Entry level dslr for video

Mirrorless vs DSLR cameras: the 10 key differences you need to know

Mirrorless vs DSLR: introduction

The great mirrorless vs DSLR camera debate has been rumbling for a few years now. So are we any closer to establishing a winner? While the decision will always be a personal choice, the camera manufacturers are starting to make it a lot more straightforward. 

Both Canon and Nikon have been discontinuing, or simply not updating, their DSLR models in recent years. This means mirrorless is very much the default format for new cameras and is our recommendation for most people. But it isn't quite that simple, because DSLRs continue to offer excellent value and have large, established ranges of lenses. And that counts for a lot during these financially-challenging times.

Back in the early days of mirrorless cameras during the late 2000s, the situation was very different. If you were a pro, you tended to pick up a DSLR. Hobbyists and amateurs, who were more bothered by weight and portability, would instead lean towards their mirrorless counterparts.

This has now changed. With flagship cameras like Sony A1, Nikon Z9 and Canon EOS R3, the giants have confirmed that mirrorless is both the present and the future for their best professional cameras. Incredibly, the Nikon Z9 doesn't even have a mechanical shutter, which makes it the real flag-bearer of a new, all-electronic shooting style.

But what exactly are the differences between a mirrorless cameras and a DSLR? And are there any situations where you should still consider the latter? Our in-depth guide is here to give you all the answers – including a simple explanation to that first question.

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Let’s start with the basics and look at the key differences between these two types of cameras. The key is in the names. DSLR stands for Digital Single Lens Reflex, which works by the light hitting a mirror angled at 45 degrees. That light goes straight up into an optical viewfinder which allows you to see precisely what the lens is looking at. This is a true optical path, with no digital processing in the middle. 

When you’re ready to take a photograph, that mirror moves out of the way – to reveal the image sensor – and if you’ve used one in the past, you’ll be familiar with the satisfying (but fairly loud) noise it makes as it does so. 

By contrast, mirrorless cameras – you’ve guessed it – don’t have a mirror. With these cameras, the light passes through the lens and straight onto the sensor to be processed. It’s then displayed either on the monitor on the back of the camera, or in the electronic viewfinder (EVF), which is in essence a very small monitor. This time, when you take a picture, the camera is simply recording what is on the sensor at that moment in time. 

DSLRs use the same technology as their film counterparts, which have been around for decades. They’re very familiar for anybody who has been serious about photography in recent years. Legacy companies such as Canon, Nikon and Pentax have been making them for all those years and so have a lot of experience to draw from. 

Editor's notes

(Image credit: Nikon)

We've now officially heard from Nikon that it's ceased production on two of its most popular entry-level DSLRs, the Nikon D3500 and D5600. And while Canon hasn't yet made any similar statements about its DSLRs, it hasn't released a new one since the Canon EOS 90D in 2019. The only company that appears to be single-handedly carrying the torch for new DSLRs is Pentax, which launched the K-3 III in 2021. But in short, don't expect to see any new DSLRs launched from now on. Mirrorless is the future, but second-hand DSLRs continue to offer great value. 

These days, almost no new DSLRs are introduced to the market, but there’s still plenty you can buy. They tend to have great handling, offer fantastic image quality and one advantage that doesn’t look set to go away for a while yet – extremely impressive battery life.  

By taking away the mirror, mirrorless cameras give you several advantages (and very few disadvantages). The key one is that, since they don’t need that big clunky mirror setup, they can be smaller and lighter than their equivalent DSLR counterparts. 

Some of the tasks of the camera, like autofocusing, can take place on the sensor itself, leading to super-quick focusing speeds. Speaking of speed – with no mirror to move out of the way, frame rates aren’t limited so much by physicality. Mirrorless cameras routinely offer at least 10fps, with some high-end models delivering 20fps or 30fps at full resolution, with continuous autofocus between each shot. 

In the beginning, mirrorless cameras tended to use smaller sensors than DSLRs. But now, the most popular sensor size in these models is full-frame, with Sony, Nikon, Canon and Panasonic all producing this type of camera. APS-C is also a common sensor size, for both mirrorless and DSLR. All of this means that there’s no generally discernible difference between outright image quality in DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, no matter which you choose to go with.

The electronic viewfinders found on early mirrorless cameras weren’t particularly great, being low in resolution and slow. But over the years the technology has advanced so much that many photographers now prefer the super high-resolution viewfinders on the current crop of high-end mirrorless cameras. They show a truer reflection of what your final image will look like, as well as allowing you to see a preview of your image after you’ve shot it.

All of this makes it sound like mirrorless is the obvious winner – and while the fact that no new DSLRs have been announced in the past 12 months might seem to back that up, there are still some advantages of the older technology. 

We’ll discuss the main differences in the coming pages to help you come to a firm conclusion, so use the arrows at the top of this page navigate your way through them.

By taking away the mirror, mirrorless cameras give you several advantages (and very few disadvantages).

1.

Mirrorless vs DSLR: Size and weight

• DSLR: Traditionally, these were the bigger of the two. This isn't necessarily a negative, as it can help when shooting with big telephoto lenses (and big hands). These days though, mirrorless cameras can be just as large as DSLRs.
• Mirrorless: On the whole, mirrorless cameras are generally smaller and lighter than the average DSLR, making them ideal for travelling light and keeping the overall weight down. You'll find some pro mirrorless cameras break this 'rule' though.

When mirrorless cameras first entered the market, one of their big selling points was their small size. The first cameras of this kind to get really popular were Micro Four Thirds models, which traded on the idea that the overall system was much smaller and lighter than their DSLR equivalents.

As larger sensor sizes started to become popular, it no longer became a simple statement of fact that mirrorless meant 'smaller'. When you use an APS-C or a full-frame sensor, you might be able to get a small(ish) body, but the compatible lenses will likely be big and heavy. 

Some manufacturers have attempted to answer the problem with retractable or 'power-zoom' kit lenses, but as soon as you need to swap to a different type of lens, the problem appears again. 

• Sensor sizes explained: what you need to know

If size and weight is your main concern, the Panasonic G series and Olympus (now OM System) cameras have the advantage. They use the Four Thirds sensor format inside their Micro Four Thirds models, which are smaller than APS-C and full-frame sensors. 

There's an argument that their outright image quality can't match larger sensors – especially in some shooting scenarios such as low light – but the smaller sensor helps to deliver a much more compact system all round. And it's great for those who need high levels of zoom in a small package.

Some higher-end mirrorless cameras are actually very large, with some manufacturers responding to feedback from pros who say they'd prefer larger grips for better ergonomics. That even includes cameras like the Olympus OM-D E-M1X, which has a small sensor and a large body that incorporates two grips. 

Panasonic's introduction of its L Mount full-frame cameras, such as the Panasonic Lumix S1, are also very large, and are even bigger than some existing DSLRs.

Conversely, the final entry-level DSLRs shrank to compete with the smaller footprint of similarly priced mirrorless cameras. Nikon's D3500 and Canon's EOS Rebel T7 / 2000D are charmingly small and light, making them less of a burden to carry around.

2. Mirrorless vs DSLR: Lenses

• DSLR: There's a huge range of lenses available for DSLRs, as both Canon and Nikon have an optic to suit every job. Pentax also has a lot of bases covered, while options from third-party manufacturers also make for a comprehensive set of compatible options. 
• Mirrorless: Most bases are now covered, particular for older systems such as Sony, Fujifilm and Micro Four Thirds. Newer systems such as Canon's R and M mount, Nikon's Z mount, Fujifilm's GFX series have caught up and are expanding all the time. If you need something niche, you can often use DSLR lenses with a mirrorless camera via an adapter.

Technically speaking, if you want the widest possible choice of lenses, a Canon or Nikon DSLR will be your best bet. Each of these options has a huge range of lenses at a variety of price points, with third-party manufacturers such as Sigma and Tamron also providing options. 

DSLRs have the age advantage, with the lens format having been around for decades. But the options available for mirrorless cameras have caught up rapidly, and now there’s a diverse range of lenses to suit almost every need, with more new lenses being added as time goes on. It's really only those with very niche needs who are missing out by choosing mirrorless.

The longest established mirrorless system – although now falling in popularity – is Micro Four Thirds, used by Olympus and (some) Panasonic cameras. As such, this system offers the most all-encompassing range at the moment. 

Fujifilm’s X-series is also pretty comprehensive, having been around for a similar length of time. Its medium-format GFX series has fewer options, but is gaining ground as the years go by. Both offer a good set of zoom and prime lenses, and while there are still a few gaps here and there, they tend to be niche optics that the average consumer won’t be too bothered about being without. 

Sony’s APS-C and full-frame mirrorless cameras have been around for quite some time now. They share the same mount, so while there are lenses that are specifically designed for either APS-C or Full-Frame, being able to swap between the two is beneficial for those upgrading. There are some high-end optics which are matched perfectly to models such as the Sony A7 IV, including specialist optics like the Sony FE 600mm f/4 GM OSS telephoto prime lens. 

