There is a lot of confusion about what the best Sony full-frame mirrorless camera is. In this article, I will explain how it works, its advantages and disadvantages, and what I think about some of the most popular cameras on the market today.

Sony’s new full frame mirrorless camera is the Sony a7 III – and it’s their best yet. The Sony a7 line of cameras has been my pick of the crop in terms of mirrorless cameras and this new addition doesn’t disappoint. You can check out my full review here:

There’s been a lot of debate in the past few years over which brand of mirrorless camera is best and everyone has an opinion. I’ve done my fair share of research on the subject and I’m here to tell you the truth.

Sony’s latest full frame mirrorless camera is the A7M3. It is Sony’s latest flagship. It comes with a new sensor and a touch screen. You can buy it at Amazon on a photo gear gift card.

Best mirrorless camera for beginners

It goes without saying that cameras are one of the most important pieces of equipment for any photographer. I’ve had a chance to use both a Canon, and Sony full-frame mirrorless cameras and there are quite a few differences between the two. Finding the right camera for you can be extremely difficult when you have so many things to consider.

The best mirrorless cameras are the ones that do not compromise on the performance yet deliver exceptional image quality. This is a fact that most of the customers overlook. They lose focus on a secondary detail like resolution and think about battery life, compact size and other specialised features. These are good details but the main deciding factor should be about performance. Which camera will perform just as well as SLR’s and DSLRs.

There’s never been a better time to make the jump to a full-frame digital camera. Over the past few years, models with 24-by-36mm image sensors—the same dimensions as a frame of 35mm film—have become more and more affordable. And while the smaller APS-C sensor format is still the de facto standard for entry-level SLRs and mirrorless cameras, you don’t have to move too far north of $1,000 to go full-frame.

Best Sony full-frame mirrorless camera

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There are real advantages to the format, which features a sensor with roughly twice the surface area of APS-C models. It gives photographers more control over depth of field, generally better images in difficult light, and access to higher-resolution capture than you’ll find in cameras with smaller sensors.

Mirrorless, SLR, or Something Else?

Choosing the right full-frame model for you isn’t the easiest prospect. You’ll need to decide if you want to go with an SLR or mirrorless model—or to buck expectations and opt for a rangefinder or fixed-lens camera instead.https://imasdk.googleapis.com/js/core/bridge3.501.0_en.html#goog_1067891860 seconds of 0 secondsVolume 0%00:1304:15 

Mirrorless systems have overtaken SLRs in performance. You’ll enjoy wider autofocus coverage, faster burst rates, and much better video than with a traditional optical viewfinder model. If you’re not ready to move on, you can still get an excellent SLR from Canon, Nikon, or Pentax.Tweet Share

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If you’re thinking about moving to mirrorless, you can look to an adapter to take your existing lenses. Canon and Nikon both offer adapters for their respective systems, and other accessories, like flashes, can be used without the need for adapters.

Sony a7 III (Photo: Zlata Ivleva)

The advantages of mirrorless systems are palpable. There are fewer moving parts, and engineers are able to put the autofocus system directly on the sensor, so there’s never a need to make focus calibration adjustments, and focus points can extend all the way to the edge of the frame. And, while there’s certainly an adjustment period needed for photographers used to optical viewfinders, the fact that an EVF is able to show you a preview of what a photo will look like with current exposure settings makes it easier for photographers to get the exposure where they want it.

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• Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera Bundle — $599.00
• Sony Alpha 7R IV Full Frame Mirrorless Camera Body — $3,498.00

Video is the other arena in which mirrorless cameras outpace most competing SLRs. Putting focus on the sensor means that cameras are able to keep up with moving subjects when recording movies, and several models from Canon, Nikon and Sony offer in-body image stabilization (IBIS), which does a very good job steadying handheld video.

Nikon Z 7 II (Photo: Jim Fisher)

There are still plenty of great photos made with SLRs, and while they might not offer as many advanced features as upstart mirrorless rivals, they still have their place. Professionals with years of muscle memory may find that familiar ergonomics trump technical advantages. Others may find that they prefer an old-school, optical viewfinder.

And there’s the road less traveled. There are cameras with full-frame sensors, like the Leica M10-R rangefinder series, which is a purely manual focus camera with an optical viewfinder and absolutely no video support.

There are even a few cameras out there with 24-by-36mm sensors and permanently attached lenses. The Leica Q2 and Q2 Monochrom, and the Sony RX1R II represent the current crop.

System Options

Fixed-lens outliers aside, most photographers buying into full-frame will go with an interchangeable lens camera. And before you settle in on a particular camera, you should make sure it’s part of a system that will meet all of the challenges you face as a photographer.

