Mirrorless cameras are becoming really popular among people who take photos and videos because they are small and light, so you can easily carry them around. Unlike a DSLR, these cameras don’t have a mirror, so the picture you take is exactly what you see in the viewfinder. Not having a mirror is an advantage because it lets you take lots of pictures quickly. There are many options to choose from, so you can find one that fits your budget.
In this article, we’ll talk about the top five mirrorless cameras that cost less than $1000. We’ll rank them based on how good they are at taking pictures and videos, their features, and how easy they are to use.
A list of the 5 best mirrorless cameras under $1,000
1) Canon EOS R10
Price: $879.99 (body only)
| Features | Canon EOS R10 |
| Sensor Size | APS-C |
| Sensor Type | CMOS |
| Image Resolution | 24.2 MP |
| Video Capabilities | 4K 30fps, 4K 60fps, 1080p 120fps |
| ISO Range | 100–32,000 |
| Viewfinder | OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) |
| Weight | 381g (13.48 oz) Body Only |
| Display | TFT LCD |
| Battery | LP-E17 |
| Run Time | With LCD: 430 shots (Approx.) With Viewfinder: 260 shots (Approx.)(note: run time specifications claimed by canon) |
The R10 camera is easy to use, with a friendly interface. It comes with a high-quality 24MP sensor and impressive video features (4K 60p). However, one downside is its APS-C sensor, which may not be great for low-light photos. Since it’s a newer model, the lens options are not as extensive as some competitors.
Before you purchase, check out the packages on Canon’s official website. If you’re a content creator, you’re in luck because Canon offers a special bundle for professionals like you. This package includes an 18-45mm lens, battery cover, stereo microphone, and more exciting items.
Canon EOS R10 Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High-resolution sensor (if applicable) | Price may be on the higher side |
| Advanced autofocus system | Limited lens selection for the RF mount (if new) |
| 4K or higher video recording capabilities | Limited availability of third-party accessories |
| In-body image stabilization (if available) | Size and weight (may be subjective) |
| High-speed continuous shooting | Battery life may vary based on usage |
| Vari-angle touchscreen LCD | Learning curve for new users with complex features |
| Weather-sealed body for durability | Compatibility issues with existing EF lenses (if new) |
2) Fujifilm X-S10
Price: $899 (body only)
| Features | Fujifilm X-S10 |
| Sensor Size | APS-C |
| Sensor Type | X-Trans CMOS |
| Image Resolution | 26.1 MP |
| Video Capabilities | 4K 30fps, 1080p 240fps |
| ISO Range | ISO 160-12800 Extended ISO: 80-51200 |
| Viewfinder | OLED Color Viewfinder |
| Weight | 415g (body only) |
| Display | LCD |
| Battery | NP-W126S Li-ion |
| Run Time | Approx. 325 frames (Normal Mode) 4K: 40min (Approx.)Full HD: 40min (Approx.) |
The Fujifilm X-S10 is a great choice in the APS-C mirrorless camera category. It finds a perfect balance between versatility and value. With its 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS sensor, you get top-notch image quality and excellent performance in low-light conditions. The autofocus is quick for photographers, and videographers can enjoy recording in 4K at 30fps with oversampling.
However, there are a couple of downsides to consider. The X-S10 lacks weather sealing, which may not be ideal for those who love outdoor photography. Also, while the autofocus is good, it might not meet the expectations of professionals or those who require superior subject tracking.
On the positive side, the X-S10 is compatible with various accessories that allow you to customize your camera gear. You can check out different camera mounts, flash mounts, and tripod grips on the official Fujifilm website to enhance your photography experience.
Fujifilm X-S10 Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact and Lightweight | Smaller battery compared to some peers |
| In-Body Image Stabilization | Not weather-sealed |
| Excellent Image Quality | Limited selection of native lenses |
| Intuitive Controls | No top LCD screen |
| Vari-angle Touchscreen | 4K video has a 10-minute limit in 30p |
| 20 fps Continuous Shooting | EVF resolution is lower compared to some |
| Film Simulation Modes | No headphone jack |
| Eterna Bleach Bypass |
3) Sony A7 II
Price: $899.99 (body only)
| Features | Sony A7 II |
| Sensor Size | 35 mm Full-frame |
| Sensor Type | Exmor CMOS |
| Image Resolution | 24.3 MP |
| Video Capabilities | 1080p- 24fps, 30fps, 60fps |
| ISO Range | ISO 50-25000 |
| Viewfinder | EVF |
| Weight | 556g (body only) |
| Display | LCD |
| Battery | NP-FW50 Li-ion |
| Run Time | 350 shots (CIPA Rating) |
The Sony A7 II gets a lot of compliments for its picture quality, even though it’s an older camera. It keeps up with today’s technology by being one of the first cameras to have a five-axis image stabilization system. It’s quite compact for a full-frame camera, making it great for travel and everyday photography.
However, it does have a downside – it doesn’t offer 4K picture quality.
