The world of photography has evolved rapidly, and as a result, mirrorless cameras have taken the lead in recent years. In addition, these innovative devices offer lightweight designs, advanced autofocus systems, and high-quality video recording, making them popular among both beginners and professionals alike. In this guide, we’ll not only explore some of the best mirrorless cameras available on the market today, but also provide insights for novice photographers stepping into the field, as well as seasoned professionals seeking the ultimate image-capturing tool.
What is a Mirrorless Camera?
Mirrorless cameras, as the name suggests, do away with the internal mirror found in traditional DSLR cameras. Without the mirror, these cameras rely on an electronic viewfinder or the rear screen to display a live preview of the image. As a result, mirrorless cameras have more compact and lightweight bodies compared to their DSLR counterparts. Moreover, they often offer superior video capabilities, along with faster autofocus and increased customization options. Furthermore, these features make mirrorless cameras highly appealing to both amateur and professional photographers.
Now, let’s dive into the best options for beginners and professionals alike, providing detailed reviews of the top contenders.
Best Mirrorless Cameras for Beginners
The Canon EOS R50 is one of the most approachable mirrorless cameras for beginners. Its compact design, user friendly interface, and advanced features for its class make it an ideal entry point into the mirrorless world.
Key Features:
- Sensor: 24.2 MP APS-C CMOS sensor
- Autofocus: Dual Pixel CMOS AF
- Video: 4K at 30fps
- ISO Range: 100 – 25,600 (expandable to 51,200)
- Price: £604 (body) – £789 (with kit lens).
Review
The Canon EOS R50 is specifically designed for those who are just getting into photography yet want a camera that will grow with them. In addition to its beginner friendly features, the 24.2 MP sensor captures images with impressive clarity and detail. Moreover, the Dual Pixel CMOS AF system ensures focusing is quick and easy. Not only that, but this camera also excels in video recording, with its 4K video capabilities making it a popular choice for vloggers and content creators.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight, easy to carry
- Excellent autofocus system for stills and video
- Intuitive user interface
- Competitive pricing
Cons:
- Lacks in-body image stabilisation (IBIS)
- Limited for professional use in more demanding environments
2. Sony Alpha A6100
The Sony Alpha A6100 is yet another beginner friendly mirrorless camera that effectively combines affordability with a robust set of features. In particular, it offers fast autofocus, as well as excellent video capabilities, making it a great choice for those new to photography who are also looking for strong performance.
Key Features:
- Sensor: 24.2 MP APS-C Exmor CMOS sensor
- Autofocus: 425 phase-detection points
- Video: 4K at 30fps
- ISO Range: 100-32,000 (expandable to 51,200)
- Price: £449 (body) – £624 (with kit lens)
Review:
Sony’s A6100 stands out for its autofocus system, which boasts 425 phase detection points. This wide AF coverage ensures sharp focus even on fast moving subjects, making it ideal for sports, wildlife, or action photography. The camera’s 4K video performance is impressive for its class, and its compact, lightweight design makes it a fantastic travel companion.
Pros:
- Fast and reliable autofocus
- Excellent image quality for its price
- Sharp 4K video recording
- Compact and lightweight
Cons:
- Lacks in-body image stabilisation
- Menu system can be confusing for beginners
3. Fujifilm X-S10
For beginners looking for something a bit more advanced and creative, the Fujifilm X-S10 is an excellent option. It combines Fujifilm’s renowned image quality with a user-friendly design.
Key Features:
- Sensor: 26.1 MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS 4
- Autofocus: 425-point hybrid autofocus
- Video: 4K at 30fps
- ISO Range: 160-12,800 (expandable to 51,200)
- Price: £668 (body) – £1,699 (with kit lens)
Review:
The X-S10 comes with in-body image stabilisation (IBIS), a rare feature in cameras at this price point, which makes it easier to shoot in low-light conditions and capture sharp images without a tripod.Its 26.1 MP X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor not only delivers excellent image quality, but also offers stunning colour reproduction and dynamic range, making it perfect for both photography and videography. Additionally, the retro-inspired design appeals to those who appreciate tactile controls, as well as a more classic photography experience. Furthermore, this blend of modern performance and vintage style makes it a favorite among enthusiasts.
Pros:
- In-body image stabilisation
- Beautiful image quality with rich colours
- User-friendly for both beginners and more advanced photographers
- Compact and lightweight design
Cons:
- Slightly more expensive for beginners
- Limited battery life
4. Nikon Z50
The Nikon Z50 is Nikon’s answer to the growing popularity of mirrorless cameras, offering a solid option for those stepping into photography while still providing enough room for growth.
Key Features:
- Sensor: 20.9 MP APS-C CMOS sensor
- Autofocus: 209-point hybrid autofocus
- Video: 4K at 30fps
- ISO Range: 100-51,200
- Price: £494 (body) – £814 (with kit lens).