Canon EOS R3 (Photo: Jim Fisher)

Canon has two full-frame systems available. Its well-established SLR series uses the EF lens mount and offers cameras ranging from entry-level to professional. In 2018 it added the EOS R mirrorless family, which uses the RF mount, but can also use EF lenses via an inexpensive adapter.

Panasonic Lumix S5 (Photo: Jim Fisher)

In addition to its iconic M rangefinder series, Leica launched its own mirrorless system, with autofocus, in 2015 with the SL camera. It lived in its niche for a few years, but that changed at the 2018 Photokina conference. Leica announced that Panasonic and Sigma were joining it to form the L-Mount Alliance. Panasonic has released five models so far, and Sigma is shipping its compact fp and fp L, two of the smallest full-frame cameras.

Like Canon, Nikon has two full-frame systems. You can opt for an SLR, which uses the F-mount, and the mirrorless Z-mount system, launched in 2018.

Nikon Z 5 (Photo: Jim Fisher)

Nikon has continued to support its SLR system with new full-frame releases, including 2020’s D780, pleasing optical viewfinder devotees. Most of its newer cameras use the mirrorless Z mount. Current full-frame models include the entry-level Z 5, midrange Z 6 II, and high-resolution Z 7 II.

Pentax K-1 (Photo: Paul Maljak)

Pentax is an iconic SLR brand, but doesn’t give owners much choice when it comes to full-frame cameras. It’s released two—the K-1 and K-1 Mark II—and the Mark II’s upgrades are minimal. Both are built around a 36MP sensor, include weather protection, and offer in-body stabilization.

Sony technically has two systems, but its A-mount SLR series is no longer in production. You may still be able to find a99 II second-hand, but it’s a camera that only makes sense for photographers with a stash of Minolta and Sony A-mount SLR lenses. If you’re in that boat and ready to move on to mirrorless, the Sony LA-EA5 adapter is there to bring your favorite SLR lenses to a mirrorless camera.

Sony a9 (Photo: Zlata Ivleva)

The Sony E mirrorless system is one of the most popular, and fully developed, in the mirrorless segment. After nearly a decade on the market, the company has delivered models tuned for high-speed action, high-resolution capture, and for video. There are loads of lenses available, both first- and third-party, and Sony continues to sell older models with reduced pricing, broadening the appeal for entry-level buyers.

If you’re still not sure what system is right for you, we cover all the options, including those with smaller than full-frame sensors, here.

Get the Right Camera

It’s easy to buy a full-frame camera—you just need a credit card. It’s getting the right one that can be tricky. Once you’ve settled in on the right system, make sure the model you choose meets your needs. Photographers interested in action should look for one with great autofocus and a fast burst rate, while fine art and landscape specialists will seek out high resolution and extreme dynamic range.

You can take a look at our latest reviews to see what’s just come to market. We also have some tips for enthusiasts who want to get more out of their camera, and guides with instructions on getting great shots of fireworks and lightning.  

The Best Full-Frame Mirrorless Cameras Available Today

• Features /
• The Best Full-Frame Mirrorless Cameras Available Today

With small camera bodies but no loss of image quality, full-frame mirrorless cameras are incredibly popular for professionals and advanced photographers, so we thought it was about time we counted down our top favourites. 19 Nov 2021 11:00AM by ePHOTOzine |  Sony Alpha 1 in Mirrorless Cameras

Some consider the full-frame sensor to be the perfect sensor size and when it’s combined with a mirrorless camera, you get smaller camera bodies, without any reduction in image quality, all without the size of a large full-frame DSLR. Ideal for the professional and advanced photographer, looking for the best image quality possible, as well as better low-light results.

Sounds good, right? Well, we’ve put together a list of the best full-frame mirrorless cameras currently available so you can make a more informed choice when parting with your hard-earned cash. 

As several older full-frame mirrorless cameras are still available, we’ve included quite a few older models and you’ll notice there are quite a few Sony ones as they’ve actually been making full-frame mirrorless cameras since 2013. In fact, the original A7 is still available for under £1000 and that includes a lens! ADVERTISEMENT

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A picture, a moment can change the way we feel. Change how we see ourselves. Change our understanding and change the rules. Provoke and change history.

Why Is My Favourite Camera Not On The List? Feel free to make a suggestion in the comments section below if you don’t see a camera, you think, is perfect. 

Right… let’s start the list. 

Sony Alpha A7 Mark III 

Sony had the clever idea of telling everyone, that this was “the basic model” in the Sony Alpha range. The Sony A7 III is anything but basic, easily beating other full-frame DSLRs for specifications and features (at this price). 

