Mirrorless cameras are increasingly becoming popular among professional photographers and amateurs alike. This is because of a number of reasons, including their compact housings and superb image quality. Every manufacturer is catching on, and there is an increasing number of options available every year.
Contents
- 1 Top 12 Best Mirrorless Cameras In 2023 Reviews
- 1.1 1 Nikon Z 50 DX-Format Mirrorless Camera Body, Black – Best Mirrorless Cameras for under $1000
- 1.2 2 Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III Body Black
- 1.3 3 Fujifilm X-T3 Mirrorless Digital Camera (Body Only) – Black
- 1.4 4 Nikon Z6 Full Frame Mirrorless Camera Body – Best Full Frame Mirrorless Cameras under $2000
- 1.5 5 Canon EOS RP Mirrorless Camera Body, Black – 3380C002
- 1.6 6 Panasonic Lumix GX85 Camera with 12-32mm Lens – DMC-GX85KK – Best Point and Shoot Mirrorless Camera
- 1.7 7 Sony Alpha A6100 Mirrorless Camera – Best Mirrorless Cameras for Photography
- 1.8 8 Sony α7R IV Full-frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera – ILCE7RM4/B
- 1.9 9 Nikon Z7 FX-Format Mirrorless Camera Body
- 1.10 10 Panasonic LUMIX S1R Full Frame Mirrorless Camera
- 1.11 11 Fujifilm GFX 50R 51.4MP Mirrorless Medium Format Camera Body
- 1.11.1 You get what you pay for, they say…
- 1.11.2 This is one of the lightest and most compact options we looked at, which will be a huge plus for anyone looking to shoot for hours on end. You’ll quickly fall in love with how much smaller this is compared with a DSLR camera. However, it’s most certainly not the best mirrorless camera for filmmakers, as it does not shoot 4K.
- 1.12 12 OLYMPUS OM-D E-M10 Mark III BODY/BLK – Best Mirrorless Cameras for Beginners
- 2 Best Mirrorless Cameras Buying Guide
- 3 More Camera Options
- 4 So, What Are The Best Mirrorless Cameras?
But how do you choose from a growing list of mirrorless cameras?
To help you in your search, we have put together this in-depth review, in which you will find our top choices for the best mirrorless cameras on the market, as well as a buying guide.
So, let’s go through them and find the perfect mirrorless camera for your needs…
Top 12 Best Mirrorless Cameras In 2023 Reviews
1 Nikon Z 50 DX-Format Mirrorless Camera Body, Black – Best Mirrorless Cameras for under $1000
The first option on our list of high quality mirrorless cameras is a new model from Nikon. Well known for their DSLR cameras, Nikon has quickly made the move into the mirrorless category. Their Z-50 DX feels like it was designed in response to the growing influence that Instagram has brought to photography.
Compact and lightweight…
The first thing you will note is the incredible size and weight of this camera. The camera body weighs a minimal 14 ounces. That’s remarkable and means that you can carry this camera around with you all day long very comfortably. This makes it one of the best mirrorless cameras for traveling currently available.
Even being this compact, you still are equipped with a 20.9 MP DX-CMOS sensor and EXPEED 6 image processor. This means you’ll get some serious image quality. Plus, the native ISO runs from 100-51,200 for better usage in low-light conditions.
For the price, this camera has a lot to offer…
The camera body also features durable construction, and an all-weather seal to keep out dust and moisture. There is built-in WiFi and Bluetooth for easily sharing images with smartphones and a flip-under LCD touchscreen that’s great for selfies.
We also like the Z-mount lens system that Nikon has on this camera, and the Z6 and Z7 series. This mount has a 55mm opening, which allows in more light than any other option within this price range.
(4.5 / 5)Pros
- DX-CMOS sensor.
- 20.9 megapixels and EXPEED 6 image processor.
- 3.2-inch flip-under touchscreen w/1.04M dots.
- Nikon Z lens mount and Electronic viewfinder.
- Continuous shooting speed at 11fps.
- ISO range: 100 – 51,200.
- Video recording in 4K Ultra HD/Time-Lapse/Slow-Motion
- Pop-up flash built-in.
- Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth.
Cons
- The battery only offers about 300 shots per charge.
- Only features a single memory card slot.
- There is no built-in image stabilization.
2 Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III Body Black
Another great option for around a thousand dollars is the OM-D E-M5 Mark III from Olympus. As with many items on this list, this is a camera body only. This is great if you already have lenses, but if not, you’ll need to purchase them separately.
Truly awesome…
Most mirrorless cameras now have lens adapter rings, which means that restricted lens ranges are less of an issue compared with a few years ago. When you pair this with a camera that is dustproof, splashproof, and freezeproof to 14°F (-10℃), you get something awesome.
It’s not expensive compared with most options, but you still get outstanding image quality with this camera. It shoots 30 frames per second, in 20 megapixels, which is pretty fantastic, as is the C4K video recording capabilities.
Keep your images focused and crystal clear…
The 5 axis image stabilization and Live MOS sensor work to produce some slick photographs. The ISO range is also rather good, though there is a bit of noise in low light conditions. The viewfinder offers an astounding 2.36 million dots for identification.
Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth help with sharing and editing images quickly and easily.
(4.6 / 5)Pros
- Mirror 4/3 Live MOS sensor and 20.4 megapixels.
- SensorShift 5-axis image stabilization.
- 3-inch multi-angle screen w/1.04M dots.
- Sync IS lens mount.
- OLED viewfinder w/2.36M dots.
- Continuous shooting speed at 30fps.
- ISO range: 200 – 25,600.
- Video recording in C4K.
- Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth.
Cons
- No built-in flash.
3 Fujifilm X-T3 Mirrorless Digital Camera (Body Only) – Black
Taking a small step up in price comes the X-T3 from Fujifilm. This is not the best mirrorless camera for professional photographers, but it’s perfect for just about everyone else.
When it comes to producing quality images, Fujifilm has been in the game longer than most. They may have moved out of film cameras, but their step into the mirrorless digital camera range has been significant. This is an outstanding little camera for the price. It features 26.1 megapixels and a X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor and runs on a X-Processor 4 for top-quality images.
Great for low light phase detection…
It has 2.16 million point phase detection that covers the whole frame. The low-light phase detection has been upgraded over previous models as well. Still, for low-light, we wouldn’t consider this the best mirrorless camera for night photography.
Come rain, come shine…
The housing is weather-resistant, saving you some worry when shooting in light rain. We also like the 3-inch touchscreen, 4k video recording, and the built-in WiFi and Bluetooth connections. The 30fps shooting is impressive, as is the 3.69 million dot viewfinder.
Altogether this produces a fantastic little camera.
(4.6 / 5)Pros
- CMOS 4 sensor with X Processor 4 image processor.
- 26.1 megapixels.
- 3-inch touchscreen w/1.04M dots.
- Fujifilm X-mount lens mount.
- OLED color viewfinder w/3.69M dots.
- Continuous shooting speed at 30fps.
- ISO range: 160 – 12,800.
- Video recording in 4K/60P.
- Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth.
Cons
- No built-in image stabilization.
- The screen tilts but does not rotate enough for selfies.
4 Nikon Z6 Full Frame Mirrorless Camera Body – Best Full Frame Mirrorless Cameras under $2000
If you like Nikon, but want a step up from the Z50 we reviewed earlier, then the Z6 might be the best mirrorless camera for you. It’s a bit more expensive, but still, nothing compared to the top-end models further down on our list. In fact, this is one of the best full-frame mirrorless cameras for under $2000 that you can buy.
We really like the revolutionary optics of this camera. It offers a stunning 24.5 megapixels with a backside illuminated sensor. The AutoFocus has a 273 point on-sensor phase detection for brilliant images without much fuss. And you’ll be more than impressed with the images that this camera produces.
What about video quality?
Yes, that is also top-notch. You get 4K Ultra-HD video recording. There is also time-lapse in 6K and slow-motion capabilities at 1080p/120fps. This makes it one of the best mirrorless cameras for vlogging on the market.
How fast does it shoot?
You can snap pictures at a rate of 12 frames per second. The camera body is also compatible with the Nikon Z lens range. You also can, of course, also get a lens adapter to widen the range of available lenses.
