Using the best cameras for astrophotography means you have the best chance of capturing some of the most beautiful photographs possible of our night sky. Here at Space.com, we have tested and reviewed a whole host of models and we've rounded up the ones that we think are best for photographing the stars.
Above each camera's description, you'll see a list of retailers where you can buy that model and the most competitive prices, which can make your search easier. We've carefully selected a variety of versatile cameras that excel in different photography styles, with a special focus on their exceptional performance in astrophotography.
The list in brief ↴
1. Best dedicated astro camera
2. Best color astrocam
3. Best mirrorless
4. Best Sony for astro
5. Best rugged option
6. Best entry-level full-frame
7. Best DSLR overall
8. Best for low light
9. Best pro camera
10. Best for timelapse
11. Best for versatility
12. Best value for money
13. Best lightweight model
14. Best budget option
15. Best astro cameras FAQs
18. How we test
They have a broad dynamic range, so you shouldn't have any problems pulling out the brightest and darkest elements in your shot (also handy for landscape and portrait photography), and they all perform well in unfavorable lighting conditions. They also have excellent ISO performance to reduce unwanted noise. Such capabilities also lend themselves to indoor shooting at events such as weddings and concerts. For more of our favorite generalist cameras, head over to our best cameras for photos and videos guide.
Alongside our picks of the best cameras for astrophotography, we have also created a guide to the best lenses for astrophotography. If you're really looking for 'wow factor' results, pairing your astro-friendly camera with one of the best telescopes can take your astrophotography journey to the next level. If you're working on a tight budget, we think the Canon EOS R is the best budget model on this list.
The quick list
Best dedicated astro camera
This is a dedicated scope-mounted astro-camera. It is full-color and has an onboard cooling system to minimize noise for long-exposure astrophotography. You also receive a plethora of accessories for serious astro work such as deep sky imaging.
Best color astro camera
Lighter and smaller than the aforementioned model but by no means inferior. You'll need experience with dedicated astro cameras but with practice, you'll be able to produce some awe-inspiring images, especially of the planets.
Best mirrorless camera for astro
This is simply one of the best cameras on the market. For low-light photography, it has Starlight View which drops the autofocus detection range down to -9EV, the best we've ever seen. There's even a dedicated Night Vision mode that keeps your night vision intact.
Best Sony for astro
This is the highest-resolution full-frame camera that produces incredible-quality images that display incredible detail in both light and dark areas — ideal for astrophotography. You can push the ISO to ISO 6400 before seeing any troublesome noise.
Best rugged option
With excellent weather sealing, you don't have to worry about dust or moisture ingress with this compelling all-round package. The second memory card slot gives peace of mind and you can even leave the shutter open for 15 minutes for those wonderful star trail photos.
Best entry-level full-frame camera
This is Canon's lightest mirrorless body, it's slim too so highly portable. It is exceptional at handling high ISO, even over ISO 5000 we were astounded— fantastic at this price point.
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Best DSLR
The backlit buttons make shooting in the dark much easier. You can achieve great high-resolution stills that easily rival newer mirrorless models. The autofocus detection range goes as low as -4EV, and you can use the built-in timelapse feature to capture a series of images effortlessly.
Best low-light mirrorless
The RAW files from your astro shoot will retain good detail and contrast up to ISO 12,800. The most impressive thing is the high dynamic range. Pull impressive detail out of the shadows without discoloration. It also boasts outstanding weather sealing.
Best pro-level camera
If you shoot more styles other than astrophotography, particularly sports, action and wildlife, this is one of the best pro-level cameras on the market — it can do everything. It has great weather sealing and boasts impressive low-light performance.
Best for timelapse astro
Astrophotographers will love the 4K timelapse feature, and the vari-angle touchscreen display makes composing your shots easy. You get a lot of camera for the money, so it's perfect for beginners.
Best for versatility
There is a lot of tech packed into this stylish, compact and ergonomic Fujifilm X-T5. Though the dials will take a bit of getting used to, the image stabilization is good in low-light so you can shoot handheld at slower shutter speeds with better results than a camera without IS. The auto White balance is accurate, and you can capture time-lapses without needing a separate intervalometer.
Best value for money
Because this is relatively old now, it has become an excellent value for money, with low light performance above average, and the happiest when shooting long exposures, perfect for traditional astrophotography. It would be ideal for users who are transitioning from Smartphones.
Best lightweight model
Sony is well known for producing cameras with excellent ISO performance and this is no different. It's robust but lightweight and features a tilting screen for easy composition. It features a high-performance battery and in-body image stabilization and you can push the ISO high before seeing noise.