Canon officially has two lines of mirrorless cameras – APS-C and full-frame – but the arrival of the Canon EOS R7 and some new RF-S lenses shows that it's effectively now moving to that single RF-mount. If you are an existing Canon DSLR owner, you can also use mount adapters on its mirrorless systems, giving you the option to only replace lenses as and when its necessary, rather than all in one go. 

Right now, there’s a healthy range of lenses for EF-M and RF mounts, but there are still some significant gaps to be filled. The arrival of new RF-S lenses (for APS-C cameras) almost certainly puts an end to Canon's EF-M range, although it remains a good-value option. We're hoping to see a lot more RF-S lenses arrive to make cameras like the EOS R7 and EOS R10 more attractive.

Nikon also uses the same mount across both its APS-C and full-frame mirrorless systems. The Z-mount is different from the F-mount used by Nikon DSLRs, but if you already have some lenses, you can use an adapter to bring those across. It’s a pretty seamless transition and helps to fill in any gaps in the line-up while we’re waiting for Nikon to expand its mirrorless lens range. At the time of the system's launch, there were only a handful of Z-mount lenses, but there’s a good degree of choice now.

Another fairly recent introduction is the L-mount alliance, which is a joint venture between Panasonic, Sigma and Leica. These three companies are developing products that can be used in conjunction with each other, giving buyers the advantage of triple the range – and triple the development power. There’s already a good range of lenses available for L Mount, with more appearing regularly.

3. Mirrorless vs DSLR: Viewfinders

• DSLR: Some photographers, particularly sports shooters, still prefer an 'optical' view for its clarity, natural look and lag-free viewing. These are standard on DSLRs.
• Mirrorless: Early electronic viewfinders were low in quality, but recently the tech has improved so much that it's actually a preferable way of shooting for many. You'll get a real-time view of the scene you're shooting, along with vital information displayed easily. 

All DSLRs, even the cheapest, come with an optical viewfinder, because it's an integral part of the DSLR design. Although it's relatively rare in current line-ups, some entry-level mirrorless cameras, on the other hand, don't have viewfinders at all. This means your only option is to compose photos via the rear LCD, which is a boon for portability, but doesn't always work so well in bright sunlight.

Mirrorless cameras use electronic rather than optical viewfinders. That means they display the image directly from the sensor readout and not via an optical mirror/pentaprism system.

Electronic viewfinders are advancing at a fast pace, and the latest rarely show any graininess that was an issue in earlier generations, while the visible lag that was once common has all but been eradicated.

The advantage of electronic viewfinders is that they can display a lot more information than an optical viewfinder, including live image histograms, for example. They can also simulate the digital image the camera will capture, so you don't get any horrible surprises when you review your image, as it's exactly what you're seeing.

This simulation is not always perfect, however, and many photographers prefer to see the world with their own eyes as they compose the image, then check the digital version on the LCD once it's been captured. Optical viewfinders are also easier to use in low light.

This will come down to personal preference; get one of the latest high-end mirrorless cameras with a large magnification, large resolution electronic viewfinder, and you'll be hard pressed to find fault with it. The Sony A7S III is an example of a simply stunning electronic viewfinder, offering superb clarity. And this is increasingly becoming standard on the latest mirrorless cameras.

4. Mirrorless vs DSLR: Autofocus

• DSLR: Used to have a clear autofocus advantage, but no longer. Some DSLR systems are better for moving subjects, but it's not straightforward.
• Mirrorless: While entry-level models may struggle, many mirrorless cameras now have hybrid contrast- and phase-detect AF systems, which fare much better. Several systems are as reliable as those on DSLRs, if not more so.

Professionals who wanted the very fastest autofocusing used to head straight for DSLRs. But these days, with fantastic advances made in mirrorless technology, it’s very often the newer type of camera that has the advantage – especially if you go for premium mirrorless options. 

High-end DSLRs haven’t been updated in some time, but models such as the Nikon D850 and Canon EOS-1D X Mark III still offer sophisticated systems. They use fast and efficient ‘phase-detection’ autofocus modules which are mounted below the mirror in the camera’s bodies. 

However, DSLR systems are limited by the fact that their autofocus only works while the mirror is down. This means that fast frame rates are difficult to achieve, since this needs to be moved out of the way each time. You could switch to using Live View, but that means the regular AF module is no longer in the light path and a slower contrast-detect AF system is used.

Some slightly newer DSLR models, such as the Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / EOS 250D and Canon EOS 6D Mark II have included Dual Pixel CMOS A, which uses phase-detection pixels built into the sensor. This gives faster autofocus in Live View, and while it helps to close the gap on mirrorless cameras, we’re now seeing such incredible systems from several manufacturers that mirrorless definitely now has the edge. 

Since there’s no mirror, these types of cameras use sensor-based autofocus all the time. Many are contrast-based AF, but they tend to be faster than the equivalent AF modes on DSLRs. More mirrorless models are now using advanced hybrid AF systems, which combine contrast-detect with phase-detect AF from the sensor to deliver exceptional performance. 

They impress not only with their speed, but also accuracy when it comes to tracking a moving subject. Both the Canon EOS R5 and the Canon EOS R6 are two recent introductions that offer almost unerring accuracy when tracking a subject, while Sony models such as the Sony A7 IV also put in an excellent performance, using “Real-Time AF” tracking to closely follow your subject with just a simple half-press of the shutter button. It’s almost too easy. Super high-end models such as the Sony A9 II and the very recently announced Sony A1 are fantastic options for sports and action photographers who simply can’t afford to miss a shot. 

Another advantage that many mirrorless cameras offer is eye- and face- detection which makes photographing people (and animals) even more accurate. All of the major mirrorless brands offer Face/Eye detection, helping you to get sharp shots almost without fail – it’s something you might need to activate from the main menu rather than it being used by default, though.

5. Mirrorless vs DSLR: Continuous shooting

• DSLR: The best DSLRs can no longer match the speeds of the best mirrorless cameras
• Mirrorless: The mirrorless design makes it easier to add high-speed shooting and even cheaper models have relatively fast burst speeds

You need a fast continuous shooting mode to capture action shots, and mirrorless cameras are streaking ahead here. This is partly because the mirrorless system has fewer moving parts, but also because many models are now pushing ahead into 4K or even 8K video – this demands serious processing power, which helps with continuous shooting too.

To put this in perspective, Canon's top professional DSLR, the Canon EOS-1D X Mark III, can shoot at 16 frames per second when using the viewfinder, but mirrorless cameras like the Panasonic Lumix G9 and Sony Alpha A9 II can both shoot at a staggering 20fps. The new Sony A1, meanwhile, has raised the bar again with 30fps continuous shooting with autofocus, an impressive achievement.

You have to be a little careful, though, when looking at the specs. Some mirrorless cameras will boast even higher frame rates than this (in some cases, up to 60fps), but will have to use an electronic shutter to achieve this and focus will be fixed from the first shot. This isn't great if you're planning to track a moving subject, or shoot under some types of artificial light, where banding can occur without the use of a mechanical shutter.

You've also got to be realistic about what kind of burst shooting speeds you are going to need; shooting at 60fps means you'll fill up a memory card pretty quickly, and you'll have to spend a lot of time trudging through a multitude of images to find that 'one' shot. That said, with even entry-level mirrorless cameras offering faster burst shooting speeds than most DSLRs, mirrorless cameras certainly have the edge if this is your priority.

6. Mirrorless vs DSLR: Video

• DSLR: Once massively popular with pros, but have long been overtaken by mirrorless rivals.
• Mirrorless: 4K video is now standard on all but the cheapest mirrorless cameras, with some now starting to offer 6K/8K.

DSLRs were well ahead of mirrorless cameras when it came to offering professional HD and Full HD video capture. Their vast range of lenses and other accessories made them a hit with pro video makers – the Canon EOS 5D Mk II, in particular, changed the game by shooting video from a full-sized sensor, for far less money than many pro cameras.  

But the shift has certainly been towards mirrorless cameras favor in recent years, offering a wealth of video features that most DSLRs can't match.

4K capture is a more common feature for starters on mirrorless cameras, while DSLRs have been slow to offer this functionality. With relatively few new DSLRs appearing in recent months, there's not too many to choose from if you need this kind of video. For entry-level models that do offer it – such as the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / EOS 850D – a heavy crop is applied, which is pretty limiting in many situations.

There's also the efficient live view autofocus and processing power offered by mirrorless cameras, while the growing range of adapters and accessories out there offer video shooters a more complete system.

The Sony A7S III is currently our pick for the title of best 4K camera. It offers stunning video quality, and though it’s less well-suited for stills than some other models, for those whose main concern is movie capture it’s simply the best you can buy right now.  

That said, we're also now starting to see even higher resolution options come to the market. One of the Canon EOS R5's headline features is its ability to record 8K video, albeit with some limitations. We expect this to become the norm over the coming years as the technology develops and becomes more commonplace.

Panasonic has carved out a niche for itself with the Panasonic Lumix GH6 and Panasonic GH5 Mark II, offering a hybrid stills/video camera that's loved by enthusiast photographers and professional cinematographers.

