Best mirrorless cameras in 2024: Canon, Nikon, Sony and more

Getting to grips with the best mirrorless cameras on the market can be a bit intimidating given the huge range of choice and all the different brands and models that are available. That's why our expert reviewers have put together this guide to help you find the right camera for you whatever your needs and budget.

Mirrorless cameras have taken the photography world by storm in recent years and are well on their way to replacing traditional DSLR models altogether. As the name suggests, they don't contain a mirror (or prism) like SLR and DSLR cameras, and they also replace the optical viewfinder with an electronic screen. The advantages of this are that they tend to be faster, lighter and more compact, giving you all the benefits of modern technology without the added bulk.

You'll find three main types of sensors in mirrorless cameras — full-frame where there is no image cropping, APS-C (also known as crop sensor) and Micro Four Thirds, both of which produce a cropped image. Although full-frame cameras tend to be the largest and most capable, they can also be expensive, and cropped images are sufficient for most general users.

If you're not quite decided on a mirrorless camera yet, have a look at our guide to all the best cameras for photos and videos to see the full range of mirrorless and DSLR options. And if your particular focus is astrophotography, we also have a list of all the best cameras for astrophotography, along with the best lenses for astrophotography and best tripods.

The quick list

Below we've summarized our top picks of the best mirrorless cameras, including their main specs, features and whom they might be best suited for. If you need more in-depth information, click on the 'read more below' buttons to read full reviews.

Kimberley Lane author image
Kimberley Lane

Kimberley Lane is a landscape & seascape photographer living in South Wales. Originally using photography as a way to cope with health issues, she aims to portray a feeling of calm and peace through her images. Her work has been featured in a number of national photography magazines.

The best mirrorless cameras we recommend in 2024

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Best overall

The best camera overall on the market today, this is our top pick

Specifications

Type: Mirrorless
Sensor: Full-frame
Lens mount: Nikon Z
ISO Range: 64-25,600 (expandable to 102,400)
Viewfinder size/resolution: 3.2-inches, 3.69m-dot
Video capability: 8K 60p 12-bit
Weight: 2.01 lb (910g) inc. battery
Size: 5.6 x 4.7 x 3.3-inches (144 x 118.5 x 83 mm)
Memory card type: Single SD UHS-II and single CFexpress/XQD card

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent low light performance
+
Incredible FPS burst speed
+
Extremely detailed images

Reasons to avoid

-
Very expensive
-
Overkill for many casual shooters
-
Much bigger than its predecessor
Buy it if:

You can afford it: This is a big investment but it's worth it if you'll be in the industry for years to come.

You shoot stills and video: This camera is just as impressive at both of these tasks 

Don't buy it if:

You don't see yourself in the photography game long term: This is a very expensive camera and overkill for most casual shooters.

You're looking or something lightweight and portable: This model is significantly heavier and bigger than its predecessor. It looks and feels like a professional camera.

The bottom line:

🔎 Nikon Z8: Professionals need to look no further — if you combined all the best parts of the flagship Nikon Z9 and the best DSLR in the world, the Nikon D850, you'd be left with this heavy-hitter; the Nikon Z8. ★★★★★

If you're an amateur on a budget, look away now: the Nikon Z8 isn't for you. Sorry. But if you're a professional who earns their living from photography, or have plenty of money to spend on your hobbies, mirrorless cameras don't really come better than this. If we had to sum up the Nikon Z8, we'd say it takes all the best bits of the fantastic Nikon D850 DSLR and Nikon's flagship Nikon Z9 and mixes 'em all together.

Design: This is a seriously great looking and feeling camera that manages to be sturdy and strong at the same time. It feels great in your hands with enough grip to suit even the largest palms. We love the controls and found their placement to feel natural and well thought out. It's on the large side for a mirrorless camera, but the Nikon Z8 still manages to be smaller than some, meaning it's light enough to hold for long periods of time.

Performance: The Nikon Z8 is capable of capturing just about anything you can throw at it, whether that's stills or video. No matter what type of photography you're into — weddings, portraits, sporting events, landscape, astro — it's capable of delivering fantastic results. We've been particularly impressed with how well it handles noise: When you're shooting in low-light conditions, you'll really notice a difference. For videographers, you'll greatly appreciate the N-Log, ProRes and Raw HQ formats available. 

If you're an astrophotographer you'll love the night vision mode included here, which displays red pixels to assist in maintaining your night vision. We really wish more cameras had such an excellent, thoughtful feature.

Functionality: Our only real complaint? Its screen doesn't fully articulate, which can make shooting at certain angles a little awkward. But there's little else to complain about here: As we established in our Nikon Z8 review, it's simply the best camera body on the market right now. Nothing else comes close — it's in a league of its own.

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Nikon Z8
AttributesNotes
DesignOutstanding build quality, but it's big and heavy.
PerformanceStarlight mode enables autofocus detection down to an unheard of -9EV.
FunctionalityNight vision mode for astrophotographers.

Best Sony

Best for full-frame resolution: This powerhouse features groundbreaking AI-based autofocus to never miss a shot and incredible full-frame resolution

Specifications

Type: Mirrorless
Sensor: 61MP, Full frame
Lens mount: E mount
ISO Range: 100 - 3200 (expanded 50 - 102,400)
Viewfinder size/resolution: 3.2-inch / 9.44M dot
Video capability: 8K/25p video recording
Weight: 1.59 lbs / 723 g including battery
Size: 5.16 x 3.82 x 3.23-inch / 131 x 97 x 82 mm
Memory card type: Dual UHS-II SD/CFexpress Type A slots

Reasons to buy

+
AI-based autofocus system is on a new level
+
One of the best LCD screens we've seen
+
Stunning high-resolution images

Reasons to avoid

-
Files are huge — your computer will need to be able to process them
-
High ISO images are noisy
Buy it if:

You shoot portraits or weddings: The new AI-based autofocus system is on another level and makes shooting people easier than ever.

