The best camera for photography 2024: top picks for every budget (2024)

Here’s something we’ve learned from hundreds of camera reviews: when it comes to choosing the best camera for photography, there’s no one right answer for everyone. Sure, we can recommend our favorite stills camera. But the best choice for you will depend on what and how you like to shoot. That’s why our list below covers everything from the best travel cameras to top options for sports photography.

If we had to pick the camera most likely to work for everyone, it would be the Sony A7 IV. Based on many hours of in-depth testing, we’ve found it to be a well-rounded full-frame camera with impressive autofocus performance and excellent image quality. But we know it won’t be perfect for everyone. If you’re new to photography, for example, we think you’d be much better off with something like the Canon EOS R10, which is our favorite camera for beginners.

We suggest reading all of our expert guide to get a full picture of the cameras available in 2024. Every entry below offers a summary of our testing feedback, based on extensive real-world reviews. Our experienced team checks everything from handling and build quality to autofocus and image quality –all to form a picture of what and who each camera model is good for. We’re honest about the best bits and drawbacks, to make your decision easier.

Written by

Written by

Timothy Coleman

Tim is TechRadar's Cameras editor, with over 15 years in the photo video industry and most of those in the world of tech journalism, Tim has developed a deeply technical knowledge and practical experience with all things camera related. He notes, "there are so many excellent cameras out there for photographers. In compiling this guide, we've included specific options that suit different types of photography. There's often value to be found in choosing one specific to your genre of choice – particularly if that means you don't need a hybrid."

The quick list

The summary below will give you a quick overview of the best cameras for photography right now. When you find one that fits your requirements, follow the links beneath each entry for an in-depth summary of our feedback.

The best camera for photography 2024

Below you'll find full write-ups for each of the best cameras in our list. We've tested each one extensively, so you can be sure that our recommendations can be trusted.

The best full-frame hybrid overall

Sony A7 IV sample images

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Following the fantastic A7 III was never going to be easy, but the A7 IV is a worthy successor. With a new 33MP sensor that’s solid for both stills and video, it’s a compelling mirrorless option for hybrid shooters. In our review, we called it a "brilliant blend of photographic power and video versatility". A price hike does mean it’s no longer an entry-level full-frame camera like its forebear, but a Bionz XR processor powers solid performance that broadly justifies the extra expenditure.

The A7 IV also benefits from Sony’s class-leading autofocus skills, plus upgrades like 10-bit video and an almost endless buffer depth with a CFexpress card. Our tests found this buffer to be more generous than most photographers will need, with image quality leaning more towards resolution than low-light performance.There are compromises elsewhere, as well: there's a heavy crop on 4K footage and it isn't the simplest camera for beginners to use. The Canon EOS R6 also offers faster burst speeds for a similar price. But considering its powerful versatility and higher resolution, the Sony A7 IV deservedly takes our number one spot.

Read our in-depth Sony A7 IV review

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The best pro camera for stills

Sony A7R V sample images

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The Sony A7R V takes up the mantle from theA7R IVas Sony’s sharpest full-frame mirrorless camera. As we found in our review, it also solves several of the A7R IV’s drawbacks to become a more complete professional camera. A new 61MP sensor and Bionz XR processor team up to deliver remarkably detailed stills. Eight stops of image stabilization made it easy to shoot handheld in testing, too. We were also impressed by the effectiveness of Real-rime Recognition AF. It’s not perfect, but it can generally detect a range of subjects and capture them crisply.

From our time with the A7R V, we think its level of detail makes it best suited to landscape and studio work. Do keep in mind that it only produces its best results when paired with top-spec lenses, which will add heavily to the already high price tag. The A7R IV offers the same resolution, but we do think the A7R V is the better camera overall, particularly with a sharper EVF that makes framing a joy. That said, if you don’t need so many sensor pixels, you’ll find better value for less elsewhere.

Read our in-depth Sony A7R V review

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The best mirrorless camera for beginners

Canon EOS R10 sample images

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It isn't the cheapest option for beginners, but we think the Canon EOS R10 is the best camera for those starting their photographic journey. Spiritual successor to Canon's popular mid-range DSLRs, the EOS R10 has two standout skills: impressive subject-tracking autofocus and speedy 15fps burst shooting, which was previously unheard of at this price. Both combine nicely to make the EOS R10 a versatile little camera for shooting all kinds of subjects, from portraits to speeding pets. During our autofocus testing, which we conducted on cats, deer and a rapid co*ckapoodle, the R10 found and tracked subjects' eyes very well, with 15fps burst speeds producing a decent hit rate.

