Mirrorless cameras have been on the market for a decade, but they have really begun to make waves in the past few years. Most serious photographers would have certainly been shooting with a DSLR camera just a few years ago, but now many have traded in their DSLRs for the smaller and lighter form factors that mirrorless cameras provide. Not only are mirrorless cameras usually lighter and smaller than their DSLR counterparts, but they’re quieter, as well. With no mirror to slap up and down, street photographers, as well as wedding and theater photographers can now shoot virtually unnoticed.
Choosing a mirrorless camera can be a daunting task with lots of options, from sensor size, to video capabilities, to lens systems, and more. We will cover them all, and give you the information you need. Buying your new camera should be an exciting experience, so let this guide help you make an informed decision.
Lens Systems
What differentiates mirrorless cameras from other compact cameras is the fact that they have interchangeable lenses. This makes a world of difference, and if you’ve never had an interchangeable-lens camera, you will be quite surprised by how it will change your photography.
Compact point-and-shoot cameras have a built-in lens that typically gives you an optical zoom with a variable aperture and small sensor. What this means is that while you might have the ability to shoot both wide and telephoto zoom lengths, you don’t have as much control over selective focus or shallow-depth-of-field techniques. Selective focus, often accentuated by pronounced bokeh, is one of the first things that people notice about photos taken with larger sensor, interchangeable-lens cameras, because now you have the option to shoot with a long zoom lens with an f/2.8 aperture, or a prime portrait lens with an f/1.4 aperture.
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Sample shots were taken with a GH4 and SLR Magic HyperPrime CINE 25mm T0.95 lens.
A good thing about mirrorless cameras is that because there is no mirror inside the camera in front of the sensor, their design allows for a very short focal flange distance, or the distance between the lens mount and the plane of the sensor. Because of this short distance, lenses that have a large focal flange length can be used on mirrorless cameras when you have a compatible adapter. This means that, in addition to a wide selection of mirrorless-dedicated lenses, most SLR lenses can also fit onto your mirrorless camera as well. This is important to know if you have a bunch of old lenses lying around or are making the switch from a DSLR to mirrorless; chances are there are adapters to fit your lenses to your new camera. Of course, you should always check compatibility before making any purchases.
While using older “legacy” lenses on a mirrorless camera is a great benefit, every pro has a con and, in most cases, the downside in this situation is that the adapters usually do not allow for autofocus capabilities, and sometimes do not transfer any electronic signals at all, so aperture must also be set manually. This can be a drawback for some photographers, but for videographers who normally change aperture and focus manually, this isn’t a drawback at all.
Maybe you don’t have any lenses from other cameras, or you want to sell them all and forget about adapters. In that case, there is certainly no shortage of great lenses designed specifically for mirrorless cameras. Due to increasing attention to mirrorless systems, manufacturers have invested a great deal into providing a wide variety of lenses, from fast prime lenses to wide-to-tele zoom lenses. Whatever you are looking for in a lens, chances are you can find it in a mirrorless line.
Sensor Size
Different mirrorless cameras come with various-sized sensors, and this is where things can get a little confusing. To make things simple, think of a full-frame DSLR camera as having the largest sized sensor, and a point-and-shoot as the smallest sized sensor. Most mirrorless cameras fall somewhere in the middle, packing an APS-C sensor, which is common in consumer DSLR cameras, or a Micro Four Thirds sensor, which falls between an APS-C sensor and a point-and-shoot. While they are the minority, there are now a few cameras that do have a full-frame sensor, and there will probably be more to come in the future.
Micro Four Thirds cameras feature a 17.3 x 13mm sensor, and are most commonly made by Panasonic and Olympus. Both manufacturers use the same mount, as part of the Micro Four Thirds standard, so lenses are interchangeable between brands. Olympus usually utilizes in-camera stabilization, while Panasonic tends to have their stabilization in the lenses. However, Panasonic has recently begun to utilize in-body image stabilization in some models, as well.
A little bit smaller than the Micro Four Thirds sensors are the Nikon 1 (CX format) and Pentax Q series cameras, which use sensors closer to the size of point-and-shoot cameras—1" for the Nikon 1, 1/1.7" or 1/2.3" for Pentax Q—allowing these lines to be much more compact than other mirrorless cameras.
A significant reason that some people like mirrorless cameras is that they are smaller and lighter than DSLRs, and a lot of that has to do with the smaller sensor size. While a smaller and lighter camera is great for some, it, too, has a drawback. Generally speaking, larger sensors perform better in lower light, and produce less image noise in photos taken with higher ISO sensitivities. If low-light photography is important to you, you might want to consider one of the full-frame mirrorless cameras, or at least one with an APS-C sized sensor. If you are more concerned with a smaller camera size, and don’t require the best in low-light performance, a Micro Four Thirds camera might be a good fit for you. This is not to say that cameras with smaller sensors are not suitable for low-light shooting, rather, it is one of the main benefits of a larger sensor size.
Sample shots were taken with a GH4 and SLR Magic HyperPrime CINE 25mm T0.95 lens.
Viewfinders
Viewfinders are another thing to take into consideration, particularly if you’re switching from a DSLR or other type of camera that has an optical TTL (through-the-lens) viewfinder. A TTL viewfinder means that what you are seeing is exactly (or very close to) what the lens is seeing. Since, by design, there is no mirror to direct the view of the lens to the viewfinder, many mirrorless cameras utilize an electronic viewfinder, or EVF.