You shoot multiple styles: This camera excels at most photographic styles and video, so if you like to shoot many different subjects then this could be the camera for you.

Don't buy it if:

 You mainly shoot astro: We noted that due to so many megapixels, the images were very noisy. Fine for occasional astro with AI denoise in post-processing, but there are better options for astro.

The bottom line:

🔎 Sony A7R V: The Sony A7R V builds on the power of its predecessor with its higher resolution EVF and LCD screen, more stops of image stabilization and a new AI autofocus unit, but the massive 61MP sensor provides too much noise for astrophotography. ★★★★½

Design: Honestly, we weren't sure how Sony could improve on the A7R IV, which was one of the best mirrorless cameras of the time. But somehow it has, and the A7R V is nothing short of a breath of fresh air. Its design isn't hugely different from its predecessor, but there are a few notable improvements. 

Perhaps the biggest is the 4-axis, multi-angle LCD screen which is a joy to look at. With 2,095M dots it packs in a huge amount of detail. And finally having a fully-articulated screen is a boon, allowing you to achieve pretty much any angle you want. It's a massive addition for astrophotographers in particular, who typically shoot upwards.

Performance: In our review of the Sony A7R V, we noted how impressed we were with the autofocus. It's a huge improvement over the A7R IV — which already had very good autofocus. This time around, though, it's incredible. Thanks to the use of an AI system, it can recognize human movements, poses and body parts and uses its internal technology to predict how the subject might move. It's also excellent at tracking subjects like animals, insects and vehicles. 

Functionality: There are eight stops of image stabilization built into the Sony A7R V, which is seriously impressive. In our Sony A7R V review, we could shoot handheld at ISO 100 at 1/3 seconds, with our image coming out nice and sharp. That's seriously impressive.

However, we've had mixed results when it comes to astrophotography. We had to bump the ISO up in order to shoot at the stars, which resulted in a fair bit of noise — not altogether unexpected with a 61MP sensor. It's not unusable as an astro camera, and if you've got some image editing software, you can clean images up nicely. But it's something to bear in mind as post-processing could take you a lot longer than you're used to.

The Sony A7R V is certainly an investment, but for the amount of tech you get, we think it's worth every cent and will last for years. If you shoot multiple disciplines, we think you'll love this camera.

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Sony A7R V
AttributesNotes
DesignMost versatile LCD screen yet.
PerformanceSony's autofocus just keeps getting better thanks to the new AI system.
FunctionalityEight stops image stabilization proves great for low light.

Best hybrid

The EOS R5 is a mirrorless powerhouse with huge stills specs and uncropped 8K RAW video

Specifications

Sensor: 45MP, Full-frame
Lens mount: RF (EF/EF-s with adapter)
ISO range: 100-51,200 (expanded 50-102,400)
Video: 8K DCI RAW 30p
Weight without lens: 1.43 lb (650g)
Memory card slots: CFexpress / SD UHS-II

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent low-light autofocusing 
+
Eight stops of image stabilization 

Reasons to avoid

-
Quite expensive
-
Reported overheating problems shooting 8K 
Buy it if

✅ You want good autofocus: this camera has excellent AF even in low light.

✅ You want great image stabilization: the R5 has eight stops of it. 

Don't buy it if:

❌ You're on a budget: this camera is on the expensive side and is mostly a camera reserved for pros, so if you're on a budget you might want to consider other options.

❌ You shoot video a lot: there are reported overheating problems when shooting 8K video.

The bottom line

🔎 The Canon EOS R5 is a great choice for semi-pro photographers looking to upgrade to a camera for life. ★★★★½

Design: The Canon EOS R5 has a bulky appearance, but once it's in your hands it feels rather lightweight — particularly compared to Canon's older DSLRs. If you're used to shooting on one of those, then, you'll certainly notice the drop in size and weight here. 

The RF mount of the R5 also boasts improved optical design which means lenses can have a smaller form factor — a huge benefit for photographers who like to travel around with multiple lenses on their person. 

Performance: In our review of the Canon EOS R5, we called it a first-class professional camera. This is a solid choice for pro photographers, and almost certainly overkill for most enthusiasts. Whether you're shooting video or stills, the R5 will deliver spectacular results: Stills can up up to 45MP while videos can be up to 8K at 30p — although there have been some reports of units overheating while shooting 8K video. Something to bear in mind. 

This camera is an absolute powerhouse when it comes to shooting in low-light conditions. Its -6EV autofocus detection range works so flawlessly that it can practically see in the dark. Coupled with the custom (and excellent) DIGIC X processor, images have very little visible noise, which makes it a great choice for astrophotographers. 

Functionality: The Canon EOS R5 has built-in technology which enhances the dynamic range of every photo you take. Its Auto Lighting Optimizer and Highlight Tone Priority tech do an excellent job of creating bright and contrastful images, and we found them particularly useful for users who might not be as experienced with image processing. Basically, the camera does most of the hard work for you.

We also loved the 5-axis in-body image stabilization in the R5, making handheld shots sharper than they'd otherwise be. Our only complaint is that it doesn't seem quite as effective when you're shooting video at 8K RAW.

During our Canon EOS R5 review, we found the tracking spot on and found the R5 had one of the fastest autofocus systems we've used. However, we did find that over the course of a day, the battery life struggled to keep up with the camera's specs.

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Canon EOS R5
AttributesNotes
DesignA heavy, sturdier design than some other mirrorless cameras.
PerformanceExceptional low light performance.
FunctionalityBattery life is slightly compromised.

