The 7 Best Cameras - Summer 2024: Reviews (2024)

Body Type

Mirrorless

Sensor Size

The Canon EOS R6 Mark II is the best full-frame mirrorless camerawe've tested. This enthusiast-level model can do pretty much everything you need, whether it's high-quality stills or advanced video work. It improves upon the original Canon EOS R6 with a higher-resolution sensor, faster burst shooting, better heat management, and improved video features, including uncropped 4k recording at up to 60 fps—all thatin a highly ergonomic, weather-sealed bodywith an intuitive user interface and controls.

The only realdownside of the R6 Mark II is that Canon is still building out its RF lens lineup, so there are fewer native and third-party options to choose from, but that's slowly changing. You can also adapt older EF lenses without issue if you get an adapter. If you're looking for a camera with a more established lens ecosystem, theSony α7 IVis right up there with the Canon for image quality and versatility. However, it has a slower max burst rate when shooting uncompressed RAW files, and it only shoots 4k 60 fps video in crop mode. You can't go wrong with either of these cameras, but we prefer the Canon for those reasons.

Body Type

Mirrorless

Sensor Size

If you'd like a more capable videography and filmmaking camera, the Panasonic LUMIX S5 II is an excellent full-frame option with some seriously impressive video specs. Theseincludea wide array of recording formats and resolutions, with oversampled 4k recording at up to 60 fps and open gate 6k recording at up to 30 fps. It also supports V-Log recording and internal 10-bit 4:2:2 color—all at a remarkably competitive price for what you get. Unlike the original Panasonic LUMIX S5, the S5 II also has phase-detection autofocus, making it that much better for those who prefer AF to manually pulling focus.

If you need even more advanced features, like external RAW video output and Apple ProRes support, you can opt for the Panasonic LUMIX S5 IIX variant. Alternatively, the Fujifilm X-H2S is a video powerhouse with internal ProRes codecs, external RAW video output, anda stacked sensor that keeps rolling shutter distortion to a minimum. However, it's significantly pricier than the LUMIX S5 II.

Body Type

Mirrorless

Sensor Size

If you prefer the portability of an APS-C sensor, the Fujifilm X-T5 is one of the best crop sensor cameras we've tested. Its dedicated exposure dials evoke the feel and handling of classic SLR cameras and make it easy to adjust settings on the go, which is great for street photography. The camera's also weather-sealed, with in-body image stabilization to help you shoot more stable handheld shots at slower shutter speeds and a versatile three-way tilting screen.

However, this camera's real selling point is its 40.2-megapixelsensor—the highest resolution APS-C sensor on the market—which captures incredibly detailed images with plenty of leeway to crop and edit. Film simulation profiles also make it easy to change the look of your images in-camera, and this model boasts some impressive video specs, to boot. Overall, this is an excellent choice if you're looking for something cheaper and more portable than the Canon EOS R6 Mark II. Pros and hybrid shooters should also consider the Fujifilm X-H2, which uses the exact same sensor but adds a CFexpress card slot, 8k video capability, and internal ProRes codecs. However, it'spricier and bulkier.

Body Type

Mirrorless

Sensor Size

The Sonyα6700 is one of the best all-around mid-range cameras. This hybrid model is part of Sony's E-mount ecosystem, which includes a wide range of native and third-party lens options. The camera's relatively portable body makes it easy to take wherever you go, and its built-in stabilization makes it a good option for video work and handheld shooting. Plus, it has one of the best autofocus systems on the market, great for fast subjects like wildlife and sports,and it'sone of the few cameras in its class that can capture 4k video at 120 fps.

The Fujifilm X-S20 is another great option at this price point. It has a few features thatthe Sony lacks, like 6.2k recording and external RAW video output, but its AF system isn't quite as reliable, and 4k recording maxes out at 60 fps. Ergonomically, some people may prefer its centered viewfinder over the offsetEVF on theα6700, but that comes down to personal preference.

Body Type

Mirrorless

Sensor Size

The Canon EOS R10 is one of the best entry-level cameras we've tested, offering a ton of value for its price. Though it lacks some of the high-end features found ontheSonyα6700, like in-body image stabilization (IBIS) and weather-sealing, it's a very well-rounded camera. Its APS-C sensor captures excellent image quality for its class, and the camera has a highly effective autofocus system and quick burst shooting. All that, plus a highly accessible user interface and controls, make it one of thebest mirrorless cameras for beginners.

Though its video features are somewhat limited, with heavily cropped 4k 60 fps recording and significant rolling shutter distortion, it still offers a wide range of frame rate options and can even record10-bit 4:2:2 video internally in its HDR PQ mode. Overall, it's a bit more accessible than thesimilarly priced Fujifilm X-S10. However, if you need IBIS, the X-S10 is a great alternative that still holds its own andhas the added benefit ofa more established lens lineup to choose from. However, its autofocus is much less reliable than that of the R10.

Body Type

Mirrorless

Sensor Size

If you're on a tighter budget, the Canon EOS R50 is the best budget mirrorless camera you can buy brand new. As Canon's most affordable camera, this small but mighty APS-C option is a great choice for beginners thanks to its highly intuitive controls and a comprehensive auto mode that canhelp you get a feel for the basics of photography. And since it's part of the same RF mount system as high-end full-frameCanons like the Canon EOS R6 Mark II, there's an easy upgrade path if you eventually want to move up to a full-frame body.

With 4k video recording at up to 30 fps, it's a solid vlogging cam, too. If, however, you're looking for an even more compact system with more lens options, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a great alternative and even includes IBIS for steadier handheld shooting. Just be aware that its autofocus system is much less reliable than the autofocus on the R50.

Body Type

Mirrorless

Sensor Size

"Cheap cameras" is almost an oxymoron. It's hard to come by a good camera for truly cheapunless you start looking at used models, which is a valid optionfor those on a tight budget. Still, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 / EOS 2000D is one of the best cheap and budget camerasyou can still buy brand new. This no-frills DSLR is as basic as interchangeable-lens cameras come, but it has a high-resolution sensor and a well-established lens ecosystem with a wide range of lens options to suitdifferent budgets and styles of photography.

While you can't record 4k video and don't even get a tilting screen, the camera feels good in the hand and has a long battery life, allowing you to get out and practice shooting day after day. Its autofocus is much more rudimentary than mirrorless models like the Canon EOS R50, but it's serviceable for anyone who's just getting started. Ultimately, this is a great place to start if you're on a very tight budget and looking for your first camera.