There are, of course, benefits and disadvantages to the EVF, just as there are for an optical viewfinder. One thing that can be distracting is that touch of lag time between the moment that something is actually moving and the time that you see it in the EVF. As technology improves, this lag time is becoming shorter and shorter and, in some cameras, is already imperceptible.
Another disadvantage is that an EVF eats away at your battery power, just as using your LCD screen would. This is minimal, and usually not a huge concern, but just another thing to take into consideration.
As for advantages, there are quite a few, the first of which is focus peaking, which has become a desirable asset when comparing cameras for video or manual-focus uses. Focus peaking is a real-time focusing aid that highlights edges of contrast within the frame with a colored line, which helps to avail a more objective system of determining critical sharpness when focusing manually.
Focus Peaking
The other main advantage an EVF has is its ability to give an accurate depiction of any exposure, color balance, or other camera-setting adjustments prior to shooting. Whereas an OVF simply displays the subject as it is, an EVF gives you a closer representation of the final image.
Autofocus
DSLR cameras use what is called phase detection to focus on a subject, while mirrorless cameras use contrast detection. Phase detection takes advantage of the mirror in a DSLR camera to divide the incoming light into pairs of images, compares them, and then quickly focuses the lens on the subject.
Mirrorless cameras, on the other hand, use contrast detection to measure the contrast between pixels on the sensor until it detects enough contrast to find that the image is in focus. The downside of this focusing method is that it is slower, and more difficult to use in low light. It is also less effective when trying to focus on moving objects.
The good news for mirrorless shooters is that many newer cameras are now using a hybrid focusing method that combines phase- and contrast-detection methods. This is another consideration to weigh before choosing your camera. If fast autofocus, especially in low light, is important to you, you should consider a camera with a hybrid autofocus system.
Video
Video recording is one area where mirrorless cameras and DSLR cameras are pretty much neck and neck, when it comes to quality. Of course, mirrorless cameras are going to offer video shooters more flexibility with lenses than DSLR cameras, but both systems offer cameras that can shoot full HD, and some cameras can also now shoot 4K.
Get the most out of 4K video recording by connecting your mirrorless camera to a 4K recorder/monitor.
"If you’re making the move up from point-and-shoot cameras to a mirrorless, then the video quality is going to be leaps and bounds better than what you’re used to."
What mirrorless cameras improve upon, compared to many DSLRs, is the way they shoot, not necessarily what they can shoot. Because mirrorless cameras focus with continuous contrast-detection, you can more easily focus, and maintain focus, on moving subjects in your frame. DSLRs also utilize contrast-detection focusing when recording movies, or when working in live view, but since it is the inherent technology within a mirrorless camera, it is often more refined and responsive.
If you’re making the move up from point-and-shoot cameras to a mirrorless, then the video quality is going to be leaps and bounds better than what you’re used to. For one thing, you will be able to control the depth of field via the aperture, and also manually focus your shot. This gives you greater creative control, not to mention much higher-quality files.
The smaller size of mirrorless cameras means that the camera’s light weight allows for longer shooting with less fatigue than shooting video handheld with a DSLR camera.
If you are a serious videographer and want professional video capabilities, you might consider a mirrorless camera that records video in a high-quality format, such as AVCHD or XAVC S, and one with which you can use external microphones, headphones, video monitors, and recorders.
Wireless Functionality
The wireless capabilities that have been included in many of the mirrorless cameras on the market are truly incredible. Most cameras with Wi-Fi also have a partner app for either iOS or Android that allow you to control the camera from a smartphone or tablet.
NFC allows cameras to “bump” each other, or another smart device, to share photos.
These apps range from basic live view and shutter control, to full control over shutter speed, aperture, ISO, and other settings that you would normally need to adjust on the camera.
Some cameras enable you to transfer images directly to a smart device from your camera, or even right to your favorite social media sites. Another great Wi-Fi function is Near Field Communication, or NFC, which allows cameras to tap-to-connect with one another or a smart device, to share photos. This is especially helpful when you’re with friends and you want to share photos without having to remember to email them later.
Choosing Your Mirrorless Camera
By now you should be able to make an informed decision about buying your next camera. Keep in mind the main points we discussed. If image size and quality, especially in low light, is important to you, choose a camera with either an APS-C or full-frame sensor. However, if you’re looking for a compact camera that offers more control and options than a point-and-shoot, choose one of the cameras with a smaller sensor.
Most mirrorless cameras will fall into one of three categories: consumer, prosumer, and professional. This doesn’t mean that a professional camera will guarantee professional-looking photos, rather, that it is built with the capabilities that professionals need and want.
Consumer
Entry-level consumer mirrorless cameras are a great starting point for someone looking to make a move from point-and-shoot cameras to something with a little more flexibility and control. Often, entry-level mirrorless cameras are a replacement for consumers who are using an entry-level DSLR and like the interchangeable-lens feature, but want something that is lighter and smaller. These cameras usually offer an LCD to compose your photos instead of an electronic viewfinder. Consumer-level mirrorless cameras typically have a smaller sensor, allowing for a smaller and lighter body size, while sacrificing a little bit of image quality.
Prosumer
In between consumer and pro cameras are “prosumer” cameras. In the world of mirrorless cameras, prosumer-level cameras will probably be most comfortable for photographers making the move from a DSLR to a mirrorless model. Prosumer cameras have a slightly smaller body size than professional-level cameras, while offering more control and better image quality than consumer cameras.
