If you're shopping for a mirrorless camera, you've come to the right place! At Camera Labs I write in-depth reviews of cameras but understand you're busy people who sometimes just want recommendations of the most outstanding products. So here I'll cut to the chase and list the best mirrorless cameras around right now.
On this page you'll find the best mirrorless cameras on the market today from entry-level options to models aimed at tempting pros away from their traditional DSLRs. Technically speaking all point-and-shoot cameras are mirrorless, but on this page I'm talking about models with bigger sensors which can rival DSLRs for quality, control and handling. I'll be including system cameras with interchangeable lenses along with models with fixed lenses. But again what they all have in common are big sensors, great optics, lots of control and decent handling - and of course the absence of a mirror! I strongly believe these cameras represent the future of photography for all but the most specialist owners, so if you're thinking mirrorless is the way to go, you're in the right place! Note by definition this category excludes Sony's SLT range, which you'll instead find in my other buyer's guides.
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| Olympus E-PM1 review |
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The Olympus E-PM1 is one of the most affordable mirror-less CSCs to date. Nick-named the 'PEN Mini', the E-PM1 doesn't replace an existing model, but is a new entry in the Olympus range designed to appeal to those who want to step up from a point-and-shoot or a more portable alternative to a budget DSLR. As such it's smaller, lighter, more accessible and crucially cheaper than its more sophisticated siblings, the E-PL3 and E-P3. But don't let the price and position in the range fool you: the E-PM1 features the same 12 Megapixel sensor as the higher-end PENs, a full-sized hotshoe for accessories and like all Olympus models, boasts built-in stabilisation which works with any lens you attach. Couple all that with great manual control or simple auto if you prefer and you've got a compelling CSC at a fabulous price - even more so now the E-PM2 has been released. It's also one of the cheapest ways to enjoy the extensive Micro Four Thirds lens catalogue.
Pros: Built-in stabilisation; 1080i video; hotshoe; low price; broad lens catalogue.
Cons: Flash supplied, but not built-in. No touch-screen.
Overall: An affordable CSC which doesn't compromise. |
| Nikon J1 - see Nikon V1 review |
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Nikon's J1 is the cheaper of two models which launched the new Nikon 1 system. Both the J1 and its higher-end sibling the V1 boast quicker autofocus, tracking and continuous shooting than any camera in their price bracket. They'll also continuously autofocus while filming HD video and even let you grab a bunch of high resolution stills at the same time. As such they'll be adored by action and portrait photographers alike, especially when shooting or filming kids or pets. Nikon's also had fun repackaging these core capabilities into a number of fun modes which take a different approach to photography. The pricier V1 has some nice extras, but for me, the J1 is the more compelling option with a smaller and lighter body (in five colours!), built-in flash and much cheaper price point. This could be the best camera for parents of sporty kids, pet-owners or action fanatics on a budget. It's also more affordable than ever now that Nikon's second-generation models are out.
Pros: Fast AF, fast burst modes, HD video with high-res stills.
Cons: No special effects; no accessory port;
Overall: Perfect for parents, pet owners and action fanatics. |
| Sony NEX C3 review |
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Sony's NEX-C3 is the company's earlier entry-level CSC, which packs a DSLR-sized sensor into a much more portable body. Like all NEX bodies, the C3 features nothing less than an APS-C sensor, which matches the size of those in most budget to mid-range DSLRs. The C3's sensor sports 16 Megapixels and can also record 720p movies. Sony's also squeezed-in a detailed screen which can tilt vertically for easier composition at unusual angles. Like most Sony cameras, the NEX-C3 also boasts a wide array of innovative shooting modes which can stack multiple images to reduce noise, shake or generate spectacular panoramas. The neat focus-peaking guide greatly aids manual focusing in movies and there's also 5.5fps burst shooting. A great alternative to a budget DSLR, but if you've got more to spend, consider the NEX-5R. Also look for bargains since the newer NEX F3 is available.
Pros: Large APS-C sensor; tilting screen; clever shooting modes.
Cons: No hotshoe and no 1080 video either.