While it isn't a compact camera, the EOS R10 is lightweight at 429g and has a deep grip that makes it well-balanced in the hand with all kinds of lenses. Unfortunately, the EOS R10 doesn't yet have many native lenses (just two at the time of writing) and lacks in-body image stabilization. But if you're happy to buy some of the many full-frame RF lenses that work well with the camera, or adapt old ones using an EF-EOS R adapter, then it's a versatile sidekick that's ideal for fledgling snappers.

Read our in-depth Canon EOS R10 review

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The best APS-C camera for enthusiasts

Canon EOS R7 sample images

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If you don’t need full-frame, we think there’s no crop sensor camera that can currently beat the Canon EOS R7. In our review, we highlighted its superb autofocus performance, excellent in-body image stabilization and the class-leading detail delivered by its 32.5MP sensor.Its full-frame cousins still have the edge in low light, but the EOS R7 produced lovely images across a range of scenarios in our real-world tests. We were also impressed by its 30fps burst speeds, which make it a great choice for sports and wildlife enthusiasts.

Our tests also found the EOS R7 a nice camera to hold and use, with a decent grip and generous spread of direct-access controls. Dual UHS-II card slots are a welcome bonus, while the ability to record uncropped 4K/60p video output makes the EOS R7 a tidy all-rounder. The only major drawback at present is the continued lack of native lenses, an issue not suffered by alternative APS-C cameras such as the Sony A6700 and Fujifilm X-T5.

Read our in-depth Canon EOS R7 review

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The best Micro Four Thirds camera for enthusiasts

OM System OM-1 II sample images

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Not everyone needs a full-frame camera and OM System has carved out a micro four thirds (MFT) niche especially for those that want a high-performing, rugged and lightweight system, especially outdoors photographers. The OM System OM-1 II is a flagship MFT model and compelling alternative for photographers who prioritize size, versatility and a fun handheld experience. Thanks to its stacked Micro Four Thirds sensor inherited from the OM-1, and a speedy TruePix X processor, the OM-1 performed superbly in most of our tests, especially wildlife photography. It has a swathe of subject detection modes, for example you'd struggle to find a more capable autofocus system for bird photography.

There's also unique computational photography modes that are the best you'll find outside a smartphone, with the likes of High Res Shot, Live ND and in-camera Focus Stacking going some way to compensating for its smaller sensor.OM System also added Live Grad ND – a graduated filter perfect for landscape photography.

It's not all good news, though. This second-gen model is but a mere refresh of the now cheaper OM-1, we think it's updates could have been added to the OM-1 by a firmware update rather than making a new, pricier model. The MFT sensor and 20MP resolution are modest for a camera at this price, with low light image quality not quite up to the level of full-frame rivals. If you can overlook those drawbacks, then the OM-1 II (and its huge range of Micro Four Thirds lenses) will make a fine companion.Quite simply, it's the one of the most enjoyable cameras you can buy.

Read our in-depth OM System OM-1 II review

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The best premium compact

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If you want the best compact camera for photography, we think that the Fujifilm X100VI is the best choice for most people. Wait times to get delivery are significantly reduced after it's unprecedented pre-order numbers – influenced by its out-of-stock and viral predecessor, the Fujifilm X100V. The latest model is near identical to the eye, with its retro style, fixed 23mm f/2 lens and pocket-friendly design, while its hybrid viewfinder remains and we absolutely love it – you have to give it a spin.

It's the inside where the big improvements have been made: the X100VI boosts resolution to 40MP, plus it adds in-body image stabilization for the first time in the X100 series – arguably the most needed feature for this street photography camera. You also get Fujifilm's best autofocus, boprrowed from the Fujifilm X-T5.

You might not need the increased pixel count because the X100V's 26MP is plenty enough for most people. However, the extra resolution offers greater flexibility for cropping into your pictures. The X100VI is also a more capable filmmaking tool, armed with 6.2K 10-bit video. It's not a perfect camera: we think Fujifilm should have implemented a new 28mm lens, while there's only one UHS-I SD card slot and you still need an adaptor for full weather-proofing. It's also a pricier camera than the X100V. However, we think the X100VI is Fujifilm's most compelling cmaera and the best premium compact for everyday use.

