The latest iPhone, Galaxy, and Pixel phones capture images that turn heads and rack up social media likes, but there's a limit to what they can do. If you're interested in exploring advanced photo techniques, consider a camera with interchangeable lens support, such as the Nikon Z50II, our top pick for beginners. Whether it's for capturing distant wildlife, trying your hand at long-exposure landscapes and night sky astrophotography, or delving into the tiny world of macro photography, a dedicated camera offers significant benefits over your phone, and you don't need to spend a ton of money to get one. We've tested hundreds of cameras for photographers of all skill levels, and these are the best for beginners. Read on for our top picks, followed by important points to consider throughout your search.
Overview
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![Fujifilm X-S20]()
Best Splurge-Worthy Mirrorless With StabilizationFujifilm X-S20
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![Nikon Z50II]()
Best Entry-Level Mirrorless CameraNikon Z50II
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![Nikon Z5II]()
Best for Beginners With Enthusiast AspirationsNikon Z5II
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![Canon EOS R8]()
Best Entry Level Full-Frame for Action PhotographyCanon EOS R8
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![Canon EOS R50 V]()
Best Starter Camera for VloggingCanon EOS R50 V
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![Canon EOS RP]()
Best $1,000 Full-Frame CameraCanon EOS RP
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![Canon EOS R10]()
Best Autofocus SystemCanon EOS R10
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![Fujifilm X-T30 III]()
Best Retro-Style Mirrorless Camera for BeginnersFujifilm X-T30 III
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![Nikon Z 5]()
Best Affordable Full-Frame With Weather ProtectionNikon Z 5
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![Sony a6100]()
Best Selection of LensesSony a6100
You Can Trust Our Reviews
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
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![Fujifilm X-S20]()
Best Splurge-Worthy Mirrorless With StabilizationFujifilm X-S20
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Fujifilm X-S20 is a good pick for creators who want to take advantage of Fuji's Film Simulation filters or an excellent 5-axis stabilized sensor. It works with the full library of Fuji X lenses and a growing number of third-party options. You also get a solid autofocus system, support for 4K30 video, an in-body flash, and excellent battery life.
Who It's For
Action photographers: The X-S20 captures photos at a rapid 20fps and features subject recognition and tracking for people, vehicles, and wildlife. When used with an affordable telezoom like the Fujinon XF 70-300mm, it's a good starter camera for creators interested in capturing on-field sports action or animals in the wild.
Landscape artists: You can take advantage of the X-S20's stabilized sensor to take long exposure photos without a tripod, a positive for landscape photographers who want to smooth the look of running water.
Artistic creators: The built-in Film Simulation profile feature allows you to experiment with various creative looks for a scene. If you want to try your hand at black-and-white photography or take digital photos that remind you of vintage film cameras, the X-S20 has you covered.
Vloggers: Fuji has incorporated a special Vlog capture mode into the X-S20, making it easier to capture high-quality video. The stabilized image sensor further smooths out jumps and jitters when handholding the camera. Its built-in microphone is just okay, so you'll want to add an external mic for vlogs, however.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Type Fujifilm NP-W235 Connectivity Bluetooth Connectivity Headphone (3.5mm) Connectivity micro HDMI Connectivity Microphone (3.5mm) Connectivity Remote (2.5mm) Connectivity USB-C Connectivity Wi-Fi Dimensions 3.4 by 5.0 by 2.6 inches Display Resolution 1.8 Display Size 3.0 inches EVF Resolution 2.36 Flat Profile HDMI Output 4:2:2 12-bit Lens Mount Fujifilm X Maximum ISO 51200 Memory Card Format SDXC (UHS-II) Memory Card Slots 1 Minimum ISO 80 Sensor Resolution 26 Sensor Size APS-C Sensor Type X-Trans BSI CMOS Stabilization 5-Axis IBIS Touch Screen Type Mirrorless Video Resolution 4K Video Resolution 6K (3:2) Viewfinder Magnification 0.62x Viewfinder Type EVF Weight 1.1 Learn More Fujifilm X-S20 Review -
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![Nikon Z50II]()
Best Entry-Level Mirrorless CameraNikon Z50II
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Nikon Z50II is our favorite APS-C mirrorless camera for photographers seeking an entry-level model. It captures high-quality pictures with a variety of easily accessible color profiles, including filtered looks, and records video at up to 4K60 resolution with 10-bit color. A front-facing LCD and support for external microphones and headphones are advantages for videos and vlogs. The Z50II's reliable autofocus system recognizes people, pets, wildlife, and vehicles, and tracks them at up to 30fps.