Best budget option
The Nikon Z6 has excellent low-light autofocus. Now it has been superseded; you should be able to pick up a body for a very reasonable price. Its superb ISO range and a backlit sensor for impressive image quality and clarity.
Best cameras for astrophotography we recommend in 2023
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Best dedicated astro camera
✅ You're looking for an affordable dedicated astro camera: The onboard cooling system helps minimize noise during long exposure shots. It's also suitable for short exposure lunar and planetary imaging.
❌ You want to shoot other styles: This is a dedicated astro camera, opt for one of the other best cameras for astrophotography that aren't dedicated models.
🔎 ZWO Optical ASI533MC Pro: A great option for individuals looking for a dedicated astro-imaging camera at an affordable price. ★★★★★
One of the top-selling points of the ZWO Optical ASI 533 Pro camera is the ability to produce clean, noise-free images without having to use editing software. With zero amp glow to remove in post-processing, productivity increases — you can achieve cleaner and sharper images straight out of the camera.
Anyone who prefers monochrome cameras will be disappointed because the ASI533 is only offered in color. But it's still a good option with 80% Quantum Efficiency and a fast frame rate of 20 frames per second (FPS). This means it can detect light really well and work effectively in low-light conditions.
The camera has a 9-megapixel square sensor, which might seem a bit unusual, but it's actually quite capable. It can capture images with very little noise and has a wide range of colors thanks to its 14-bit ADC. So, it's great for taking high-quality, noise-free pictures in high definition.
Comparable to most dedicated astro-cameras, the ZWO Optical ASI 533 needs an external power source to run the cooling system — you'll need this working if you plan on taking very long exposures.
Our ZWO Optical ASI 533 Pro review identified this camera as an affordable, user-friendly, dedicated astro-imaging camera. We struggled to find any negatives, scoring this camera top marks with five out of five stars.
- Read our ZWO Optical ASI533MC Pro review
| Attributes | Notes |
|---|---|
| Design | Heavy for its size |
| Performance | Clean data quality |
| Functionality | Great pixel size for longer focal length telescopes |
Best color astro camera
✅ You're looking for an affordable dedicated astro camera: The onboard cooling system helps minimize noise during long exposure shots. It's also suitable for short exposure lunar and planetary imaging.
❌ You want to shoot other styles: This is a dedicated astro camera, opt for one of the other best cameras for astrophotography that aren't dedicated models.
🔎 ZWO Optical ASI183MC Pro: A great option for individuals looking for a dedicated astro-imaging camera at an affordable price. ★★★★½
The compact ZWO Optical ASI 183MC Pro is a fantastic dedicated astrophotography camera. We have identified this full-color camera as one of the best at minimizing noise at long exposures, largely thanks to its onboard cooling system.
The ASI 183MC is a small and lightweight astro-camera, weighing just 0.9 lb (410g) and measuring 62mm in diameter. Despite its compact size, it's not lacking in features. It offers a high resolution of 20.48 megapixels, very low read noise at 1.6e, and an impressive peak Quantum Efficiency of 84%. What's more, it has a full-color sensor, which means you don't need to use extra RGB filters when taking photos. This simplifies your photography setup and reduces the gear you need to carry. It is a serious astrophotography camera, and you'll need to have experience with dedicated astro cameras to get the most out of it. Read our in-depth ZWO ASI183MC review to see what can be achieved.
The ZWO Optical ASI 183 can shoot an admirable 19FPS at maximum resolution, perfect for solar or lunar images. The frame rate increases dramatically at a lower resolution and can capture hundreds of frames per second!
The ASI 183 requires a laptop and dedicated software — with a USB-A 3.0 port, data is transferred quickly and efficiently. You'll also need a telescope and a 12V power supply to operate the cooling system.
- Read our full ZWO Optical ASI183MC Pro review
| Attributes | Notes |
|---|---|
| Design | Small and lightweight |
| Performance | 19FPS perfect for solar/lunar photography |
| Functionality | Requires dedicated software |
Best mirrorless camera for astro
✅ You can afford to: Simply put, if you have the budget, there's no reason not to buy this camera — it will be a reliable photography and astrophotography companion for years to come.
❌ You want something lightweight and portable: This is a professional camera with huge functionality, it is larger than less sophisticated models.
🔎 Nikon Z8: We think this is the best camera available on the market. If you are lucky enough to have a huge amount of cash to play with, go for it. ★★★★★
The Nikon Z8, launched in May 2023 is Nikon's latest mirrorless camera, and it is an absolute behemoth in every respect. It's an astrophotographer's dream thanks to its expanded ISO 102,400.
