With camera stalwarts like Canon and Nikon announcing they'll no longer produce new DSLRs, mirrorless cameras have all but won the camera technology wars. While, for some, that may mean there's no better time to get a DSLR, as their prices drop, getting a mirrorless camera is the way to go if you want to enjoy the best that camera tech has to offer.
While we firmly believe that you don't need the latest or greatest camera to take good photos or enjoy photography—and we even think DSLRs can be some of the best cameras for beginners—mirrorless cameras have a few advantages. They're typically more portable than traditional DSLRs, feature responsive, precise autofocus systems, and have electronic viewfinders that let you preview exposure adjustments in real-time. They've come a long way in a short period, with a constantly expanding market of different models to suit a range of budgets and experience levels.
The good news is you can't go wrong with any modern camera released within the past few years. But we've bought and tested over 100 cameras in our lab to help you narrow down your options. Below, you'll find our top mirrorless camera recommendations for most people. If you're specifically looking for a full-frame model, check out the best full-frame mirrorless cameras we've tested instead. If you're buying your first camera, you might also want to look at our top mirrorless cameras for beginners. If you're more interested in video, you can look at our favorite cameras for videography and filmmaking, or vlogging.
The Sony α7 IV is the best mirrorless camera we've tested. This is a sure bet if you're looking for a powerful hybrid camera that can handle all kinds of photo and video work. Improving on the best-selling Sony α7 III, it has a new 33-megapixel sensor that captures an amazing level of detail. On top of that, it has an updated autofocus system with some of the most reliable AF tracking on the market and advanced features like in-body image stabilization (IBIS) and dual memory card slots. It's also a video beast, with 4k recording at up to 60 fps, albeit with an APS-C crop, and internal 10-bit 4:2:2 capture.
Another great option at this price point is the Canon EOS R6 Mark II. It's a good alternative to the Sony if you need faster burst shooting, with a burst rate of up to 40 fps in its electronic shutter mode. Unlike the Sony, it supports RAW video output over HDMI and uncropped 4k at 60 fps. However, lens selection is much broader for Sony's E-mount, with both native and third-party options available at various price points, making the α7 IV our top pick overall.
The Fujifilm X-H2S is one of the most capable APS-C cameras on the market and a great choice for advanced video work thanks to a stacked sensor that keeps the rolling shutter effect to a minimum. That sensor sits inside a sturdy, well-constructed body with weather-sealing. The camera also has in-body image stabilization for smoother handheld camera movements and a great battery life, along with Fujifilm's best autofocus system yet.
Beyond that, the X-H2S can record video in up to 6.2k resolution and supports a wide array of recording formats and codecs, including internal Apple ProRes support for less compressed video files. You also get advanced video features like Log recording in 10-bit 4:2:2 for a wider dynamic range and more flexibility in post, as well as RAW video output to a compatible external recorder. Overall, this is one of the best mirrorless cameras for video work.
The Nikon Z 6II is a more affordable full-frame option than the Sony α7 IV and a fantastic camera for photography. Though it falls behind in advanced video features, this is still a well-rounded camera for amateurs and enthusiasts. You'll get excellent image quality from its sensor and very quick burst shooting for faster subjects. Plus, it handles like a dream, with amazing ergonomics and an intuitive user interface. Though they can be expensive, Nikon's Z lenses are also spectacular, particularly the high-end S Line. However, lens selection is still somewhat limited.
If you're looking for a more portable kit and don't mind giving up a full-frame sensor, the Fujifilm X-T5 is a fantastic enthusiast-oriented APS-C model that falls around the same price point. Though its smaller sensor doesn't handle noise as well in low light as the Nikon's full-frame sensor, its remarkably high 40-megapixel resolution captures stunning detail and gives you more leeway to crop your images. However, its design is a bit more old school, with dedicated exposure dials and a smaller grip that won't suit everyone compared to the Nikon's more traditional ergonomics.
The Sony α6700 is the best mid-range model we've tested. It's an impressive upgrade from the older APS-C cameras Sony has to offer, with a higher-resolution sensor and a new processor with AI-driven autofocus—in fact, it's one of the most effective AF systems on the market. The camera's relatively portable design makes it a good fit for travel. If that wasn't enough, it features in-body image stabilization and some fairly advanced video features, including 4k120 (with a significant crop) and internal 10-bit 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 4k60 recording, 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.
As far as entry-level models go, the Fujifilm X-S10 is one of the best cameras in its price range. It's the predecessor to the Fujifilm X-S20, but it doesn't have features like internal 10-bit video recording and uses an older autofocus system. However, it's notably cheaper and still has a lot to offer for novice shooters. For one, it uses the same sensor, so image quality is excellent, and it's one of the few models on the market to offer in-body image stabilization at this price.
If you think you might want to upgrade to a full-frame camera down the line, consider the Canon EOS R10 instead. It doesn't have IBIS, but it's a great entry-level model with an accessible user interface and an excellent autofocus system. It's also part of Canon's RF lens ecosystem, so you can pair it with full-frame lenses and eventually upgrade to a full-frame body. However, that also makes it less portable than the X-S10.
If you're on a tighter budget but still want to buy new rather than dip into the used market, the Canon EOS R50 is one of the best bang-for-your-buck cameras you can get. With a portable body that makes it easy to grab and go, along with dead-simple controls and intuitive, creative shooting modes, this is a great entryway into "serious" photography for those who've never used a camera. Plus, its APS-C sensor captures excellent-quality images, and it has a highly effective autofocus system and good 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 available, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a great alternative. However, its Four Thirds sensor isn't as well-suited to low-light shooting, and its autofocus system isn't as reliable.
Nov 30, 2023: Moved the Canon EOS R7 to Notable Mentions and replaced it with the Sony α6700 as the mid-range pick, because the Sony is a bit cheaper and offers more lens options. Also added the Fujifilm X-S10 as the 'Best Entry-Level Mirrorless Camera'.
Nov 01, 2023: Replaced the Panasonic LUMIX S5 with the Panasonic LUMIX S5 II in the Notable Mentions because of its improved features.
Oct 06, 2023: Replaced the Canon EOS R7 with the Fujifilm X-S20 as the mid-range pick because it offers more value for most people, and removed the Fujifilm X-S10 to instead mention it as a cheaper alternative to the X-S20.
Sep 07, 2023: Checked that picks were still accurate and relevant to user needs.
Aug 11, 2023: Replaced the Canon EOS R6 Mark II with the Sony α7 IV and added mentions of the Fujifilm X-T5 and Fujifilm X-S20 as alternative options to some of our other picks.
Our recommendations above are what we think are currently the best mirrorless interchangeable-lens cameras for most people to buy, according to their needs. We factor in the price, feedback from our visitors, and availability (no cameras that are difficult to find or almost out of stock in the U.S.).
If you would like to choose for yourself, here's the list of all our reviews for interchangeable-lens mirrorless cameras. Be careful not to get caught up in the details. There is no single perfect camera. Personal taste, preference, and shooting habits will matter more in your selection.