Who It's For
Family photographers: The Z50II is an ideal camera for capturing family events, vacations, and snapping photos of your kids and pets. It focuses quickly and accurately, delivers excellent image quality, and includes a built-in flash to brighten up interior scenes.
Action and wildlife photographers: The camera supports a brisk 30fps drive speed with tracking for people, wildlife, and vehicles, making it a good choice for capturing images of field sports and animals in their natural habitats. Nikon offers a kit that includes the affordable 50-250mm lens, which is a good telephoto zoom for beginners.
Outdoor photographers: The Z50II features dust and splash protection, a rare inclusion among affordable mirrorless cameras, making it a suitable choice for those who enjoy taking photos outdoors in nature.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Type Nikon EN-EL25a Connectivity Bluetooth Connectivity Headphone (3.5mm) Connectivity micro HDMI Connectivity Microphone (3.5mm) Connectivity USB-C Connectivity Wi-Fi Dimensions 3.8 by 5.0 by 2.6 inches Display Resolution 1.04 Display Size 3.2 inches EVF Resolution 2.4 Flat Profile HDMI Output 4:2:2 10-bit Lens Mount Nikon Z Maximum ISO 204800 Memory Card Format SDXC (UHS-II) Memory Card Slots 1 Minimum ISO 100 Sensor Resolution 20.9 Sensor Size APS-C Sensor Type CMOS Stabilization None Touch Screen Type Mirrorless Video Resolution 4K Viewfinder Magnification 0.68x Viewfinder Type EVF Weight 17.5 Learn More Nikon Z50II Review -
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Credit: Jim Fisher
![Nikon Z5II]()
Best for Beginners With Enthusiast AspirationsNikon Z5II
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
If you want to get started with a camera that gives you room to grow as a creator, it's worth splurging on the Nikon Z5II. Its stabilized 24MP sensor delivers great pictures in all kinds of light, autofocus is fast enough to focus and track subjects at 14fps, and it's a solid choice for 4K video too. When you consider its excellent EVF and weather protection, you have a camera that's accessible to beginners, providing room to grow as a creator as you improve your photography skills.
Who It's For
Aspiring enthusiasts: The Z5II features a fully automatic mode, allowing anyone to pick it up and start capturing images. Additionally, it provides manual exposure controls that can be used as you learn more about photography. Importantly, its speed, weather protection, and other features will keep you happy once you graduate from Photography 101.
Action photographers: Nikon's autofocus system delivers excellent accuracy and speed, enabling it to track a wide range of subjects. That, coupled with the 14fps burst rate, makes the Z5II a good option for photographers who want to take sports photos or snap shots of animals in the wild.
Outdoor photographers: The Z5II is a weather-sealed camera with a magnesium alloy body, making it a good choice for capturing photos outdoors in nature.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Type Nikon EN-EL15c Connectivity Bluetooth Connectivity Headphone (3.5mm) Connectivity micro HDMI Connectivity Microphone (3.5mm) Connectivity USB-C Connectivity Wi-Fi Dimensions 4.0 by 5.3 by 2.8 inches Display Resolution 2.1 Display Size 3.2 inches EVF Resolution 3.7 Flat Profile HDMI Output 4:2:2 12-bit Lens Mount Nikon Z Maximum ISO 204800 Memory Card Format SDXC (UHS-II) Memory Card Slots 2 Minimum ISO 50 Sensor Resolution 24.5 Sensor Size Full-Frame Sensor Type BSI CMOS Stabilization 5-Axis IBIS Touch Screen Type Mirrorless Video Resolution 4K Viewfinder Magnification 0.8x Viewfinder Type EVF Weight 1.5 Learn More Nikon Z5II Review -
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![Canon EOS R8]()
Best Entry Level Full-Frame for Action PhotographyCanon EOS R8
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Canon EOS R8 is the best affordable full-frame camera for action photography. Its 24MP BSI CMOS sensor includes onboard focus with subject recognition and is capable of tracking moving targets at a speedy 40fps burst rate. For video, it supports 10-bit 4K60. Add a small and light build, Canon's wide range of RF mirrorless lenses, and both automatic and manual exposure options, and you've got a starter camera that leaves you some room to grow as a creator.