The autofocus system on this camera is both speedy and accurate. It also excels in recognizing subjects' eyes accurately, even in low-light situations. In fact, it can detect subjects in lighting conditions as dim as -7EV, which is as good as or even better than nearly every other camera we've ever tested. In Starlight View (in menu d9), the autofocus detection range drops to as low as -9EV; this is the best we've ever seen. There's even a night vision mode. This mode is customizable but automatically shows a dim screen and electronic viewfinder and only uses red pixels to preserve your night vision.
Aside from the astrophotography functionality, we think this is the best camera available on the market; there's no other camera (that we've come across) that can perform so well on such a variety of shoots. It's a hefty investment but it will last you a lifetime of photography.
- Read our full Nikon Z8 review
| Attributes | Notes |
|---|---|
| Design | Outstanding build quality |
| Performance | Starlight mode enables autofocus detection down to an unheard of -9EV |
| Functionality | Night vision mode for astrophotographers |
Best Sony for astro
✅ You shoot astrophotography and other styles: This is a great camera for photographers who shoot a range of styles but also shoot astrophotography.
❌ Your computer or storage system can't handle larger files: The massive 61-megapixel sensor creates huge files that could be too much of a test for your existing file storage or computer processor setup.
❌ You also shoot action or sports: It wouldn't operate fast enough with its current buffer speed when shooting at full resolution.
🔎 Sony A7R IV: It's hard to beat this camera; the image quality is fantastic, it's highly customizable and it's great in low light. ★★★★½
The Sony A7R IV features a 3-inch LCD screen with an increased resolution of 2.36 million compared to the older model's 1.44 million dots. With the higher resolution, the battery life is slightly hindered, although we still believe it is excellent, and you would be able to shoot a long session without too much worry. Other differences are cosmetic, such as removing the Sony logo from underneath the LCD screen.
As evidenced in the Sony A7R IV review, this camera has exceptional performance and image quality. While the new Sony A7R V which we've also reviewed is a fantastic camera, we think the A7R IV is the better astro option for now because the V has noisier high ISO performance and costs more.
This camera can capture amazing details in both bright and dark areas, which makes it ideal for astrophotography and, in our opinion, difficult to beat. When using a high-sensitivity setting like ISO 6400, you can use the images without seeing any noticeable noise. However, if you boost the ISO higher than this, you'll start to see more noise, which is to be expected. Although, now that some of the best photo editing apps now have pretty impressive AI denoise capabilities, it makes this camera even more usable for astrophotography.
Tactile buttons are a welcome addition to the camera, particularly when shooting at night while wearing gloves.
When you capture massive 61-megapixel images, they take up a lot of space on your computer, and processing them can be demanding. However, many full-frame cameras now come with an APS-C mode, where you can quickly switch it to a 26-megapixel camera with a 1.5x crop factor — as if you were using an APS-C camera with a full frame lens. This reduces the image size, making it easier to store and process, all with just the press of a button.
The A7R IVA doesn't have a fully articulating screen (something they've majorly improved in the Sont A7R V); however, it does tilt so you can still capture stunning images without needing to bend down.
- We've yet to review the Sony A7R IVA but you can read our full Sony A7R IV review in the meantime
| Attributes | Notes |
|---|---|
| Design | Tilt only screen |
| Performance | Incredible image quality |
| Functionality | Massive 61MP sensor means noisy images |
Best rugged option
✅ You're a Nikon purist: The menus, layout and overall functionality surpass those of Canon's mirrorless cameras in a few areas.
❌ You already own the Nikon Z6: The revision isn't enough to warrant purchasing the Z6 II as an upgrade.
🔎Nikon Z6 II: A great second camera for professionals, or first-timers jumping into the world of mirrorless cameras. ★★★★
The Nikon Z6 II is the upgraded version of the Nikon Z6 and if you are upgrading from a beginner model, recording video, or plan to shoot various styles in addition to astrophotography, it is worth considering. If you can spare the extra dollars — as we found in our Nikon Z6 II review, this model benefits from a little more refinement.
The Z6 II retained the features of its previous version while adding some small but extremely effective upgrades. The addition of a second memory card slot is particularly handy because it serves as a backup when you're taking photos. The camera also boasts a faster burst rate, improved focus, quicker image processing and the ability to shoot 4K video at 60FPS.
You have more in-camera control over long exposures thanks to the larger range of shutter speeds. The slowest shutter speed is a whopping 900 seconds (15 minutes), so pair it with one of the best star trackers and you could get some seriously detailed astro shots. With excellent weather sealing, you could even capture images during heavy rain or dust storms if you wanted to!
