu systems.
• Battery life is another pain point. At just 360 shots per charge, the E-M10 IV’s battery life is notably shorter than what you get from our picks by Fujifilm and Sony (580 and 520 shots, respectively). Be sure to carry an extra battery for longer outings.
• Though the E-M10 IV’s AF system locks focus quickly and accurately on static subjects, its performance is less reliable when it’s trying to track a moving subject. In our tests, the focus point had a tendency to shift to the background when a subject moved around the frame. As a result, you may miss a brief moment when burst shooting, but this issue never prevented us from getting the shot we wanted.
• Although Olympus advertises a burst rate of 8.7 shots per second, this camera isn’t the best choice for fast-paced sports, since you get that speed only if you disable continuous autofocus tracking. With continuous AF, the best you can do is 5 frames per second.

The Fujifilm X-T5 feels like a classic camera living its best life in today’s digital world. Behind its stunning retro looks, you’ll find a plethora of buttons and dials augmented by deep customization and cutting-edge technology. The result is a tool worthy of serious photographers who want to capture professional-looking photos or video in any situation.

The images it produces are stunning. The X-T5’s 40-megapixel sensor—the highest resolution in its class—captures images that you can print at very large sizes, even if you crop them down first. You can make prints of uncropped images up to 32 by 21 inches (at 240 dpi), which is larger than the prints that many professional photographers can make at home.

The film-simulation modes in Fujifilm’s digital cameras look great, and they’re one of the most fun aspects of these image-making machines. They’re designed to mimic the results of the company’s vintage film stock (even some types that have been discontinued), and they often do a better job of creating that classic film look than most of the filter apps that people pay for.

And in addition to the built-in film simulations, you can find dozens of “recipes” that you can add to the camera’s custom shooting menu for even more personalized JPEG looks.

The classic controls leave room for customization. The functions you use the most—shutter speed, ISO (sensitivity), and exposure compensation—are available on dials on the top of the camera. Similarly, you can adjust the aperture settings on Fujifilm’s lenses via a clicky ring, though you can opt to let the camera control it instead, or use one of the customizable command wheels on the camera body.

Changing settings while looking through the viewfinder is fast and easy, and thanks to the dials you can adjust the most important settings before turning the camera on. Controlling the autofocus point is simple, too, thanks to a well-positioned joystick.

The 3-inch touchscreen allows you to tap to focus and shoot and to customize other functions. The screen tilts up and down, as well as to the right for portrait shooting. It doesn’t flip out to the side like the one on its predecessor, the X-T4, or on the Sony ɑ7 IV , so you’re likely to have a tough time vlogging or shooting selfies with the X-T5; if you want to check the framing while you’re in front of the camera, you have to connect your phone.

Superior stabilization makes for sharper photos. By moving the sensor to compensate for hand shakiness, the X-T5 helps you get sharp photos when you’re zooming far or shooting in dim conditions at slow shutter speeds.

Fujifilm claims that the X-T5 can provide up to seven stops of stabilization, and in our testing it reliably gave us six stops. That resulted in sharp photos when we were shooting with an 80mm lens (a 120mm-equivalent field of view) at 1/2 second. Without stabilization, we would want a shutter speed of 1/125 second to get a usable photo when using a lens like that.

Compared with the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV, the Fujifilm X-T5 gave us one stop more of stabilization. That’s also one stop more than we saw in its predecessor, the X-T4.

The battery can last a whole day. With a rating of 580 shots per charge, the X-T5’s battery lasts longer than those of any of our other picks. Most days we were able to get through the whole day without the battery running out.

The battery indicator hit the dreaded red zone after some of our three-and-a-half-hour bird-photography sessions, however. These sessions were especially taxing for the camera, since we kept it in performance boost mode—an optional setting that enhances the autofocus capabilities and raises the EVF’s refresh rate to better capture fast motion.

As always, just to be safe, we suggest carrying at least one extra battery , because everyone forgets to charge sometimes. Another option is to use a portable power bank , since the battery charges via USB-C anyway. (Like many contemporary cameras, the X-T5 doesn’t come with a battery charger in the box, just a wall adapter and a USB-C cable.)

Its smartphone app is useful. After we installed Fujifilm’s Camera Remote app , connecting the camera to a mobile device was simple. Once you register the app with a device, it remembers that camera and reconnects quickly through a combination of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

We easily shot stills and video, changed all of the core camera settings, transferred images, and shared them with friends via the app. We also updated the camera’s firmware through the app without any issues.

Weather sealing can give you peace of mind. Fujifilm touts the X-T5’s 56 weather-sealed points on its website, and we had no problems when we used the camera in the rain. Whereas our top pick, the E-M10 IV, can withstand a light shower, we would trust the X-T5 to shrug off a downpour that would thoroughly drench our clothes.

If you do plan to brave the weather, remember to pair this camera with a weather-resistant lens. Fujifilm puts “WR” in the name of its lenses that are weather-sealed, and most third-party manufacturers note whether their lenses can withstand precipitation and dust storms.

The tilting touchscreen helps at odd angles. Though the touchscreen on the X-T5 doesn’t flip to the side and rotate all the way forward like the X-T4’s did, it can tilt up, down, and toward the right side of the camera.

We think that Fujifilm should’ve stuck with what it had in the X-T4, but unless you’re a vlogger who doesn’t want to use a smartphone to see where you are in the frame before you start and stop recording through the app (which is what we’d do anyway), the limited screen flexibility shouldn’t be a problem.

The EVF looks great. At 3.69 million dots, the X-T5’s 0.5-inch, 0.8x-magnification electronic viewfinder basically matches what you get in Sony’s ɑ7 IV, which is to say that it looks great. We enjoyed using it to frame photos and to zoom in to ensure that our manual focus was correct when we used our Leica-mount manual lenses through an adapter.

Video looks amazing. The 4K footage we shot looked beautiful, and the image stabilization kept it impressively smooth when we shot handheld, even at long focal lengths.

Because this Fujifilm camera is equipped with a sensor that’s larger than the one in our top pick from Olympus, you can expect it to capture video with less noise in darker settings, though the results won’t be quite as clean as with our full-frame pick from Sony. Plus, the 6.2K-resolution option gives you room to spare during editing to crop down to 4K.

If you want to send an HDMI signal to an external recorder, such as an Atomos or Blackmagic device, you can record at up to 6.2K and 30 fps in 12-bit Apple ProRes RAW format or Blackmagic RAW for the most amount of leeway with color grading or other fancy editing tactics. We did not have a compatible recorder on hand to test this function. In-camera, you’re limited to 10-bit (4:2:2) color at 6.2K, which in our experience looked every bit as stunning as the 4K footage we made.

Generally, we don’t think most people need a full-frame camera, but if you want one for its superior image quality and its ability to shoot in very low light, the Sony ɑ7 IV is the best option.

Its image quality is best in class. The ɑ7 IV’s 33-megapixel sensor captures more than enough fine detail to make very large prints, even at high ISO settings that would produce overly noisy images on other full-frame cameras.

The images have more pixels than those of our top pick, but not as many as images from our upgrade pick. However, its images are cleaner than either of theirs thanks to its full-frame sensor.

It has plenty of customizable physical controls. More so than on any of our other picks, the ɑ7 IV’s controls let you quickly and seamlessly access everything you need to reach when you’re shooting.

Included are an autofocus-point control joystick, three customizable dials, a function button that brings you to a quick menu where you can change all of the most important settings, and five customizable buttons for fast access to your most-changed options.

Although the total number of customizable buttons on the ɑ7 IV is comparable to what rivals offer, the breadth of functions you can assign helps the ɑ7 IV stand out.

Its touchscreen display can move into nearly any position. The touchscreen flips out to the side, tilts up and down, and can face the same direction as the lens for selfies.

Even if you prefer to shoot with the viewfinder, you can use the touchscreen as a trackpad and slide your thumb across the screen to move the autofocus point. If you prefer to focus on your subject by touching the screen as you would on your smartphone, you can do that, too, or you can set the camera to also take the picture when you tap your subject.

Its battery lasts longer than most rivals’. One of the biggest drawbacks of mirrorless cameras is their anemic battery life, but the ɑ7 IV offers 520 shots per charge, about 60 shy of our upgrade pick but still impressive considering the larger size of its sensor.

You should still pick up an extra battery , but with a full charge you’ll be able to get through, say, a child’s field hockey game without running out of juice (unless you lean on burst mode more than anyone really should).

Dual card slots ensure that you never lose a shot. The ɑ7 IV’s two SD card slots let you write a backup of everything you capture to a second card—a convenient feature if you’re worried about one of those cards failing and costing you once-in-a-lifetime shots (or paid work).

Alternatively, you can set the camera to move from one card to the next once the first card is full, save video to one and stills to the other, or save JPEGs to one and raw images to the other.

Its autofocus is blazing fast and sticks like glue. The ɑ7 IV’s autofocus is the best of any of the cameras we recommend, and it’s one of the best AF systems we’ve ever encountered in our tests.

It uses AI to help determine what to focus on when it’s set to full auto, zone focusing, or one of its tracking modes. In particular, its face- and animal-tracking modes are likely to astound anyone who hasn’t used a camera with an AI-based AF system: It finds an eye and keeps tracking as long as that eye remains in the frame, even if the subject looks away from the camera as they move around.

In our tests, with the ɑ7 IV in bird-tracking mode , the camera did a similarly impressive job of tracking the eyes of birds even while they were in flight or hopping from branch to branch.

Its burst mode is more than fast enough for most people. The ɑ7 IV’s top burst speed of 10 frames per second (in the Hi+ burst mode) is plenty to capture fast action, including any amateur sports.

The speed dips a bit if you shoot in raw (unless you use a CFexpress card), but even at the slower 6 to 8 fps you get when shooting raw on a SD card, we’ve concluded that these restrictions aren’t onerous for anyone but sports-photography pros.

It can produce clean-looking images in very dim light. People who frequently shoot indoors, or in the evening or early morning, will appreciate that the ɑ7 IV’s ISO range extends all the way to 204,800.

Though that max setting produces lots of noise when you view images at 100% magnification, even picky shooters are likely to agree that the ɑ7 IV can produce extremely nice images up to ISO 25,600. But if your plan is to share images on social media and view them on smartphones, or at a size that doesn’t take up the whole screen, you can feel free to use the entire ISO range.

Video looks great, too. The ɑ7 IV captures extremely good-looking video that’s similar in quality to footage from other full-frame mirrorless cameras.

Topping out at 4K resolution and 60 frames per second, it uses the full width of the sensor to capture video, which it then scales down to 4K footage with a dazzling amount of detail. It can capture HD footage at up to 120 fps, and it can also do 5x slow motion that still looks great on a good home television.

If you want a full-frame camera that uses Nikon’s Z-mount lenses : We think that Nikon’s Z 6II is the best choice for anyone looking for a camera in that system. Its 24.5MP images show plenty of detail, even if they don’t have the sheer resolution of photos from the 33MP Sony ɑ7 IV. Pictures have realistic color, pleasing contrast, and are well-exposed when using Nikon’s automatic settings.

Autofocus proved effective in our tests, with speedy initial focus. And while the Z 6II’s tracking isn’t quite as sophisticated as the ɑ7 IV’s, it’s more than fast and accurate enough for most photographers.

One downside we think most shutterbugs will notice is the relatively anemic battery life. At 400 shots per charge (with power save mode enabled), it’s significantly shorter than the 520 shots you’ll get with the ɑ7 IV. But if you carry an extra battery , that’ll sting a little less.

Video from the Z6 II looks great, but tops out at 4K30p. And while the LCD screen tilts up and down, we’d prefer a fully articulating display for more versatility.

If you want a camera that uses L-mount lenses: Panasonic’s Lumix S5 II is the best option for the L-mount system, which also includes cameras and lenses from Leica and Sigma.

Together, these companies have assembled a growing array of lenses that cover a wide range of needs and budgets.

The S5 II can’t match the autofocus performance of our full-frame pick and upgrade pick . Both of those cameras do a better job of identifying an animal in a scene and tracking along with it, though the S5 II performs pretty well in that regard.

The S5 II has a 24-megapixel full-frame sensor, which might seem a tad low resolution in comparison with the Sony ɑ7 IV’s 33-megapixel sensor and the Fujifilm X-T5’s 40-megapixel sensor, but that’s still enough pixels to make a 25-by-17-inch print as long as you’re not cropping the image.

Nikon has announced the Z 6III , a full-frame 24.5-megapixel camera that we expect will offer stiff competition to the Sony α7 IV thanks to 20 fps burst shooting, high-level subject tracking autofocus, up to 8 stops of in-body image stabilization, and 6K RAW video capture capability.

The weather-sealed body boasts a similar level of control as the Sony, and it offers a screen that flips out to the side and tilts a full 180 degrees, a joystick for AF control, and dual card slots that support SDXC, CF Express type B, and XQD cards. We’ll be testing it soon.

Canon’s EOS R10 and EOS R7 are solid APS-C cameras that make nice photos and videos. They’re light and relatively small, and if you think you’ll only ever want the kit lens and a cheap telephoto zoom to go with it, these cameras might serve your needs well. But at this writing, the Canon system lacks a lot of other common lens options, and you’d likely be just as happy with our top pick, which costs less than either Canon model.

The EOS R8 creates high-quality images and has fast autofocus that can track a wide variety of moving subjects. Plus, its 4K 60 fps video recording is impressive for a camera that you can often find for under $1,500 with a kit lens. But the R8’s battery is only rated to give you 150 shots when shooting with the viewfinder (220 if you use power saving mode), there’s no joystick for changing your AF settings, and there’s only one memory card slot.

We haven’t tried the newer Canon EOS R50 , an APS-C camera that is priced closer to our top pick than the R10, but we think that the larger range of lenses available for the Olympus system makes it a more attractive option.

We ruled out Canon’s EOS R6 Mark II largely because it consistently costs at least $200 more than our full-frame pick, the Sony ɑ7 IV. In addition, Canon’s EOS-R lens lineup is not nearly as extensive as Sony’s EF mount ecosystem, and third-party lens makers have not yet stepped in to help fill the gap.

Canon’s EOS RP was the company’s smallest and lightest full-frame camera when it was introduced in 2019, and it makes great-looking images. But its autofocus system has since been eclipsed by the features in newer cameras, and as we mentioned above, the selection of native lenses isn’t extensive enough. At the EOS RP’s current price, it isn’t a bad option as a smallish basic full-frame camera body if you’d like to use older Canon lenses via an adapter.

Fujifilm’s X-T50 has the same sensor as our upgrade pick, the X-T5, and can make similarly beautiful images, but its body is smaller in every dimension (especially depth). The extra portability is nice, but it comes at the expense of any kind of front grip, which makes it less comfortable to use. We tried SmallRig’s accessory grip and it helped with some lenses (such as Fuji’s 33mm f/1.4) but didn’t leave enough room for our fingers between the lens and grip with girthier lenses (like the 55-200mm zoom). Its smaller battery is also rated to just 304 shots compared to the X-T5’s 580 shots per charge.

We like the X-T50’s dedicated film simulation dial, which made it easier to change and compare film sims, but ultimately the X-T5’s better ergonomics and other advantages—including a 15 fps burst compared to the X-T50’s 8 fps—make it a better pick overall.

The Fujifilm X-T30 II has a very similar design to the X-T50, which means it shares all of the same drawbacks. It also lacks that camera’s film simulation dial and in-body image stabilization, and uses a lower-resolution 26-megapixel sensor. We think that the lower-priced OM-D E-M10 IV likely still makes more sense to most entry-level buyers, especially due to its built-in image stabilization.

Nikon’s Z f gives the innards of the Z 6II a snazzy-looking shell that evokes classic Nikon film cameras, and may also call to mind the look of Fujifilm’s excellent X-series bodies. While it’s undeniably beautiful, and the tactile dials—which click even more satisfyingly than the X-T5’s—provide an enjoyably old-school interface, we found ourselves dearly missing the Z 6II’s grip.

Even compared to the similarly styled X-T5, the Z f is bigger and weighs significantly more, yet provides even less purchase around front. On a recent trip, we were able to extensively test the add-on grip that Nikon offers in conjunction with accessory maker SmallRig, and it went a long way to solving the Z f’s handling issues. But even so, this is a large, heavy mirrorless camera. Those with larger hands and a taste for the angular designs of yesteryear may appreciate that heft, but it seems likely that more will find it tiring over a long day of shooting.

The Nikon Z 50 offers great ergonomics and produces beautiful photos, though it’s a tad expensive for an APS-C mirrorless camera. Like the Canon EOS R lineup, Nikon’s Z-mount lens system is still fairly barebones, especially for its APS-C cameras (though at least you have third-party options to choose from). Ultimately, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV represents a better overall value for most people.

Nikon’s Z 7II , Z 8 and Z 9 all seem like fabulous cameras, but are more powerful than most people need. The Z 9 is a camera specifically made for professional photographers, and at $5,500 without a lens, it’s well beyond the price range of most people who can’t write it off as a business expense. The similar but smaller Z 8 goes for about $5,000 with its kit lens. And the Z 7II costs more than $3,000 when paired with a lens, which is beyond the scope of what we currently test.

We have yet to test the Olympus OM-1 because although it seems like a very capable and robust camera, we’ve concluded that if you’re planning to spend more than $2,000 for a camera body alone, you should look beyond the inherent limitations—especially in terms of low-light performance—of the relatively small Four Thirds sensor. The same can be said for the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III .

With a DSLR-style design, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 isn’t as compact as the Olympus OM-D E-M10 IV. It also costs more. But it’s better for capturing video and for snagging broadcast-quality 4K footage that you can pull stills from, and it has a fully articulated touchscreen and an external-mic input. It’s worth considering for video enthusiasts, but most people will be better served by our top pick.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 is another good option for video-first shooters, offering smooth-looking 4K footage. But its photo quality isn’t quite as good as that of other cameras in its price range, especially in low light. Its battery doesn’t last as long, either, and it doesn’t have a flippable screen for selfies.

Anyone interested in Panasonic’s Lumix S5 would be better served going with the S5 II , because that model’s hybrid autofocus system is a noticeable improvement over the S5’s sometimes-wobbly, contrast-only AF.

We were impressed with the full-frame Panasonic Lumix S9 ’s compact design, and enjoyed the ability to create and apply custom visual styles (using lookup tables, or LUTs) via the Lumix Lab app. We liked the S9’s video quality, and also appreciated the versatility of Panasonic’s open gate setting, which records the video output of the entire sensor so you can use whatever aspect ratio you want. It also allows you to create multiple versions of a video with different aspect ratios after the footage has been captured.

But due to its unusually small size, the S9 doesn’t feel very well balanced with Panasonic’s current lenses. (The company says that it plans to add more compact lenses to its lineup eventually.) The camera is also missing a hot shoe, flash, and viewfinder—with no way to add any of them.

The Sony α7C II uses the same sensor as the Sony α7 IV , but has a smaller body reminiscent of the company’s APS-C cameras. It also has lower-resolution EVF and LCD screens, a single SD card slot, and no joystick to move the AF point or navigate through menus. It’s geared toward video capture, with a dedicated recording button and a shape that lends itself to use with a video rig.

We liked its video quality (despite some rolling shutter issues on faster pans) and were impressed with its AF tracking capabilities, but we ultimately feel that the α7 IV is a more well-rounded camera.

The Sony α7 III remains a wonderful mirrorless camera, with a plenty-adequate 24-megapixel sensor and fast burst shooting. It also has much better battery life than the α7 IV. But we’ve concluded that the newer camera’s improvements make it worth the extra money for people who are ready to spend on a full-frame body.

This article was edited by Ben Keough and Erica Ogg.

Meet your guide

Phil Ryan is Wirecutter’s senior staff writer for camera coverage. Previously, over 13 years he covered cameras and other photo-related items for CNET and Popular Photography. As the latter's tech editor and then senior tech editor, he was responsible for maintaining and refining the lab testing for cameras, and as the main camera tester,  he used and wrote reviews of many of the cameras released in that timeframe.

Further reading

Why We Don’t Recommend Buying a New DSLR Camera

by Phil Ryan

If you’re buying a new camera, look for a mirrorless model—most camera makers aren’t developing DSLRs anymore.

What My Vintage Digital Camera Obsession Has Taught Me

by Ben Keough

Before you go digging for hidden gems in the graveyard of digital camera history, heed these warnings.

The First Nikon Z-Mount Mirrorless Lenses You Should Buy

If you’re new to Nikon’s mirrorless Z-mount camera system, these are the first lenses you should consider adding to your arsenal.

The Best Camera Cleaning Gear

by Tim Barribeau and Ben Keough

Like anything, lenses and cameras need to be cleaned, and this gear will help you clean them properly.

The 5 Best Beginner Mirrorless Cameras in 2024

Table of Contents

When you’re looking for the best beginner mirrorless camera, things can seem a little overwhelming.

There are so many brands, makes and models to choose from.

In this article, I’m going to narrow it down to just five best mirrorless cameras from four brands.

The best mirrorless cameras on this list are all reasonably priced for beginners and are the perfect way to get into  ‘real’  photography. They are all interchangeable lens mirrorless cameras and have the features you need to master if you want to become a fully-fledged photographer, whether that’s as an enthusiast or a pro-in-the-making.

Key Highlight s

• I recommend mirrorless cameras over DSLRs and compacts.
• The Fujifilm X-S20 is my favorite beginner mirrorless camera.
• Consider functionality, price, size and weight when choosing a beginner mirrorless camera.

WHY MIRRORLESS?

Why should you consider a mirrorless camera, especially for travel photography?

Well, primarily because of their size.

Smaller size and less weight

They are smaller and lighter than DSLRs which is essential for anyone who travels. If you follow travel photographers on social media, you’ll probably see that most of them are shooting on mirrorless cameras.

Not only are they smaller and lighter, but the image quality modern mirrorless camera produce is every bit as good as DSLRs. In some cases even better.

But there’s more.

More frames per second (FPS)

Mirrorless cameras, unsurprisingly, don’t have a mirror inside them. In DSLRs, there is a mirror mechanism that flips up every time you take a photo. The mirror basically allows you to look in the viewfinder and see through your lens. Obviously, it needs to move out of the way when taking a photo so you sensor can ‘see’ through the lens.

This diagram shows a cross section of a typical DSLR. Number 1 is the lens, 2 is the mirror that flaps up and down, and 8 is the optical viewfinder itself. Credit: Colin M.L. Burnett

Mirrorless cameras don’t have this mechanism. When you look through the electronic viewfinder part of a mirrorless camera you are effectively looking at a tiny screen.

By doing away with a mechanical mirror that needs to physically flap open and closed every time you take a shot, means mirrorless cameras can shoot more images quicker.

For example, one of Canon’s top-of-the-line DSLRs, the  5D Mark IV , can shoot up to 7 fps. Whereas Sony’s top of the line mirrorless camera, the  A1 , can shoot up to a blistering 30 fps (that’s pretty much video!).

So, anyone who is interested in shooting sports or fast-paced action should really consider going mirrorless.

Electronic viewfinders

This one divides photographers.

Mirrorless cameras have  electronic viewfinders (EVFs)  which, as I mentioned earlier, are like little screens that you put your eye up to. The light coming into the lens isn’t actually being reflected up into your eye as it would be on a DSLR.

This has two benefits.

The first benefit is that you get a preview of things like exposure in real-time as you are seeing the image.

And the second is that it reduces, or totally eliminates, viewfinder blackout. Viewfinder blackout is when the screen goes black for a second while taking a photo. The blackout is caused by the mirror in a DSLR flapping up and down. When you’re shooting lots of photos in quick succession it gets very irritating.

Silent shooting

Another advantage of mirrorless cameras is that they give you the ability to shoot in total silence.

Mirrorless cameras do still have a physical shutter that flips open and closed, but you also get the option to shoot using what is called an electronic shutter.

Using the electronic shutter mode, as well as not having the clunky mirror flapping up and down, means that each time you take a photo it’s total silent. Great for event photographers and particularly useful for weddings when you don’t want to ruin the moment by making lots of noise.

THINGS TO LOOK OUT FOR WHEN CHOOSING THE BEST BEGINNER MIRRORLESS CAMERA

When you’re on the hunt for the best beginner mirrorless camera there are a few important things to look out for.

Manual mode

The first thing any digital camera should be able to do if you really want to learn and become better at photography is give you manual access to all of the settings.

In order to become a fully fledged photographer you need to practice setting things like aperture, shutter speed, ISO, white balance and focus yourself.

Ability to change lenses

Different lenses yield different results. When people ask what camera you used to take a certain photo, a more appropriate question should be what lens did you use?

To get the best results in any kind of photography, you need to be able to use the right interchangeable lens camera for the job. You should only consider  mirrorless  or DSLR interchangeable lens cameras as a beginner.

It might seem obvious but when you’re first starting out in photography you probably don’t want to spend thousands on a camera. Not until you know you like it anyway.

Finding the right balance between price and features is all part of the game as a beginner in photography. But that’s why I’m writing this article, to help you decide.

We’ll get onto specific cameras in a minute.

Sensor size

For shooting stills, in other words photography, your best option is either what’s called a full-frame or APS-C camera.

This refers to the size of the sensor . Full-frame sensor cameras have larger sensors than APS-C cameras. The  full-frame vs APS-C debate  has been raging on for quite some time now but, personally, I prefer modern APS-C cameras.

Full-frame cameras tend to be more expensive and their lenses tend to be bigger and heavier than their APS-C counterparts.

Which is why for beginners, particularly beginners who are interested in travel photography, I always recommend APS-C cameras.

And if you get a good modern APS-C camera, in most circumstances there isn’t really a need to go full-frame, ever.

For me, the space and weight saving totally outweighs any benefits full-frame cameras bring to the table.

Even smaller sensors, like Micro Four Third ones, can get the job done. So long as you understand its limitations, particularly in low-light situations.

Battery life

Battery life obviously varies from camera to camera. But, in general, battery life in mirrorless cameras tends to be better than the battery life in DSLR cameras. This could be because mirrorless cameras have fewer moving parts inside them, but is also probably down to the fact battery technology has improved in recent years and most manufacturers have stopped (or slowed down) developing their DSLR ranges.

HERE ARE THE BEST BEGINNER MIRRORLESS CAMERAS CURRENTLY ON THE MARKET

The following five mirrorless cameras are the five I would recommend to beginners looking to get into photography.

Each camera body also has its pros and cons, but they would all be great as first cameras to help you learn photography. Not only will they help you learn though, but they actually produce stunning images.

1) Fujifilm X-S20

The  Fujifilm X-S20  is a great small, compact and lightweight camera. It packs a real punch.