Who It's For
Family photographers: The R8's full-frame sensor can capture good pictures in all kinds of lighting conditions, and its autofocus is reliable for capturing photos of kids and pets.
Sports and wildlife photographers: The EOS R8 is the fastest entry-level camera with a full-frame sensor, so it's an especially good choice for creators interested in capturing the high-speed action of field sports and animals in the wild.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Type Canon LP-E17 Connectivity Bluetooth Connectivity Headphone (3.5mm) Connectivity micro HDMI Connectivity Microphone (3.5mm) Connectivity Remote (2.5mm) Connectivity USB-C Connectivity Wi-Fi Dimensions 3.4 by 5.2 by 2.8 inches Display Resolution 1.62 Display Size 3.0 inches EVF Resolution 2.4 Flat Profile HDMI Output 4:2:2 10-bit Lens Mount Canon RF Maximum ISO 204800 Memory Card Format SDXC (UHS-II) Memory Card Slots 1 Minimum ISO 100 Sensor Resolution 24 Sensor Size Full-Frame Sensor Type CMOS Stabilization None Touch Screen Type Mirrorless Video Resolution 4K Viewfinder Magnification 0.7x Viewfinder Type EVF Weight 1 Learn More Canon EOS R8 Review -
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Credit: Jim Fisher
![Canon EOS R50 V]()
Best Starter Camera for VloggingCanon EOS R50 V
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
Although the Canon EOS R50 V mirrorless camera is good for stills, it should appeal most to vloggers. Its front-facing screen is ideal for self-recorded videos, and it features a large variety of color profiles, allowing you to give your channel a stylized look. It records at 4K30 with digital stabilization, and the built-in stereo microphone captures great audio as well.
Who It's For
Content creators: The EOS R50 V is an ideal choice for those looking to start a vlog. It features more than a dozen tasteful color profiles, records digitally stabilized 4K30 footage, and includes a three-capsule microphone built in.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Type Canon LP-E17 Connectivity Bluetooth Connectivity Headphone (3.5mm) Connectivity micro HDMI Connectivity Microphone (3.5mm) Connectivity Remote (2.5mm) Connectivity Wi-Fi Dimensions 3.4 by 4.6 by 2.7 inches Display Resolution 1.04 Display Size 3 inches Flat Profile HDMI Output 4:2:2 10-bit Lens Mount Canon RF Maximum ISO 51200 Memory Card Format SDXC (UHS-II) Memory Card Slots 1 Minimum ISO 100 Sensor Resolution 24 Sensor Size APS-C Sensor Type CMOS Stabilization Digital Touch Screen Type Mirrorless Video Resolution 4K Viewfinder Type None Weight 13.1 Learn More Canon EOS R50 V Review -
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![Canon EOS RP]()
Best $1,000 Full-Frame CameraCanon EOS RP
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Canon EOS RP is among the most affordable full-frame models, and we appreciate the extensive library of lower-cost RF lenses available for it. The 28MP sensor lacks stabilization, but it produces attractive photos and supports up to 4K video. We particularly like how light and easy this camera is to carry around, while the front-facing LCD makes taking selfies effortless.
Who It's For
Family photographers: The EOS RP features eye detection for both people and pets, and delivers the image quality you expect from a premium, full-frame camera. It's a capable camera for family and vacation snapshots.