Another thing that makes prosumer mirrorless cameras appealing is that many of them have an electronic viewfinder, as well as the LCD screen on the back of the camera. This makes the transition to mirrorless much easier if you are accustomed to looking through an optical viewfinder. With both an EVF and an LCD screen, problems with viewing your composition in bright light are minimized.
Professional-Level Cameras
If the highest-quality video and imagery is what you seek from a mirrorless camera, a professional-level camera will deliver what you need. These cameras straddle all formats, including Micro Four Thirds, APS-C, and full-frame and also tend to feature larger, more durable bodies that are often weather sealed. Additionally, they are characterized by faster processors, which aid autofocus performance and buffering when shooting large files or burst sequences. These cameras are also ideal for shooting professional videos, thanks to their support for external monitors, headphones, and microphones, as well as external video recorders.
These are the cameras that you will want to consider if you are an advanced hobbyist or professional who is used to the feel and performance of a professional DSLR camera. They offer the most creative control through their inclusion of fully manual adjustment capabilities and support for interface customization. Additionally, professional-grade cameras are usually the preferred choice when working in adverse situations, such as extreme low lighting or fast-action situations, due to their expanded imaging capabilities, sensitivity, and refined focusing performance.
After you choose your preferred sensor size or system type, think about what kind of lenses you might already own, or what types of lenses exist for the various cameras you are considering. Some manufacturers have a wider line of lenses for their mirrorless cameras than others, and this might be important to you if you like options.
Key Features to Consider:
Sensor size
Form factor
Lens mount
Viewfinder
Video capabilities
Wi-Fi
Hot shoe
Battery grip
Once you have narrowed down the larger, important aspects of choosing your camera, take a look at what features are important to you. Do you need HD or 4K video? Maybe you are a social-media guru and really like the ability to share photos online directly from your camera.
Another consideration is the accessories that are available for the various cameras. If you use an external flash, you’re going to want to make sure compatible flashes are available, and that the camera has a hot shoe to which one can be attached. Other accessories that might be important are battery grips, cases, remote controls, and apps―just to name a few.
You should now be prepared to choose the mirrorless camera that best suits your needs. Of course, if you have any questions, feel free to stop by the B&H SuperStore in New York, speak with a sales professional on the telephone at 1-800-606-6969 or contact us online for a Live Chat.
262 Comments
This article is so helpful, but looks like it is 5 years old. Would really appreciate an updated review of options! Also, I find it odd that there is little to no mention of megapixels. I'm looking for more than my current 24. Thanks!
I currently use a Canon 6D with 70-300mm DO lens. I love the picture quality but am thinking of a smaller sensor mirrorless to get extra reach for wildlife photography. I hike and take photos. Which camera would you advise please? Every shop I speak to suggests something different.
In a mirrorless camera with a smaller sensor that would be effective for shooting wildlife, the Canon EOS M6 Mark II Mirrorless Digital Camera with 15-45mm Lens and EVF-DC2 Viewfinder (Black), B&H# CAEM621545B is something to consider. You can easily adapt your current EF lenses with the Canon EF-M Lens Adapter Kit for Canon EF / EF-S Lenses, B&H # CALA.
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I really appreciated this article, even though it is now 2 (?) years old, as I am looking to downsize my camera equipment. My latest DSLR is the Canon 70D with the Tamron 16-300 f3.5-6.3 which I have used for nature travel. I also have the Canon Macro 100 EF 100mm 1:2.8 USM that I have rarely used, and have my original Canon t5i with 2 kit lenses. I loved the 70D with Tamron for travel in both Antarctica and southern Africa, but except on such trips find the size and weight unacceptable and end up using my iPhone as camera, which has the advantage of marking where the photo was taken, but not a lot else. I sometimes do birding trips, but the combo of a DSLR and binoculars to carry is daunting. Having mostly owned Canon cameras, including a number of compacts, I did not realize until fairly recently that other brands of DSLRs have inbody stabilization, thus reducing the cost and weight of the lenses you can use. This has left me disenchanted with my brand choice. I have tried a Canon bridge, the SX 50 HS but found the zoom images too soft. Some years ago I bought one of the early Sony compacts and found its menu so alien that I barely used it, though perhaps now they are improved. I do a fair amount of travel now and would like to change over to a mirrorless camera, not only for size and weight reduction but also the lack of shutter noise. I can see some travel might have me wanting an adapter to be able to use the Tamron lens, but otherwise would want a smaller lens for most trips and also to capture pets and grandchildren. I've read that some mirrorless cameras might have a hybrid stabilization that detects in lens stabilizers etc, but have not found what they might be, or if they are in my price range. Can you suggest a mirrorless than would work for my nature travel but could also be good for hikes and every day. I plan a trip to the Galapagos in May of 2020, but have been told that you are able to be so close to the wildlife that no zoom lens is really needed, so at least initially I would not need a zoom lens. Your suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
If you are looking for a mirrorless digital camera that has built-in image stabilization and which would be good options for your stated usage needs, I would recommend the Panasonic Lumix DC-G95 Mirrorless Digital Camera with 12-60mm Lens, B&H # PADCG95MK, as a good option for your usage needs. If you need a more economical (and smaller/lighter) option that would also work for your usage needs, the Panasonic Lumix DC-GX9 Mirrorless Micro Four Thirds Digital Camera with 12-60mm Lens and Accessories Kit (Black), B&H # PADCGX9MKAK, would be a good option for your usage needs. While I do like Sony cameras, if you are looking for an option with slightly easier-to-navigate menu systems, the Panasonic cameras should work for your usage needs. Canon does have mirrorless cameras that have menu systems similar to the ones in the camera you own, their cameras do not have built-in image stabilization, and their EOR R-series cameras will use lenses similar in size/weight to the lenses you currently own, whereas the Micro Four Thirds lenses of a similar focal length/angle of view range will be smaller and lighter for your usage needs.
