A New Camera-Shopping Landscape

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Buying a digital camera is a very different experience than it was a few years ago. Smartphone cameras keep getting better, so there are a lot fewer buyers out there for budget pocket shooters. And because of that, there aren't that many good, inexpensive point-and-shoots. Meanwhile, entry-level SLRs have serious competition for your dollar from mirrorless rivals, and if you've got a bigger budget you can opt for premium pocket models with large image sensors, midrange interchangeable lens models, or bridge-style superzooms that bring distant subjects into close, clear view.

We've highlighted our favorite model from each of the categories we cover in the chart above, but read on if you want to know more about your options in today's market.

Pocket Friendly: Entry-Level Point-and-Shoot Cameras

It might be the best DSLR for the price, but perhaps the Nikon -either possibly or probably- isn't the best system including lenses and other factors. It seems a bit random that the runners up are both Sony non-SLRs. The top 10 best DSLR cameras for filming video. Below is our list of 10 of the best DSLR cameras that shoot at least 1080p HD video and are worth taking a look at. Remember to keep our above checklist in mind when determining which model is best for you. Let us know in the comments if you have any questions or recommendations. Happy filming.

It's no secret that smartphones have seriously hurt the demand for entry-level point-and-shoot cameras. You can buy any number of sub-$100 no-name cameras at online retailers, but none are worth your money if already own a decent smartphone. But if you move up to the $100 to $200 bracket, you have some solid options from Canon and Nikon.

These slimline shooters pack zoom lenses, which set them apart from smartphones, but for the most part use dated CCD sensor technology, which limits image quality when shooting at high ISO settings and cuts the maximum video quality to 720p. But if you're looking for a small camera to carry on vacation or nature walks, you still have a few inexpensive alternatives to a smartphone.

See How We Test Digital Cameras

Moving up to the $200 to $400 price nets more modern CMOS image sensors and very long zoom lenses—30x is the standard at this point. For the most part video is still 1080p, and you'll also see some cameras with small electronic viewfinders, Raw shooting capability, and very quick autofocus. Pure image quality is better than a smartphone, with the real advantage being the zoom lens. There are also several models that are waterproof available in this price range.

For more, check out The Best Point-and-Shoot Cameras.

What Is the Best Camera to Buy for a Beginner Photographer?

Entry-level isn't just for pocket models. Photographers who want a camera that's easy to use, and not obscenely expensive, may want to reach for a mirrorless model or SLR instead of a point-and-shoot. Our favorite models for folks more interested in making a good image and less interested in learning about f-stops include some options in our overall top ten, such as the Sony a6000, Canon T7i, and Olympus TG-5.

But there are others too. I often recommend the small Canon G9 X, a relatively inexpensive 1-inch pocket model that offers palpable benefits over a smartphone in terms of image quality, and a comfortable touch interface. The Nikon D3400, with its easy-to-use Guide Mode is one of our favorite low-cost SLRs, and the Canon EOS M100 does a lot of things right in the mirrorless world.

When shopping for a starter camera, ask yourself some questions about what you want. Take a look at the size, as a camera isn't any good if you're not going to use it. But also think about connectivity—you probably want to copy images to your smartphone easily—and price. Ease of use isn't a huge hurdle these days—everything has an auto mode—but models with guided interfaces will let you take some sort of control over how your photos turn out, without having to know too much technical jargon.

Kicking It Old School: Film

You don't have to get a digital camera to get a camera. Film is still an option, with instant models being extremely popular. Instant formats take away the hassle of getting film developed, and make it easy to share physical images with friends and family immediately after they've been captured. You can get an entry-level model for around $65, and film packs generally cost around $7.50. For a complete rundown on what instant cameras and film formats are sold today, check out our list of the Best Instant Cameras.

You can also buy a new 35mm or medium format camera. You don't have as many options for getting film developed as you used to—if you're in a major city it'll be easy to find a lab, but you may have to resort to mail order if you're not close to a metropolis. You can find old film SLRs and compacts in thrift shops and online stores pretty easily. If you're intent on buying a new model, Lomography still makes a bunch of different ones, from toy models like the Sprocket Rocket, which captures panoramic shots with exposed sprockets, to premium options like the medium format LC-A 120.

Small Camera, Big Sensor: Premium Compacts

You may scratch your head when you see pocket cameras with fixed lenses selling for anywhere from $400 to $1,000. After all, you can get an interchangeable lens model for the same price. But these slim, premium shooters target a very specific market—photographers who already own a mirrorless camera or SLR and a bunch of lenses, but want something small as an alternative option.