How does it do in low light?
Rather well, in our opinion. Plus, the ISO range is a solid 100 – 51,200, and this can then be extended to 204,800. If you want to go shoot the Milky Way, take this beauty out with you.
(4.4 / 5)Pros
- FX-CMOS sensor.
- 24.5 megapixels and an EXPEED 6 image processor.
- 3-inch flip-under touchscreen w/1.04M dots.
- Nikon Z lens mount.
- Electronic viewfinder.
- Continuous shooting speed at 12fps.
- ISO range: 100 – 51,200.
- Video recording in 4K UHD.
- Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth.
Cons
- You can get better mirrorless cameras, but they will cost a lot more money.
5 Canon EOS RP Mirrorless Camera Body, Black – 3380C002
The first entry on our list of the best mirrorless camera reviews from Canon is the EOS RP model. This is one of the least expensive full frame mirrorless cameras available. This alone makes it one of the best beginners mirrorless cameras you can buy and allows you to get a full frame mirrorless camera without breaking the bank.
This baby offers a whopping 26.2 megapixels and a CMOS sensor. The DIGIC 8 image processor completes this trio and produces outstanding image quality for the price. There is also Dual Pixel CMOS AutoFocus for reliable and quick focusing.
What about the low-light sensitivity?
It’s certainly not as good as with the other, more expensive options on our list, and this is not the best mirrorless camera for night photography. However, for normal light conditions, this is a great all-around option, especially at the price point.
However, we aren’t 100% happy with the RF lens mount, as it is a bit restrictive. But here are adapters available, as we mentioned earlier. It also only shoots up to 5 frames per second, which doesn’t compare with higher-end options.
(4.3 / 5)Pros
- CMOS sensor and 26.2 megapixels.
- DIGIC 8 image processor.
- Dual Pixel CMOS AutoFocus
- 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen w/1.04M dots.
- RF lens mount.
- Electronic viewfinder.
- Continuous shooting speed at 5fps.
- ISO range: 100 – 40,000.
- Video recording in 4K UHD.
- Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth.
Cons
- Limited native lens range.
- Minimal frames per second compared with the competition.
6 Panasonic Lumix GX85 Camera with 12-32mm Lens – DMC-GX85KK – Best Point and Shoot Mirrorless Camera
If you’re looking for a mirrorless camera but don’t want to hassle with multiple lenses, then Panasonic has you covered. This makes the Lumix GX85, one of the best point and shoot mirrorless cameras available.
If you don’t want something complicated, this is the best option on our list. It offers fantasists 4k video quality, a 5 axis built-in image stabilization system, and the Lumix 2 axis optical stabilized lens. This dual image stabilization is one of the best in its class, and you’ll be more than impressed with the image quality.
Fantastic quality for the price point…
The Panasonic Lumix GX85 is also considerably less expensive than most options on our list. Especially when you consider the money you’ll save on a lens. The MFT sensor still brings you a solid 16 megapixels. Trust us; you will fall in love with this compact mirrorless camera. Plus, it’s small enough to easily fit in your pocket.
Fully-featured…
There are also a few other nice features like the thumbwheel control, that is super easy to use. The viewfinder and touch enabled LCD screen offer easy viewing and control of your shots. Plus, the rear display tilts for shooting at any angle.
This all makes this easily the best affordable compact mirrorless camera we reviewed.
(4.5 / 5)Pros
- MFT sensor.
- 16 megapixels.
- LUMIX 2-axis optically stabilized
- 3-inch tilting touchscreen w/1.4M dots.
- 12-32mm built-in lens
- Electronic viewfinder.
- ISO range: 100 – 25,600.
- Video recording in 4K.
- Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth.
Cons
- No interchangeable lenses.
- Limited low light range.
7 Sony Alpha A6100 Mirrorless Camera – Best Mirrorless Cameras for Photography
One of the least expensive mirrorless cameras that feature interchangeable lenses is from Sony. Their A6100 series is a wonderful little camera. It looks like a point and click, but it offers extended control with interchangeable lenses. And for the size and price, this is one of the best photographic mirrorless cameras you can buy.