- Read our full Nikon Z6 II review
| Attributes | Notes |
|---|---|
| Design | Durable feel, good weather sealing |
| Performance | Excellent for stills and video |
| Functionality | Many small upgrades from predecessor |
Best entry-level full-frame
✅ You want something lightweight: This is the lightest mirrorless Canon body available; its slim body makes it very portable, too.
❌ You like having two card slots: There is only one single SD UHS-II card slot; this can create anxiety for photographers who like using a second slot for a backup card.
🔎 Canon EOS R8: A good entry into Canon's full-frame mirrorless system without breaking the bank. ★★★★½
The second most affordable way into Canon's full-frame mirrorless ecosystem and the lightest mirrorless Canon body available, this camera, as we discovered in our Canon EOS R8 review is a surprising victor in the astrophotography realm and handles high ISO noise particularly well.
If you're a photographer looking to get into Canon's full-frame mirrorless system without breaking the bank on the priciest models, the Canon EOS R8 is a tough option to beat. Because it's a full-frame mirrorless camera, you can make full use of the entire field of view provided by RF-mount lenses, unlike APS-C crop sensor cameras that only utilize part of the lens's field of view.
Something the Canon EOS R8 does lack is in-body image stabilization, which is one of the reasons why this camera is so affordable. That said, the lack of IBIS won't affect astrophotographers as you'll always be using a tripod when taking long exposures of the night sky (and many full-frame lenses have image stabilization themselves). Saving money by purchasing this camera instead of more expensive models works well when photographers are considering purchasing the best lenses for astrophotography which are generally big, fast lenses like the Canon RF 28-70mm f/2L USM or Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM.
- Read our full Canon EOS R8 review
| Attributes | Notes |
|---|---|
| Design | Slim, portable body |
| Performance | Great high ISO handling for astro |
| Functionality | Video stabilization less impressive than more expensive Canon models |
Best DSLR overall
✅ You want a range of astro-specific features: Backlit buttons, a huge ISO sensitivity range and excellent noise-handling capability, as well as the flip-out touchscreen and an in-built timelapse feature make this an ideal camera for astrophotography.
❌ You want a mirrorless camera: DSLR cameras are typically being faded out by brands who are now focussed on mirrorless models. DSLRs are becoming somewhat old-fashioned.
🔎 Nikon D850: Despite being an older DSLR, it was built to last, and still easily rivals the newer mirrorless models, especially when it comes to astrophotography. ★★★★½
The Nikon D850 can easily compete with high-end mirrorless models, even though it could now be considered a dated DSLR full-frame camera. With reliable and durable weather sealing it is built to last in all environments and weather conditions, perfect for professionals and enthusiasts alike. The five-year-old EXPEED 5 processor impressively gives a remarkable ISO range (up to 102,400) and fast image processing speed.
The D850 is lightweight and strong — built using an aluminum alloy. With backlit buttons it makes shooting in the dark much easier; we discuss this further in our Nikon D850 review. It has an impressive dynamic range and an interval timer for stunning time-lapses.
An astrophotographer's dream, the D850 can autofocus down to -4EV with a Multi-CAM 20K autofocus sensor module with TTL phase detection. With a huge 153 autofocus points, the D850 is perfect for capturing images of stars and other space subjects.
The continuous burst frame rate might seem slow at 9FPS, but it's important to remember that each image is a substantial 45.7 megapixels. The D850 can also make time-lapse videos and records in 4K at 30FPS. When shooting videos, it uses "live" zebra stripes to highlight possible exposure problems. This means you can adjust the settings in real time instead of dealing with exposure issues later in the editing process.
- Read our full Nikon D850 review
| Attributes | Notes |
|---|---|
| Design | Bulky compared to mirrorless equivalents |
| Performance | Excellent dynamic range in photographs |
| Functionality | Autofocus detection range down to -4EV |
Best low light mirrorless camera
✅ You want a 'jack of all trades': The Sony A7 III is a great generalist camera; while it's good for astrophotography, it is also an excellent all-rounder for both stills photography and video.
❌ You like a clean menu system: Though Sony has improved its menu system on its latest cameras, the A7 III still feels harder to navigate than it should in some areas.
🔎 Sony A7 III: Great for generalist photographers who also shoot astro. Though it isn't marketed as being a camera with astrophotographers in mind, its low-light performance is impressive. ★★★★½
Even at five years old and with two successors, the mirrorless Sony A7 II is still a firm favorite with astrophotographers. Even with a less detailed electronic viewfinder than the newer models, it still offers a useful exposure-ramped view to aid in producing impressive astrophotos.
