1. The list in brief ↴
2. Best overall
3. Best hybrid
4. Best pro camera
5. Best all-rounder
6. Best Sony camera
7. Best APS-C
8. A great all-rounder
9. Best intermediate model
10. Best beginner
11. Best Micro Four Thirds
12. Best intermediate model
13. Best mirrorless cameras FAQs
14. How we test
The best mirrorless cameras are powerful tools that can keep up with you in whatever shooting scenario you're in. Mirrorless cameras are nothing new, but they continue to be the weapon of choice among amateurs and professionals. They have been successful in superseding the trusty DSLR camera, with many manufacturers now discontinuing their DSLR lines.
Mirrorless cameras, as the name suggests, don't have a mirror or a viewfinder prism-like SLRs and DSLRs do. Instead, they use a small electronic screen as the viewfinder instead of an optical one. With a reduction of hardware, mirrorless cameras are inherently lighter and more compact, making them a convenient, more portable, lighter-weight option than most DSLRs.
There are three main image sensor sizes in mirrorless cameras: Micro Four Thirds (MFT), APS-C, and full-frame sensors. MFT are generally the smallest, then APS-C crop sensors with full-frame sensor camera bodies being the largest but most capable.
For astrophotography, the best mirrorless cameras aren't your only, or necessarily the best option. For astrophotographers who want camera equipment that will maximize detail in the stars and beyond, check out the best cameras for astrophotography and consider the best lenses for astrophotography. For our top picks of the best cameras overall, including DSLRs, take a look at our guide to the best camera for photos and videos.
The quick list
Below we've summarized our top picks of the best mirrorless cameras, including their main specs, features and who they might be best suited for. If you are after more in-depth information, click on the 'read more below' buttons to read full reviews.
The best mirrorless camera overall
If you can stomach the price tag, this camera is ideal for professional photography, from landscapes, portraits or wedding photography.
The best hybrid camera
This camera is a great choice for professionals, and one of Canon's best technical achievements ever.
The best professional camera
The Nikon Z9 is a brilliant camera for stills and videos of astro, landscapes, weddings and more.
The best all-rounder
The Nikon Z7 II combines power, speed and precision with a simple interface to master all trades.
The best Sony camera
The Sony A1 is a powerhouse for video and photography, shooting 50.1MP stills and 8K 30P video.
The best APS-C camera
The Canon EOS R6 boasts great high ISO image noise handling to produce great stills and videos.
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A great all-rounder
The X-T5 is a stylish, compact camera with a 40-megapixel sensor and high-speed processor.
The best intermediate model
The Canon EOS R7 is a powerful crop sensor camera that can handle almost anything you throw at it.
The best beginner mirrorless camera
For taking everyday snaps, travel photography or even landscape photos, the X-T30 II will see you right for years to come.
The best Micro Four Thirds camera
This is a small, lightweight camera that offers a great balance between usability, quality and a simple interface.
The best for intermediate users
The Nikon Z6 II is a good all-rounder, with small but welcome improvements on the Nikon Z6.
The best mirrorless cameras we recommend in 2023
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The best mirrorless camera overall
✅ You want to shoot the sharpest images: the stills resolution is incredible.
✅ You want great features: the autofocus system is brilliant.
❌ You want to shoot video: there is no 8K video recording.
❌ You want the biggest ISO range: for the price, 100-32,000 is limited.
🔎 The Sony A7R IV is the highest resolution full-frame camera on the market, and has a world-leading autofocus system.
Design. The Sony A7R IV seems to perfectly balance the portability of a mirrorless camera while still being a big enough size to make it easy to grip. The grip is one of the aspects of the camera which has been improved after criticism of the A7R III, with many users commenting that there wasn't enough room between the lens and the grip. Sony has also redesigned the buttons on the camera body to be bigger and better and the previous model.
Performance. If you want to capture unmatched detail, take a closer look at this record-breaking Sony A7R IV camera. The image sensor in the Sony A7R IV is capable of capturing huge 61MP stills images, which, at the time of writing is the highest resolution stills in a full-frame camera. Strangely, this doesn't apply to video because it can only record 4K UHD footage at a maximum resolution of 30 frames per second, although the majority of shooters still find that to be enough.
We tested the capabilities of this camera in our hands-on Sony A7R IV review, and we were very impressed with the autofocus which performed faultlessly, including eye detection. Even when we performed the black cat test. Where many cameras wouldn't even detect that there was a face in the image — it tracked the cat's eyes flawlessly — that is seriously impressive.