Fujifilm design all of their mirrorless cameras in a retro style that you’d be forgiven for thinking meant they were outdated. But that couldn’t be further from the truth. 

The X-S20 is built like a tank from a mixture of metal and high-quality plastics, has great battery life and superb ergonomics. The dials give you full control of the camera’s settings without having to dive into the menu which is why most Fuji shooters fell in love with the brand.

In the meantime, you can’t go wrong with the Fujifilm X-S20 !

• Great value
• Ergonomic and tactile dials
• Exceptional image quality
• Video features somewhat lacking

Some of the Fujifilm X-S20’s important specs

2) fujifilm x-t100.

The next camera on this list is another Fuji, the  Fujifilm X-T100 .

Although it is a step down from the X-S20 in terms of performance, its price reflects that. While the image quality isn’t as good as its cousin, the X-S20 , it still has all of the features you need to master on your journey to  becoming a travel photographer .

Like all Fujifilm cameras, it looks cool and its build quality is second to none.

The X-T100 does have one main feature the X-S20 doesn’t have though. A flip-out screen. Great for people who like to take selfies and vloggers.

While we’re talking about vloggers we should mention its video capabilities. Vloggers might get excited about its ability to shoot in 4K, and then quickly disappointed to find out it only does that in 15p. The 4K footage it produces is pretty much unusable in most cases. Just something worth noting.

• Excellent build quality
• Somewhat outdated now and has less features than the Fujifilm X-S10

Some of the Fujifilm X-T100’s important specs

3) canon eos r10.

The  Canon EOS R10  is an entry-level mirrorless camera that is often described as a gateway into the world of Canon.

Canon does now offer full-frame mirrorless cameras but even the cheapest is outside of most beginner photographers’ budgets.

The build quality of the R10 is good, not quite like the Fujis, but it feels solid.

Canon’s EOS R10 is an affordable entry-level mirrorless camera with a 24MP APS-C sensor, designed to attract aspiring photographers and videographers. It offers greater creative control over exposure, focal lengths, a robust autofocus system and burst rates, making it an appealing choice for those looking to move away from smartphones, but with a simple, easy-to-use interface for beginners.

Like the Fujifilm X-T100 , it also has a flip out screen which, as well as having an external microphone input, is why it has become a firm favourite with YouTubers.

• Great easy-to-use menu system
• Excellent autofocus system
• Excellent lens option available that you can use on higher-end Canon cameras if/when you upgrade
• Lacks some advanced features, but it is entry-level at the end of the day

Some of the Canon EOS R10’s important specs

4) sony a6600.

Sony has historically dominated the beginner mirrorless camera market.

The  Sony a6600  is one of the more expensive mirrorless cameras on this list and is Sony’s flagship model in their beginner-friendly a-series lineup. There are cheaper options in this lineup, such as the Sony a6400 , but the a6600 delivers so many pro-level features I think the additional cost is justified in this case.

The a6600 originally came out in 2019 so it’s not a new camera, far from it. And there have been newer versions released since then. But it was a great camera in 2019, and it’s still a great camera today.

In terms of upgradability (that’s a word, right?) the Sony a6600 is on to a winner. It uses the E-mount, which means any lens that you buy for the a6600 will work on any other Sony E-mount camera.

And there are A LOT of them!

If you buy this camera as a beginner camera and then decide to upgrade to one of Sony’s full-frame cameras like the beast that is the  Sony A7R IV , you’ll be able to use all of the lenses you have collected.

• Has some pro-level features
• Great for video as well as photos
• Excellent range of lenses available
• Personally, I don’t like the ergonomics and the way it feels in-hand

Some of the Sony a6600’s important specs

5) om system om-5.

Like the Fujis, the  OM System OM-5  goes for the retro look, and I personally love it.

The difference between this camera and the other four cameras on this list is the sensor size. The OM System OM-5 uses a  Micro Four Thirds (M4/3)  sensor which is smaller than the APS-C sized sensors in the others I’ve mentioned.

The main drawback to micro four thirds sensor cameras is the reduced dynamic range meaning they are generally inferior in low-light situations.

However, the size and weight of their interchangeable lenses, are considerably less than other cameras. Making them great cameras for travel photography.

The OM System OM-5 also features 5-ixis in-body image stabilization (IBIS) which, for a camera in this price range, is a luxury you don’t often get.

• Compact and great build quality
• Micro four thirds sensor
• Avergae dynamic range

Some of the OM System OM-5’s important specs

If i had to pick just one of these as the best beginner mirrorless camera, i would choose this one….

I would personally choose the  Fujifilm X-S20 as the best beginner mirrorless camera.

Everyone is different but in my opinion, the Fuji is the perfect balance between price and specs.

The physical dials that allow you to control its settings really help people who are learning. It allows you to take a more hands-on approach instead of spending time flicking through complicated menus.

Fujifilm is known for producing some of the best lenses on the market. When you pair Fuji glass with a camera as capable as the X-S20 , you get results even pros would be happy with.

Image quality is tack sharp and dynamic range is great for an APS-C camera.

Being able to record 4K video internally is another powerful feature of this lightweight camera. On top of that, battery life is excellent!

All-in-all, any camera on this list would make a great first entry-level mirrorless camera for beginners.

But for me, the best beginner mirrorless camera top spot goes to the Fujifilm X-S20 .

BEST MIRRORLESS CAMERAS FOR ALL LEVELS

Feel like you’re ready to take a step up and want an intermediate or professional mirrorless camera? Check out this article where I cover cameras for beginner, intermediate and professional photographers.

Best full-frame mirrorless camera for beginners

In this article I’ve talked about APS-C cameras only, as they allow beginners to get into photography with the latest technology at a lower price point. But, when it comes to the best full-frame mirrorless camera for beginners, the Canon EOS R takes the top spot. This camera is a superb choice for those just starting out in the field of photography. It offers a perfect blend of ease of use, high-quality image production, and a robust set of features that can grow with you as you develop your photography skills.

The Canon EOS R is built around a 30.3 megapixel full-frame sensor, providing stunning image quality that surpasses many of its competitors. It also features an impressive autofocus system with 5,655 manually selectable AF points, ensuring sharp and accurate images every time.

BEST OVERALL TRAVEL CAMERA

In this article we’ve talked about what I think are the top mirrorless cameras for beginners. But, if you want a HUGE in-depth look at the best travel cameras, from DSLR cameras to mirrorless cameras, action cameras, micro four thirds sensor cameras and more, I’ve put together the ultimate guide you wont want to miss.

Check out my Best Camera for Travel (Every Budget and Type) guide to find out more.

Thanks for reading, and good luck in your search for your next camera!

I’m a professional travel photographer, and I’ve been living the digital nomad lifestyle since 2016. I make money by working on client assignments, selling stock photography and helping other photographers by sharing my experiences on this website. I move around at my own pace (I hate fast-paced travel) and like to spend a few months getting to know each place I base myself in.

My writing and photos have been featured on industry leading websites such as Digital Photography School , Atlas Obscura and the world’s leading underwater photography resource The Underwater Photography Guide . I authored an eBook called “ Breaking Into Travel Photography: The complete guide to carving out a career in travel photography ” that has been published on Amazon. My stock images have also appeared in ads promoting destinations and companies that sometimes has been a surprise, even to me. But I guess that’s the nature of stock photography, you never know who will license them!

I’m always happy to connect, so feel free to reach out!

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6 Best Mirrorless Cameras for Travel in 2024

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Whether you’re a roving reporter or a sun-seeker, the best mirrorless camera for travel helps you capture memorable images on the go.

It’s best if you have a camera that’s compact, lightweight, and easy to carry. But you don’t want to compromise on photo or video performance. That’s why the best travel cameras are portable and powerful!

The Nikon Z50 is our choice as the best mirrorless camera for travel. It’s a compact APS-C mirrorless camera with excellent features for photography and videography. It’s beginner-friendly yet high-performance. And you can select the best travel glass from Nikon’s Z-range of lenses.

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What Is the Best Mirrorless Camera for Travel?

The best mirrorless camera for travel should be portable but still produce eye-catching media. This is why the Nikon Z50 , Canon EOS R8 , and Fujifilm X100V are our top three recommendations.

Traveling is always a huge source of inspiration. And to capture the wondrous sights in all their glory, you need a reliable camera. For this reason, mirrorless cameras are perfect travel companions.

They are lighter and more compact than DSLR cameras. And they have more well-rounded features. As we’ll see in our list, many mirrorless models are complete hybrid cameras . This means they produce high-quality photographs and videos.

You also have a wider selection of mirrorless cameras available than DSLRs. Manufacturers are going full steam ahead with their mirrorless lines while phasing out DSLRs . Now’s the time to invest in a mirrorless travel camera!

Here’s a quick rundown of all the best cameras for travel with some pro points. We look at each camera in more detail in the section after. And we have an FAQ section at the end if you need more information about travel cameras and gear .

• High-quality images with 20.9 MP sensor
• Compact and lightweight, perfect for travel
• Excellent low-light performance with high ISO
• "Selfie" flip-down LCD touchscreen for vlogging
• Ease of sharing with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
• Exceptional 24.2 MP full-frame sensor
• Compact design with advanced functionality
• Versatile 24–50mm zoom lens option
• Built-in OLED EVF, vari-angle LCD touchscreen
• Outstanding 4K recording with oversampled 6K
• 26.1 MP sensor for superior image quality
• Advanced Hybrid Viewfinder to capture the perfect shot
• Tilting LCD touchscreen for intuitive controls, framing
• Weather-sealing option for tough conditions
• Stunning 4K video and super slow-motion footage

• 4K/60p 6K oversampled recording
• Pack a powerful 26 MP APS-C sensor
• Superior image quality with BIONZ XR processing
• AI and Real-Rime Recognition for precision tracking
• Lightweight, perfect for creative adventures

• High-quality images with 20 MP 4/3 Live MOS sensor
• Compact, lightweight for easy portability
• Provides 1,053 high-precision focus points
• Advanced high-res, ND, focus-stacking, HDR features
• Dustproof, splashproof, freezeproof

• Incredible 40 MP X-Trans 5 HR sensor
• Pixel-Shift Multi-Shot mode for 160 MP files
• Fast, action-freezing shutter speeds up to 1/180,000 s
• 7-stop in-body image stabilization
• Records up to 6.2K in 4:2:2 10-bit color internally

6 Best Mirrorless Cameras for Travel

Now, we look at all the best mirrorless cameras for travel in more detail. We’ve included a wide range of mirrorless cameras  so everyone can find the best camera for them.

We have beginner-friendly APS-C cameras and full-frame models for more experienced travelers. It’s a short but optimized list of the best cameras for travel.

1. Nikon Z50

The Nikon Z50 takes the top spot as the best mirrorless camera for travel. It won’t be the right camera for every travel photographer. But its beginner-friendly design and feature set give it broad appeal. Even the most cynical users will be impressed by its results.

Its lightweight and compact body make it an easy fit for any travel camera backpack . Its decent level of environmental sealing protects the camera in dry or humid conditions. And it can even withstand light rain showers.

Nikon’s DX-format (APS-C) sensor produces lovely 20.9 MP images. While that resolution isn’t record-breaking, the image quality is fantastic. The images are bright and vibrant. And you get a low level of digital noise when working at higher ISO settings.

You can also enhance your travel photos on the go using the in-camera effects and filters. You don’t need a computer or photo editing software. It’s easy to add the filters in the camera’s interface and then send them to your smartphone using Wi-Fi connectivity.

With 4K video features, the Z50 is also a great camera for travel vloggers . It offers a frame rate of 30 fps (frames per second) at full resolution. And the flip-down screen makes it easy to record yourself. Webcam functionality lets you live stream or video call loved ones back home.

Face- and eye-detection autofocus (AF) is ideal for capturing environmental portraits as you pass through exotic places. The AF also tracks moving subjects and works well in low-light situations.

As you can see, this entry-level Nikon has plenty to offer the enthusiastic traveler. It’s also an affordable mirrorless camera . You can buy a brand new Z50 with a versatile kit lens .

2. Canon EOS R8

We’re confident in promoting the Canon EOS R8 as the best full-frame camera for travel. First, it’s one of the most compact and lightweight cameras . Second, it’s weather-sealed and rugged. Third, it has incredible features for photography and video.

You’ll find plenty of full-frame cameras with higher resolutions than 24.2 MP. But the R8 still captures the world around it with accuracy and vitality. The larger pixel size gives you a better dynamic range, meaning you get more detail from bright and dark areas.

A wide ISO range gives you plenty of flexibility with your exposure settings. Low-light performance is excellent, with very little noise. And you have a 50 ISO range for sunny days, helping you maximize picture quality.

This Canon camera is also a great option for traveling videographers. Its 4K video footage is sharp and crystal-clear, and its 60 fps frame rate at full resolution enhances the footage further. The 4K video is uncropped and has no 30-minute time limit.

When working in Full HD, you have faster frame rates, including a 180 fps mode for super-smooth slow-motion videos. You also have ports for external sound devices, like microphones. And the flexible vari-angle touchscreen helps you film from any angle.

The 100% AF frame coverage gives you incredible accuracy when focusing. It can detect heads, faces, and eyes, even working with cats, dogs, and other animals. And the advanced subject tracking helps you capture those more hectic moments.

The lack of image stabilization is disappointing. And there’s only one memory card slot. That means you’ll have to carry plenty of spare SD cards in a secure memory card case.

The EOS R8 is brilliantly versatile, delivering for photographers and videographers. It’s the perfect camera for the globe-trotting multimedia producer. And it’s the best Canon mirrorless camera for travel.

You need a slightly bigger budget to buy the R8 instead of the Z50 . But it’s worth it if you want a full-frame mirrorless camera that does almost everything ! There is also a versatile 16-50mm lens kit version you can buy.

3. Fujifilm X100V

There are many different types and styles of travel photography. Travel street photography is one of the most popular. If that’s how you like to shoot when traveling, we recommend the Fujifilm X100V .

Okay, the X100V isn’t exactly a mirrorless camera. Due to its fixed lens and rangefinder design, it’s more of a compact camera. But it’s packed with some of Fujifilm’s best mirrorless technology. And it’s such a great travel camera that we can’t leave it off our list.

The first thing you might notice is the stylish retro design. There’s no denying it looks fabulous. And that fixed lens has a 23mm focal length, giving you a lovely wide-angle field of view. It also has an f/2 max aperture, so the low-light performance is good too.

Unlike your standard compact camera, this Fujifilm camera packs a powerful 26.1 MP APS-C sensor. A quad-core X-Processor 4 processing engine backs this, and together, they make a formidable team.

The image quality is truly breathtaking. It beats many other interchangeable-lens cameras in this category.

Fujifilm’s unique film simulation modes give images a retro look that matches the camera’s design. These modes have special filters for some of Fujifilm’s most famous film stocks. Thus, you get the classic film aesthetic without the hassle and expense of using an analog camera.

Analog cameras can’t shoot sharp 4K video, but the Fujifilm X100V can. It even records 10-bit 4:2:2 color via the HTML port. And you have slow-motion frame rates in Full HD quality. You can even apply the film simulation effects to your high-res video footage.

Manual on-body controls round out the retro camera style, giving you a more traditional, hands-on experience. The camera is a bit heavy for its size, weighing 1.05 lb (478 g). But the build quality is exceptional, and the weather sealing gives you peace of mind when shooting outdoors.

The Fujifilm X100V is proving evermore popular with street and travel photographers. Its weight is a problem if you like traveling light. And its price means you must take extra care when you travel through dangerous countries. But those who buy one rarely regret it.

4. Sony a6700

The a6700 is the perfect travel camera if you’re a filmmaker with a severe case of wanderlust. It has all the camera features for vlogging and streaming. Its video quality is good enough for professional travel videographers. But it’s pretty good for still photography, too.

We’ve grown accustomed to mirrorless cameras with 4K video . But not all 4K video is equal. The Sony a6700 produces 4K video superior to most of its rivals despite its compact size and light weight. The video quality is sharp and clear.

The video is also uncropped and has no time limit other than battery power. It uses 10-bit 4:2:2 color sampling, enhancing the quality even further. It even gives you faster frame rates, like a 120 fps option at full resolution. That’s spectacular 4K slow-motion footage!

You can leave your camera gimbal at home when traveling with this Sony mirrorless . It has five-axis image stabilization and gyroscopic video stabilization. So you can shoot hand-held without fear of camera shake ruining the shot.

A 26 MP resolution sensor means you can also snap gorgeous travel shots. The expanded ISO range gives you excellent flexibility in variable conditions. And there is very little noise at the top end. There’s even a 50 ISO setting for those bright sunny days.

A 759-focus-point AF system is impressive for an APS-C mirrorless. The speed and accuracy are outstanding. And the subject detection and tracking work well in low-light situations. Face- and eye-detection help you snap portraits of the people you meet on your travels.

The battery life is excellent, even when shooting 4K videos. It’s compatible with fast UHS-II SD cards, which is another bonus for videographers. The weather-sealing makes it a durable camera for adventurous media makers .

The Sony a6700 is the definition of a hybrid camera. The videography and photography features are impressive by any standards. And the size and durability make it one of the best mirrorless cameras for travel.

5. Olympus OM System OM-5

The Olympus OM System OM-5 is compact, rugged, and packed with features. It might only have a small Micro Four Thirds camera sensor, but it holds its own compared to other mirrorless cameras.

It’s a great camera for producing high-quality video content . And overall performance belies its compact size. A 20 MP resolution gives you lovely image quality with a true-to-life color rendition.

But if 20 MP isn’t enough, you can switch to the high-res shot mode for more. It creates a composite of several exposures, giving you stunning 50 MP images. You can even use this mode without a tripod!

You can also play with the camera’s built-in HDR mode. It works similarly, using several exposures for one image. The camera combines them, so you don’t need a computer or editing software. The same goes for the focus stacking mode.

Five-axis image stabilization gives you even better control over your exposure settings. And an advanced 1053-point AF system keeps everything in focus. It handles human faces well and tracks fast-moving subjects.

Recording 4K video at 30 fps means this OM System camera is a great choice for video makers. The rotating touchscreen helps you shoot vlogs or streams. And you can hook it up with external audio devices like microphones.

It even has a vertical video mode. This helps you produce social media-optimized video content.

USB charging is a big bonus on a travel camera. It means you can charge up whenever you find a cafe or social venue. You can also take a portable power bank to keep yourself topped up at all times.

The Olympus OM System OM-5 is a rugged mirrorless camera. It’s weather-sealed against rain and dust. And it even works in sub-zero temperatures, which is good news for Arctic explorers.

You can take this camera anywhere, and it will still work. This is exactly what you need from the best travel camera!

6. Fujifilm X-T5

The Fujifilm X-T5 is one of the most powerful APS-C mirrorless cameras ever. Its retro-style body design looks fabulous and is reasonably compact. This Fujifilm camera is ideal for travel photographers who want high-resolution images.

A 40.2 MP resolution would be impressive enough on a full-frame camera. But on an APS-C model, it’s truly breathtaking. The level of detail is intense, and the colors have a deep richness. This is perfect for capturing the sights as you navigate the globe.

The expanded high ISO setting of 51,200 is somewhat limited. But the camera’s low-light performance is generally strong . It also has a 64 ISO low setting, helping you get the most out of the 40.2 MP sensor.

You’re also not only limited to 40.2 MP. The X-T5 takes picture quality to a whole new level with the Pixel-Shift Multi-Shot mode. It creates a composite of several exposures using the image stabilization system. And the final result is a phenomenal 160 MP image.

The video specs are just as impressive, with 6.2K video resolution and 10-bit 4:2:2 color rendering. Video recording at 6.2K is limited to a 30 fps frame rate. But you can shoot at 60 fps in 4K, which is uncropped, and there’s no time limit. It also doubles as a high-resolution webcam.

In-body stabilization helps keep your images sharp and your videos shake-free. The advanced AF system also recognizes subjects like humans, animals, cars, and airplanes!

A strong 580-shot battery life keeps you snapping for hours on end. Using the Pixel-Shift mode or recording in 6.2K drains the battery quickly. But the USB charging capability lets you top up on the go.

The Fujifilm X-T5 might be overkill for some travel photographers. But if you want incredible high-resolution travel images, this camera delivers . It’s also weather-sealed, so it’s rugged enough for a life chasing horizons.

Best Cameras and Gear for Travel FAQs

One key to successful travel photography is getting the right gear. Of course, a good travel camera is the top priority. But that’s not the only equipment you need before you set off. Here is some info on other gear a travel photographer might need .

What’s the Best Compact Camera for Travel?

True compacts like the Panasonic Lumix ZS200 are brilliant travel companions. You can carry the ZS200 in your pocket—it’s that small! Yet it offers 20 MP images from a one-inch sensor and 4K video recording.

As a compact or point-and-shoot camera , it has a fixed lens. It’s a Leica lens, so the optical quality is excellent. And it gives you a 15x optical zoom for incredible versatility.

Vloggers and travel video makers might prefer the Sony ZV-1 II . With 4K video, a built-in microphone, and a rotating LCD screen, it has everything a vlogger needs. It even has special cinematic vlogging modes to help your content stand out.

We included the Fujifilm X100V on our list. It’s technically a compact camera. But it’s a bigger camera and has more features in common with a mirrorless camera.

If you want a smaller travel camera, see our full article for all the best compact cameras for travel . These pocket-sized machines are perfect for international travel. And they are all-in-one units, so there’s no need for extra gear like lenses.

What’s the Best Travel Camera Backpack?

If you’re traveling with a lot of high-end camera gear, we recommend the Manfrotto PRO Light Multiloader . We reviewed and scored 18 of the best camera backpacks , and the Multiloader came out on top.

This camera backpack has everything a photographer needs. It has plenty of storage space for your gear and extra pockets and pouches for other essentials. It has padded shoulder straps, a chest strap, and back padding for added comfort.

Exceptional build quality gives you peace of mind. It can endure a lot of tension and strain, so you know this backpack won’t fall apart on the first trip.

Every little detail has been thought through. Nothing is random or there for the sake of it. It’s one of the most well-designed camera backpacks a photographer can buy.

Read our in-depth review of the PRO Light Multiloader .

If you want something smaller for day trips, the Wandrd Duo Daypack is the perfect solution. Its overall quality is brilliant, and the durable materials make it a robust day bag. The outer nylon is waterproof, and rubber-covered zippers create a weather-sealed cocoon for gear.

It has a sleek and subtle design. It doesn’t look like a camera backpack, so you’re not making yourself an easy target for thieves in dangerous countries. But it also protects your camera equipment.

There’s also a unique “pop camera cube” for your mirrorless. And there are extra padded pockets for lenses and other photography accessories.

Check out our full Duo Daypack review for a detailed look at this fabulous camera backpack.

Every travel photographer needs a reliable camera backpack to carry their gear. It’s best not to travel with a mirrorless camera unless you have a spacious and protective camera backpack .

What’s the Best Travel Tripod?

The K&F Concept Lightweight Tripod is the perfect option for travelers. It weighs 2.4 lb (1.1 kg) with a folded size of 15.3 inches (39 cm), making it easy to attach to your camera backpack.

It’s also a strong tripod with a maximum load capacity of 17.6 lb (8 kg). That’s enough for any mirrorless cameras on our list, even if you’re using larger lenses.

Telescopic legs and a ball head give you excellent mounting flexibility. An Arca-Swiss-type quick-release plate makes mounting and dismounting the camera super easy. And it’s a versatile tripod you can take anywhere.

Traveling with lots of gear can be a pain. So you have to make sacrifices when choosing what to take with you. But even if you’re traveling light, you can still pack a handy travel tripod .

Conclusion: Best Mirrorless Camera for Travel

The best mirrorless camera for travel is compact and lightweight but still delivers eye-catching media. And all the cameras we’ve listed today hit that brief. Whether you’re shooting stills or video, a travel camera on our list will meet your needs.

The Nikon Z50 is our top mirrorless camera for travel. It has a compact camera body that’ll fit in any camera backpack. You get gorgeous photographs and video footage. And it has creative features for curious travel photographers.

More experienced photographers prefer the EOS R8 with its full-frame sensor and advanced features. Street-style travel photographers will love the X100V . Traveling videographers should consider the a6700 . There’s a mirrorless travel camera for everyone!

The best mirrorless camera for 2024: top picks for every budget

The best mirrorless cameras from Sony, Canon, Nikon and more

• 1. Best overall
• 2. Best beginner
• 3. Best professional
• 4. Best for video
• 5. Best crop-sensor
• 6. Best retro
• 7. Best value
• 8. Best pro hybrid
• 9. Best medium format
• 10. Best beginner hybrid
• 11. Best for action
• How to choose
• How we test

We've spent countless hours testing mirrorless cameras and one thing is clear: the best mirrorless camera is the one that fits your needs and budget. In creating the guide below, we've tried to include a top pick for every type of photographer, from entry-level stills cameras to flagship hybrids.

From our in-depth tests, our personal favorite is the Nikon Z6 III . We think its performance and features, including powerful 6K specs and precise subject detection autofocus, make it one of the best Nikon cameras . But we also know it might be more or less than you need.

We've put together this guide to make it easy for you to get honest answers when deciding which mirrorless camera to buy. We've shot with each model to get a genuine understanding of how they feel and perform in a range of photography scenarios. You'll find the results summarized here, explaining exactly what makes these mirrorless cameras worthy of a recommendation.

Top 3 picks

The summary below will give you an instant overview of the best mirrorless camera options for every photographer. When you find one that ticks the right boxes, you can follow the links beneath each entry to jump down to our full write-ups.

The best full-frame for most people

A superb blend of power and reliability for both photo and video creatives, the Z6 III excels in almost every situation.

Read more below

The best choice for beginners

With modern autofocus and good handling, the EOS R10 is a versatile mirrorless powerhouse that's perfectly suited for beginners.

The best for pros

The A7R V has the same resolution as the A7R IV, but a new sensor and processing engine make it a better camera overall for pros.

Best by use-case

The best for video

Billed as a hybrid, the Lumix S5 II excels at video, producing rich and detailed 6K/30p footage while offering excellent bang for buck.

The best crop-sensor

The EOS R7 is like one of Canon's full-frame EOS R cameras, but with a smaller APS-C sensor. Impressively powerful for the price.

The best retro hybrid

A lovely retro hybrid, the Nikon Z fc is a great choice for casual shooters who want a fun camera for travel and everyday shooting.

The best value for beginners

The E-M10 Mark IV might lack advanced features such as phase-detection autofocus, but is still a great value option for stills.