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This article was very interesting as I am just looking to get into the mirrorless camera market. I have been a long time DSLR user....years ago with Minolta and more recently Nikon. However, with a year long family trip around the world beginning soon I am in the market for a new camera and was suggested to go mirrorless instead of another DSLR! Where I live there are no stores stocking these cameras to try so i am sort of flying blind!! I have been considering a Sony a6500 with a Sony FE 24-240 F3.5-F6.3 lens. I photograph mostly landscape/scenery, people, my kids!! I am not sure if this is the right camera to go with and would appreciate your opinion!! Also would appreciate lens suggestions....if I was only going to take, say, 2 lenses.....would this be a good one plus maybe a 35mm or 50mm!? I am so confused!! Appreciate any feedback you can share!!
Julie - I owned an A6000 + 18-200 SLE lens that was amazing and lightweight. I also have an A7R2 with the 24-240 FE lens ($1000), since it's a full-frame camera and I love to carry just one lens (but the whole package is a little heavy). So, knowing that the A6500 ($1100) is an APS-C format (1.5x for the lens), why not consider a lighter lens made for APS-C bodies like the 18-200 SLE ($850), 18-105 ($550) or 18-135 ($500), which you'd multiply the lens size by 1.5 to get its 35mm equivalent. All of these products are made by Sony and made to last, so if you outgrow the body or lens, you can sell it on eBay or trade in with B&H, and upgrade.
Very helpful. I'm just starting to look into switching to a mirrorless camera and don't even know where to begin. I have been using a Canon 7D for years but I don't like how noisy the images are (my 20D was much better!) and it gets so heavy when traveling and carrying it (with a long zoom fitted) around all day. I do travel and fine art photography and need a camera with as little noise as possible, producing images that can be printed HUGE, and is smaller and lighter than the 7D. And that I can ideally use my Canon lenses with as well (I know I'll need an adapter, but that's fine when not traveling). Which mirrorless camera would you recommend based on this?
If you are looking for a mirrorless camera that would work for your usage needs, I would recommend either the Sony Alpha a6300 Mirrorless Digital Camera with 16-50mm Lens (Black), B&H # SOA6300BK, or the Canon EOS M6 Mirrorless Digital Camera with 15-45mm Lens (Black), B&H # CAEM61545B. Both would be good camera choices with much better image quality compared to either the Canon EOS 20D or the Canon EOS 7D (which I still own and love). Both cameras listed above have higher color depth to record more colors, has more dynamic range for more highlight and shadow detail, and have better low-light performance. Neither will natively accept the Canon EF or EF-S lenses, but you may still use your current lenses with the purchase of a lens adapter. I would recommend either the Metabones Canon EF/EF-S Lens to Sony E Mount T Smart Adapter (Fifth Generation), B&H # MEMBEFEBT5, or the Vello Canon EF/EF-S Lens to Sony E-Mount Camera Auto Lens Adapter, B&H # VELAESECEF, for use with the Sony a6300 Alpha Mirrorless Digital Camera. The Canon EF-M Lens Adapter Kit for Canon EF / EF-S Lenses, B&H # CALA, would be the correct adapter for use with the Canon EOS M6 Mirrorless Digital Camera. All of the adapters listed above would offer full automatic exposure, autofocus, and image stabilization if those features are offered by and available in the lens.
HI that's a great article although time moves on and there are more options several yrs later. I am doing a fair amount of travel and have been using a canon 70d with a Tamron 16-300 lens. Everytime I groan about the weight of that outfit I look back and swear I do not want to have something with out the wide range that I have in that lense. The camera has an intermittent problem with not not focusing when you press the shutter but it comes alive several presses later. Not great for getting spur of the moment candids. I think it may be not a good investment to rehab the camera given some of the alternatives. this fall I am going back to Africa , where I first used my Tamron 150-600 for wildlife and I really want something long there. I carried a small panasonic zs40 and by the end of the trip I has a few problems so I sent it in for cleaning and Panasonic voided my warranty claiming that I abused the camera because it was so dirty. My dealer said that t happens a lot when a lens goes in and out everytime it turns off. So I am thinking something weather sealed would be good. So short term I need something for africa but I think this may be the last time I will go there. More long term I would like to explore a mirrorless body. I have enough invested in glass that I would prefer to stay with canon if the canon adaptor really does allow use of canon glass with no decrease in focus. I read some reviews about the new M50 but think it may not be the body for me and although it has 4K video it is limited enough that I do not see that as an improvement. So I guess I would be looking at the M5. Are there adapters available for other bodies that might allow me to use this glass with them? Canon does not seem to be turning out lenses that will totally meet my needs and if I could get away with my glass on another body then I might switch especially if the other company was making more lenses that I might like. I am considering getting a Sony RX10iv for Africa and then considering selling it. It would have a long reach and the weather sealing that I think I need. The RX10 is as heavy as my 70d with that Tamron I am lugging around. So it wold not be an improvement in the short run, but it could get me thru Africa and then deal with the mirrorless options. I' would really love to hear your thoughts on my situation.