The A7R IV also performs very well in low light, making it a great option for astrophotography, but be mindful that the ISO range tops out at about 32,000. That said, the A7R IV will provide a larger and more detailed view of the galaxies than anything else.
Read more: Sony A7R IV review
The best hybrid camera
✅ You want good autofocus: this camera has excellent AF even in low light.
✅ You want great image stabilization: the R5 has eight stops of it.
❌ You're on a budget: this camera is on the expensive side.
❌ You shoot video a lot: there are reported overheating problems shooting 8K.
🔎 The Canon EOS R5 is a great choice for semi-pro photographers looking to upgrade to a camera for life.
Design. The EOS R5's RF mount also benefits from improved optical designs that result in better results and smaller form factor lenses, making it more portable, thanks to its wider diameter and closer flange range.
Thanks to in-body image stabilization (IBIS) technology, the R5's 5-axis stabilization can stabilize images up to an incredible eight stops, even on lenses without image stabilization. While this IBIS technology performs well while shooting video, we thought it fell short of expectations when recording 8K RAW footage.
Performance. For experienced and professional users who want exceptional picture and video image quality, the Canon EOS R5 is a wonderful choice — it captures 45MP stills and 8K DCI RAW 30p video footage.
The -6EV autofocusing detection range gives it exceptional low-light performance; this camera can practically see in the dark. Thanks to the custom-designed DIGIC X image processor, there is little image noise throughout the ISO sensitivity range.
The R5 also has a better dynamic range thanks to the improved Auto Lighting Optimizer (ALO) and Highlight Tone Priority + technology. This makes it easier for people with less image processing experience to capture images of dark subjects with better contrast, reducing the need for post-shoot contrast tweaking.
During our review of the Canon EOS R5, we found the tracking spot on and found the R5 had one of the fastest autofocus systems we've used.
Read more: Canon EOS R5 review
The best professional camera
✅ You're on the go a lot: this camera has impressive battery life.
✅ You want a sturdy camera: the build quality on the Z9 is excellent.
✅ You shoot sports photography: this camera has unrivaled burst shooting speed.
❌ You need a lightweight camera: this one is on the heavy side.
❌ You want an articulated screen: this camera doesn't have one.
🔎 The Nikon Z9 is a brilliant astro camera and a monster for stills and video, but it has a high price.
Design. If you can afford the premium $5500 price tag, it's easily one of the best Nikon cameras full stop. It is fully weather-sealed and incredibly rugged. Nikon claims it will continue to operate at -10 degrees Celsius, although we didn't test this during our review.
Remarkably, we only used 20% of the fully charged battery after three or four hours of photography in the cold, shooting multiple long exposures, and making frequent setting changes — impressive.
Performance. To say we were impressed with this camera during our hands-on Nikon Z9 review is a vast understatement. The only reason it didn't quite earn five stars is that astrophotographers may find it overkill and that there is no need to spend this much money if astrophotography is all you plan to do.
This camera is head and shoulders above the competition if you want to take images of landscapes, people, animals, and occasionally some astro (of course).
The autofocus is lightning fast, even in low light, giving you the best opportunity to capture fleeting moments at special occasions such as weddings or sporting events. Why isn't it at the top of our list? Well, it's a professional-use camera so while it's built to last, it's out of many photographers' price range.
Read more: Nikon Z9 review
The best all-rounder
✅ You want a sturdy camera: this one is well-built and fully weather-sealed.
✅ You want a lot of memory: the Z7 II has a multi-slot memory card port.
✅ You shoot different styles: this camera performs well all-round.
❌ You only shoot one type of photography: this camera isn't the best at anything.
❌ You want an articulating screen: the LCD screen is tilt-only.
🔎 The Nikon Z7 II is a master of all trades that combines power, speed and precision with a simple interface.
Design. The Nikon Z7 II turned things up a notch from the Z7 with more advanced compatibility and better image processing. It was first introduced in 2020 and offers incredibly sharp 45MP stills and excellent, smooth 4K UHD 60p video.
In our Nikon Z7 II review, we noted that it feels like a mini Nikon DSLR, with similar button placement, controls and command dials, so it should feel familiar if you're making the switch between the two.
