Are you looking to upgrade from an older, bulkier DSLR? Or maybe you’re just getting started in photography and want to know which new mirrorless camera experts most recommend? Good news, we searched the web sifting through reviews to bring you the best mirrorless cameras that most appeared on the pros’ lists, and we’ve compiled them here for you.
Mirrorless cameras are here to stay. Though there are still excellent DSLRs out there, many pros have switched to mirrorless systems. A major reason is because mirrorless bodies tend to be lighter than DSLRs. And if you’re traveling with your camera or lugging around camera gear all day, weight matters. With less moving mechanical parts inside, mirrorless systems are also quieter than DSLRs. But what about lens selection?
When mirrorless cameras first popped up on the scene, there weren’t enough lenses available for them to convert the masses from DSLRs to the new systems. That’s no longer an issue as big brands now have full lines of lenses for mirrorless bodies. Some brands even offer adaptors to use DSLR lenses on mirrorless bodies, which could save you quite a bit of money if you already own DSLR lenses.
Mirrorless cameras are reported to take extremely sharp images, possibly sharper than that of DSLRs. But remember that the photographer, lens, and other factors all play into image quality. Now, about that list.
Study Finds checked eight expert reviews to see which five mirrorless cameras most frequently appeared on the pros’ lists, but we also want to know which camera is on your list. Comment below to share with us which camera you prefer!
The List: Top 5 Mirrorless Cameras, According to Expert Reviews
1. Sony a7 IV
Experts say this camera is sure to get the job done for amateurs and pros alike. With a 33-megapixel sensor, it’ll capture in great detail the scenes you shoot. Note that it is a full-frame sensor, which will allow you to work in less-than-ideal lighting situations should the need arise.
RTINGS.com writes it’s “the best full-frame mirrorless camera we’ve tested.” They note that part of the reason for its high ranking is because in addition to it taking quality stills, it also has excellent video recording capabilities. And when it comes to video, this camera gives you 4K 60p in 10-bit with no recording time limit.
Tech Radar writes, “we found the A7 IV to have class-leading autofocus skills,” which is of course important if you’re photographing moving objects. And if you are taking action shots, this camera offers up to 10 frames per second shooting.
Lastly, this is also a good option for vloggers with its side-opening screen that articulates. This means it can be spun to face forward.
2. Fujifilm X-T4
Wired lists this camera as their choice for ‘Best on a Budget’ labeling it “one of the best values in the camera market.” This camera offers 26-megapixels, and though it does not have a full-frame sensor it is well known for producing quality images while also pumping out 4K video.
For those worried about camera shake when taking handheld shots, this model does have in-body image stabilization. B&H Photo writes that the “built-in 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization helps to minimize the appearance of camera shake by up to 6.5 stops.”
Much like the Sony above, this does have a vari-angle screen that articulates, making this another option for vloggers.
If you are into taking action shots, this Fuji will give you 15 frames per second shooting. And of its autofocus capabilities Wired mentions its “significant autofocus improvements compared to its predecessor.”
3. Canon EOS R6
This is a 20-megapixel full-frame mirrorless camera that offers 4K video. Tom’s guide says of this camera: “the R6 excels when it comes to autofocus.” They tested it on moving pets and found it to be “unerringly accurate.”
There is mention across reviews of sacrificed image quality when compared with cameras containing higher megapixel counts, so that may be something to keep in mind when choosing your camera.
According to space.com this camera is built for shooting the night sky. They write that its “great low-light autofocus and an impressive ISO range make this ideal for astrophotography.”
And that ISO range? It’s 100-102400 and expandable to 204800. Though in the higher ranges you should expect grainy images.
4. Nikon Z9
This is Nikon’s flagship mirrorless camera, meaning it is professional-grade and has the price tag to prove it. This camera will run you right around $5500 for the body – no lens included – and is by far the priciest on this list.