For a long time, the premium models sported 1/1.7-inch class sensors, which offered modest advantages over the more common 1/2.3-inch type found in entry-level cameras and premium smartphones. Sony changed that in 2013 with its revolutionary RX100, which brought the 1-inch sensor class into the spotlight.

A 1-inch sensor has roughly four times the surface area of the chips used in premium smartphones and entry-level point-and-shoots. That leads to significantly clearer images, especially at high ISO. The industry has settled on 20MP of resolution for this sensor type, which delivers an excellent balance of image quality and noise control.

With the larger sensor comes a shorter zoom. For the most part, you'll see models with short 2.9x (24-70mm) reach, or the slightly longer 4x lens (25-100mm). These lenses tend to capture a good amount of light throughout their range and the optics required to do that necessitate a large front element and short zoom range.

We're starting to see longer zooms in this category, but with narrower aperture and lenses that top out at 10x coverage (25-250mm). A narrow aperture isn't as good for low light as models with short zooms and big f-stops, but is a better choice for travel, when you want a pocket camera with an ample zoom range. The 1-inch sensor size typically nets solid image quality through ISO 3200, and even to ISO 6400 if you opt to shoot in Raw format, so use in dim light is still possible.

There are also models out there with even larger image sensors and shorter zooms or no zoom at all. You can get a small camera with an SLR-sized APS-C image sensor and a fixed focal length lens, and there are even a couple of options out there with larger full-frame sensors.

Bridge Cameras

You can opt for a fixed-lens camera that's sized and shaped a lot like an SLR—a bridge camera. These models tend to have really long lenses—up to 83x zoom power in models with the 1/2.3-inch sensor size—and sport electronic viewfinders, hot shoes, and articulating rear displays. If zoom is what you're after, a bridge camera may be your best bet, although understand that they won't handle dim light as well as an SLR.

There are also premium bridge models with larger 1-inch sensors and shorter zooms. They still have a considerable size advantage over SLRs with comparable zooms—just think about carrying an interchangeable lens camera and two or three lenses to cover a 24-200mm, 24-400mm, or 24-600mm coverage range. They tend to be more expensive than an SLR, and certainly more than bridge models with smaller sensors, but do better at higher ISO settings and sport lenses that gather more light. If you put a premium on a lightweight camera, and want the versatility that a long zoom design delivers, look at a bridge model with a 1-inch sensor. Just be prepared to pay a premium.

We've rounded up The Best Bridge Cameras for your perusal.

The Best Cameras for Travelers

Not surprisingly, I find bridge models to be just about perfect for globetrotters. They pack a wide zoom range, so you don't have to fumble with lens changes. And if you opt for a premium 1-inch model you can shoot in varying types of light. But you may want a different kind of camera to take with you on your journeys.

If you want something more pocket-friendly, a point-and-shoot can do the trick. But be prepared to get a little spendy to get something worthy of your exotic destinations. For the rough-and-tumble crowd, I recommend the Olympus TG-5 due to its bright lens and tough build. (If you're more of a video person, don't forget about GoPro.) For more leisurely vacations, reach for the Sony RX100 III or Canon G7 X Mark II and enjoy images that run circles around phones in a form factor that slides into a shirt pocket.

If you don't mind carrying something larger, a good mirrorless camera (and a couple of lenses) will fit easily into a small bag and net images and videos worthy of sharing with friends and family back home. The Sony a6000 remains our favorite affordable option, but there are alternatives like the Fujifilm X-E3 that are a bit more stylish.

For more, see our story on The Best Cameras for Travel.

Entry-Level Interchangeable Lens: SLR and Mirrorless

For a long time we've looked at mirrorless cameras and SLRs as two distinct classes. And while that distinction still has merit at the higher end of the spectrum, for entry-level photographers the lines are blurred.

We've been disappointed that features common in mirrorless models, including tilting touch-screen displays and wireless connectivity, have been very slow to make their way to SLRs. Likewise, while Canon has made significant improvements in video autofocus in its pricier SLRs, consumers are better off with a low-cost mirrorless model if they want fast, seamless autofocus when recording moving pictures.

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If you're not familiar with the term, the mirror that mirrorless cameras lack is the one that directs light to an optical viewfinder from the lens. SLRs, of course, still offer that. Getting rid of the mirror box allows for a slimmer design with fewer moving parts, as well as more accurate autofocus. And, with the latest spate of models, autofocus is fast. So fast that you won't miss shooting with an SLR.