Performance. Thanks to more effective energy use, longer periods of shooting are possible, which is fantastic for astrophotography. Its durable magnesium alloy body and full weather sealing allow it to be exposed to just about any weather condition without concern. Though if you exclusively shoot astro, bad weather is rarely an issue anyway. Paired with the razor-sharp Z series lenses, it's priced for serious and professional shooters.
We were particularly impressed with its low light capabilities and how good it was when shooting astro. Although the screen is tilt-only, we didn't mind, as it means all of the buttons are still at a fingertip's reach in the dark, so there is no need for headlamps or flashlights. We found that it handled image noise exceptionally well, and we found that noise was almost unnoticeable until we raised the ISO to 2500.
Read more: Nikon Z7 II review
The best Sony camera
✅ You want detailed shots: whether it's stills or video, the optics on this camera are brilliant.
✅ You want great features: the autofocus and tracking are incredibly accurate.
✅ You shoot astro: the specs are ideal for astro work.
❌ You're on a budget: this camera is eye-wateringly expensive.
❌ You're a beginner: this camera is geared towards advanced and professional users.
🔎 The Sony A1 is an absolute powerhouse for video and photography, but it comes with a very high price tag.
Design. If you were searching for the one camera to rule them all, the Sony A1 may just be it. However, as we found in our hands-on Sony A1 review, it has a hefty price tag and is most likely only accessible to professional photographers or those with a very big budget.
With a massive 50.1MP stills resolution, 8K 30p video, a class-leading electronic viewfinder and in-body image stabilization of 5.5 stops, you'll be able to capture every star in the sky. Not to mention this menu system is one of the best and easiest to navigate that we've seen from Sony, who are notorious for having confusing menus.
It has incredible specs that are ideal for astro work. The camera's extended ISO range of up to 102,400 makes for some amazing astrophotography, and its 15 stops of dynamic range ensure that even the tiniest celestial specks can be captured.
Performance. The A1 is Sony's best camera in the color department, and the dynamic range is better than the A9 and the A2. The buffer-clearing speed is impressive, although this largely depends on what type of memory card you're using. The buffer also clears while you shoot, so you don't have to wait to start shooting again, which makes life much easier.
Another neat feature is lossless compressed files. The file size of a lossless compressed image is roughly half that of an uncompressed raw file because the camera finds clever ways to eliminate some unnecessary information. This is not a particularly exciting feature, but your storage system and computer processor will appreciate it.
Read more: Sony A1 review
The best APS-C mirrorless camera
✅ You shoot in low light: this has a better low light autofocus than the R5.
✅ You want a large ISO range: this ranges from 100-51,200 (50-204,800 if extended).
✅ You shoot video a lot: Canon-Log creates professional-looking footage.
❌ You're on a budget: there are cheaper competitors out there.
❌ You want to shoot the highest-quality stills: the sensor is limited to 20MP.
🔎 The Canon EOS R6 is a great choice for those who want to shoot professional-looking videos and aren't too concerned about the limited 20.1MP stills.
Design. The camera, at first glance, seems a little sparse when studying the buttons across the device, but actually it's quite deceptive. A well spaced button layout sees controls filter from the back of the body through to the top panel without overcrowding one particular section, making it look cleverly simple without removing the salient, commonest controls.
Relatively compact, the EOS R6 weighs just 1.5lbs and measures 5.45 x 3.84 x 3.48-inches making it handily portable, suitable for almost any size camera bag or pouch.
The vari-angle touchscreen is particularly useful for recomposing scenes without having to contort into awkward angles, enabling the photographer to compose both high-up and low-down shots with ease whilst still being able to see the scene.
Performance. Think of the Canon EOS R6 as the R5's little sibling — naturally, there is going to be a drop in both image quality and price. However, despite a lower image resolution (20.1MP compared to the R5's 45MP) and less detailed electronic viewfinder, during our Canon EOS R6 review, we found it actually performs better when being used for astrophotography.
It can autofocus down to an outstanding -6.5EV which is 0.5EV lower than the R5. With a maximum ISO sensitivity that is double that of the R5, it is better suited for recording the aurora and other night sky objects. In addition to being cheaper, lighter, and smaller than the R5, it also has fewer photosites (pixels), which makes it less susceptible to producing unwanted image noise.
Images look great when viewed on the Canon EOS R6. The colors look great on the back touchscreen and it's easy to compose scenes thanks to the exposure preview on the rear screen/EVF.
Read more: Canon EOS R6 review
A great all-rounder
✅ You want to shoot with a range of lenses: plenty are compatible with this camera.