If you want megapixels, you’ll get them here. This camera offers 45.7-megapixels, but keep in mind that with so many MPs the files sizes will be rather large. In addition to all those megapixels, it offers a tilting screen, 120 frames per second shooting, and 8K video.
Gear Patrol lists this as their ‘Best Professional Mirrorless Camera.’ They write, “simply put, the Z9 is the camera that most convincingly argues for the death of the DSLR. It does everything, and it does it better (and for a few hundred dollars less).” So, if you’re looking to get out of a DSLR and into a mirrorless, this may be the place to look, assuming you want to spend the cash.
Some cameras produce epic stills but lack when it comes to video quality. Worry not, because Digital Camera World writes, “it’s an absolute beast of a camera when it comes to video.” They do mention, however, that it has a recording time limit of two hours.
5. Panasonic Lumix DC-S5
This Panasonic is a 24.2-megapixel full-frame mirrorless camera. It is touted as being equally capable of producing both quality stills and video, with the video being 4K at 60fps.
PC Mag lists this as their ‘Best Entry-level Full-frame.’ Though they consider it entry level, they say that it offers more than “bare-bones starter models.” They mention that it “even includes a 96MP multi-shot mode.”
If you’re looking to shoot action, this may not be the choice for you with its 7 frames per second shooting capabilities. But Tech Radar writes that “it does have a 6K photo mode to compensate, which lets you extract 18MP stills from a video sequence.”
How about that screen on the back? You guessed it, side-opening and fully articulating. It can also be used for live shooting, playback, and as a navigation menu.
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Note: This article was not paid for nor sponsored. StudyFinds is not connected to nor partnered with any of the brands mentioned and receives no compensation for its recommendations.
I still use my old 6D and a dozen L lenses…buying new cameras does not justify the return on investment…they are digital junks….no client cares about 61MP..oh my iphone is 40MP…nicee..hahahah..buy strobes instead…
Ball up on the alpha 7r v ho.
I recently purchased the R6 myself. A tremendous camera indeed. The 20 megapixel count isn’t noticeable at all in terms of lower quality images, the auto focus is indeed widely accurate, and it’s interface is a charm. Very happy with it!
I’m sorry, but are these the opinions of “photography experts” or paid “gear shills”, which “Study Finds” then regurgitates into more click-baitey content? I see no original conclusions here.
“Mirrorless cameras are reported to take extremely sharp images, possibly sharper than that of DSLRs” this proves the opinion piece useless.
Joe your probably close to the mark on some of these cams. These companies do make other models that can produce quality pics yourreaders might want to considerthem. I been at this 📸 game over 63 years. I’ve seen it all and just about owned it all, however my opinion is just that, an opinion. I have very capable mirrorless Nikons Z 7 II and a fc but also retained two wonderful DLSRs, d750 and d500 which I won’t part with. My SLRs and DLSRs have become an extention of my hand and I work my camera adjustments quickly. Bottom line here is I live in both worlds and it’s ok. Besides there is a mystic about the color reproduction and overall look between DSLRs vs Mirrorless. Yes I’ll say Mirrorless wins but the pics look too sterile. Maybe I just have to get used to it. The amount of processing going on in Mirrorless cams is far greater than what goes on in DLSRs. One last thing you should always remember, ” the photographer makes the photograph not the camera. Look at the famous post WWII photograph of the Sailor bending over the girl in a kiss embrace. That was taken by a press camera over 75 years ago. Nobody remembers the camera but they sure remember the photograph.
I’ve been shooter on and off since I received my first camera for christmas when I was 15, I’m now 78. equipment sure has come a very long way in between those years. I am currently shooting with the panasonic S5.
I have to say I totally concur with your choices. competion between manufacturers is severe, we are guaranteed a great selection of outstanding cameras thats for sure. …. thx for your efforts in putting together this article. ……. zen billings, canada
The Fuji X-T4 has been replaced by the X-T5 and the X-H2. Neither of those cameras is mentioned in this list.