Best value

The A7R gives incredible detail and features a fantastic autofocusing system

Specifications

Sensor: 60MP, full frame
Lens mount: E-mount
ISO range: 100-32,000 (expanded 50-102,400)
Video: 4K UHD 30p
Weight without lens: 1.47 lb (665g)
Memory card slots: SD UHS-II x 2

Reasons to buy

+
 Incredible stills resolution 
+
 Brilliant autofocusing system 

Reasons to avoid

-
 Limited ISO range considering price 
-
 No 8K video recording
Buy it if

✅ You want to shoot the sharpest images: the stills resolution is incredible.

✅ You want great features: It has incredible functionality and is very much typical of what you'd expect from Sony.

You're a pro: As this camera is so expensive, it's really only reserved for pros who make money from photography.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want to shoot video: there is no 8K video recording, which is disappointing for a camera this expensive.

❌ You want the biggest ISO range: for the price, 100-32,000 is limited.

You want the best autofocus: While we thought the autofocus was good, those who want the most intelligent autofocus should opt for the newer model — the Sony A7R V.

The bottom line

🔎 The Sony A7R IV is one of the highest resolution full-frame cameras on the market, and has an incredibly impressive autofocus system. ★★★★½

Design: For a full-frame camera, the Sony A7R IV is relatively compact and lightweight, while still maintaining a substantial grip which makes it comfortable and easy to hold. It's also easy to tell when the large buttons have been pressed and the AF joystick is large and tactile, meaning that this camera is eminently usable while wearing gloves, which will be an important consideration for astrophotographers. 

Performance: This camera's monster 61MP sensor is still one of the highest resolutions available on the general market, and it produces staggering image quality, alongside 4K video. In theory it can shoot up to 10 continuous frames per second, but you can run into buffer problems when using burst shooting with such large image files, so it might not be the best choice for sports photographers. However, you do have the option of transforming the A7R IV into a 26MP APS-C camera with a 1.5x crop factor, which allows you to shoot bursts for much longer and makes it compatible with APS-C lenses.

Functionality: One of the best features on this camera is Sony's class-leading autofocus system. Real-time tracking means that the autofocus has been trained to recognize eyes and faces, and in our Sony A7R IV review it was even able to tell when a subject was wearing sunglasses, efficiently switching between eye and face tracking to get the best shot. This works as well on animals as it does on humans, making it a great choice for pet and wildlife photography. The camera also excels in low light, with speeds of up to ISO 6400, so it works well for general astrophotography, too.

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Sony A7R IV
AttributesNotes
DesignSuperb build quality.
PerformanceBright, sharp and colorful images.
FunctionalityHigh megapixel sensor means more image noise.

Best pro camera

Best pro camera: This is likely one of the best-performing cameras ever made

Specifications

Sensor: 45.7MP, Stacked full-frame
Lens mount: Z mount
ISO range: 64-256,000 (expanded 32-102,400)
Video: 8K UHD 60p, 4K UHD 120p
Weight without lens: 2.95 lb (1340g)
Memory card slots: CFexpress type B or XQD card

Reasons to buy

+
Impressive battery life
+
Excellent build quality
+
Incredible burst shooting speed

Reasons to avoid

-
On the heavy side
-
We'd have liked an articulating screen
Buy it if

✅ You're on the go a lot: this camera has impressive battery life, even in temperatures down to -10-degrees celsius / 14-degrees Fahrenheit.

✅ You want a sturdy camera: the build quality on the Z9 is excellent and can withstand years of use.

✅ You shoot sports photography: this camera has very impressive burst speed — it can do 30, 60 and 120FPS in JPEG, and 20FPS in RAW.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You need a lightweight camera: this one is on the heavy side compared to some of its competitors.

❌ You want an articulated screen: the screen on this camera is tilt-only.

The bottom line

🔎 The Nikon Z9 is a brilliant astro camera and a monster for stills and video, but it has a high price. ★★★★½

Design: If you want a lightweight camera, the Nikon Z9 isn't for you. That said, this isn't a camera you buy for its ergonomics: If you're lucky enough to be able to afford its $5500 price tag, this is one of the best mirrorless cameras you can buy, and perhaps one of the best Nikon cameras ever made, period. 

It's a rugged, tough camera and it's fully weather-sealed, making it useable in just about every condition. Nikon even says it'll operate at minus 10 degrees Celcius — something we were (fortunately, we guess) unable to test during our review.

We did spent plenty of time shooting in the cold, however, including multiple long exposures and plenty of adjustments of settings. After three or four hours, we'd only drained 20% of the battery, which we were very pleased with.

Performance: We were seriously impressed with this camera, and we go into great detail as to why in our Nikon Z9 review. It's particularly great at astrophotography and we managed to get some stunning shots of the moon and the night sky at large. We particularly loved the monster battery life of the Z9, which allowed us to keep shooting for hours without worry.

Perhaps the only reason we didn't quite score it five stars (instead, a still-very-impressive 4.5) is that its price point is overkill if astrophotography is your main discipline. It does a stellar job, sure, but you really don't need to spend this much if you aren't going to use the camera much elsewhere.

Functionality: Even if you're shooting in low light conditions, you'll find the Nikon Z9's autofocus to be outstanding. If you're a wedding photographer you'll appreciate the ability to capture those fleeting moments at a second's notice. It's fantastic at burst shooting, managing up to 120FPS — and it's great in the hands of a videographer, too.

No matter what you're taking pictures of — be it people, events, the night sky or landscapes — you'll get outstanding results with the Nikon Z9. The only reason it's not at the top of our list is the fact it's a professional camera with a very heavy price tag, putting it out of the reach of many. If you can afford it, though, you won't be disappointed.

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Nikon Z9
AttributesNotes
DesignHeavy, solidly built body.
PerformanceExcellent astro performance, but overkill if that's all you shoot.
FunctionalityAs capable at video as it is at stills.