If you're willing to live without a viewfinder of any sort and use the LCD to frame shots, you can find solid mirrorless models for under $500, including a kit lens. Like SLRs, different manufacturers support different lens formats. If you buy a Sony mirrorless camera, you'll stick with Sony E and FE lenses, and if you opt for Fujifilm you're locked into the X lens system.

The exception is the Micro Four Thirds system, which is a lens format shared by Olympus and Panasonic, and utilized by more specialized cinema cameras made by companies like Blackmagic. The MFT sensor format is a 4:3 aspect ratio, as opposed to the 3:2 ratio used by most SLRs, and slightly smaller.

Canon, Nikon, and Pentax offer entry-level SLRs with traditional optical viewfinders. Sony has continued to support the A-mount SLR system, which dates back to Minolta autofocus SLRs, but has moved to using electronic viewfinders in its Alpha SLT series. The fixed-mirror design and EVF allow the video focus system to use the same sensor as the focus for stills, which delivers autofocus on the same level as with mirrorless cameras when recording moving pictures.

Traditional SLRs struggle when it comes to video autofocus. Contrast-based methods require that the focus point move just beyond the point of crisp focus and come back to it in order to lock on, which can be distracting when refocusing to follow a moving subject. SLR makers have worked to improve this, utilizing lenses with Pulse or Stepping Motors, which are quieter and smoother during focus, but they're still not on the same level as most mirrorless cameras.

You'll get the back-and-forth effect with entry-level mirrorless models that rely entirely on contrast for focus. But it's not as noticeable as you get with SLRs, and by the time you've moved up to a midrange price point—which is actually in line with the price of entry-level SLR models—you start to see on-sensor phase detection.

We've rounded up both our favorite mirrorless cameras and SLRs.

For Serious Shutterbugs: Premium Mirrorless and SLR

Once you cross the $1,000 price barrier, you've entered into a realm where you likely have a very good handle on whether you prefer an SLR or mirrorless camera. If you're buying in this range, you need to take a serious look at the lenses and accessories available for each system, and weigh the pluses and minuses of different image sensor formats.

Mirrorless cameras have gotten better and better in terms of tracking autofocus in recent years. Top-tier models track subjects and fire off images as quickly as comparable SLRs. Depending on which system you have your eye on, and what type of shooting you do, you may find that lens selection to be perfectly adequate.

Micro Four Thirds cameras can use either Olympus or Panasonic lenses, which gives them a leg up in the pure number of lenses available, including fish-eye, ultra-wide angle, and extreme telephoto primes and zooms. Fujifilm has a strong library of lenses, including a 100-400mm zoom that can be paired with a teleconverter for even more reach. Sony cameras, which can utilize both APS-C (E) and full-frame (FE) lenses, have you covered up through 300mm, but longer telephoto options are not available at this time.

But lens options aren't as vast as they are with the Canon and Nikon SLR systems. You have a much larger selection with a Canon or Nikon, including many excellent third-party options from Sigma and Tamron. SLR lens options like the Sigma 150-600mm F5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary aren't matched by mirrorless in terms of value, and you also have access to exotic glass like the AF-S Nikkor 800mm f/5.6E FL ED VR ($16,299.95), the likes of which simply isn't available in a mirrorless format at this time.

While photographers who want to capture distant subjects and take advantage of telephoto lenses will likely love the flexibility that the APS-C and Micro Four Thirds sensor sizes deliver, there are also a number of full-frame models aimed squarely at enthusiasts. The full-frame size, called so because it matches 35mm film in physical dimension, is a solid choice for landscapes, portraiture, event coverage, and reportage. The larger sensor provides more control over depth of field when paired with wide aperture glass.

If you're in the market for an interchangeable lens camera and want to keep the budget between $1,000 and $2,500, you have a lot of options. Perhaps too many. If you're already invested in a system, it would take a much greener field to make you jump ship, and models in this price range are very close in terms of features, performance, and image quality.

If you're buying into a system, or don't have a huge investment in lenses and accessories, the first thing I'd recommend doing is identifying which lenses you'd like to have in your bag and factoring those prices into your decision. You may find that spending a bit more on a body is worth it if lenses you're going to buy are significantly less than the competition.

And then there's the capabilities of the camera itself. You may put a heavy emphasis on autofocus and burst capture rate, in which case you should target APS-C models that excel in those situations. If you're more of a landscape or portrait photographer, a full-frame camera is likely a better fit, so you can put money toward the sensor size and quality rather than the focus system.