Also from Panasonic is its full-frame Panasonic Lumix S1H camera, one of its full-frame L-Mount Alliance models. We've been told that this has vastly outsold the more stills-oriented S1/S1R models due to its fantastic video credentials, giving you an idea of just how important video is to the company – and mirrorless camera fans.

7. Mirrorless vs DSLR: features

• DSLR: Even entry-level models have full manual controls, and DSLRs are powerful cameras
• Mirrorless: They match DSLRs feature for feature, often going a step or two further

In the past, it was hard to split DSLRs and mirrorless cameras on their feature sets. But these days, with more money and time being thrown at the development at mirrorless cameras, the latter are now the clear winners.

Both DSLRs and mirrorless cameras offer full manual control over exposure and give you the opportunity to shoot both raw files and JPEGs. Image quality between the two is pretty much identical, aside from the newer sensors found in mirrorless bodies. In any one sector, such as entry-level cameras, enthusiast or pro models, the control layouts and capabilities are pretty similar, too. Entry-level DSLRs tend to hide away the manual controls under a layer of automation, but it's the same for mirrorless cameras.

While the feature set of high-end DSLR cameras is generally pretty impressive, it's fair to say that the average mirrorless camera now beats the average DSLR on specs. Most mirrorless cameras offer advanced IBIS (in-body image stabilization systems), advanced autofocus technologies such as tracking and eye-detection, 4K video as standard and more besides.

Processing power is at its height in mirrorless cameras – again, by virtue of them being newer. These high-end processors facilitate some of the more impressive features, including high ISOs, fast shooting speeds and 4K video at faster frame rates.

The fastest autofocusing, as well as the most comprehensive spread of points across the sensor, is now with mirrorless cameras, while super-fast frame rates of up to 30fps are only really possible thanks to the lack of a mirror. 

Most mirrorless cameras offer articulating or tilting touch-sensitive screens, and although there are several DSLRs which offer the same, you'll now see the best screen technology (and menu systems) on mirrorless cameras. Optical viewfinders were often the preference, but with dramatic advances in EVF technology over the past few years, many people have now switched to electronic 'finders.

8. Mirrorless vs DSLR: image quality

• DSLR: DSLRs use APS-C or full-frame sensors.
• Mirrorless: The cameras typically use the same sensors, but there are also smaller formats for even smaller cameras. There are also some medium format mirrorless options, too.

There's nothing to choose here, either. Currently, the highest resolution can be found in a mirrorless camera, the medium format Fujifilm GFX100S, which has a 102MP sensor. Admittedly, that's not a camera many people can afford, although the cheaper Sony A7R IV mirrorless camera manages 61MP – still a good 11MP more than the closest DSLR, the Canon EOS 5DS and 5DS R.

It's not just about megapixels, though, because the main factor in image quality is sensor size. With the exception of medium format sensors, full-frame sensors are the biggest and offer the best quality in low light, while cameras with APS-C sensors are competitive on image quality and much cheaper – you can get either of these sensor sizes in both DSLRs and mirrorless cameras.

But the compact system camera market offers smaller formats too. The Micro Four Thirds format used by Panasonic G series and Olympus is smaller than APS-C, but so are the cameras and lenses, so you need to weigh up what's most important to you – size or ultimate image quality.

Overall, then, there's no intrinsic image quality advantage in a DSLR, given that the same sensor sizes are available in mirrorless cameras, too.

9. Mirrorless vs DSLR: battery life

• DSLR: 600-800 shots is average, better models can shoot over 1,000 shots on a charge. Pro DSLRs may offer 2000+ shots per charge
• Mirrorless: Much weaker, typically around 300-400 shots per charge. Some manage around 600 or 700, although those with a higher battery life will often have either very large batteries or require two

Battery life comparisons might not be exciting, but they are important when the differences are as great as this. 

The very affordable Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / EOS 250D DSLR, for example, can take 1,070 shots on a single charge, while the Fujifilm X-T4 mirrorless camera, a much more advanced model, can only shoot 500 photos before the battery expires. This pattern is repeated across the range of DSLRs and mirrorless cameras.

Why's this? DSLR batteries are sometimes larger, though not always, and you might have thought that driving the mirror up and down for each shot would consume more power, and that that LCD display would be used just as much. However, mirrorless cameras also have to power an EVF in most cases as well, and this is why they still have much shorter battery lives.

So, this is one area where DSLRs do often have a substantial practical advantage. If you're somebody that likes to shoot a lot in any given day, then you'll almost certainly need to invest in a second battery, or look for a mirrorless model that offers USB charging, so you can use a power bank while on the go. That isn't too difficult these days, though – most recent mirrorless cameras offer in-camera USB charging.

10. Mirrorless vs DSLR: price

• DSLR: The cheapest DSLRs may miss out on some feature like touchscreens and 4K video 
• Mirrorless: Cheap mirrorless cameras often have these features but don't have viewfinders; those that do cost more than equivalent DSLRs.

You might hope that the simpler design of a compact system camera would make them cheaper to buy, but that's not necessarily the case. If you want a fully-featured, 'proper' camera with a viewfinder for the least money, then a DSLR is still the cheapest option – but it's getting a lot closer between the two.

For example, the 24MP Nikon D3500 DSLR has a great APS-C sensor, an optical viewfinder (of course), decent manual controls and a staggering 1,550-shot battery life.

Its nearest rivals on price include models such as the Sony Alpha A6000, which packs in an almost identical 24MP APS-C sensor and features a built-in electronic viewfinder. That said, it's only that cheap because it's been superseded.

Once you get into enthusiast and pro market, however, the differences largely disappear – for any given amount of money you get broadly the same features, performance and power.

Mirrorless vs DSLR: the verdict

• DSLR: Sturdy, good-value cameras that offer impressive handling. long battery lives and top image quality.
• Mirrorless: Technically more advanced, often smaller and lighter, and definitely the way forward.

In times gone by it was harder to give a definitive answer in the mirrorless vs DSLR debate. But these days it's getting more difficult to argue the case for the DSLR. With more and more mirrorless models coming onto the market – and fewer and fewer DSLRs – it's become increasingly clear which way the future lies.

Mirrorless cameras give you the advantage in many different scenarios. They are generally lighter and smaller their DSLR equivalents – often with smaller and lighter lenses to match, too. They bring a comprehensive, modern feature set, such as superlative AF tracking performance, 4K video recording and IBIS, where DSLRs are now starting to fall behind.

That said, there's still something to be said for DSLRs – and there's still some life in the old dog yet. On the whole, because they're older and lack EVFs, they tend to be a cheaper proposition than mirrorless cameras, and you can pick up some great bargains.  

The trade-off is that you might not get the latest tech, but not every photographer needs it. DSLRs also give you a more comprehensive lens range, too. Battery life for mirrorless cameras is still some way behind DSLRs and, while it is improving, nothing yet quite matches what a DSLR is capable of in that respect.

The ergonomics of both high-end DSLRs and high-end mirrorless cameras are fantastic, but it's arguable that cheaper mirrorless cameras aren't quite as pleasurable to use as cheaper DSLRs. This is, though, often down to personal choice and shooting preferences. There's now less to choose between optical and electronic viewfinders, with the latest iterations now being so good that many often prefer them.

If you're already invested in the DSLR system – or perhaps you really do have a strong craving for their shooting style – there's still a little bit of life left in them. We won't write them off completely just yet, but it seems relatively unlikely we'll be seeing many new releases from here. Nikon has already said as much, and other manufacturers like Canon are likely to follow suit.

All in all, it's safe to say that if you're coming to a 'real' camera for the first time, it makes more sense to choose mirrorless now. It's clear that every manufacturer will be pursuing advances in this area much harder than DSLRs, which will be consigned to the history books over the next decade. 

Right now, there's never been more choice – but for most photographers, mirrorless makes the most sense.

Phil Hall is an experienced writer and editor having worked on some of the largest photography magazines in the UK, and now edit the photography channel of TechRadar, the UK's biggest tech website and one of the largest in the world. He has also worked on numerous commercial projects, including working with manufacturers like Nikon and Fujifilm on bespoke printed and online camera guides, as well as writing technique blogs and copy for the John Lewis Technology guide.

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Best Entry-Level DSLRs of 2023, Ranked

Over the years of working for Photography Life, I’ve had the chance to test almost every entry-level DSLR out there and review which ones are the best. Today, I’d like to circle back and rank these cameras for photographers who are trying to decide on a DSLR, either for yourself or as a gift. Hopefully, this list gives you a good idea of which camera will be right for you.

2023 Update: Since this article was first published, almost every camera on the list below has changed in price, some more than others. I’ve updated the rankings below accordingly. For a quick comparison, scroll down to the section called “Complete Table” to see all the specs and prices of these cameras in an easy-to-compare table format.

DSLRs Versus Mirrorless Cameras

The list below is only for DSLR cameras. You may have heard that these days, most camera companies are paying attention to their mirrorless lineups more than DSLRs. And even though that’s true, a DSLR may still be the right choice for you.