Read our in-depth Fujifilm X100VI review

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The best value camera for photography

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV sample images

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It isn’t the latest Micro Four Thirds model on the market, but if you want a travel-friendly option for shooting impressive stills, we think the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV represents fantastic value. The result of careful refinement over several generations, the Mark IV offers a generous feature set and works with hundreds of affordable lenses. In our review, we noted that its 20MP sensor enables to the Mark IV to capture greater dynamic range than smartphones and compact cameras.

We were also very impressed in testing with its five-axis in-body image stabilization, which gives it the edge over rivals like the Fujifilm X-T200 when shooting handheld. Its button layout makes it an approachable camera for beginners, as does the 3-inch touchscreen. Video limitations –such as the lack of microphone input and 4K/30p cap –do hold it back from competing with hybrids. All the same, the E-M10 Mark IV remains an appealingly portable, affordable photography upgrade.

Read our in-depth Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV review

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The best DSLR for beginners

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This list is dominated by mirrorless cameras, but if you still prefer the benefits of DSLRS –namely, their handling, superior battery lives and value –then we think the Nikon D3500 is the best one around for beginners. Taking the baton from the hugely successful Nikon D3400, it brings a 24MP APS-C sensor and an incredible 1,550-shot battery life that beats the stamina of most mirrorless cameras by about three times.

The useful Guide mode is there to walk beginners through creating effects like a blurred background, while the Nikon DX system has a vast array of lenses. If you're starting out, we'd recommend buying the D3500 with the AF-P DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens, as its brings handy vibration reduction for very little extra cost. Those looking for a travel-friendly camera should still consider mirrorless alternatives like the Fujifilm X-T200 and Canon EOS M50 Mark II, but otherwise this remains a brilliant way to learn the photographic basics and start your new hobby.

Read our in-depth Nikon D3500 review

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The best instant camera

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When it comes to photo quality, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 can’t compete with present company. But if you want an instant camera that’s affordable, easy to use and fun to shoot with, we think the Mini 12 is a winner. Building on everything we loved about the Instax Mini 11, it makes it simple for beginners to create small but vibrant printed snaps.

The Mini 12 benefits from parallax correction, which we found a useful addition: it means what you see when framing is closer to what gets printed. Fujifilm has also repositioned the exposure sensor to get more accurate readings, although we found that the Mini 12 still overexposes in bright sunlight. We also found its design a little slippery to handle, but the lens controls are even more intuitive than before: you turn on the Mini 12 by twisting its lens, or activate the close-up mode by pulling it. This straightforward setup makes it even more appealing for parties and kids, especially when you factor in the affordable cost of film refills.

Read our in-depth Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 review

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The best pro hybrid for sports and wildlife

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Blazingly quick, the Nikon Z9 is a fantastic choice for discerning photographers who need a camera that can keep up with the most intensive sports and wildlife action. As the first pro-grade camera without a mechanical shutter, it was a groundbreaking model at launch. Subsequent firmware releases have only made it better. Alongside reliable Eye AF tracking, the Z9 is capable of capturing crisp video at 8K/60p or 4K/120fps. Our tests confirmed that stills are similarly fantastic, with the 45.7MP stacked CMOS sensor and excellent image stabilization combining to produce beautiful images.

Besides the price, the major drawback is the Z9's form factor. In our review, we found it a big, heavyweight beast. A two-way tilting touchscreen does add welcome versatility alongside the vertical grip, and weather-sealing complements Nikon's trademark build quality. But there are smaller, more affordable options out there if you don't need all of its flagship features. Nikon’s own Z7 II for example offers the same level of detail for stills in a tidier package.

Read our in-depth Nikon Z9 review

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The best camera for outright image quality

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If money is no object and you want the very best image quality, then the Hasselblad X2D 100C is our top pick. It’s very much a camera for photography purists – in fact it doesn’t shoot video at all – but it’s far from being outdated. We love its refreshing simplistic design and ergonomics that lets you focus on taking pictures. We also appreciated the convenience of its built-in 1TB of SSD storage. And then there’s its 100MP medium format sensor that produces images packed with detail and unmatched color rendition, while its in-body image stabilization – a first for Hasselblad – eliminates the need for a tripod, which was previously unthinkable for a medium format camera.