Best all-rounder

Great for astro, the reasonably priced Z7 II competes with the most expensive models

Specifications

Sensor: Full frame, 45.7MP
Lens mount: Z-mount (F-mount with adapter)
ISO range: 64-25,600 (expanded 64-102,400)
Video: 4K UHD 60p
Weight without lens: 1.35 lb (615g)
Memory card slots: Multi slot SD UHS-II, CFexpress, XQD x 2

Reasons to buy

+
 Great all-round performance 
+
 Sturdy construction and weather sealed 
+
 Multi-slot memory card port 

Reasons to avoid

-
Not the best at anything 
-
LCD screen is tilt-only
Buy it if

✅ You want a sturdy camera: this one is well-built and fully weather-sealed to protect it against adverse weather.

✅ You want a lot of memory: the Z7 II has a multi-slot D UHS-II, CFexpress, XQD memory card port.

✅ You shoot different styles: this camera performs well all-round, although it's not a master of any specific style.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You only shoot one type of photography: this camera isn't the best at anything, so if you have one specific niche, there are likely other cameras that excel in that particular field.

❌ You want an articulating screen: the LCD screen is tilt-only.

The bottom line

🔎 The Nikon Z7 II is a master of all trades that combines power, speed and precision with a simple interface. ★★★★½

Design: The Nikon Z7 II is a full-frame camera with a huge 45.7MP sensor and 4K60p video that performs impressively across a range of different photography genres, making it the perfect all-rounder. Astrophotographers will love the tilting rear touchscreen since it keeps your hands within easy reach of all the buttons, making it easy to navigate your way around the controls in the dark. It's also fully weather-sealed, so you won't have to worry about rain seeping in when shooting outside.

Performance: This camera is a real powerhouse when it comes to shooting in low light. It handles high ISO image noise incredibly well and the exposure preview is a fantastic feature for helping you set up your shots in the dark. The Automatic White Balance also produces natural-looking colors and manages to limit the orange glow from light pollution as an added bonus. All kinds of photographers will benefit from the 5-axis in-body image stabilization that effectively minimizes shakes and blur.

Functionality: In our Nikon Z7 II review we enjoyed the clutter-free layout of the controls and found the two Fn buttons on the front handy for assigning customizable shortcuts. The camera benefits from dual memory card slots; one taking up to UHS-II SD cards and the other taking XQD or CFexpress cards. This means that if one card gets corrupted you always have a backup option when you're out on important shoots, and you can use both cards together for image overflow. We also found it easy to keep track of manual focusing since any turn of the focusing ring causes the camera to display a gauge on the rear screen showing which focusing distance you have selected — a nice additional feature.

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Nikon Z7 II
AttributesNotes
DesignWeather sealing protects it from the elements
PerformanceExcels at longer shooting sessions
FunctionalityExcellent low light abilities

Best for detail

A world-leading mirrorless camera full of insane specs but with a world-leading price to match

Specifications

Sensor: Full frame, 50MP
Lens mount: Sony E-mount
ISO range: 100-32,000 (expanded 50-102,400)
Video: 8K 30p
Weight without lens: 1.62 lb (737g)
Memory card slots: SD UHS-II and CFexpress x 2

Reasons to buy

+
Incredibly detailed EVF 
+
Jaw-droppingly detailed stills and video 
+
Incredibly accurate eye af and tracking

Reasons to avoid

-
Astronomical price 
-
One for advanced/professional users 
Buy it if

✅ You want detailed shots: whether it's stills or video, the optics on this camera are brilliant thanks to its stacked CMOS sensor and huge 51MP resolution.

✅ You want great features: the autofocus and tracking are incredibly accurate and make this camera reliable and user-friendly.

You shoot astro: the specs are ideal for astro work and it handles noise really well.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You're on a budget: this camera is eye-wateringly expensive, and it's rarely on offer.

❌ You're a beginner: this camera is geared towards advanced and professional users who make money from photography.

The bottom line

🔎 The Sony A1 is an absolute powerhouse for video and photography, but it comes with a very high price tag. It's reserved for pros and anyone who makes money from photography and would likely be overkill for beginners. ★★★★½

Design: The Sony A1 is a seriously stylish camera with a wonderful ergonomic body that's a joy to hold in your hands. It's robust, as you'd expect from its hefty price tag — a price tag that ensures only professionals and those with a big budget will be able to afford this.

But if you can get your hands on the A1, you won't be disappointed. In terms of design, we can only really complain about its lack of a fully-articulating screen — something commonplace in many Sony cameras. Depending on your type of shooting, though, you might not mind a tilt-only screen. If you do want a fully-articulating screen, though, we can recommend the newer Sony A7R V. 

Performance: As we noted in our Sony A1 review, this is one of Sony's best cameras in terms of color reproduction. It has a better dynamic range than tha A9 and A2, too. We're also seriously impressed by its buffer-clearing speed (but that, of course, depends on what type of memory card you're using — the default 51MP files aren't exactly small). It's also handy that the buffer clears as you shoot, meaning the camera can generally keep up with you.

Big, detailed files are great, but they don't come without trade-offs, and it's useful to be able to shoot with lossless compressed files, which reduce the file size to about half of an uncompressed raw file by eliminating unnecessary information. While it may not be the most exciting feature, your storage system and computer processor will thank you for it.

Functionality: The menu system on the Sony A1 is one of the best we've seen from Sony. It's easy to navigate and a joy to use. Considering the company's menus are notorious for being convoluted and messy, the improvements here are hugely appreciated. But that's just the tip of the iceberg. With a huge 50.1MP sensor and the ability to shoot 8K video, the A1 is a serious powerhouse. Its in-body image stabilization of 5.5 stops goes a long way too, making handheld shots every bit as sharp as they should be.

We've loved using the A1 for astrophotography. Its ISO range up to 102,400 allows for incredible astro shots, and because of its powerful CMOS sensor, noise is handled very well. The 15 stops of dynamic range means that even the tiniest celestial bodies barely visible in the night sky can be captured. 