The choice between an optical or electronic viewfinder is another one to consider. Modern EVFs are really, really good, and refresh quickly enough so you can track moving action. If you haven't used one in a few years, you'll be surprised at how far they've come. But for some photographers, there's no substitute for an optical viewfinder, in which case an SLR will be preferred to mirrorless.

Professional Options: Full-Frame and Medium Format

Pro photographers are almost always shooting Canon or Nikon SLR systems, but there are some very capable alternatives out there. There are reasons that you see most working photographers using one of the two most popular systems—they include a solid bevy of pro-grade bodies and lenses, a strong support system backing that equipment, and the comfort that years of use brings. That's not to say you can't go another way. Sony makes a pro-level SLR and a few mirrorless cameras that fit the bill.

For pro sports, you'll see bigger cameras on the sidelines. They don't pack as much resolution as SLRs used to cover weddings and events, but they fire off images at much higher burst rates—usually about 10fps with continuous tracking and exposure. Sony has an intriguing alternative out there in the mirrorless space, the a9. Lighter and less expensive than competing SLRs, it locks and fires at an incredible 20fps and records video in 4K.

Beyond full-frame, you move into the territory of medium format photography. In the film days, medium format referred to anything larger than 35mm and smaller than 4-by-5-inch. That's a pretty big gamut. With digital, you get the 33 by 44mm sensor size used by most of the mirrorless cameras that sell for less than $10,000—including Pentax's SLR bodies, and mirrorless options from Fujifilm and Hasselblad.

At the high end, you can go for a sensor that's about 54 by 40mm in size, just about matching the 645 film size. We've reviewed one of these cameras so far—the insanely expensive Phase One XF 100MP. It offers Raw image capture at 100MP resolution, which is more than overkill for the vast majority of photographers.

We've put together a list of The Best Full-Frame SLRs if you're looking for a pro camera. Once you're up and running, check out our 10 Beyond-Basic Photo Tips.

Featured in This Roundup

  • Nikon D850 Review


    MSRP: $3299.95

    Pros: Full-frame 45.7MP image sensor. 153-point autofocus system. 7fps burst shooting. Wide ISO range. 4K video. Large optical viewfinder. Tilting touch LCD. Dual card slots. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi.

    Cons: Live View focus uses contrast detection only. Omits built-in flash. SnapBridge system needs some work.

    Bottom Line: The Nikon D850 offers the best of all worlds: extreme resolution, fantastic image quality, fast shooting, and an exceptional build. It's our favorite pro SLR.

    Read Review
  • Sony a7 III Review


    MSRP: $1999.99

    Pros: 24MP full-frame BSI sensor. 10fps with tracking. 5-axis stabilization. 4K HDR video. Silent shooting available. Tilting touch LCD. Dual SD slots. Vastly improved battery. Focus joystick. Flat profiles available.

    Cons: Screen not true vari-angle. Only one card slot is UHS-II. No in-body flash. Accessory required for time-lapse. Shooting buffer must clear to start video. Dense menu system. Omits PC sync socket.

    Bottom Line: The Sony a7 III is an entry-level full-frame camera that goes well beyond the basics in features, with excellent image quality, 10fps subject tracking, and 4K video capture.

    Read Review
  • Fujifilm X-H1 Review


    MSRP: $1899.00

    Pros: Shoots at 8fps with mechanical shutter and 14fps with electronic shutter. 5-axis sensor stabilization. 24MP APS-C sensor. 200Mbps 4K video. Log video profile. Tilting rear LCD. Dual card slots. Monochrome information LCD. Weather-sealed body.

    Cons: Expensive. Not a true vari-angle LCD. No EV dial. Add-on grip required for top performance. No built-in flash. Omits headphone jack. Video recording chews through batteries.

    Bottom Line: The Fujifilm X-H1 camera adds in-body stabilization to the X series and offers loads of tools for both photographers and videographers.

    Read Review
  • Nikon D500 Review


    MSRP: $1995.95

    Pros: Solid build. Advanced, edge-to-edge autofocus system. 10fps capture with tracking focus. Large buffer for extended shooting. Superb high ISO image quality. Clean HDMI output. Excellent control layout. Tilting touch-screen LCD. Dust- and weather-resistant design. XQD and SD card slots.

    Cons: Snapbridge wireless transfer needs some work. 4K video is cropped. Omits built-in flash.

    Bottom Line: The Nikon D500 puts the company's finest autofocus system in a tough, compact SLR body that will please demanding enthusiasts and pros alike.