From your stated usage needs and the need for a smaller camera, the Canon EOS M5 Mirrorless Digital Camera (Body Only), B&H # CAEM5B, does sound like it would fit your usage needs. The Canon EOS 70D you owned weighs 1.66 lbs, while the Canon EOS M5 Mirrorless Digital Camera weighs 15.1 ounces, which is about 40% lighter than your current camera. The camera is physically smaller and lighter compared to your current camera, so this should assist you with some of your issues regarding size and weight of your equipment.
If you want to use lenses you currently use on your Canon EOS 70D on the smaller Canon EF-M lens mount used on the Canon EOS M5 Mirrorless Digital Camera, then the Canon EF-M Lens Adapter Kit for Canon EF / EF-S Lenses, B&H # CALA, would be the correct lens adapter for your needs. If you are looking for an alternative camera option, one of my favorite mirrorless digital cameras is the Sony Alpha a6500 Mirrorless Digital Camera (Body Only), B&H # SOA6500B. The Sony a6500 weighs 15.9 ounces, just slightly heavier than the Canon EOS M5, but not by much.
There are lens adapters for the Sony E-mount lens mount that will also allow you to retain autofocus, automatic exposure, and image stabilization capabilities when using a Canon EF/EF-S lens on the Sony E-mount camera. The Metabones Canon EF/EF-S Lens to Sony E Mount T Smart Adapter (Fifth Generation), B&H # MEMBEFEBT5, would be the best option, while the Vello Canon EF/EF-S Lens to Sony E-Mount Camera Auto Lens Adapter, B&H # VELAESECEF, would be a more economical option for your usage needs. All aforementioned items are listed on the links included below. In terms of weather-sealing, the Sony a6500 would be a weather-sealed camera, while the Canon EOS M5 would not be weather-sealed.
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Hello, I feel quite baffled about what camera I want! I used to have (an very long time ago) a Canon F1n and since it was stolen, I had then replaced it with a modern EOS of its time but it killed photography for me as it was too much plastic and too automatic, had too many functions etc... So now that I want to re start photography, it's a nightmare when I look at all these cameras that seem to sing and dance, clap and when will they do one that you can stick a chicken into it, to cook it in 5 minsutes? Very different world now and I'm reading loads about the diffirent types, their functions etc.
What I know I want is weaher sealing as live near the alps in France, so this means something sturdy that isn't going to break into 50 pieces the instent it touches a marshmello tree (plenty of these where I live) like an iphone, something that will work in the cold and hot too, take sports shots without yawning, landscapes and portraits and macro. I'd like the possibility to inlarge the photos once printed too. I've learned that I may need an APS C sensor or more? My budget is no more then 2000euros so this is already looking difficult!!
I have to assume that if the camera body is weather sealed, then the lens is too? Is the weather sealing worth the effort anyway?
What is the bump on the top for? In my day it was for the prism but now it seems to hold a flash that lights up all of one foot in front? And what about those who don't have a built in flash like the Fujifilm xt2...is the bump like the bump on the bonnet of cheap cheat cars or to fit extra luggage into it? I've looked at the camera I mentioned above, thus the xt20 which seems very similar but without the weather sealing and flash....but there's a few others too like the Olympus omd em10ii which I don't like but scores well, also the sony alpha a 711 full frame but I'm just so confused!! Please help me :-)
Great article BTW but it does leave me with some questions. I have been for the past 10yrs a landscape and portrait photographer using Canon gear 7D, lenses 50mm f/1.4, 24-105mm f/4 L IS, 70-200 F/2.8 L IS plus flash equipment, tripods, etc. The weight of this gear discourages me to carry them everywhere I go however being that mirrorless seems to be the future I don’t know if I should sell all my gear or hold on to it and just add a mirrorless body. Based on your experience and expertise, what would you recommend I do and which mirrorless cameras do you recommend I look into?
Hello,
Is there anything on the market that compares to the Leica SL for less money? That camera seems like all I'd ever need. I'm not a pro, but a serious photographer. In DSLR I've shot a Canon EOS 60D and for when I need light weight, a Leica X Vario
Thanks
Tom
Hi Tom -
Many serious, pro photographers keep one of these in one of their pockets:
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1 Full Frame Compact Digital Camera is the world's first fixed-lens digital camera with a full-frame sensor. This large 35mm Exmor CMOS sensor enables DSLR-quality imaging in a point-and-shoot form factor (4.5 x 2.6 x 2.8" / 11.4 x 6.6 x 7.1 cm). In addition to 24MP JPEG or RAW still images, the RX1 will also shoot Full HD 1080p video at 24 or 60fps. The 35mm f/2.0 Carl Zeiss Sonnar T* lens features a wide maximum aperture of f/2.0 with 9 iris blades, for reliable low-light performance and shallow depth of field with attractive bokeh (background blur). The multi-layered T* coating minimizes ghosting and flare caused by light reflection.
