Mirrorless cameras are a compelling choice for many buyers looking to buy a new camera. They're typically more portable than traditional DSLRs and feature responsive, precise autofocus systems and electronic viewfinders that let you preview exposure adjustments in real-time. In recent years, mirrorless cameras have come a long way to match and, in some ways, surpass the DSLR in performance and popularity, with a wide range of models to accommodate every budget and experience level.
We've bought and tested over 80 cameras in our lab, and below, you'll find our recommendations for the best mirrorless cameras to buy. If you're specifically looking for a full-frame model, check out our best full-frame mirrorless cameras article 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 filmmaking or vlogging.
The Canon EOS R6 Mark II is the best mirrorless camera we've tested. It's a worthy successor to the Canon EOS R6, with notable improvements, including a higher-resolution sensor, burst shooting up to 40 fps with the e-shutter, and 4k video recording up to 60 fps without a crop. On top of that, you still get in-body image stabilization (IBIS), weather-sealing, and intuitive controls. That makes this one of the most well-rounded full-frame cameras you can get at this price point.
Improvements aside, the R6 Mark II also delivers fantastic image quality with amazing low-light performance. Its autofocus system is also one of the most reliable on the market, with sophisticated subject tracking for fast-moving subjects like birds and athletes. The lens selection isn't quite as wide as Sony's E-mount, so if you're looking for more third-party lens support and variety, the Sony α7 IV is a great alternative. However, it can only record 4k / 60 fps video with a significant crop, and its ergonomics are somewhat lacking compared to the Canon.
If you want to save money, the Canon EOS R8 is another good choice. It uses the same sensor as the R6 Mark II, so image and video quality are comparable, but it's packaged in a smaller, cheaper body. There's no IBIS, and the camera's battery life leaves much to be desired, but it's a solid option for those who want R6-level image quality on a tighter budget.
The Nikon Z 6II is a more affordable full-frame option than the Canon EOS R6 Mark II and is a fantastic photography camera. 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 this camera and very quick burst shooting for faster subjects. Plus, it handles like a dream, with amazing ergonomics and an intuitive user interface.
Nikon's Z lenses are also spectacular, particularly the high-end S Line. However, these can be pricy and lens selection is still limited compared to competitors like Sony. If you'd prefer a wider selection of native and third-party lenses, the Sony α7 III is a great choice, although it has a lower-resolution EVF and slower burst shooting. While neither of these cameras supports internal 10-bit video recording like higher-end hybrids, they're phenomenal photography cameras in this price range.
The Canon EOS R7 is the best mid-range model we've tested. It's a well-rounded APS-C camera with everything you need to capture high-quality photos and videos. Although crop sensor RF lenses are still limited, you can always adapt EF lenses if you're already a Canon DSLR shooter. Besides, there's enough to love about this camera that it's still a top contender in this price range.
With its fantastic in-body image stabilization, you can easily shoot handheld at slower shutter speeds. The camera also has best-in-class autofocus and quick burst shooting, so it's a great choice for sports and wildlife photography. Performance aside, it's also sturdy and weather-sealed, with an outstanding battery life among mirrorless options. If you're considering an APS-C camera for portability, you may prefer the Fujifilm X-T4, which is more compact but has a less reliable autofocus system.
The Fujifilm X-S10 comes at a lower price than the Canon EOS R7 but still offers a ton of value. If you don't need more advanced features like internal 10-bit recording and weather sealing, the X-S10 is for you. While it lacks the dedicated exposure dials that Fuji fans are used to, its simpler mode dial is a bit more accessible to newcomers, and the camera has a deeper, more comfortable handgrip than its higher-end sibling, the Fujifilm X-T4.
The kicker, though, and what makes this one of the best-value APS-C cameras around, is that you still get built-in image stabilization, a rarity for cameras at this price point. Beyond that, it also uses the same high-resolution sensor found on the X-T4, meaning similar image and video quality at a more affordable price. Just don't forget to budget for the lens—Fuji lenses tend to be a bit pricier than the kit lens you get with, say, the Nikon Z 50 below.
The Nikon Z 50 is a great choice if you want to save a bit more money, especially if you don't need IBIS. With a kit lens included at a relatively affordable price, this model has much to offer for beginner photographers and more advanced users looking for a crop-sensor camera. While its sensor has a lower resolution than the Fujifilm X-S10, it can still capture excellent photos and performs relatively well in low light.
The Z 50 also stands out because of its handling. It isn't the most compact camera—for something more portable, you might want to look at the similarly-priced Sony α6400, though its ergonomics leave something to be desired. The Z 50, however, feels great in hand, and Nikon's intuitive user interface and ergonomics are among the best. All that and a solid kit lens make this a fantastic option if you're looking for an entry-level model at a reasonable price point.
If you're looking for something even more affordable than the Nikon Z 50, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is one of the best cheaper options. It's a beginner model that's easy to use and offers much value for its price. Unlike our previous picks, this camera has a Micro Four Thirds sensor, which takes smaller lenses and makes for a more portable overall kit. For that reason, this is a great choice for travel or street photography.
It's also one of the few cameras in its price range to offer in-body image stabilization, which reduces camera shake for vlogs or photos at slower shutter speeds. The camera's autofocus isn't as good as the similarly-priced Canon EOS M50 Mark II, or its replacement, the Canon EOS R50, which are great alternatives if you want a larger APS-C sensor for low-light shooting. However, the wide and affordable lens selection for the Olympus makes it a standout choice for beginners and budget shooters.
May 15, 2023: Added the Canon EOS R8 as an in-text alternative to the Canon EOS R6 Mark II and added the Fujifilm X-H2 to Notable Mentions.
Apr 17, 2023: Added the Nikon Z 6II as the 'Best Upper Mid-Range Mirrorless Camera', with the Sony α7 III as an in-text alternative, and shifted the other picks down accordingly. We also replaced the Fujifilm X-T4 with the Canon EOS R7 and added the OM SYSTEM OM-1 to Notable Mentions.
Mar 07, 2023: Replaced the Sony α7 IV with the Canon EOS R6 Mark II as the 'Best Mirrorless Camera'.
Feb 10, 2023: Replaced the Canon EOS M50 Mark II with the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV as the 'Best Budget Mirrorless Camera' and removed the Sony a6600 from Notable Mentions.
Jan 13, 2023: Verified accuracy of article, with minor adjustments to text for readability.
Our recommendations above are what we think are currently the best mirrorless 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.