    Read Review
  • Sony a6400 Review


    MSRP: $899.99

    Pros: Compact build. 24MP APS-C image sensor. Quick, accurate autofocus. 11fps continuous drive. Large, sharp EVF. Selfie LCD. Built-in flash and hot shoe. 4K video without recording limit.

    Cons: Omits in-body image stabilization. Flip-up screen not ideal for vloggers. Some operational frustrations. External charger not included. Only full-frame lenses are weather sealed. UHS-I card slot.

    Bottom Line: The Sony a6400 is a camera that straddles the line between consumer and enthusiast, delivering automatic operation for family snapshots with the image quality and speed aficionados love.

    Read Review
  • Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 III Review


    MSRP: $799.99

    Pros: Excellent high ISO performance. Big 1-inch image sensor. Sharp, wide aperture lens. 10fps burst shooting. Customizable controls. Large, titling LCD. Pop-up OLED EVF. Quick focus. Raw support. Wi-Fi with NFC.

    Cons: Very expensive. Short zoom range. Lacks hot shoe. External charger not included.

    Everything you hear are researched facts, but the recreation/reenacted scenes are there for your viewing pleasure **Copyright Disclaimer Under Section 107 of the Copyright Act 1976, allowance is made for 'fair use' for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing. • หมวดหมู่ • • เพลง • • ศิลปิน • The Notorious B.I.G. Non-profit, educational or personal use tips the balance in favor of fair use.** Requested Link. Biggie smalls dead body.

    Bottom Line: The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 III compact camera earns Editors' Choice accolades because of its image quality and excellent EVF, even despite its high price.

    Read Review
  • Canon EOS Rebel T7i Review


    MSRP: $749.99

    Pros: 24MP APS-C image sensor. 45-point cross-type autofocus system. 6fps burst shooting. Dual Pixel AF in Live View. Vari-angle touch LCD. Wi-Fi.

    Cons: Video limited to 1080p. Pentamirror viewfinder.

    Bottom Line: Canon's EOS Rebel T7i DSLR offers an improved autofocus system in both standard and Live View modes, giving owners of older Rebels a compelling reason to upgrade.

    Read Review
  • Canon PowerShot SX70 HS Review


    MSRP: $549.99

    Pros: 65x zoom lens. Vari-angle LCD. Excellent EVF. 10fps bursts. Raw image capture. 4K video with mic input. Wi-Fi. Strong ergonomics.

    Cons: Not great in dim light. Omits accessory shoe and 24fps video. 4K not available in all modes. Not a good choice for fast action.

    Bottom Line: The Canon PowerShot SX70 HS captures views ranging from ultra-wide to extreme telephoto. It's a solid camera for wildlife observers, families, and shutterbugs in search of a lightweight bridge model.

    Read Review
  • Olympus Tough TG-5 Review


    MSRP: $449.99

    Pros: Tough, waterproof build. Wide aperture lens. Quick focus. Excellent macro capability. 20fps burst shooting. Raw support. 4K video capture. GPS and Wi-Fi.

    Cons: Expensive. Rear screen can pick up scratches. 460k-dot LCD. 4K footage is cropped. Omits full manual mode.

    Bottom Line: The Olympus Tough TG-5 is a go-anywhere camera with a fast lens, speedy response, and 4K video, but it's more expensive than previous iterations.

    Read Review
  • Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II Review


    MSRP: $529.99

    Pros: Crisp lens. 1-inch image sensor. 8.1fps image capture. Touch LCD. Built-in ND filter. In-camera art filters. Wi-Fi. Quite compact.

    Cons: Pricey. Short zoom. Narrow aperture when zoomed. No 60fps video option.

    Bottom Line: The Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II camera is more responsive than its predecessor, and squeezes a big 1-inch sensor into a compact frame.

    Read Review
Best

What's the best camera you can buy right now? Okay, we admit it – it's an impossible question to answer, but we'll do our best to make sure you end up buying the right camera for you.

You see, the best camera for a pro photographer is a million miles away from the best camera for an adventure sports nut. Likewise, a novice shooter just making their first steps in photography doesn't need all the most up-to-date tech that a pro might, more an easy-to-use camera that will help them to grow in confidence.

But if you just want to know what we think are the top ten cameras that are available right now – regardless of user level or price point – keep on reading.

What we've done is pick out what we think are the standout cameras in their fields, so you'll find everything here from cheap and cheerful compact cameras to advanced full-frame DSLRs.

This means that while some have some mouthwatering features and performance, others make the grade because they're amazing value for what they offer or because they are just brilliant at the job they've been designed for.

Regardless of their target audience, we've put each one and their rivals to the test to be sure they're the best options right now – and you can read our full reviews on each model through the link after each description.

