The Best Mirrorless Cameras in 2024
Given all the choices when it comes to a new camera, it can be quite an ordeal to research and decide on just one. While it mostly depends on what you need as a photographer. If you’ve been leaning more towards picking up a mirrorless camera, then you’re in the right place and we’re here to help.
Updated 10/2/2024 by Christine Eckard
Mirrorless cameras have been popular in recent years for their compact size, superb performance, and growing lens selection. The style is quickly replacing DSLRs as the technology in mirrorless is rapidly outpacing that of DSLRs, which have all but stagnated. They’re often the best choice for most people, so we generally recommend looking at mirrorless cameras when you’re deciding on your next camera.
When it comes to any digital camera, mirrorless included, there are entry-level and pro options, and you can go for a crop sensor (often called by its more official name of APS-C), Full-Frame (more akin to classic 35mm film size), or even medium format (much larger sensor). All these sensor types have pros and cons, so weigh your options carefully. Whether you’re opting for a mirrorless camera for the first time or looking to upgrade your existing one, below are our suggestions for the best ones you can get your hands on this year.
What We’re Looking For
The main draw of mirrorless cameras lies in having the latest technology and high-resolution sensors in a more compact and lightweight package compared to most DSLRs. Fast burst mode capabilities, reliable connectivity, excellent video recording, image stabilization, and decent low-light shooting capabilities are some of the most in-demand features for photographers of all levels. Of course, being interchangeable lens cameras, they should also have a good selection of native lenses available in popular focal lengths.
While smaller and more lightweight, the latest mirrorless cameras don’t always come cheap, so below are our picks you can reference to help you make the right decision the first time.
At a Glance
The Best Overall Mirrorless Camera: Sony Alpha 1
With specs that make it really impressive on paper, it’s not surprising to find a lot of hype focused on the $6,500 full-frame Sony Alpha 1. In our recent review of the Sony Alpha 1, however, we’ve found that it does live to Sony’s promise of being a camera that can do whatever you want out of it.
With features like a new 50.1-megapixel sensor resolution, 15-plus stops dynamic range, ISO sensitivity of up to 32,000, incredibly fast autofocus, 30 fps continuous shooting mode, and weather sealing, you have a capable mirrorless camera for all your photography needs.
Likewise, video capabilities are superb, with 8K video and a host of high framerate options in both 4K and Full HD. Tie these features up with better battery life and improved body and you have a great choice for an all-around mirrorless camera.
The only major thing that may hold you back is the $6,500 price, especially if you don’t really need this high-end, professional model yet. The Alpha 1 earns that price, however, as it is the only camera on the market that offers these high-end, pro-focused features. If you want the best that money can buy, this is it.
Read more: Sony Alpha 1 Review: Yeah, It Really Is That Good
The Best Mirrorless Camera For Wildlife and Action: Nikon Z8
The Sony Alpha 1 is a good option for every type of photography, including wildlife and action, thanks to its 50.1-megapixel sensor, exceptional dynamic range, outstanding autofocus, and 30 fps continuous shooting, and the Canon EOS R3 is a great choice for RF-mount users looking to photograph wildlife and action.
While the a1 and R3 are great, the Nikon Z9 was PetaPixel’s most recent selection for this category because of its excellent 45.7-megapixel sensor, fast image processing engine, great autofocus, and incredible all-around performance. However, thanks to the new Nikon Z8, which packs almost everything that makes the Z9 so good, including its image processing pipeline and autofocus, the Z9 has been usurped.
Nikon has long been a popular choice for wildlife, nature, and sports photographers, way back to Nikon’s film days and, more recently, its flagship DSLR cameras. As Nikon moved into the mirrorless age, its first full-frame mirrorless Z cameras, the Z6 and Z7, delivered excellent image quality and overall performance, but hardened wildlife photographers were left wanting when it came to speed and autofocus. The Z9 changed that, and the Z8 offers the Z9’s same excellent photographic capabilities in a smaller, lighter, and more affordable package.