Simply put, the biggest difference between DSLRs and mirrorless cameras is the viewfinder. DSLRs have an optical “through the lens” viewfinder due to the internal mirror that reflects light into the viewfinder area. Mirrorless cameras either have an electronic viewfinder (basically a tiny LCD) or no viewfinder at all.

Mirrorless cameras are usually lighter and smaller than DSLRs because it saves some space to remove the mirror and optical viewfinder. Mirrorless cameras are also getting more and more advanced as time goes by, while most companies are no longer making DSLRs.

Yet a DSLR remains a great choice even in 2023 for two reasons. First, DSLRs are selling for simply amazing prices, especially on the used market. Second, DSLRs have more native lens options than most mirrorless cameras. Lenses are arguably even more important than the camera itself, so a DSLR paired with a good lens is arguably the best deal for camera equipment you’ll find today. See more in our broader DSLR vs Mirrorless article.

What Counts as an Entry-Level DSLR?

My first DSLR was the Nikon D5100, which is almost the definition of entry-level. But when I heard people actually call it entry-level, I was taken aback. It was a good camera! I had saved money and spent a lot of hours researching which one to buy, but professional photographers nonetheless dismissed it as “consumer” or “amateur.” The few times I heard people call the D5100 a prosumer camera, I nodded in agreement. And prosumer is a ridiculous word.

Nikon D5100 + 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 @ 32mm, ISO 100, 6 seconds, f/22.0

That’s my way of saying that the cameras on this list are still really good, even though the title of the article says “entry-level.” The category of the camera doesn’t determine the category of the photographer. Besides, I stretched the definition a bit just because I wanted to do a great top-10 list and needed to reach the quota. Other than a few older or obsolete DSLRs that are still sold new for some reason, this guide includes every current entry-level DSLR on the market; it’s the most comprehensive list you’ll find anywhere today.

In total, I’ve ranked six DSLRs from Canon, two from Nikon, and two from Pentax. The overwhelming number of Canon cameras is simply because Canon’s lineup has more entry-level DSLRs. It’s not a sign of Canon favoritism (and you might notice that the bottom spot belongs to Canon, whoops). In fact, one camera from each manufacturer makes it to the top three. I didn’t plan that ahead of time, but it’s a pretty nice sign that each company is competitive in this space.

Last, I have to mention my (somewhat boring) takeaway after testing several entry-level cameras last year: They’re all very similar in quality, without any real duds among them. The difference between the best and worst cameras on the list below is surprisingly small. Your individual needs – say, a desire to shoot video more than stills – could shift where each camera falls for you, perhaps significantly.

Don’t Buy the Bundle

Before jumping into the rankings below, take just a moment to heed a quick warning: Don’t buy that all-purpose photography bundle!

Most of the cameras in this article, due to their price range, are targeted largely at first-time DSLR buyers. As a result, you can buy most of them as a bundle with lots of extra photography accessories. This sounds good since it saves you some effort buying accessories separately – but the equipment included in these bundles is often quite overpriced.

Here’s just one example. Right now, on Amazon, you can buy the Nikon D3500 with a kit lens for $560. Or, for $660, you can add two 32 GB memory cards, a remote shutter release, a bag, a flash, a filter kit, and two converters to turn the lens into a wider angle and a tighter telephoto. That sounds like quite a deal, right? But it’s actually very overpriced.

In practice, the only useful accessories in that bundle are the memory cards and the remote shutter release (and maybe the bag). The filters are going to be low in quality, and as we’ve shown before, a bad filter clearly harms the sharpness and flare performance of your camera system. The wide-angle and telephoto converters are just novelties; your image quality generally will be terrible when using either of them. And the flash isn’t automatic, just a cheap manual one.

Instead, you can buy two better 32 GB memory cards for $9 apiece, a generic AmazonBasics remote for $11 (the other one is generic anyway), and a simple bag.

This isn’t to say all photography bundles are low quality, but that it’s easy to get a bad one if you’re just starting out and don’t know any better. When in doubt, don’t buy the bundle, and get all the accessories you need separately instead.

Now that you know the basics, here’s the list of the top 10 entry-level DSLRs available today, ranked from worst to best:

10. Canon Rebel T6 / EOS 1300D

One of the few DSLRs on this list that I wouldn’t recommend is the Canon Rebel T6 (also known as the Canon EOS 1300D). That’s simply because it sells for $450 with a kit lens – a good price, but basically the same as the newer T7! Although the two are practically identical cameras, the T7 has a 24-megapixel sensor rather than 18 megapixels on this T6. So, I don’t really see why anyone would buy the T6 kit at its current price, aside from being confused by Canon’s sprawling DSLR lineup. These days, the T6 is rarely found for sale new anyway, and you’d have to look on the used market.

However, speaking of buying used, you can sometimes find a good deal on the T6 camera if you look on eBay or used equipment forums. At a low enough price, any camera is a good deal, and that applies to the Rebel T6! On eBay, it’s selling for around $250 at the moment, lens included, which is a good price for what you get.

(There is also a relatively similar camera known as the 4000D – or 3000D in some markets – which is not generally sold in the US, but retails for potentially even less at $340 or so.)

9. Pentax KF

The 24-megapixel Pentax KF is the newest DSLR on this list, announced in late 2022. It’s positioned just at the edge of entry-level. The KF also has the highest-end control layout of all ten cameras here. You get two separate dials to change camera settings, which is in line with most $3000+ professional cameras.

So, why is this camera only at position number nine? It all has to do with value. The Pentax KF is $950 with an 18-55mm kit lens, making it double the cost of some other cameras on this list. The autofocus system has a pedestrian 11 points. Arguably, many of the less expensive cameras in this list have more advanced feature sets in some important ways.

However, landscape photographers may be interested in the KF. It’s the only camera here to have a pixel-shift technology that allows capture of full color information at each pixel, if you’re photographing nonmoving subjects. That may sound technical, but the end result is that you can get more detailed images out of the KF than anything else on this list, equal to at least 48 megapixel shots taken the normal way.

Even so, I’d still look at other cameras on this list before considering the KF. Not to mention that because this camera is so new, you won’t find any good deals on the used market for it just yet.

8. Canon Rebel T7 / EOS 2000D

The Canon T7 isn’t a super old camera, but its specifications feel outdated. The camera has 24 megapixels, 3 frames per second shooting, and a 9-point autofocus system. It doesn’t have a touchscreen or a tilt-flip screen for taking pictures at tricky angles. The good news is that it sells for just $480 including a kit lens, and sometimes goes on sale for less. Because many camera companies have been raising their prices of entry-level DSLRs, this makes the T7 one of the best values on this list.

Canon has two different varieties of their 24-megapixel APS-C sensor (with “APS-C” meaning that the sensor measures 22.2 millimeters in width). The Rebel T7 has the older type of sensor. So, you won’t get quite the level of image quality as with the newest APS-C Canon cameras – and we’ve found that even those lag behind Nikon’s sensors in low light. Nevertheless, this is still a high-quality camera sensor, capable of detailed photos in both daytime and nighttime conditions. In fact, every DSLR on this list has very good image quality, and the differences are mainly visible under exaggerated conditions.

Here’s a quick table comparing Canon’s popular entry-level cameras, including the T7:

	T6 / 1300D	T7 / 2000D / 1500D	T6i / 750D	T7i / 800D	T8i / 850D	SL3 / 200D
Announcement Date	March 2016	February 2018	February 2015	February 2017	February 2020	June 2017
Megapixels	18	24	24	24	24	24
Autofocus Points	9	9	19	45	45	9
Continuous Shooting	3 fps	3 fps	5 fps	6 fps	7 fps	5 fps
LCD Tilt-Flip Capability	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Dual Pixel AF	No	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
4K Video	No	No	No	No	Yes	Yes
Battery Life	500 photos	500 photos	440 photos	600 photos	800 photos	1070 photos
Weight (with battery and card)	485 g	475 g	555 g	532 g	515 g	449 g
Price (when sold new, with 18-55mm kit lens)	$450	$480	$650	$860	$900	$750

7.

Canon Rebel T6i / 750D

One solid value in Canon’s lineup of entry-level DSLRs today is the Rebel T6i / EOS 750D, released in February 2015. Perhaps because of this camera’s age, Canon has been putting some decent discounts on the T6i, which now sells for just $650 with a kit lens (although Canon replaced most of its inventory with the newer T7i and T8i, so you’ll probably need to buy it used).

This camera ticks a lot of the right boxes: a 24-megapixel sensor (though the older one), 19 autofocus points, 5 FPS shooting, and a tilt-flip touchscreen. The T6i does not have dual pixel AF, however, which does harm its prospects for video. And keep in mind that the 24-megapixel sensor is Canon’s older version, which doesn’t perform quite as well as its competition in low light (including the Nikon and Pentax cameras on this list, plus the newer Canons).

However, the T6i falls behind the Canon Rebel SL3, T7i, and T8i, all of which I’ve ranked higher than it. Those cameras all have the newer 24-megapixel sensor, and they’re lighter, more advanced cameras in other ways as well. The difference comes down to price, and to me, the price savings of the T6i aren’t enough to justify its weaker features.