Sony A7 II Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Full-frame sensor | Limited touchscreen functionality |
| In-body image stabilization (IBIS) | Autofocus speed may not be the fastest |
| Compact size | Limited video features (no 4K) |
| Interchangeable lenses | Limited buffer for burst shooting |
| Customizable controls | Battery life may be relatively short |
| Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity | Video capabilities may not meet the needs of some users |
4) Fujifilm X-T30 II
Price: $899 (body only)
| Features | Fujifilm X-T30 II |
| Sensor Size | APS-C |
| Sensor Type | X-Trans CMOS |
| Image Resolution | 26.1 MP |
| Video Capabilities | 4K 30fps, 1080p 120fps |
| ISO Range | 160-12800 Extended ISO: 80-51200 |
| Viewfinder | OLED Color Viewfinder |
| Weight | 329g (body only) |
| Display | Touch Screen LCD |
| Battery | NP-W126S Li-ion |
| Run Time | Approx. 390 frames (Normal Mode)4K: 45 mins (Approx.)Full HD: 45 mins (Approx.) |
The Fujifilm X-T30 II is well-liked in the APS-C mirrorless category because of its fast autofocus and easy-to-use controls. With its 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS sensor, it produces great photos even in low light. The camera’s retro appearance, thanks to its classic dials and physical buttons, is attractive to those who appreciate a vintage style.
However, it’s a bit on the larger side, making it less convenient to carry. Additionally, it doesn’t support 4K video at 60fps, a feature that many would have found exciting based on its impressive specifications.
Fujifilm X-T30 II Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact and lightweight design | Limited touchscreen functionality |
| Excellent image quality with X-Trans sensor | 4K video recording has a crop factor |
| Advanced autofocus system | No in-body image stabilization |
| Impressive burst shooting speed | Limited buffer capacity in continuous shooting |
| User-friendly interface with physical dials | Limited weather sealing |
| 3.5mm microphone input for audio recording | No headphone jack for audio monitoring |
| Film Simulation modes for creative looks | Limited improvements over the X-T30 |
| Tilting touchscreen for flexible shooting | Limited battery life (typical for mirrorless) |
| Comprehensive set of physical controls | USB-C charging, but not USB Power Delivery |
5) Nikon Z50
Price: $759.95 (body only)
| Features | Nikon Z50 |
| Sensor Size | APS-C |
| Sensor Type | CMOS |
| Image Resolution | 20.9 MP |
| Video Capabilities | 4K 30fps, 1080p 120fps |
| ISO Range | ISO 100-51200 |
| Viewfinder | EVF |
| Weight | 395g (body only) |
| Display | TFT LCD |
| Battery | EN-EL25 li-ion |
| Run Time | 300 shots (CIPA rating)Video: 75 min.(Approx.) |
The Nikon Z50 is a mirrorless camera that mixes a reasonable price with lots of features. It has a 20.9MP CMOS sensor that captures clear pictures and works well in low light. The camera is great for travel and vlogging due to its flip-out touchscreen and lightweight body.
But there are some downsides. The video quality tops out at 4K 30fps, which might not be enough for creators who prefer higher frame rates. The battery doesn’t last too long, and it doesn’t have in-body image stabilization, which could affect how well it works in certain shooting situations.
Nikon Z50 Pros and Cons:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Compact and lightweight design | Limited native Z-mount lens selection |
| Excellent image quality with APS-C sensor | No in-body image stabilization |
| 4K video recording with good quality | Limited buffer capacity in continuous shooting |
| Hybrid autofocus system with good performance | Limited touchscreen functionality |
| Tilting touchscreen for flexible shooting | No headphone jack for audio monitoring |
| Built-in electronic viewfinder | Single UHS-I card slot |
| Good battery life for its class | Limited weather sealing |
| USB charging for convenience | No in-body focus motor, relies on lens AF |
| Compatibility with F-mount lenses via adapter | Limited to contrast-detect AF in 4K video |
Noteworthy mentions
1) Sony ZV-E10
The Sony ZV-E10 is an excellent camera for travel and vlogging because it’s small and light. However, its video features are a bit restricted, topping out at 1080p 120fps, and its smaller APS-C sensor affects how well it works in low light.
2) Panasonic Lumix G9 II
The Panasonic Lumix G9 II is a great camera for capturing wildlife because it’s tough and can handle different weather conditions. It can take 20 pictures per second, making it perfect for capturing fast-moving wildlife.
However, there’s a downside to this camera. It has a Micro Four Thirds sensor, which isn’t as good in low-light situations compared to larger sensors like APS-C and full-frame. Plus, it’s a bit expensive, so it didn’t make it onto the list. But if the price is not an issue for you, it could still be a good choice.
Picking the right mirrorless camera under $1,000 can be overwhelming, but it’s an exciting process. Just remember that the “best” camera depends on what you need and how you like to take photos. Think about your skill level, the types of photos you like to take, your budget, and the lenses that are compatible with the camera.
In this article, we looked at five different cameras, each with its own strengths. Whether you want a camera that’s great for fast bursts of photos, works well in low light, is excellent for videos, or is easy to carry around, there’s a camera on this list for you. So, make a shortlist of your favorites, go to a camera store, and let the lenses help you decide. Remember, the most important thing isn’t just about megapixels or fancy features.