You can do better than your smartphone camera. Yes, it’s true that most people have acquired a sort of amateur photographer status, always ready to capture a moment with their high-resolution camera phone. We are in the age of social media and photo sharing, after all. But real photography requires real equipment. And what better way to immerse yourself in the world of photography than with a mirrorless camera?
Maybe you’re a camera newbie or looking to upgrade from a DSLR model? Perhaps you’re already a hybrid enthusiast looking for a much-needed upgrade? Either way, mirrorless is the last word in digital photography technology.
Knowing where to start is especially difficult for photography beginners, with all the jargon, specifications and brand names to understand. But we can help you sort things out and, of course, get you up to speed. Here’s some helpful information and a roundup of the best mirrorless cameras available today.
What is a mirrorless camera?
The clue is in the title, although we appreciate that doesn’t make it any easier to understand. DSLR cameras reflect images into the camera’s viewfinder via a mirror placed between the lens and the camera’s sensor. But mirrorless cameras use an electronic viewfinder (EVF), which is an LCD monitor located on the back of the camera body. Light enters the lens and is digitally converted and displayed on the monitor.
Is mirrorless better than DSLR?
Mirrorless cameras – sometimes called mirrorless cameras – have overtaken DSLR cameras as the most popular choice for photographers. The main selling point is that mirrorless cameras are lighter and much less bulky. They are much easier to take on trips and generally transport. But that’s not all they’re good for. Here are some other cool mirrorless camera features:
Executive Vice President Monitor — The monitor allows you to easily frame your subject in “live view” and access features via the touchscreen. These monitors are often “vari-angle,” meaning they hinge outward and in all directions, which is ideal for framing selfies.
IBIS — This is the technical term for in-body image stabilization. This essentially stabilizes the sensor so you can shoot handheld, without needing a tripod or gimbal. Not all mirrorless cameras come with IBIS, but it’s becoming more common.
Autofocus — This is a standard camera feature, but often more cumbersome in DSLRs. Mirrorless cameras can have very advanced autofocus that tracks faces and eyes or fast-moving objects. You may be able to refocus with a quick tap on the touchscreen.
4K video — OK, so it’s not just mirrorless that shoots video. Some DSLRs also shoot video, but mirrorless cameras are geared toward better video performance and features. Shooting 4K sometimes crops the image (depends on how advanced the camera is), but you can also find mirrorless cameras with 6K-8K quality resolution.
Other features, while not exclusive to mirrorless devices, include WiFi and Bluetooth, app support, and fast burst speeds (measured in frames per second – fps).
What are the disadvantages of mirrorless cameras?
There are always pros and cons. Due to their smaller size, mirrorless battery power isn’t always as good as DSLR cameras, and mirrorless cameras tend to be more expensive. Another common complaint is that because the technology is newer, there are fewer lens and accessory options. But this is a temporary problem.
How much does a mirrorless camera cost?
We won’t lie to you. They’re not exactly cheap. The cheapest camera on this list costs around £500 and can easily cost thousands of pounds. Even beginners can expect to spend around £500. The photography game is expensive.
What is the best mirrorless camera?
This is a question only you can answer, because every photographer is different. Whether you’re a beginner, enthusiast, or professional, there’s a camera that’s right for you, but it might not be right for the photographer next to you. Because just like real photos, no two photographers are the same. But we can help you find the best mirrorless camera for you by directing you to some awesome models and putting them in (auto)focus. The choice is yours. We are just trying to give you a clear picture.
These are the best mirrorless cameras in 2025.