There is also a version of the T6i with a slightly more advanced layout called the Canon T6s. It has two dials and a top LCD but otherwise is identical to the T6i. However, it’s hard to find and usually sells for inflated prices. I don’t think it’s worth considering unless you find a deal that brings it within $50 of the T6i in price, including a lens.

6. Canon Rebel T7i / EOS 800D

Every camera from here on out is what I’d consider a good buy for the typical consumer. Even though the Canon Rebel T7i / EOS 80D ranks sixth, it’s one of the most balanced cameras on the market and offers some pretty impressive features.

For example, the T7i builds on the T6i with 45 autofocus points, dual pixel AF, and the newer 24-megapixel sensor. However, it’s no longer sold new now that Canon released the T8i, at least in most markets. When it was available new, it sold for a rather high $860.

Before you settle on this camera, take a look at the Canon Rebel SL3. It’s a less expensive camera (both new and used) but it matches or exceeds many of the T7i’s specifications. You may also want to consider the $800 Nikon D5600, which is very similar to the T7i, but weighs less and has better battery life.

That said, if you find a good deal on the T7i or its specifications seem perfect for you, go for it. This camera is a pleasure to use – one of my favorites from my years of testing – with a great LCD and an excellent kit lens. I just think that for the money, you can find something with slightly better features.

Canon EOS Rebel T7i + EF-S18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM @ 31mm, ISO 100, 1/100, f/5.0

5. Canon T8i

The Canon T8i, released in early 2020, is an advanced camera in many ways. It includes almost all of Canon’s newest bells and whistles. However, it costs $900 with a kit lens, making it one of the most expensive cameras on this list.

The T8i sports an excellent 45-point autofocus system in the viewfinder, and it has a tilt-flip touchscreen. Perhaps even more important is that the T8i includes Canon’s famous “dual pixel autofocus” to focus quickly and accurately via the rear LCD screen. Most DSLRs are only fast at focusing through the viewfinder, so this is a nice feature.

Beyond that, the Canon Rebel T8i has Canon’s newest 24-megapixel sensor for excellent quality images, and it shoots in 4K video. (Among the other cameras on this list, only the Canon Rebel SL3 also has 4K.) Compared to the prior Canon T7i, it shoots 7 FPS instead of 6 FPS shooting and has somewhat better battery life (800 versus 600 shots).

Unfortunately, the $900 price is a steep asking point. You wouldn’t lose much by going with a camera like the Canon T7i, Nikon D5600, or Pentax K-70 if you’re trying to save some money. Yes, the T8i is more advanced than those cameras, but not drastically so. At least consider the less expensive options before you make the leap.

4. Nikon D3500

Nikon’s D3000 lineup is arguably the best value for a DSLR today, and the D3500 is an excellent continuation of the previous versions (see my review). This is often the first DSLR I recommend to my friends who want a new camera.

The bad news is that Nikon is slowly phasing out their DSLR lineup, so you probably won’t be able to find the D3500 on the new market. You’ll need to buy used. If that doesn’t bother you, wait patiently, and you’ll find it on eBay for about $350 with the 18-55mm kit lens.

What’s more, the D3500’s 24-megapixel camera sensor is excellent – the same as on the D5600, which is perhaps the best APS-C sensor on the market today. If the image quality is all you care about, the D3500 is equal to or better than every other camera on this list – not a small feat considering its low price. Only the Pentax KF could beat it, if you happen to be shooting a nonmoving subject that allows the KF to use pixel shift.

Given all that, why didn’t I rank the D3500 even higher? A few things. First, although the D3500’s image sensor is fantastic, cameras are about more than just a sensor. Other factors like ease of use, autofocus system, screen quality, and so on, also play a role. These are all areas where the D3500 sometimes falls behind the competition.

To start, the camera’s LCD does not tilt or flip at all, and it’s not a touchscreen. Video shooters especially will want to look at something like the Nikon D5600 or Canon SL3 instead, which fixes those problems. The D3500’s autofocus system also has pretty low specifications with 11 autofocus points, although it surprised me in practice with how accurate it was.

If budget is your main concern, I wouldn’t necessarily get the newest version of this camera. The D3500 isn’t all that different from the D3200 that launched way back in April 2012, let alone the D3300 and D3400. All of the older versions sell for very good prices on the used market. Here’s a table showing the progress of all of Nikon’s D3000 series DSLRs since the Nikon D3100:

	Nikon D3100	Nikon D3200	Nikon D3300	Nikon D3400	Nikon D3500
Announced	August 2010	April 2012	January 2014	August 2016	August 2018
Megapixels	14. 2	24	24	24	24
Autofocus Points	11	11	11	11	11
Max Frame Rate (Stills)	3 fps	4 fps	5 fps	5 fps	5 fps
Viewfinder Magnification	0.8×	0.8×	0.85×	0.85×	0.85×
LCD Screen	230,000 dots	921,000 dots	921,000 dots	921,000 dots	921,000 dots
ISO Sensitivity	100-12,800	100-12,800	100-25,600	100-25,600	100-25,600
Max Video Frame Rate at 1920 × 1080	24 fps	30 fps	60 fps	60 fps	60 fps
Bluetooth	No	No	No	Yes, which lets you use SnapBridge	Yes, which lets you use SnapBridge
Remote Shooting	With IR remote	With IR remote	With IR remote	With IR remote	With your phone via SnapBridge
GPS	Yes, with GP-1 or GP-1A	Yes, with GP-1 or GP-1A	Yes, with GP-1A	Yes, with SnapBridge	Yes, with SnapBridge
Battery Life	550 shots	540 shots	700 shots	1200 shots	1550 shots
Weight (Body Only)	16. 0 oz / 455 g	16.0 oz / 455 g	14.5 oz / 410 g	13.9 oz / 395 g	12.9 oz / 365 g
Dimensions	124.5 × 96.5 × 73.7 mm	127 × 97 × 79 mm	124.5 × 99.1 × 76.2 mm	124 × 98 × 75.5 mm	124 × 97 × 70 mm

NIKON D3500 + 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6 @ 52mm, ISO 100, 1.3 seconds, f/6.3NIKON D3500 + 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6 @ 50mm, ISO 100, 1/500, f/5.6NIKON D3500 + 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6 @ 105mm, ISO 100, 1/1, f/5.6

3. Nikon D5600

Next up is the Nikon D5600, which is one of the best entry-level DSLRs available today. When I reviewed the D5600, I wrote: “in many ways, it is the perfect option for people who just want an advanced camera that gets out of their way.”

So, why didn’t I rank it number one? For a long time, I did; you’ll see plenty of references to that in the comments section below. But recently, Nikon decided to boost the D5600’s price (with a kit lens) from a brilliant $550 to a less exciting $800. It’s now more in line with other entry-level DSLRs in price.

That said, the D5600 is a great camera. Having tested it side-by-side against Canon’s 45-point AF system on the T7i and T8i, I found that the D5600’s 39-point autofocus system worked better. The Canon T8i shoots 7 FPS rather than the 5 FPS on this camera – but the D5600’s better autofocus means it’s still the slightly better camera for action photography. Beyond that, the two cameras are quite similar, but the D5600 weighs less (465 vs 515 grams) and has a better battery life (970 vs 800 photos).

So, if you’re looking for the best autofocus system on this list, arguably the best camera sensor, a great lineup of native lenses, a tilt-flip touchscreen, and a lightweight kit overall, the D5600 is an excellent choice. The only issue is the price; at $550, it was a no-brainer and clearly the #1 camera on this list, while at $800, it’s harder to justify. That said, I recommend checking the current price both at B&H and at Amazon. If you find it even slightly on sale, it’s probably my #1 recommendation. (I update this article any time that I notice a price change, but Nikon, Canon, and Pentax put these cameras on sale all the time.)

If you want to save money, you can always buy an older model from the Nikon D5600 lineup, many of which are available used or refurbished for a great price. In fact, that’s my top recommendation of this entire article: Get an older D5000-series camera if you find a good deal, even if it’s refurbished or used.

Here’s a quick table showing the differences between the D5600 and the prior versions. Even back to the D5200, this is a great lineup of cameras, and all of them are worth considering today if you want to save some money. The differences between them are not very big, to be frank:

Camera Feature	Nikon D5200	Nikon D5300	Nikon D5500	Nikon D5600
Announced	November 2012	October 2013	January 2015	November 2016
Sensor Resolution	24 Megapixels	24 Megapixels	24 Megapixels	24 Megapixels
AA Filter	Yes	No	No	No
Image Processor	EXPEED 3	EXPEED 4	EXPEED 4	EXPEED 4
Autofocus	39-point Multi-CAM 4800DX	39-point Multi-CAM 4800DX	39-point Multi-CAM 4800DX	39-point Multi-CAM 4800DX
Frame Rate	5 FPS	5 FPS	5 FPS	5 FPS
LCD Size	3″ Diagonal	3. 2″ Diagonal	3.2″ Diagonal	3.2″ Diagonal
LCD Resolution	921,000 dots	1,036,800 dots	1,036,800 dots	1,036,800 dots
Built-in GPS	No	Yes	No	No, but can use your phone’s GPS data via SnapBridge
Built-in WiFi	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Built-in Bluetooth	No	No	No	Yes
SnapBridge	No	No	No	Yes
Max Video Frame Rate	60i	60p	60p	60p
Touchscreen	No	No	Yes	Yes
Battery Life	500	600	820	970
Weight (with battery and card)	555 g (1.22 lbs)	530 g (1.17 lbs)	470 g (1.04 lbs)	465 g (1.03 lbs)
Dimensions	129 × 98 × 78mm	125 × 98 × 76mm	124 × 97 × 70mm	124 × 97 × 70mm

NIKON D5600 + 18-55mm f/3. 5-5.6 @ 55mm, ISO 100, 1/100, f/8.0NIKON D5600 + 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 @ 20mm, ISO 400, 1/320, f/8.0NIKON D5600 + 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 @ 34mm, ISO 200, 1/50, f/8.0NIKON D5600 + 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 @ 18mm, ISO 100, 1/200, f/8.0

2. Pentax K-70

If you want a combination of top build quality, advanced controls, and a tilt-flip screen, look no further than the Pentax K-70.