Top 5 cameras

Here's our pick of the 5 best cameras - click on the links below to go through to the full review for each

1. Nikon Z6
2.Fujifilm X-T30
3.Nikon D850
4. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III
5.Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / EOS 200D

Along the way we'll explain some of the jargon and the differences between cameras, though if you need a bit more help deciding what kind of camera you need, you can get a lot more information from our special step-by-step guide: What camera should I buy?

On the other hand, you may already have a clear idea of the kind of camera you want, in which case you could go straight to one of our more specific camera buying guides at the bottom of the page. Otherwise, read on to find out our picks of the best cameras available right now.

Best cameras in 2019

1. Nikon Z6

Type: Mirrorless Sensor size: Full-frame CMOS Resolution: 24.5MP Lens: Nikon Z mount Viewfinder: EVF Screen type: 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen, 2,100,000 dots Maximum continuous shooting speed: 12fps Movies: 4K User level: Intermediate/expert

High-resolution EVF
XQD card format has limited support

Our top mirrorless camera until recently was the brilliant Alpha A7 III from Sony, but the arrival of Nikon's new Z6 means it now just misses out, though it's very close. Nikon has been late to the full-frame mirrorless party, but the wait's been worth it. Launching alongside the 45.7MP Z7, the Z6 is hard to beat for the price and offers a stunning blend of features and performance that makes its a brilliant choice for the enthusiast photographer or pro looking for a second body. The 24.5MP full-frame sensor is excellent, while the 273-point AF system (while not quite as sophisticated as the 693-point AF in the A7 III) and 12fps burst shooting should mean you'll never miss another shot. Handling is polished too, while the large and bright electronic viewfinder is a joy to use. Excellent.

  • Read our in-depthNikon Z6 review
  • Also consider:Sony Alpha A7 III
  • Buying guide: Best mirrorless camera

2. Fujifilm X-T30

Our favourite APS-C mirrorless camera right now

Sensor size: APS-C Resolution: 26.1MP Viewfinder: 2,360K dots Monitor: 3.0-inch tilt-angle touchscreen, 1,040K dots Autofocus: 425-point AF Maximum continuous shooting rate: 8fps Movies: 4K at 30p User level: Expert

Excellent images and lovely videos
One card slot

Fujifilm has made a habit of squishing the best bits from its senior X-series models into cheaper offerings once some time has passed, and the X-T30 is the latest such model. With so much from the pricier X-T3 inside a more compact body – including the same sensor and processing engine, and largely the same AF system and video capabilities – you really can't argue with what you're getting for the money. No other mirrorless camera at this level can touch it right now, and while the more senior X-T3 holds a number of advantages, the X-T30's small size, feature set and price point makes it that little bit stronger overall.

  • Read our in-depthFujifilm X-T30 hands-on review
  • Also consider:Fujifilm X-T3
  • Buying guide: Best mirrorless camera

3. Nikon D850

When you need resolution and speed, this is your best bet

Type: DSLR Sensor size: Full-frame CMOS Resolution: 45.4MP Lens: Nikon F mount Viewfinder: Optical Screen type: 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen, 2,359,000 dots Maximum continuous shooting speed: 7fps Movies: 4K User level: Intermediate/expert

Excellent performance
SnapBridge connectivity

It may be expensive, but if you're looking for the best DSLR money can buy right now, then Nikon's fabulous D850 DSLR pretty much ticks every box. Packing in a brilliant 45.4MP full-frame sensor, image quality is simply stunning. But that's just half the story. Thanks to a sophisticated 153-point AF system and 9fps burst shooting speed, the D850 is and incredibly versatile piece of kit, just a home shooting action and wildlife as it is landscapes and portraits. The arrival of the Z6 and Z7 might overshadow the D850, but this is still a brilliant camera.

  • Read our in-depthNikon D850 review
  • Buying guide:Best full-frame camera
  • Buying guide: Best DSLR

4. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III

Type: Mirrorless Sensor size: Micro Four Thirds Resolution: 16.1MP Lens: Micro Four Thirds Screen type: 3.0-inch tilting touchscreen, 1,370,000 dots Viewfinder: EVF Maximum continuous shooting rate: 8.6fps Movies: 4K User level: Beginner/enthusiast

Compact proportions
Smaller sensor than some

While the main specification of the OM-D E-M10 Mark III doesn't offer a huge upgrade from the Mark II, Olympus has refined and tweaked one of our favorite mirrorless cameras to make it an even more tempting proposition for new users and enthusiasts alike. Some will criticise the smaller Micro Four Thirds sensor format (roughly half the area of APS-C) but the effect on image quality is minor and it means that the lenses are as compact and lightweight as the camera itself. Sporting a 5-axis image stabilization system, decent electronic viewfinder, an impressive 8.6fps burst shooting speed and 4K video, it's no toy – the E-M10 Mark III is a properly powerful camera. If you can wait a little be longer, then Fujifilm's X-T30 looks like it might be the camera to dislodge the E-M10 Mark III. However, we won't know until we've fully tested it.