And if you must have interchangeable lenses, there is the:
With a world's first full-frame 42.4-megapixel Exmor R back-illuminated structure CMOS sensor, the Alpha a7R II Mirrorless Digital Camera from Sony is prepared to take mirrorless imaging to another level. This sensor design both improves low-light operation and speeds up data throughout, enabling fast high-resolution stills and UHD 4K video recording. Working with the BIONZ X image processor, these images can be produced at sensitivities up to ISO 102,400 and at a continuous 5 fps shooting rate. Five-axis SteadyShot INSIDE image stabilization has also been implemented, compensating for vertical, horizontal, pitch, yaw, and roll movements.
Hi Mark,
I've been looking at the Sony a7R II. Question: Does the adaptor for my Canon lenses allow for auto focus, etc. or do I lose that? Will I be buying a whole new stable of lenses? Thanks for your time.
Tom
Hi Mark,
I've been looking at the Sony a7R II. Question: Does the adaptor for my Canon lenses allow for auto focus, etc. or do I lose that? Will I be buying a whole new stable of lenses? Thanks for your time.
Tom
Hi Tom -
Drop us an e-mail describing the brand and model of your adapter and the Canon lenses you are planning on using:
[email protected]
Mark,
I sent the lens information and the adaptor to the e-mail address you listed, but I've never gotten a response. Can you please let me know?
Thanks
Tom
Great article.....although still a bit confused. Have been taking a photo class, and realized that the weight of my Canon 7d has been holding me back from doing a lot of shooting. Just so heavy to be carrying around. Have discussed mirrorless cameras in class and feel that that's my upgrade at this point. Am leaning toward the Sony a6000 - I do have 7 Canon lenses that I hope some could be used with an adapter, if I wanted. Will the auto focus capablities work with the adapter? Am not a big video person, so that isn't important to me. I don't do a lot of sport/action photos anymore, but there are toddlers running around so want to be able to take them. Definitely EVF and moveable LCD screen. Liked the idea of the Micro 4/3 on the Panasonic, but don't think I want to go that route. Suggestions? Thanks
Hi,
very good and to the point article.
I am after what you call prosumer camera. Do you have a ranking of recommended ones?
Thanks,
Hi Carola -
Follow this link to a listing of our best-selling "prosumer" mirrorless cameras sorted in descending order of ppoularity, based on sales at B&H:
Best Selling "Prosumer" Mirrorless Cameras
Hi I am using Canon 60d for 3 years upgraded from 500D Canon, have 50mm prime 24mm prime 10-18mm 17-55mm and 55-250mm canon lenses. I am planning to go full frame so I am thinking should I go DSLR full frame or mirrorless? Thanks
Being that you have used Canon DSLR’s for the past few years, it may be more practical to get into a Canon DSLR with a full frame sensor since the control layouts are similar. A good option in the entry level line up is the Canon 6D Mark II, B&H # CAE6D2241054. While your 50mm lens will still work on it, the other lenses will not.https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/1346735-REG/canon_eos_6d_mark_ii.html
Are there any mirrorless camera that can couple with Nikon G lens via an adaptor and allow aoutofocus? Does Nikon have a full frame mirrorless camera? What I would like is a mirrorless camera that has there own lens but also allow me to use the Nikon G lens for my full frame and D crop lens. I hear that Nikon will be announcing a new mirrorless soon - True?
If you wanted to use your Nikon G lenses on a mirrorless camera and retain full functionality, your best option would be to go with one of the Nikon 1 mirrorless cameras and the Nikon FT1 Mount Adapter. Though, Nikon does not make a full frame mirrorless camera. Unfortunately, I don’t know if/when Nikon might be releasing a new camera until an announcement is made. As soon as an announcement was made, we would have the information up on our site.
I am a long-standing Canon user, now with a mirrorless eos m3, and looking to upgrade. My criteria are strange, and the MOST important is camera weight, as I am an ultralight backpacker. Other important items are battery life, image quality, camera speed, and ruggedness of the system. The Canon eos m10 appears appealing, but wish it would be upgraded while keeping the weight down. I'd consider other brands if they offered significant advantages. Do you have any suggestions or recommendations? Wait for an upgrade? I'm doing the PCT next year so can't wait too long!
The Canon EOS M10 appears to be one of the lightest weight mirrorless options currently on the market. It would be slightly lighter than your EOS M3, and does appear to have slightly better battery life. If your main concern is weight, the M10 might be the way to go. Unfortunately, I don’t know if/when Canon might release an update. Though, even if it was updated before your event, there is no guarantee that the upgrade would be this light.
HI,
After doing some research on mirrorless cameras, I've narrowed the possibilities to the Canon EOS M6 and the Olympus PEN-F. My point of comparison is a Nikon D7000 with several lenses that I love, and will continue to use. I am looking for something with fast shutter reponse, and excellent image quality while being more compact for travel. Any thoughts on the two cameras?
Between the Canon EOS M6 and the Olympus PEN-F, they would both be very responsive in terms of shutter lag. The upside of using the PEN-F would be the faster continuous shooting rate and the greater amount of autofocus points you can use over the EOS M6. Additionally, the PEN-F would offer a vast array of lenses with a direction connection within the Micro 4/3 system while the Canon EF-M system only gives you a handful of its own lenses and adaptation with Canon EF and EF-S. The downside with the PEN-F is the smaller sensor. The EOS M6 would offer a larger APS-C sensor, thus a larger image area to work with.Between the Canon EOS M6 and the Olympus PEN-F, they would both be very responsive in terms of shutter lag. The upside of using the PEN-F would be the faster continuous shooting rate and the greater amount of autofocus points you can use over the EOS M6. Additionally, the PEN-F would offer a vast array of lenses with a direction connection within the Micro 4/3 system while the Canon EF-M system only gives you a handful of its own lenses and adaptation with Canon EF and EF-S. The downside with the PEN-F is the smaller sensor. The EOS M6 would offer a larger APS-C sensor, thus a larger image area to work with. If you're doing an equal amount of stills and video, you might want to opt for the EOS M6 based on its larger sensor and features such as its built in microphone port.