Review:
The Z50 offers impressive ergonomics, making it one of the most comfortable mirrorless cameras to use. It excels in low light performance, allowing you to shoot in dim environments without compromising image quality. Although it lacks in-body stabilisation, Nikon’s DX lenses help compensate with built-in stabilisation. In addition, the Z50 is an excellent choice for both photography and videography, thanks to its 4K video capabilities and solid autofocus performance. Moreover, its versatility makes it a strong contender for those seeking a reliable, all-around camera.
Pros:
- Great ergonomics and comfortable handling
- Impressive low-light performance
- Solid autofocus system
- Excellent 4K video recording
Cons:
- No in-body image stabilisation
- Limited native lens selection for the Z DX mount
Best Mirrorless Cameras for Professionals
1. Sony Alpha A7 IV
Sony’s Alpha A7 IV is the latest in its acclaimed A7 series, offering a professional grade tool that delivers high quality performance for both photographers and videographers.
Key Features:
- Sensor: 33 MP full-frame Exmor R CMOS sensor
- Autofocus: 759 phase-detection points
- Video: 4K at 60fps
- ISO Range: 100-51,200 (expandable to 204,800)
- Price: $1,699 to £2,098 (body only)
Review:
The Sony A7 IV excels in nearly every department, from its 33 MP sensor that produces stunningly detailed images to its 759-point autofocus system, which ensures sharpness and focus accuracy even in challenging conditions. It’s a fantastic choice for hybrid shooters, offering 4K video recording at 60fps with excellent dynamic range. The camera’s low-light performance is impressive, making it suitable for event, landscape, and portrait photographers alike.
Pros:
- Outstanding image quality with excellent dynamic range
- Advanced autofocus system with real-time Eye AF
- Excellent video features with 4K 60fps recording
- Impressive low-light capabilities
Cons:
- Higher price point
- Large file sizes for high-resolution images
2. Canon EOS R5
The Canon EOS R5 is widely regarded as one of the best professional mirrorless cameras on the market today. It’s packed with features that make it perfect for high-end photography and videography.
Key Features:
- Sensor: 45 MP full-frame CMOS sensor
- Autofocus: Dual Pixel CMOS AF II with 1,053 AF points
- Video: 8K at 30fps, 4K at 120fps
- ISO Range: 100-51,200 (expandable to 102,400)
- Price: $£1,709 – £2,549 (used body only) –
Review:
Canon’s EOS R5 is a powerhouse for professionals. Its 45 MP sensor not only captures images with incredible detail and sharpness, but also enhances overall image quality. Moreover, its Dual Pixel CMOS AF II system provides fast and accurate focusing, even when tracking fast moving subjects. In addition, the EOS R5 stands out in the video department with its ability to shoot 8K footage. However, this feature can sometimes lead to overheating issues. Nevertheless, for photographers and videographers who demand the best, the EOS R5 undoubtedly delivers on every front.
Pros:
- 45 MP sensor with superb image quality
- Cutting-edge autofocus system
- Unparalleled video capabilities with 8K recording
- Rugged, weather sealed body
Cons:
- Expensive
- Potential overheating during 8K video recording
3. Nikon Z9
For professionals who demand the highest performance in terms of speed, durability, and image quality, the Nikon Z9 stands out as one of the best mirrorless cameras available. It’s specifically designed for action shooters, such as sports and wildlife photographers, who in particular need a camera capable of capturing fast-moving subjects with incredible accuracy and speed. Furthermore, this camera excels in situations where timing and precision are crucial, making it an ideal choice for those demanding high performance in challenging environments.
Key Features:
- Sensor: 45.7 MP full-frame stacked CMOS sensor
- Autofocus: 493-point hybrid autofocus system
- Video: 8K at 30fps, 4K at 120fps
- ISO Range: 64-25,600 (expandable to 102,400)
- Price: $3,729 (body only) – £4,314 (body + bag).
Review:
The Nikon Z9 represents a significant leap forward for Nikon’s mirrorless lineup. Its 45.7 MP stacked sensor allows for ultra-fast readout speeds, meaning it can handle quick bursts of up to 20 frames per second in full resolution ideal for capturing sports or wildlife in action. The 493 point hybrid autofocus system is intelligent and precise, ensuring that even the most erratic movements are tracked with ease.
One of the standout features of the Z9 is its video capability. It can shoot in 8K at 30fps, making it one of the few cameras that offer such high resolution video recording. Additionally, its 4K video at 120fps ensures that slow-motion footage is exceptionally smooth and detailed.
The build quality of the Z9 is rugged and professional, with a fully weather-sealed body designed to handle extreme shooting conditions. Nikon has done away with the mechanical shutter in the Z9, relying entirely on an electronic shutter, which means faster performance and reduced wear and tear over time.