Overall: A small CSC which delivers excellent quality. |
| Panasonic Lumix G5 review |
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Panasonic's Lumix G5 is a 16 Megapixel mirrorless system camera that's styled like a mini-DSLR and based on the Micro Four Thirds standard, giving it access to the broadest range of native lenses of any mirrorless system. Like its predecessor the G3 (note there wasn't a G4), it sports a high resolution electronic viewfinder and a fully-articulated touch-screen. It also shares the same 16 Megapixel resolution of the G3, but with a new sensor and image processor which now offers 1080p video. Other upgrades include 6fps shooting, three-frame HDR, a selection of art effects, a silent shutter option, a new lever for motorised power zoom lenses and the ability to touch-focus with the screen while composing with the viewfinder. In addition to full manual exposure control it's also got a clever Auto mode, one of the fastest contrast-based AF systems around and very respectable image quality which should have you rethinking whether a traditional DSLR really is for you. If you can live without the G5's updates over its predecessor, it's also worth keeping an eye open for bargains on the earlier G3.
Pros: Quick focusing; 3in articulated touch-screen; high res viewfinder; 1080p video.
Cons: No manual exposures for movies; average battery life; no Wifi.
Overall: A great value camera that's arguably better than a DSLR for many people.
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| Panasonic Lumix GX1 review |
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Panasonic's GX1 is a 16 Megapixel compact system camera based on the Micro Four Thirds standard. It's a relatively pocketable camera without a built-in viewfinder, but unlike the recent GF models, it's aimed squarely at enthusiasts. So while it does have a touch-screen, there's a model dial, decent-sized grip and plenty of controls and customisation, along with a popup flash and a standard hotshoe too. You can slide a flash onto the hotshoe, or an optional electronic viewfinder if you prefer. Like all Micro Four Thirds models to date the AF is contrast-based only without any phase-detect assistance, but it's very quick in use. HDR fanatics will also be pleased to find seven-frame bracketing available. On the downside there's no microphone input or accessory, the screen doesn't tilt, and unlike the Olympus PEN and OMD models, no built-in stabilization. But overall the image quality and 1080i movies - inherited from the G3 - are very respectable and the camera is satisfying to use. Indeed I chose this model to take on an extended working holiday due to its size, control and compatibility with the broad Micro Four Thirds lens catalogue. Look out for good deals on the GX1 as it's now a year old.
Pros: Quick focusing; touch-screen; broad lens catalogue.
Cons: Screen doesn't tilt; no microphone input; no 1080p; no built-in IS.
Overall: Great for enthusiasts who demand lots of control in a small package. |
| Sony RX100 review |
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The Sony RX100 is a pocket-sized compact with a larger than average 20.2 Megapixel sensor, 3.6x Carl Zeiss zoom, and a detailed 3in screen. It has a bright f1.8 maximum aperture (when zoomed-out), 10fps burst shooting, RAW recording and 1080p HD video. Along with full manual control it also has intelligent Auto for point-and-shoot operation and includes a multitude of stacking modes in addition to Sony's famous Sweep panorama. But arguably the most important thing is squeezing a 1in sensor (with 2.8 times the area of those in the Panasonic LX7 and Canon S110), into a body that's little larger than a Canon S110. This alone will sell it to many enthusiasts and it certainly doesn't disappoint. But do compare carefully with the LX7 as it may be a closer contest than the specs imply.
Pros: Big 1in sensor in a truly pocketable camera.
Cons: No hotshoe, Wifi, GPS or viewfinder option. Fixed lens.
Overall: One of the most compelling compacts for enthusiasts. |
| Olympus E-PL5 review |
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The E-PL5 is the mid-range model in the Olympus PEN range. Like other PEN models, it's an CSC, based on the Micro Four Thirds format, which packs a large sensor into a small body. The E-PL5 employs the same 16 Megapixel sensor as the top-end OM-D E-M5 (see my semi-pro section), and this also means you get 1080p video. The continuous shooting isn't quite as fast, but is still impressive at 8fps. On the top is a hotshoe which supports flashes or an optional viewfinder, while round the back is a 16:9 touch-sensitive screen which tilts vertically for easy composition at unusual angles and can even flip round to face the subject. What really makes the Olympus PEN cameras stand out from the competition though is built-in stabilisation which works with any lens you attach. Couple all these features with great image quality straight out the box and you've got one of the best CSCs around. If money's tight, also consider the cheaper E-PM1 in the budget section, or look out for discounted options on its predecessor, the E-PL3.
Pros: Built-in stabilisation; great quality; 1080p; 8fps; tilting touch-screen; broad lens catalogue.
Cons: 16:9 screen not iideal shape for shooting 4:3 photos.