This is an excellent and overlooked camera for beginners, and it’s a good value at $750 (check current price, as it often goes on sale for $650). With a 24 megapixel sensor, 11 viewfinder autofocus points, and 6 FPS shooting, the K-70 is a highly capable camera with few downsides. It even has “hybrid AF” in live view, similar to Canon’s dual pixel AF and great for video shooters.

Any issues with the K-70 depend upon your personal requirements, including how much you’re willing to invest in a smaller DSLR company. Canon and Nikon are certainly more established names in the camera business, with a larger camera and lens lineup should you wish to upgrade in the future. That said, Pentax does also make some full-frame DSLRs, so you do have an upgrade path if you pick this camera.

The nearest competitors to the K-70 are the Canon T7i and Nikon D5600. All of these cameras are priced within $100 of each other and have very similar specifications. To me, though, the K-70’s more rugged build quality and better handling – especially the second control dial – are more valuable than the lighter weight and better autofocus of the Nikon and Canon. But not all photographers will agree; in fact, I’m probably in the minority there.

Still, for photographers who put a priority on build quality and an advanced control layout – say, landscape photographers who know they’ll be shooting in bad weather – the Pentax very well could be the top camera for you. Although 11 autofocus points isn’t much, everything else about the camera is hard to beat and worth the price. If you find it on sale for $650, it could be my top recommendation of the group.

1. Canon Rebel SL3 / 250D

The top camera on this list is the Canon SL3 / EOS 250D. It’s a great camera, and tremendous fun to use.

The SL3 is tiny and lightweight, yet the grip is still comfortable, and it has some of Canon’s most advanced features (including the newer 24-megapixel sensor). When I reviewed the nearly identical previous version (the Canon SL2) in New Mexico’s Bisti Badlands and Chicago’s glass-and-steel cityscape, I came away with the impression that this is a fantastic camera for any photographer – not just for a first-time DSLR shooter, even though that is the SL3’s target audience.

The main features? The SL3 has an excellent touchscreen LCD, with a full range of tilting motion for easy composition (like the Nikon D5600). And the 24-megapixel sensor is Canon’s newest, with excellent image quality, though it still lags slightly behind Nikon in low light (for the technically minded, no more than one stop of difference at high ISOs, based on our tests). Video users also will be happy to hear that the SL3 has dual pixel autofocus, the least expensive Canon camera to include it.

The big difference compared to the earlier SL2 is that, like the T8i, the SL3 has 4K video – although it only works with a heavy 2.64x crop relative to full-frame.

The Canon SL3 currently sells for $750 with a kit lens (also in stock at Amazon and Adorama if backordered on B&H), which is in line with other cameras on this list despite the more comprehensive features. Compared to the Nikon D5600, for example, it adds 4K video and dual pixel AF, making it much more useful for video. I also prefer the kit lens that comes with the SL3 in terms of ergonomics and size.

Alternatively, you can still buy the older SL2 used for less money. The SL2 also has a tilt-flip screen and dual pixel AF; it just doesn’t have 4K video, and its battery life is a bit worse. Everything else is the same between the SL2 and SL3.

And that’s what it takes to be number one! However, before you focus too much on the specific rankings here, let me return for a moment to the #6 camera on this list, the Canon T7i. That camera loses to the SL3 in weight (532 vs 449 grams), price ($860 vs $750), image quality (old vs new 24-megapixel sensor), battery life (600 vs 1070), and video (no 4K option). But beats it in autofocus performance (45 vs 9 autofocus points) and frame rate (6 FPS vs 5 FPS)! The T7i could easily be the preferred option for sports and wildlife photographers. Clearly, the difference from #6 to #1 on this list is pretty small. But in those small differences, the SL3 wins out.

Canon EOS Rebel SL2 + EF-S18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM @ 55mm, ISO 100, 1/250, f/7.1Canon EOS Rebel SL2 + EF-S18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM @ 18mm, ISO 500, 1/30, f/6.3

Complete Table

After seeing all the cameras in list form, I thought it would be useful to compare all these DSLRs and their key specifications in a table as well, hopefully to help you understand the specifications of each one a bit more clearly. For size purposes, I’ve divided it into two tables, first with cameras ranked tenth through sixth:

Feature	Canon T6 / 1300D	Pentax KF	Canon T7 / 2000D / 1500D	Canon T6i / 750D	Canon T7i / 800D
Ranking	10th	9th	8th	7th	6th
Announced	March 2016	November 2022	March 2018	February 2015	February 2017
Sensor Resolution	18 Megapixels	24 Megapixels	24 Megapixels (older version)	24 Megapixels (newer version)	24 Megapixels (newer version)
Autofocus Points	9	11	9	45	45
Frame Rate	3 FPS	6 FPS	3 FPS	5 FPS	6 FPS
LCD Type	Fixed	Tilt-flip	Fixed	Tilt-flip	Tilt-flip
Touchscreen	No	No	No	Yes	Yes
Max Video Specs	1920 × 1080p, 30 fps	1920 × 1080p, 60i fps	1920 × 1080p, 30 fps	1920 × 1080p, 30 fps	1920 × 1080p, 60 fps
Battery Life	500 photos	400 photos	500 photos	440 photos	600 photos
Control Layout	Basic	Advanced	Basic	Basic	Basic
Weight (with battery and card)	485 g	684 g	475 g	555 g	532 g
Dimensions (W×H×D)	129. 0 × 101.3 × 77.6mm	125.5 × 93.0 × 74.0mm	129.0 × 101.3 × 77.6mm	131.9 × 100.9 × 77.8mm	131.0 × 99.9 × 76.2mm
New Price (early 2023, with 18-55mm kit lens)	No longer sold new	$950	$480	No longer sold new	No longer sold new
Used Price with Lens (approximate)	$250	$900	$280	$350	$450

And then cameras ranked fifth through first:

Feature	Canon T8i / 850D	Nikon D3500	Nikon D5600	Pentax K-70	Canon SL3 / 250D
Ranking	5th	4th	3rd	2nd	1st
Announced	February 2020	August 2018	November 2016	June 2016	April 2019
Sensor Resolution	24 Megapixels (newer version)	24 Megapixels	24 Megapixels	24 Megapixels	24 Megapixels (newer version)
Autofocus Points	45	11	39	11	9
Frame Rate	7 FPS	5 FPS	5 FPS	6 FPS	5 FPS
LCD Type	Tilt-flip	Fixed	Tilt-flip	Tilt-flip	Tilt-flip
Touchscreen	Yes	No	Yes	No	Yes
Max Video Specs	3840 × 2160, 24 fps; and 1920 × 1080p, 60 fps	1920 × 1080p, 60 fps	1920 × 1080p, 60 fps	1920 × 1080p, 30 fps (and 1920 × 1080i, 60 fps)	3840 × 2160, 24 fps; and 1920 × 1080p, 60 fps
Battery Life	800 photos	1550 photos	970 photos	410 photos	1070 photos
Control Layout	Basic	Basic	Basic	Advanced	Basic
Weight (with battery and card)	515 g	415 g	465 g	688 g	449 g
Dimensions (W×H×D)	131 × 103 × 76 mm	124 × 97 × 70mm	124 × 97 × 70mm	125. 5 × 93 × 74mm	122 × 93 × 70 mm
New Price (early 2023, with 18-55mm kit lens)	$900	No longer sold new	$800	$750	$750
Used Price with Lens (approximate)	$600	$350	$450	$400	$450

Conclusion

Even though the Canon SL3 is number one on this list, remember that it isn’t necessarily the best camera for your needs. If you’d rather pay $50 extra for better autofocus and forego 4K video, the D5600 might be your top choice. Or, if you want great advanced controls and top build quality, the Pentax K-70 could be the way to go. The same is true of the D3400 for its impressive value and battery life – or, frankly, any camera you find on sale for a great price. The point is, you have plenty of options.

That said, I hope this article gave you a good idea of where to start when you’re looking for an entry-level DSLR. There are so many cameras available today that things can get a bit overwhelming, but the list above encompasses every important entry-level DSLR available today, as of 2023. Again, there’s not a dud in the bunch – just some cameras priced higher or lower than they should be, based on their competitors.