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Sony A1
AttributesNotes
DesignTilt only screen is disappointing for the price.
PerformanceFantastic colors, good noise handling
FunctionalityCan handle anything you throw at it.

Best for intermediates

Great low-light autofocus and an impressive ISO range make this ideal for astro

Specifications

Sensor: 20MP, Full-frame
Lens mount: RF (EF/EF-s with adapter)
ISO range: 100-51,200 (expanded 50- 204,800)
Video: 4K UHD 60p
Weight without lens: 1.31 lb (598g)
Memory card slots: SD UHS-II x 2

Reasons to buy

+
 Better low light AF than R5
+
 Generous ISO range

Reasons to avoid

-
A little more costly than competitor models
-
 Limited to 20MP stills  
Buy it if

✅ You shoot in low light: this has a better low light autofocus than the R5.

✅ You want a large ISO range: this ranges from 100-51,200 (50-204,800 if extended).

You shoot video a lot: Canon-Log creates professional-looking footage.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You're on a budget: there are cheaper competitors out there.

❌ You want to shoot the highest-quality stills: the sensor is limited to 20MP.

The bottom line

🔎 The Canon EOS R6 is a great choice for those who want to shoot professional-looking videos and aren't too concerned about the limited 20.1MP stills. ★★★★½

Design: At a glance, the Canon EOS R6's reverse seems rather on the minimalist side. There's not much there, but once you start using it, you'll realize that it's rather deceptive and in fact, everything is very well organized. There's no overcrowding, meaning your fingers can find the settings they need with ease. It looks elegant as a result, too.

We're also pleased with how compact and lightweight the R6 is. It weighs just 1.5lbs and on its longest edge is just 5.45 inches, so shoving it in just about any camera bag won't be a problem. Our favorite part of its design, though, has to be its vari-angle touchscreen which is pleasurable to use no matter what angle you're shooting from.

Performance: We sort-of consider the R6 to be the Canon EOS R5's younger sibling. It's more affordable, but with that lower price tag, you can also expect a slight drop in image quality. That said, we've found the R6 to be extremely valiant. Its lower image resolution (20.1MP compared to the R5's 45MP) still creates beautiful images, and in fact, when it came to testing astrophotography in our Canon EOS R6 review, we found it actually performed better.

Functionality: The R6 has great autofocus capabilities, autofocusing all the way down to -6.5EV — that's 0.5EV lower than the R5! Its maximum ISO sensitivity is twice the R5, too, and that's perhaps why this camera is so much better suited to shooting night sky objects. The lower pixel count helps in that area, too: With fewer pixels per image, it's less likely to produce unwanted noise. 

Outside of astrophotography, too, the R6 produces beautiful images. Viewing on the LCD screen is great, with bright and vibrant colors shining through. It makes composing scenes a joy, and the rear screen's exposure preview helps in that regard, too. 

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Canon EOS R6
AttributesNotes
DesignMinimalist, elegant design.
Performance20MP sensor performs well for astro.
FunctionalityOutstanding autofocus down to -6.5EV.

Great generalist

A great all-rounder with a 40.2MP sensor, this stylish camera packs a lot into such a small package

Specifications

Sensor: 40.2MP, APS-C
Lens mount: X-mount
ISO range: 125-12,800 (expanded 64-51,200)
Video: 6.2K 30p, 4K 60p webcam mode
Weight without lens: 1.23 lb (557g)
Memory card slots: 2 x SD/SDHX/SDHC slots

Reasons to buy

+
Wide range of compatible lenses
+
High resolution sensor

Reasons to avoid

-
Tilt screen only
-
Not the best at night sky photography
Buy it if

✅ You want to shoot with a range of lenses: there are plenty of lens options with this camera.

✅ You want a detailed sensor: this one has a high resolution of 40.2MP.

You shoot video: it can record 4K 60p in webcam.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want an articulating screen: this camera has a tilt-screen only.

❌ You shoot astro: while IS is decent, image noise at highest ISOs isn't the best.

❌ You're on a budget: this camera isn't the cheapest on this list.

The bottom line

🔎 The Fujifilm X-T5 is a great 'traditional' camera, an all-rounder with a retro look - but it's not the best for astro. ★★★★

Design: Probably best used as a generalist camera, the Fujifilm X-T5 boasts an impressive 40MP sensor and up to 6.2K video, with 4K shooting at 60fps. It has a compact and retro design, available in silver or black, with traditional dials on the top plate for manually adjusting the ISO, shutter speed and exposure. The ISO and shutter dials can be locked to prevent them from being accidentally rotated during shoots or when you're transporting it in your bag. We think traditionalist photographers will really enjoy the tactile feel of this camera.

Performance: The camera features seven-stop built-in image stabilization, making it very adept at shooting handheld even in low-light conditions. The autofocus is able to effectively detect animals, birds and vehicles during daytime shooting, but the level of noise you get at higher ISOs means it probably shouldn't be your first choice for astrophotography alone. That said, the white balance seems very accurate, and the interval timer negates the need for a separate intervalometer, making it easy to capture timelapses, star trails and other celestial events. All this means that it has the potential to be an excellent all-rounder camera for someone who enjoys several different styles of photography.

Functionality: The X-T5 contains a formidable processor, leading to very efficient power consumption and making the battery last for around 700 shots. You get a three-way tilting touchscreen and a four-way joystick for navigating through the camera menu. There are also two SD card memory slots, allowing you to shoot Raw and JPEG image simultaneously, and the multiple exposure mode enables you to combine up to nine images into a composite, which is handy for increasing the sharpness of your night-time images.

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FujiFilm X-T5
AttributesNotes
DesignStylish design with 40.2MP sensor.
PerformanceDecent low light performance.
FunctionalitySome great features for astro work.

