Mirrorless cameras are a new breed of compact and lightweight cameras that have been gaining popularity over the years. Unlike traditional DSLR cameras, they do not use optical viewfinders, but instead use digital displays to preview and compose shots. If you are looking for the best small mirrorless camera, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will be reviewing the top 11 best small mirrorless cameras on the market and provide you with a comprehensive buying guide to help you choose the best one for your needs. So, without further ado, let’s learn more about the best small mirrorless cameras.
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Last update on 2023-11-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Small Mirrorless Cameras: A Quick Overview
Small mirrorless cameras are electronic devices that are designed to capture high-quality images and videos. They are smaller and lighter than traditional DSLR cameras but offer similar features and functions. Small mirrorless cameras are becoming increasingly popular among photographers because of their portability and ease of use.
Small mirrorless cameras have a mirrorless design that eliminates the need for an optical viewfinder. Instead, they use electronic viewfinders (EVFs) or rear LCD screens to preview and capture images. Most small mirrorless cameras offer interchangeable lenses, allowing users to customize their equipment to suit different photography needs. They also come with advanced autofocus systems, fast burst rates, and high-resolution sensors that capture sharp and detailed images. With their compact design and high-end performance, small mirrorless cameras are ideal for amateur and professional photographers alike.
11 Best Small Mirrorless Cameras Comparison
- 20.1MP stacked back illuminated 1" Exmor RS CMOS sensor w/ DRAM, large aperture 24-70mm1 F1.8-2.8 ZEISS Vario-Sonnar T lens
- Enhanced subject capture: wide 425 Phase/ 425 contrast detection points over 84 percent of the sensor
- Fast and accurate: Up to 11Fps continuous shooting at 24.2 MP raw with crisp, clear natural colors
- Multiple movie functions: Make time lapse movies or slow/quick motion videos without post processing
- Tiltable LCD screen: customizable for vlogging, still photography or recording a professional film
- Superb DSLM image quality without the bulk and weight of traditional DSLRs
- Never miss a photo with three unique 4K ultra HD video pause and save 4K photo modes
- Fast and precise auto focusing tracks the subject; Focus mode AFS (single) / AFF (flexible) / AFC (continuous) / MF, AF mode face/eye detection / tracking / 49...
- Class leading, ultra compact, interchangeable lens and accessory option; HDMI: MicroHDMI TypeD / VIERA Link,video: Auto / 4K / 1080p / 1080i / 720p / 480p,...
- Unwire your creativity with integrated Wi Fi sharing
- Compact, lightweight EOS R series camera with an affordable price
- Smallest and lightest camera body in the EOS R series1 built for excellent mobility
- High image quality with a 24.1 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor and DIGIC 8 processor
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF covering a wide area2 up to 143 zones with auto subject detection and Eye Detection AF available with Servo AF.
- Continuous capture of up to 6.5 shots per second when set to One-Shot AF
- Compact, Lightweight and High-Quality RF Lens with a Versatile Zoom Range of 24-105 millimeter
- Optical Image Stabilization at up to 5 stops of shake correction
- Maximum Magnification of 0.4x and Minimum Focusing Distance of 0.66 feet in Auto Focus.
- Maximum Magnification of 0.5x and Minimum Focusing Distance of 0.43 ft. when using Center Focus Macro.
- Use the EOS Utility Webcam Beta Software (Mac and Windows) to turn your Canon camera into a high-quality webcam, or do the same using a clean HDMI output.
- Fast and accurate Dual Pixel CMOS AF with eye detection AF
- High-image quality with 24.1 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor.
- 4K video and 4K time-lapse movie along with vertical video
- 3.0-Inch touch panel LCD screen with tilt Option for 180° for selfies.
- Built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi technology with auto image transfer.
- EQUIP THE CREATORS: The Hex Ranger Sling has everything you need for your next shoot. Equipped with adjustable dividers giving all your lens a home, external...
- BALLISTIC CORDURA SHELL: Ready for whatever you can throw at it – the ballistic outer shell is extremely durable Cordura Eco fabric that resists water,...
- DAILY CARRY AND TRAVEL MVP: Cushioned inserts can be completely removed or rearranged for use as a compact weekend pack or overnight bag for quick trips and...
- SPECS: Dimensions: 5.5" H x 10.5" W x 3" D | Weight: 0.8 lbs | Capacity: 2.5L
- HERE AT HEX: we are all about creativity and expression. In fact, our motto is "Equip The Creators." We are always looking to make people's lives better by...
- Compact, lightweight RF mount camera with a 24.2 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor and DIGIC X processor.
- 4K uncropped movie with Dual Pixel CMOS AF II at up to 30 fps oversampled from 6K and Full HD High-frame rate movie at up to 120 fps. Movie for Close-up Demo...