And most importantly, these might be “entry-level” DSLRs, but they’re all good enough to let you take high-quality photos. If you aren’t getting the pictures you want, it’s time to work on your technique instead!

Other articles of mine that you may be interested in, if you found this one:

• Photography Basics: The Complete Beginner’s Guide
• Best Gifts for Photographers
• Nikon vs Canon vs Sony in 2023
• All Nikon Cameras as of 2023, Compared & Brief Reviews
• The Best Mirrorless Cameras You Can Buy

Best video cameras | Articles | Photo, video, optical and for photographers.

Fortunately, many cameras these days have very advanced movie features. What began as simple 640 x 480 pixel videos a few years ago, more like animated GIFs, has evolved into a truly advanced technology that can compete in image quality with specialized video equipment. Below is a list of cameras that, along with excellent photos, allow you to shoot really high-quality video. nine0006

Our choice: Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S and DC-GH5

Both versions of the Lumix DC-GH5 camera from Panasonic were chosen as the winner. The Panasonic GH5 and GH5S support UHD and DCI 4K video at 60p (with 10-bit 4:2:2 chroma subsampling available in some modes) and offer a wider range of moviemaking tools than most of their closest competitors. This includes both the vectorscope and oscilloscopes, as well as zebra, focus peaking, and on-screen live preview for anamorphic and Log shooting. For many photographers, most of these terms may not be familiar, but videographers use these tools all the time in their work. nine0006

Equipped with a slightly larger dual gain sensor (allows for noise reduction at higher ISO speeds), the GH5S captures beautiful video in a wider range of lighting conditions than the regular GH5. This, plus the flexible handling of its 10-bit Log footage (the GH5's VLog-L is only available at an additional cost), makes the GH5S our go-to camera for video.

Instead, the standard GH5 offers built-in sensor-shift image stabilization. This is a more reliable choice for everyday shooting without special training and a tripod, as well as for just "watering" (as videographers sometimes say), that is, shooting everything around and indiscriminately. The 20-megapixel sensor makes this model the best option for taking photos in addition to videos. Autofocus of both models is not very reliable in video mode - this is perhaps the main disadvantage of both models. nine0006

Below we will take a closer look at the GH5 and GH5S separately.

Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5

Key Features:

20-megapixel MFT-format CMOS sensor.

3.68 million dot OLED viewfinder

4K/60p video.

Pros:

• Professional video features.
• Magnesium alloy housing with weather protection. nine0043
• Excellent viewfinder and movable touch screen.

Cons:

• Autofocus in the video sometimes prowls.
• Viewfinder resolution drops during high-speed shooting.

The Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5 is a hybrid camera suitable for photography and video, but still more interesting in terms of video shooting. Its 20-megapixel MFT-format sensor captures 4K video at 60p, with professional-grade features such as 4:2:2 chroma subsampling and 10-bit color. nine0006

The GH5 is large enough for a Micro 4:3 camera, but has excellent ergonomics and a weather-resistant body. There is a dual SD card slot, a handy joystick for menus and autofocus, and an excellent electronic viewfinder.

Autofocus is great for photos, but in video mode it sometimes lurks and, in general, its implementation lags behind competitor systems.

The GH5 utilizes the full width of the sensor to capture super-sharp 4K video at up to 60p. The GH5 can record 4:2:2 10-bit footage to a memory card, capturing twice the color information and 64 times the color depth of cameras shooting 4:2:0 8-bit video. The model received a whole set of professional tools, including vectorscopes and oscilloscopes, and the VLog-L profile is available as a paid upgrade. An advanced image stabilization system makes it easy to shoot video handheld. nine0006

From a photography standpoint, the image quality of the camera is excellent, with pleasingly rich colors. RAW files are very detailed, and the camera matrix allows you to effectively pull out the details in the shadows.

GH5 is more versatile than DC-GH5S. It offers excellent video performance as well as highly advanced still photography.

Panasonic Lumix DC-GH5S

Key Features:

10.3-megapixel CMOS sensor with various aspect ratios. nine0006

DCI/UHD 4K video at 60p.

3.68 million dot electronic viewfinder.

Pros :

• Shoots DCI 4K at 60p.
• Extended range of movie shooting functions.
• Matrix with different aspect ratios.

Cons:

• No image stabilization.
• Autofocus in video is not very reliable.
• Poor photo resolution by today's standards. nine0043

The DC-GH5S is a video-focused hybrid photo/video camera from the GH series. She received a matrix optimized for 4K, which allows you to shoot UHD and DCI video at speeds up to 60p. However, this larger chip, which maintains its field of view in both formats, did not allow the camera to use the built-in image stabilization system.

The body and controls of the DC-GH5S and GH5 are the same: a DSLR-style body with many customizable buttons and an extended touch interface for silent video operation. The GH5S is also one of the few cameras with oscilloscopes (waveforms). nine0006

The camera's autofocus is not bad enough, but not 100% reliable: focus may jitter and the subject may be lost during tracking.

The GH5S produces very impressive video, with a good level of detail in a wide range of lighting conditions. 10-bit shooting along with V-Log L and Hybrid Log modes provide good flexibility for subsequent color grading. 60p and 50p 4K can be recorded to a memory card in 8-bit or output via HDMI in 10-bit. nine0006

Photo-wise, JPEGs look quite good, with much better color than older Panasonic models, and RAW files have enough dynamic range to justify the addition of 14-bit footage. However, in general, a video-optimized sensor does not provide the photo detail that we expect from advanced cameras today.

The GH5S delivers some of the best video on the market for hybrid photo/video cameras. In addition to picture quality, the model boasts a large set of professional video tools. Weaknesses include the lack of built-in stabilization, as well as not the most reliable autofocus. nine0006

Alternate choice: Fujifilm X-T3

Key Features:

26-megapixel APS-C X-Trans BSI-CMOS sensor.

4K/60p video.

Touchscreen, 2-axis inclined.

Pros:

• High quality 10-bit 4K video.
• Excellent RAW and JPEG photos.
• Convenient customizable controls.

Cons:

• No built-in stabilization.
• No AF tracking in video.
• f/1.4 lenses may focus slowly.

The Fujifilm X-T3 has made our lists of the best cameras on numerous occasions, which is not surprising, since Fujifilm has managed to create a truly versatile model that is perfect for a variety of tasks. And video recording is no exception.

While the GH5 and GH5S offer more advanced video features and a wider range of additional tools, the Fujifilm X-T3 is not only more versatile, but also cheaper. nine0006

Fujifilm's mirrorless camera can shoot 4K video at up to 60p in 10-bit for post-processing flexibility. In addition, its video autofocus system performs well in a wide range of shooting situations.

In addition to top video performance, X-T3 also boasts excellent photos. Its 26-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor produces excellent RAW and JPEG images with some of the best color reproduction on the market.

It also features a set of traditional, highly customizable controls that let you easily switch between stills and movies. The only tangible disadvantage for video shooting is the lack of a built-in stabilization system. All in all, the X-T3 is one of the most interesting APS-C still and video cameras on the market today. nine0006

Other options

Canon EOS M6 Mark II

Key Features:

32. 5 megapixel APS-C sensor.

Continuous shooting 14 fps.

4K/30p video.

Pros:

• Very good image quality.
• The Dual Pixel AF system provides good focusing speed and accuracy.
• Compact but with a good range of controls. nine0043

Cons:

• Limited battery life.
• Charging via USB only with special PD adapters.
• 4K video is not as detailed as the competition.

Where previous models were more of a choice for professional videographers who know how to use specialized tools and are ready for post-production with color grading, the Canon EOS M6 Mark II is a simpler and more beginner-friendly video camera. nine0006

This 32MP APS-C mirrorless camera features a compact body, Dual Pixel autofocus system and 4K video capture.

Despite its small size, the M6 ​​Mark II has a comfortable grip and a full range of physical controls in addition to a convenient touch interface.

The autofocus system performs well in both stills and movies, with convenient and effective subject tracking and eye/face detection.

Of course, 4K video is a lot less detailed than previous models, and even a little worse than some of the direct competitors in the mid-budget mirrorless camp, but the handy touch autofocus makes it one of the most comfortable cameras for shooting amateur video. The camera also allows you to easily switch between photo and video modes with different settings for each mode.

In terms of photography, the 32.5-megapixel sensor performs well in terms of noise, dynamic range and resolution. nineThe 0006

M6 II is a great choice for amateur videography, and overall a versatile camera that's comfortable and fun to shoot with.

Nikon Z6

Key Features:

24-megapixel full-frame BSI-CMOS sensor.

Integrated image stabilization.

UHD 4K/30p video.

Pros:

• Great photos and 4K video.
• Excellent build quality.
nine0042 High quality 3.69 million dot OLED viewfinder.

Cons:

• Overly aggressive high ISO noise reduction.
• Small delays in the viewfinder make it difficult to shoot fast subjects.
• Not the most capacious battery.

