EDITOR'S NOTE: SEPTEMBER 2022
There's been an explosion of new mirrorless cameras recently, and it looks like that trend is likely to continue. The big recent news for photographers has been the arrival of the Fujifilm X-H2S (which is in our guide below) and X-H2, which we're in the process of testing.
But rumors suggest that Sony is about to finally spring into life. It hasn't released any new cameras this year, but Sony Alpha Rumors has predicted the arrival of a new APS-C model in the video-focused ZV series and the Sony A7R V, which will likely be its high-resolution model for landscape shooters. Expect to see at least a couple of new entries in this list by the end of the year.
Video may now be an increasingly big focus for today's best cameras, but photos are still their core skill. And thanks to advances in autofocus and burst shooting power, there are a lot of impressive contenders for the title of best camera for photography. Luckily, we've spent hours testing all of them to bring you this regularly updated guide to the finest models around for stills shooting.
There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to cameras. The right choice for you will depend on several factors, including your budget, personal design preferences, lens needs and more. To help make your decision a bit easier, we've split this guide into three skill levels: enthusiasts, novices, advanced. Each one contains our pick of the best cameras for those experience levels and budgets.
What do we think is the best camera for photography overall? Right now, it's the Sony A7 IV. While its attempt to cover all bases comes with the odd compromise (like relatively modest burst-shooting speeds for the price), the A7 IV is still a powerful all-rounder that's at home shooting pretty many any type of photography, from portraits to wildlife and weddings.
The A7 IV is definitely a pricey camera for non-professionals, though, so we've also included lots of options that are cheaper or offer better bang for your buck. For those on a tighter budget, the Fujifilm X-T4 remains a strong alternative, even if rumors of an X-T5 are starting to surface. Hobbyist and street shooters should also definitely check out the Canon EOS R10 (our top pick for beginners), or the Nikon Zfc and Fujifilm X-S10. If none of those take your fancy, then have a leaf through our guide to the best cheap cameras you can buy right now.
This in-depth guide is based on countless hours of testing with all of the latest digital cameras from the biggest names in photography, including Canon, Sony, Nikon, Fujifilm, Panasonic, Leica and more. The result is that you can be confident we're including only the very best models here – the real question is which one if right for you. Thanks to our handy price comparison tool, you can also be sure that you're getting the right deal on the best camera for you.
THE BEST ENTHUSIAST CAMERAS FOR PHOTOGRAPHY
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Sony Alpha A7 IV
A near-perfect all-rounder that’s great for stills and video
SPECIFICATIONS
Sensor size: Full-frame
Resolution: 33MP
Viewfinder: 3,690K dots
Monitor: 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen, 1,037K dots
Autofocus: 759-point AF
Maximum continuous shooting rate: 10fps
Movies: 4K at 60p
User level: Intermediate
Today's Best Deals
US$2,498 at Amazon
https://amzn.to/3Lwdm3q
REASONS TO BUY
+Impressive 33MP sensor
+Class-leading autofocus
+Vari-angle screen
REASONS TO AVOID
-Heavily cropped 4K footage
-Complex for beginners
Following Sony’s fantastic A7 III was never going to be easy, but the A7 IV is a worthy successor. Equipped with a new 33MP sensor that’s solid for both stills and video, it’s a compelling mirrorless option for hybrid shooters. In our review, we called it a "brilliant blend of photographic power and video versatility".
A price hike does mean it’s no longer an entry-level full-frame camera like its forebear, but a Bionz XR processor powers solid performance that broadly justifies the extra expenditure.
The A7 IV also benefits from Sony’s class-leading autofocus skills, plus upgrades like 10-bit video support and a seemingly endless buffer depth with a CFexpress card. Our tests found this buffer to be more generous than most shooters will need, with image quality leaning more towards resolution than low-light performance.
No hybrid camera comes without compromise: there is a heavy crop on 4K footage and it isn't the simplest camera for beginners to use. The Canon EOS R6 also offers faster burst speeds for a similar price. But considering its powerful versatility and higher resolution, the Sony A7 IV deservedly takes our number one spot.
Fujifilm X-T4
The best all-round camera for most people
SPECIFICATIONS
Sensor size: APS-C
Resolution: 26.1MP
Viewfinder: 3,690K dots
Monitor: 3.0-inch tilt-angle touchscreen, 1,620K dots
Autofocus: 425-point AF
Maximum continuous shooting rate: 15fps (mechanical shutter), 30fps (electronic)
Movies: 4K at 60p
User level: Intermediate
Today's Best Deals
$1,759 at Amazon
https://amzn.to/3Lxk0qj
REASONS TO BUY
+Superb image quality
+IBIS a big bonus for video
REASONS TO AVOID
-No headphone jack
-Video recording limit
It isn't a full-frame camera, but in our review we called the Fujifilm X-T4 the best APS-C camera we've ever tested – and its blend of features, size and value make it a fine choice for hobbyist shooters. The X-T4 builds on the Fujifilm X-T3's impressive foundation by adding in-body image stabilization (IBIS), faster burst shooting and some successful design tweaks. Adding to its all-rounder skills are a bigger battery (which keeps it going for 500 shots per charge) and some improved autofocus, which our tests found to be fast and reliable in most scenarios.