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF II covering up to 100% x 100% area with 651 AF zones with auto subject detection and tracking of people, animals, and vehicles using deep...
- Continuous shooting with 12 fps with Electronic First Curtain and 15 fps with Electronic Shutter.
- Take great shots even in difficult settings with Advanced A+ Assist which offers an expanded array of auto-compatible scenes enabling greater expressive...
- Superb image quality: 20.9 MP DX CMOS sensor paired with EXPEED 6 processing engine
- Vlogger Ready: 4K UHD, Flip out Vari-angle LCD, full time AF with eye detection, built-in stereo microphone, external microphone jack, live stream and web...
- Heritage Design: Classic tactile design with analog controls for shutter speed, ISO and exposure compensation
- Send images to your phone: Always connected using the free Nikon SnapBridge app and a compatible smart device. Intuitive: Easy access to Auto Mode, quick...
- Lens Compatibility: Compatible with NIKKOR Z lenses as well as F Mount NIKKOR lenses using FTZ Mount Adapter (sold separately).
- 📸4K & 64 MP Digital Camera for Photography📸: The 4k photography camera with 60fps video resolution and 64 megapixel, provides a smooth shooting experience...
- 📸4K Vlogging Camera for Youtube as PC Camera 📸: This 4k wifi camera can be used as a webcam just by connecting the PC with type C cable, choosing the "PC...
- 📸Point and Shoot Camera with WI-FI 📸: WI-FI connection can turn your smart phone into a wireless remote control and you can instantly transfer photos or...
- 📸Auto & Manual Focus Function📸: This 4k point and shoot camera supports manual focus(MF). Whether in video or camera mode, just gently press the camera...
- 📸Easy to Use Beginners Camera📸: VJIANGER 4k mirrorless photography camera with compact size(0.86LB, 3.9*3.9*5.0 INCH)is so lightweight and portable....
- Feature-Packed Camera: Why trust your memories to a phone. With exceptional performance and versatility, the LUMIX G100 captures life in crystal-clear 4K photo,...
- Grows as Your Skills Grow: iA (intelligent auto) mode gives the perfect shot every time, or use manual modes as your skills sharpen; Micro Four Thirds system is...
- Use as a Webcam: Easily connect the G100 to your computer so that your web calls, livestreams, interviews, and media all look crisp, bright, and professional
- Shoot, Transfer, Edit, Share: Features guide you at every step—frame marker for social media aspect ratios; facial recognition; blur-free dual image...
- Advanced 360-Degree Sound: High-performance microphone with tracking audio auto-adjusts to record clearly inside or outside, in crowds, one-on-ones, nature, and...
- Focus on Your Creativity: Perfect for photographers who are ready to excel, the LUMIX G95M has a superb, powerful 20.3 MP Digital Live MOS sensor and advanced...
- Versatile and Portable: Lightweight Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera is weather sealed with a flexible, free-angle monitor, ready for any adventure; LUMIX G...
- Exceptional Flexibility: 4K 24/30P video capture, plus preinstalled Vlog-L, features log characteristics with 12 Stops of dynamic range for maximum freedom in...
- Features for Maximum Expression: Live View Composite mode lets you compose a single image out of many; adjust focus after shooting; develop, and retouch inside...
- High Sound Quality: External microphone/headphone jacks let you record and monitor sound using external equipment
Last update on 2023-11-15 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Why Do You Need to Buy Small Mirrorless Cameras?
There are several compelling reasons why small mirrorless cameras are becoming an increasingly popular choice for photographers of all levels. Whether you’re a professional or an amateur shooter, here are a few key reasons why you should consider picking up a mirrorless camera for your next photography adventure.
Compact and lightweight design
Small mirrorless cameras are becoming increasingly popular among photographers due to their compact and lightweight design. Compared to traditional DSLR cameras, mirrorless cameras are much lighter and smaller in size, making them more convenient to carry around.
This feature is particularly important for photographers who need to travel frequently and carry their equipment with them. The compact design of these cameras makes them easy to pack into a bag or backpack, and they take up less space, allowing you to carry more equipment.
Furthermore, the lightweight design of mirrorless cameras is also beneficial for photographers who need to hold their cameras for extended periods of time, such as those who specialize in street photography or photojournalism. The cameras’ lightweight feature makes it easier for them to keep their cameras steady and take clear, sharp shots without experiencing hand fatigue. Overall, the compact and lightweight design of mirrorless cameras make them a great option for anyone who needs high-quality photography equipment that is both practical and convenient to use.
High image quality
Small mirrorless cameras have been gaining popularity due to their ability to produce high-quality images. One of the main advantages of these cameras is that they offer a larger sensor size than most point-and-shoot models. The larger sensor allows for better image quality, as it captures more light and detail than smaller sensors.