The Sony Alpha A7 Mark III, on specifications alone, offers everything you could want from a camera, including low noise at higher ISO speeds, high-speed continuous shooting, rapid focus, and numerous focus points. 

Thankfully the camera also performs as well – with excellent image quality, thanks to reliable exposure, excellent lenses, great dynamic range and rapid focus performance. High-quality 4K video recording is just icing on the cake.

The camera body offers good handling – although the menus can seem a little long and slightly disorganised. With a compact prime lens, the camera system can be quite compact, however, most lenses, such as the excellent FE 24-105mm f/4 G lens are quite large, which makes the system fairly large. 

In terms of this camera being a “basic” model, the Sony Alpha A7 Mark III is hardly what we’d call “basic” – and quite easily makes everything else look slower, larger, heavier, less innovative, and more expensive. 

Key Features: 24mp FF BSI CMOS sensor, 5-axis in-camera image stabilisation, 10fps continuous shooting, ISO50 to ISO204800, 4K video recording, 710 shot battery life, Wi-Fi, NFC, Bluetooth built-in, Dual SD card slots.

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Nikon Z7 II 

The Nikon Z7 II updates the original 45.7mp Z7, but improves the camera’s performance with improved AF, faster continuous shooting, an improved EVF refresh rate, 4K 60p video recording, and a second memory card slot, with the camera now supporting SD UHS-II cards. You also get in-body image stabilisation that works with any Nikkor Z lens, and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.

Key Features: 45mp FF BSI CMOS sensor, 5-axis in-camera image stabilisation, 10fps continuous shooting, ISO32 to ISO102400, 4K 60p video recording, 360 shot battery life, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth built-in, CFexpress/XQD and SD UHS-II card slots.

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Nikon Z6 II 

The Nikon Z6 II updates the Z6, which is still available, but adds in some extra speed, and features, including a second card slot, so that you can now use SD cards with the camera. The continuous shooting speed has been increased to 14fps, and 4K 60fps video (cropped) will be coming with a future firmware update due in Feb 2021. Battery life is slightly improved, but still relatively short compared to some other cameras. However, we feel that the most impressive feature of the Nikon Z6 II (and the Z series) is the range of very high-quality lenses available for the camera, which results in some exceptional image quality, with fantastic levels of detail, and Nikon’s great colour reproduction.

Key Features: 24mp FF BSI CMOS sensor, 5-axis in-camera image stabilisation, 14fps continuous shooting, ISO50 to ISO204800, 4K video recording, 340 shot battery life, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth built-in, CFexpress/XQD and SD UHS-II card slots.

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Sony Alpha A7R Mark IV 

Sony continues to innovate with the latest high-resolution, high-speed, BSI CMOS sensors, and this means they’re able to offer high-resolution 61mp images, with low noise.

If you’re looking for a high-resolution full-frame camera, then the Sony Alpha A7R IV gives high-resolution 61mp images, with ease, and a high level of success. You don’t need to use a tripod (unless you want to), you don’t need to use a self-timer, or worry about shutter shock, instead, you can simply concentrate on your photography, framing, and composition, and shoot away. The camera has a reliable focus system and gives good JPEG results straight from the camera. If you pair the camera with a high-quality zoom lens or a prime lens, then you can quickly get great results. 

The camera offers improved handling, with a larger grip, and better controls, but despite some improvements, the menu system remains long-winded, and badly organised, (why isn’t there a separate video section in the menus?), so can take some time to get used to. With a MyMenu system, and customisable function screens (separate for stills and video), the camera can be customised to your preferences, so that you can try and avoid using the menu system. 

There’s still the NTSC/PAL switchover issue for video recording, and we live in hope that this will one day be resolved. Ignoring this issue, the camera gives an excellent video solution, and the use of the Z series battery is a welcome addition, improving stills and video battery life. With Sony on the 4th version of the Sony A7R camera, the A7R IV is the best yet. Should you buy it? If you need (or want) high-resolution images, and have the computer power to deal with larger, high-resolution images, then the Sony Alpha A7R Mark IV offers a very complete package, with a wide range of lenses available, right now. Something few other systems can say. 

Key Features: 61.0mp full-frame BSI CMOS sensor, without OLPF, 240.8mp multi-shot mode, 5.76mllion dot EVF, 0.78x magnification, 2.95inch tilting touch-screen, 5-axis in-body image stabilisation, ISO100 to ISO32000 (Native), extends to ISO50 and ISO102400, 4K video, 30/25fps, SLog2/3, HDR, 10fps continuous shooting, with AF/AE, upgraded dust and moisture resistance

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Panasonic Lumix S5 

The Panasonic Lumix S5 offers a compelling option in the full-frame mirrorless camera market, with obvious strengths in what’s on offer for videographers, offering better specifications and features than many of the other full-frame mirrorless cameras in this price range. There is also a planned firmware update that will further improve the video features.