We think the X-T4's 26MP APS-C sensor is class-leading for stills photography, but the X-T4 is also a superb video camera. The in-body image stabilization (IBIS) is a big bonus here, and the X-T4 backs that up with a huge range of tools and a great shooting experience, including a fully articulating touchscreen. It might cost the same as some full-frame cameras, but the X-T4 and its fine range of X-series lenses make a great, smaller alternative for those looking for a mirrorless all-rounder. Despite the looming possibility of a Fujifilm X-H2, it remains one of the best cameras for photography.
Canon EOS R6
A superb camera with best-in-class features
SPECIFICATIONS
Sensor size: Full-frame
Resolution: 20.1MP
Viewfinder: 3,690K dots
Monitor: 3.0-inch tilt-angle touchscreen, 1,620K dots
Autofocus: 6,072-point AF
Maximum continuous shooting rate: 12fps (mechanical shutter), 20fps (electronic)
Movies: 4K at 60p
User level: Professional
Today's Best Deals
$2,499.00 at Amazon
https://amzn.to/3qVIjoo
REASONS TO BUY
+Class-leading autofocus
+Excellent full-frame IBIS
+Dual card slots
REASONS TO AVOID
-Video recording limits
-20MP resolution
While the Canon EOS R5 is overkill for most people, the EOS R6 is a more affordable full-frame alternative that is simply one of the best cameras for photography around. If you already own one of Canon's early mirrorless full-framers like the EOS R, or any of its DSLRs, this is a more than worthy upgrade. Based on our review, the EOS R6 brings best-in-class autofocus, a superb in-body image stabilization system, and burst shooting powers that mark it out as a very fine camera for wildlife or sports photography.
Despite its ability to shoot 4K/60p video, the EOS R6 lacks options like the ability to DCI 4K and we found it to have overheating limitations compared to video-focused rivals like the Sony A7S III, making it better suited to stills photographers. But for photography, it's an excellent (if pricey) option that delivers hugely impressive autofocus, handling and features that make it one of the best options around for anyone who needs a full-frame camera.
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OM System OM-1
A brilliant all-rounder for those who don't need full-frame
SPECIFICATIONS
Sensor size: Micro Four Thirds
Resolution: 20.4MP
Viewfinder: 5,760K dots
Monitor: 3.0-inch tilt-angle touchscreen, 1,620K dots
Autofocus: 1,053-point AF
Maximum continuous shooting rate: 10fps (mechanical shutter), 120fps (electronic)
Movies: 4K at 60p
User level: Intermediate/Professional
Today's Best Deals
US$2,199.99 at Amazon
https://amzn.to/3BXG5ej
REASONS TO BUY
+Stacked sensor boosts performance
+Impressive stabilization
+Useful computational modes
REASONS TO AVOID
-Only 20MP resolution
-Slightly fiddly controls
Not everyone need a full-frame camera – and like the Fujifilm X-T4 (see no.2 above), the OM System OM-1 harnesses the benefits of its smaller sensor to create a compelling alternative for those whose priorities are size, versatility and a fun handheld experience. Thanks to its new stacked Micro Four Thirds sensor, which is the first of its kind, and a speedy TruePix X processor, the OM-1 performed admirably in most our tests. Quite simply, it's the one of the most enjoyable cameras you can buy.
We found that the OM-1 performed well up to ISO 1600 and had slightly less aggressive noise reduction than its Olympus-made predecessors. Its computational modes are also the best you'll find outside a smartphone, with the likes of HIgh Res Shot, Live ND and in-camera Focus Stacking going some way to compensating for its smaller sensor. On the downside, its autofocus tracking isn't quite up to the level of Canon or Sony, and the controls can be a little fiddly. That 20MP resolution also isn't huge for a camera of this price. But if you can overlook those drawbacks, then the OM-1 (and its huge range of Micro Four Thirds lenses) will make a fine companion.
Canon EOS R7
A fine choice for wildlife photographers
SPECIFICATIONS
Sensor size: APS-C
Resolution: 32.5MP
Viewfinder: 2,360K dots
Monitor: 3.0-inch tilt-angle touchscreen, 1,620K dots
Autofocus: 5,915-point AF
Maximum continuous shooting rate: 15fps (mechanical shutter), 30fps (electronic)
Movies: 4K at 60p
User level: Hobbyist / professional
Today's Best Deals
$1,899 at Amazon
https://amzn.to/3DMBs8p
REASONS TO BUY
+Speedy burst shooting
+Tenacious autofocus
+Great value
REASONS TO AVOID
-Limited native lenses
-No 4K/120p video mode
If you like shooting fast-moving subjects like wildlife and can't quite stretch to a full-frame Canon camera like the EOS R6, then the EOS R7 is great choice. It has a smaller APS-C sensor, so its high ISO performance isn't as strong as its full-frame siblings, but the benefit is that you can get longer reach from smaller lenses. The EOS R7 also packs in fast burst speeds, with our tests backing up its claims of 15fps continuous shooting (with the mechanical shutter) or 30fps if you switch to the electronic shutter. You can't sustain those speeds for quite as long as a camera like the EOS R6, but a few seconds is enough to capture most wildlife subjects.