The best hybrid for pros

A smaller, cheaper version of the excellent Z9, the Nikon Z8 is one of the most capable hybrid cameras on the market right now.

The best medium format

Very much a camera for purists, the X2D 100C is also the most versatile and accessible medium format Hasselblad made to date. 

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The best hybrid for beginners

Taking all that made the X-S10 great, the X-S20 adds beginner-friendly features while still satisfying more advanced users.

The best for action enthusiasts

An innovative camera for high-speed photography, the A9 III delivers blistering stills pace with unbeatable burst speeds.

Tim is TechRadar's Cameras Editor. With more than 15 years' experience as a photographer and tech journalist, Tim has shot with many of the best mirrorless cameras. As a result, he has a deep knowledge of what to look for when selecting a mirrorless camera. He notes, "with new models coming from Canon, Sony, Nikon, Fujifilm, Panasonic and more, the mirrorless camera market has never been healthier. From entry-level hybrids to high-res workhorses, competition is fierce across all categories. When putting together this list, we've tried to cater to every kind of photographer."

The best mirrorless cameras for 2024

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

Below you'll find full write-ups for each of the best mirrorless cameras in our list. We've tested each one extensively, so you can be sure that our recommendations can be trusted.

The best mirrorless camera overall

1. nikon z6 iii.

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid, nikon z6 iii sample images.

✅ You shoot a lot of video: The Z6 III is a true all-rounder, however, many of its upgrades are video focused, including 6K up to 60fps and excellent color profiles. 

✅ You photograph moving subjects: The Z6 III has much better subject detection autofocus than the Z6 II, and fast frame rates.

❌ You want the best detail: Nikon's 45MP cameras have almost twice the number of pixels as the Z6 III, giving you finer detail and better cropping capabilities.

❌ You want the best budget full-frame Nikon: Since the Z6 III launch, the Z6 II has gone down in price and is considerably cheaper.

Nikon's third-gen Z6 III is a significant upgrade from the Z6 II , giving it the edge over  rivals like the  Canon EOS R6 II . It's a mid-range all-rounder that ticked a lot of boxes in testing: you don't get best-in-class detail from its 24.5MP full-frame sensor, but we did appreciate the view through its best-ever EVF (a 5.76m-dot number). Burst speeds are rapid too, with up to 60fps at full resolution for JPEG. But it's the autofocus that really shone in our review: it's just about the best system in low light, while the latest subject detection modes proved suitably sticky.

The Z6 III's video specification also stands out. You get 6K video up to 60fps in-camera, and oversampled  4K  raw, plus regular 4K at 120fps and 10x slow motion up to 240fps in Full HD. Record times are impressive too, at 120 minutes even without a cooling fan. If you don't shoot a lot of video or action photography, there's an argument that the now-cheaper Z6 II could serve you well for less. But strong performance across the board makes the Z6 III a compelling hybrid.

Read our in-depth Nikon Z6 III review

• ^ Back to the top

The best mirrorless camera for beginners

2. canon eos r10, canon eos r10 sample images.

✅ You're shopping for your first proper camera: From its versatility to its handling, the EOS R10 ticks all the right boxes for beginners buying their first serious camera.

✅ You want an affordable camera for action stills: Despite its mid-range price, the EOS R10 benefits from top-tier autofocus performance and burst shooting speeds.

❌ You want a wide choice of native glass: One of the major drawbacks of the EOS R10 right now is the lack of native lenses for Canon's RF mount.

❌ You mainly record video: Though the R10 can produce nice uncropped 4K/30p video, the lack of audio port and image stabilization mean this isn't a vlogging camera.

There are cheaper mirrorless camera for beginners, but none that can match the versatility of the Canon EOS R10. From our tests, two features set the Canon EOS R10 apart for learners: its 15fps burst shooting rate and powerful subject-tracking autofocus, which operates across 651 AF points. These two features combine to make the R10 a fantastic performer in a range of scenarios, particularly when subjects are fast moving. We found it particularly good at tracking the eyes of subjects.

It’s not a perfect camera for beginners: we found the EVF a little small and also noted the lack of image stabilization, a feature which is offered on rivals like the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV (below). Then again, we also found that the R10’s low weight and deep grip make it a forgiving camera for novices to use. We also noted positively in our review the helpful presence of an AF joystick. The only major drawback is the lack of native lenses currently available for Canon’s RF mount. In all other respects, the R10 is a versatile option for photographers getting started.

Read our in-depth Canon EOS R10 review

The best mirrorless camera for pros

3. sony a7r v, sony a7r v sample images.

✅ You're a landscape, portraits or studio photographer: With class-leading full-frame sensor resolution, image quality is excellent.

✅ You need Sony's best autofocus: AI subject detection AF provides more reliable autofocus for more subjects in more scenarios.

❌ You don’t own the best lenses: A 61MP sensor is unforgiving of any lens deficiencies, so you'll also need expensive high-end pro lenses.

❌ You don’t need 61MP: Do you need 61MP? If not, you'll save a packet by opting for the A7 IV instead. 

At 61MP, the Sony A7R V has the same class-leading resolution as the A7R IV before it. But thanks to a new sensor and powerful Bionz XR processing engine, our review found that the A7R V is a better camera overall. Paired with high-quality optics and up to eight stops of image stabilization, we found it capable of capturing outstanding detail. We found image quality to be excellent when shooting detailed subjects, making the A7R V a fantastic choice for landscape or studio pros. 

In our tests, its AI-powered Real-time Recognition AF wasn’t foolproof, but it could reliably lock onto a range of subjects, working particularly well with people – even in wider scenes. Its articulating touchscreen provides useful flexibility when it comes to framing, while the EVF is as sharp here as on the A7S III. If you want a high-spec full-frame powerhouse and don’t mind paying for it, the A7R V is a serious step up from its predecessor. But if you can’t afford the best glass, want to shoot slow-mo 4K video or simply don’t need such high resolution, you might find better value in the A7 IV.

Read our in-depth Sony A7R V review

The best mirrorless camera for video

4. panasonic lumix s5 ii, panasonic lumix s5 ii sample image.

✅ You want to accelerate your video prowess: The S5 II is feature-packed for video, with open gate 6K 30p recording, a range of codecs, and superb image stabilization. 

✅ You make video for social, too: The S5 II's uncropped video is perfect for multi-aspect videos for social.

❌ You love slow-motion video: The S5 II's 4k / 60p video incurs a 1.5x crop, which is a little restricting for wide angle slow motion video.

❌ You love a good-looking camera: Design aesthetics are subjective, but we think the S5 II’s DSLR style is dated. 

The Panasonic Lumix S5 II is a worthy successor to one of our favorite video cameras, the S5 . Like the S5, the S5 II is ticketed as a hybrid, but video is where it excels. In our tests, we found its 6K/30p footage rich and detailed, with wide dynamic range. Its video chops are bolstered by 10-bit recording across almost all resolutions, plus the ability to record uncropped footage using the sensor’s full 3:2 aspect ratio – useful for cropping content. We also found it sturdy yet comfortable to handle during testing. Happily, its compact design doesn’t compromise the physical controls.

The S5 II is Panasonic’s first mirrorless camera with phase detection AF for video. Combined with effective image stabilization, we found it produces sharp, stable video even when shooting handheld, although the 1.5x crop on 4K/60p video is a shame. The Panasonic Lumix GH6 is a more travel-friendly video powerhouse with a Micro Four Thirds sensor, while serious videographers will be drawn by the Lumix S5 IIX. Nevertheless, the S5 II is a fantastic full-frame hybrid for high-quality video.

• Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix S5 II review

The best crop-sensor mirrorless camera

5. canon eos r7, canon eos r7 sample images.

✅ You're a wildlife or sports photographer on a budget: Canon's subject-tracking and eye-recognition autofocus is game-changing for enthusiast action photographers.

✅ You also want a compact-sized all-rounder: The EOS R7 with 18-150mm kit lens is a compact package ideal for travelling.

❌ You’re want decent lens choice: Rival Sony and Fujifilm APS-C mirrorless systems have a superior selection of lenses.

❌ You need full-frame: There are lots of advantages to APS-C sensors especially for wildlife, but many people will simply desire a full-frame camera.

The Canon EOS R7 is like one of the camera giant's full-frame EOS R cameras, only with a smaller APS-C sensor. For the price, it's impressively powerful, particularly if you're fan of shooting wildlife or sports scenes. That's because it boasts 15fps burst speeds (or 30fps if you switch to the electronic shutter). Our tests found that the EOS R7 can indeed hit these speeds, though you don't get the deep buffers found on full-frame siblings like the EOS R6, so it can't sustain those speeds for quite as long.

Beyond rattling off frames of speeding animals, the EOS R7 offers comfortable handling, Canon's latest subject-tracking autofocus system and and dual UHS-II card slots, making it a camera that will also tempt pro EOS R series fans as a second body. The only downside? Canon has so far only made two native lenses for the EOS R7's APS-C sensor. More should be en route, though, and you can always mount existing RF lenses or adapt older EF lenses from Canon's DSLRs while you wait.

To save some money on Canon products, check out our Canon discount codes . 

Read our in-depth Canon EOS R7 review

The best retro mirrorless camera

6. nikon z fc, nikon z fc sample images.

✅ You love old school cameras: Nikon fan or not, we can agree the Nikon Zfc is a retro-chic beauty.

✅ You want retro style with modern smarts: If you tuck the modern vari-angle touch screen away altogether you can pretend the Z fc is from a bygone era.

❌ You want a bullet-proof body: Inspired by the super-tough Nikon FM2 analog camera design, the Z fc is a casual camera with entry-level build quality.

❌ You need a decent choice of native APS-C mirrorless lenses: Nikon is yet to fill out the lens range for it's APS-C mirrorless cameras, although there is at least the 24mm f/1.7 prime lens now.

The Nikon Z fc is a gloriously retro take on the Nikon Z50, the camera giant's other crop-sensor mirrorless camera. It packs the same specs as the Z50 into a body that's inspired by the Nikon FM2 from the early 1980s – and the combination is a triumph for casual shooters who want a fun camera for travel and everyday shooting. It might lack a weather-proof build and the large grip seen on the Nikon Z50, but we found the Z fc to be a delight to shoot with. 

Its competitive specs, which include a 20.9MP sensor, the ability to shoot 4K/30p video, and continuous AF tracking for people and animals, are also borne out in reality. The only downside? A lack of native lenses. If a wide range of APS-C lenses is important to you, then Fujifilm 's X-series is a good alternative – but otherwise, the Nikon Z fc is a glorious mix of old and new. That said, if you have a little extra cash and are looking for a more rugged, full-frame retro camera, then the pricier Nikon Zf is the one for you. 

Read our in-depth Nikon Z fc review

The best value mirrorless camera

7. olympus om-d e-m10 mark iv, olympus om-d e-m10 mark iv sample images.

✅ You'll invest in a range of lenses: Micro Four Thirds has been around for ages and there's a huge selection of excellent and affordable lenses.

✅ You like to shoot handheld: The E-M10 IV boasts class-leading image stabilization, which can keep your handheld shots sharp at slow shutter speeds.

❌ You also shoot video: The E-M10 Mark IV lacks phase-detection autofocus, a mic input and USB-C port, while video  is capped at 4K/30p, meaning no slow motion recording.

❌ You're looking for the best autofocus: The E-M10 Mark IV's specs are surpassed by some rivals, especially its autofocus chops.

On paper, the E-M10 Mark IV is an easy camera to overlook. But in reality, it’s one of the best cameras for beginners who are mainly focused on stills rather than video. It might lack advanced features such as phase-detection autofocus or a microphone input, but it ticks all of the key boxes for beginners. A compact body and approachable button layout make it an accessible upgrade for smartphone photographers, as do Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. 

In our tests, we found that the 20.3MP sensor to be plenty capable enough to capture consistently attractive images, while in-body image stabilization works a treat for shooting snaps at slower shutter speeds. The 121-point contrast detection autofocus won’t make headlines, but it does a decent job of consistently tracking faces and eyes. Add classic styling to the mix, plus a handy flip-down touchscreen and an Advanced Photo mode that makes it easy to experiment with complex techniques and the Mark IV proves itself a well-rounded beginner mirrorless option.

Read our in-depth Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV review

The best pro hybrid mirrorless camera

8. nikon z8, nikon z8 sample images.

✅ You're ready to switch from your Nikon D850 The Z8 is a natural mirrorless successor to the D850 DSLR with plenty of new tech to make the upgrade worthwhile.

✅ You want on camera that does it all: The Nikon Z8 is highly efficient in any scenario; landscape photography, wildlife videos, whatever you can think of.  

❌ You shoot long video clips: The Z8's video record times are shorter than the Z9 in hot conditions.

❌ You want class-leading detail in your photos: 45MP is plenty enough for most people and most situations, but the rival Sony A7R V's 61MP resolution is better.

The Nikon Z8 doesn’t do much that we haven’t already seen in the Z9 . But as a smaller, cheaper version of our camera of the year 2022 , it’s one of the most capable mirrorless models you can buy right now. In testing, we found it every bit the capable hybrid camera, producing pin-sharp stills courtesy of its 45.7MP full-frame sensor, with fantastic 8K video to match. It doesn’t rival the 61MP resolution of the Sony A7R V, but the pixel difference makes the Nikon Z8 twice as fast. 

The Nikon Z8 follows the Z9 in excluding a mechanical sensor entirely, and reaps the performance rewards. During our review, we found 20fps burst shooting more than enough to capture action-packed moments, but the Z8 can go all the way to 120fps if you’re happy with 11MP output. We did find battery life a little limited in testing, and in-body image stabilization was simply fine. But by squeezing almost all of those flagship features into a significantly smaller body, at a lower price, we think the Nikon Z8 offers a recipe that will make more sense for most people than the Z9.

Read our in-depth Nikon Z8 review

The best medium format mirrorless camera

9. hasselblad x2d 100c, hasselblad x2d 100c sample images.

✅ You love simple Scandi design: Hasselblad X System cameras are refreshingly simple and slick.

✅ Color quality is important to you: In addition to its mega 100MP resolution, the X2D's color rendition and dynamic range is outstanding. 

❌ You shoot action: Hasselblad's best autofocus yet and 3.3fps burst shooting is still bettered by 10-year-old DSLRs.

❌ You want a feature-packed camera: The X2D's strength is single-shot photography quality. It doesn't even record video.

While it’s very much a camera for photography purists, the Hasselblad X2D 100C is also the most versatile and accessible Hasselblad to date. It squeezes a medium format sensor into a stunning body that we found surprisingly compact and comfortable to handle. We also appreciated the convenience of its built-in 1TB of SSD storage. That’s not to say it doesn’t occupy a narrow niche: there’s no video, burst shooting tops out at 3.3fps, and even with speed enhancements, its autofocus still lags far behind the latest mirrorless models. And if you like telephoto lenses, there's no obvious option from Hasselblad.

Yet despite these drawbacks, we found its manageable form factor and tilt-angle touchscreen made it usable in the real world, while its in-body image stabilization – a first for Hasselblad – eliminated the need for a tripod. Its 100MP sensor can capture pin-sharp stills, while its leaf shutter setup permits greater use of wide apertures with flash portraits. Color rendition and dynamic range are outstanding, too. The X2D is right up there with our favorite medium format cameras. 

Read our in-depth Hasselblad X2D 100C review

The best mirrorless hybrid for beginners

10. fujifilm x-s20, fujifilm x-s20 sample images.

✅ You want a camera to last all day: FWith a physically larger battery than the X-S10, the X-S20 has double the battery life and beats rivals.

✅ You want a hybrid mirrorless: Thanks to excellent 26MP stills and 6K open gate video, plus dedicated modes for both disciplines, the X-S20 is a true all rounder.

❌ You're mainly a photographer: The pricier X-S20 massively improves over the X-S10 for video, but for photography there's little in it. 

❌ You love the retro look: The X-S20 is a Fujifilm so of course it looks good, but other models like the X-T30 II pack the retro charm. 

Taking all that made the X-S10 one of our favorite mirrorless hybrids, the Fujifilm X-S20 adds beginner-friendly features while still satisfying advanced users. By inheriting the 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor from the X-S10 and X-T4 , the X-S20 benefits from a proven imaging system, while Fuji’s latest X-Processor 5 works efficiently with the bigger battery to extend longevity. The X-S20 enhances things further by offering 6K/30p 4:2:2 10-bit internal video recording, which is more than most casual content creators will need.

Adopting the balanced body of the X-S10, it handles comfortably. Our first impressions found that simplified dials make it easier for learners to operate. A new Vlog mode, plus automatic scene detection and better subject tracking, also ease the way for beginners. We do think many novices will be wary of its increased price tag, with the X-S10 still available for less. We also wish that Fuji had weather-sealed the X-S20. All the same, with a generous feature set – including in-body image stabilization that worked well for handheld shooting in our review – the result is a very capable all-rounder for both stills and video.

Read our in-depth Fujifilm X-S20 review

The best mirrorless camera for action

11. sony a9 iii, sony a9 iii sample images.

✅ You want the fastest camera in the world: With burst speeds of up to 120fps and 1-second pre-capture, the Sony A9 III is unmatched on speed.

✅ You're a serious action photography: As well as those rapid burst speeds, a global shutter eliminates rolling shutter in fast panning shots.

❌ You're on a limited budget: The Sony A9 III offers unmatched speed with a price to match; you'll find better value if 30fps is enough.

❌ You need high-res images: The A9 III favors speed over size; if you need to print big, you're better off with a Nikon Z8 or Sony A7R V.

There is no faster camera right now than the Sony A9 III: thanks to a world-first global shutter, it can shoot at speeds of up to 120fps. As confirmed by our in-depth tests, that makes it an incredible choice for action photography. So does the fact that the global shutter eliminates rolling shutter, meaning you can pan quickly without any distortion. Backed up by class-leading subject-tracking AF, the A9 III proves an unmatched choice for capturing fast-moving subjects.

In our review, we also praised the A9 III’s design as one of Sony’s best ever: it’s well-built and neatly sized with a comfortable grip. What you don’t get with the A9 III is a high-resolution sensor, so if you need stills bigger than 24MP, you’ll be better served elsewhere. The global shutter also limits dynamic range and produces more noise in low light, while the use of CFexpress type A cards can fetter performance. Nonetheless, its outright shooting speeds make the A9 III the ultimate choice for action photographers.

Read our in-depth Sony A9 III review

How to choose the best mirrorless camera for you

How to choose the best mirrorless camera

It's a great time to buy a mirrorless camera, but also a slightly overwhelming one. An explosion in the number of options available at all price points from the likes of Canon, Sony, Nikon, Fujifilm, Panasonic and a reborn Olympus means that photographers and videographers have never had more choice. 

So where to start? Sensor size is often a good barometer of a camera's character and shooting style. Models that are built for professionals and keen amateurs will have either a full-frame sensor or a slightly smaller APS-C chip. The latter tend to be smaller and more affordable than full-frame cameras, if not quite as portable as those with Four Thirds sensors (from Panasonic and Olympus).

Other important features to look out for are electronic viewfinders (EVFs), which bump up the price but are nigh-on essential for most photographers. It's also worth considering what kind of lenses you'll need. 

If you like to specialize in a particular area (for example, wide-angle architecture or macro), then check the system you're looking at to make sure it has the right options for you. In the full-frame mirrorless space, Sony offers the most choice right now, while on crop-sensor APS-C cameras Fujifilm has a wide range of options at most focal lengths.

Mirrorless or DSLR: what's the difference?

The mirrorless vs DSLR debate has been a hot topic since the arrival of the first mirror-free cameras. Which is best for you will always be a personal choice, although most manufacturers are now focused on pouring their best tech into mirrorless models. Our dedicated mirrorless vs DSLR guide should help you decide which one is right for your needs, but there are a few key ways in which the two formats are different.

Mirrorless cameras allow you to change lenses like a DSLR. But unlike a DSLR, they don’t use a mirror to direct light onto the sensor inside. Instead, light is received and processed by the sensor directly. Because they don’t need a bulky mirror, they can be made more compact than a traditional DSLR. No mirror to move also means faster potential shutter speeds.

The other key difference is the viewfinder. Where DLSR cameras use an optical viewfinder to help you frame scenes, mirrorless cameras rely either on an electronic equivalent, or require you to compose using their rear screen. While the latter can be problematic in bright conditions, the former is no longer the dealbreaker it once was: modern EVFs are bright and sharp, giving you a realistic preview in real-time, with the benefit of data readouts.

Mirrorless cameras initially featured smaller sensors than DSLR cameras, but today you’ll find a catalogue of mirrorless models with full-frame and APS-C sensors. This means there’s no clear difference in image quality between the best DSLR and mirrorless cameras.

Why are mirrorless cameras better?

Is a mirrorless camera better than a DSLR? There are still quite a few pros and cons to both designs, so if you want to find out more, read our Mirrorless vs DSLR cameras guide.

Mirrorless cameras certainly offer more choice. If you're looking to buy a DSLR, there's only really two main players in the shape of Canon and Nikon. If you opt for a mirrorless camera, the choice of brands is much broader, with the likes of Canon, Panasonic, Fujifilm, Sony, Olympus and Leica all offering a wide range of cameras to suit most budgets. 

Right now, every major camera manufacturer has something to shout about, and their latest models are different enough from their rivals to stand out in some way.

While it would be very easy to select 10 high-end models to make up our pick of the best mirrorless camera, we've tried to pick out some more affordable options as well. These models might not be dripping with features, but they represent great options for new users and those on a budget. That said, if you're looking specifically for a budget mirrorless camera, take a look at our best beginner mirrorless camera guide.

So whether you're after a better camera than the one featured on your smartphone or are looking for an advanced, high-end model to push your creativity even further, read on to find out what are the best mirrorless cameras you can buy right now. 

Are mirrorless cameras good for beginners?

While flagship mirrorless cameras might be designed to fulfil the needs of enthusiasts and professionals, the best entry-level mirrorless cameras offer everything a beginner could ask for at the start of their photography journey.

Many of our favorite beginner mirrorless cameras are lightweight and easy for learners to handle, while still offering the sort of performance that will allow you to grow as a photographer. The exact specs will vary from camera to camera, but the core components usually include a capable sensor and reliable autofocus.

Besides striking a balance between price and performance, most mirrorless cameras are user-friendly for beginners, thanks to their touchscreen interfaces. Even if you’re a complete novice, these should feel familiar if you’re upgrading from a smartphone.

By choosing a beginner mirrorless camera, you won’t generally get all of the more advanced features found on premium models. That sacrifice could be in-body image stabilization, burst shooting speeds, or perhaps the frame rate at which a camera can record 4K video footage. Still, mirrorless cameras remain a versatile choice for new photographers. And because their lenses are interchangeable, you’ll be able to upgrade to different glass as your skills improve.

We’ve picked out a handful of our favorite mirrorless starter cameras in the ‘Novices’ section above, but you can find an in-depth selection by reading our dedicated round-up of the best beginner mirrorless cameras . There you’ll find options for every budget and preference, ranging from the best entry-level all-rounders to video-focused mirrorless hybrids for budding vloggers.

How we test mirrorless cameras

☑️ 100s of cameras reviewed ☑️ 15 years of product testing ☑️ Over 16,000 products reviewed in total ☑️ Nearly 200,000 hours testing tech

Buying a mirrorless camera these days isn't cheap, so every camera in this guide has been tested extensively by us. These days, real-world tests are the most revealing way to understand a camera's performance and character, so we focus heavily on those, along with standardized tests for factors like ISO performance.

To begin with, we look at the camera's design, handling and controls to get a sense of what kind of photographer it's aimed at and who might most enjoy shooting with it. When we take it out on a shoot, we'll use it both handheld and on a tripod to get a sense of where its strengths lie, and test its startup speed.

To test performance, we use a formatted memory card (the fastest supported type be it UHS-I, UHS-II, CFexpress A or B, and so on) and shoot in both raw and JPEG (if available). For continuity we use the same camera settings (1/250 sec, ISO 200, continuous AF) when testing the real performance of the camera's continuous high burst mode for high speed photography. We'll also look at how quickly the buffers clears and repeat the test for both raw and JPEG files.

In various lighting conditions, we also test the camera's different autofocus modes (including Face and Eye AF) in single point, area and continuous modes. We also shoot a range of photos of different styles (portrait, landscape, low light, macro/close-up) in raw and JPEG to get a sense of metering and its sensor's ability to handle noise and resolve fine detail.

If the camera's raw files are supported by Adobe Camera Raw, we'll also process some test images to see how we can push areas like shadow recovery. And we'll also test its ISO performance across the whole range to get a sense of the levels we'd be happy to push the camera to.

Official CIPA ratings helpfully estimate the camera's expected battery life but the reality is often different – for better or worse – and so we run our own real-world tests, making sure the screen brightness is in its factory setting. Once the battery has reached zero, we'll then count the number of shots to see how it compares to the camera's CIPA rating. Finally, we test the camera's video skills by shooting some test footage at different frame-rates and resolutions, along with its companion app.

We then take everything we've learned about the camera and factor in its price to get a sense of the value-for-money it offers, before reaching our final verdict.

• Best cameras for photography
• Best camera for beginners
• Best beginner DSLR cameras
• Best 4K camera
• Best full-frame camera
• Best compact camera
• What camera should I buy?
• Mirrorless vs DSLR: 10 key differences
• Camera rumors

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Tim is the Cameras editor at TechRadar. He has enjoyed more than 15 years in the photo video industry with most of those in the world of tech journalism. During his time as Deputy Technical Editor with Amateur Photographer, as a freelancer and consequently editor at Tech Radar, Tim has developed a deeply technical knowledge and practical experience with cameras, educating others through news, reviews and features. He’s also worked in video production for Studio 44 with clients including Canon, and volunteers his spare time to consult a non-profit, diverse stories team based in Nairobi. Tim is curious, a keen creative, avid footballer and runner, and moderate flat white drinker who has lived in Kenya and believes we have much to enjoy and learn from each other. 

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Best mirrorless cameras in 2024

The best mirrorless cameras for photographers of all types, experience levels, and budgets.

• Best for beginners
• Best for intermediate users
• Best for advanced users
• How to pick
• Choosing lenses
• Sensors explained
• DSLR vs mirrorless
• How we test

Knowing the best mirrorless cameras on the market is incredibly important if you’re looking for a new camera. After all, with most manufacturers (except Pentax) no longer producing DSLRs, if you want the most choice, you've got to be looking at mirrorless. If you’re not sure which is right for you, read our DSLR vs mirrorless guide.