Quick as a flash…
This baby has the worlds’ fastest auto-focus at 0.02 seconds. The wide 425-phase/425-contract picks up AutoFocus points over 84% of the sensor. Considering this is on a 24.2 megapixel APS-C Exmor sensor, you’re fully covered. The image quality this camera produces is just stunning for its size and weight. It even shoots in RAW, which many professionals will appreciate.
The rear touchscreen can rotate 180°, which selfie lovers will adore. And the ISO range is even very good at levels reaching 51,200.
(4.6 / 5)Pros
- APS-C Exmor sensor and 24.2 megapixels.
- LUMIX 2-axis optically stabilized
- 3-inch 180° tilting touchscreen w/1.4M dots.
- Sony E lens mount.
- Electronic viewfinder.
- Continuous shooting speed at 11fps.
- ISO range: 100 – 51,200.
- Video recording in 4K.
Cons
- No built-in WiFi or Bluetooth.
- The view finder doesn’t measure up to the competition.
- The small frame can feel awkward in larger hands.
8 Sony α7R IV Full-frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera – ILCE7RM4/B
If you’re looking for the best of the best, then the Sony a7R IV is one of your options. The Alpha R series has been all about resolution since its concept. This latest Mark IV version takes things to the max.
If the number of megapixels is your concern, you will love this option, with Sony offering us the world’s first 61-megapixel full frame digital camera. Yes, it has more than double the number of pixels compared with the competition. It also employs a back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS Image Sensor, and a BIONZ X processor.
We also like the crazy good autofocus system…
There is a Fast Hybrid AutoFocus. This offers 567 phase detection points and 425 contrast points. The electronic viewfinder offers a 5.76 million dot UXGA OLED Tru-Finder system. The picture quality that all of this comes together to produce is rather astounding.
How does it do in low light?
About as well as you can ask for, the ISO range covers 100 – 32,00, but that can be extended to 50 – 102,400. So yeah, you should be able to shoot in any conditions. In fact, this really is one of the best mirrorless cameras for sale at any price!
However, unfortunately, it also is one of the more expensive options on the market…
There is, of course, also 4K video recording capabilities. Plus, you can shoot up to 10 frames per second. This really is one of the best mirrorless digital cameras for professionals available.
(4.3 / 5)Pros
- An amazing 61.0 megapixels and Exmor R CMOS sensor.
- Fast Hybrid AF.
- BIONZ X image processing engine.
- In-body 5-axis image stabilization.
- 3-inch tilting touchscreen w/14.4M dots.
- Sony E lens mount.
- 5.76-million-dot UXGA OLED Tru-Finder.
- Continuous shooting speed at 10fps.
- ISO range: 50 – 102,400.
- Video recording in 4K.
- Dual media slots.
Cons
- The small body can make larger lenses feel unbalanced.
- Considerably more expensive than many available options.
9 Nikon Z7 FX-Format Mirrorless Camera Body
Another option on our list of the best mirrorless camera reviews from Nikon is the Z7 series. This is another step up from the Z6 series that we reviewed above. It’s a bit more expensive and designed more for the experienced photographer.
Outstanding optical performance…
This camera is loaded with features, on top of top-quality performance. It also uses the new, larger Z mount lens mounting system, which produces outstanding optical performance. As does the 45.7-megapixel backside-illuminated OLPF (optical low pass filter) image sensor.
The FX-CMOS image sensor and a 493 point on-sensor phase detect AutoFocus system add to the image quality. You can even shoot up to 9 fps, which is plenty fast for most types of photography.
Made for Pros…
This is one of the best Nikon mirrorless cameras currently available, and it certainly feels made for professionals. The video quality offered is also rather spectacular. Standard video runs in 4K Ultra-HD, and there is also an 8K time-lapse mode, and for some real fun, a 120/1080P slow-motion feature.
Professional quality in a compact camera body…
For those looking to make the switch from DSLR to mirrorless, this is one of the best options, and the picture quality it produces is comparable to top DSLR options. However, it’s considerably smaller and lighter, which is part of the appeal of going mirrorless.