Other big bonus of Canon's EOS R system are its subject-tracking autofocus skills and the EOS R7 inherits these, too. Our tests found this to be a dream for wildlife, action and sports subjects. We were also fans of its chunky grip, which makes it comfortable to hold with long lenses, and the inclusion of dual UHS-II card slots, which means it's a camera that could also tempt pros looking for a second body. The only downside right now is the lack of native lenses for the EOS R7's APS-C sensor, with only two available at the time of writing. Still, you can always mount today's full-frame RF lenses or adapt older EF lenses while you wait for Canon to make more.
Nikon Z6 II
No longer the mirrorless king, but not far behind
SPECIFICATIONS
Sensor size: Full-frame
Resolution: 24.5MP
Viewfinder: 3,690K dots
Monitor: 3.2-inch tilt-angle touchscreen, 2,100K dots
Autofocus: 273-point hybrid AF
Maximum continuous shooting rate: 14fpsMovies: 4K at 30p
User level: Intermediate/expert
Today's Best Deals
$2,746.90 at Amazon
https://amzn.to/3RXrJAa
REASONS TO BUY
+Excellent image quality
+Great handling
REASONS TO AVOID
-Not the most advanced AF
-Screen isn't vari-angle
The Nikon Z6 reigned as the king of this list for a long time – and while the Z6 II is only a modest successor, it should definitely be on the shortlist of anyone who's looking for a full-frame camera. The Z6 continues to offer great value, but we think the Z6 II is worth the extra cost if you can afford it - it's one of our favourites from our reviewing experience.
Its extra Expeed 6 processor brings a host of improvements, including new 14fps burst mode (up from 12fps on the Z6) and some handy autofocus boosts (particularly for animal eye/face detection). You also get an extra UHS-II card slot, which joins the existing XQD/CFexpress slot, and a firmware update has delivered a new 4K/60p video mode.
Our tests found in a range of scenarios found that the 24MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor performs well at high ISOs. The Z6 II also has class-leading build quality that feels more substantial in the hand than its rivals.
Fujifilm X-S10
An affordable, versatile all-rounder for hobbyists
SPECIFICATIONS
Sensor size: APS-C
Resolution: 26.1MP
Viewfinder: 2.36m dots
Monitor: 3-inch articulating touchscreen, 1.04m dots
Autofocus: 425-point hybrid AF
Maximum continuous shooting rate: 8fps (mechanical), 20fps (electronic shutter)
Movies: 4K at 30p
User level: Beginner/intermediate
Today's Best Deals
US$999 at Amazon
https://amzn.to/3Sep4lC
REASONS TO BUY
+Superb image and video quality
+IBIS in a small body
+Excellent handling
REASONS TO AVOID
-Not weather-proof
It's hard to think of another camera that offers the same blend of size, performance, affordability and charm as the Fujifilm X-S10. For both hobbyists and pros looking for a small mirrorless camera, it's an excellent choice that covers all the bases for both stills and video. As our review discovered, you get a tried-and-tested 26.1MP APS-C sensor (the same as the one in the Fujifilm X-T4, see above) and, impressively for a camera this small, in-body image stabilization (IBIS).
This feature, which helps you preserve image quality while shooting handheld, can also be found in some small Sony and Olympus cameras, but none of those offer the X-S10's excellent handling or range of features, based on our testing. It has a handy vari-angle screen, great build quality, and shoots impressive 4K video, too. Pair it with a prime lens and you have a fine travel or street camera – thanks to X-S10's large grip, though, it'll also match nicely with longer lenses as well.
Nikon Z5
The best entry-level full-frame camera you can buy
SPECIFICATIONS
Type: MirrorlessSensor
size: Full-frame
Resolution: 24.3MP
Viewfinder: 3.69million dots
Screen type: 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen, 1.04m dots
Maximum continuous shooting speed: 4.5fps
Movies: 4K/30p
User level: Beginner
Today's Best Deals
$1,893.90 at Amazon
https://amzn.to/3xCh9GE
REASONS TO BUY
+Excellent viewfinder
+Very capable AF system
+Comfy grip and solid build
REASONS TO AVOID
-Lacklustre burst rate
-Cropped 4K video
Despite not being perfect, the Nikon Z5 is the best entry-level full-frame model you can buy right now, making it a great option for those looking to upgrade to the larger sensor for the first time. With a 24.3MP that reliably produces vibrant, sharp and clean images, a reliable autofocusing system and a comfy and well-built body, there's a lot we liked about the Nikon Z5 during our testing.
Equipping it with the same high-resolution viewfinder as its more advanced Z6/Z7 siblings is a nice touch that adds a touch of premium quality to proceedings. What lets the Z5 down are things that some might not even be too bothered about – the 4.5fps maximum frame rate being underwhelming for action shooters, and the crop applied to 4K video being frustrating for vloggers. Not bothered by either of those things? It's one of the best cameras for photography and a fine choice for those who want full-frame on a budget.