When choosing the best mirrorless camera for you, obviously you’ll need to consider price, but also the features that you’ll use. Why spend thousands of dollars on a mirrorless camera but not use most of its features? Thankfully, we’ve reviewed and rounded up all of the best ones and listed their important features below to help you decide which is best for you. 

The best mirrorless camera for you also comes down to your experience, which is why we’ve broken this guide into three parts based on whether you’re a beginner, an intermediate looking to upgrade your first camera, or a seasoned advanced user. Read on to see our pick of the best mirrorless cameras.

The best mirrorless cameras you can buy today

Why you can trust Tom's Guide Our writers and editors spend hours analyzing and reviewing products, services, and apps to help find what's best for you. Find out more about how we test, analyze, and rate.

We've broken down our picks for the best mirrorless cameras by experience level: beginners looking for their first mirrorless camera; intermediate users looking for an upgrade, perhaps from their beginner body; and advanced users, enthusiasts who've been shooting for a while and need more professional features. We've left out professional-level cameras, as we're only going up to a budget of around $2,500.

The best mirrorless cameras for beginners

1. Canon EOS R50

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The Canon EOS R50 is our pick for the best mirrorless camera for beginners and vloggers. It's small and lightweight to come with you wherever your new photography or vlogging passion takes you. Meanwhile, it's well built, so it should last until you're ready to upgrade in the future.

It delivers beautiful stills, 4K video in 30p, natural colors straight out of camera, and Canon's ferocious autofocusing system. Indeed, it's the AF which really seals this camera as the best for beginners, as Canon has essentially packed into the R50 an (only slightly) slimmed down version of the AF found in its high end professional bodies — which is epic. There's also a flip out screen for vlogging, a dedicated product mode for demos and great vlogging and beginner kit options.

As with any beginner camera, there are a few compromises. It's a little pricey for a beginner body, and this is because realistically it isn't aimed at total newcomers. However, we think the features the R50 packs warrant the extra spend over the actual Canon entry-level body, the EOS R100 , which is very basic. It could do with a few more direct controls on the body and when shooting at maximum resolution, the camera did start to overheat. None of these things change the fact that this is still a really great starter camera that will last you a while!

Read more in our Canon EOS R50 review .

2. Fujifilm X-E4

The Fujifilm X-E4 is ideal for beginner and intermediate street photographers alike. At well under $1,000, it's a brilliant and relatively affordable starting point if you're new to Fujifilm cameras, which is why we've put it in our beginners section. Don't be fooled by its diminutive looks, though: this is also a superb camera for intermediates and even as a second camera for more advanced photographers. In fact, Tom's Guide's cameras editor Peter Wolinski used the X-E4 for almost a year, and loved it!

The X-E4 packs a lot into a small, rangefinder-style retro body, including a 3-inch touch-screen LCD that flips out by 180-degrees, a bright EVF and 4K video. But it's the 26-megapixel stills that really shine here, digging up masses of detail and handling exposure and dynamic range well. Noise is also well controlled, while Fuji's superb film simulations ensure that every shot looks just like you want it to.

The relative lack of manual controls won't be to everyone's taste, and there's no built-in image stabilization, but the price is reasonable for the feature set and Fuji's ever-growing lens range offers something for every situation and budget. 

Read our full Fujifilm X-E4 review .

3. Nikon Z50

Nikon was a bit late to the mirrorless camera category, but it's making up for lost time. Following the launch of the full-frame Z6 and Z7 mirrorless cameras, Nikon introduced the Z 50, which doesn't have a full-frame sensor, but offers a solid feature set, great image quality and good performance —  in a smaller form factor at a more consumer-friendly price. 

The Nikon Z 50 is a great mirrorless camera for Nikon enthusiasts; we liked its build and deep, comfortable grip, as well as its sharp electronic viewfinder. Its 3.2-inch touchscreen flips down for selfies, but is obscured if you have the camera on a tripod. The Z 50 has intuitive controls, in-camera retouching, and good performance in low light. However, there's no in-body image stabilization, and the single card slot only supports lower-end SD cards. 

Also look out soon for our review of the Nikon Z fc — a new mirrorless camera that has the same specs as the Z 50 but in an attractive retro body.  

Read our full Nikon Z 50 review .

The best mirrorless cameras for intermediate users

4. Fujifilm X100VI

The Fujifilm X100VI is the best compact camera you can buy, if you can find one. Fujifilm has experienced insane levels of demand for this camera, just like it did for its predecessor, the X100V, meaning the X100VI is rarer than hen’s teeth. If you can get your hands on one, though, it’s definitely worth it, especially if you're a fan of street photography. 

The X100VI packs Fujifilm’s latest and greatest technology, including the 40.2MP X-Trans CMOS 5 HR image sensor, intelligent hybrid AF with numerous detection and tracking modes, and in-body image stabilization (IBIS). Surprisingly, Fuji have been able to add IBIS without sacrificing size or weight, as the X100VI is only a fraction bigger than the X100V. 

As a rangefinder style retro, this camera features tactile control dials, which not only look good, but offer an engaging shooting experience, too, making this one of the ultimate cameras for street photography. Its fixed 23mm lens offers a field of view equivalent to a 35mm lens on a full frame camera, which is ideal for street, travel or documentary photography. Fuji offers lens adapters if you’d prefer a wider or more telephoto field of view, but if you’d like the ability to switch lenses, consider the Fujifilm X-T5 if you’re happy to sacrifice the rangefinder form factor. If you’d like a rangefinder style ILC, the X-E4 is a great choice, if you’re happy to use Fuji’s older AF system, 26MP sensor and go without IBIS.

Read our full Fujifilm X100VI review .

5. Sony Alpha a6100

We think most consumers will find the Sony a6100 to be the best mirrorless camera for their needs. Selling for around $700 with a kit lens, it's not overly expensive, but has many of the modern features you'll want, including an excellent autofocus system, a fast 11fps shooting speed, a bright electronic viewfinder, and sharp 4K video. (The camera even has a microphone jack for better audio.) Plus, the a6100 has an excellent design with a good hand grip, as well as an articulating 3-inch touchscreen, which makes it easy to hold the camera above or below eye level and still get the shot you want.

What you don't get at this price are features such as in-body image stabilization, and the A6100's viewfinder is a lower resolution than higher-end models. But these tradeoffs are more than acceptable. We think this is a great camera for intermediate photographers, but would also be a great choice for beginners too.

Read our full Sony a6100 review.

6. Canon EOS R10

The EOS R10 is aimed at casual and intermediate photographers and can be had for around $1,000 with a kit lens. However, we've seen this camera go for much less than that on offer, potentially making this a great choice for beginners too.

The Canon EOS R10 is super lightweight and relatively compact — ideal for a street or travel camera. Our Cameras editor Peter Wolinski spent a few days using it and was impressed with its autofocus system, which can track both human and animal eyes. This makes it great for anyone who likes taking photos of animals and wildlife, too.

The EOS R10 also offers some impressive video features, shooting 4K/60p — a rare feature in its price range — and offering up to 10-bit color for a wide color gamut. The R10 doesn’t feature IBIS or a 720-shot battery like our best mirrorless camera for video, the Sony a6600. But if your budget can’t stretch to the Sony, the R10’s 4K/60p and superb autofocus make it an ideal tool for aspiring video-creators stepping up from a smartphone.

However, the EOS R10’s lightweight design causes the body to feel cheap in-hand. Currently Canon’s RF-S lineup of bespoke APS-C lenses for their mirrorless R-System, is also lacking, meaning you’ll have to settle for non-native full frame RF lenses if you want fast maximum apertures or prime lenses.

Read our full Canon EOS R10 review .

7. Sony Alpha a7 II

The Sony a7 II is a few years old at this point — it's been succeeded by the Sony a7 III, which offers full frame HDR 4K video and better battery life, and by the a7 IV, which has a new 33MP sensor among many other things. But the a7 II is still a powerful camera, and it's a lot cheaper than the more recent models, making it a better bargain and a great choice for intermediate photographers wanting to upgrade to their first full-frame camera with professional features.

The Sony a7 II carries in-body 5-axis image stabilization, is compact enough to fit in most bags, and packs a bunch of customizable buttons and knobs for quick access to your favorite controls. We also loved the bright, clear pictures and relatively low amount of noise (graininess) even at high ISO light sensitivity levels. Thanks to effective wireless capability, you'll be able to beam your shots to your smartphone or computer within seconds. If you can stretch to an a7 III, though, you'll benefit from improved autofocus and battery life.

Read our full Sony A7 II review .

8. Fujifilm X-T50

The Fujifilm X-T50 is a fantastic camera for street and travel photography enthusiasts. It’s got a large 40.2MP sensor that delivers beautiful stills and shoots video in 6.2K at 30P and 4K at 60P. It takes what the X-T30 II did right and improves on its flaws, adding improved autofocus performance and subject detection which can now track insects. With 5-stops of in-body image stabilization, you can rest assured your stills and videos will be smooth.

But its USP lies in its film simulation dial which replaces the Drive dial found on older models, so you can quickly switch between simulation recipes as and when required. All of this is housed in a premium retro-looking body that feels sturdy to hold.

The X-T50 doesn’t have a lot that’s wrong with it, but its battery life will leave you feeling shortchanged. It has a CIPA rating of 390 shots when shooting in eco mode, and that’s nearly not as much as the Fujifilm X-S20 (750 shots) or the advanced Fujifilm X-T5 (740 shots). Unlike the Sony a6700 , the X-T50 isn’t weather-sealed either so be wary of shooting in the rain for long periods. 

If you’re looking for a great all-rounder but don’t want to shell out the extra $300 on the X-T5, the X-T50 will serve you well.

Read our full Fujifilm X-T50 review .

9. Canon EOS R8

The Canon EOS R8 is the spiritual successor to the EOS RP, Canon's previous 'entry level' full-frame mirrorless camera. That said, nothing about the EOS RP was truly entry level, as it was a camera firmly designed for the lower end of the enthusiast market — your first proper upgrade after some time using a beginner's camera. And the same is true of the EOS R8.

This camera packs some really powerful features into its compact shell. Its 24.2MP full frame Dual Pixel CMOS sensor produces fantastic quality images and video, with Canon's famous color rendition generating beautiful natural colors and skin tones. It can shoot in 4K at 60P, while 4K at 30p is available without any time limitations. And it features Canon's truly sublime autofocus, which can detect and track human eyes and faces, as well as animals and vehicles, making it a versatile tool for a range of photo and video genres.

Unfortunately, the EOS R8 is hamstrung in its use as a professional body. It features no IBIS, which is a pain enough for low light photography, but a serious headache for serious video creation. There's no AF joystick, which is annoying when shooting through the viewfinder, and it only features one SD card slot, which will make anyone looking to dabble in professional work shudder. As such, it's firmly confined to the enthusiast market, but a great camera nonetheless.

Read our full Canon EOS R8 review .

10. Nikon Z5

The Nikon Z5 is an excellent midrange mirrorless camera with a full-frame sensor, letting you get large and luscious images. Though larger than the Canon EOS RP, we liked the way it handled, allowing us to keep a firm grip. It's weather-sealed against the elements, too. 

The Z5 took excellent pictures in low light, thanks to in-body image stabilization and an ISO range up to 51200. It can shoot 4K Ultra HD/30p video, but the image is cropped, but the camera has a mic and a headphone jack. Last, the 3.2-inch touchscreen is large and bright, but only tilts up and down, and not to the side. Overall, though, this is a great option for those who don't want to spend more than $1,500 on a full-frame mirrorless camera.

Read our full Nikon Z5 review .

The best mirrorless cameras for advanced users

11. Fujifilm X-T5

The Fujifilm X-T5 is the best mirrorless camera for enthusiast photographers. It may look and feel retro, but under the hood it boasts Fujifilm’s latest 40.2 MP X-Trans CMOS 5 image sensor and X-Processor 5 pairing. The high resolution sensor delivers outstanding image quality and leaves plenty of flexibility for cropping or large-format printing. With so many megapixels to play with, a manual shutter speed of 15 fps and electric shutter speed of 20 fps is impressive. However, in testing, the X-T5's buffers filled very quickly due to the lack of CFExpress ports, so you wont be able to utilize those faster shooting rates for long. Nevertheless, with a deep-learned AI autofocus system, the X-T5 will be able to keep up with even fast-moving subjects.

The ISO range is expandable to 51,200, and while its noise suppression is effective (it has to be when packing this many pixels onto an APS-C sensor), it does lead to an artificial smoothing effect and a loss of detail in images shot at higher sensitivity. Still, we came away with usable images even at ISO 12,800. Strong light metering and a range of Fujifilm’s beautiful color simulation profiles helps the X-T5 offer users a quality result without the need to be a post-production master, while its compact and lightweight design and 5-axis IBIS make it an excellent option for on-the-move shooting. Video performance is decent, offering up to 6K at 30p and 4K at 60p, but this camera is primarily designed for demanding enthusiasts and professional photographers — and there it excels.

Read our full Fujifilm X-T5 review

12. Nikon Z f

If you're in the market for an enthusiast retro body, but want the benefits that a full frame has to offer over the APS-C Fujifilm X-T5, top of your shortlist should be the Nikon Z f. 

Nikon has absolutely nailed the looks of the Z f, which harkens back to classic Nikon SLRs of the film era — it's absolutely stunning. It isn't just about looks though, and the Z f's retro layout means it handles exceptionally well. It's build exceptionally well, too.

Images from the 24MP full frame sensor are beautiful, while up to 8-stops of in-body stabilization keeps shots sharp even at slower shutter speeds. The Z f can record at up to 4K/60p with a crop, or 4K/30p without, and has dual card slots for dual writing or a backup of photos and videos. This camera also features PD charging to fill batteries back up quickly.

So what are the cons? Well, there are a few. Firstly, one of the Z f's card slots is a Micro-SD port, which will limit what can be written to it, and there's also no joystick for focus control — something that will seriously bug many enthusiast photographers. And while 24MP is a respectable resolution, if you need more pixels for larger prints, the Fuji X-T5 has a higher resolution (albeit smaller sensor). 

Still, if you want a retro and it has to be full frame, the Nikon Z f is about the best camera on the market for you right now.

Read our full Nikon Z f review .

13. Sony Alpha a6700

The Sony a6700 is the long-await successor to the a6600, which was previously our pick of the best video camera for most people. And the new model is more of the same. If you want to produce high quality video — perhaps for YouTube — without breaking the bank, the a6700 is for you. 

This camera packs incredible autofocus, 4K video oversampled from 6K at 60p, and can shoot 120fps slow motion at 4K. It's built beautifully, can take lovely photos and also gives you access to the huge number of Sony E-Mount lenses. There's also an awesome Auto Framing mode which gives solo shooters the effect of having a camera operator follow them through frame.

The drawbacks? There aren't many. The EVF isn't the best in the price range, and there's no focus joystick on the back, which is a pain, particularly for photography. If you're relying on your video camera for any paid work, then the single UHS-II card slot is a big issue, as you won't have a backup of your footage or photos if your SD card goes kaput. 

The main rival of the a6700 is the Fujifilm X-S20. The Fuji is better for stills and vloggers, thanks to its Product Priority Mode, but the a6700 has it pipped (just) for enthusiast videography thanks to the 4K/120fps recording and humungous range of lenses (although you won't be short of lenses with the Fuji). 

Read our full Sony a6700 review .

14. Canon EOS R6 Mark II

The original Canon EOS R6 long held the position of the most expensive camera on this list. And the Canon EOS R6 Mark II continues that legacy. That said, while it's pricey, you get a lot for your money, The R6 Mark II is a camera designed for serious enthusiasts and professionals, with a spec sheet to match. For most people, this camera is serious overkill, but if you're getting paid for your work, or hope to be, you'll welcome its pro-oriented feature set.

The EOS R6 Mark II is a hybrid camera, meaning it's designed to shoot both stills and video. Its relatively modest megapixel count of 24.2 means it won't be the best for large photography printing jobs, but on the flip result in larger photosites (essentially pixels) than on a higher resolution sensor and therefore better low light performance. For video, there's 4K at 60p in 10-bit color, HDR PQ and C Log 3 available, all of which provide greater post-production flexibility for pro filmmakers.

Canon's deep-learned AI autofocus is just phenomenal, and can track human eys and faces, animals and vehicles, making this a versatile tool for different genres of photography.

If we're nitpicking, we'd have liked to see Canon's highest level BSI (Back Side Illuminated) sensor equipped, and pro users might have liked an OLED top panel display, as you'd find on the similarly priced APS-C Fujifilm X-H2S, and the EOS R5 (this camera's bigger sibling). 

However, if you're a hybrid shooter moving into or already doing paid work, and need a powerful workhorse for photos and video, the R6 Mark II is a formidable camera.

Read our full Canon EOS R6 Mark II review .

15. Panasonic Lumix S5IIX

The Lumix S5IIX is the best advanced camera for video in our price bracket. Costing under $2,000, this camera will offer enthusiasts and semi-pro videographers all they need to produce professional quality video for their projects. Heck, it should even be more than enough for pro filmmakers too. 

The Lumix S5II and S5IIX (they are separated only by a few additional video features on the S5IIX, some of which can be added to the base S5II via a paid firmware update) are the successors to the legendary Lumix S5, and follow very much in its footsteps. The S5IIX features a huge range of video resolutions and formats, compression types and bitrates, allowing users to customize their content to workflow, quality and storage requirements. 

The camera features Panasonic's incredible IBIS system to keep everything stable when shooting handheld, and most importantly uses Panansonic's latest AF system — this is now a combined phase and contrast detection system, fixing one of the main issues on the original S5. As a mirrorless hybrid, it also takes beautiful images with lovely color rendition and all the benefits of a full frame sensor in regards to depth of field and low light performance. 

Drawbacks? There are very few and we almost awarded this camera 5 stars. The AF is still a little spartan versus rivals in terms of detection modes. There's no CFExpress port for fast data speeds when not shooting to SSD or external recorder — this is something you'd find on the Lumix GH6. And the 370-shot battery life isn't when compared to rivals. That said, for the money, this camera is phenomenal.

Read our full Panasonic Lumix S5IIX review .

How to pick the best mirrorless camera for you

The criteria when shopping for a mirrorless camera are pretty much the same as when you're looking for any sort of camera. 

First, what is your budget? While our picks of the best mirrorless cameras all fall under $2,500, you can find models that are twice as expensive, and their features are very tempting. 

Next, what is your experience level? If you're new to mirrorless cameras or photography in general, it's worth getting a lower-priced model with more beginner-friendly features, such as in-camera guides that explain various settings.

Last, consider what you want to do with the camera. If you're shooting sports or wildlife, you'll want a camera that can take a lot of pictures quickly, as well as one with in-camera stabilization. And, while mirrorless cameras are known for their smaller size relative to DSLRs, you'll want one that's more compact if you're planning to take it traveling. 

How to choose a lens for your mirrorless camera

One of the most important qualities that mirrorless and DSLRs share is that they accept interchangeable lenses, which can dramatically improve image quality and bring your photography to a new level. But there are scores of lenses to choose from, which can be confusing. To help you get better acquainted with this important camera accessory, here's a quick rundown of types of interchangeable lenses that are available for your mirrorless camera:

Standard zoom lenses:  This is the lens that most people who buy an entry-level DSLR or mirrorless model as a kit use first. Mirrorless kits generally come with a 14-42mm lens. They typically include a small amount of zoom (3x), and are often inexpensive, but not the highest quality. However, in the past several years, the quality of these kit lenses has improved.

Prime lenses:  You can save money by choosing a prime or non-zoom lens. They offer excellent quality, and are often much more affordable. If you need to zoom, just use your feet and walk closer to your subject!

Telephoto zoom lenses:  If you shoot a lot of sports or other types of events, consider these powerful zooms, which can bring you closer to the action and provide features to capture images with shallow depth-of-field. They can be a bit heavy and bulky, but most manufacturers have been inventing new lenses that are smaller and more compact, but are still high quality. The 70mm-200mm is a good example of this type of lens.

Wide-angle lenses:  If you're traveling, this type of lens, such as a 16-35mm zoom, can be very valuable, since it allows you to capture different types of wide-angle shots. Want to shoot a group portrait? Set the zoom lens towards the 35mm end of the range, which will avoid distortion at the edges of the image. Or if you want to capture a broad, sweeping landscape, use the lower end of the zoom, nearer to the 16mm end. However, these lenses can be pricey.

Macro or Close-up lenses:  If you're looking to capture close-up shots of small objects, you'll want a good quality macro lens, which come in a variety of focal lengths, such as 50mm and 100mm. Be sure to do your research so you know that the lens you want has macro capabilities. 

Specialty lenses:  One of the most notable specialty lenses in this category is the ultra-wide fisheye lens, which some photographers love for the exceptionally distorted point of view. Other types include tilt-shift and soft-focus lenses.

What are the different sensor sizes in mirrorless cameras?

You've probably seen references to full-frame, APS-C and Micro Four Thirds sensors — but how do they differ?

Well, full-frame is the biggest sensor you'll find on most mirrorless cameras. And we say most , because Medium Format cameras are bigger still — but also way out of most people's price range, so we'll skip them here.

Full-frame is actually an old term and refers to a sensor the size of that in a 35mm film camera (roughly 36 x 24mm). The Sony A7 range, Nikon Z5 and Canon RP are all full-frame mirrorless cameras.  

APS-C is the next size down (approx 22 x 15mm) and is found in most mirrorless cams including Sony's A6000 range, most of Fujifilm's X series and some Canon and Nikon models. It has around 2.5 times less surface area than full-frame.

Below that is Micro Four Thirds , a sensor size developed by Olympus and Panasonic specifically for mirrorless cameras; you'll only find it on models by those two manufacturers. This is almost a quarter the size of full-frame.

So, what does it matter? Well, in general, the bigger the sensor, the better the image quality. Larger sensors can gather more light and will generally have less noise than smaller formats. But obviously other factors also come into play here; this is a guide rather than a hard rule. Against that, a smaller sensor can allow for smaller cameras and — just as importantly — smaller lenses. 

What are the differences between mirrorless cameras and DSLRs?

Mirrorless cameras have come a long way in the past decade, and now rival — and often beat — the best DSLR cameras in most regards. 

Our comprehensive mirrorless vs DSLR guide gives you the full lowdown, but briefly, the key differences are:

• Size and weight Mirrorless cameras don't have a mirror (the name gives that away) and as a result are usually a lot smaller and lighter than DSLRs.
• Viewfinders DSLRs have an optical viewfinder, which shows you the scene as it really is. Mirrorless cameras use an electronic viewfinder (EVF), which is a small screen showing you a video feed of the scene. Also note that some cheaper mirrorless cameras don't have any kind of viewfinder, leaving you reliant on the rear screen as on a smartphone.
• Speed Mirrorless cams are almost always faster, once price is taken into account, offering burst speeds that exceed that found in many DSLRS. They can also use an electronic shutter that can shoot faster still, though this usually reduces image quality. 
• Battery life DSLRs have the edge here: by not needing to power an EVF or in some cases an LCD screen, they can usually go for a lot longer. 
• Choice Very few DSLRs are being made now, with only Canon, Nikon and Pentax releasing new models (and even then, not that often). Canon and Nikon also make mirrorless cams, as do Fujifilm, Sony, Panasonic, Olympus and others.
• Lenses Because DSLRs have been around for much longer, they have a richer range of lenses to choose from. Plus, second-hand lenses are readily available — often for a low price.

How we test mirrorless cameras

To determine which models make our list of the best mirrorless cameras, we first put each through a battery of tests, and evaluate them for such things as image and video quality, battery life, design, and usability. How fast can the camera shoot? Is its autofocus quick to lock on to subjects in the frame? When recording video, does it use the full sensor, and at what resolution can it record?

We also look at things such as button placement, how easy it is to navigate in-camera menus, if its touchscreen can fold outwards, and if you can access all the camera's settings using the display.

Finally, we consider such things as what features the camera has, and what competitors are offering in cameras that cost around the same price. 

Other camera buying guides

Be sure to check out all of our camera picks:

Best cameras | Best DSLR cameras  |  Best action cameras  |  Best waterproof cameras  |  Best point-and-shoot cameras  |  Best instant cameras   |  Best cheap cameras  |  Best GoPro camera | Best GoPro accessories  |  Best drones  |  Best 360 cameras | Best iPhone lenses | Best iPhone tripods | DSLR vs. mirrorless | Best Nikon accessories | Best Sony a6000 accessories

The best apps and software for editing, managing, and sharing your photos: Best photo organizer apps | Best photo storage sites | Best photo editing software | Best photo editing apps  | Best photo collage apps

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Peter is Reviews Editor at Tom's Guide. As a writer, he covers topics including tech, photography, gaming, hardware, motoring and food & drink. Outside of work, he's an avid photographer, specialising in architectural and portrait photography. When he's not snapping away on his beloved Fujifilm camera, he can usually be found telling everyone about his greyhounds, riding his motorcycle, squeezing as many FPS as possible out of PC games, and perfecting his espresso shots. 

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Our Expert Guide to the BEST Travel Cameras in 2024

• Last Updated: December 13, 2023

We’ve spent years working as professional travel photographers, and are proud to have put together this definitive guide to the best travel cameras in 2024 for every budget, based on actual hands-on experience.

One of the best souvenirs you can bring home from your adventures abroad is photographs.

As the old saying goes, pictures are worth a thousand words, and nothing brings back the excitement and thrill of holiday memories quite like looking back at your photos.

These days almost everybody has a decent camera in their pocket, thanks to the wonders of modern smartphones. And while these are fine for the average person, if you really want great image quality, you’re going to have to invest in something better.

People say, “It’s not the camera that takes good photos, it’s the photographer”, and this is completely true. Yet there’s a reason professionals use expensive gear – they are better for the job.

Never fear though, that doesn’t mean you need to go out and spend $10k on a set-up! Definitely not.

In fact this article is going to save you time and money by diving straight into the best travel camera for every budget.

So why listen to us?

We’ve been working as professional travel photographers for almost a decade, and have been fortunate enough to put hundreds of cameras to the test during our career.

Based on our personal experience, we’ve been able to narrow down the absolute top choice in every category.

Whether you are a beginner, intermediate or professional, or even if you know nothing at all, we’ll help you make the right choice so you don’t waste your money getting something that just isn’t up to the job.

READ MORE: Check out our comprehensive guide on how to take better travel photos .

Let’s dive into our comprehensive guide for the best camera for travel photography.

Table of Contents

Our Recommendation

Bonus: recommended lenses for sony a6600, bonus: recommended lenses for sony a7iv, size and weight, resolution/megapixels, interchangeable lenses, manual settings, weatherproofing, stabilization, mirrorless vs dslr, what camera do most professional photographers use, what camera is best for travel videos, what is the best small camera for travel, what is the best travel camera in 2024.