Overall: Compelling features and quality make for a great CSC. |
| Canon EOS M review |
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Canon's EOS M is the company's first mirrorless system camera. It employs the same 18 Megapixel APS-C sensor as the EOS T4i / 650D DSLR, but matches it with a new EF-M lens mount designed to exploit the shorter flange to sensor distance. Of all the mirrorless system cameras, the EOS M launched with the fewest number of native lenses with just the choice of a 22mm f2.0 unstabilised pancake prime and a stabilized 18-55mm f3.5-5.6 zoom, but the unique selling point of the EOS M is its ability to accommodate the extensive catalogue of existing EF lenses with an optional adapter, and retain autofocus, auto exposure and IS where present. That's the good news. The bad news is autofocusing on the EOS M whether using native EF-M lenses or EF models via the adapter is leisurely to put it kindly. Think of Live View AF on a Canon DSLR and you'll have an idea. This rules it out for a lot of spontaneous or action shooting, and those with kids or pets may find it frustrating to say the least. But the simple fact it offers any kind of AF with EF lenses will be enough to sell it to many existing Canon DSLR owners, and the image and movie quality is certainly very good. But if you don't have existing Canon EF lenses, there are better mirrorless system cameras to invest in here.
Pros: Great image and movie quality. Works with EF lenses via an adapter.
Cons: Autofocusing with native or EF lenses is very slow. Only two native lenses at launch.
Overall: A sensible choice for anyone wanting to use EF lenses use on a small body. |
| Sony NEX 5R |
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Sony's NEX-5R is the company's mid-range Compact System Camera (CSC), which packs a DSLR-sized sensor into a much more portable body. Like all NEX bodies, the 5R features nothing less than an APS-C sensor, which matches the size of those in most budget to mid-range DSLRs. The 5R's sensor sports 16 Megapixels and can also record 1080p movies. Sony's also squeezed-in a detailed 3in touch-screen which can tilt vertically for easier composition at unusual angles. Like most Sony cameras, the NEX-5R also boasts a wide array of innovative shooting modes which can stack multiple images to reduce noise, shake or generate spectacular panoramas. The neat focus-peaking guide greatly aids manual focusing in movies and there's also 10fps burst shooting. New to the 5R over its predecessor is built in Wifi which lets you upload images direct to Facebook or remote control the camera via a smartphone, and a bunch of quick and accurate phase detect AF points on the sensor to improve focusing accuracy. If you can live without the Wifi and AF enhancements though, look out for deals on its predecessor, the NEX 5N. See my Sony NEX 5N review for more details and check back soon for our 5R review!
Pros: Large APS-C sensor; tilting touch-screen; 1080p; Wifi; Phase Detect AF.
Cons: No hotshoe for third-party accessories.
Overall: One of the most feature-packed and best value CSCs. |
| Sony NEX 6 review |
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Sony's NEX 6 slots between the NEX 5R and the top-end NEX 7, and in many respects is a cross between them. Like all NEX models, it packs an APS-C sensor, but to avoid treading on the flagship's toes, Sony's fitted the NEX 6 with the same 16 Megapixel sensor as the 5R, leaving the NEX 7 to rule the roost with 24 Megapixels. But this does mean the NEX 6 enjoys the same on-chip phase-detect AF assistance as the 5R, compared to the 100% contrast-based NEX 7. Externally the NEX 6 greatly resembles the NEX 7, sharing its tilting screen, high resolution OLED viewfinder and popup flash, albeit not the magnesium alloy construction or mic input. And while it 'only' has two soft control dials, it does feature a first for the NEX system: a proper exposure mode dial, allowing you to switch between PASM and the auto modes with a simple twist. Like the NEX 7 there's a flash hotshoe, but joy-of-joys, it's a standard one making it easy to mount third-party accessories. And in one more trump over the NEX 7, it also boasts built-in Wifi which can push images to smartphones or direct to Facebook. Annoyingly the screen lacks the touch controls of the 5R, but for many the NEX 6 will be more tempting than the 7, especially bundled with the new 16-50mm Power Zoom lens. Are you sure you really need 24 Megapixels, a mic input and a non-plastic shell?
Pros: OLED viewfinder, tilting screen, standard hotshoe, Wifi, phase-detect AF.
Cons: Lacks the 24 Mpixels, mic input & tough build of the 7 and the touchscreen of the 5R.