Bokeh fanatics on a budget: If you want to capture photos with soft, blurred backgrounds, you'll want a full-frame sensor and a lens with a bright aperture. The EOS RP and RF 50mm F1.8 STM lens are among the most affordable options in the class, and they deliver the bokeh you want for portraits.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Type Canon LP-E17 Connectivity Bluetooth Connectivity Headphone (3.5mm) Connectivity Microphone (3.5mm) Connectivity mini HDMI Connectivity Remote (Canon E3) Connectivity USB-C Connectivity Wi-Fi Dimensions 3.5 by 5.2 by 2.8 inches Display Resolution 1.04 Display Size 3.0 inches EVF Resolution 2.36 HDMI Output 4:2:2 8-bit Lens Mount Canon RF Maximum ISO 102400 Memory Card Format SDXC (UHS-II) Memory Card Slots 1 Minimum ISO 50 Sensor Resolution 26 Sensor Size Full-Frame (24 x 36mm) Sensor Type CMOS Stabilization None Touch Screen Type Mirrorless Video Resolution 4K Viewfinder Magnification 0.7x Viewfinder Type EVF Weight 1.1 Learn More Canon EOS RP Review Review -
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![Canon EOS R10]()
Best Autofocus SystemCanon EOS R10
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Canon EOS R10 brings the company's beloved Rebel series into the world of mirrorless cameras. In addition to featuring the comfortable controls and interface that make Canon a household brand, this camera offers solid picture quality and fantastic autofocus. Beginners should appreciate just how fast and accurate the R10 is at finding subjects, while creature comforts like a built-in flash are handy too.
Who It's For
Family photographers: The EOS R10 features an easy-to-use automatic mode, along with fast and accurate focus with face and eye detection for both people and pets, as well as a built-in flash. It's a great choice for family events and vacations, as well as capturing portraits of your kids and pets.
Sports and wildlife photographers: With 15fps tracking and an excellent focus system that tracks people, wildlife, and vehicles, the EOS R10 is a fine starter camera for action scenes. Canon offers a few excellent long lenses for beginners, including the RF 100-400mm zoom, which is ideal for field sports, and the RF 600mm F11 prime, perfect for capturing animals and birds in the wild.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Type Canon LP-E17 Connectivity Bluetooth Connectivity micro HDMI Connectivity Microphone (3.5mm) Connectivity Remote (2.5mm) Connectivity USB-C Connectivity Wi-Fi Dimensions 3.5 by 4.8 by 3.3 inches Display Resolution 1.04 Display Size 3 inches EVF Resolution 2.4 HDMI Output 4:2:0 8-bit (SDR), 4:2:2 10-bit (HDR) Lens Mount Canon RF Maximum ISO 51200 Memory Card Format SDXC (UHS-II) Memory Card Slots 1 Minimum ISO 100 Sensor Resolution 24 Sensor Size APS-C Sensor Type CMOS Stabilization None Touch Screen Type Mirrorless Video Resolution 4K Viewfinder Magnification 0.60x Viewfinder Type EVF Weight 15.1 Learn More Canon EOS R10 Review -
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![Fujifilm X-T30 III]()
Best Retro-Style Mirrorless Camera for BeginnersFujifilm X-T30 III
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Fujifilm X-T30 III mixes retro style with modern camera tech. Its stylish exterior is highlighted by discrete dials for shutter speed (to freeze or blur motion) and EV (scene brightness), plus it includes a fully automatic mode and a built-in flash. It's a good beginner option thanks to its smart, reliable autofocus system and Film Simulation profiles, a set of built-in looks that add stylized tones and grain to pictures, giving them a vintage vibe. Its Raw capture and manual controls give you room to grow as you learn more about photography.
Who It's For
Family photographers: If you're the default family historian, the X-T30 III is a capable camera to get photos at holiday gatherings, graduations and other life events, kids and pets at play, and vacations. Its built-in flash lights up interiors and fills in shadows on bright days, its autofocus is reliable for people and pets, and its Film Simulation engine makes images that stand out from smartphone snaps.
Budding artists: If you're looking to take up photography as an artistic pursuit, the X-T30 III is a great starting point, with tactile controls that make it easy to learn exposure settings. Fujifilm backs the camera with an extensive lens library to cover different scenes, and Film Simulations snap photos with a finished, edited look that'll help you rack up likes on Instagram.