For stills photography, the camera gives great results, with good focus, good colour reproduction, and good noise performance. There are enough options, settings, and shooting modes to keep the majority of photographers happy. However, sports photographers are likely going to want to look elsewhere, due to the 7fps continuous shooting speed.

The camera is easy to use, with good handling, thanks to quick access to some of the most important settings, with WB/ISO and exposure compensation buttons available just behind the shutter release button.

The 20-60mm lens is rather nice indeed and could be a great reason to invest in the L-Mount system, thanks to good image quality, compact size and weight, and relatively good price point (excellent value for money when bought as a kit!). It’s often said that the “Lens is the heart of a system” and therefore we’d definitely recommend looking at what lens(es) you want to use, and whether you can find them in the L-Mount system, or whether they’re to be found in a different system. In terms of full-frame mirrorless cameras, only Sony has a wider range of lenses currently.

Key Features: 24mp Full-Frame CMOS sensor, L-Mount Alliance, Sensor-based Image Stabilisation, 5-stops, 3inch screen, 1.84m dots, 0.74x magnification electronic viewfinder, with 2.36m dots, 7fps continuous shooting, 6K/4K Photo Modes, 96-megapixel High-Resolution multi-shot mode, 4K 4:2:0 10-bit video, 60fps, V-Log, 4K HDR video support, FullHD video up to 180fps. Dual ISO, ISO50 to ISO204800, Dual SD card slots, 1x UHS-II, 1x UHS-I, New battery – 470 shots (with LVF). Wi-Fi and, Bluetooth built-in, Weather-sealed camera body, 714g with battery and memory card

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Sony Alpha A7R Mark III

The Sony Alpha A7R Mark III delivers excellent image quality with good colour and very good noise performance. Levels of detail in images can be improved by using the Pixel shift multi-shot mode, for still subjects, although this does require further processing on your computer to produce the final image. It’s a shame that the images aren’t merged in the camera as found in other cameras with this feature. The new software, Imaging Edge, offers tethered shooting with live view, as well as image viewing, and editing.

You can also adjust further settings, including setting the JPEG quality when shooting RAW+JPEG and tethering as well as a USB3 connection are provided – both which are important for professional use, and the 10fps continuous shooting mode makes this camera much more useful for sports or other high-speed shooting requirements. Plus, with 650 shots possible, the battery gives near DSLR levels of battery life.

Without a doubt, Sony has another winner on their hands, as the Sony Alpha A7R Mark III does practically everything you could want, and does it extremely well. 

Key Features: 42mp FF BSI CMOS sensor, 5-axis in-camera image stabilisation, 10fps continuous shooting, ISO50 to ISO102400, 4K video recording, 650 shot battery life, Wi-Fi, NFC, Bluetooth built-in, Dual SD card slots.

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Nikon Z6 

You could look at the Nikon Z6 as an upgrade or replacement for the 24mp Nikon D750, however, with 12fps continuous shooting, it offers speeds nearer to the Nikon D5 (with 12fps or 14fps with mirror up), and more focus points (273 vs 51 and 153 respectively). In terms of size, it’s smaller and lighter than both of these. You also have the benefits of Mirrorless technology, such as a WYSIWYG (what you see is what you get) electronic viewfinder, an electronic shutter, and in-camera image stabilisation (a first for a Nikon ILC).

The nice thing about the Nikon Z system is the introduction of a number of compact lenses, and in addition to this, Nikon has published a lens roadmap, so that you can see if future lenses are what you’re looking for.

It’s a shame the battery life isn’t better, and there will be people who will find one memory card slot an issue. There will also be those that prefer SD cards due to the wide support for them (for example, built-in card readers in laptops), but with the purchase of an XQD card reader, this is quite easily resolved.

Focus performance is very good, with a high success rate, thanks to on-sensor phase-detection focus points, and a firmware update added eye-detection focus.

With the choice of a 24mp Z6 or a high-resolution 45mp Z7, Nikon is offering a very good line-up of cameras, with the Z6 offering very good value for money, particularly when you consider that the camera offers 12fps continuous shooting, beating the full-frame competition at this price point. We expect Nikon to have great success with the Z series, and as new lenses (and camera bodies) are introduced the appeal of the system will grow. 

Key Features: 24mp FF BSI CMOS sensor, 5-axis in-camera image stabilisation, 12fps continuous shooting, ISO50 to ISO204800, 4K video recording, 310 shot battery life, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth built-in, Single XQD card slot.