The Nikon Z8 is a baby Z9 in form factor and price only. It’s what’s on the inside that counts, and the Z8 is every bit as good as the Z9 regarding photographic performance, making the Z8 an outstanding mirrorless camera for wildlife and action photography.
Read more: Nikon Z8 Hands-On: This Apple Didn’t Fall Far From the Z9 Tree
The Best Mirrorless Camera For Professionals: Sony a7R V
The Sony a7R V is the “Best Mirrorless Camera for Professionals” because it marries performance and power incredibly compellingly. The camera uses the same great 61-megapixel Exmor R CMOS sensor found in its predecessor, 2019’s a7R IV, but combines it with increased processing power, new artificial intelligence, and many fantastic refinements across the board.
Two key features come in the form of better video and more sophisticated autofocus. The a7R V’s upgraded Bionz XR processor allows for 8K24p and 4K60p video, two video recording modes not offered by the a7R IV. Concerning autofocus, the camera uses AI to detect more subjects, including specific modes for birds, insects, cars and trains, and aircraft. The AF system also has more points (693 versus 567) and significantly more reliable eye-detect and face-detect AF.
There are some minor usability quirks with the camera’s menus. In typical Sony fashion, there are many options, which is equal parts practical and frustrating. However, the overall user experience is improved thanks to the a7R V’s high-res 9.44M dot electronic viewfinder, which is best in class, and a much-requested new articulating touchscreen.
Read more: Sony a7R V Review: A Marriage of Performance and Power
The Best Mid-Range Mirrorless Camera: Nikon Z6 III
A highly anticipated and much-appreciated newcomer to Nikon’s full-frame mirrorless series is the $2,500 Nikon Z6 III. Featuring a partially stacked sensor, this camera inherits a suite of advanced capabilities typically found in higher-end models, yet it is offered at a more accessible mid-range price point. Brimming with Nikon’s state-of-the-art technology, the Z6 III is an excellent choice for those who seek premium full-frame resolution combined with speed and precision in eye-detection autofocus for people, animals, and vehicles.
To enhance the performance of the Z6 III, Nikon opted not to use the older 24-megapixel sensor. Instead, they introduced a new, partially stacked chip that offers up to 20 frames per second (FPS) in RAW with autofocus enabled and can deliver up to 120 JPEGs per second. It achieves all this with minimal rolling shutter effect. While it may not quite reach the performance levels of the Nikon Z8 or Z9, it provides significant improvements without the accompanying high cost.
The camera body is robust and weather-sealed to the same extent as the Nikon Z8, yet it is slightly lighter, weighing in at 25.5 ounces (725 grams). It features numerous customizable buttons and a deep, comfortable grip. The camera body design is thoughtfully arranged, and crucially, no essential features have been omitted or compromised despite its lower price compared to the Z8 or Z9.
The Z6 III is equipped with an IBIS unit that delivers up to eight stops of stabilization. This system adjusts the sensor for off-center subjects in your images, ensuring sharp shots regardless of where your subject is located within the frame. Wherever the autofocus point is locked, the camera adjusts accordingly, proving to be an effective solution for capturing crisp, clear images.
Comparatively, the Alpha 7 IV is a phenomenal hybrid camera that excels in nearly every shooting scenario while the 33 megapixel sensor captures the most detail in its class.The a7 IV often rivals high-end mirrorless cameras in terms of performance and value. However, with the faster sensor, improved electronic viewfinder (EVF), advanced in-body image stabilization (IBIS), and high-quality video features, the Z6 III emerges as the more
compelling choice, incorporating technology that is not even available in some higher-end models. This approach contrasts sharply with the usual practice of camera companies, where features are often withheld or disabled to create market segmentation.
Priced at $2,500, the Nikon Z6 III represents a substantial upgrade at a reasonable cost, earning respect for its comprehensive capabilities. It stands as the spiritual successor to the D750—a camera that was versatile enough for most situations and garnered respect from photographers regardless of their brand allegiance. The Z6 III is poised to fulfill this role for Nikon once more, marking a victory for both the company and its users. In every respect, it is clear that the Nikon Z6 III will continue to earn its place in the hearts of photographers, reaffirming Nikon’s commitment to innovation and quality.
