The Best Mirrorless Cameras in 2024

Our selection of the best mirrorless cameras is based on the user’s experience level: beginners seeking their first mirrorless camera; professional-grade cameras are not included because we are only covering expenses up to about $2,500.

THE BEST MIRRORLESS CAMERAS FOR BEGINNERS

Canon EOS R50

It offers stunning stills, 30p 4K video, natural color reproduction right out of the camera, and Canon’s fierce autofocusing system. The autofocus (AF) is what truly establishes this camera as the best for beginners. Canon has essentially incorporated an epic, albeit slightly reduced, version of its high-end professional bodies’ AF into the R50. Additionally, there’s a flip-out screen for vlogging, a product mode specifically for demos, excellent vlogging options, and beginner kit options.

Like any beginner’s camera, there are some limitations. It’s a little pricey for someone who is just starting, but this is because it’s not meant for absolute beginners. However, we believe that the features that the R50 offers outweigh the additional cost compared to the very basic Canon entry-level body, the EOS R100. The camera did overheat when shooting at maximum resolution, and it could use a couple more direct controls on the body. All these things notwithstanding, this is still an excellent entry-level camera that will serve you well for a long time!

Battery Life (CIPA)	440 shots
Sensor	APS-C
Megapixels	24.2
IBIS	No
Max shooting speed	15 fps
Max video resolution	4K @ 30p
Viewfinder	OLED EVF, 2.36 million dots
Screen	3.0-inch Vari-Angle, 1.62 million dots
Size/weight	4.57 x 3.36 x 2.70 inches; 13 ounces

BUY	AVOID
Good kit options	Heats up excessively in 4K footage
Excellent for vlogging	Very few native RF-S lenses
Beautiful 4K video	Scant direct controls
Remarkably good ISO performance	A bit costly for beginners
Excellent autofocus

Sony Alpha a7 II

The Sony a7 II is now a few years old; it was replaced by the Sony a7 III, which boasts better battery life and full-frame HDR 4K video, as well as the a7 IV, which, among other things, has a new 33MP sensor. However, compared to the more recent models, the a7 II is still a much better deal and a fantastic option for intermediate photographers looking to upgrade to their first full-frame camera with professional features.

The Sony a7 II features a wealth of customizable buttons and knobs for easy access to your favorite controls, in-body 5-axis image stabilization, and a small enough size to fit in most bags. The vivid, crisp images and comparatively minimal noise (graininess), even at high ISO light sensitivity settings, were other highlights. You’ll be able to send your photos in a matter of seconds to your computer or smartphone with the help of efficient wireless capability. However, if you can afford one, the A7 III will provide better autofocus and longer battery life.

Sensor	Full frame
Megapixels	24.3
IBIS	YES
Max shooting speed	5 fps
Max video resolution	Full HD @ 60p
Viewfinder	OLED EVF, 2.35 million dots
Screen	3.0-inch Tilting TFT, 1.22 million dots
Size/weight	5 x 3.87 x 2.37 inches, 19.6 ounces
Battery Life (CIP)	350 shots

BUYS	AVOID
Very compact for a full-frame camera	Slow writing to memory card
Bright, clear pictures	motion blur in action videos
Surprisingly small	lack of 4K video

Nikon Z f

The Nikon Z f should be at the top of your shortlist if you’re looking for an enthusiast retro body but prefer the advantages of a full frame over the APS-C Fujifilm X-T5.

The Zf’s design, which is reminiscent of vintage Nikon SLRs from the film era, is beautifully done by Nikon. But the ZF handles incredibly well thanks to its retro layout, so it’s not just about appearances. It’s also really well constructed.

Beautiful images are produced by the 24MP full-frame sensor, and even at slower shutter speeds, shots are kept sharp thanks to up to 8 stops of in-body stabilization. The Z-F features dual card slots for dual writing or a backup of images and videos, and it can record at up to 4K/60p with a crop or 4K/30p without. Additionally, this camera has PD charging to swiftly replenish its batteries.

sensor	full frame
Megapixel	24MP
IBIS	YES
Max shooting speed	30 fps
Max video resolution	4K @ 60p (crop)
viewfinder	OLED EVF, 3.69 million dots
screen	3.0-inch variable angle, 2.1 million dots
size/weight	5.7 x 4.1 x 2 inches; 22.9 ounces
battery life	430 shots

BUY	AVOID
Good image quality	No charger is included. The second card slot is Micro-SD
dual card slot	no joystick for focus control
PD Charging	Modest EVF
Handsome design	No auto-ISO on dial

ADVANCED DSLR AND MIRRORLESS CAMERAS: WHAT ARE THE DIFFERENCES?

size and weight: Since mirrorless cameras don’t have mirrors—as their name suggests—they are typically much lighter and smaller than DSLRs.

Viewfinders: The optical viewfinder on DSLR cameras allows you to see the scene as it actually is. An electronic viewfinder (EVF), a tiny screen that displays a live video feed of the scene, is used by mirrorless cameras. Keep in mind that some less expensive mirrorless cameras lack a viewfinder entirely, so your only option is to use the back screen, just like on a smartphone.

speed: When price is considered, mirrorless cameras are nearly always faster, with burst speeds greater than those of many DSLRs. Even faster shooting is possible with an electronic shutter, though the quality of the images is typically compromised.

Battery Life: DSLRs have an advantage here because they can typically operate for a lot longer because they don’t require power for an EVF or, occasionally, an LCD screen.

Choice: Only Canon, Nikon, and Pentax continue to produce DSLRs these days (and even then, not that often). Mirrorless cameras are also produced by Canon, Nikon, Sony, Panasonic, Olympus, and other companies.

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.

READ MORE The legendary premium compact is updated with the Fujifilm X100VI.

The Canon R5 Mark II, rumors say, will launch in April 2024.