Best APS-C

A lightweight model ideal for travel snaps and vlogs

Specifications

Sensor: 34.4MP, APS-C
Lens mount: RF (or EF/EF-S with adapter)
ISO range: 100-32,000 (expanded 100-51,200
Video: 4K 60p
Weight without lens: 1.17 lbs (531g)
Memory card slots: 2x SD/SDHC/SDXC and UHS-II

Reasons to buy

+
Lightweight and portable
+
Autofocus and tracking are excellent
+
Great in low-light scenes

Reasons to avoid

-
Buffer speed could be better
-
Not full-frame
Buy it if

✅ You want a lightweight camera: at just 1.17 lbs / 531g, this is one of the lighter models on this list.

✅ You want great features: autofocus and tracking are excellent.

✅ You shoot at night: this camera is great in low-light scenes.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want a full-frame camera: this is an APS-C camera.

❌ You shoot sports photography: we thought the buffer speed could be better, so it wouldn't be the best option for fast-action photography.

The bottom line

🔎 The Canon EOS R7 is the most advanced crop-sensor camera from Canon that is inexpensive and has pro-grade autofocus. ★★★★½

Design: One of the biggest selling points of the Canon EOS R7 is just how lightweight it is. It weighs just 1.17lbs (531g), making it one of the lightest cameras in this list. It's perfect for travelers and vloggers: It will easily fit in any bag without weighing you down. Another bonus for vloggers: it has a fully-articulating screen, which is perfect when recording on-camera segments.

When it comes to its buttons and controls, the R7 uses a d-pad rather than a dial wheel. It means there are more programmable buttons for easy setting adjustments without having to dive into the menus. We also love that Canon had added a AF-MF switch to the front of the camera, which comes in very handy. Unusually for a camera of this size and price point, it also has dual card slots, which is very handy for backing up your shots. 

Performance: There's little else we can say about the performance of the R7 other than... wow. This is an incredible camera, and as we said in our Canon EOS R7 review, it can handle just about everything you can throw at it, "with ease". Its images are beautifully sharp and colorful, and overall it's a dream to shoot with.

It's great for any kind of photography, whether you're shooting wildlife or portraits. But we were particularly impressed by its performance in low-light conditions. Even with the ISO pushed all the way up to 6000, we struggled to notice much noise, and the images remained pleasantly vivid.

Functionality: This isn't a camera for super high-speed shooting — if that's what you need, we'd recommend taking a look at the Canon EOS R3 instead. That's because of the R7's buffer-clearing speeds and the fact it's incompatible with the fastest cards. But outside of photographing high-octane sports, the R7 will provide you with just about every feature you'd expect in a full frame camera, but at a much more palatable price.

If you're into videography or vlogging, you'll appreciate this camera's fantastic autofocus and eye tracking capabilities. We also love that there's no video record limit. It's worth noting, however, that since Canon is relatively new to the APS-C mirrorless camera game, there are few lens options available, particularly those that are small and lightweight enough for vlogging. We'd expect more to arrive in the next couple of years, though.

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Canon EOS R7
AttributesNotes
DesignDual card slots is great for an APS-C camera.
PerformanceVery versatile and great in low light.
FunctionalityExcellent tracking and no record limit.

Best for beginners

The Fujifilm X-T30 II is a great generalist camera at an affordable price

Specifications

Sensor: 26MP, APS-C
Lens mount: Fujifilm X-mount
ISO range: 160-12,800 (expanded 80-51,200)
Video: 4K DCI 30p
Weight without lens: 0.84 lb (383g)
Memory card slots: 1 x SD / SDHC / SDXC

Reasons to buy

+
Very light and compact
+
Excellent connectivity
+
Fast auto-focus

Reasons to avoid

-
Battery life isn't great
-
Tilt rather than articulated screen
-
Menu takes a bit of getting used to
Buy it if

✅ You want a lightweight camera: at less than 1 lb, this is one of the lighter ones on this list.

✅ You want to share your images: connectivity on this camera makes that simple.

✅ You use autofocus: it's very quick on this camera.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You're on the go a lot: the battery life on this isn't great.

❌ You want an articulated screen: the screen is tilt-only.

❌ You want intuitive controls: the menu can be opaque at times.

The bottom line

🔎 The Fujifilm X-T30 II is a stylish and simple-to-use mirrorless camera that can help to produce stunning, color-rich images. ★★★★½

Design: This is a seriously stylish little camera. We love its classic design, but it's not all about looks: In our Fujifilm X-T30 II review, we found it to be a superb option for capturing quick action and taking snaps while traveling.

We love the dial-based operation of the X-T30 II. It's intuitive and easy to use, and even having never picked up the camera before you'll be able to quickly get to grips with its main settings without having to deep-dive into its menu. There's no fully-articulating screen here, which may put off some users, but it does tilt which can be useful in some situations. 

Performance: While the performance of the Fujifilm X-T30 II is not going to impress professionals, there's a lot here that amateurs and enthusiasts will love. Its auto mode is great for getting fantastic results straight out of the box. We found it to be particularly great a shooting landscapes thanks to the incredible color depth. 

The autofocus is great too, using the same speedy algorithms found in the much more expensive X-T4. In comparison to its predecessor, the X-T30, the sensor is faster and more sensitive to light. However, when shooting handheld indoors, we did see noise increase noticeably. 

Functionality: There's a really cool function with the X-T30, and it's that you can use your phone to change settings. That's right: download an app, and you can adjust your camera's exposure and take photos remotely. It's a seriously cool trick, whether you're wanting to capture candid wildlife shots or just get a group picture with everyone in. 

We also love how easy it is to transfer images from this camera to a smartphone or tablet. Literally two clicks on Fujifilm's Camera Remote App, and it's done. It's great if you're a big Instagrammer, or just want to share photos on the go.