Travel photographers: The X-T30 III is pretty small and light, and it works with a wide array of compact lenses, making it a good option if you want a camera that fits in a carry-on.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Type Fujifilm NP-W126S Connectivity Bluetooth Connectivity micro HDMI Connectivity Microphone/Remote (2.5mm) Connectivity USB-C Connectivity Wi-Fi Dimensions 3.3 by 4.7 by 1.8 inches Display Resolution 1.6 Display Size 3 inches EVF Resolution 2.4 Flat Profile HDMI Output 4:2:2 10-bit Lens Mount Fujifilm X Maximum ISO 51200 Memory Card Format SDXC (UHS-I) Memory Card Slots 1 Minimum ISO 80 Sensor Resolution 26 Sensor Size APS-C Sensor Type X-Trans BSI CMOS Stabilization None Touch Screen Type Mirrorless Video Resolution 6.2K Viewfinder Magnification 0.62x Viewfinder Type EVF Weight 13.3 Learn More Fujifilm X-T30 III Review -
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![Nikon Z 5]()
Best Affordable Full-Frame With Weather ProtectionNikon Z 5
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The Nikon Z 5 is a good choice for photographers who want to start with a full-frame camera and prioritize durability. This one's build quality is nearly on par with the midrange Z5II; it has a magnesium alloy chassis, weather sealing, and dual memory card slots. It produces high-quality 24MP photos and pairs well with a slim 24-50mm starter zoom, though the maximum 4.5fps burst rate limits its utility for action scenarios.
Who It's For
Budget-minded outdoor photographers: The Z 5 is the most compelling full-frame camera for nature and landscape photographers working within a budget. Its stabilized full-frame sensor makes it possible to take long exposure photos without a tripod, a plus for landscape scenes that blur running water. And since it is weather-sealed, you can comfortably bring it along for a hike or weekend camping trip.
Family photographers: If you want a camera to take photos at family events or take portraits of your kids and pets, the Z 5 is a good option. Its full-frame sensor nets clear results in all kinds of light, and its autofocus system includes face and eye detection for people and animals.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Type Nikon EN-EL15c Connectivity Bluetooth Connectivity Headphone (3.5mm) Connectivity Microphone (3.5mm) Connectivity mini HDMI Connectivity Nikon DC2 Connectivity USB-C Connectivity Wi-Fi Dimensions 4.0 by 5.3 by 2.7 inches Display Resolution 1.04 Display Size 3.2 inches EVF Resolution 3.7 Flat Profile HDMI Output 4:2:2 8-bit Lens Mount Nikon Z Maximum ISO 102400 Memory Card Format SDXC (UHS-II) Memory Card Slots 2 Minimum ISO 100 Sensor Resolution 24 Sensor Size Full-Frame (24 x 36mm) Sensor Type CMOS Stabilization 5-Axis IBIS Touch Screen Type Mirrorless Video Resolution 4K Viewfinder Magnification 0.8x Viewfinder Type EVF Weight 1.3 Learn More Nikon Z 5 Review -
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![Sony a6100]()
Best Selection of LensesSony a6100
Pros & Cons
Why We Picked It
The a6100 is the most affordable camera that takes Sony E-mount lenses. That's a major benefit because the mount's robust third-party support and a long time in the market mean there is a wealth of low-cost options available. The a6100 is no slouch either. It supports tracking focus with face and eye detection for people, can take photos at 11fps, and records 4K30 video.
Who It's For
Family photographers: The a6100's snappy autofocus system includes face and eye detection for people and pets, and automatic operation makes it easy for anyone to use the camera.
Action and wildlife photographers: With an 11fps tracking rate, the a6100 can keep up with fast-paced sports action and is a good choice for capturing wildlife photos too. You'll want to add a telephoto lens, and thankfully, there are plenty from which to choose.
Travel photographers: The a6100 is one of the smallest and lightest mirrorless cameras, making it a good option if you want to take a dedicated camera with you for travel without dealing with bulky gear.