Without further ado, let’s get into the article!

Disclaimer – NOMADasaurus is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program and the Amazon EU Associates Programme, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

GoPro HERO12 Black – The Best Action Camera

Action cameras have come a long way since we bought our first one back in 2010.

They used to be reserved just for people who were into extreme sports – skiing, skydiving, motocross, scuba diving, etc.

Now they have become one of the top travel cameras on the market thanks to their durability, compact size and high quality.

The good ones shoot in at least 4K video (this one though actually goes up to 5.3k), are completely waterproof and even connect to your phone so can take great photos from any angle.

They also shoot time-lapse photography, which is great if you’re catching an epic sunrise or particularly busy urban scene.

Even if you are not interested in jumping off of cliffs or mountain biking through a jungle, having an action compact camera is still a brilliant tool to have in your suitcase.

They are especially awesome if you’re looking for the best cameras for adventure travel.

The undisputed king of action sports cameras is GoPro, and we’ve been proudly using them for over 13 years.

These epic cameras have insane image quality and shoot some remarkable video. They’re also extremely durable, waterproof and fit in your pocket.

Adding to the GoPro series is a huge range of accessories that makes getting footage limited by only your imagination.

Check out our brand new GoPro HERO12 Black review to see if it’s right for you!

Different mounts allow you to put them just about anywhere, extension poles get unique angles (perfect for selfies), you can stick a GoPro on a tripod and there are even filters available.

We’ve had just about every GoPro camera since the original HERO was released, and we’re super excited to share that the newest one on the market is by far the best ever.

Their latest camera is the GoPro HERO12 Black , following hot off the heels of the successful HERO11 (click the link to read our review of it), and it’s risen the bar once again.

When the HERO7 came out they introduced a number of revolutionary features, such as HyperSmooth (in-built image stabilisation), TimeWarp (awesome hyper-lapse videos) and SuperPhoto (HDR photos on steroids).

The HERO9 added a front-facing LCD screen, which really stepped things up a notch, especially for vloggers.

The HERO10 brought in the new GP2 processor, which made everything work, well, just better.

The HERO11 went bonkers with a brand new larger sensor, 10-bit colour and all new aspect ratio.

And now with the HERO12 the company has gone and made everything more refined with a host of new features and upgraded battery life.

Boasting the fantastic GP2 processor, 1/1.9″ sensor and 8:7 aspect ratio, the latest GoPro HERO12 Black now has HDR video to go along with the expert camera settings.

The massive aspect ratio gives more room to crop, so you can shoot in one perspective and scale later for portrait social media content or landscape YouTube videos.

The camera shoots in 5.3k 60 frames per second, 4k at 120fps and 2.7k at a whopping 240fps (8x slow motion), which also allowing for 27 megapixel screen grabs when using 5.3k on the full 8:7 ratio.

The stabilization is even better with HyperSmooth 6.0 (in-built horizon levelling up to 360 degrees), TimeWarp 4.0 allows to switch between hyper-lapse, real-time and slow-mo recording in the same video with a tap of the screen, and the SuperPhoto has improved HDR abilities.

The screens are still very responsive and look excellent.

SuperPhoto for photographers, in particular, means you can point and shoot, and barely have to edit before uploading to social media. Although we still recommend shooting in RAW for the pros out there.

This article talks more about how to take better GoPro photos, written by a pro.

For the purists out there, the GoPro HERO12 shoots in RAW format for all photo modes.

There is still voice activation and the entire unit is waterproof to 10m, meaning there is no need for a dive housing if you’re not going below that depth.

Also the all-new Night Effects modes are really awesome. Who would have thought you could capture light trails and the Milky Way on such a tiny camera?

For the video gurus out there the HERO12 is a gimbal killer. What does that mean? It means HyperSmooth 6.0 is on another level.

The HERO7 stabilisation was amazing for vlogging and action sports, as was the HERO8 and 9, but after testing the new HERO12, the stabilisation is even better again. Don’t know how they do it, but they do! And it works at 4K at 120fps, TimeWarp and live streaming!

Want slow motion? How does 2.7k at 240FPS sound? Buttery smooth, that’s for sure.

Whereas in previous models they had White, Silver and Black models, the HERO12 only has a Black model.

Canon Powershot SX740HS – The Best Affordable Camera

If you want a dedicated camera that is cheap and still takes decent photos then you really are spoiled for choice.

We’ve personally owned a whole range of different brands in this range, from Canon to Fuji to Olympus to Sony, and with the way the best travel camera market is now if you’re not fussy about the brand you get, then you can’t really go wrong. But let us explain what you’ll need.

You’ll basically be looking for a small point and shoot, something that is foolproof and most importantly quite durable. Having a big zoom range is a big bonus so you can crop right in on different scenes.

The ability to use manual settings will come in handy if you ever want to play around and learn a bit more about how photography works.

And you want something affordable so that you won’t be overly worried if you lose it (just make sure you backup your photos).

The Canon Powershot SX720HS was a hugely successful compact camera, and Canon backed it up with the amazing SX730HS to become the best budget travel camera.

But like all good camera companies, Canon has stepped it up a notch again by bringing out the newest model in the range, the SX740HS .

This great little travel camera does it all, and for the price, it is the best travel zoom camera out there.

40x optical zoom, manual settings, shoots in 4K video, good color grading, and it is one of the better compact cameras out there.

It also has wifi so you can transfer photos straight to your phone or laptop without plugging it in, or control the camera from your phone. Perfect for the general traveler who just wants something to take decent photos with on their trip.

It also has a large articulated screen, so you can angle your shots perfectly, whether you’re shooting from the ground or above the head.

A few more updates over the SX730HS is an improved small sensor, meaning better low light capabilities, and faster burst shooting, cementing its position as the best budget camera for travelling.

READ MORE: Check out our latest guide on the best camera accessories !

Sony RX100 vii – The Best Compact Camera for Travel

This is the next level up. You still want the portability and benefits of having a point and shoot, but you want to take incredible photos too.

You’re interested in learning about the fundamentals of photography, and perhaps want to one day print your photos or maybe put them up online. Ultimately you’re after the best pocket camera for travel.

Here are the things you’ll need: Full manual control, a decent size sensor, zoom, high-quality video, flip screen (so you can shoot from different angles while still framing your shot), ability to shoot in RAW format, good ISO performance and a wide aperture.

This is the category that most people will be in. So if you’re asking yourself what is the best compact digital camera for traveling, read on…

READ MORE: Check out our comprehensive guide to the best landscape photography tips !

This is, in our opinion, the best point and shoot camera for travel on the market. It does everything you’ll ever need it to do and has incredible image quality in a premium compact size.

Sony have completely revolutionized the market with the RX100 range, and with each update it just gets better and better.

Without a doubt there’s no better option for the best compact camera for travel out there than the Sony RX100 vii right now.

The Mark 7 has a very long zoom range (8.6x optical, up from 3.6x optical, which is like having a 24-200mm lens), an amazing 20mp one-inch sensor to capture huge dynamic range, high quality 4K video and an articulating flip screen.

It’s an expensive camera, yes, but if you want the absolute best quality on the market in a small, compact unit that fits in your pocket, this is the best travel camera out right now.

BONUS TIP – If you want to create travel vlogs and have a decent camera for photography too, this is the model for you!

Canon G7X Mark iii – Best Camera for Vlogging

Vlogging is the newest craze, and it’s quite literally taking over as the new digital media of choice for many travelers and influencers.

If making videos is more your style instead of taking photos, then you’re going to want to look at a camera that has a range of specific features.

Most importantly is the ability to shoot in 4K (even if not many people have 4K monitors today, in a few years it will be common and you’re going to want to have footage to match the current standard).

Once you’ve got this another handy feature is an articulated LCD screen that can face you while you’re talking in the lens.

This allows you to frame your shot instead of cutting off half your head. Lastly you’ll want a microphone jack to catch better audio.

Get the camera, start filming and put some great videos up on YouTube ! Sounds easy, right? But what is the best travel camera for vlogging…

We’ve used more vlogging cameras than we can remember, from full-frame setups to GoPros and even putting to the test the brand new Sony ZV-1F .

But what have we settled on?

The Canon G7X Mark ii has always been considered the ultimate travel camera for vlogging, but it fell short in a few different categories.

That’s all changed now with the newest upgrade, the G7X Mark iii .

Shooting fantastic 4k video, this travel camera now has an in-built microphone jack for improved audio, a flip-up touchscreen for keeping your face in frame, and has a faster start-up time than previously.

The image quality is also much better now, and with manual control functions it really is a premium compact travel camera.

Sony A6600 – Best Mirrorless Camera for Travel

You’ve broken out of the realm of standard point and shoots, and you’re looking for a camera that has interchangeable lenses.

You’re getting into the idea of shooting wide, or perhaps portrait shots. Maybe you really would like to get a longer zoom.

Most of all, you really want to get serious about photography.

In your kit will be a range of lenses for a range of situations. You can look at getting filters to give beautiful effects on your shots. You might even want to start growing your photography portfolio .

A few years ago everyone would have recommended you to get an entry-level DSLR. This is no longer the case.

With the way mirrorless technology has gone DSLRs are losing traction and popularity. Now you can get something with the same image quality for half the size.

The Sony A6600 is an absolute powerhouse and puts up a good fight for being the ultimate travel camera.

For entry-level mirrorless cameras, Sony broke the mould by introducing the A6000 a few years ago. Since then every model has been lightyears ahead of the competition.

The latest A6600 is their newest offering, and for a compact camera, it is seriously next level.

It boasts one of the fastest autofocus capabilities of any camera on the market, an improved APS-C sensor capable of high-level video and great image quality, a touch-enabled articulating LCD screen and excellent electronic viewfinder.

The range of lenses available for this Sony mirrorless camera is huge, and manages to cover all bases for whether you want to shoot 4K video or take images that you can sell to magazines.

You can really get away with the standard lenses that come in most kits, but there are a couple of exceptions that you could splurge out for.

All Sony E mount lenses will fit onto the Sony A6XXX series (including the spectacular full-frame range, with a crop factor).

So if you are ever considering an upgrade to full frame and want to buy some new lenses for your APS-C sensor, you can fork out the money early and still use your lenses later on.

Best Wide Angle Lens

There’s really only one option in this range, and it’s the brilliant 10-18mm F4 . To this day one of the best photos we’ve seen taken of the Petronas Towers was taken with a Sony A6000 (older model) and this lens.

Best Portrait Lens

The Sony 50mm F1.8 is a great choice for a native portrait lens. It’s light, fast and cheap. 

The quality is decent without being amazing, but it definitely does a wonderful job for what you pay for.

Otherwise step up to the FE 55mm F1.8 (read about it below), although this will give you a 85mm perspective on the APS-C sensor.

Best Zoom Lens

Keeping with the affordable and light range that makes for great travel camera lenses, we recommend the Sony 55-210mm f/4.5-6.3 .

For the amateur and hobbyist photographer, this will do just about everything you need and is a solid lens to have in your kit.

Sony A7iv – Best Professional Camera for Travel Photography

If you’re like us and want to make capturing the absolute best images of your travels a priority, then you’ll be looking at a professional range of travel cameras.

Following on from the discussion on mirrorless vs DSLR above, you’ll get many professional photographers who choose to stick to cameras like the Canon 6D or 5D series, or the Nikon D750 or D810.

These are legendary cameras in the industry, and with the enormous range of lenses available for each one, there’s a reason the best in the business use them.

But, we’re talking about travel cameras. And for this, we recommended sticking to mirrorless. 

Full frame DSLRs are big and heavy, whereas their equivalent in mirrorless are a fraction of the size.

If you have decided you want to take the leap to a full frame sensor and want to be rocking the best mirrorless camera for travel, then you have only two choices.

READ MORE: But you need to carry everything, right? Here’s our new expert guide to the best camera backpacks on the market today!

Sony was the first major camera producer to create a full frame mirrorless camera, and while Canon has finally caught up, Sony has years of research and development on their side.

The Sony A7 series is almost flawless. Fantastic image quality, 4K video capabilities (on the A7R, A7S and the A7iv), articulating LCD screens, wifi, light, compact and a whole range of native lenses available for it makes them the absolute best cameras for traveling.

And with the Metabones adaptors you can even use your old Canon, Nikon, Sigma, Samyang or other type of lenses on it.

As of 2024, Sony’s top cameras are the A1, A7iv, A7Siii, A7Rv and the A9ii. Now while the A9ii, A7Rv and A1 are absolute beasts of cameras, the truth is you most likely don’t need all the features they have.

We currently own the A7iv and A7Rv, and for professional travel photography, they are the best on the market.

The image quality is superb and the dynamic range is insane. The low light capabilities are also amazing. Even at ISO 12800, there’s barely any noise that shows up on the shot compared to a compact camera.

We personally recommend the A7iv as the best travel camera out there , as it’s just damn near perfect, especially as a hybrid photo and video camera.

4K video with 60fps, a lightning-fast autofocus system, joystick control, touch screen, fast processor, upgraded full frame sensor and amazing battery life.

If you’re the kind of person that loves to blow up their images for print, or does a lot of cropping when you edit your shots, then that’s the only reason you’ll want to step up to the A7Rv, as it has a 62mp sensor.

But wait – isn’t the brand new Sony A7Rv the best in class right now? Yes, it is. However, while it is absolutely incredible and takes things up another notch, it’s quite expensive and the megapixel count is likely not something you need..

Instead we recommend that you save your money on the body, put what’s left over towards some lenses, and get the A7iv be your go to camera for travel photography.

If you’re going for the Sony A7 series, we’ve got some bad news for you. Full frame lenses are expensive.

But if you’re considering turning your photography hobby into a profession, then this is a small sacrifice to make for the quality of photos you’ll be taking.

Trust us, if you’re buying the best camera for travel photography on the market, you’ll want to also have the best lenses to go with it.

The great thing with the Sony Alpha series is that their lenses are all interchangeable, meaning if you start out with a Sony A6600 and eventually upgrade to a Sony A7iv, you can take your old lenses and put them on the new camera (but it will have a crop factor).

Best All-Round Lens

The new FE 24-105mm f4 lens from Sony is pretty much the best all round travel zoom lens for photography.

It’s damn sharp, and with a constant aperture of f4, it means you can get excellent bokeh and decent low-light performance at any focal length.

This lens practically lives on our A7iv, as it’s so versatile, great for video and the image quality is fantastic.

The Sony 16-35mm f2.8 GM lens is one of the best wide angle lenses on the market, and when you throw it on your travel camera, you’re almost guaranteed to get fantastic shots.

Pretty much every review on photography sites raves about it, and having owned it for over three years now, we completely agree.

It’s not cheap, but to have such a fast and wide native lens for the Sony setup is pretty epic! If you want a cheaper alternative, check out the 16-35mm f4 , which is also very good.

Best Prime Lens

If you are into portrait or street photography make sure you get the FE 55mm F1.8 prime lens.

It’s very fast, very light and very sharp. And with such a good value, it may be the best prime lens that Sony makes (excluding the high-end GM series).

Owning a telephoto lens isn’t just about taking photos of wildlife or zooming in on things that are far away from you. It adds a whole new creative element known as lens compression to your arsenal.

This is the optical illusion that happens when the further you zoom into something, the bigger the background appears.

You start to get this effect from around 100mm and on, so if you’re looking for the best zoom lens to put on your Sony A7iv, consider the 70-200 f2.8 GMii lens, or the 100-400mm GM lens .

We have both of these zoom lenses, and we love love love them!

DJI Mavic Air 2 – The Best Drone for Travel

Aerial photography has gained in popularity over the last two years, and it’s easy to see why. 

Not that long ago the only way to get photos from the sky was by taking a chartered flight or helicopter.

But today just about anyone can go out, buy a drone and start taking shots from very unique angles.

The appeal is obvious. Capturing epic photos and video of landscapes from a perspective that few have ever seen before.

From the moment we bought our first drone (a DJI Phantom 4) we fell in love with it.

Good drones up until now have always been quite prohibitive when it comes to travel due to their bulky size.

The DJI Phantom series helped make it more accessible for most people, but even then it was still a commitment to travel with one.

Today the best drone for travel has finally been determined.

The DJI Mavic series is what you should be looking for when considering a travel drone.

With foldable legs and compact size, they tick all the boxes for portability.

There are a few different models to consider, and it really depends on your needs.

If you’re a professional, we recommend the DJI Mavic 2 Pro , thanks to its 1-inch Hasselblad Sensor and 360-degree collision avoidance.

But just announced is the Mavic Air 2 , and with features like 48-megapixel photo mode, panorama capabilities and 4k video, it’s the best option for anybody trying to take travel photos from the air on their next trip.

Its small size and great value makes it perfect for travel, but one thing to consider is the fixed focal length, meaning you can’t zoom in to take photos.

Note – With whatever drone you buy we highly recommend buying extra batteries. You’ll be surprised how quickly you chew through these. Check out the bundle packages from DJI (called ‘Fly More’ on the Mavics).

GoPro Max – Best 360 Travel Camera

With virtual reality becoming more and more popular, it might be no surprise that one of the best travel cameras for 2024 is actually a 360-degree camera!

These incredible little devices come with multiple cameras on one piece, managing to capture an entire scene in one shot in both photos and high definition video.

When they first came out they were very poor quality, but now they’ve improved enough that we actually travel with one full-time now.

360 cameras became popular when the Chinese company Insta360 started to bring out their affordable options, but the image quality was always pretty poor.

Then GoPro stepped onto the scene with the Fusion, and it changed the industry forever.

With all the standard great features GoPro is known for, such as being waterproof, having awesome connectivity and packing it all into compact cameras, the Fusion took things to the next level.

It did require a bit of work to use though, and the stitching wasn’t great. Plus with two SD card slots required to save media, it was just that bit too cumbersome for most photographers.

Cue the Max!

The GoPro Max took the best parts of all their cameras and threw it together into one unit with this one.

The Max, with its dual lenses on either side of the body, now uses just one SD card, making storage and management so much easier, and it has a touch LCD screen that can be used on the go.

For people looking for travel cameras that can do it all, it doesn’t just shoot in 360-degree mode.

There is their ultra-wide single perspective, and for having a small sensor, the low light shots are surprisingly good.

If you’re a travel vlogger you’ll be amazed at the quality of this! The inbuilt microphones do a great job at picking up audio while cutting out background noise, and the battery life is great.

It shoots at 5.6k video quality and 30 frames per second. You can change the pitch, yaw, field of view and angles to get the view you desire.

Even more unique, it can create 360 time-lapses and hyper lapses with a simple click. No need to pull it up in a program like Adobe Premiere Pro to make your videos any more!

Best of all it connects seamlessly to your smartphone using the GoPro app, so you can do all your editing, sticking and keyframing on the go.

When it comes to a travel camera that tries to do it all, this one is hard to beat.

That concludes our list of the best cameras for traveling. Let us know if you have any other recommendations, or if you use any of these cameras while traveling the world!

How to Choose the Best Camera for Travel 

No matter what level you are, the first piece of kit you are going to need to buy is the camera.

This can range from a cheap point-and-shoot right up to a top-of-the-line DSLR that can cost as much as a small car.

A quick visit to a camera store can leave you feeling completely overwhelmed with all the choices.

Keep on scrolling to find detailed information about each of these, and why they really are the best cameras for travel.

READ MORE: See what made the cut as the best travel tripod on the market in our expert guide!

What Features to Look for in a Travel Camera

There’s a number of different features that you need to look for when searching for the best travel camera to buy, based on your needs.

The first thing to look out for is how big and heavy a camera is.

When you’re on the road traveling, weight and space is a huge issue to overcome. You don’t want to be lugging around a heavy backpack full of gear if you don’t have to.

If you’re not a pro or a big enthusiast, we recommend checking out a compact camera or mirrorless camera, as they are smaller and more portable, while also providing decent image quality.

One thing that camera companies and salespeople like to preach about is megapixels. But what exactly does that mean?

A pixel is a tiny dot of color that you see on your computer or phone display. A megapixel is 1 million (actually 1,048,576 to be technically correct)  of those dots. So ‘24 megapixels’ so about 24 million dots of color

You may hear that more megapixels equal better quality photos, but this isn’t entirely true.

The sensor has more to do with image quality than the resolution does, but it does play a small part.

In short don’t get caught up about more buying a camera with more megapixels, unless you’re planning on printing your images on billboards.

Instead just use this guide to the best travel cameras to find out exactly what is the best choice you can afford.

One thing to consider when looking at the best travel camera is whether or not you can change the lens.

The reason this is important is that it gives you more choices down the road if you decide you want to get into different styles of photography.

A compact travel camera is most likely a fixed lens, meaning that whatever zoom range it comes with you can’t change.

A camera that you can change the lens on will let you upgrade to wide-angle lenses, a zoom lens, better maximum aperture options for low light performance, etc.

In general, if you can afford a mirrorless camera or DSLR, it’s worth buying.

A camera that allows you to change the manual settings gives you complete control over things like aperture, ISO and shutter speed.

This opens up a whole new world of creativity, and in our opinion, you shouldn’t consider a camera that doesn’t have this feature.

Luckily every recommendation on this list allows you to control those settings, even the GoPro HERO camera below!

It’s 2024 – make sure you get a camera that can shoot 4K video!

This provides much higher resolution when shooting video, and even if you don’t have a 4K monitor at home, you can always take that clip and watch it in high definition 1080p, or even crop into your footage.

Just beware that 4K video chews up your battery life, so make sure you have some spare ones!

Unless you plan on always being in perfect weather when you travel, it’s a good idea to get a camera that is either waterproof, or has good weather sealing.

Unfortunately you often have to compromise on a waterproof camera or a quality travel camera (unless you buy a GoPro), so we don’t recommend buying a camera that is fully waterproof.

Instead just make sure it has decent sealing, or look at buying an underwater housing if you want to get into underwater photography.

How far you can zoom in on a subject is very important when trying to decide the best travel camera.

If you buy a fixed lens camera, make sure it has a long zoom range, like a Canon Powershot or the Sony RX100vii.

Or if you buy a mirrorless camera or DSLR, you don’t have to worry about this as you can always upgrade later.

No matter how steady you think you are, you will almost always have a small amount of camera shake when taking handheld photos.

If you’re shooting at fast shutter speeds, this isn’t a problem. But if you’re photographing in low light, you can end up with motion blur.

Look out for cameras that have inbuilt image stabilization to counter this.

A DSLR ( digital single lens reflex ) works by having a mirror inside the camera. When you are looking through the viewfinder the mirror is down, covering the sensor, and you are looking at a reflected scene.

When you push the shutter the mirror flips up mechanically, allowing the image to be exposed onto the sensor, and then onto your SD card. All these moving parts take up room, hence why DSLRs are larger in size.

With mirrorless cameras, there are no moving parts inside. The image comes through the lens and directly onto the sensor.

There is an electronic viewfinder,  meaning you are seeing a digital copy of what you’re pointing the camera at, rather than a live view.

So without a mirror constantly flipping, the camera can be made a lot smaller. That’s why mirrorless cameras can be half the size of a DSLR.

When mirrorless cameras first came out the quality wasn’t that great. Now they are just about on par with DSLRs, and the portability means that they are the best cameras for travel photography!

In case you’re not sure what we mean, this article goes into a bit more information, but in short, we recommend getting a mirrorless camera.

The 3 most popular cameras that pros use are the Canon 5Div, the Nikon D850 and the Sony A7Riv.

For general travel videos, the kind of stuff you would publish on YouTube, we recommend the Sony RX100vii. If you’re looking to create more cinematic videos, the A6600 is the best compact travel camera for videos.

If you need the best small camera for travel, you should buy the Canon SX740HS. Compact, high quality and affordable, this little beast is a fantastic travel camera.

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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The best mirrorless cameras you can buy right now

We nominate the best mirrorless cameras on the market – for all budgets..

In this guide, we’re picking the best mirrorless cameras for absolutely everybody. No matter whether you’re an absolute beginner who is working to a tight budget, or you’re a pro for whom money is no object when it comes to having the best, or you’re a committed amateur enthusiast who falls somewhere in between – there will be a great mirrorless camera here for you.

Mirrorless is where the majority of major manufacturers are putting their time and resources, and they’ve effectively replaced the DSLR. There are lots of lines competing for attention, and so our guide includes options from Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fujifilm, Olympus/OM System and Panasonic. All the cameras on our list are available new, but if you’re looking for bargains, you may want to consider our guide to the best second-hand cameras and lenses . Every camera on this list has been tested and reviewed by our team – you can read what we thought of them below.

For a primer on how to choose the best mirrorless camera, scroll to the bottom of the page where we’ve put together a quick explainer section – our  DSLR vs mirrorless guide may be useful if you’re not all that sure what a mirrorless camera is or why you might choose one. Conversely, if you’re looking for something more advanced, we have a dedicated guide to the best full-frame mirrorless cameras .

The best mirrorless cameras – our quick list

Want to cut to the chase? Here’s the quick list of all our picks of the best mirrorless cameras you can buy, from beginner options to top-end pro shooters…

The best mirrorless cameras for beginners:

• Canon EOS R7 – Buy now
• Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV – Buy now
• Fujifilm X-S20 – Buy now
• Nikon Z50 – Buy now

The best mirrorless cameras for enthusiasts:

• Fujifilm X-T5 – Buy now
• Panasonic Lumix G9 II – Buy now
• OM System OM-5 – Buy now
• Panasonic Lumix GH6 – Buy now
• Fujifilm X-H2S – Buy now
• Nikon Z6 II – Buy now
• Sony A7 IV – Buy now
• Nikon Z7 II – Buy now
• Canon EOS R6 Mark II – Buy now

Best mirrorless cameras for professionals:

• Sony A7R V – Buy now
• Canon EOS R5 – Buy now
• Nikon Z9 – Buy now
• Canon EOS R3 – Buy now
• Sony Alpha 1 – Buy now

In this essential buyer’s guide we take a closer look at some of the best mirrorless cameras that you can currently buy. We give our expert recommendations on the merits of each to help you to make an informed choice that suits your needs and budget…

The best mirrorless cameras for beginners

If you’re just getting started with photography or videography, mirrorless systems are an excellent choice. In this first section, we’ve picked out the mirrorless cameras that offer a solid foundation for any beginner. They’re lightweight enough to take everywhere (which is the best way to learn to use a camera), are affordable enough that most users can pick them up and learn how they work – and, for progression, they offer a very tempting upgrade path.