Overall: If you're happy with 16 Mpixels and a plastic shell, it's arguably better than the NEX 7. |
| Sony NEX 7 review |
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The NEX-7 is Sony's flagship compact system camera. Like all NEX cameras it employs an APS-C sized sensor, this time with 24 Megapixels. It was also the first NEX to sport a built-in electronic viewfinder (one of the best around) along with a popup flash, hotshoe and microphone input. Sony's also addressed previous concerns over control with three customizable dials. In addition you get 10fps shooting, 1080p video at 50/60p and a tilting screen, all packed into a body that's smaller than a traditional DSLR. It all adds up to one of the best overall CSCs to date, although compare closely with the Olympus E-M5 and Panasonic GH3 which currently enjoy a much broader native lens selection and weatherproofing, to which the E-M5 also adds built-in IS. If you can live without 24 Megapixels and a microphone input, also consider the newer NEX-6 which adds Wifi, a mode dial and a standard hotshoe.
Pros: Superb EVF. Great movie options. Custom dials.
Cons: No weather-proofing. Basic bracketing.
Overall: One of the best higher-end CSCs. |
| Olympus OMD EM5 review |
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The OMD E-M5 is the first mirrorless compact system camera from Olympus with a built-in EVF and weatherproof construction. It's styled like the hugely popular OM series of 35mm SLRs in the Seventies, but inside is a thoroughly modern camera based on the Micro Four Thirds standard. It features 16 Mpixels, 9fps shooting, 1080p video, a vertically-tilting 3in OLED touch-screen, built-in 5-axis stabilisation which works with any lens and what Olympus claims is the World's fastest AF. Some may find the clip-on flash inconvenient and wish Olympus had equipped the E-M5 with a mic input and interval shooting, but overall it's one of the most satisfying compact system cameras to date and a personal favourite in the Cameralabs office. Compare closely with the Sony NEX-7 and Panasonic GH3.
Pros: Weatherproof, great EVF and screen, built-in IS, broad lens catalogue.
Cons: Flash not built-in, no mic input, screen tilts not flips.
Overall: A truly satisfying CSC for demanding owners. |
| Panasonic Lumix GH3 review |
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Panasonic's Lumix GH3 is the company's flagship mirrorless camera and the most expensive Micro Four Thirds camera to date. The GH3 builds on its predecessor's prowess in video with high bit rates, Intra-frame encoding and unlimited recording times to satisfy broadcast professionals along with both headphone and microphone jacks. The photo resolution remains 16 Megapixels, but the viewfinder and fully-articulated screen have both been improved with OLED technology and arguably most exciting of all it becomes the first Lumix G model to boast splash and dust-proof construction; this makes it the second weatherproof Micro Four Thirds camera after the Olympus EM5. In addition the Lumix GH3 features quicker AF, slightly faster continuous 6fps shooting and built-in Wifi, allowing the camera to upload images to cloud or sharing services and exploit compatible smartphones as advanced wireless remote controls. It all adds up to the most professional Micro Four Thirds camera to date and the preferred choice for video shooters, although still photographers should compare closely with the Olympus EM5.
Pros: Broadcast quality video; OLED viewfinder and touch-screen; weather-sealed; Wifi.
Cons: More expensive than Olympus EM5 and lacks its built-in stabilization.
Overall: A truly high-end mirrorless camera that competes with the big boys for video. |
| Fujifilm X-E1 review |
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Fujifilm's X-E1 is pitched as a smaller, more affordable version of the original X-Pro1, but in my view ends up being a more desirable camera for all but the most specialist photographers. First of all it shares the X-Pro1's image quality by employing the same 16 Megapixel X-Trans sensor and X-Mount for the same lenses. It also shares similar retro styling with numerous analogue controls. So far so similar, but the major cost - and space - saving is down to losing the X-Pro1's hybrid optical / electronic viewfinder and replacing it with an electronic-only viewfinder; the X-E1 also has a slightly smaller and lower resolution screen and lacks the X-Pro1's PC Sync port for studio lighting. But the X-E1's EVF is higher quality and more detailed than the X-Pro1's EVF, and it also sports a popup flash and mic / remote input that are absent on the X-Pro1. This all adds up to a camera that's more accessible than the X-Pro1 while delivering the same quality.
Pros: Superb image quality, high resolution viewfinder.
Cons: Basic movie modes. AF improved over original X-Pro1 but still not great.
Overall: Excellent choice if movies and quick AF aren't critical. |
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