(4.3 / 5)Pros
- FX-CMOS sensor with 45.7 megapixels.
- Hybrid AF.
- 3-inch tilting touchscreen.
- Z-mount lens mount.
- 3.69-million-dot OLED viewfinder.
- Continuous shooting speed at 9fps.
- ISO range: 64 – 25,600.
- Video recording in 4K UHD at 30p / 8K time-lapse / 120/1080P slow-motion.
Cons
- The Nikon native range of lenses is limited, so you will want a lens adapter.
- There is only a single XQD card slot.
10 Panasonic LUMIX S1R Full Frame Mirrorless Camera
Looking very much comparable to the Nikon that we’ve reviewed above, the S1R from Panasonic Lumix makes another great option. This unit hits the same price point and has very similar specs for those looking for a non-Nikon camera body.
This is one of the best Lumix mirrorless cameras available and provides a 47.3 megapixel on a MOS high-resolution sensor. This offers a wide dynamic range and offers adequate light sensitivity. If you’re looking to top-level low light conditions, this might not be the best option. The max ISO is 25,600, which is a lot lower than many options.
What about video recording?
Yes, you can shoot movies in 4K up to 60p/50p. There is also a 6K PHOTO and HLG photo option. If you’re looking for the best mirrorless camera for landscape photos, then look no further. The built-in sensor shift technology allows for super high-resolution images.
The size and weight will be a selling point for some, and a sticking point for others, this unit is considerably heavier and a bit larger than many other options. That can be a good thing when using a larger or longer lens, as it provides better balance in those cases.
A bit on the heavy side…
However, compared with the other options on the list, this unit is overweight. Some will like this, but it does make us think that you may as well get a DSLR.
(4.9 / 5)Pros
- CMOS sensor and 47.3 megapixels.
- Contrast AF System.
- 5-axis Dual Image Stabilizer 2.
- 3.2-inch triaxial tilting touchscreen w/1M dots.
- L-mount lens mount.
- 5.76-million-dot OLED viewfinder.
- Continuous shooting speed at 9fps.
- ISO range: 50 – 51,200.
- Video recording in 4K at 60p/50p.
- Double memory card slots.
Cons
- On the heavy side for a mirrorless camera.
- Rather expensive compared to other options on the market.
11 Fujifilm GFX 50R 51.4MP Mirrorless Medium Format Camera Body
Coming in as the most expensive option on our list is the GFX50R from Fujifilm. This is another option that has been specially designed for professionals, it’s a top-end mirrorless camera, and one we wish we had in our arsenal.
You get what you pay for, they say…
The GFX50R has a medium format 43.8 x 32.9mm sensor. This produces sharp images of 51.4-megapixel quality using the X-Processor Pro image processor.
This is one of the lightest and most compact options we looked at, which will be a huge plus for anyone looking to shoot for hours on end. You’ll quickly fall in love with how much smaller this is compared with a DSLR camera. However, it’s most certainly not the best mirrorless camera for filmmakers, as it does not shoot 4K.
Excellent for landscapes…
The image quality is out of this world, though for the price, it’s a bit slower to use than many other options, with longer processing times. However, for landscape photography, this is a fantastic camera.
(3.8 / 5)Pros
- CMOS 4 sensor with X Processor 4 image processor.
- 54.1 megapixels.
- 3.2-inch touchscreen w/2.36M dots.
- Fujifilm G-mount lens mount.
- OLED color viewfinder w/3.69M dots.
- Continuous shooting speed at 3fps.
- Video recording in full HD.
- Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth.
Cons
- It’s at the top-end of the price list for those we reviewed.
- The AutoFocus isn’t as fast as we’d like for this price point.
12 OLYMPUS OM-D E-M10 Mark III BODY/BLK – Best Mirrorless Cameras for Beginners
The final option on our list of the best digital mirrorless cameras is made by Olympus. Their OM-D E-M10 Mark III is the least expensive option on our list. For that reason alone, this is one of the best beginners mirrorless cameras around. At this price point, it’s hard to compare this with the Fujifilm we just reviewed, but take the price into consideration, and this Olympus will blow you away.