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Sony Alpha 1

The Sony Alpha A1 offers a hell of a lot. Video users will be extremely happy with 8K 30fps / 4K 120fps footage, and this will be overkill for the average videographer. High-speed stills photographers will be impressed by the 30fps on offer, and even those looking for high-resolution shots will be impressed by the 50mp on offer.

However, the price seems to be at a real premium over the competition, putting the camera easily into Leica territory. For the professional photographer, the camera should be able to pay for itself over the years.

Many of the previous complaints made against Sony cameras, to do with handling, have been resolved with the A7S III and Alpha 1. If you want the best and have the money, then, without a doubt, the Sony Alpha 1 is the best all-round digital camera currently available.

Key Features: 50.1-megapixel full-frame stacked BSI CMOS sensor, In-body Image Stabilisation (IBIS), 5-axis, up to 5.5stops, 3.0inch TFT tilting touch-screen, 0.64type electronic viewfinder (EVF), 9.4m dots, 0.90x magnification, 759-point phase detection AF points, 425 contrast detection, 92% coverage, Face and eye detection, with new real-time eye-AF bird mode, 30fps continuous shooting with AF/AE (electronic shutter), 10fps continuous shooting with mechanical shutter, ISO50 to ISO102400 (extended), 8K video with 30/25fps, 4K video at 120/100fps, 430 / 530 shot battery life (EVF/LCD), Dual SD (UHS-I/II) / CFexpress Type A card slots, Built-in Wi-Fi supports 2×2 MIMO.

Sony Alpha A9 

The 24 megapixel Sony Alpha A9 is a brilliant camera – fast, responsive and delivering superb results.

However, it looks as though Sony’s intention is to take on the fast shooting that previously had been the sole purview of the DSLR. The “big guns” from Canon and Nikon are more expensive, much bulkier and definitely much heavier. 

Looking at what the A9 can do, it is likely that the DSLR, with its mechanical constraints, can never surpass what might be possible with a mirrorless camera. The only issue with the Sony A9 is the price. 

Overall, the Sony Alpha A9 is a fast and responsive camera, with some cool features and delivers superb results.

NOTE: The Sony Alpha A9 II is now available, however, you’ve got to be heavily invested in the system to decide the Sony Alpha A9 II is the camera for you. If you already own the Sony Alpha A9, then it’s unlikely there’s enough on the A9 II to justify the upgrade, unless you specifically need some of the new updates on offer. However, if you had the A9 and then had to replace it, then it would make sense to go for the A9 II instead of the A9.

Key Features: 24mp FF BSI CMOS sensor, 5-axis in-camera image stabilisation, 20fps continuous shooting, ISO50 to ISO204800, 4K video recording, 650 shot battery life, Wi-Fi, NFC, Bluetooth, Ethernet socket, Dual SD card slots.

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Nikon Z7

The Nikon Z7 offers a top of the range full-frame Mirrorless camera, with the benefits of a more compact camera body (than a similar specification Nikon DSLR such as the D850), as well as benefits of Mirrorless technology, such as a WYSIWYG (what you see is what you get) electronic viewfinder. You’ll also find fast continuous shooting (9fps from the Z7 and 12fps from the Z6), an electronic shutter, and in-camera image stabilisation (a first for a Nikon ILC).

Image quality is excellent, easily matching the D850, with good noise performance, and Nikon’s tried, tested (and loved) colour reproduction.

Focus performance is very good, with a high success rate, much improved compared to a DSLR, thanks to on-sensor phase-detection focus points. Since release, the camera has benefited from firmware update(s) that have added useful features including eye-detection focus.

With a camera this good, it’s clear to see that the Nikon Z series is the future direction for Nikon’s full-frame cameras – and one we’ll be watching with close interest.

Key Features: 45.7mp FF BSI CMOS sensor, 5-axis in-camera image stabilisation, 9fps continuous shooting, ISO32 to ISO102400, 4K video recording, 330 shot battery life, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth built-in, Single XQD card slot.

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Nikon Z5

The Nikon Z5 is a very solid introduction to the Nikon Z series and the kit lens is a very solid performer as well. There is a considerable saving to be made compared to the Z6 and Z7 and thus it widens the potential market without seriously affecting the end quality. The Z range is incredibly good and the newcomer does not let it down; there is a lot to like about it, as well as a few minor niggles mentioned in the review.

Overall, a highly successful offering and one that can be enthusiastically Highly Recommended.