With a low light autofocus detection of -3EV, it isn't as sophisticated as other models but still performs well. As discussed in our Sony A7 III review, we were particularly impressed with the high dynamic range — something Sony is well known for and enables you to recover excellent detail from the shadows.
Producing images at an ISO of 51,200 is effortless, and the camera does an excellent job of managing noise, resulting in impressive image quality. You can even push it further to a whopping ISO 204,800 for still photos. Additionally, this camera is capable of capturing 4K UHD videos at a smooth 30FPS.
The Sony A7 III is CIPA-rated well above average for a mirrorless camera of this type and can shoot 710 still shots via the rear LCD monitor on one battery. It's slightly more expensive than competitors in its class, (although the price is always decreasing as it ages); however, the A7 III performs incredibly well in low light and is adaptable enough to excel in other photography styles.
- Read our full Sony A7 III review
| Attributes | Notes |
|---|---|
| Design | Newer models have improvements |
| Performance | Incredible low-light video performance |
| Functionality | Low stills resolution compared to competition |
Best pro-level camera
✅ You want a camera that can handle anything: This is the most technologically advanced and innovative Sony camera to date, and one of the best mirrorless cameras ever built.
❌ You can't afford to: It's sat at a price point realistically reserved for those who earn a living through their photography. There are plenty of much more affordable models that will offer more than enough functionality for most photographers.
🔎 Sony A1: It's ridiculously expensive but worth the investment if you will use it on a daily basis to make the money back through your work. It can do everything. ★★★★½
To date, the Sony A1 holds the title of Sony's most expensive full-frame mirrorless camera. It boasts a massive 50.1-megapixel sensor, an exceptionally detailed 9.44 million-dot electronic viewfinder and can even capture breathtaking 8K video. It's perfect for capturing beautiful images and creating time-lapses of the night sky. It also offers an impressive dynamic range, is completely weather-sealed and comes with two memory card slots.
You'll be looking at an RRP price of around $6500 to purchase this camera — and that's before you add on any compatible lenses. This price is way out of budget for most non-professional photographers, particularly those who are only interested in shooting astrophotography. Even secondhand, this camera is still holding its value. It is a brilliant camera; however, its expense is why it's further down in the ranks in this guide.
If you're a professional shooting multiple photography styles, this camera will suit you well for astro shooting alongside other subjects. The 50.1 MP sensor may ring some alarm bells for professional astro shooters, as typically higher resolution sensors produce more image noise. But like other Sony cameras, this camera is so good in low light that noise isn't a problem, especially if you have taken enough calibration frames. In our Sony A1 review, we were very impressed with the astro shots it produced using the interval shooting feature.
Unfortunately, the screen doesn't fully articulate and is tilted only. For this price bracket, we would expect it to have a fully articulating screen to make shooting skyward easier. Although it's annoying, we don't feel this is a deal breaker when purchasing this exceptional camera.
- Read our full Sony A1 review
| Attributes | Notes |
|---|---|
| Design | Tilt screen only is disappointing |
| Performance | Impressive dynamic range |
| Functionality | Can do pretty much anything |
Best for timelapse astro
✅ You're making the leap to full-frame photography: This is an excellent introduction to full-frame. The large viewfinder makes it easy to compose shots and it powers up and is ready to go in an instant. The results straight out of the camera are very pleasing and makes it enjoyable to use.
❌ You're a pro photographer: We found that the 6D Mk II lacks the dynamic range needed for pro photographers to feel confident, for example, when underexposing and pulling detail out in post-processing.
❌ Having only one SD card slot worries you: Many photographers, especially pros, prefer more than one card slot so one can be used as backup, or just for more storage.
🔎 Canon 6D Mk II: A great introduction to full-frame photography. It has excellent connectivity capabilities and produces impressive images straight from the camera. ★★★★½
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II stands out as one of Canon's top DSLR cameras for astrophotography. It's a great option particularly for beginners because it's so affordable, making it ideal for those who are just getting started with astrophotography. While it may not have all the latest features you'll find in mirrorless cameras, this full-frame camera offers excellent value for money.
In timelapse mode, this camera can shoot in 4K and is ideal for capturing detailed time-lapses of the night sky, especially when combined with a star tracker. Our Canon EOS 6D Mark II review identified that it is best to avoid this model if you're shooting fast action in low light; however, this is not an issue for astrophotography. Image composition is easy with a fully articulating touchscreen display; this is advantageous when shooting skyward.