It’s worth giving an honourable mention to some cheaper models that are perhaps too basic to make our list, but could still be great options if money is tight. These include the vlogging focused Nikon Z30 and retro-styled Nikon Zfc , together with the new Canon EOS R100 and EOS R50 models. And if you’re keen to get started in content creation with a camera that has a solid lens line-up behind it, it’s hard to do better than the Sony ZV-E10 or the Panasonic Lumix G100 .

Best for enthusiasts who want to try the R system: Canon EOS R7

Amateur Photographer verdict

• Impressive resolution for the price
• Weather sealing
• High-res LCD and EVF
• RF-S lenses still quite limited
• Beginners may prefer cheaper EOS R10

At a glance:

• $1,499 / £1,399 body-only
• 32.5MP APS-C sensor
• Canon RF lens mount
• 30 fps shooting
• 4K 60p video

The Canon EOS R7 was a long-expected addition to the flagship EOS R line-up, pairing the RF lens mount with an APS-C sensor. This is the more sophisticated model than its release partner, the EOS R10. With 32.5MP of resolution, it’s ambitious. On paper, it out-specs all of Canon’s APS-C DSLRs, as well as the entire EOS M mirrorless line, with up to 30fps continuous shooting, 5,915 AF points, and dual UHS-II SD card slots.

In our review, we were highly impressed with the EOS R7’s capabilities. Its extensive feature-set has been packed into a body that’s pleasingly light and handles well. The 2.36m-dot electronic viewfinder and a 3in, 1.62m-dot vari-angle touchscreen are both excellent, and the weather sealing is equivalent to the EOS 90D, which is highly welcome.

Canon RF-S lenses

Really, the only strike we had against the EOS R7 is something that should correct itself with time – the limited selection of native RF-S lenses. So far, there’s still only three dedicated RF-S lenses. It started with the RF-S 18-150mm F3.5-6.3 IS STM and RF-S 18-45mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM and was followed by the RF-S 55-210mm F5-7.1 IS STM. Full-frame RF lenses are fully compatible with the camera, but their size and price don’t balance well with it.

Canon’s entry-level stable for the EOS R system includes several models that sit beneath this one – the aforementioned EOS R10 , EOS R50 and the ultra-cheap EOS R100 . We reckon the EOS R7 provides the best bang-for-buck for beginners, but if your budget is limited, these cameras are also well worth considering.

Read our Canon EOS R7 review

Best for travel : olympus om-d e-m10 mark iv.

• Tidy, well-packed body
• Excellent auto modes
• Well-designed viewfinder
• No mic socket
• Raw quality lags behind APS-C peers
• $800 / £649 body-only
• 20MP Four Thirds sensor
• Micro Four Thirds lens mount
• 15fps shooting
• 4K 30p video

Based around a 20MP sensor, this attractive compact mirrorless model offers excellent JPEG image quality with extremely attractive colours. Paired with the TruePic VIII processor, it provides a sensitivity range of ISO 200-6400 as standard, with extended settings equivalent to ISO 80-25,600 available.

The design is stylish and the ergonomics are well laid-out, while extremely effective in-body stabilisation keeps pictures sharp. One of Olympus’s key technologies is its 5-axis in-body image stabilisation, which works with practically any lens you can fit onto the camera, aside perhaps from very long telephotos. The E-M10 IV promises 4.5 stops benefit when shooting hand-held. This allows you to keep your ISO setting down in low light, offsetting the noise disadvantage of the smaller sensor, or to use slow shutter speeds hand-held for creative motion-blur effects.

JPEG output

The camera’s automated systems work very well. Metering, auto white balance and colour rendition all come together here to give consistently attractive JPEG output. It’s also easy to judge in the viewfinder when you might want to lighten or darken an image for aesthetic effect, and apply the requisite level of exposure compensation.

You also get a good set of useful advanced features and the camera is supported by a fine set of small, affordable Micro Four Thirds lenses . You’ll also find the camera offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as 4K video recording. With In-Body Image Stabilisation, it offers great value for money.

Travelling? Check out our selection of the 20 Best Travel Accessories For Photography .

Read our Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV review

Best for vlogging and mirrorless beginners : Fujifilm X-S20

• Advanced AI subject-detection AF system
• Advanced video options (up to 6.2K)
• 3.5mm headphone and microphone sockets
• Excellent battery life
• Small electronic viewfinder
• Not weather sealed
• 26.1MP sensor
• 6.2K 30p video
• 1.84m-dot vari-angle touch-screen
• AI-based autofocus

The Fujifilm X S-20 is an update to the company’s previous mini-DSLR styled camera, the Fujifilm X-S10. It is designed to be easy to use, so if you are new to mirrorless technology, the X-S20 is a great choice. It is an impressive, feature-packed little camera with in-body image stabilisation and AI based subject-detection auto-focus that detects a wide variety of options, including animals, birds, automobiles, motorcycles and bikes, airplanes and trains. The popular film simulation modes found in other X-series cameras are available here too, now providing 19 different styles.

Video features have been significantly upgraded over its predecessor, now allowing up to 6.2K 30p recording and raw video output. Also, a new Video vlog mode has been added that’s designed to record yourself as well as giving quick on-screen access to product priority focus, as well as a background defocus mode, face/eye detection, self-timer, IS mode, and high-speed mode.

It delivers exceptional image quality from the 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor, the X-S20 builds on this success by providing a camera that is highly skilled for stills photography, as well as videography.

Read our Fujifilm X-S20 review

Best for beginners and travel: Nikon Z50

• Well-designed handgrip
• Good for stills and video
• Fast, reliable autofocus
• Few native DX-format lenses
• Single card slot
• $856 / £820 body-only
• 20.9MP APS-C sensor
• Nikon Z-mount
• 11fps continuous shooting

Nikon’s entry-level mirrorless model produces fine images and is a delight to use. The Nikon Z50 was Nikon’s first shot at creating a DX-format mirrorless camera with an APS-C sensor. It shares the large Z mount and, as well as accepting new DX-format Z mount lenses, it can be used with Nikon’s ever-growing range of full-frame Z mount optics . Nikon F-mount lenses can also be paired via the FTZ mount adapter.

It has a purposeful design, good-sized handgrip and well thought through layout of controls. Part of the Z50’s excellent feel comes down to the fact it has a magnesium-alloy top and front chassis that gives it added strength and robustness. Handling is impressive, as you would expect from Nikon, with the camera having excellent ergonomics.

Shooting experience

The excellent electronic viewfinder and responsive touchscreen enhance the shooting experience, and with 11fps continuous shooting and a responsive autofocus system, the Z50 rarely feels out of its depth when challenged by fast paced subjects. Whether it’s used to capture stills or snippets of video, the Z50 produces satisfying results.

Overall, it’s a marvellous little APS-C format camera that offers great value for money. You can’t fail to fall in love with when you’re using it and if you’re considering shooting within Nikon’s DX-format mirrorless system the Z50 is worth a long, hard look.

Read our Nikon Z50 review

The best mirrorless cameras for enthusiasts

This is where the fun begins. Here, we’ve compiled some of our favourite mirrorless cameras for enthusiasts, intermediate users; those with some experience and know-how. These cameras offer a level of depth and control exceeding that of most mirrorless models, without the huge price tags of the pro cameras (they’re next up). These cameras can be a great upgrade for anyone already invested in a particular system or brand, but sometimes they are good enough to tempt users to switch brands altogether.

Best for an analogue-style experience: Fujifilm X-T5

• Brilliant images in JPEG and RAW
• Analogue-style handling
• Subject-detect autofocus
• 40MP may be overkill for some
• Limited full-res shot buffer
• $1,699 / £1,599 body-only
• 40.2MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS 5 HR sensor
• Fujifilm X lens mount
• 15fps shooting (mechanical shutter); 20fps (electronic shutter, 1.3x 24MP crop)
• 6.2K 30p / 4K 60p video

With the X-T5, it felt like Fujifilm was returning to its roots. A succession of video-leaning cameras for hybrid shooters had left purist stills photographers feeling a little left out; so it came as a thrill when the firmly stills-oriented X-T5 made its debut in 2022. While everyone was pleased to see it sport the classic top-dial control system that has been wowing X-T enthusiasts since 2014, the real headline feature was the sensor.

The X-T5 arrived with the same 40MP sensor as the Fujifilm X-H2, providing a serious resolution upgrade over the 26.1MP Fujifilm X-T4 . Along with this, it gained sophisticated subject-detection autofocus, capable of picking out and locking onto specific subjects like humans, animals and vehicles.

A true enthusiast’s camera

Like many Fujifilm models, the X-T5 is just a downright enjoyable camera to use. Its 3-way tilting screen and high-quality viewfinder provide plenty of image composition options, and image quality is terrific both in raw and JPEG formats. Fuji’s excellent Film Simulation modes are present and correct, allowing you to imbue your images with the specific character of analogue stocks like Velvia and Astia. For producing great images straight out of camera – that are ready to share without serious editing, no one does it better than Fujifilm.

More reasonably priced than either of the Fujifilm X-H2 cameras, the Fujifilm X-T5 is an exceptional enthusiast’s camera. It’s fully featured across the board, with fast burst rates, plenty of resolution and… well, we could go on. A resounding home run by Fujifilm.

Read our Fujifilm X-T5 review .

Best for wildlife and action: Panasonic Lumix G9 II

• Great design and control layout
• Fast autofocus and 75fps burst
• Extensive MFT lens range
• Lack of cooling fan limits recording times
• Full-frame Lumix S5 II isn’t much more expensive
• $1,897 / £1,549 body-only
• 25.2MP Four Thirds sensor
• Up to 75 fps shooting (AFS + electronic shutter)
• 5.7K 60p and 4K 120p video recording

One of Panasonic’s newest releases, the Lumix G9 II came as welcome assurance that the manufacturer is still committed to the Micro Four Thirds format, even with the increased focus on its newer line of full-frame Lumix S cameras. Indeed, it appears that some developments made in the full-frame line are finding their way into the Lumix G series. The Lumix G9 II inherits significant DNA from the Lumix S5 II , which debuted at the start of 2023.

For a start, there’s the body design; the Lumix G9 II looks a lot more like the Lumix S5 II than it does the previous Lumix G9 from five years ago. There’s no cooling fan, and the smaller mount allows the design to squeeze in an extra function button, but otherwise this model handles pretty much exactly like its full-frame sibling. The placement of the 8-way AF joystick is well-chosen, making for intuitive operation. There’s a lovely big 3.68m-dot OLED viewfinder, and a 3in, 1.84-dot vari-angle touchscreen, providing additional options for composition.

Phase-detection autofocus

Probably the most significant addition to the Lumix G9 II is the phase hybrid autofocus. It is the first Panasonic-made Micro Four Thirds camera to have this, finally replacing the ageing, contrast-based Depth from Defocus system the firm had stuck by for years.

Boasting 779 phase-detect focus points that cover the entire frame, this system promises to be faster and more accurate. It also benefits from AI-powered subject-detection system that’s able to recognise and lock onto specific subjects like humans, animals and vehicles.

The Lumix G9 II is a tremendous boost for Micro Four Thirds as a system for serious enthusiasts, and a compelling alternative to cameras like the OM-System OM-1. It’s built for speed, with 8-stop stabilisation and burst mode that can reach speeds of 75fps. Have a look at our list of 16 essential wildlife photography accessories

Read our full Panasonic Lumix G9 II review .

Best for travel and outdoors: OM System OM-5

• Class-leading weather sealing
• Huge array of lens options
• Images look great straight out of camera
• Relatively short battery life
• Buffer fills fast at 30fps
• $999 / £1,199 body-only
• 20.4MP Four Thirds sensor
• 30fps shooting (10fps with C-AF)

The second camera out of the gate in OM-System’s regeneration of the Olympus brand, the OM-System OM-5 can be seen as a replacement for the enthusiast-focused Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III , with a few replacements and updates that make it especially appealing as a travel camera.

For a start, it’s got the feature that is fast becoming ubiquitous on all OM-System cameras and lenses – IP53 weather sealing. This is some of the most comprehensive weather sealing you can get on any camera in this class, and means you can take the OM-5 into basically any shooting situation without worry.

In addition to a full review, we also had our editor Nigel Atherton conduct an OM-System OM-5 field test on an extended trip to Cape Town in South Africa to see how it fares as a travel camera. With features like Starry Sky AF for night-time photography, as well as intuitive touchscreen AF-point selection and 10fps shooting with continuous autofocus, it proved itself adept in numerous shooting situations. The only sticking point was the battery life – while Nigel never quite hit the 300-shot stated limit in a day’s shooting, he still felt obliged to carry a spare.

A real all-rounder

The selection of Micro Four Thirds lenses is one of the most expansive in the business, and will allow you to kit yourself out for any situation. With excellent stabilisation, beefed-up video features and superb JPEG output straight out of camera, the OM-System OM-5 is a camera for doing a bit of everything, and doing it well.

Read our full OM-System OM-5 review .

Best for filmmakers: Panasonic Lumix GH6

• Incredible quite of video options
• Excellent value for money
• Superb stabilisation
• Dated autofocus system
• Smaller sensor than rivals
• $2,099 / £1,249 body-only
• 75fps shooting (electronic shutter, fixed AF), 8fps (with C-AF)
• 5.7K 60p video

Rumours of the death of Micro Four Thirds proved greatly exaggerated when Panasonic dropped this rip-roaring update to the video-focused GH series. The Panasonic Lumix GH6 builds on the legacy of the GH4, which was one of the first consumer cameras to offer 4K video, and is one of the best vlogging and filmmaking cameras you can buy right now.

Filmmaking codecs

The big upgrade here is codecs – the Lumix GH6 offers pretty much every filmmaking codec that anyone could desire, including Apple ProRes, as well as the V-Log colour profile. You can shoot Full HD at up to 300fps, and 5.7K video at up to 60fps, and really, do just about anything else you want to do, video-wise.

It’s such a full featured cine camera that it’s incredible it only comes with a price tag of $1,698 / £1,399 body-only, just now. It goes toe-to-toe with full-frame cameras of twice the price.

In our review, we found little to criticise. It’s slightly disappointing that Panasonic stuck with the dated contrast-based Depth From Defocus autofocus system, and maybe 6K Photo Mode would have been nice. But this is a hell of a camera, especially for filmmakers.

Read our Panasonic Lumix GH6 review

Best for action shooters who want a light setup: Fujifilm X-H2S

• Impressive shooting speeds
• Lightweight but powerful
• AI-powered autofocus
• Intimidating price for APS-C
• $2,499 / £2,499 body only
• 26.2MP APS-C stacked BSI CMOS sensor
• 40fps shooting
• 6K 30p video recording

The high-spec, high-performance Fujifilm X-H2S absolutely shows off what’s best about APS-C. It’s great for sports , great for wildlife and great for action, with a stacked 26.2MP X-Trans CMOS sensor that enables super-fast readout speeds. It’s an incredibly ambitious camera, capable of shooting at up to 40fps in full-resolution raw format, and boasting AI-powered subject-recognition autofocus.

As noted in our review, the Fujifilm X-H2S eclipses other APS-C models with its control layout. Immensely customisable, and robust-feeling in the hand, it’s streets ahead of APS-C contemporaries like the Sony A6000 series for handling. The move away from the dial-led controls of other Fujifilm cameras also makes it handle more like a professional model from Canon or Nikon. It really comes into its own when paired with a good telephoto lens like the XF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 – you get shooting speeds and real reach in an incredibly lightweight package.

Hefty price

The Fujifilm X-H2S is gunning all-around for a professional user, or at least a serious enthusiast, and this is reflected in the price. At $2,499 / £2,499 body only just now, it’s among the most expensive APS-C cameras ever released. The price is justifiable in terms of what the camera offers – stacked sensors are just expensive to make – but how many people are going to pay it?

Read our Fujifilm X-H2S review

Best for enthusiasts: Nikon Z6 II

• Dual card slots
• Improved tracking AF
• Rapid continuous shooting
• Not a huge jump over Z6
• Non-articulating screen
• $1,596 / £1,849 body-only
• 24.5MP full-frame BSI-CMOS sensor
• Nikon Z lens mount
• 14fps shooting

This remarkably versatile full-frame mirrorless camera boasts a 24.5MP sensor, a 273-point phase detection AF system and fast burst shooting up to 14fps. Users will be bowled over by the excellent electronic viewfinder, as well as the quality of the images produced.

On the outside, the Z6 II looks almost identical to its Z6 predecessor, and uses the same image sensor too. But, crucially, it gains a second card slot that accepts the cheaper and widely compatible SD format. The cards can be used in backup, overflow or segregated recording modes. The Z6 II also boasts dual Expeed 6 processors, which provide improved autofocus, meaning that face and eye tracking is now available during video recording for both humans and animals.

Superb control layout

DSLR users will find all the key buttons and dials that they expect, including twin electronic controls dials for changing exposure settings (one each under the forefinger and thumb), a well-placed AF-area joystick and AF-ON button, and top-plate ISO and exposure compensation buttons.

Key features include a dust and drip resistant body design for use in demanding conditions, and 5-axis in-body image stabilisation to help keep both still images and video footage sharp, no matter what lens you use. This includes both native Z-mount optics, and the huge range of F-mount SLR lenses that can be used via the FTZ mount adapter. You also benefit from 5-axis in-body image stabilisation, and 4K video recording.

Read our Nikon Z6 II review

Best for hybrid photo/video content creators: Sony A7 IV

• Does everything well
• Good high-ISO performance
• Huge buffer depth
• Complicated autofocus system
• Menus hard to navigate
• $2,299 / £2,179 body-only
• 33MP full-frame sensor
• Sony FE lens mount
• 10fps shooting

While many of Sony’s full-frame Alpha mirrorless cameras are specialists, the A7 models are good at a bit of everything. And the A7 IV is really, really good at a bit of everything. Its 33MP sensor captures a generous level of detail; its 10fps burst-rate, while not class-leading, is more than enough for a lot of users. ISO performance is generally very good, with even images at 25,600 being usable with a bit of processing. Good work across the board.

There’s plenty more we could heap praise on here, and it’s worth reading our full review to get a detailed understanding of this camera, as you start to get a sense of how it comes together. That 10fps burst rate, for instance, is paired with a buffer depth that’s effectively unlimited if you’re using a memory card that’s fast enough to keep up.

Really, our only bugbear with the A7 IV is something that’s common to pretty much all Sony cameras – the convoluted, unintuitive menu systems that make it needlessly hard to navigate. It’s just something you’ll need to get used to.

Read our Sony A7 IV review

Best for weddings and events: Nikon Z7 II

• Well-designed body
• Excellent stabilisation
• Minor update from original Z7
• 4K 60p video is cropped
• $2,290 / £2,399 body-only
• 45.7MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor
• 10fps shooting (Single AF)

The Nikon Z7 II improves over the original Nikon Z7 in a number of subtle but important ways, making an already very good camera, even better. The camera now features improved continuous shooting, dual card slots, and face/eye/animal detection AF.

There’s a 45.7MP full-frame sensor that provides stunning image quality, backed up by 5-axis in-body image stabilisation and fast, accurate autofocus. The viewfinder is superb, and F-mount SLR lenses can be used via the FTZ adapter. The high-resolution sensor and fast autofocus will be appealing to wedding photographers or anyone that craves speed paired with a serious amount of detail. It’s also useful for cropping if you want to shoot from a distance, too.

A sheer delight to use

You get up to 10fps shooting which, while not superb for action, isn’t too bad if it’s not something you shoot relatively often. But if you’re frequently shooting action, the Z6 II and certainly the Z9 cameras are probably better choices within Nikon’s mirrorless range. It can also shoot 4K video, albeit with a crop.

The Z7 II feels fantastic in the hand and is a delight to pick up and use. Then there’s its fabulous image quality, which is remarkably impressive and offers magnificent latitude when processing Raw files. This is a fantastic all-rounder, which works well for professionals and dedicated enthusiasts who perhaps don’t have the need or the budget for a Z9.

Read our Nikon Z7 II Review

Best for all-rounder for enthusiasts: Canon EOS R6 Mark II

• Excellent design and handling
• Fast shooting and focusing speeds
• Consistently impressive image quality
• RF mount lacks third-party AF lenses
• Some shutter distortion with electronic shutter
• $2,299 / £2,099 body-only
• 24.2MP full-frame sensor

The original Canon EOS R6 was already a superb full-frame all-rounder, one that scooped our Product of the Year award back in 2021 . As such, you can hardly blame Canon for not exactly reinventing the wheel when it came time to bring out the EOS R6 Mark II. This version makes relatively few changes to what was already a superb camera, but the ones it does make are well-chosen, making it one of the best all-around cameras for enthusiasts and professionals.

For a start, while the previous model had a 20MP sensor, this one ups it to a 24.2MP full-frame chip. That may not sound like much, but it makes a real difference when it comes to cropping and printing, and should satisfy the stills shooters who felt that 20MP was perhaps a little on the stingy side.

• Subject-detection autofocus

Elsewhere, the EOS R6 II gets what was the must-have feature of the year 2022: subject-detection autofocus, powered by AI to lock onto specific subjects with unerring accuracy. This combines beautifully with the increased burst rates – the EOS R6 Mark II can rack up to 40fps with its electronic shutter, or a still-respectable 12fps full-resolution raw with the mechanical shutter if you don’t want to run the risk of rolling shutter distortion (which can happen).

DSLR holdouts will likely find themselves mightily tempted by the EOS R6 Mark II. It’s handling is excellent, with a large, deep handgrip and loads of external physical controls. The viewfinder is lively and responsive with a 120fps refresh rate, while the LCD screen can be set to face almost any angle.

In terms of its ability to shoot, well, anything, the EOS R6 Mark II. It’s on the expensive side for an enthusiast’s camera, but at the same time, it’s difficult to think of another camera at this price point that’s  this good at everything. Build up a solid set of RF lenses and you’ve get a setup to tackle all situations.

Read our Canon EOS R6 Mark II review

Best mirrorless cameras for professionals

And at last, here we are at the best of the best. In this section, you’ll find mirrorless cameras commanding pretty serious prices – but that makes sense given that these are designed for professional photographers and videographers. Here you’ll find dazzlingly high megapixel counts, full-frame sensors (and larger), super-fast burst rate and AI-powered autofocus systems intelligent enough to recognise specific subjects.

Best for landscape shooters and print makers: Sony A7R V

• Highest-resolution full-frame camera
• Variable-resolution Raw recording
• Sony menus still (still!) a mess
• No in-camera Raw conversion
• $3,498/ £3,689 body-only
• 61MP full-frame CMOS sensor
• Sony FE-mount
• 10fps continuous shooting
• 8K 24fps video

Sony’s A7R cameras have long led the way in terms of resolution for full-frame mirrorless, and right now if you want megapixels, the A7R V is your port of call. It sports a full-frame chip with 61MP of resolution to play with – currently only the Sigma fp L has it tied, and nobody at all in the world of full-frame has it beat.

Of course, this was also true of the previous A7R IV / A7R IVA – the Mark V version uses the same sensor as its predecessor. So, as someone staring down the barrel of that $4K price tag might reasonably ask, what exactly is new?

The short answer is everything else. Sony has sensibly decided that most people probably didn’t need many more than 61 megapixels (for now, at least), and instead set about upgrading all other aspects of the camera. As such, the A7R V benefits from such up-to-the-minute features as subject-detect autofocus, which we’ve already seen a few times in this guide. The A7R V isn’t exactly a speedster, but with this system and 10fps burst shooting, it does reasonably well with fast subjects, and certainly makes itself credible for more than stately landscapes.

What else is new?

There are external improvements too. The A7R V gets a nice big viewfinder with buckets of resolution, as well as a redesigned screen that combines an up/down tilting mechanism with a fully articulating side hinge. More? Sony also beefed up the in-body stabilisation, which is now rated up to eight effective stops, and can be used in a multi-shot composite mode to produce images up to 240MP in resolution.

The catch is, of course, the price. Sony’s line used to be made up of quite specialised models with different functions, but these days all its cameras seem to be good at everything – and come with a price tag that reflects that. Only time will tell whether this is a savvy strategy on Sony’s part – and only you can tell whether all the features of the A7R V are worth its intimidating price tag.

Read our Sony Alpha A7R V full review

Best for video resolution: Canon EOS R5

• Exceptional autofocus
• Silent 20fps shooting
• Infamous overheating issue
• $2,999 / £2,749 body-only
• 45MP Dual Pixel CMOS AF sensor
• 20fps continuous shooting
• 8K 30p video

An incredibly impressive stills camera, the EOS R5 is one of the very best mirrorless cameras ever launched by Canon to date. The combination of a multi-controller (joystick), a rear thumb dial and dual card slots help make the R5 seem like a mirrorless version of the EOS 5D Mark IV , but with the added benefit of a vari-angle touchscreen.

The EOS R5 has the ability to shoot 45MP files at a staggering 20fps in silence with full AE and AF tracking using its electronic shutter. Switch over to the mechanical shutter and the EOS R5 rattles out a burst at a brisk 12fps. It has a deep buffer to handle the high volumes of data, and records to a CFexpress B card that allows maximum transfer speeds of up to 1.97GB per second and up to 180 uncompressed Raw files to be recorded continuously at 20fps. A second UHS-II compatible SD card slot is added for backup purposes, or separating still images and video between cards but you won’t get such amazing continuous shooting capacity.

In-body image stabilisation (IBIS)

A breakthrough on the EOS R5 was the introduction of in-body image stabilisation (IBIS), which was lacking on both the EOS R and EOS RP. Canon claims it offers up to 8 stops effectiveness when paired with certain RF mount lenses, such as the RF 24-70mm F2.8L and RF 28-70mm F2L. In instances where the EOS R5 is used with Canon lenses that feature optical image stabilisation (IS), the lens corrects yaw and pitch while the body compensates for roll around the lens axis along with vertical and lateral movements.

It also has a superb AF system and, overall, is a remarkably accomplished stills camera. It’s only the much-reported overheating issue when shooting long 8K (30fps) and 4K (up to 120fps) video clips that prevented it from getting a maximum five stars in our review.

Read our Canon EOS R5 review

Best for sports professionals: Nikon Z9

• Integrated vertical grip
• Up to 120fps at 11MP
• And 20fps full-res RAW
• Overkill for most people
• $5,496 / £4,849 body only
• 45.7MP full-frame stacked CMOS sensor
• 120fps continuous at 11MP

The Z9 is Nikon’s new flagship professional full-frame mirrorless camera. It’s capable of shooting 45.7MP images at 20 frames per second in raw (for more than 1,000 frames in a row), or 30fps in JPEG, with continuous autofocus tracking. A new AI subject detection AF system is capable of recognising multiple kinds of subjects, and the camera can also record 8K video for several hours without overheating.