The Best Beginner Mirrorless Camera: Canon EOS R10
At just under $1,000 (body only), the Canon EOS R10 is an excellent mirrorless camera for beginners. While it makes a few compromises compared to its pricier sibling, the R7, the R10 delivers a lot of value to photographers looking to begin investing in a mirrorless interchangeable lens camera system.
The R10 delivers plenty of power for many beginners, and its 24.2-megapixel image sensor captures high-quality images. The camera sports an advanced autofocus system that rivals significantly more expensive competitors and features a compact, lightweight design that’s easy to slip into a small bag.
Users must live without a few bells and whistles when using the R10, but where it matters most — imaging performance — the R10 delivers in spades. The lack of in-body image stabilization is slightly disappointing, and the camera’s electronic shutter is mediocre. However, using its mechanical shutter, the R10 still shoots at a swift 15 fps.
The Canon EOS R10 isn’t perfect, but it punches far above its weight and is the best camera on the market today for beginners and other photographers on a budget. The camera accomplishes much more than most cameras in its price range can, and the R10 is the new standard-bearer in its category.
Read more: Canon EOS R10 Review: Powerful Performance at an Affordable Price
The Best Hybrid Mirrorless Camera: Canon EOS R5 Mark II
The $4,300 Canon EOS R5 Mark II emerges as the ultimate choice for professional photographers or anyone seeking exceptional equipment for a diverse array of photography endeavors. Boasting impressive specifications such as a stacked 45-megapixel Dual Pixel CMOS sensor, the ability to capture 8K video along with various filming modes, and a continuous shooting speed of up to 12 frames per second with a mechanical shutter and 40 frames per second with an electronic shutter, this camera stands out as one of the most capable options available. Additionally, it offers weather sealing on par with the EOS 5D Mark IV, a high-resolution viewfinder, a fully articulating rear screen, and up to 8 stops of image stabilization when paired with compatible lenses.
One of the standout features of this model is its 100% coverage Dual Pixel II AF system. While some photographers might argue that Sony’s autofocus is superior, Canon’s system is certainly no underdog. The highly acclaimed autofocus system covers the entire frame and incorporates reliable eye detection, eye-control, and subject tracking, making it easy to capture perfectly focused images of both humans and animals.
As a camera designed to handle a true hybrid workflow, the EOS R5 Mark II is exceptionally hard to surpass; it is an all-encompassing package that caters to a wide range of photographers. Canon has made significant advancements in dynamic range, and as a result, the image quality of the R5 Mark II is top-tier. When compared to other cameras that offer high resolution and video capabilities within this price bracket, the Canon EOS R5 Mark II manages to maintain a slight edge over its competition.
The Best Video-Focused Mirrorless Camera: Panasonic GH7
Many of the cameras on this list have outstanding video capabilities, like many models released in the last couple of years. However, if you plan to get a mirrorless camera primarily for video use, consider the Panasonic GH7 Micro Four Thirds camera.
The GH7 camera body is ideal for video production, with features such as a built-in fan for unlimited recording, dual record buttons (with the shutter button as a third option), a tally lamp to indicate recording status, an included PC sync to BNC cable for timecode synchronization, a front face pin to prevent the camera from spinning on the tripod, a tilting and fully articulated screen that stays clear of the ports, and a CFexpress Type-B card slot that supports highly demanding recording modes.
One of the standout options is 5.8K open-gate recording in a 4:3 aspect ratio, which is exceptionally useful for reframing a single video for both widescreen and vertical formats. The camera supports 4K recording at up to 120 frames per second, with or without sound. This 4K/120p footage is incredibly detailed, as it is oversampled from the full 25-megapixel sensor, though its dynamic range is one stop lower than other recording modes. A new recording mode allows the GH7 to shoot 1080/240P while simultaneously recording audio, making it highly useful for speed ramping or capturing action scenes where the original audio is needed.