For standard video recording, this camera shoots in full HD 1080p at a smooth 60 frames per second (FPS), but it doesn't offer 4K video capability. The EOS 6D Mark II has a somewhat limited dynamic range, but with enough calibration frames and after doing some post-processing, this limitation can be overcome and is forgivable.
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II only has a single SD card slot; this may worry those of us who enjoy longer shooting sessions or who want the safety net of a backup SD card. With 102,400 expandable ISO and 26.2MP stills capture, this alleviates the pressure knowing results will be clear and crisp every time.
- Read our full Canon EOS 6D Mark II review
| Attributes | Notes |
|---|---|
| Design | Body feels a bit clunky |
| Performance | Good low light performance |
| Functionality | Low dynamic range |
Best for versatility
✅ You'd benefit from in-body image stabilization: Seven stops of image stabilization make this ideal for shooting sports and action without requiring a tripod.
❌You primarily shoot astro: While this is a great all-rounder that performs well in low light, it is by no means an astrophotography specialist.
🔎 Fujifilm X-T5: With a 40-megapixel sensor and high-speed processor, the X-T5 packs a lot into a compact body, but some might find the traditional handling and APS-C sensor isn’t ideal for night sky photography. ★★★★
The Fujifilm X-T5 is the younger model of the (still excellent) Fujifilm X-T4, and despite the addition of several upgrades, the price point is similar.
Sticking with a stylish timeless design — the Fuji X-T5 has functional on-body dials. As we found in our Fujifilm X-T5 review these dials take some getting used to, but once you do, some users find them easier to use in the dark over navigating menus. Superseding the X-T4's 26.1MP with a 40.21 MP CMOS sensor, the X-T5 also has twice the processing speed of its predecessor and greater picture quality.
The X-T5 uses an NP-W235 battery and, in regular everyday use, it can take around 600 shots per charge according to CIPA ratings. You can extend this to about 740 shots if you switch to economy mode. While the battery life is impressive, it's worth noting that taking long-exposure shots for capturing the night sky can drain the battery faster, so in practice, you may get fewer shots in such situations.
This camera has two SD memory card slots, allowing you to simultaneously shoot JPGs and RAW files, use as a backup card or simply have double the amount of storage capacity.
With exceptional low-light performance, a high-speed processing engine, and seven stops of in-body image stabilization this camera is incredibly versatile and an excellent choice for both action and sports photography — it's also a top pick for timelapse photography. You may want to check out our alternative options for this capture style in our best cameras for timelapse videos article.
- Read our full Fujifilm X-T5 review
| Attributes | Notes |
|---|---|
| Design | Ergonomic design |
| Performance | Image noise at higher ISOs isn't class-leading |
| Functionality | Battery life is noticeably impressive |
Best value for money
✅ You want an excellent screen: The screen is large, clear and mobile. It can be flipped completely to face the inside of the camera. The touch sensitivity is superb and we like that you can set the focus point with your finger, like on a Smartphone.
❌You want to save a bit of cash for a very similar spec model: The slightly newer Canon EOS RP is about $500 less and has comparable stats, just 4MP fewer and a lower resolution, smaller screen. It's also a significant amount lighter.
🔎 Canon EOS R: The photos you get from the Canon EOS R are high quality, especially if you’re shooting at night. It sits at a reasonable price point that makes it good value for money, though newer rival models have eclipsed its functionality. ★★★½
At four years old, Canon's first-ever full-frame mirrorless RF system camera is still a firm favorite with astrophotographers.
As discussed in our Canon EOS R review, this camera isn't designed for robustness or even sleekness in its design. In comparison with the Nikon Z6, it feels fragile. The layout of the buttons could be more intuitive, but you will soon learn the positions with practice and time.
When it comes to functionality, especially in low-light conditions, the Canon EOS R performs better than most. It excels in capturing breathtaking long-exposure shots, making it an ideal choice for creating stunning astrophotographs. Plus, it processes images quickly with minimal buffer lag, making it great for action shots, sports photography or capturing a series of special moments in burst mode.
With an impressive, large vari-angle touchscreen display, users can set the focus with the touch of a finger — ideal for users who are transitioning up from their smartphones or if you struggle nailing focus.
- Read our full Canon EOS R review
| Attributes | Notes |
|---|---|
| Design | Lightweight and functional, but poor button layout |
| Performance | Clear images & excellent night performance |
| Functionality | Very customizable |
Best lightweight model
✅ You shoot sports and action as well as astro: It features Sony's class-leading real-time tracking.
✅ You appreciate long battery life: The Sony A6600 is powered by the high-performance Z battery — it has twice the capacity of the FW50 battery.