Key Features

• 24.3MP CMOS sensor (Nikon FX-format)
• Nikon Z full-frame lens mount
• Weather-resistant construction
• In-camera 5 axis sensor shift VR (Vibration Reduction)
• 3.2-inch tilting TFT touch-sensitive LCD 1,040,000 dot monitor
• 0.5 inch 3,690,000 dot OLED EVF with 100% frame coverage
• Focal plane shutter 30s – 1/8000s
• 4.5fps shooting with a mechanical shutter
• ISO range 100-51,200 (expands to 50-102,400)
• 273 focus points
• Supports focus stacking
• 4K UHD Movie shooting
• Movie formats H.264/MPEG-4
• Audio formats Linear PCM/AAC
• WiFi (2.4GHz and 5GHz), Bluetooth
• EN-EL 15c Li-ion battery
• Weight including battery and SD card 675g
• Accepts SD, SDHC and SDXC cards
• Supports UHS-I and II cards, 2 card slots
• Supports Snapbridge app for iOS and Android

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Sony Alpha A7S III

The Sony A7S III is Sony’s “low-light” video camera, with exceptional low-light performance, thanks to a new 12mp full-frame BSI CMOS sensor. The camera offers 4K video at up to 120fps, FullHD video at 240fps, 5-axis in-body image stabilisation (IBIS), and uses Sony’s Z battery for improved battery life. The camera also benefits from Sony’s latest menu system, and this makes the camera easier to use and change settings. There’s a 3inch vari-angle touch-screen that can be turned to face forwards, which will be great for vloggers, and for photographers, the camera has an impressive electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 9.3 million dots, and 0.90x magnification!

Key Features: 12mp FF BSI CMOS sensor, 5-axis in-camera image stabilisation, 10fps continuous shooting, ISO40 to ISO409600, 4K 120fps / FullHD 240fps video recording, 600 shot battery life, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and NFC, CFexpress Type-A / SD UHS-II support (dual slots), and real-time eye-AF.

Panasonic Lumix S1R

The Panasonic Lumix S1R has it all excellent image quality, excellent video quality, great handling, weather sealing, fast performance, and an easy to use menu system. The biggest negative, is the camera’s size and weight, being easily the same size and weight as a full-frame DSLR, but without the long battery life of a DSLR. But the camera size is very much a personal thing, and what’s too big for one person, will easily be just right for another. Perhaps the Panasonic Lumix S1R will be just right for you?

Key Features: 47mp full-frame sensor, 187mp High-Res Multi-shot mode, 4K 60fps video recording, good menu system, in-camera IS, weather-sealed, USB charging, part of the L-mount alliance 

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Canon EOS R5

The Canon EOS R5 is Canon’s flagship full-frame mirrorless camera, with class-leading video specifications, as well as impressive stills performance. For stills photography, it does not offer the highest resolution (that goes to the A7R IV) but does offer plenty of resolution. 45mp is going to be enough for 99% of the population. You can also shoot at up to 12/20fps at the full 45mp resolution. Impressive!

These things aren’t just cameras with one main aim anymore, they can do it all, high-resolution, high-speed video, high-speed continuous shooting (at 20fps with an electronic shutter). The camera is suitable for all types of photography, although perhaps sports photographers will want a camera with longer battery life, or a lower resolution sensor.

Canon’s headline feature “8K video” is the thing that got everyone “hyped” about the camera, but it’s also the Achilles heel of the camera, with the camera’s ability to record 8K video without “overheating” and then needing a cooldown period, most likely going to be one of the most frustrating things about the camera. If you buy this camera for 8K video, then you will be frustrated if you use this feature. After the dust settled, and Canon released an updated firmware, the camera is more usable, but it’s likely there will still be those that still run into video recording time limits.

For everyone else, the camera offers a great full-frame mirrorless camera, with a high-resolution sensor, excellent electronic viewfinder, rapid focus and fast continuous shooting. For stills photographers, the Canon EOS R5 would make a great upgrade from an earlier Canon, whether that’s the Canon EOS R, or the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV. However, the price does seem a little expensive, especially if you’re not interested in the 8K video features, and if you don’t need 8K, then you may want to look at the Canon EOS R6.

Key Features:

• 45mp Full-frame CMOS sensor
• Sensor-based image stabilisation (IBIS) – works with any lens
• 5.76 million dot electronic viewfinder (EVF), 0.76x magnification
• 3.2inch vari-angle touch-screen, 2.1m dots
• 12 / 20fps continuous shooting (mechanical / electronic)
• ISO100 to ISO51200, Low ISO50, High ISO102400
• 5940 autofocus points/positions
• Dual Pixel CMOS AF
• Face and Eye-AF tracking
• Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
• CFexpress and SD card slots

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Canon EOS RP

The Canon EOS RP offers a cracking price point for a new full-frame mirrorless camera, compared to the competition, with a price just over £1000, when the competition is often around the £2000+ price point. 