Specs & Configurations
Battery Type Sony NP-FW50 Connectivity Bluetooth Connectivity micro HDMI Connectivity micro USB Connectivity Microphone (3.5mm) Connectivity Wi-Fi Dimensions 2.6 by 4.7 by 2.3 inches Display Resolution 921600 Display Size 3 inches EVF Resolution 1.44 HDMI Output 4:2:2 8-bit Lens Mount Sony E Maximum ISO 51200 Memory Card Format SDXC (UHS-I)/Memory Stick Duo Memory Card Slots 1 Minimum ISO 100 Sensor Resolution 24 Sensor Size APS-C (24 x 16mm) Sensor Type CMOS Stabilization None Touch Screen Type Mirrorless Video Resolution 4K Viewfinder Magnification 0.7x Viewfinder Type EVF Weight 14 Learn More Sony a6100 Review Review -
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Rating |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.0 Excellent |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.0 Excellent |
4.5 Outstanding |
4.0 Excellent |
4.5 Outstanding |
Best For | Best Splurge-Worthy Mirrorless With Stabilization | Best Entry-Level Mirrorless Camera | Best for Beginners With Enthusiast Aspirations | Best Entry Level Full-Frame for Action Photography | Best Starter Camera for Vlogging | Best $1,000 Full-Frame Camera | Best Autofocus System | Best Retro-Style Mirrorless Camera for Beginners | Best Affordable Full-Frame With Weather Protection | Best Selection of Lenses | Best Splurge-Worthy Mirrorless With Stabilization | Best Entry-Level Mirrorless Camera | Best for Beginners With Enthusiast Aspirations |
Dimensions | 3.4 by 5.0 by 2.6 inches | 3.8 by 5.0 by 2.6 inches | 4.0 by 5.3 by 2.8 inches | 3.4 by 5.2 by 2.8 inches | 3.4 by 4.6 by 2.7 inches | 3.5 by 5.2 by 2.8 inches | 3.5 by 4.8 by 3.3 inches | 3.3 by 4.7 by 1.8 inches | 4.0 by 5.3 by 2.7 inches | 2.6 by 4.7 by 2.3 inches | 3.4 by 5.0 by 2.6 inches | 3.8 by 5.0 by 2.6 inches | 4.0 by 5.3 by 2.8 inches |
Weight | 1.1 | 17.5 | 1.5 | 1 | 13.1 | 1.1 | 15.1 | 13.3 | 1.3 | 14 | 1.1 | 17.5 | 1.5 |
Type | Mirrorless | Mirrorless | Mirrorless | Mirrorless | Mirrorless | Mirrorless | Mirrorless | Mirrorless | Mirrorless | Mirrorless | Mirrorless | Mirrorless | Mirrorless |
Sensor Resolution | 26 | 20.9 | 24.5 | 24 | 24 | 26 | 24 | 26 | 24 | 24 | 26 | 20.9 | 24.5 |
Sensor Type | X-Trans BSI CMOS | CMOS | BSI CMOS | CMOS | CMOS | CMOS | CMOS | X-Trans BSI CMOS | CMOS | CMOS | X-Trans BSI CMOS | CMOS | BSI CMOS |
Sensor Size | APS-C | APS-C | Full-Frame | Full-Frame | APS-C | Full-Frame (24 x 36mm) | APS-C | APS-C | Full-Frame (24 x 36mm) | APS-C (24 x 16mm) | APS-C | APS-C | Full-Frame |
Lens Mount | Fujifilm X | Nikon Z | Nikon Z | Canon RF | Canon RF | Canon RF | Canon RF | Fujifilm X | Nikon Z | Sony E | Fujifilm X | Nikon Z | Nikon Z |
Memory Card Slots | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 |
Memory Card Format | SDXC (UHS-II) | SDXC (UHS-II) | SDXC (UHS-II) | SDXC (UHS-II) | SDXC (UHS-II) | SDXC (UHS-II) | SDXC (UHS-II) | SDXC (UHS-I) | SDXC (UHS-II) | SDXC (UHS-I)/Memory Stick Duo | SDXC (UHS-II) | SDXC (UHS-II) | SDXC (UHS-II) |
Battery Type | Fujifilm NP-W235 | Nikon EN-EL25a | Nikon EN-EL15c | Canon LP-E17 | Canon LP-E17 | Canon LP-E17 | Canon LP-E17 | Fujifilm NP-W126S | Nikon EN-EL15c | Sony NP-FW50 | Fujifilm NP-W235 | Nikon EN-EL25a | Nikon EN-EL15c |