❌ You already own it's predecessor: Although it's an impressive camera, it's expensive for what it is and not much different to the previous model. You'd be better off putting the money towards a full-frame model.
🔎 Canon A6600: This lightweight camera punches well above its weight — exhibiting incredible image quality for still images and video. The A6600 would be ideal for almost any photographer, although you can get the same specs for a more competitive price from other manufacturers. ★★★½
Sony is well known for producing cameras with excellent ISO performance and the Sony A660 camera is no exception, making it a top choice for astrophotographers or photographers who regularly shoot in low light.
The build quality is excellent and the camera feels rugged and robust, but as mentioned in our Sony A6600 review, it is still compact and lightweight. With nicely pronounced buttons, they are easily accessible whilst wearing gloves and in low-light environments. Backlit buttons would be ideal for future models.
The sensor in the A6600 is the same as its predecessor (the Sony A6500) but its battery has had an upgrade. It is the first APS-C camera from Sony to use the high-performance Z-battery, boasting more than double the capacity of the preceding FW50 battery.
The tilting screen on this camera can make it a bit challenging to compose shots at tricky angles compared to one that fully articulates. However, besides being great for astrophotography, the Sony A6600 is also well-suited for sports and action photography thanks to its fast and highly accurate real-time tracking.
- Read our full Sony a6600 review
| Attributes | Notes |
|---|---|
| Design | Excellent build quality, but some strange design aspects |
| Performance | Impressive & accurate tracking |
| Functionality | Unusual for an APS-C camera to have IBIS |
Best budget option
✅ You want a good value for money option: Though the Nikon Z6ii quickly superseded this model, we think the Nikon is better value for money and is perfect for shooting in low light.
❌ You want an SD/ more than one memory card slot: There is only one memory card slot and it only takes CFexpress memory cards.
🔎 Nikon Z6: While not a perfect mirrorless camera, the Nikon Z6 gets so much right — superb ISO range, excellent handling and shooting, simple yet fully-featured menus, and all at a good price. ★★★★½
Nikon's mirrorless Z6 has been superseded by the Nikon Z6 II (featured further up in this guide) and the more recent Z7. Though the specs of the newer additions to the Z family read better on paper, for our money, we think the Z6 is the best model for astrophotography. With a lower resolution, the full-frame sensor in the Z6 produces less noise and has a quicker processing time. Furthermore, the Z6 is much cheaper than its newer alternatives.
The electronic viewfinder on this camera is impressive, showing highly detailed and true-to-life images with its 3.69 million dots. While the selection of Z-mount lenses is still growing and not as extensive as some other models we've talked about, you have the option to use a wide range of lenses from Nikon's extensive F-mount lens collection by using an FTZ adapter.
Our Nikon Z6 review found we could shoot up to ISO 12,800 with very little visible noise in the image. Perfect for evening landscapes, darkened objects, or astrophotography. The image quality only degrades slightly on the maximum and expanded settings.
- Read our full Nikon Z6 review
| Attributes | Notes |
|---|---|
| Design | Superb EVF |
| Performance | Amazing ISO capabilities |
| Functionality | Stills resolution is not the highest |
Best cameras for astrophotography: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best camera for astrophotography?
The ZWO Optical ASI533 Pro is the best dedicated astrophotography camera and the Sony A7R IVA (astronomy version of the Sony A7R IV) is the best mirrorless astrophotography camera because of their unique ability to capture detailed night sky images with minimal image noise.
How much should I spend on an astrophotography camera?
Anywhere from $550 to $3000 depending on the model and type of camera. Dedicated astro cameras are generally cheaper than mirrorless or DSLR models and perform excellently in astrophotography conditions but are otherwise not usable for generalist photography. Mirrorless and DSLR cameras on the other hand can be used for all kinds of photos including portraiture, landscapes, wildlife, sports and more.
Which is best for astro crop sensor or full-frame?
Which is better for astrophotography APS-C or 35mm image sensors?
Full-frame cameras are generally best for astrophotography because they suffer less from high ISO image noise and have the ability to capture a wider dynamic range. However, there are many APS-C models that perform excellently in astrophotography, as can be seen in our guide.
What's the difference between crop sensor and full-frame?
Full-frame cameras have an image sensor that matches the size of 35mm analog film. APS-C cameras have cropped image sensors that are smaller. Full-frame image sensors are generally around 1.5x bigger than APS-C crop sensors.
A bigger image sensor means more photosites (pixels) can be put on a sensor. However, the additional benefit is that if it uses the same amount of photosites as a crop sensor there is more space on the sensor for larger photosites and more sophisticated connections that help reduce image noise. Image noise is prevalent in astrophotography because of the higher ISO sensitivities (higher sensitivity to light) required when imaging dark skies.