Image quality is excellent, with Canon’s reliable colour reproduction, and Canon’s RF lenses delivering high image quality. Care needs to be taken at times to monitor the exposure, but there are a number of ways to avoid over-exposure. You’ll also need to buy a second battery, as the battery life is disappointingly short, at just 250 shots. 

The Canon EOS RP is the cheapest full-frame camera that you can buy that is capable of recording 4K video, and results are good. There is a noticeable crop factor of 1.6x when recording 4K video, so this is definitely something to think about. 

The screen and electronic viewfinder may not be as large or as high-resolution as other mirrorless cameras on the market, but for the price, the EOS RP offers an excellent combination of features and technologies. If you are happy with the lens range available or have Canon EF lenses available to you, then the Canon EOS RP offers a great alternative to a (larger) DSLR. 

Key Features: 26.2mp full-frame CMOS sensor, 4K video, ISO12800/ISO25600, 2.36m dot OLED EVF, 0.70x magnification, 3inch touch-screen, 1.04m dots, 5fps continuous shooting speed

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Sony Alpha A7S Mark II

For the hardcore low-light video fan, the Sony A7S Mark II would be a dream camera, as long as you don’t need 4K DCI CINE (4096 × 2160) resolution video, as the A7S Mark II records as 4K UHD video at a resolution of 3840 × 2160. For the low-light photographer who relies on auto-focus the case for the A7S Mark II is less clear-cut, with the A7R Mark II offering phase detection focus on the sensor. If you need images with more than 12 megapixels, then the A7S Mark II isn’t going to satisfy you. Although, the A7S Mark II has a very wide ISO range, even if it has been surpassed by other cameras now. 

There are a number of improvements over the previous model, including improved handling and controls, additional focus points, as well as the excellent 5-axis image stabilisation system, and internal 4K video recording. However, as competitors (and Sony) have increased megapixels and began offering 4K video, the case for the A7S has become slightly less clear. For those that own the original A7S, the A7S Mark II is going to make an excellent upgrade. The range of FE lenses available has also increased, and if you can look past the 12-megapixel resolution, then the A7S Mark II is capable of producing excellent images.  

Key Features: 12mp FF CMOS sensor, 5-axis in-camera image stabilisation, 5fps continuous shooting, ISO50 to ISO409600, 4K video recording, 310 shot battery life, Wi-Fi, and NFC, Single SD card slot.

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Sony Alpha A7 Mark II

The Sony Alpha A7 Mark II might be old now but it has 5-axis image stabilisation that works with any lens used with the camera, which will be of appeal to anyone who has been using the Sony Alpha A7 series cameras with alternative lenses using an adapter.

Whether used with Sony lenses or using an adapter, the camera is set up for accurate and easy manual focus thanks to focus peaking and other display options, as well as a clear and high-resolution electronic viewfinder. 

The A7 Mark II feels comfortable in use and the finish on the weather-sealed magnesium alloy body has a design/style more similar to a Digital SLR, and the larger hand-grip will help when using the camera with larger lenses. The 24.3-megapixel full-frame sensor delivers excellent results, the tilting screen looks great and built-in Wi-Fi and NFC makes transferring images easy. 

Key Features: 24mp FF CMOS sensor, 5-axis in-camera image stabilisation, 5fps continuous shooting, ISO50 to ISO25600, FullHD video recording, 350 shot battery life, Wi-Fi, NFC built-in, Single SD card slot.

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Canon EOS R

The Canon EOS R is a great camera with a great kit lens, capable of delivering excellent image quality. There are minor operational, and design quirks that will make the camera feel awkward compared to a DSLR such as the 5D Mark IV, but for the most part, the EOS R does the job efficiently and is a pleasure to use. Professional photographers, or those used to Canon EOS DSLRs, may be disappointed by the lack of dual card slots, and the shorter battery life of this camera.

The EOS R is mostly well thought out and will fit with Canon DSLR user’s existing lenses and cameras (with an adapter). One slight snag is the lack of a lens roadmap so we don’t know when, or how long, we’ll have to wait for favourite lens choices specifically designed for the EOS R to appear but if you’re happy to use current lenses with an adapter, then this may not be an issue for you.

Key Features: 30mp FF CMOS sensor, 8fps continuous shooting, ISO50 to ISO102400, 4K video recording, 370 shot battery life, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Single SD card slot.