Minimum ISO | 80 | 100 | 50 | 100 | 100 | 50 | 100 | 80 | 100 | 100 | 80 | 100 | 50 |
Maximum ISO | 51200 | 204800 | 204800 | 204800 | 51200 | 102400 | 51200 | 51200 | 102400 | 51200 | 51200 | 204800 | 204800 |
35mm Equivalent (Wide) | |||||||||||||
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Optical Zoom | |||||||||||||
Stabilization | 5-Axis IBIS | None | 5-Axis IBIS | None | Digital | None | None | None | 5-Axis IBIS | None | 5-Axis IBIS | None | 5-Axis IBIS |
Display Size | 3.0 inches | 3.2 inches | 3.2 inches | 3.0 inches | 3 inches | 3.0 inches | 3 inches | 3 inches | 3.2 inches | 3 inches | 3.0 inches | 3.2 inches | 3.2 inches |
Display Resolution | 1.8 | 1.04 | 2.1 | 1.62 | 1.04 | 1.04 | 1.04 | 1.6 | 1.04 | 921600 | 1.8 | 1.04 | 2.1 |
Touch Screen | |||||||||||||
Viewfinder Type | EVF | EVF | EVF | EVF | None | EVF | EVF | EVF | EVF | EVF | EVF | EVF | EVF |
Viewfinder Magnification | 0.62x | 0.68x | 0.8x | 0.7x | 0.7x | 0.60x | 0.62x | 0.8x | 0.7x | 0.62x | 0.68x | 0.8x | |
EVF Resolution | 2.36 | 2.4 | 3.7 | 2.4 | 2.36 | 2.4 | 2.4 | 3.7 | 1.44 | 2.36 | 2.4 | 3.7 | |
Connectivity | Bluetooth, USB-C, Wi-Fi, micro HDMI, Microphone (3.5mm), Headphone (3.5mm), Remote (2.5mm) | Wi-Fi, micro HDMI, Microphone (3.5mm), Headphone (3.5mm), Bluetooth, USB-C | Wi-Fi, micro HDMI, USB-C, Bluetooth, Microphone (3.5mm), Headphone (3.5mm) | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C, micro HDMI, Microphone (3.5mm), Headphone (3.5mm), Remote (2.5mm) | Wi-Fi, micro HDMI, Microphone (3.5mm), Headphone (3.5mm), Bluetooth, Remote (2.5mm) | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Remote (Canon E3), USB-C, mini HDMI, Headphone (3.5mm), Microphone (3.5mm) | Bluetooth, USB-C, Wi-Fi, micro HDMI, Microphone (3.5mm), Remote (2.5mm) | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB-C, Microphone/Remote (2.5mm), micro HDMI | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, mini HDMI, USB-C, Headphone (3.5mm), Microphone (3.5mm), Nikon DC2 | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, micro USB, micro HDMI, Microphone (3.5mm) | Bluetooth, USB-C, Wi-Fi, micro HDMI, Microphone (3.5mm), Headphone (3.5mm), Remote (2.5mm) | Wi-Fi, micro HDMI, Microphone (3.5mm), Headphone (3.5mm), Bluetooth, USB-C | Wi-Fi, micro HDMI, USB-C, Bluetooth, Microphone (3.5mm), Headphone (3.5mm) |
Maximum Waterproof Depth | |||||||||||||
Video Resolution | 4K, 6K (3:2) | 4K | 4K | 4K | 4K | 4K | 4K | 6.2K | 4K | 4K | 4K, 6K (3:2) | 4K | 4K |
HDMI Output | 4:2:2 12-bit | 4:2:2 10-bit | 4:2:2 12-bit | 4:2:2 10-bit | 4:2:2 10-bit | 4:2:2 8-bit | 4:2:0 8-bit (SDR), 4:2:2 10-bit (HDR) | 4:2:2 10-bit | 4:2:2 8-bit | 4:2:2 8-bit | 4:2:2 12-bit | 4:2:2 10-bit | 4:2:2 12-bit |
Flat Profile |
Buying Guide: The Best Mirrorless and SLR Cameras for Beginners in 2026
Why Most Beginners Shouldn't Buy an SLR
There's a better-than-average chance that you're reading this after searching for recommendations on SLRs for beginners. And here's what we have to say about that: Most beginners shouldn't buy SLRs. That doesn't mean you shouldn't get a camera that supports swappable lenses; it means you're better off starting with a mirrorless model with an electronic viewfinder (EVF) rather than an SLR with an optical viewfinder.