✅ You want a good sensor: this one has a high resolution of 40.2MP.
✅ You shoot video: it can record 4K 60p in webcam.
❌ You want an articulating screen: this camera has a tilt-screen only.
❌ You shoot astro: while IS is decent, image noise at highest ISOs isn't the best.
❌ You're on a budget: this camera isn't the cheapest on this list.
🔎 The Fujifilm X-T5 is a great 'traditional' camera, an all-rounder with a retro look - but it's not the best for astro.
Design. The most recent model (for now, we're expecting another later in the year) in Fujifilm's X family of APS-C cameras is the highly stylish Fujifilm X-T5. It has a 40.2MP sensor and a new X-Processor 5 that provides twice as fast processing as the Fujifilm X-T4 (which was previously featured in this guide).
It's not the cheapest choice on this list, but overall it's a really impressive mirrorless camera that you'll likely have in your kit bag for a very long time because it can adapt to multiple photography styles. It's especially helpful for video as it's able to record 10-bit 4:2:2 video at 6.2K 30p or 4K 60p in webcam mode.
Performance. In our Fujifilm X-T5 review, we liked that the new processor afforded a longer battery life (around 700 shots) and boosted the resolution of the images. Additionally, we noticed that while the image stabilization performed admirably in low light, the image noise at higher ISOs wasn't the best we've seen. It also has subject detection modes which include tracking for animals, birds and vehicles.
The X-T5 might not be an astrophotography specialist but it's equipped with a raft of tools to help you capture night-time subjects. The interval timer, for example, can be set to record an infinite number of images at an interval of your choice from a single second to a full 24 hours. This opens up the possibility of capturing time lapses, star trails and other celestial events without the need for a separate intervalometer.
Read more: Fujifilm X-T5 review
The best intermediate model
✅ You want a lightweight camera: at just 1.17 lbs, this is one of the lighter models on this list.
✅ You want great features: autofocus and tracking are excellent.
✅ You shoot at night: this camera is great in low-light scenes.
❌ You want a full-frame camera: this one isn't.
❌ You shoot sports photography: buffer speed could be better.
🔎 The Canon EOS R7 is the most advanced crop-sensor camera from Canon that is inexpensive and has pro-grade autofocus.
Design. Because it is lightweight and small, the Canon EOS R7 is a great model for travelers and vloggers. Vloggers will also benefit from its exceptional eye tracking and autofocus, as well as the fact that there is no record limit. In addition, the footage is of excellent quality.
The R7 has a D-pad as opposed to a control dial wheel, which does mean more programmable buttons, and they’ve also added an AF/MF switch on the front of the camera. One simple, but great feature that we love is the fact that it has dual card slots, which is unusual for an APS-C camera
Performance. In a nutshell, the performance of this camera is incredible. It produces razor-sharp images that give beautiful color and it’s a dream to shoot with.
Despite its value as a wildlife photographer's camera, the EOS R7 is much more versatile than that. When we gave it a hands-on review, we were pleasantly surprised by this camera's low-light performance; even at ISO 6000, there was barely any discernible noise, and the images were vivid and colorful.
It was only the buffer-clearing speed that slightly disappointed us, but as we noted in our full Canon EOS R7 review, 30FPS is seldom needed. If you do need this kind of speed, for photographing action such as motorsports, you'll want to check out the Canon EOS R3. This camera provides you with almost everything you'd expect from a full-frame camera but at a more reasonable price.
Read more: Canon EOS R7 review
The best beginner mirrorless camera
✅ You want a lightweight camera: at less than 1 lb, this is one of the lighter ones on this list.
✅ You want to share your images: connectivity on this camera makes that simple.
✅ You use autofocus: it's very quick on this camera.
❌ You're on the go a lot: the battery life on this isn't great.
❌ You want an articulated screen: the screen is tilt-only.
❌ You want intuitive controls: the menu can be opaque at times.
🔎 The Fujifilm X-T30 II is a stylish and simple-to-use mirrorless camera that can help to produce stunning, color-rich images.
Design. In our Fujifilm X-T30 II review, we found that this stylish little camera turned out to be a superb option for capturing quick action, taking pictures while traveling, and taking photos of landscapes with incredible color richness and depth, thanks to its 20FPS electronic shutter.
A stand-out part of the design of the X-T30 II is the dial-based operation. The tactile aluminum alloy dials mean you can pick the camera up for the first time and get to work without having to navigate the menu system. Its rear screen tilts, which is still helpful in some situations, but we miss the option to fold the screen inwards and out of the way.