What is the best budget camera for astrophotography?
What's the best camera for astrophotography beginners?
The ZWO Optical ASI183MC Pro is the best budget dedicated astro camera in our round-up but it is limited to pure astrophotography and in monochromatic (not color).
The best budget mirrorless camera for astrophotography is the Canon EOS R which is the cheapest mirrorless model in our guide but still performs impressively in low light. This camera probably suits beginner astrophotographers better if they are interested in generalist daytime photography as well.
What features should I look for in an astrophotography camera?
Image clarity is critical, and you'll find that larger sensors with fewer pixels can capture astro shots with minimal image noise. By negating the effects of image noise, we're able to process imagery more efficiently with better-detailed results.
While not particularly useful for astrophotography, autofocus may still be helpful for those who want to combine night-time shooting with near-twilight landscapes that show the brightest stars, planets, and satellites hanging above a beautiful foreground. A low EV rating on the autofocus ability is crucial for sharp shots in the dark.
Cameras with illuminated buttons will help preserve night vision, especially when combined with a red light headlamp.
What are dedicated astro cameras?
Specialist astrophotography cameras are geared toward photographing the night sky. Long exposures keep circuitry running for long periods and electronic components can heat up during this time, which results in thermal-induced image noise. Since astro cameras have a predisposition to heat up during long exposure shots many models have built-in cooling fans and specific design features to keep the performance of the image capture high; it will likely be larger and heavier and a little noisier as the fans whir while operating.
What lenses should I buy for astrophotography?
Photographers must consider lens choice when choosing a camera for astrophotography. While most major manufacturers have excellent ranges of top-quality glass, not all camera models can accept the full range of lenses due to differences in mount types. Ideally, fast lenses with wide apertures and excellent optical sharpness and clarity are what to look for when shooting astrophotography, take a look at our guide to the best lenses in astrophotography. Pair this with a camera body that handles high ISO and image noise well, and you should be ready to go.
Do I need a filter for my astrophotography camera?
The best light pollution filters for astrophotography are especially important if you're shooting in an area prone to skyglow. Want to check if you need a light pollution filter? Check out How dark is your night sky? An observer's guide.
What else will I need to photograph the stars?
A tripod is a must for mirrorless and DSLR cameras and a star tracker will move the camera with the earth's rotation when taking long exposures using a telephoto zoom lens. Plus, there are many additional camera accessories that will aid night sky photography, with a headlamp that doesn't disturb night vision being one of the most important.
Dedicated astro cameras will need to be connected to a telescope and will typically sit where the telescope eyepiece normally fits. They may also require a power bank or other external power source to take images.
Should I remove the infrared filter on my camera?
Yes, you can but astrophotographers must be mindful of the noise-handling abilities of each system, as this is an issue often encountered by night and low-light photographers. Be sure to assess the camera's capacity to block out infrared light before taking a camera apart since this is necessary to capture cosmic objects.
If necessary, a professional can remove the infrared filter after purchase. This is the method we would choose if you are not confident with DIY camera fixes or engineering as it can void warranties.
How do I find the best prices on astrophotography cameras?
The prices in this guide to the best cameras for astrophotography are always up-to-date and reflect the best prices found on the internet. However, we've also sourced all the best camera deals: discounts on cameras in one place.
But, if you simply need one of the best mirrorless cameras or best DSLR cameras, we've got that covered too.
How we test the best cameras for astrophotography
To guarantee you're getting honest, up-to-date recommendations on the best cameras to buy here at Space.com we make sure to put every camera through a rigorous review to fully test each product. Each camera is reviewed based on many aspects, from its construction and design, to how well it functions as an optical instrument and its performance in the field.
Each camera is carefully tested by either our expert staff or knowledgeable freelance contributors who know their subject areas in depth. This ensures fair reviewing is backed by personal, hands-on experience with each camera and is judged based on its price point, class and destined use. For example, comparing a 60MP full-frame mirrorless camera to a sleek little crop-sensor DSLR wouldn't be appropriate, though each camera might be the best-performing product in its own class.
We look at how easy each camera is to operate, whether it contains the latest up-to-date imaging technology, whether the cameras can shoot high-quality stills photos and high-resolution video and also make suggestions if a particular camera would benefit from any additional kit to give you the best viewing experience possible.
With complete editorial independence, Space.com are here to ensure you get the best buying advice on cameras, whether you should purchase an instrument or not, making our buying guides and reviews reliable and transparent.