In fact, the Nikon Z9 offers a combination of high-end specifications and professional-level build that simply hasn’t been seen before. Drop the resolution to 11MP, and the Z9 will run at an astonishing 120fps. Crucially, it promises the pro-level control setup and extreme durability that’s essential for photographers who make a living from their cameras.

Low-distortion electronic shutter

Technically, the Z9 breaks new ground in being the first camera of its type to eliminate the mechanical shutter completely. Instead, it relies entirely on a high-speed, low-distortion electronic shutter that’s enabled by its use of a stacked CMOS sensor. Both the Sony Alpha 1 and Canon EOS R3 employ similar technology, but only Nikon has been brave enough to take it to its logical conclusion .

Previously, Nikon split its pro DSLR lines between high-speed sports and action models and high-resolution cameras for wedding, portrait and studio work. But with the Z9, Nikon has aimed to produce a single camera that can do anything a professional photographer might need. It is, arguably, the first mirrorless model to put itself forward as a complete replacement for any professional full-frame DSLR.

You could argue that the Z9 doesn’t actually do very much that the Sony Alpha 1 doesn’t already offer, but the big difference is its chunky, robust build, integrated vertical grip for shooting with large lenses, and the familiar design and handling for long-term Nikon users. It’ll also work with their F-mount DSLR lenses via the FTZ2 adapter. If it’s too rich for your blood, consider the Nikon Z8 , which offers a minorly slimmed-down experience at a (slightly) more approachable price.

Read our Nikon Z9 Review

Best for fast-paced sports: Canon EOS R3

• Versatile in all situations
• Eye-control focus
• May not be enough pixels for some
• $4,499 / £5,499 body-only
• 24.1MP full-frame stacked CMOS sensor
• 30fps shooting (electronic shutter)
• 6K 60p video

The EOS R3 is Canon’s new super-fast, action-focused, professional full-frame mirrorless camera. Indeed, the firm says this is the fastest and most capable camera it has ever made, being capable of shooting at 30 frames per second in full resolution 24MP raw. It can also record 6K raw video at 60 frames per second.

The EOS R3 is built around an all-new 24.1MP full-frame stacked CMOS sensor, which offers a standard sensitivity range of ISO 100-102,400 (expandable to ISO 50-204,800). The stacked architecture brings remarkable speed, including a world-record top shutter speed of 1/64,000sec, and the ability to combine flash with the silent electronic shutter at a sync speed of 1/180sec. The shutter lag is just 20ms, which is so short that Canon offers a menu option to lengthen it to match its DSLRs.

But arguably its most exciting feature is a new twist on an old Canon technology, eye-control focus. This means the camera can detect what the user is looking at in the viewfinder, and then autofocus on it. This futuristic-sounding feature was found on several of Canon’s 35mm film SLRs in the 1990s, but the big difference lies in the way it now works in concert with subject recognition technology.

Eye control AF

Eye Control AF employs an array of infrared LEDs to determine where you’re looking in the viewfinder, which is indicated by a circular blue cursor. The camera then uses this information to select a subject for tracking when the shutter button is held half-pressed. The system must be calibrated to each photographer’s eye, but this is straightforward.

As is becoming increasingly standard, 5-axis in-body image stabilisation (IBIS) is built in. This works together with optically stabilised lenses to provide up to 8 stops of stabilisation (according to CIPA standard ratings). There’s no IBIS-based high-resolution multi-shot mode, but given the camera’s target audience, that’s no great surprise (or loss).

The Canon EOS R3 is an intoxicatingly brilliant camera to shoot with. It boasts one of the most sophisticated autofocus systems around, but makes it remarkably easy to use, allowing you to change settings quickly to suit the situation. You can buy the brilliant EOS R6 II for less than half the price, and spend the money saved on some very nice lenses. But for Canon users who demand the ultimate speed and autofocus performance, the EOS R3 is the camera to get.

Read our Canon EOS R3 Review

Best for high-end professional users: Sony Alpha 1

• Next-generation autofocus
• Amazing dynamic range
• Superb shooting speeds
• Price, obviously
• $6,499 / £5,879 body only
• 50.1MP Exmor RS CMOS full-frame sensor
• 30fps continuous shooting

Sony’s latest flagship model, the Alpha 1, boasts the kind of spec sheet that photographers could only dream of before. Previously we’ve had to choose between resolution or speed, but it delivers both in spades. In terms of pixel count, its 50.1MP full-frame sensor is surpassed in a similar price bracket only by the firm’s own 61MP Alpha 7R IV and Fujifilm’s 102MP medium-format GFX100S…

However, this is combined with the ability to shoot at a startling 30 frames per second, which can be matched by very few other cameras, and all at considerably lower resolutions. The fact that the Alpha 1 can shoot at 50MP and 30fps while adjusting focus and exposure between frames is unprecedented. Oh, and it records 8K video at 30fps and 4K video recording at 120fps.

Stacked CMOS sensor

Sony built the Alpha 1 around an all-new Exmor RS stacked CMOS sensor, in which three chips are effectively sandwiched on top of each other, with the light-sensitive photodiodes connected first to a memory layer, with a processing layer underneath. In principle, this maximises light capturing efficiency, and enables rapid pixel readout, while keeping electronic read noise to a minimum. As a result, the sensor promises an impressive 15 stops of dynamic range, while providing a standard sensitivity range up to ISO 32,000 (expandable up to ISO 102,400).

You also get an impressively quick autofocus system and 5-axis in-body image stabilisation. With the Alpha 1, Sony rewrote the rule book for what we can expect a camera to do. It offers higher resolution than almost anything else, combined with astonishing shooting speeds. This is backed up by an extraordinary AF system that can track moving subjects with unerring accuracy. The obvious people who will benefit from the ability to shoot 50MP images at 30fps are professional sports photographers. Designed to be the ultimate sports and video camera, the only thing you need to decide is if it meets your needs and is worth the price!

Read our Sony Alpha 1 review

How to choose the best mirrorless cameras

When looking at mirrorless cameras, you want to weigh up their various specs with your shooting priorities. Having more resolution makes sense if you want to make high-quality prints of your images, but if you’re only going to be sharing images online, all those pixels will just slow down your process.

If you want to capture fast action, then a fast  burst rate is a must. For low light work, a broad  ISO range will help, and you may also want to consider a camera with in-body image stabilisation (IBIS) as this allows for the use of slower shutter speeds (thus gaining more light) without blurring the image. Many camera systems offer lens-based optical image stabilisation (OIS ) and the two, OIS and IBIS, can work collaboratively for even greater benefit.

Also, different mirrorless cameras will use a different  lens mount , so you will want to look at what lenses are available for a camera before committing, particularly as many full-frame lenses cost a lot of money.

Sensor size

There are a range of different sensor sizes available for mirrorless cameras – the ones we’ll be dealing with are (from smallest to largest): Four Thirds, APS-C, full-frame and medium format. Larger sensors provide better image quality, but cost more, and require bigger cameras. On that subject, mirrorless cameras come in a wide range of different  sizes and weights , so have a think about how much weight you’re comfortable lugging around. If you need to get your head around sensor sizes, see our guide to APS-C vs full-frame .

Finally, there’s video , which is fast becoming the driving force behind new camera development. 4K video capture has become a basic expectation, but some cameras can shoot 6K, even 8K video. Faster frame rates can offer powerful slow-motion effects, and the best cameras can achieve this even at 4K resolution.

What is the difference between a mirrorless camera and a DSLR?

If you’re not sure whether you should buy a DSLR or a mirrorless camera, then have a look at our complete guide to DSLR vs Mirrorless cameras .

In a nutshell, the future of photography is mirrorless cameras, with all major brands, including Canon, Nikon, Sony, Panasonic, Fujifilm, Olympus/OM System committing themselves to mirrorless cameras. The only brand still making new DSLRs is Pentax.

Mirrorless cameras offer the latest tech, the newest sensors, and the fastest performance, as well as completely new lenses designed specifically for mirrorless cameras, and that gives them a range of benefits over older, slower DSLRs. DSLR and Mirrorless cameras are just two of the different types of camera available .

How we test cameras

We test cameras primarily by using them to take photographs and video in a wide range of real-world situations. We evaluate their control layouts and handling, and the usability of their viewfinders and screens. We assess their autofocus across a range of different subjects and shooting scenarios and check their continuous shooting capabilities.

We also examine the effectiveness of their image stabilisation systems. Last but by no means least, we critically evaluate the image quality, in both JPEG and raw, including resolution, high-ISO noise, and dynamic range. We then take all these factors into account, along with such things as portability and lens systems, when giving our final conclusion and score. You’ll find the full breakdown of how each camera has performed in our full reviews.

Text by Geoff Harris, with contributions from Joshua Waller, Jon Stapley & Michael Topham.

Further reading :

• Best lenses for mirrorless camera systems
• Why it’s time to change to mirrorless
• Best Nikon mirrorless cameras
• Best Canon mirrorless cameras
• Best second-hand full-frame mirrorless cameras

Follow AP on Facebook , Twitter , Instagram , YouTube and TikTok .

I am the deputy editor of Amateur Photographer, working closely with the team to make the website and magazine as good as possible. I've been working on magazines since 1995 and am also a keen travel and portrait photographer when time allows, reaching the finals of the Pink Lady Food Photographer of the Year contest in 2015 and achieving my Licentiate from the Royal Photographic Society the year before. I also keep my wedding-photography hand in by shooting a few ceremonies a year. I am particularly interested in how photography can help people express their creativity more effectively, or deal with mental health issues and other challenges.

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Notable Mentions

Recent updates, all reviews, the 5 best cameras for beginners - summer 2024 reviews.

If you're just starting photography, it might be tempting to go for a brand-new camera with all the bells and whistles, but even the most expensive gear in the world won't make you a better photographer if you don't know what you're doing. So, the best camera to start photography with is simply the one that'll get you out there shooting. We've included some pricier options here for those who want more advanced features or have a larger budget, but our advice for beginners is to get whichever camera is within your means and work on learning the basics. Most importantly, have fun with it!

This list is geared primarily toward users who want to buy a new camera, but there's a huge used market for cameras on eBay and at retailers like Adorama , B&H Photo Video , KEH Camera , and MPB , where you can find deals on older models. Don't forget that a camera's overall performance will also vary depending on the lens you use. As a general rule, it's better to invest in a less expensive camera body and higher-quality lenses than it is to invest in an expensive camera body and cheap lenses.

We've bought and tested over 100 cameras in our lab, and below, you'll find our top recommended cameras for beginners. If you already know you'd prefer a mirrorless or a DSLR camera, you can look at the best mirrorless cameras for beginners or the best DSLR cameras for beginners , respectively. Or, if you're looking to get into vlogging or content creation, check out our recommendations for the best vlogging cameras instead. Finally, if you're on a budget, the best budget mirrorless cameras may be of interest.

Best Camera For Beginners

The Canon EOS R10 is the priciest camera on our list, but it's also the best digital camera for beginners. This is a great camera for both photography and light video work, with a good balance of features for beginners and more advanced users looking to upgrade from an older camera or DSLR. Like most of Canon's entry-level offerings, it has a lightweight feel, great ergonomics, and an intuitive, beginner-friendly interface. It's well-suited to a range of photography styles, with a high-res sensor, quick burst shooting, and one of the best autofocus (AF) systems you'll find among entry-level cameras.

The biggest downside here is that Canon's RF lens lineup is still being built out, so lens options are somewhat limited. If you want a camera with a more established lens ecosystem, the Fujifilm X-S10 is another fantastic entry-level camera. It's one of the few cameras in its price range to feature in-body image stabilization (IBIS), which can help you reduce camera shake when shooting handheld. That said, its autofocus isn't nearly as reliable as the Canon's, and it may be harder to find one brand new.

See our review

Best-Built Camera For Beginners

The Nikon Z 50 is a good choice for those who prioritize build quality and ergonomics. It's the only model on this list that's weather-sealed, providing some added peace of mind when shooting outdoors, and it feels very well-built for a starter camera. Nikon cameras are also known for their excellent ergonomics, with well-placed controls and large hand grips. Beyond that, the camera has a tilting screen that can flip down for selfies and a large high-res viewfinder for a clear view of your subjects.

While the Z 50 doesn't have the highest-resolution sensor among its peers, it still delivers excellent image quality and performs well in low light. It's also a good choice for action photography, thanks to a quick burst rate and a decent autofocus system, though it isn't as effective as the AF on the Canon EOS R10 above. Just be aware that lens support is still relatively limited for Nikon's mirrorless Z mount, especially if you're considering APS-C options. If you want more lens selection, the similarly priced Sony α6400 has a ton of native and third-party lens options and feels well-constructed, though its ergonomics and user interface leave a lot to be desired.

Best Budget Camera For Beginners

The Canon EOS R50 is the best camera for photography beginners on a budget. With a highly portable body, you'll want to take it with you wherever you go. Like the Canon EOS R10 above, its simple controls and intelligent auto-shooting mode make it a good fit for anyone upgrading from their smartphone. Plus, its autofocus system is quite reliable, with a range of subject detection modes to ensure your subject stays in focus, no matter where your interests lie. It's also a solid choice for video and vlogging, with 4k recording at up to 30 fps and surprisingly advanced video specs for the price. That said, this camera doesn't have the longest battery life for video.

If you want something more portable for travel, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is another great budget camera. The R50 is a bit cheaper and has a more effective autofocus system, but the Olympus is part of the Micro Four Thirds system, which offers more lens options and makes for a more portable overall kit. The Olympus is also one of the very few budget options to feature IBIS for steadier handheld shooting.

Best Cheap Camera For Beginners

If you want something truly cheap and prefer to avoid buying used, the Canon EOS Rebel T7/2000D is the most affordable DSLR Canon offers. It's also the best camera for beginners on a very tight budget. It's a real back-to-basics camera with very few bells and whistles—you won't find a tilting screen or even 4k video recording here, let alone more advanced features.

So, why are we recommending this ultra-basic DSLR from 2018? Because if this is the only camera on the list that you can afford, then it's worth it if it gets you out there shooting. It may not have features like IBIS or advanced subject detection modes, but it does have a high-resolution APS-C sensor that can capture beautiful photos, along with a well-established lens ecosystem. Many of Canon's EF/EF-S lenses are also quite affordable for beginners and budget shooters, making it easier to upgrade whenever you outgrow the kit lens.

Easiest-To-Use Camera For Beginners

The Nikon D3500 is the best digital camera for beginners who've never used a camera before. That's all thanks to its unique interactive Guide Mode. Built right into the mode dial, the Guide Mode walks you through the camera's features in simplified terms so you can learn the ropes of photography as you go. While it doesn't have all of the extra features you'll find on newer, more advanced mirrorless models like the Canon EOS R50 , the D3500 does have an excellent high-resolution sensor that punches above its class, plus a ton of high-quality lens options and a much longer battery life than mirrorless alternatives.

With that said, the D3500 has been discontinued and is harder to find new, so you'll likely have to pick up a used model. If you can find one, though, older DSLRs like this or previous iterations like the Nikon D3400 or D3300 are great, cost-effective options to dip your toe into "serious" photography. Overall, the D3500's Guide Mode and simple design make it the best choice for those who've never used a camera.

• Canon EOS R100: The Canon EOS R100 is the mirrorless answer to the Canon EOS Rebel T7/2000D. It's a cheap but basic camera that'll get the job done. While it offers some advantages over the T7, like portability and 4k video, the limited lens selection for the RF mount makes the T7 a better overall choice for beginners. See our review
• Canon EOS Rebel SL3/250D: The Canon EOS Rebel SL3/250D is a great budget DSLR that's relatively portable. Unlike the Nikon D3500, it has a fully articulated screen and can record 4k video, but it has a worse battery life and lacks an in-depth guide mode. See our review
• Fujifilm X-T30 II: The Fujifilm X-T30 II is a good mid-range option that's more portable than the Canon EOS R10 and captures photos with pleasing colors and minimal noise straight out of the camera. However, its dedicated exposure controls are less accessible to newcomers, and its autofocus isn't as reliable. See our review
• Nikon D5600: The Nikon D5600 sits above the Nikon D3500 in Nikon's lineup of entry-level DSLRs. It doesn't have a guide shooting mode and is a bit pricier, but it's a great mid-range option that gives you a more advanced autofocus system and a fully articulated screen. However, it's also been discontinued and may be harder to find. See our review

Jul 18, 2024: We've checked the price and availability of our picks to make sure they still represent the best cameras for user needs.

Jun 19, 2024: We reviewed the article, with minor touch-ups for clarity, to check that the recommendations are still accurate and relevant.

May 22, 2024: We assessed the current picks in the article to ensure that they're still available and relevant for beginners.

Apr 24, 2024: We renamed the Nikon Z 50 from 'Best Mid-Range Camera For Beginners' to 'Best Built Camera For Beginners' to more accurately represent the benefits and market positions of our picks.

Mar 28, 2024: We've reviewed the article to ensure that the picks and text are still up to date.

Our recommendations above are what we think are currently the best cameras for photography beginners to buy, according to their needs. We factor in the price, feedback from our visitors, and availability (no cameras that are difficult to find or almost out of stock in the USA).

If you'd like to choose for yourself, here's the list of all our reviews for cameras under $1,000. Be careful not to get caught up in the details. There is no single perfect camera. Personal taste, preference, and shooting habits will matter more in your selection.

The best mirrorless camera in 2024: get the right camera at the right price!

These are the best mirrorless cameras right now, whether you're after a holiday snapper or a pro performer

The Quick List

• Best overall
• Best professional
• Best affordable
• Best for vlogging
• Best for travel
• Best for filmmaking
• Best for beginners
• Best sports and wildlife
• How to choose
• How we test

The ‘best’ mirrorless camera can be different things to different people. Obviously it means one thing if I want to take holiday snaps, and another if I want to film a documentary. So the best tool for the job really depends on the job – which is why this guide is divided into different use cases. 

I own and use a lot of different cameras but, for my money, the best mirrorless camera overall is probably the Canon EOS R7 – an APS-C powerhouse with all the punch of a full-frame camera, combined with all the advantages of a cropped sensor. Again it has particular pros and cons depending on what you use it for, but it's the most adaptable camera on this list in the overlapping Venn diagram of price, performance and portability.

My advice is to work out what you actually need from your camera, and then click on the relevant link in our menu. Want something for vlogging? For wildlife? Something for beginners? These recommendations are pitched accordingly. 

I'm lucky enough to have played with every camera on this list, and the DCW team has reviewed and lab-tested each one according to its specialism, so you can be sure that you're being recommended the best mirrorless camera for you . 

As a proud owner of the Panasonic G1 , the first ever mirrorless camera (launched in 2008), I was an early adopter of the technology. I switched to the trailblazing Olympus cameras in the mid-2010s, and in 2018 I sold my Canon DSLR to join the EOS R system as well. I've been a mirrorless convert since day one, when the tech was still a little primitive, through to today where it's now the industry standard.

Don't get swayed by full-frame! The R7 packs combines speed, stabilization and resolution with all the benefits of a smaller sensor – like an amplified focal range, perfect for genres like wildlife. I would (and have!) taken this camera on any job. Read more below

Made for pros who demand the absolute best, this will please photographers and filmmakers alike with its all-around prowess, from 45.7MP stills to 8K video. For me, the size gives this the advantage over the otherwise near-identical Z8.   Read more below

The E-M10 series has always been great value, and the Mark IV adds power and sophistication with a 20MP sensor, improved stabilization, and a flip-down monitor that tilts 180° for selfies. I think it's ideal for newcomers to photography, too. Read more below

The Sony ZV-E1 is ideal for vlogging and content creation, with a full-frame sensor, in-body image stabilization, and Sony's S-Cinetone and S-Log3. The ZV product line is very confusing, but this is the one I would go for right now. Read more below

The X-S20 doesn't have the external exposure controls of the higher-level X cameras, but that arguably makes it better suited to run-and-gun vacation vlogging and shooting. I love all of Fujifilm's X cameras, but this is perfect to pack for a holiday. Read more below

Panasonic has always had one of the best reputations when it comes to video, and the Lumix S5 IIX steps this up with the debut of phase detect AF as well as pro-level in-camera recording. I'll reach for this camera if I need to film something! Read more below

View the full list ⤵

Other cameras have caught up in some departments, but the R5 is still an almost unbeatable Swiss Army knife of a camera: 45MP stills, 8K video, best AF in the business, 8 stops of in-body image stabilization… Canon made a monster. And I bought one! Read more below

If you, or anyone you know, is just starting photography, this is the camera to get. Simple to use (it guides you through the menus!) yet packing plenty of power under the hood, I think the R100 is an exceptional camera for beginners. Read more below

I've never used a camera like the A9 III! With its full-frame 120fps burst shooting, global shutter sensor and 1/80,000 sec sync speed, this is the ultimate camera for fast-paced action and top-tier sports photography. Read more below

The best mirrorless cameras I recommend in 2024

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I've extensively used every camera on this list, and I'm fortunate enough to have owned a few of them as well, so I'm confident in saying that these are the best mirrorless cameras in their particular category. I'm brand agnostic, so I'm simply choosing the cameras that I feel do the best job for a given purpose – having tried them out specifically for that purpose! 

Best mirrorless camera overall

1. Canon EOS R7

Our expert review:

Specifications

Reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

✅ You want a camera that does everything:  The R7 is a true jack of all trades – in a good way! It's small, fast, high-resolution, has amazing autofocus and dual card slots. 

✅ You shoot wildlife:  Its 30fps burst mode is ideal for shooting fast action. Combined with its 1.6x APS-C crop factor, which makes your lenses effectively longer, this is a great camera for capturing subjects at a distance. 

❌ You want a full frame camera:  This is an APS-C camera, which has advantages, but if you want the power of a full frame sensor then look to something like the R5.

❌ You want the best lens selection:  Canon has an extensive line of RF (mirrorless) and EF (DSLR) lenses that can be used, but the third-party range is limited. 

The R7 is the mirrorless replacement for three of the most popular DSLRs that Canon ever made: the EOS 90D , EOS 7D and EOS 80D . However, more than just doing the same thing but without a mirror, Canon has turned these speed-focused wildlife specialists into an all-purpose performer that can handle anything you throw at it.

Of course, the Canon EOS R7 still retains its pedigree when it comes to wildlife, sports and action. Its blistering 30fps maximum shooting speed is on par with the flagship Canon EOS R3 , and the 1.6x crop factor means that the effective focal length of your lenses is extended. My creaky old EF 75-300mm lens becomes a whopping 120-480mm on this camera! It also boasts the same bleeding-edge autofocus system found in the flagship camera, which I called a cheat code for wildlife photography . 

On top of that, though, the R7 does everything you could ask of it. Unlike most APS-C cameras, it doesn't compromise on resolution thanks to its 32.5MP sensor. When I want to shoot video, I'm getting glorious 4K (which has been oversampled from 7K) with dedicated headphone and microphone jacks. There's twin card slots, so you don't have to worry about corrupted data, and the in-body image stabilization is good for up to 8 stops. If anyone scoffs at an APS-C camera being top of this list, they've clearly never used this camera. 

Read my full Canon EOS R7 review for more details.

• Back to the top ⤴

Best professional mirrorless camera

2. Nikon Z9

✅ You want pro performance:  With 45.7MP stills, 8K 60p video, up to 120fps bursts, top autofocus and stabilization, the Z9 is a professional tool in every department. 

✅ You need pro build quality:  It's fully weather sealed, with an integrated vertical grip and exposure controls, a huge battery, and balances much better with big pro glass.

❌ You want "true" 120fps:  While it shoots up to 120fps, it does so with reduced image size (11MP JPEGs rather than 45.7MP RAWs). The Sony A9 III takes "full fat" 120fps shots. 

❌ You want a small body:  The Z9 has a traditional "pro DSLR" form factor with the vertical grip, but the Z8 is the same camera in a conventional, compact mirrorless body.

Some say that Nikon was late to the party with its pro mirrorless camera. The moment I used it, though, I knew that Nikon hadn't been tardy: it had been canny. This is the most top-to-bottom capable mirrorless camera on the market right now. 

The 8K is as good as anything I've experienced from the Sony or Canon, particularly its market-first 8K 60p. I was skeptical when I saw that Nikon had ditched the mechanical shutter but, with a blinding 120fps continuous shooting and a max shutter speed of 1/32,000, the Z9 simply stands in a league of its own. (Yes, admittedly those 120 frames are only 11MB JPEGs, but it's still hugely impressive).

The autofocus is a few steps behind Canon's, and even Sony's, but the deep learning-powered system is still truly incredible whether you're shooting people, animals, planes, trains or automobiles. The stabilization is rock-solid, it's as rugged as they come… the only thing I don't like is Nikon's counter-intuitive mounting and ring directions! 

The Z9 comes in quite a bit cheaper than both the Sony A1 and the Canon EOS R3 flagships, and it has a lot of advanced features. However, if you want the same features for even less money (and an even smaller body), the Nikon Z8 has identical specs with a lower price tag.

Read my full Nikon Z9 review for more details

Best affordable mirrorless camera

3. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

✅ You want bang-for-buck features:  The E-M10 IV packs more features than most cameras, especially at its price! Stabilization, art filters, 4K, selfie screen, a great phone app – it's brilliant value.

✅ You want a compact system:  Micro Four Thirds cameras (and, most importantly, their lenses) are ultra-small. This is perfect for anyone wanting a small, lightweight system. 

❌ You want a large(r) sensor:  Micro Four Thirds sensors are physically smaller than both APS-C and full frame, so there are compromises in terms of crude ISO performance. 

❌ You need resolution:  The 20.3MP sensor has enough detail for a magazine spread, but if you want large prints then you're better off with a camera that has more pixels.

I liked the E-M10 so much that I bought my partner one for her birthday. If that's not putting my money where my mouth is, I don't know what is! In addition to being one of the prettiest cameras on this list, the E-M10 Mark IV is also the smallest – making it perfect for travel and street photography, and an ideal holiday camera. And just because it's the most affordable, doesn't mean it skimps on features. 

With a guided user interface, it's an exceptional camera for beginner and intermediate photographers eager to unlock new skills. It boasts super-sturdy in-body image stabilization, along with 4K video and a responsive touchscreen that flips down 180° – ideal for selfies and walkabout vlogging. 

The small Micro Four Thirds sensor is even more compact than APS-C, giving two big benefits: the lenses, not just the body, are much smaller, making this a genuine take-anywhere system. And the 2x crop factor means that your 300mm lens instantly becomes a 600mm – great if you want to shoot faraway subjects! There are trade-offs with a smaller sensor, but honestly they're nothing that good camera craft can't compensate for. This is a brilliant all-round performer at a brilliant price. 

