Shopping for Used Mirrorless System Cameras

Used mirrorless cameras bridge the gap between DSLRs and compact point-and-shoot cameras, while also saving you money. Mirrorless systems only hit the photography market in 2004, with the first version from Epson, which was then followed by Leica's M8. Similar to DSLRs, mirrorless cameras have interchangeable lenses and larger sensors, but they're lighter and more compact. Mirrorless cameras have similar capabilities to DSLRs, and are also great for recording video.

What's a Mirrorless System Camera?

While DSLRs follow the traditional film SLR design philosophy of a mirror that directs light to the optical viewfinder, mirrorless cameras dispense with the mirror completely. This is why they are smaller than typical DSLRs.

Because the distance between the lens mount and the sensor is less, lenses for mirrorless systems are often smaller. Mirrorless cameras use contrast detection for focusing, whereas most DSLRs use phase detection. The mirrorless system is optimal for photographing moving objects, and it's capable of extremely accurate focus.

Key Features of Mirrorless Digital Cameras

With a mirrorless digital camera system, you can enjoy features similar to a DSLR:

• Sensors the same size as on micro four-thirds digital cameras or larger
• Compact and light camera body due to its simple design
• Lenses that are generally smaller than those used on typical DSLRs
• Ability to use interchangeable lenses
• Availability of adaptors to fit DSLR lenses
• 4K video capability
• Contrast detection focusing, for superior quality video recording
• High continuous shooting speeds
• Availability of full manual operation

Advantages of Used Mirrorless System Cameras

Purchasing used and refurbished equipment gets you high-quality equipment at lower prices. Whether you're buying used mirrorless cameras, used lighting, or other used film photography gear, you will save big even if your item was used very lightly.

Mirrorless systems are a good compromise between heavier DSLRs and the limited capabilities of compact point-and-shoot cameras and cell phone cameras. Mirrorless camera performance is top-notch, with many outperforming their DSLR counterparts.

Viewfinders

Mirrorless cameras usually do not have optical viewfinders. Instead, they use LCD screens to frame photos. An exception to this rule is the rangefinder camera, which has a separate optical viewfinder. To overcome the difficulty of seeing the LCD screen in a bright light, some mirrorless cameras also have digital viewfinders.

Buying used gear from B&H guarantees you savings without sacrificing quality. All used items are thoroughly reviewed and given a rating between 1-10. Shop confidently and keep shooting!