The 6 Best Mirrorless Cameras - Summer 2024

The Nikon Z 6III is the best mirrorless model that we've tested. This model sits in the middle of Nikon's Z lineup, but it's one of the most capable hybrid cameras at its price point. This isn't cheap by any means, but for pros or committed hobbyists, it has a lot to offer. It's an especially good choice for action and wildlife photographers, thanks to its partially stacked sensor with a faster readout speed that allows for remarkably quick e-shutter burst shooting and reduces rolling shutter distortion. It also has a highly effective autofocus system with plenty of subject-detection modes. 

If you're a hybrid or video shooter, this is also the only camera we've tested with internal RAW video capability, and it can record in up to 6k at 30 fps, with 4k at up to 120 fps. Beyond that, it's just an incredibly well-built and comfortable camera to shoot with. It has a very high-res viewfinder, in-body image stabilization (IBIS), and CFexpress card support. The one big downside we can point to is that lens options are still somewhat limited for Nikon's Z mount, so if you want more lenses to choose from, the Sony α7 IV may be preferable, but it's a bit less capable for video and has slower burst shooting. All in all, the Z 6III is an impressive camera that can handle pretty much anything you can throw at it.

The Panasonic LUMIX S5 II is one of the best mirrorless cameras for video for most people, thanks to high-end video specs like internal 10-bit 4:2:2 color and support for a wide range of recording formats. While it doesn't have some features offered on the pricier Nikon Z 6III, like internal RAW recording, you can't really beat the value it offers for the price. The original Panasonic LUMIX S5 is also a steal of a camera, so it's a great alternative if you need to save some money, but the S5 II improves upon the formula with a new phase-detection AF system that offers quicker and smoother autofocusing for those that need it.

The camera also has a fantastic IBIS system and a full-frame sensor that's well-suited to shooting in less controlled lighting situations. The Panasonic LUMIX GH6 offers some extra features for even more advanced filmmaking, like internal ProRes codecs and external RAW video output right out of the box. It's part of the Micro Four Thirds system, so there's also a wider range of affordable lens options. However, the S5 II's cheaper body price, larger sensor, and overall feature set make it a fantastic option for the money.

If you prefer the portability and smaller lenses offered by the APS-C format, the Fujifilm X-T5 is one of the best APS-C cameras we've tested. It has the highest-resolution APS-C sensor on the market, with a 40.2-megapixel resolution that captures stunning detail and gives you more leeway to crop your images. The camera's relatively portable design, tilting screen, and dedicated exposure dials are great for street photographers and make it easy to change settings on the fly. The camera even boasts impressive video features, like 10-bit internal recording and 4k capture at up to 60 fps.

If you can stretch your budget and don't mind giving up some portability, the Fujifilm X-H2S is another fantastic APS-C option. It's a more expensive camera, so the X-T5 is a better deal for most shooters, but the pro-centric design of the X-H2S and its stacked sensor make it a great fit for high-level action photography and video work. It has slightly better internal video recording specs, including support for ProRes formats, and suffers much less rolling shutter distortion. However, the X-T5 is a bit cheaper and more portable.

The Sony α6700 is the best mid-range model we've tested. It's an impressive upgrade from Sony's older APS-C cameras like the Sony α6600, with a new sensor and processor, including a new AI-powered chipset that gives the α6700 one of the most effective AF systems on the market. The camera is also relatively portable, has IBIS, and includes some fairly advanced video features, including 4k at 120 fps (albeit with a significant crop) and internal 10-bit 4:2:2 recording.

Another great choice in this price range is the Fujifilm X-S20. Its autofocus system isn't quite as reliable as the Sony's, and it can't record 4k video at 120 fps. However, it's still a very impressive hybrid camera, with 4k 60 fps recording. Unlike the α6700, it even supports open gate 6.2k video capability and RAW video output to an external recorder. Those who prefer a more hands-off approach to editing will also love Fuji's JPEG colors and film simulation profiles, but Sony's extensive lens options and ultra-reliable AF make the α6700 a better overall pick.

The Canon EOS R10 is one of the best entry-level cameras you can buy. If you're looking for a well-rounded model that's accessible enough for newcomers but still offers more advanced features, the R10 nails that balance. It has great ergonomics, an intuitive user interface, and highly effective autofocus, plus quick burst shooting and excellent image quality for its class. Vloggers and video shooters can take advantage of 4k recording at up to 60 fps (with a crop), as well as a dedicated high frame rate mode for slow-motion recording at up to 120 fps in 1080p.

The Fujifilm X-S10 is another great choice at around the same price point. Unlike the R10, it features IBIS, which can help smooth out camera shake when shooting handheld. The X mount also has a more established lens lineup than Canon's RF mount. That said, the Canon camera has a significantly better autofocus system and more frame rate options. The X-S10 has also been discontinued, so you'd have to find one used.

If you're on a tighter budget, the Canon EOS R50 is one of the best bang-for-your-buck mirrorless cameras you can get brand new. Sitting below the Canon EOS R10, this is a great entryway into "serious" photography for those who've never used a camera before. It has a highly portable body that makes it easy to grab and go, along with simple controls and easy-to-use auto modes for beginners. Plus, its APS-C sensor captures excellent image quality, and this camera has a great autofocus system and video specs for the price.

Lens options for Canon's RF mount are still limited, but on the upside, the camera is compatible with both APS-C and full-frame RF lenses, which makes it easier to upgrade to a full-frame body down the line if you want to. If you'd like a more compact camera kit with more lens options, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a great alternative with a Micro Four Thirds sensor. However, its autofocus system isn't as reliable, and its ergonomics are somewhat lacking.