  • Read our in-depthOlympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III review
  • Also consider: Fujifilm X-T100
  • Buying guide:Best entry-level mirrorless camera

5. Canon EOS Rebel SL2 / EOS 200D

Looking for a first DSLR? The Rebel SL2 ticks plenty of boxes

Type: DSLR Sensor: APS-C CMOS Resolution: 24.2MP Lens mount: Canon EF Viewfinder: Optical Screen type: 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen, 1,040,000 dots Maximum continuous shooting speed: 5fps Movies: 1080p User level: Beginner

Dual Pixel CMOS AF is great
9-point AF system a little basic

Canon recently updated the EOS Rebel SL2, also known as the EOS 200D, with the EOS Rebel SL3 / EOS 250D, but we're sticking with the former for now. While the newer model does add a few extra niceties – 4K video recording and a new processor, for example – the bones are pretty much the same, so you may as well go for the older model and put the cash you save towards a nice lens. The EOS Rebel SL2 offers everything the first-time user needs to get started, such as a great 24.2MP sensor, a fluid AF system when shooting live view and videos, and an easy-to-understand interface. It also works with an endless assortment of lenses and accessories and that touchscreen is a joy to use too.

  • Read our in-depthCanon EOS Rebel SL2 / EOS 200D review
  • Also consider: Nikon D3500
  • Buying guide:Best entry-level DSLR

6. Sony A7 III

Sensor size: Full-frame Resolution: 24.2MP Viewfinder: 2,359K dots Monitor: 3.0-inch tilt-angle touchscreen, 921K dots Autofocus: 693-point AF Maximum continuous shooting rate: 10fps Movies: 4K at 30p User level: Intermediate/expert

Great 24MP sensor
Weather-sealing could be better

We love the A7 III. The original A7 and A7 II showed Sony was moving in the right direction and making all the right noises, but it's this third iteration that has particularly stood out in the mid-range mirrorless market. The core of the camera – namely a 24MP full-frame sensor, 4K video, sensor-based image stabilisation, 10fps burst shooting and a 693-point hybrid AF system – is strong enough, but with two card slots and a 710-shot battery life on top of that, you're getting excellent value for money as well as top performance. We have some reservations with the viewfinder and weather-sealing, but this is still one of the most versatile cameras around right now, mirrorless or otherwise.

  • Read our in-depthSony Alpha A7 III review
  • Also consider:Nikon Z6
  • Buying guide:Best mirrorless camera

7. Panasonic Lumix ZS200 / TZ200

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The perfect travel camera - small, versatile and with a decent zoom

Type: Travel compact Sensor: 1-inch type CMOS Resolution: 20.1MP Lens: 24-360mm, f/3.3-6.4 Viewfinder: EVF Screen type: 3.0-inch touchscreen, 1,240,000 dots Maximum continuous shooting speed: 10fps Movies: 4K User level: Beginner/enthusiast

Decent 15x zoom
Expensive

The Panasonic Lumix ZS200 (known as the Lumix TZ200 outside the US) is the best travel zoom camera right now. This is thanks in part to the camera using a large 1.0-inch sized sensor that enables the pixels to be about 2.4x bigger than they are in models like the Lumix ZS70 / TZ90, and this helps the ZS200 produce much higher quality images. The zoom isn't quite as broad as some though, but the 15x zoom should be more than enough for most shooting situations, while there's a built-in electronic viewfinder that makes it easier to compose images in sunny conditions. Add 4K video recording, along with Panasonic's 4K Photo mode to help capture 8MP images of fleeting moments, and you've got a very capable travel companion. If you're looking for even more performance – and you have deeper pockets – check out Sony's brilliant Cyber-shot RX100 VI.