Technology has moved beyond the optical viewfinder. A decade ago, the best cameras were all SLRs; today, they are mirrorless. The idea remains the same—a large image sensor, interchangeable lenses, and a direct view through the lens—but now the image sensor creates the view and displays it on a rear screen or an eye-level electronic viewfinder. For more on the differences, read our comparison of the two camera types.
There are palpable advantages for beginners. For one, you get a preview of your exposure in the EVF, allowing you to experiment with manual exposure modes and see the results in real time. Autofocus coverage typically extends much farther, so you get more freedom to position a subject in the frame. Focus is faster and more accurate with on-sensor tech, too, and the EVF design lets you seamlessly switch between still and movie modes.
The creative side is there, too. If you're thinking of shooting in black and white, you can set a mirrorless camera to preview your scenes in monochrome. The same is true for any color looks you want to apply—almost every camera offers vivid and neutral modes, but others extend them to more artistic looks.
We don't include any SLRs in our latest list of beginner cameras. The most recent model that we suggested, the Canon EOS Rebel SL3, is no longer available for purchase, another indicator that the big camera makers are all-in on mirrorless tech. If you want a basic SLR, consider buying a second-hand and target a good entry-level body like SL3, Canon EOS Rebel T8i, Nikon D3500, or Nikon D5600. If you're determined to go with an optical viewfinder camera and want to buy new, you can get a higher-end body with a steep discount. The Nikon D7500 and D780 are the best options still available in stores.
And don't forget about lenses. Camera makers aren't making new glass for SLRs; all efforts are into mirrorless development. There are still plenty available in stock, new, but you should feel comfortable buying used lenses if you get an SLR today and want to expand its range with a telezoom, or get artsy with a macro. On the plus side, lenses last for a long, long time, and there are many bargains to be had. For more on buying used camera gear, read our guide.
Which Mirrorless Camera Is Best for Beginners?
When you buy an interchangeable lens camera, you're not just buying the camera. The system you choose dictates what lenses you can use.
That's not a big deal if you're just starting out—you most likely can get your camera of choice with a bundled zoom and expand your kit with any number of telephoto, wide-aperture prime, or macro lenses.
If you think you'll be moving to higher-end equipment down the road, take a little more into consideration. The Fujifilm X, Micro Four Thirds, and Sony E platforms offer the widest range of lenses. Canon EOS R and Nikon Z don't have quite as many options, but cover more than the basics. We don't recommend buying a Canon EOS M camera at this time as the system never took off, and Canon has moved on to its EOS R lineup.
For more details on what every camera system offers, check out our guide to choosing a system.
Is Full-Frame Good for Beginners?
Most cameras that brands market toward budding photographers use image sensors that are smaller than the 35mm film models of yesteryear. Those compact bodies tend to be more affordable, but there are some real reasons to consider a full-frame camera, even for beginners.
We recommend them to photographers who pursue more artistic disciplines (such as portraiture and landscapes), love the blurred-background bokeh look, or want to use old, manual-focus lenses to give images a more vintage feel.
Granted, there is a trade-off on price. Entry-grade full-frame cameras typically cost between $1,000 and $2,000, which is comparable to the price of a high-end APS-C sensor camera. Affordable full-frame cameras, such as the Canon EOS RP and Nikon Z 5, respectively, sacrifice some features to meet their price points.
If you're still mulling over a camera and want to get the best shots out of your phone, check out our smartphone photography tips and our more general advice for beginning photographers.