Performance. By using the AUTO mode, you can get excellent results straight out of the box because of intelligent shooting, and it is reasonably priced when compared to other models of comparable quality.
The autofocus on the X-T30 II is very snappy, it uses the same enhanced autofocus algorithms as the considerably more expensive (and now discontinued) X-T4. The sensor is faster and more sensitive to light than its predecessor the X-T30, although we did see noise increase quite noticeably when shooting handheld indoors.
The file transfer between the XT-30 II and a smartphone or tablet couldn't be more straightforward. It takes two clicks on the Fujifilm Camera Remote App — ideal if you want to share your photos quickly.
You can use your phone to adjust the exposure settings and shutter of the camera, which might be useful if you want to get a candid shot of birds or other animals without disturbing them or for making sure everyone is in shot in a family photo without having to run back and forth. Even though the battery life is only CIPA rated for 380 shots, it is easy enough to keep a few spares in your kit bag for a full day of shooting as the batteries are small and light.
Read more: Fujifilm X-T30 II review
The best Micro Four Thirds camera
✅ You want a lightweight camera: this is one of the most portable ones on this list.
✅ You use autofocus a lot: the AF system on this camera is fast and works well.
✅ You want a camera for everyday use: the updated 20MP sensor brings quality to your photography.
❌ You shoot video a lot: this camera has no mic port.
❌ You want a premium-feel camera: while the plastic reduces the weight, it makes it feel cheap.
❌ You're an advanced photographer: the 20MP sensor isn't enough to satisfied experienced photographers.
🔎 If you're new to more complex cameras or need more flexibility than your smartphone, we'd recommend the Olympus OM-D E-M10 MK IV.
Design. Olympus has packed a lot into this stylish little pocketable camera. We have replaced the Mark III of this model in this guide with the Mark IV due to several worthwhile enhancements, including a better sensor, quicker focusing, and generally a more refined and capable package.
In our Olympus OM-DE E-M10 Mark IV review, we loved the well-designed and ergonomic right-hand grip since it allowed us to use the tactice camera controls with only one hand. The 3-inch, flip-down sensitive touch screen makes it easy to compose images with unique angles — helpful for vlogs and selfies.
One thing we would have liked to have seen is weatherproofing; as it stands, you can't use it in poor weather conditions. That said, if you're using it for astrophotography, you'd unlikely be out shooting in poor weather, but you must still be mindful of dust ingress.
Performance. A Micro Four Thirds image sensor means there's less surface area to capture light. Though 20MP stills compete with full-frame mirrorless cameras in terms of image resolution and it can even shoot 4K UHD 30p video.
Despite having a smaller ISO range (200-6400) than the other cameras on this list, 6400 (or 25,600 extended) is more than adequate for astrophotographers who want to keep their ISO as low as possible to reduce unwanted image noise.
Olympus made much of its improved autofocus for the MK IV version of the camera, and we can safely say it delivers. The camera's autofocus ability is up there with the best in its class and didn't ever fail to lock on to motion at a reasonable distance. With 15fps in burst mode, for a small camera, it also delivered when it came to capturing the right moments - particularly with regards to street photography and wildlife.
Read more: Olympus OM-D E-M10 review
The best for intermediate users
✅ You shoot many different styles: this camera is a good all-rounder.
✅ You want a good ISO range: this one extends from 100-51,200, up to 50-204,800 when extended.
✅ You shoot video: this camera can shoot 60 fps at 4K UHD.
❌ You want a lightweight camera: at 1.5 lbs, you can find lighter than this model.
❌ You want the highest-quality images: the 24.5MP sensor can be a bit limited.
🔎 The Nikon Z6 II is a great all-rounder camera for semi-pros looking to upgrade to mirrorless.
Design. Although almost aesthetically identical to the Nikon Z6 which used to be in this guide, the Nikon Z6 II is a small but welcome enhancement. As we discussed in our Nikon Z6 II review, we wouldn't advise upgrading if you already own a Z6 because the differences aren't dazzling enough to justify the cost of switching.
The Z6 II has a second memory card slot that is CF Express compatible, which can increase file writing capacity and speed and also add peace of mind as you can use it as backup storage. It also features a dual image processor and the burst rate has been increased from (an already impressive) 12FPS to 14FPS.