Read our full Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV review for more details

Best mirrorless camera for vlogging

4. Sony ZV-E1

✅ You're a content creator:  This camera has been tailor made for video, vlogging and content creation, with features and physical layout that suits those needs. 

✅ You need great audio:  While you should use a separate microphone, sometimes you're stuck using the built-in mic – and the ZV-E1 has an extra-large, extra-good one!

❌ You want to shoot photos:  While it can shoot stills, the 12.1MP sensor is very low-resolution by today's standards. 

❌ You use large lenses:  This camera is so small that it is dwarfed by medium to large lenses, and it's particularly tricky to shoot with them handheld.

If you're confused by Sony's overwhelming ZV line of cameras, you're not alone – I am too! But I can safely say that, right now, the ZV-E1 is the best vlogging body you can buy. 

It's small, compact and lightweight, while packing in some incredible features like an image-stabilized full-frame sensor, and subject recognition and auto tracking that comes straight out of the Sony A7R V . The camera is also incredibly simple and intuitive to use, so is perfect for anyone wanting professional looking footage without knowing a lot about cameras. 

Video footage is excellent, sharp, clear, and with good color direct from the camera. While the stills are of very high quality, they are obviously limited by the 12MP sensor – and pretty much a second thought for a vlogging camera, so this isn't the end of the world. While I still rank Canon's AF more highly for stills, Sony's latest autofocus tracking is a sight to behold when it comes to video, especially for human subjects. It is incredibly fast and accurate, with its AI powers meaning you don’t have to worry about focus and can think about other aspects of filming. 

Read our full Sony ZV-E1 review for more details

Best mirrorless camera for travel

5. Fujifilm X-S20

✅ You want great battery life:  The souped-up battery is good for 800 shots on paper, but with care you can squeeze off almost 1,000!  

✅ You're a video shooter:  This is a real video powerhouse. Not only does it capture 6K 30p, it also offers open-gate (full sensor) recording for ultimate flexibility!

❌ You need weather sealing:  If you're travelling to somewhere rainy, dusty or extremely hot or cold, this may not offer adequate durability. 

❌ You want Fujifilm control dials:  While Fujifilm's cameras are known for their manual dials, the X-S20 abandons them in favor of more conventional controls. 

Some vacations require the take-anywhere convenience of a waterproof camera that can go to the beach, but when you need to take image quality on a world tour then it's hard to beat the X-S20's combination of size, speed, versatility and features. Not to mention its looks! Maybe I'm being vain, but if you're on vacation, then the chances are that you're going to be appearing in some holiday snaps – so you'll be grateful to have a timeless, chic-looking camera around your neck. 

A fantastic hybrid camera, the X-S20 offers a seamless shooting experience from stills through to video, for users of all levels, with its intuitive and straightforward designed controls and compact and portable form factor making it convenient to carry everywhere. But portability doesn't come at the expense of power.

As well as stunning 26.1MP images, the X-S20 enables you to record high-quality 6K videos – in open gate, no less, meaning you get the full height and width of the sensor instead of the baked-in 16:9 that most cameras record in – with professional-level output and RAW codes. 

The seven stops of in-body image stabilization provide rock-solid shake compensation. And while Fujifilm 's autofocus still trails its rivals, for my money, it's very, very good – and unless you're planning to shoot sports, more than enough to cover your vacation!

Read our full Fujifilm X-S20 review for more details

Best mirrorless camera for filmmaking

6. Panasonic Lumix S5 IIX

✅ You shoot video:  With open-gate 6K 30p, ProRes RAW and B-RAW, 4:2:2 10-bit, LongGOP, SSD recording and more, this is a videographer's dream. 

✅ You rely on stabilization:  When you don't have a gimbal, the incredible in-body image stabilization (up to 6.5 stops) outperforms even higher-specced competition. 

❌ You shoot a lot of texture:  The camera omits a low-pass filter, which is great for fine detail – but can invite the moiré effect sometimes caused by patterns such as fabric. 

❌ You rely on a tally light:  A rare miss for the otherwise excellent video features is the lack of a tally light, to indicate when the camera is recording.

I've always found it hard to recommend Panasonic cameras due to their clunky contrast-detection AF systems, but that all changed with the S5 IIX! It sees the debut of the phase-detect technology that Lumix cameras have long needed – and I'm so happy to be able to say that it rockets this camera to the front of the class for video. 

There's a lot of competition in this category, and while the regular Lumix S5 II may be the best overall value camera at this price point, the S5II X opens up some great use cases for solo filmmakers at a relatively small bump in price. What’s most impressive here is that the S5II X doesn’t compromise S5II features to add extra video functionality, in fact, it added some features straight out of the box, including better AF and Live View Composite mode that only came to the S5II via firmware update.

If you’re a creator or a filmmaker who needs a top-tier hybrid camera that’s compact and can produce content that slips into professional workflows, without compromising on image quality, the S5II X makes a compelling case for itself. Even if RAW video capabilities weren’t an immediate interest of mine, ALL-I compression, the ability to shoot directly to SSDs and streaming functionality would have been enough to tip the balance in its favor over its stablemate and the competition. 

Read our full Panasonic Lumix S5 IIX review for more details

Best Canon mirrorless camera

7. Canon EOS R5

✅ You want an all-purpose powerhouse:  From 45MP stills at up to 20fps to 400MP(!) photographs to 8K 30p video, this camera offers pure horsepower. 

✅ You want the best autofocus:  Other opinions are available but, having tested them all, I've found the AF system in this camera better than any other on the market.

❌ You want third-party AF lenses:  Only Canon makes RF autofocus lenses – currently, third parties are not able to produce them, so there are no cheaper alternatives.

❌ You shoot a lot of 8K:  There are limits that restrict how much 8K (or 4K HQ) you can shoot before the camera overheats. The Canon EOS R5C is a better option for video.

When someone who reviews cameras for a living buys a camera, you should probably pay attention. I was so blown away by the R5 after playing with the prototype that I dropped three-and-a-half grand on launch day – and I haven't regretted it for a second. I honestly think it's Canon's finest product ever. 

I said it in my comments about the EOS R7 above, and I'll say it again here: Canon's Dual Pixel CMOS Autofocus II system isn't just the best in the industry, it's nothing short of a cheat code . And when it comes to image stabilization on full frame cameras, I don't think it gets better than this – it's leagues ahead of Sony, and bested only by crop sensor systems that have much smaller sensors to stabilize.

The R5's 45MP sensor delivers jaw-dropping stills, and is also capable of 8K 30p video – and a great hack is that you can film something in 8K, then extract a 35MP still image that's absolutely pin-sharp. Ideal for hybrid shooters covering things like weddings who want two bites of the cherry. Oh, and did I mention it can also shoot 400MP photographs ?

The 8K does, of course, have some well-publicized limitations. And the overheating restrictions extend to 4K HQ, meaning that this isn't an ideal camera if video is your primary field. But I'll be straight with you – aside from review purposes where I torture tested it, I've never actually made this camera overheat in personal use. I can't give it a higher endorsement than the fact that I bought one with my own money – and four years on, I have zero plans to sell it. 

Read my full Canon EOS R5 review for more details

Best mirrorless camera for beginners

8. Canon EOS R100

✅ You've never used a ‘proper’ camera:  The guided menus offer explanations of what the modes do, to help you learn and understand.

✅ You want something compact:  The R100 is Canon's smallest interchangeable-lens camera, so you can upgrade from a phone without having to carry heavy kit.

❌ You want touch control:  The R100 doesn't offer a touchscreen, so you need to use the buttons and dials to change settings and use menus.

❌ You want to shoot 4K:  With a 1.55x crop, and contrast-only autofocus, the 4K mode here is quite compromised (but FullHD video is great).

A cheap DSLR may be more affordable, but I've always said that a mirrorless camera is the best way for someone to learn photography – and thanks to the EOS R100, now we have a camera that ticks both boxes. This is an affordable camera and a great entry point into Canon's incredible EOS R ecosystem, boasting some truly incredible lenses and technology, meaning that your kit can grow with you as your skills develop.  

The R100 is fantastic for beginners because, like all mirrorless cameras, what you see in the viewfinder (or the back screen) is literally how your photos will look – unlike DSLRs, where you had to check the back of the camera after every shot to see if your exposure was right. The EOS R100 shows you exactly how adjusting things like aperture and shutter speed affects your image, doing a great job of teaching you the principles of photography.

The camera also has a guided user interface, helping you unlock skills and showing you how to achieve creative effects like blurred backgrounds and arrested motion. And none of it comes at the expense of quality, with a potent 24.1MP sensor that delivers results on par with far more advanced and expensive cameras. 

At this price you will, however, need to make do with a fixed screen without touch control, as well as 4K that is cropped and loses the brilliant AF system found in stills shooting. But as a beginner body, designed to help you develop your photographic skills, those things really aren't important here. I've taken shots with this camera that are so good, I use them in my professional portfolio! 

Read my full Canon EOS R100 review for more details 

Best mirrorless camera for sports and wildlife

9. Sony A9 III

✅ You need top speed:  With a staggering burst rate of 120fps (producing 24.6MP RAWs) this is the king of speed!

✅ You want to use flash at any speed:  Forget high speed sync – thanks to the global shutter, you can sync at any speed and completely overpower the sun for stills.

❌ You're fussy about ISO:  A compromise of global shutter sensors is lower sensitivity, so the ISO starts at 250 and images are slightly noisier.

❌ You're a video shooter:  Again, the global shutter sensor is built for speed over fidelity. Along with more limited ISo comes more limited dynamic range – not ideal for video.

I have never used a camera like the A9 III, because there is no camera like the A9 III. It's the first camera to feature a full-frame global shutter sensor, which is so lightning-fast that it completely eradicates rolling shutter, achieving a maximum shutter speed of 1/80,000 sec, and being able to sync with flash at any speed. Oh, and can shoot full-frame, full-resolution 24.6MP RAW images at 120fps (the Nikon Z8 and Z9 can shoot at 120fps, but only low-res 11MP JPEGs). 

In short, it's so fast that it doesn't just catch the decisive moment – it catches the decisive moments between the decisive moments, making it the ultimate tool for sports photography (and, indeed, wildlife) when the blink of an eyelid, the tension of a tendon, or the grit being kicked up on the ground can be the difference between a killer shot and a missed opportunity. 

Sony's always-reliable AF now employs a dedicated AI processing unit, with Real-time Recognition AF and predictive algorithms that possess "human pose estimation technology". This is generally brilliant but does, occasionally, wobble. The only other asterisk is a higher base ISO of 250, due to the sensitivity tradeoff with global shutter technology (and, thus, slightly less clean images). 

However, those are literally the only two strikes against this camera that I've encountered. I tested it on some of the fastest human subjects in the world – Olympic athletes, training for the Paris Games – and there's no other camera that would have been able to keep up with it.

Read my Sony A9 III review for more details 

How to choose the best mirrorless camera

Is a mirrorless camera better than a dslr.

In short, yes! Once upon a time, the price disparity between DSLRs and mirrorless cameras could be a real deal-breaker. Today, however, mirrorless technology is now "the norm", and thus much more affordable. Yes you can get a DSLR for less money, but unless you have a true need for one then it's false economy; DSLR development has all but ceased (Pentax is the only company still producing new models) while mirrorless is the new standard. 

In short, mirrorless cameras employ drastically improved autofocus technology, are smaller and lighter, can achieve superior optical quality thanks to more advanced lenses, show you exactly what your images will look like at the point of capture, possess advanced sensor shift technology for in-body image stabilization and pixel-shift resolution boosts, are better for video… take a look at our DSLR vs mirrorless cameras guide to see what all the differences are. 

What are the disadvantages of a mirrorless camera?

While there are far more advantages, there are a couple of aspects of mirrorless cameras that fall short of their DLSR predecessors – and the main one is battery life. 

Because mirrorless cameras constantly shoot in live view, they always need to power a monitor (either the LCD screen or the electronic viewfinder). The more advanced AF system, with more focus points and more complex algorithms, are also a constant drain, as is the image stabilization system that makes the sensor hover in a magnetic field. Since a DSLR doesn't even need to be switched on to look through the lens, it has far superior battery life. My solution, of course, is to carry an extra battery and a power bank.

Speaking of viewfinders, some purists lament the loss of the optical viewfinder. Despite the electronic finder shows you exactly what your final exposure will look like, many traditional photographers simply prefer the crisp old-school look of a glass pentaprism. I can't say that I ascribe to this perspective myself, nor do any photographers I know personally… but they are certainly out there!

Which mirrorless camera has the best image quality?

This is a highly subjective question, so your mileage may vary. However, Canon is generally regarded to have the best "color science" of all manufacturers, with the most lifelike and pleasing rendition of natural hues and particularly skin tones. (By contrast, Sony is often criticized for having undesirable colors that need correcting in post-processing.) 

In truth, every mirrorless camera from the major manufacturers has fantastic image quality these days. However, if you want the absolute tippy-top quality, I would point you towards the Hasselblad X2D – which I believe has the best color science in the business .

Does sensor size matter?

Yes, sensor size matters depending on how you shoot, what you're shooting, and why you're shooting it. Sometimes a smaller sensor is better, as it affords smaller cameras and lenses and the image stabilization is better. Other times, though, a larger sensor is better, in terms of things like resolution and low light performance. Here's a quick rundown, from smallest to largest:

Micro Four Thirds is the smallest sensor format, but the image quality is surprisingly close to that of bulkier APS-C cameras. These cameras are small, powerful, and affordable. Their crop factor increases depth of field along with the effective focal length of your lenses by 2x.

APS-C cameras provide a good balance between quality and price, with a sensor roughly twice the size of Micro Four Thirds cameras. The crop factor again increases depth of field and the effective length of your glass, but only by 1.5x (or 1.6x for Canon APS-C cameras).

Full frame mirrorless cameras have sensors the same size as 35mm film negatives, and about twice the size of APS-C. This gives them better quality, due to each pixel being larger (and able to gather more light, with less noise), and they can also possess much greater resolution. The trade-off is that they are also bigger and more expensive.

Medium format cameras have sensors even larger than those in full frame cameras, but carry a price tag to reflect that. They boast supreme image quality, but are much larger and slower – both in terms of their physical handling, as well as when it comes to things like continuous shooting speeds. 

How we test mirrorless cameras

I take every camera into the field and use it in real shooting situations, sometimes even on my professional shoots and commissions. More importantly, I test them in real shooting situations specific to the camera – so I'll test a wildlife camera's ability to photograph animals, rather than to shoot landscapes. 

This practical, hands-on evaluation complements the technical testing by taking into consideration factors like how a camera performs indoors, outdoors, when it's overheating, when I'm using natural or supplemental light, how long the battery lasts and how easy it is to use. Having used almost every camera released in the past six years, I can also put them into context – because a newer model isn't automatically better than one that's been out for a while.

My colleague Ben Andrews , our lab manager, complements this hands-on evaluation with dedicated lab tests on camera resolution, dynamic range, and noise under scientifically controlled conditions using two key testing tools: Imatest Master and DxO Analyzer:

1. Resolution (ISO-12233):  We use a resolution chart based on ISO-12233 from Applied Image inc to indicate the limit of the camera’s vertical resolution at the centre of the frame. The higher the value, the better the detail resolution.

2. Dynamic range (DxO Analyzer):  This is a measure of a camera’s ability to capture detail in the highlights and shadows. We use DxO’s transmissive chart, which enables us to test a dynamic range of 13.3 stops.

3. Noise (DxO Analyzer):  We use the dynamic range transmissive chart to analyze the signal-to-noise ratio for RAW and JPG files at every sensitivity setting using DxO Analyzer. A higher value means the signal is cleaner.

Find out more about how we test and review on Digital Camera World

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The editor of Digital Camera World, James has 21 years experience as a journalist and started working in the photographic industry in 2014 (as an assistant to Damian McGillicuddy, who succeeded David Bailey as Principal Photographer for Olympus). In this time he shot for clients like Aston Martin Racing, Elinchrom and L'Oréal, in addition to shooting campaigns and product testing for Olympus, and providing training for professionals. This has led him to being a go-to expert for camera and lens reviews, photo and lighting tutorials, as well as industry news, rumors and analysis for publications like Digital Camera Magazine ,  PhotoPlus: The Canon Magazine ,  N-Photo: The Nikon Magazine ,  Digital Photographer and Professional Imagemaker, as well as hosting workshops and talks at The Photography Show . He also serves as a judge for the Red Bull Illume Photo Contest. An Olympus and Canon shooter, he has a wealth of knowledge on cameras of all makes – and a fondness for vintage lenses and instant cameras.

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The best mirrorless cameras for beginners in 2023

Want great options for mirrorless camera for beginners? We have some sweet options for you right here.

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Choosing a good camera for beginners is more complicated than simply selecting the latest and greatest model in the line. Entry-level cameras typically offer beginner-specific features that help new shooters learn the nuances of advanced photography. The best mirrorless camera for beginners, however, also leaves room to grow as your skills evolve. 

Rather than sending you out into the complicated mirrorless digital camera world alone, we’ve put together this simple guide to help you choose your tool. The secret to success: Identify the most important features that you’ll need and emphasize them. You don’t want to end up paying a lot of extra cash for features you’ll rarely use. That could be lens money.

• Best overall: Fujifilm XT-200

Best full-frame: Canon RP

Best for bloggers: sony a6400.

• Best small: Nikon Z 50

Best for image stabilization: Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

The best mirrorless cameras for beginners: reviews & recommendations, best overall : fujifilm xt-200.

Our expert’s pick for the best mirrorless camera for beginners overall is the Fujifilm X-T200. This DSLR camera embodies a classic SLR shape with an eye-level finder and a grip on the right-hand side. Inside, you’ll find Fujifilm’s renowned 24-megapixel APS-C sensor, which handles color differently than other digital sensors. That makes it uniquely capable of capturing pleasant-looking images with no editing required. It even emulates famous Fujifilm film stocks. The 3.5-inch vari-angle screen punches above its weight at this price and the camera gives you tactile controls with knobs and buttons that make for super-quick navigation once you get the hang of it. 

This affordable Canon mirrorless full-frame camera for beginners offers a very nice 26.2-megapixel resolution for just under $1,000 retail. It shoots 2160p video and employs Canon’s facial tracking focusing system. The body looks and feels a lot like a DSLR so it will be an easy transition if you’re making the switch. It will also work excellently with Canon’s huge back catalog of EF lenses if you get the simple adapter to go with it.

This isn’t the most recent addition to the Sony A6X00 line, but you can find it for a solid deal including a lens and it will give you lots of room to grow into it. The sensor employs Sony’s 4D focusing system, which is meticulous when it comes to keeping faces in focus, even when you’re moving around. The screen flips up to face you so it doesn’t stick awkwardly out to the side of the camera. Plus, it shoots beautiful 4K footage of your lovely mug.

Best small: Nikon Z50

This isn’t the smallest mirrorless camera on the market, but the Nikon Z50 is smart about the space it uses. The whole thing weighs less than 14 ounces, which is a pittance compared to some DSLRs. Despite its small size, it still offers a selection of tactile controls and a chunky handgrip to go with its 20.9-megapixel sensor and advanced AF system.

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a tiny little camera with some impressive specs. Its Micro Four Thirds sensor moves in five different directions to try and counteract the movement of your hands as you press the shutter—it’s the best mirrorless camera for beginners looking for image stabilization. It promises up to 4.5 stops of shake correction, which is up there with the best of them. Despite its small size, you also get a solid collection of tactile controls including a mode dial and control knobs.

Choosing the best mirrorless cameras for beginners

It can be hard to understand exactly what the phrase “mirrorless camera” means, so we’ll run through the basics here quickly. If you’re already schooled on the nuances of the DSLR vs. mirrorless camera debate , you can probably skip straight down to the recommendations. 

For the uninitiated, mirrorless cameras get their identity from something they lack: a mirror. DSLRs (and their film-based SLR predecessors) rely on mirrors inside the camera body to reflect light coming in through the lens up to the focusing sensor and through the optical viewfinder. DSLRs dominated the advanced digital camera market for years before advanced CMOS image sensor tech changed the game. 

Mirrorless cameras simply funnel light through the lens directly onto the imaging sensor. That sensor pumps out a live feed of what it sees through to an electronic viewfinder or the screen on the back of the camera. Attached lens cameras worked like this for years before interchangeable-lens mirrorless cameras came along. 

Why are mirrorless cameras desirable?

Without the mirror inside the body, mirrorless cameras can keep the lens much closer to the sensor, which typically reduces the overall size of the camera itself. 

Because mirrorless cameras rely on their main imaging sensor for focusing, they’re also less likely to need adjustments than DSLRs. That sensor-based focusing also allows the camera to perform more advanced focusing features like precise image tracking and facial recognition. 

Some beginners also prefer mirrorless cameras because the image they see in the viewfinder looks very close to what the final result will be. With a DSLR, you see a simple reflection, but the camera settings may leave you with a shot that’s blown out or too dark. Mirrorless cameras reduce that chance. In fact, they will allow you to see, in real-time, how changing your settings will affect your overall picture. That’s great for learning purposes.

What’s not so good about mirrorless cameras?

DSLR’s advantages over mirrorless cameras have waned over the years. Some shooters still prefer the zero-lag experience of looking through an optical viewfinder. 

DSLRs also typically natively accept older lenses. So, if you’re upgrading from a Canon EF or Nikon N system, your lenses will probably still work with a new DSLR. You’ll have to use an adapter if you want to put them onto a mirrorless camera

Don’t give up on features you’ll want later

It’s easy to get lost in camera spec sheets when you’re out there shopping. The best mirrorless camera for beginners, however, isn’t always the most advanced model on the block. Ideally, you’ll choose something that’s easy to navigate and won’t drown you in buttons, dials, and endless menu screens. Some advanced Canon cameras, for instance, have more than five menu screens dedicated just to changing focus settings. That’s great for a working pro who knows just what they want. But, for a beginner, it can get overwhelming quickly.

As you hone into your personal style, you’ll likely figure out exactly what camera you want when you upgrade. To get started, though, you want something with a well-rounded feature set that you can grow into without getting discouraged. 

If you aspire to professional work, it also can’t hurt to get something capable so you can use it as a backup body even after you’ve upgraded. Buying into a system can get really expensive so you’ll want to choose wisely at the start. 

Moving up to a full-frame mirrorless camera

When photographers talk about “full-frame” cameras, they’re typically referring to those that have a sensor the size of a single image shot on 35mm film. With a sensor that size, your lenses work exactly as you’d expect them to. When you use a smaller sensor, however, the smaller chip can only capture part of the image circle so your final image looks cropped. It can make it difficult to get truly wide-angle views or achieve the same kind of buttery blurry backgrounds when shooting on fast lenses. 

Many pros rely on full-frame mirrorless cameras but don’t let anyone tell you that they’re absolutely necessary. There are some truly wonderful and capable APS-C options out there (some of which are on this list). The best mirrorless camera for beginners depends more on features than pure imaging power.

For aspiring vloggers

If you’re shooting video on your own, there are a few things you should consider. First and foremost, you want something light and compact. If you’re going to be holding a camera at arm’s length with the full weight of a Gorillapod weighing you down, you don’t need a bulky camera adding to the load. 

You’ll also want to make sure that you have a solid screen. Look for a screen that flips forward, but maintains a sturdy connection to the body without sticking out too far. Moving screens are good. Screens that stick out and get cracked off in a subway door are not. Trust me. 

You’ll also, of course, want to make sure that the camera captures top-quality video. People these days don’t smash those link and subscribe buttons for blurry, grainy footage.

Looking for the best mirrorless camera for beginners with smaller hands?

DSLRs have big mirror boxes inside of their bodies taking a lot of space. Mirrorless cameras don’t need all of that. As a result, the bodies can be smaller. That’s not always the case. Large sensors, wide lens mounts, and lots of electronics can clutter up some mirrorless cameras until they bloat to the size of their DSLR pals.

You want to go small with your camera, but make sure it still includes the features you want and feels comfortable in your hand. If a camera is too small, your hand can actually cramp trying to hold onto it (trust me on this one, too). As you move up to higher-quality lenses, they also tend to increase in size and include more heavy glass. In that case, you want something sturdy to counterbalance the weight of the lens. It’s literally all about balance.

Keep it steady with image stabilization

You can’t change the laws of physics. And those laws say that too much camera shake will result in blurry images. Luckily, modern cameras have advanced tech inside that can prevent those ruined pictures. Some cameras rely on lenses with built-in vibration reduction. They work well, but those lenses typically demand higher prices than non-stabilized glass. 

Some cameras, however, offer internal image stabilization systems that actually require the sensor to move around inside the body. You’ll often hear these systems rated by a number of stops. Those measurements have a specific meaning, but they’re also meant to represent absolute best-case scenarios that don’t translate into the real world. Just know that a larger number is typically better there.

Q: Do professional photographers use mirrorless cameras?

This is an easy one: Yes! Mirrorless cameras have usurped DSLRs in pretty much every arena at this point. With advanced autofocus tracking, awesome image quality, and ever-growing lens options, the arguments against mirrorless are few and far between. Even pro sports photographers have started switching to mirrorless, which is a huge deal.

Q: What are the advantages and disadvantages of a mirrorless camera

If you like an optical viewfinder with zero lag, there’s still nothing quite like a DSLR. You’ll also find that you get much better battery life out of a DSLR since it’s not using quite so many screens.  When it comes to advantages, though, there are plenty. The autofocus tracking is far beyond what you’ll find in a DSLR and the real-time image previews in the viewfinder can be a great learning tool.

Q: Is Nikon or Canon better?

This question is decades old and it’s not very relevant anymore. If you’re jumping into mirrorless and you already have some Nikon or Canon lenses in your collection, just stick to your brand. But, you also shouldn’t limit yourself to those brands. Fujifilm and Sony have been killing the mirrorless game for years now and it would be criminal to ignore them.

A last word about the best mirrorless cameras for beginners 

Don’t be afraid to take the leap into mirrorless cameras. Now is the time to do it. The market is saturated with the best mirrorless camera for beginners that will help you learn and then let you shine when your skills are honed. Even if you can’t afford something new, there are some great older options out there on the secondary market. The Sony A7 II? Still awesome. Whatever you get, be sure to get out there and shoot until you’re sick of it. You probably won’t get sick of it, though.

Stan Horaczek is the senior gear editor of PopPhoto. He oversees a team of gear-obsessed writers and editors dedicated to finding and featuring the best and most useful photography equipment, from cameras and lenses to bags and accessories.

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