Designed with the budding photographer in mind…
This camera was designed to be your best first mirrorless camera. It’s not made for professionals, so there are many features missing. However, this is still one great piece of photography equipment.
It offers 16.1 megapixel from a MOS sensor. When you add in the 5-axis image stabilization and OLED viewfinder, you’ll be able to clearly see what you’re shooting, and we reckon you’ll be pleasantly surprised with the image quality.
What about video recording capabilities?
This unit also shoots 4K Ultra-HD video, and it’s surprising how beautiful the video is from this small and lightweight digital camera. Our only real complaint is the limited IOS range. Having said that, most people don’t need a camera that works super well in low light conditions. For most photographers, especially those new to it all, this is more than a wide enough range.
If you’re taking the first steps into proper photography, this is an excellent first camera option.
(4.2 / 5)Pros
- Live MOS sensor with 16.1 megapixels.
- SensorShift 5-axis image stabilization.
- 3-inch tilting touchscreen.
- OLED viewfinder w/2.36M dots.
- Continuous shooting speed at 8fps.
- ISO range: 100 – 6,400.
- Video recording in 4K Ultra-HD.
- Built-in WiFi.
Cons
- Doesn’t focus as well as more expensive options.
- Lower image quality compared with the rest of the list, but that’s understandable considering the price.
Best Mirrorless Cameras Buying Guide
So, there you have our reviews of the best quality mirrorless cameras available across a broad price range. Next, we will cover the primary features these cameras have. But before we do that, it’s good to ensure everyone understands what a mirrorless camera is.
Mirrorless vs. DSLR cameras
Mirrorless cameras are a newer style of camera that allow you to swap out lenses. This means they are adaptable to any style of photography like a DSLR camera. There is, however, a couple of major differences between the two styles.
First off, mirrorless cameras don’t have a mirror. Duh…
Due to advances in technology, there is no longer a need to employ a mirror within the camera body. This makes mirrorless cameras smaller and lighter than DSLR cameras. For the most part, considerably, though some mirrorless cameras are still rather large.
The lack of a mirror also means there is a need for an electronic viewfinder. Some smaller, cheaper models of mirrorless cameras don’t even feature a viewfinder. With these, you rely on the rear display to compose your shots.
These days, mirrorless cameras are equal to or better than DSLR cameras. However, they tend to be slightly more expensive, though cheaper models with fewer features are becoming increasingly available.
The First Feature Everyone Looks At Is The Megapixel Count, But Should You?
Some would say yes. The number of pixels does make a difference in image quality, without a doubt. The cheaper options above offer 16MP will struggle to achieve the same quality as the crazy 61MP Sony a7R IV.
However, at the same time, the number of pixels isn’t everything. You also need to consider stabilization features, and if you’re not a pro, then also AutoFocus. Most of the time, we do not use a tripod when shooting. Many cameras have stabilization built into them, but most don’t.
Are You A Video Lover?
These mirrorless cameras don’t just take amazing pictures. Many of them can also record video in stunning clarity. There are even some options with slow-motion or time-lapse features. If you like creating a bit of everything, get a good all-around option.
Do You Have A Specific Photography Style In Mind?
Most of the options above will do well in the majority of conditions. However, if you like shooting the stars at night, your priority in camera specs will differ from those shooting sporting events.
ISO ranges, and the number of frames per second, should also be seriously considered by each photographer before choosing a new camera body. You know what you like to shoot, but also consider what you actually shoot most often.
More Camera Options
You may be looking for more than just a superb quality mirrorless camera in your arsenal? If so, check out our Best Instant Cameras Reviews, the Best Point and Shoot Cameras, the Best Compact Cameras Reviews, the Best GoPro Camera Reviews, and for the ultimate in fun, the Best Camera Drones Reviews.
So, What Are The Best Mirrorless Cameras?
That completes our buying guide of the best digital mirrorless cameras. Hopefully, this, and our list of reviews above have helped narrow down the options as to which is the perfect mirrorless camera for your needs.
As to our recommendation, we would go for the…
Sony Alpha A6100 Mirrorless Camera
For those breaking into photography, this is one of the options on the market and will give you excellent results for the money.
Happy snapping!