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Leica SL2

The Leica SL2, like most of the Leica range, isn’t a mass-produced, mass-production camera, the camera is made in Germany, and this is part of the reason why the Leica SL2 has a higher price than much of the competition. At £5,300 the price is comparable to other Leica cameras, but when you factor in lenses, the complete system could turn into quite an investment.

However, some would say that we’re reaching a point where digital cameras are “good enough” or rather so good that you shouldn’t need to upgrade for several years, so why not invest in a camera that will hopefully last the next 5 – 10 years and still be capable of producing exceptional images?

For video users, the options available, as well as a wide range of lenses could make this an appealing choice. Assuming you don’t need 6K or 8K, and also as long as you don’t mind the lack of a vari-angle screen.

The camera produces great-looking photos. The high-resolution 47mp full-frame sensor makes it suitable for a wide range of uses, including fashion, landscape, and commercial photographer, as well as portraits. For archiving or fine-art reproduction, or even just still-life work and product photography, the 187mp high-resolution mode could be of particular interest.

If still available near you, then you could look at the previous version, the Leica SL (Typ 601) – a 24-megapixel full-frame mirrorless camera with weather-sealing, 11fps continuous shooting, and 4K CINE video recording.

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Leica SL2-S 

We enjoyed shooting with the SL2-S camera, and we’re pleased with the results, with great image quality, and excellent noise performance. One thing that we did find a little frustrating when using the camera were the top and bottom bars displayed on-screen, and whilst they can be switched off, the bottom bar re-appears as you focus your shot. If you’re trying to be really careful about what is or isn’t in the frame, this can be really frustrating and seems like a real oversight. If you use the electronic viewfinder, this isn’t an issue.

The SL2-S is a great camera, with excellent results possible, however, for stills photographers, the price is going to be a hard pill to swallow compared to what’s on the market. For serious videographers, there are other options available that offer 8K video and/or 4K 120fps video for a similar price. It’s likely the fixed screen may be off-putting to some as well. The Leica SL2-S gives great results, offers high-speed shooting, and unlimited video recording, for those that have the budget to spare, it should provide many years of quality.

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Sigma fp L

The Sigma fp L, along with the Sigma fp is the world’s smallest full-frame mirrorless camera, introduces a new electronic viewfinder attachment, as well as a new 61mp BSI CMOS sensor with phase-detection AF. As well as a full-frame 61mp BSI CMOS sensor, the camera has 10fps continuous shooting and a silent electronic shutter. The camera is marketed as a hybrid model, featuring a CINE shooting mode capable of shooting 4K UHD video. There’s a touch screen which is a good size, but this doesn’t tilt. 

Key Features: 61mp Full-frame BSI CMOS sensor, L-Mount Lens Mount, 3.15inch touch-screen, 2.1m dots, ISO100 to ISO25600 (Standard), Extended ISO6 to ISO102400, 49 focus points, contrast and phase detection, Face and eye-detection focus (AF), 14-bit RAW (DNG), 10fps continuous shooting speed, 4K UHD video, CinemaDNG, Electronic Image Stabilisation (EIS), UHS-II SD Card slot, HDR, Focus bracket, Fill light bracket, Weather-sealed, dust and splashproof

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Sigma fp

The Sigma fp is currently the world’s smallest full-frame mirrorless camera (as of January 2019), and has a modular design, which allows it to remain small. You can add on to the body only what you need – handgrip, hot shoe, or base plate, for example. 

It features a 24-megapixel BSI CMOS sensor, 18fps continuous shooting, and a silent electronic shutter. The camera is marketed as a hybrid model, featuring a CINE shooting mode capable of shooting 4K UHD video. There’s a touch screen which is a good size, but this doesn’t tilt. 

Key Features: 24mp Full-frame BSI CMOS sensor, L-Mount Lens Mount, 3.15inch touch-screen, 2.1m dots, ISO100 to ISO25600 (Standard), Extended ISO6 to ISO102400, 49 focus points, contrast detection, Face and eye-detection focus (AF), 14-bit RAW (DNG), 18fps continuous shooting speed, 4K UHD video, CinemaDNG, Electronic Image Stabilisation (EIS), UHS-II SD Card slot, HDR, Focus bracket, Fill light bracket, Weather-sealed, dust and splashproof

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ZEISS ZX-1 

Speaking as a photographer, we see the things that are missing, such as Shake Reduction and Weather Resistance and we see the slow operation…Speaking as a mobile phone user we see a quality camera with built-in image adjustments, vast potential from connectivity options and something that operates from menus just like my phone. Perhaps we have a Marmite camera here, that we might love or hate…

Whatever our point of view though, the ZEISS ZX-1 remains a very slick bit of design that produces quality images, albeit it at a price. If it suits your way of working, then definitely ‘Recommended’.

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