In addition to the larger sensor, mirrorless cameras offer interchangeable lenses, which allows users to choose a lens that is best suited for their needs. Different lenses offer varying levels of zoom, aperture range, and other features that can affect image quality. When combined with a high-quality lens, the larger sensor of a mirrorless camera produces images with stunning sharpness, clarity, and detail. For those looking for a compact yet versatile camera that produces high-quality images, a mirrorless camera is an excellent choice.
Versatility and customization
Small mirrorless cameras offer versatility and customization options that are not available with traditional DSLR cameras. These cameras are smaller and lighter, making them easier to carry around and use for extended periods of time. They also have interchangeable lenses, allowing the user to switch between different focal lengths and aperture settings to achieve the exact look they desire.
Moreover, mirrorless cameras also provide a wide range of customization options that enable the user to adjust the settings of the camera for different shooting conditions. This includes advanced features like focus peaking, histogram display, and manual focus, which allow the user to fine-tune the camera for their specific needs. With these features, small mirrorless cameras have become a popular choice for amateur and professional photographers who are looking for a compact yet versatile camera that can deliver high-quality images.
Improved video capabilities
Small mirrorless cameras are becoming increasingly popular due to their improved video capabilities. In contrast to traditional DSLRs, mirrorless cameras are designed with video functionality in mind, providing features that allow for high-quality video recording.
One of the main advantages of small mirrorless cameras is their ability to record in 4K resolution, providing ultra-high definition footage with exceptional detail and sharpness. Additionally, mirrorless cameras typically use a sensor-based autofocus system that tracks moving subjects with greater accuracy, resulting in smoother and more seamless videos. They may also come with built-in stabilization technologies that allow for smooth and steady footage even when the camera is handheld. All of these features combine to make mirrorless cameras an ideal tool for videographers and content creators who demand high-quality video capabilities.
Buying Guide – How to Choose the Best Small Mirrorless Cameras?
To find the perfect small mirrorless camera, there are a few crucial aspects that need to be taken into account.
Sensor size
Sensor size is an important factor that should be considered before buying small mirrorless cameras. A larger sensor size means better image quality, low-light capability, and more depth of field control. This is because larger sensors have a larger photosensitive area and can capture more light, resulting in higher image quality and better noise performance in low light situations. They also have a shallower depth of field, which allows for more creative control over the background blur and subject separation. In contrast, smaller sensors are less capable, generally producing lower quality images, especially at high ISO levels.
Therefore, if image quality, low-light performance, and control over depth of field are important, then the sensor size should be a key consideration when choosing a small mirrorless camera. While smaller mirrorless cameras may be more portable and convenient, their smaller sensors can ultimately limit their capabilities in terms of image quality and overall performance. So, it is best to weigh the trade-offs between portability and image quality and choose a mirrorless camera that suits your needs accordingly.
Lens compatibility
Lens compatibility can be a crucial factor to consider when buying small mirrorless cameras. The lens mount of a camera is essentially the physical interface between the camera body and the lens. Different camera brands have different lens mounts which may not be compatible with each other. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the lenses you currently own or wish to purchase in the future are compatible with the camera body to avoid any compatibility issues.
Another reason is that different lenses have different functions and purposes, such as shooting portraits, landscapes, or action shots. Therefore, having a variety of lens options that are compatible with the camera can help you achieve your desired results and expand your photography skills. Additionally, lens compatibility also affects the autofocus performance and image stabilization features of the camera. Choosing lenses with good compatibility can help enhance the camera’s overall performance.
Image stabilization
Image stabilization is a crucial factor when it comes to buying small mirrorless cameras. It helps to counteract the movement of the camera while taking photographs or videos, resulting in sharp and clear images. This is particularly important when shooting in low light conditions or with slow shutter speeds. Image stabilization also helps to reduce the need for a tripod, making it easier to shoot on the go.
Not all small mirrorless cameras come with image stabilization, so it’s important to check before making a purchase. Some cameras have in-body stabilization, while others have stabilization built into the lens. In general, cameras with in-body stabilization tend to be more flexible because they work with any lens attached to the camera. On the other hand, lens-based stabilization tends to be more effective with longer focal lengths. Ultimately, the choice between in-body and lens-based stabilization will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Autofocus capabilities
Autofocus capabilities are a crucial factor to consider before purchasing small mirrorless cameras because they affect the camera’s overall performance. Small mirrorless cameras offer several benefits over traditional DSLRs, including their compact size and weight, making them ideal for travel and casual shooting. However, the autofocus system is what determines how fast and accurate the camera captures the subject.