The Nikon Z6, like the X-T3, has already made it to our best camera lists, last time it was the best cameras for Instagram and lifestyle photography. Unsurprisingly, both cameras are also great options for shooting video, as versatility is one of their strengths. nine0006

This is an entry-level full-frame mirrorless camera with a weather-resistant body and built-in image stabilization.

The Z6 lets you shoot 4K/30p video with great detail and tracking autofocus. The camera can also output 10-bit video via HDMI to an external recorder.

The quality of photos in the camera is also at the highest level, the only drawback is too much noise reduction at high ISOs in JPEG.

The combination of excellent photo and video quality makes the Z6 another interesting option for hobby videographers. nine0006

Sony Alpha a7 III

Key Features:

24-megapixel full-frame BSI-CMOS sensor.

Hybrid autofocus system.

Integrated image stabilization.

Pros:

• High quality photo and video.
• Superb autofocus.
• Excellent battery life.

Cons:

• Limited functionality of the touch interface. nine0043
• Confusing menu;
• Viewfinder resolution not very high.

Launched two years ago, the Sony a7 III continues to be one of the most exciting full-frame mirrorless cameras on the market, thanks in part to its excellent video quality and excellent range of advanced video tools.

This is still one of the most compact full-frame mirrorless cameras out there and works great with smaller lenses - larger lenses are a little off balance. The menu system and control customization can create difficulties in the early stages of using the camera due to their complexity. The touch interface in the model is not implemented in the best way, and the resolution of the viewfinder at the moment seems too small. On the other hand, the camera provides a very decent 710 shots per battery charge, and the autofocus system with 693 dots on the matrix covers most of the frame. There is also an eye recognition system.

In terms of video recording, the camera offers very detailed 4K full-sensor readout when shooting at 24p. There is a 1.2x crop at 30p, but the detail is still great. The model offers many additional tools, including zebra and focus picking, as well as Log profiles. Rolling shutter is well controlled, and as a bonus, there is slow motion shooting in Full HD. nine0006

In terms of photography, the camera also excels. It's one of the best cameras for shooting in low light, RAW files have great dynamic range, while JPEGs show nice colors and good sharpness.

The Sony Alpha a7 III is a solid recommendation for both professional videographers and photographers for whom video is more of a complement to photography.

Of course, these are not all cameras on the market that are well suited for video shooting. So everyone who is professionally involved in shooting video should definitely pay attention to the recently introduced Panasonic Lumix DC-S1H and Fujifilm X-T4. And on a more amateur level, the Sony a6600 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII also stand out. nine0006

* The article was prepared using materials from the sites dpreview.com, bhphotovideo.com and onfoto.ru.

Cameras for vloggers: beginner and advanced | Articles | Photo, video, optics

Source: collectivedge. com

Choosing a camera / camcorder for shooting vlogs may not be as simple as it might seem at first glance. There are simply a huge number of cameras on the market that can shoot good video, with a wide variety of features and price tags. nine0006

Of course, a good camera is an essential tool for any vlogger. After all, it is she who shoots the content that you will show on the network. However, not all models shoot in the same way, both in terms of pictures and in terms of the whole style of work. Since every blogger has different technique requirements, skills, and expectations, to say that any camera will be objectively better no matter the situation is likely to be an overstatement. Of course, with the release of Sony's new model, specially sharpened for shooting video selfies, the choice for many bloggers has become much easier, but the novelty has a number of drawbacks, including a starting price of $ 800, which can not be called a budget option. In addition, it is not entirely clear when the Sony ZV-1 will be available in our country, so we will turn to alternative options. nine0006

Sony ZV-1. Source: mobile-review.com

In this article we will consider models for a wide range of users, from beginners to experienced bloggers, including those suitable for special tasks.

For beginners

Video blogging is gaining more and more popularity. And while you can save money and shoot a decent vlog using your smartphone, at some point switching to a dedicated camera can really improve the quality of the material. With the advent of live streaming on Instagram, almost everyone has become a vlogger, so good picture quality and production in general can help you stand out from the crowd and attract an audience. nine0006

Budget camcorder

The Panasonic HC-V770 is a great way to start shooting video without spending extra money on features you might not need. The camera allows you to shoot high-quality video in 1080p at up to 60 fps and slow motion at 120 fps. The 20x zoom lens offers multiple framing options and different perspectives.

This is a good place to start thanks to its excellent video quality (though not in 4K) and ease of use with automatic exposure control modes. nine0006

When you're ready to make your own exposure adjustments, you can control the camera using the dedicated dial on the front of the body. And once you decide you're ready to record higher quality audio, you'll find a microphone input on the front: separate microphones (lavaliers and guns) offer much better sound recording compared to built-in microphones.

The captured video is saved in MP4 format to the SD card. In this format, you can work with PC and Mac in most editing applications. If you don't want to mess around with video editing, MP4 files directly from your camera will work for most social platforms like Youtube. nine0006

For travelers

Source: bhphotovideo. com

When it comes to action cameras, the first thing that always comes to mind is GoPro. These super-compact cameras produce decent quality footage and mount to virtually any surface, making them especially popular with sports bloggers and many travellers.

A good balance between price, quality and the availability of various useful accessories makes the latest HERO8 Black an interesting option for travel vlogging. GoPro cameras are also well known for their versatility. nine0006

Optional accessories further increase the versatility of the GoPro, extending the potential for use in hard-to-reach places, with the ability to remotely control the camera. Also, GoPro mounts are usually compatible with the entire line and are supported by new models, so if you want to upgrade your camera in the future, the accessories you already bought will work with it.

For musicians

For recording musical performances or quick sketches, good clear sound is the most important requirement. You can add a separate microphone to the camera, or you can purchase a device that can not only shoot videos in good quality, but also record excellent sound. nine0006

Zoom Q8 allows you to shoot HD video, but the main focus of the device is on audio capabilities. The model records sound using two condenser microphones located on top of the camcorder. They are arranged in an "X/Y" pattern for stereo recording without "cancellation phase". If your vlog is all about making or promoting music, then this camera can be a good budget option, faithfully reproducing audiovisual experiences from gigs, jam sessions and live instrument lessons. nine0006

Beginner Videographer

If your vlog is about the basics of videography and cinematography, but you're not ready to spend a lot of money on a professional camcorder, the Canon EOS 800D is worth checking out.

For the EOS system, you will find a wide variety of lenses, including anamorphic lenses, to allow for a wide variety of aesthetic and compositional solutions.

This is a fairly versatile camera that also takes great still pictures, so you can learn the basics and techniques that you'll need when shooting video. nine0006

All-in-One Vlogger Camera

One of the main competitors for the new Sony ZV-1 is the Canon G7 X Mark III. Indeed, this is another camera that was initially positioned as a model for vloggers.

One of the highlights of the G7X series has always been the 3-inch touchscreen that flips up 180 degrees for easy selfies and vlogging. The Mark III added a video record button to the screen, which is convenient for starting recording in the selfie position. nine0006

The video quality leaves a very good impression. It may not be as sharp as some of the more expensive 1-inch cameras, but it's detailed enough for everyday shooting, with a little rolling shutter when moving. The camera offers a decent level of exposure control in Full HD, but only works in auto mode in 4K. At the same time, 4K is filmed without crop and with good stabilization.

The built-in microphone is suitable for shooting indoors or in quiet environments, but for better sound quality, it is better to use an external microphone, since there is a separate connector for it. nine0006

Other features specifically for bloggers include the ability to live stream on YouTube without the use of third-party apps.

In addition to video, the camera allows you to take high-quality photos, so it can be a versatile tool for vloggers who are also into photography.

For advanced videographers

If you are already experienced in video shooting and your vlog needs more advanced equipment, you should look at devices at a higher level. A deeper understanding of the video recording process allows you to take advantage of the more advanced functionality that high-end equipment offers. nine0006

An advanced camcorder in a classic form factor

Source: bhphotovideo.com

Vloggers who are accustomed to a traditional camcorder-style form factor will appreciate the Canon Legria HF G50. It's comfortable and lightweight, shooting UHD 4K video at up to 30fps and Full HD at 60fps, with precise manual control using the lens control ring and large zoom button. The camcorder features zebra patterns and other video-specific features, a retractable EVF with an eyecup, and other features found on more expensive camcorders. nine0006

Dual card slot allows continuous recording of long events - recording automatically switches to the second card when the first one is full, without dropping frames. It is also possible to record material on both cards at once for safety reasons. The camera is equipped with a standard 3.5 mm audio jack and a branded hot shoe for connecting compatible microphones.

Advanced Video Recording Control

If you want an advanced level of control over the picture and the entire video recording process, then one of the most interesting cameras on the market is the Panasonic Lumix GH5. Many successful vloggers have switched to this model in search of higher video quality and more advanced control options. For the Micro 4:3 mount, you'll find a huge variety of lenses, from native models to adapted vintage lenses. nine0006

The camera offers detailed settings to get exactly the picture you want. The large enough 4:3 sensor and the fast lenses available for the system give you a high level of control over the depth of field in your video.

The Panasonic Lumix GH5 features dual memory card slots, external microphone and headphone jacks, and a fully movable display.

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