  • Read our in-depthPanasonic Lumix ZS200 / TZ200 review
  • Also consider: Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VI
  • Buying guide: Best travel camera

8. Panasonic Lumix GH5S

Type: Mirrorless Sensor size: Micro Four Thirds Resolution: 10.2MP Lens: Micro Four Thirds Screen type: 3.2-inch vari-angle touchscreen, 1,620,000 dots Viewfinder: EVF Maximum continuous shooting rate: 12fps Movies: 4K User level: Expert

Multi-aspect sensor design
Absence of IS not for everyone

While it can shoot stills quite happily (although at a pretty limited 10.2MP resolution), the Lumix GH5S should be seen first and foremost as a video camera – if you want to do both you've got the Lumix GH5 to fill that brief, thanks to it's 20.3MP sensor and built-in image stabilization system. The GH5S's breadth of video features is incredibly impressive, including the ability to shoot cinematic 4K footage at up to 60fps. If you want to shoot professional-quality footage without remortgaging your house to buy a pro video camera, you won't find a better video-focused camera right now.

  • Read our in-depthPanasonic Lumix GH5S review
  • Buying guide:Best 4K camera
  • Buying guide:Best camera for vlogging

9. Olympus Tough TG-5

The best rugged, waterproof compact you can buy

Type: Compact Sensor: 1/2.3-inch Resolution: 12MP Lens: 25-100mm f/2-4.9 Viewfinder: N/A Monitor: 3.0-inch screen, 460,000 dots Maximum continuous shooting speed: 20fps Movies: 4K User level: Beginner

Raw capture
Average battery life

The Tough TG-5 from Olympus is built to survive pretty much anything you could throw at it, literally. Waterproof down to depths of 15m, don't mistake it for being merely an underwater camera; being waterproof is also useful for hikers, bikers, kayakers, and skiers. In fact, any outdoor pursuit is game for the TG-5, which is crushproof to 100kg and drop-proof from 2.1m. It can even be used in temperatures as low as -10°C. Add in raw file support and this makes image quality that bit better than its predecessor, while it can shoot 4K video at 30p or high speed footage at 120p in Full HD. The company has recently updated its line with a TG-6 successor, although the specs seem very similar and we've not had the chance to give it a full workout yet – so we're sticking with the TG-5 for now.

  • Read our in-depthOlympus Tough TG-5 review
  • Also consider:GoPro Hero7 Black
  • Buying guide:Best waterproof camera

10. Sony RX10 III

The bridge camera for the photographer who wants quality too

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Type: Bridge camera Sensor: 1.0-inch type CMOS Resolution: 20.1MP Lens: 24-600mm, f/2.8-4 Screen type: 3-inch tilting screen, 1,040,000 dots Viewfinder: EVF Maximum continuous shooting speed: 14fps Movies: 4K User level: Intermediate

Cracking 4K videos
No built-in ND filter

The RX10 III is the third bridge-style superzoom in the popular RX10 line, and while it's had some of its sheen rubbed off by the newer RX10 IV, we reckon the great spec sheet and lower price of the RX10 III makes more sense. Thanks to its large, high-quality 1-inch sensor and image-stabilized 24-600mm-equivalent zoom lens, it's one of the best DSLR alternatives for those that need a massive focal range, although excellent 4K video capabilities and 14fps burst shooting show it to be more than capable when faced with moving subjects too. Too expensive? The previous RX10 II is still available (although its lens has a more modest 24-200mm scope), and Panasonic's competitively priced FZ1000 is another stellar option.

  • Read our in-depthSony RX10 III review
  • Also consider: Panasonic Lumix FZ2000 / FZ2500
  • Buying guide:Best bridge camera

Great value option: Sony RX100 IV

Powerful pocket camera with superb image and video quality

Type: Compact Sensor size: 1-inch CMOS Resolution: 20.1MP Lens: 24-70mm f/1.8-2.8 Monitor: 3-inch tilting, 1.23 million dots Viewfinder: EVF Maximum continuous shooting speed: 16fps Movies: 4K User level: Intermediate

Lovely viewfinder
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LCD not sensitive to touch

Our main reservation with the Sony RX100 IV when it first launched was its high price, but now that some time has passed it's dropped down to a much more sensible level. And while it's still far from the cheapest compact around, you get bags for the money. No other manufacturer can match the camera for its combination of a 1in sensor, 4K video recording, excellent pop-up EVF and 16fps burst mode, while the further pleasures of a tilting LCD screen, wireless connectivity and the option to shoot at up 960fps for slow-motion output on top of all that to make it even more fun to shoot with. If you can live without the 4K video option and you're happy with 10fps burst shooting, you may also want to check out the slightly cheaper RX100 III.

  • Read our in-depthSony RX100 IV review
  • Also consider: Sony Cyber-shot RX100 III
  • Buying guide:Best compact camera