The only real downside is the X-T30's battery life: It's lacking somewhat, being rated for around 380 shots. We'd recommend carrying a spare battery or two in your kit if you're planning on being out shooting all day.

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Fujifilm X-T30 II
AttributesNotes
DesignVery light and compact.
PerformanceSnappy autofocus.
FunctionalityEasy file sharing.

Best Micro Four Thirds

This lightweight and portable model has a speedy autofocusing system

Specifications

Sensor: Micro Four Thirds, 20MP
Lens mount: Micro Four Thirds
ISO range: 200-6400 (extended 64-25,600)
Video: 4K UHD 30p
Weight without lens: 0.84 lb (383g)
Memory card slots: 1x SD UHS-II

Reasons to buy

+
 Incredibly lightweight and portable 
+
 AF system is fast and reliable 

Reasons to avoid

-
Not much room for progression
-
Plastic feel doesn't feel premium
-
Isn't weather sealed 
Buy it if

✅ You want a lightweight camera: this is one of the most portable ones on this list.

✅ You use autofocus a lot: the AF system on this camera is fast and works well.

✅ You want a camera for everyday use: the updated 20MP sensor brings quality to your photography.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You shoot video a lot: this camera has no mic port.

❌ You want a premium-feel camera: while the plastic reduces the weight, it makes it feel cheap.

❌ You're an advanced photographer: the 20MP sensor isn't enough to satisfied experienced photographers.

The bottom line

🔎 If you're new to more complex cameras or need more flexibility than your smartphone, we'd recommend the Olympus OM-D E-M10 MK IV. ★★★★

Design: We love how stylish this pocket-sized camera is. We were fans of the OM-DE E-M10 Mark III, but there are some noteworthy changes which have made this new iteration a worthwhile upgrade, including its improved sensor and faster focusing power.

In our Olympus OM-DE E-M10 Mark IV review, we praised the camera's ergonomics. Its right hand grip is great to hold, and because of the camera's size, it's easy enough to use with just one hand. The touchscreen is a nice touch, too, and the fact that it's flip-down gives it some extra usability, particularly if you're shooting from odd angles. It's particularly handy if you're shooting selfies or taking vlogs.

One thing to watch out for, though, is using the E-M10 Mark IV in bad weather conditions. There's no weatherproofing on the body, so unless you're investing in some expensive waterproof gear for it, you should avoid using it in the rain, snow and fog. If you're more of an astrophotographer, that's unlikely to be too much of an issue because you wouldn't shoot in those conditions anyway.

Performance: Don't let this camera's small sensor put you off: the Micro Four Thirds sensor is very capable. It shoots at 20MP, which rivals some full-frame cameras in terms of resolution. It's a great choice for video too, shooting 4K Ultra HD at 30 frames per second. 

The Olympus OM-DE E-M10 Mark IV has a smaller ISO range compared to other cameras on this list (up to 6,400 with an extended range of up to 25,600). Despite that, it still does a decent job of shooting the stars as long as astrophotographers keep their ISO settings as low as possible to minimize noise. 

Functionality: The autofocus in this camera has been massively improved over the Mark III version. The autofocusing system is up there with the best, more expensive mirrorless cameras and when we tested it, it never failed to lock on to a target, even as it moved at a distance. We enjoyed its burst mode too: it's able to shoot up to 15FPS, which is a great tool when shooting wildlife.

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Olympus OM-D E-M10
AttributesNotes
DesignDesigned with beginners in mind.
PerformanceDelivers clear and balanced images.
FunctionalityWe'd like a fully articulating screen.

Best value for astro

Improvements over its previous iteration make it an accessible way to get into full-frame

Specifications

Sensor: 24.5MP, Full-frame
Lens mount: Z-mount (F-mount with adapter)
ISO range: 100-51,200 (expanded 50-204,800)
Video: 4K UHD 60p
Weight without lens: 1.5 lbs (675g)
Memory card slots: 1x CFexpress/XQD, 1x UHS-II SD

Reasons to buy

+
A good all-rounder
+
Small but welcome improvements over the Z6
+
Great value astrophotography camera

Reasons to avoid

-
Improvements could have been made even better
-
Plenty of competition
Buy it if

✅ You shoot many different styles: this camera is a good all-rounder.

✅ You want a good ISO range: this one extends from 100-51,200, up to 50-204,800 when extended. 

✅ You shoot video: this camera can shoot 60 fps at 4K UHD.

Don't buy it if:

❌ You want a lightweight camera: at 1.5 lbs, you can find lighter than this model.

❌ You want the highest-quality images: the 24.5MP sensor can be a bit limited.

The bottom line

🔎 The Nikon Z6 II is a great all-rounder camera for semi-pros looking to upgrade to mirrorless. ★★★★

Design: The Nikon Z6 II isn't the lightest camera on the market: At 1.5lbs it's a little on the heavy side. Like its predecessor, the Nikon Z6, it sports a robust body with excellent grip and weather sealing, meaning you can use it in almost every condition.

That's not the only thing it has in common with the Nikon Z6. As mentioned in our Nikon Z6 II review, there aren't really enough changes here to warrant an upgrade if you're already using a Z6. But this is still a fantastic camera, and for anyone else, the NIkon Z6 II is the one to go for. 

Performance: We're seriously impressed with the autofocus capabilities of the Z6 II, which are hugely improved over the camera's predecessor. There's a huge range of shutter speeds you can play around with too, which we've found particularly useful when you're shooting astro with the use of a star tracker. The 60FPS for 4K video is a great addition for videographers, although the camera is a bit heavier.

Functionality: There's a dual image processor inside the Nikon Z6 II, which is the brains behind pretty much all improvements in this camera over the Z6. One thing it's allowed for is additional burst rate shooting: it's been improved from 12FPS to 14FPS. It's still not the largest burst rate — the likes of the Canon EOS R6 has it beat —  but it's a step in the right direction and will be more than enough for most people.