Another standout feature of the GH7 is its ability to record internal ProRes Raw directly onto a CFexpress B card. ProRes RAW offers significantly more control over white balance and noise reduction than recording 10-bit V-Log footage. You can capture the full width of the sensor in 5.7K at a 17:9 aspect ratio up to 30P or use a 1:1 pixel readout for C4K up to 60P, though this comes with a significant crop.
Although the GH7 is designed with an emphasis on video capabilities, it retains all the photographic capabilities of the G9 II, including 100MP handheld Hi-Res shots, 75 frames-per-second burst shooting, and the ability to apply Real-Time LUTs for different JPEG looks.
For flexible video capabilities, the GH7 stands out as our top pick. Nonetheless, several full-frame cameras come close, with the Nikon Z8 leading the pack. The Z8 is the ultimate full-frame choice for video, with internal RAW recording, oversampled 4K at 60P, waveforms, excellent autofocus, and minimal rolling shutter. It also includes a full-size HDMI port and an intuitive interface for video production.
The Sony a7 III remains a strong competitor as Sony’s premier full-frame mirrorless camera for video. It offers impressive video features and performance, particularly in low-light scenarios, and is more affordable. While the Nikon Z8 excels at high-resolution 8K recording, the a7 III is limited to 4K due to its lower resolution sensor.
The Best Medium Format Mirrorless Camera: Fujifilm GFX 100S II
Medium format mirrorless cameras have been steadily gaining the preference of professional photographers who require the ultimate image quality with the most accurate color reproduction. While medium format sensors sacrifice autofocus and shooting performance speeds, they are well known for having the best possible image quality in a modern digital camera. If your goal is to make incredible studio portraits or beautiful high-resolution landscape images, medium format might be for you.
Freshly introduced, the $5,000 Fujifilm GFX 100S II is already making rounds as the medium format camera to beat.
The GFX 100S II boasts impressive features like a 102-megapixel BSI-CMOS sensor, improved image stabilization at up to 6EV, 4K 30p video capabilities, up to 7.0 fps continuous shooting, and improved autofocus performance— all in a relatively small and compact body. If you’re a fan of Fujifilm’s Film Simulation, you might also enjoy the additional “Nostalgic Neg” mode, which is inspired by the look of Stephen Shore’s iconic color photography.
Lately, it feels like Fujifilm’s biggest competition in the medium format space is itself, and that’s certainly the case here with the 50S II, and 100 II all coming in as solid options (although the 100S II is our pick as the best of the bunch). While there are options from Hasselblad, feature-for-feature the Fujifilm is superior right now, even if sync speeds favor Hasselblad. For now, most photographers are going to find the Fujifilm GFX 100S II to check the most boxes.
The Best Crop-Sensor Mirrorless Camera: Fujifilm X-H2
Crop sensor cameras are powerful tools for many photographers, including professionals. A bigger sensor doesn’t always mean that a camera is better. It’s long been the case that using an APS-C sensor meant giving up a bit of megapixels and resolution, all else equal, but the Fujifilm X-H2 — and X-T5, which uses the same sensor — change that.
The X-H2 uses a 40.2-megapixel APS-C sensor, the highest-megapixel APS-C sensor on the market, to provide more resolution than many full-frame cameras. The new sensor also enables 8K 30p Apple ProRes internal recording, which no other APS-C camera offers.
The X-H2 doesn’t compromise in terms of speed, either. It can shoot at up to 15 frames per second, which is quite speedy but not as swift as its lower-res sibling, the X-H2S, which has a stacked sensor that can shoot up to 40 fps.
In many ways, Fujifilm’s pair of flagship cameras are very similar. The X-H2 and X-H2S share the same body design, which is robust and SLR-style, and each uses the same 5.76M-dot EVF, multi-angle LCD screen, AI-powered hybrid autofocus system, and newly designed in-body image stabilization system that promises up to seven stops of compensation. Each camera also works with Frame.io Camera to Cloud (C2C) integration, a groundbreaking workflow improvement that enables photographers and videographers to work more efficiently.
Overall, the Fujifilm X-H2 is the “Best Crop-Sensor Mirrorless Camera” because of its class-leading resolution, robust video features, and professional-quality design and features.