Hi, great overview. Can mirrorless cameras shoo HDR?
Thanks,
Marc
Yes, most Sony cameras will have a DRO (Dynamic Range Optimizer)/HDR (High Dynamic Range) mode built in.
Hi there,
I loved the article it helped sort through some of the questions i had down to what really mattered.
I have one more question that i was wondering if you could help with before i make a purchase to take on a month long vacation. i've noticed that lots of the mirrorless cameras are sold as kits, in one of several combinations such as standard zoom lens; standard zoom lens plus large range telephoto; standard zoom lens plus flash. I'm an amature photographer but would love to spend my money on a lens that works for all purpose shooting and delivers great results right away. I'm tempted to stear clear of the kits in favor of body only and sold seperate low (2.0 etc) apperature lens for selective focus and speed shooting. If i go this route there seem to be a ton of options from $200 all the way up to $800. What sort of things should i look for in the various available lenses is fixed focal length the best way to go, maybe an explicit wide angle, or at the end of hte day will the kit lenses really be the best bet.
Thanks,
That’s a great question. To really stay within the larger aperture range, prime lenses are best way to go. For example, having a variety of wide, normal and telephoto prime lenses will help cover most situations such as when shooting landscapes or portraits. Lenses from Zeiss, particularly for the Sony E mount, come in these focal lengths for both full frame and APS-C sensors. Here is a list of those lenses available from Zeiss for the Sony E mount cameras. https://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/search?atclk=Lens+Mount_Sony+E-mount+%28Full+Frame%29&ci=17912&N=4196380428+4291107378+4099560915+3999800997
I am having a hard time deciding between the Fuji X-T2 and Sony a6300. Do you have any recommendation? I know Fuji offers more lens options but the body is more expensive than Sony. The most important factor is image quality. Which one is better? and Can either one of these be used for kids sports?
Hi Luka -
The a6300 is a very easy camera to use and offers speedy, accurate auto focusing making it ideal for sports shooting:
Fast-focusing and 4K-shooting, the Alpha a6300 from Sony is a versatile APS-C-format mirrorless digital camera designed for multimedia image-makers. Revolving around a redeveloped 24.2MP Exmor CMOS sensor and BIONZ X image processor, clean image quality is provided with a wide expandable sensitivity range to ISO 51200, along with accelerated readout speeds for internal 4K30 and Full HD 1080p120 video recording with full pixel readout. Stills shooters also benefit from the apt processing speed, which enables continuous shooting at 11 fps for up to 21 raw frames in a burst, as well as 14-bit raw file output. Complementing both stills and video, the sensor and processor combination also avails 4D FOCUS, which combines a wide-coverage 425-point phase-detection system with a 169-area contrast detection system for quick and precise focusing performance. This focusing system also enables High-density Tracking AF for more efficient and accurate tracking of moving subjects across the image frame. A well-rounded camera for both photographers and videographers, the a6300 is characterized by its speed and further qualified by its refined image and video quality.
The apt 4D FOCUS system also lends itself to a variety of focusing functions for refined accuracy, including Lock-on AF, which maintains focus on moving subjects throughout the use of a configurable frame that is set over the desired moving subject, and Expand Flexible Spot, which employs neighboring focus points to retain focus on moving subjects even if the originally selected point loses focus. Additionally, Eye AF can be used to base focus on recognized subjects' eyes for portraits and is available in both AF-S and AF-C modes. Autofocus can also be used in conjunction with the Focus Magnifier function for critical focus when homing in on minute subject details.
A robust magnesium alloy body offers a durable profile, and also incorporates dust and moisture seals to protect against harsh environments
hi B &H,
I am looking to buy a mirrorless camera for my husbands upcoming birthday. He currently has a Nikon D7000 which with a few Tamron lenses. I know some basics about cameras and appreciated your recent article but i am hard pressed to choose a camera that would be similar to what he has in function and has the lightness of a mirrorless camera. Any suggestions would be helpful.
thanks!
hi B &H,
I am looking to buy a mirrorless camera for my husbands upcoming birthday. He currently has a Nikon D7000 which with a few Tamron lenses. I know some basics about cameras and appreciated your recent article but i am hard pressed to choose a camera that would be similar to what he has in function and has the lightness of a mirrorless camera. Any suggestions would be helpful.
thanks!
You might look at the Sony a6500. It would be an excellent compact option for a mirrorless camera. It has amazing image quality and low light performance, while also being a fast camera with a great autofocus system.
Amazing article! Detailed yet quick and simple to understad. Much appreciated mate.
Great article but it does leave me with some questions. My wife and I are professional landscape and wildlife photographers. And we are Canon shooters for over 30 years. Our current gear includes Canon 6D, 5DMarkIII, and the 70D among others with a wide range of Canon lenses including 17-49mm, 24-105mm, 70-300, 100-400 among others plus flash equipment, tripods, etc. What would we be facing if we decided to switch to mirrorless bodies?