Pros:
- Exceptional image quality with 45.7 MP sensor
- Ultra-fast autofocus and burst shooting speeds
- Robust build quality with weather-sealed design
- 8K video recording and 4K at 120fps for high-quality video work
- No mechanical shutter, reducing long-term maintenance
Cons:
- High price point
- Large and heavy compared to other mirrorless models
- Limited accessibility for casual photographers due to complexity and cost
4. Panasonic Lumix GH6
The Panasonic Lumix GH6 is a powerhouse for professional videographers and hybrid shooters who prioritise video quality. While it’s a Micro Four Thirds system, the GH6 offers some of the most advanced video features available in the mirrorless market.
Key Features:
- Sensor: 25.2 MP Micro Four Thirds sensor
- Autofocus: Contrast-detection AF with 225 focus points
- Video: 5.7K at 60fps, 4K at 120fps
- ISO Range: 100-25,600
- Price: £1,049 – £1,349 (body only)
Review:
The GH6 is designed primarily for videographers who demand high performance in a smaller, more affordable package. It’s capable of recording 5.7K video at 60fps, giving users an incredibly high resolution output with exceptional detail. Additionally, its 4K recording at 120fps provides excellent slow-motion footage.
One of the key features of the GH6 is its robust array of codecs and bitrates, which allows users to shoot in formats such as ProRes 422 HQ. This flexibility, in particular, is critical for professional filmmakers who require advanced post-production control. However, while the autofocus system is not on par with the phase detection systems found in higher-end models from Sony or Canon, the GH6’s strengths in video recording greatly outweigh this drawback for those who prioritize video over still photography.
When it comes to still photography, the 25.2 MP sensor provides solid performance, though it doesn’t match the full-frame competition in terms of dynamic range or low light capabilities. Nonetheless, the camera’s smaller sensor enables a more compact design, which makes it ideal for travel or on-the-go shooting.
Pros:
- Industry-leading video features with 5.7K recording
- High-quality slow-motion capabilities with 4K at 120fps
- Wide range of codecs, including ProRes
- Compact and lightweight compared to full-frame options
Cons:
- Autofocus lags behind competitors
- Smaller sensor limits low-light performance for still photography
- Not ideal for photographers who prioritise stills over video
5. Leica SL2-S
Leica cameras are renowned for their superior build quality and impeccable image performance, and the Leica SL2-S is no exception. This mirrorless camera is specifically aimed at professionals who demand both exceptional image quality as well as a minimalist design.
Key Features:
- Sensor: 24 MP full frame CMOS sensor
- Autofocus: Contrast-detection AF with 225 focus points
- Video: 4K at 60fps, 1080p at 180fps
- ISO Range: 50-100,000
- Price: $£2,439 – £6,999 (body only)
Review:
The SL2-S is a fusion of classic Leica design and modern technology. While its 24 MP sensor may seem modest compared to other professional cameras, Leica’s expertise in image quality ensures that the results are outstanding, with exceptional sharpness, dynamic range, and colour fidelity. This camera is a joy to use for portrait, landscape, and street photography, thanks to its minimalist controls and intuitive layout.
Where the SL2-S really shines is in its build quality. It’s a beautifully crafted camera with a rugged, weather sealed body that feels luxurious in the hand. The simplicity of the user interface is a hallmark of Leica, making it a camera that emphasises the shooting experience rather than bombarding users with too many settings or options.
For videographers, the SL2-S offers 4K recording at 60fps and Full HD at 180fps, providing ample creative flexibility for professional video production. While it doesn’t boast the advanced video features of the Panasonic GH6 or Canon EOS R5, it delivers cinematic quality and simplicity in operation, ideal for filmmakers who prioritise aesthetics and craftsmanship.
Pros:
- Impeccable image quality with Leica optics
- Simplified controls for a focused shooting experience
- Rugged, weather-sealed build quality
- Excellent 4K video recording with 10-bit color depth
Cons:
- Very expensive compared to competitors with more advanced features
- Autofocus performance could be faster
- Limited lens options within the native Leica L-mount system
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Mirrorless Camera
Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned professional, the mirrorless camera market offers a wide array of options to suit different needs and budgets. For beginners, cameras like the Canon EOS R50, Sony Alpha a6100, and Fujifilm X-S10 provide an excellent entry point into photography with user-friendly features and excellent image quality.
On the professional side, the Sony Alpha A7 IV, Canon EOS R5, and Nikon Z9 offer top-tier performance for demanding photographers and videographers, with incredible autofocus systems, high resolution sensors, and outstanding video capabilities. Each of these cameras caters to specific needs, from hybrid shooters to action photographers and filmmakers.
Ultimately, the best mirrorless camera for you depends on your specific requirements, whether it’s portability, autofocus performance, video capabilities, or sheer image quality. Each of the cameras reviewed in this guide offers a unique combination of features that can elevate your photography or videography to the next level. Choose the one that aligns with your creative vision and technical needs, and you’ll be well on your way to capturing stunning images and videos.