Poor autofocus capability can result in blurry or out-of-focus images, especially in low-light conditions or when capturing fast-moving objects. Therefore, it is essential to ensure the mirrorless camera you choose has a fast and reliable autofocus system that can keep up with your shooting needs. This will help you capture more precise and sharper images, making your investment in a small mirrorless camera worthwhile.
Battery life
Battery life is one of the critical factors that need to be taken into consideration while buying small mirrorless cameras. This is because mirrorless cameras rely heavily on their battery as they do not have the optical viewfinder that DSLRs have. This means that the camera’s electronic viewfinder (EVF) and the back LCD screen are continuously running, which drains the battery pretty quickly. So if you are out shooting for an extended period, you may end up with a dead battery, which can be frustrating and ruin your experience.
Another point to consider is the battery’s capacity and how many shots you can get on a single charge. A good battery capacity can allow you to shoot for an entire day without having to worry about running out of juice frequently. A smaller battery capacity can also lead to poor performance. Hence, it is critical to consider battery life while buying small mirrorless cameras as it is a vital aspect that can affect your photography experience.
Video recording options
Video recording has become an essential feature of small mirrorless cameras because videos are now widely used in social media, vlogs, and content creation. Small mirrorless cameras often come with high-quality video recording features that allow users to capture stunning videos with ease. Therefore, before purchasing a small mirrorless camera, it is crucial to consider its video recording options such as resolution, frame rate, video codecs, audio quality, and video stabilization. High-end mirrorless cameras can record 4K videos, have advanced autofocus systems, and external microphone ports, which are essential features for anyone who desires to produce professional-looking videos.
Furthermore, video recording options enable users to create engaging and compelling video content for their audiences. In today’s world of digital marketing, video content is king, and small mirrorless cameras give users the tools to capture great footage that can be used in their marketing campaigns. Therefore, video recording options should be a critical consideration when buying a small mirrorless camera, as it has become an essential component of content creation and marketing.
FAQs
What are the advantages of using a small mirrorless camera?
Small mirrorless cameras offer several advantages over traditional bulky DSLRs. Firstly, they are significantly smaller and lighter, making them highly portable and easy to carry around. They are also less intimidating, making them ideal for street photography, travel, and other situations where you want to blend in and go unnoticed.
Secondly, mirrorless cameras offer advanced features such as fast autofocus, high-speed shooting, and high-quality electronic viewfinders that provide a real-time view of the image you’re framing. They also typically offer video recording capabilities with high-quality 4K resolution. Moreover, with no mirror mechanism, the cameras can achieve faster continuous shooting speeds than DSLRs and produce less noise while doing so. Lastly, some mirrorless cameras also have the ability to use legacy lenses with an adapter, providing greater lens flexibility.
Are small mirrorless cameras suitable for professional photography?
Yes, small mirrorless cameras are suitable for professional photography. In fact, many professional photographers have switched from bulky DSLRs to smaller, more compact mirrorless cameras due to their high image quality and portability. Mirrorless cameras offer the same level of control and customization as traditional DSLRs, with the added benefits of being lightweight and easier to carry around on photoshoots. Mirrorless cameras also often have advanced features such as fast autofocus systems, high-resolution electronic viewfinders, and 4K video capabilities, making them a great choice for both photography and videography professionals.
However, it’s important to note that small mirrorless cameras may not be the best option for all types of professional photography, as some fields may require specialized equipment or larger sensors for optimal image quality. Additionally, some photographers may prefer the ergonomic feel and handling of a larger DSLR. Ultimately, the choice of camera depends on the needs and preferences of the individual professional photographer.
Do small mirrorless cameras have a limited lens selection compared to larger DSLRs?
Small mirrorless cameras do have a more limited lens selection than larger DSLRs. This is because DSLRs have been around for a much longer time and have a larger range of compatible lenses. Additionally, because DSLRs are often the preferred choice for professional photographers, lens manufacturers tend to focus more on developing lenses for that market.
However, mirrorless camera systems are evolving rapidly, and more lenses are being developed every year. They also have the advantage of being able to use adapters to use DSLR lenses with the mirrorless camera system. Therefore, while there is still a smaller selection of lenses available for mirrorless cameras, this limitation is becoming less of an issue over time.
Key Takeaways
When it comes to small mirrorless cameras, there are plenty of options to choose from. Our top 11 list includes cameras from various brands with different features and price points. Ultimately, the best small mirrorless camera for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Whether you’re a professional photographer or an amateur looking to up your photography game, investing in one of the best small mirrorless cameras is a great idea. With their compact size and high-quality performance, these cameras are perfect for capturing stunning images on-the-go. So, don’t hesitate to check out our top 11 picks and find the perfect camera to suit your needs.