That’s not to say it doesn’t occupy a narrow niche: burst shooting tops out at 3.3fps, and even with speed enhancements, its autofocus still lags far behind the latest mirrorless models. Its native lens range is also lacking a proper telephoto option. Yet despite these drawbacks, the X2D is right up there with our favorite medium format cameras, and one to get with that winning lottery ticket.

Read our in-depth Hasselblad X2D 100C review

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The best professional DSLR camera

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For professionals who prefer the feel of a DSLR, we think the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is the best option available today. There’s no escaping that it represents a significant investment, but our review found that the Mark IV does plenty to justify the outlay for serious shooters. Predictably, its 30.4MP full-frame sensor turns out fantastic amounts of detail. Our tests revealed improved dynamic range and high ISO performance compared to the 5D Mark III. We were also impressed by the reliability of the metering system, while AF tracking performed reliably well, even with a bias towards the center of the frame.

Though at times we wished for a vari-angle display, the touchscreen interface is still a welcome addition, and a neat complement to the large viewfinder. All this in a package that feels well put together and wonderfully familiar. Provided video isn’t high on your agenda – there’s a heavy 1.64x crop on 4K footage – we think the EOS 5D Mark IV is a fantastically well-rounded and versatile DSLR for photography.

Read our in-depth Canon EOS 5D Mark IV review

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How to choose the best camera for you

The main thing to look at when buying a digital camera is sensor size. Larger isn't always better, but it is a good guide to what kind of camera it is, how expensive the lenses will be, and who it's aimed at. In general, Micro Four Thirds and APS-C cameras are for both hobbyists and pros, while full-frame models tend to be strictly for advanced photographers with bigger budgets. Compact cameras with 1-inch sensors are for travel zooms and everyday photography.

Other features to look out for are viewfinders (electronic or optical), which are considered essential by most photographers, and handling. If you're likely to want to use longer lenses, then a good grip is essential. You should also consider which lenses you're likely to need for your favorite types of photography – for example, bright prime lenses are better for portraits and street shooting, while wide-angle zooms are more useful for landscapes. Deciding which camera system, including lenses, is the best for you is often better than choosing a camera in isolation.

How we test cameras

The best cameras for photography don't going to come cheap these days, and so it's important to read up on real-world tests such as TechRadar's which are the most revealing way to understand a camera's performance and character, so we focus heavily on those, along with standardized tests for factors like ISO performance.

To start with, we look at the camera's design, handling and controls to get a sense of what kind of photographer it's aimed at and who would most enjoy shooting with it. When we take it out on a shoot, we'll use it both handheld and on a tripod to get a sense of where its strengths lie, and test its startup speed.

Regarding performance, we use the fastest supported memory card type (whether that's UHS-I, UHS-II, CFexpress and so on) and make sure it's formatted, then shoot photos in both raw and JPEG (if available). We have standardized camera settings to test burst shooting (1/250 sec, ISO 200, continuous AF) – we then select the various burst shooting modes and shoot sequences in front of a stopwatch to record how long sequences last, the number of frame and how quickly the buffers clears, repeating the test for both raw and JPEG files.

In various lighting conditions, we also test the camera's different autofocus modes (including Face and Eye AF) in single point, area and continuous modes. We also shoot a range of photos of different styles (portrait, landscape, low light, macro/close-up) in raw and JPEG to get a sense of metering and its sensor's ability to handle noise and resolve fine detail.

If the camera's raw files are supported by Adobe Camera Raw, we'll also process some test images to see how we can push areas like shadow recovery. And we'll also test its ISO performance across the whole range to get a sense of the levels we'd be happy to push the camera to.

Battery life is another important consideration. We start our test with a fully charged battery and run our usual camera testing until the battery has reached zero. We then count how many shots were possible and check that number against the camera's official CIPA rating – the results can differ for better or for worse. Finally, we test the camera's video skills by shooting some test footage at different frame-rates and resolutions, along with its companion app.

We then take everything we've learned about the camera and factor in its price to get a sense of the value-for-money it offers, before reaching our final verdict.

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