That said, the Nikon Z6 II is cheaper than the Canon EOS R6 and, in terms of most other features, is very capable indeed. It would be a good choice for intermediate and professional shooters who are perhaps looking to move over to mirrorless.

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Nikon Z6 II
AttributesNotes
DesignTwo card slots.
PerformanceSpeedy focusing.
FunctionalityIncreased burst rate over the previous model.

Best mirrorless cameras Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best mirrorless camera?

We think the best mirrorless camera you can buy is the Nikon Z8, but while it performs leagues above the rest, it's also the most expensive model in this guide by far. We've chosen the Sony A7R V as our second choice thanks to its powerful autofocusing system and the incredibly detailed images it produces. The Canon EOS R5 is a close third, and may be a good option if you're wanting to shoot video as it can capture 8K RAW video too.

What's the best mirrorless camera for beginners?


If you're a beginner, the Fujifilm X-T30 II is a great choice of mirrorless camera. It has a detailed 26MP sensor and can capture 4K video, but it's also relatively affordable and compact compared to other models in this guide.

However, if you're considering shooting a range of subject from wildlife, astro, portraits, sports, landscapes and macro, you might want to consider a mirrorless camera that's compatible with a broader selection of lenses.

What's the best mirrorless camera under $1000?

The Fujifilm X-T30 II or the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV come out under $1000 even when purchased new. We think they represent excellent value considering their compact and portable design, but also the reliably high-quality results they deliver.

Mirrorless camera vs DSLR which is better?

There's a clear trend in the industry towards mirrorless cameras. They have plenty of features to make the process of creating detailed shots easier that their DSLR counterparts don't, such as in-body stabilization and electronic viewfinders. They also tend to be lighter, smaller and more portable than DSLRs, which photographers on the go will appreciate. 

That said, the DSLR vs mirrorless cameras for astrophotography has been ongoing for years now, and much of it has to do with subjective opinions on ergonomics and image quality. On the whole, a mirrorless camera is more likely to be future-proof, but your preference might lie with DSLRs. 

What's the best mirrorless camera for video?

Are mirrorless cameras good at both stills photography and video capture?

We think the best mirrorless cameras for video are the Sony A1, Canon EOS R5 and Nikon Z9, all of which offer up to 8K RAW video shooting. Their great video capability does make them premium models with a considerable price tag, however, so if you don't need 8K video resolution, the Sony A7R IV is a great model to consider. 

It's worth nothing that all the mirrorless cameras in this guide are capable of shooting at least 4K UHD 30p video. Cameras that are just as capable of creating professional stills and taking video footage are sometimes called hybrid cameras.

What lenses will I need for my mirrorless camera?

We'd recommend getting the best lenses for your mirrorless camera that you can afford. For many types of camera systems this means you can upgrade camera bodies over the years as technology improves but you'll be able to keep the excellent lenses (or 'glass' in photographer lingo) you've invested in.

The best lenses for astrophotography are typically wide-angle lenses and have a fast maximum aperture between f/2.8 or f/1.4 to let in as much starlight as possible onto the image sensor.

However, if you're using a star tracker it's possible to use a telephoto zoom lens for deep-field astrophotography, as the star tracker will keep the object in view during long exposures without blurring the image.

What other accessories will I need to go with my mirrorless camera?

A camera backpack will allow you to transport your camera gear safely and comfortably. A good range of wide-angles, zoom lenses, primes, telephotos, macro, and other specialist lenses maximize the potential and keep those who like to experiment in multiple disciplines interested.

We'd also recommend one of the best tripods or travel tripods to keep the camera steady, make composition easier and this is essential for astrophotography.

Which mirrorless camera do I need?

For most people, the most decisive factor when choosing one of the best mirrorless cameras is undoubtedly price. 

An older model will typically get you a lower price, but you miss out on newer technology like improved image stabilization and more detailed viewfinders. Newer models aimed at professionals will have features that outshine ones for beginner and intermediate photographers, but they'll set you back considerably more. 

It's important to weigh up your budget and what features you will need for your style of photography and the subjects you will be shooting in the long run. Keep an eye on our camera deals page, especially over sales periods such as Black Friday and Amazon Prime Day.

How we tested the best mirrorless cameras

Here at Space.com, we review and test each product individually to ensure you get an honest, hands-on and up-to-date recommendation in our guides. Naturally we take many factors into account when reviewing cameras and they include performance, design, construction and of course, its functionality.

The best mirrorless cameras are tested by expert staff and freelance contributors who know their subject areas inside and out. That ensures each camera gets a personal, knowledgeable review complete with honesty and impartiality, so each model can be judged on price, class and destined use. We wouldn't compare a 60MP full-frame mirrorless camera to a crop-sensor DSLR as it wouldn't be appropriate. However, different models will excel in different areas and each camera may be the best in its class.

We also like to consider if a camera features the latest technology, how easy it is to use and whether or not it's capable of high-quality still and videos. We also like to suggest any extra kit or accessories that would enhance the user's experience, which of course, could be of benefit to you.

With complete editorial independence, Space.com are here to ensure you get the best buying advice on cameras, whether you should purchase an instrument or not, making our buying guides and reviews reliable and transparent.

Join our Space Forums to keep talking space on the latest missions, night sky and more! And if you have a news tip, correction or comment, let us know at: community@space.com.

Jase Parnell-Brookes
Channel Editor

Jase Parnell-Brookes is an award-winning photographer, educator and writer based in the UK. They won the Gold Prize award in the Nikon Photo Contest 2018/19 and was named Digital Photographer of the Year in 2014. After completing their Masters Jase has spent a good chunk of two decades studying and working in photography and optics shooting and writing all over the world for big-name brands and media outlets. Now the Channel Editor for Cameras and Skywatching at Space.com their speciality is in low light optics and camera systems.

With contributions from