Hi Dan -
I would simply add a mirrorless body and retain your other superb Canon cameras:
A well-rounded mirrorless camera for both stills and video use, the black EOS M6 from Canon offers apt imaging qualities with a refined, functional physical design. Making use of a 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor, both high-resolution stills and Full HD 1080p/60 video can be recorded, while the DIGIC 7 image processor affords a wide expanded sensitivity range from ISO 100-25600, along with quick continuous shooting up to 9 fps. The sensor's design also facilitates Dual Pixel CMOS AF, which uses phase-detection autofocus for quick, accurate, and smooth performance to suit both stills and video use. Additionally, Combination IS 5-axis image stabilization also helps to realize steady, shake-free recording by minimizing the appearance of camera shake.
First of all, great piece! Concise and brief; it was a joy to read. I'm in need of advice: I've been saving up for a mirrorless camera for quite some time now and I'm torn between the Sony a6000 and the Fuji XT10. This will be my first step into photography; not aiming to become a professional but I just want to have an outlet for creativity outside of med school. I hear that both cameras are great although I have reservations for each after going through numerous review sites and forums. Sony appeals to me more based on the specs (11fps continuous shooting, fast AF, 24.3 MP, etc.) and I feel that in the long run, it would still remain as competitive as it was when it first came out. However, I often see negative reviews about Sony service centers almost everywhere (especially from where I live). Also, the lens options seem very limited to me. Fujifilm, on the other hand, has *better image quality (at least from what I often hear). I also like the colors Fujifilm produces; it looks more vivid even when in raw so little to no editing is required. But the specs just doesn't look too competitive and I feel that it would eventually lose its appeal when other brands start to release newer cameras.
I'm aiming to do a lot portrait shots, street and everyday photograpy, maybe some landscapes too. I'm just in need of a camera that will help me grow into photography without having to drastically change my entire gear very often. Lenses, of course, are an exception. Thanks! Would love to hear your thoughts very soon.
Hi Anna -
We have dozens of employee, professional shooters all, who own both of these cameras and love them enormously. It seems that you have a personal and visual preference for the Fujifilm X-T10. I recommend following your heart and your eyes, and go X-T10.
I am looking at moving from my Canon DSLR to a mirrorless setup - either Sony A6300 or Fuji X-T20. I mainly do nature photography - flying birds, landscape and street scenes. Would you recommend one of these makes over the other? Looking at lenses I want to have two better (not kit) zoom lens 18-50 range and 50 - 300(?) range. Would I get a better choice and value on the lens side with one make over the other?
I would appreciate your comments am open for learn if there is another brand of camera in the same price range that should be considered. Thank you.
That would be a difficult decision: both the a6300 and XT20. Between the two, I would likely lean towards the Sony a6300. I find it to have one of the better autofocus systems in that class of mirrorless camera, which would be great for taking photos of birds in flight. It also has excellent image quality and low light performance. As for lenses, you could look at the Sony Vario-Tessar T* E 16-70mm f/4 ZA OSS Lens for a standard zoom and the Sony FE 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G OSS Lens for a telephoto zoom.
Dear B&H,
I do engineering for forensic purposes and take a lot of photographs. My current and favorite camera so far has been a Canon G-12. I've taken over 30,000 photographs with it but the display is starting to flicker. I've been considering replacing it with a mirrorless but I'm not excited about carrying a bag of lenses. I like being able to stuff the G-12 into my pocket and have it available at the top of a ladder or under a wrecked truck. The G-12 lets me focus to objects as close as a couple of centimeters. I also like the fold out screen. I sometimes need to shoot around corners into compartments in which I can't see directly into. The G-12 rarely takes a spoiled shot unless I inadvertently activate one of the button controls with gloved hands. Maybe I should just get a new Canon G series. Any advice is appreciated.
If you don’t want to switch out lenses, and were extremely happy with your G12, I would likely go with another G series point and shoots from Canon. If you’ve found that the G12 is a tool that works well for what you shoot, I feel that another G series camera would be the way to go. You might checkout the Canon PowerShot G5 X Digital Camera. It has a vari-angle LCD like the G12. It has a larger higher resolution sensor which should make it better in low light while also providing higher resolution files. While the minimum focus distance isn’t as close as with the G12, it is still better than you would get with a mirrorless camera (short of using a macro lens).
Thanks for a well-written, comprehensive overview of the mirrorless vs dslr camera options. I have several great optical Nikon lenses (AI and non-AI) as well as several digital lenses and a Nikomat and D40 and D80 bodies. Are there any mirrorless cameras (current or on the horizon) which will be backwards compatible with the Nikon mounts (and have an APS or full-frame sensor)? And if not, what's the difference between an E and EF mount lens in the Sony series? (I think I might be leaning toward the Sony for the frame size, but the Oly and Panasonic lense options sound very sexy).
Depending on the body, there may be an manual F-Mount lens adapter that could work for your needs. I would recommend sending us an email to [email protected] and let us know the specific lens and body combo you were looking to use.
In regards to Sony lenses, Sony E-Mount lenses are designed for APS-C sized sensors, however they can also be used on Full Frame bodies as well. If used on a Full Frame body, there would be a 1.5x crop factor of the focal length. Sony FE-Mount lenses are designed for Full Frames bodies, and will similarly have a 1.5x crop when used on APS-C sized bodies.