Performance. The focusing on this model is much quicker and you have a wider range of shutter speeds to play with. This is especially useful for astrophotographers and creative photographers. The addition of 60FPS at 4K video capture will appeal to videographers if you don't mind a little more weight.
The introduction of a dual image processor, which drives most of the improvements to this camera, offers the opportunity to expand the camera's burst rate from 12FPS to 14FPS. This is not as much as the camera's direct competitor, the Canon R6, but is undoubtedly a step in the right direction.
The Nikon Z6 II is cheaper than the Canon EOS R6 and would be a good choice for intermediate and professional shooters looking to move over to mirrorless.
Read more: Nikon Z6 II review
Best mirrorless cameras Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best mirrorless camera?
The best mirrorless camera is the Sony A7R IV which we've ranked as number one in this guide. It gives incredible detail and features a fantastic autofocusing system but it might not be for everyone. The Canon EOS R5 comes in a close second place and may be preferable if your aim is to shoot highly detailed video as it can capture 8K RAW video, too.
What's the best mirrorless camera for beginners?
The Fujifilm X-T30 II is the best beginner mirrorless camera in this guide. A detailed 26MP image sensor also captures 4K video footage and it all comes bundled in an affordable, compact design.
Photographers who like to shoot wildlife, landscapes, astrophotography, sports, portraits, and macro subjects might want to consider a mirrorless camera with a broader selection of lenses available to complement it.
What's the best mirrorless camera under $1000?
The Fujifilm X-T30 II or the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV are the best mirrorless cameras for under $1000 when purchasing new. They're small, portable and reliable but deliver high-quality images for a reasonable price.
Mirrorless camera vs DSLR which is better?
Mirrorless cameras are the way the industry is moving. They have a wealth of features that DSLR cameras don't have, such as in-body image stabilization, electronic viewfinders which make it easier to see and compose in the dark and they're inherently smaller and lighter than their DSLR counterparts.
The debate around DSLR vs mirrorless cameras for astrophotography has been vehemently argued by passionate photographers for many years now and while there's much subjectivity based on ergonomics and varying image qualities of models, on the whole, the mirrorless camera will be the one to future-proof your purchases.
What's the best mirrorless camera for video?
Are mirrorless cameras good at both stills photography and video capture?
The best mirrorless cameras for video we think are the: Sony A1, Canon EOS R5 and Nikon Z9 offering up to 8K RAW video shooting. However, they're premium models and for those that don't need 8K video resolution, then the Sony Sony A7R IV is the best overall.
All mirrorless cameras in this guide are capable of shooting at least 4K UHD 30p video. Cameras that are just as capable of professional stills photography and video footage are sometimes called hybrid cameras.
What lenses will I need for my mirrorless camera?
We'd recommend getting the best lenses for your mirrorless camera that you can afford. For many types of camera systems this means you can upgrade camera bodies over the years as technology improves but you'll be able to keep the excellent 'glass' (read: Lenses) you've invested in.
The best lenses for astrophotography are typically wide-angle and have a fast maximum aperture such as f/2.8 or f/1.4 to let in as much dim starlight as possible to the image sensor.
However, if using a star tracker it's possible to make use of a telephoto zoom lens for deep-field astrophotography, zooming into distant galaxies and star systems because the star tracker will keep the object in view during long exposures, without blurring the image.
What other accessories will I need to go with my mirrorless camera?
A camera backpack will allow you to transport your camera gear safely and comfortably. A good range of wide-angles, zoom lenses, primes, telephotos, macro, and other specialist lenses maximize the potential and keep those who like to experiment in multiple disciplines interested.
We'd also recommend one of the best tripods or travel tripods to keep the camera steady, make composition easier and this is essential for astrophotography.
Which mirrorless camera do I need?
The most decisive factor in buying the best mirrorless cameras for most people is undoubtedly price. Looking at an older model, you will typically get a lower price but miss out on newer technology, like improved image stabilization and more detailed viewfinders. However, newer models aimed at professionals will have features that outshine ones for beginner and intermediate photographers — but will also cost much more. It is important to weigh up your budget and what features you will need for your style of photography and the subjects you will be shooting in the long run. Keep an eye on our camera deals page too.
A hugely important consideration when buying a mirrorless system is how many compatible lenses there are so you're not restricted when you further your photography.
How we tested the best mirrorless cameras
To guarantee you're getting honest, up-to-date recommendations on the best cameras to buy here at Space.com, we make sure to review every camera thoroughly to test each product fully. 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 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 product in its 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 suggest 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.
