For photography enthusiasts who are interested in taking their skills to the next level, mirrorless cameras can be an excellent option. The best starter mirrorless cameras offer high-quality images, ease of use, and affordability – making them ideal for those just starting out. In this article, we have compiled a list of the top 10 best starter mirrorless cameras currently available on the market, along with a detailed buying guide to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer looking for a second camera, our reviews and buying guide will help you find the best starter mirrorless camera that fits your needs and budget.
Our Top Picks
Last update on 2023-11-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
A Brief Overview of Starter Mirrorless Cameras
Starter mirrorless cameras are lightweight and compact, offering a great introduction to photography for beginners. These cameras are designed to be easy to use, with intuitive controls and automatic settings that make it easy to take great photos without any prior experience.
One of the biggest advantages of mirrorless cameras is their size. They are smaller and more portable than traditional DSLRs, making them perfect for travel and outdoor adventures. Many starter mirrorless cameras also offer interchangeable lenses, providing users with the flexibility to experiment with different types of photography, from landscapes to portraits and beyond. With a starter mirrorless camera, beginners can hone their skills and gain confidence as they explore the world of digital photography.
10 Best Starter Mirrorless Cameras to Buy This Year
- Kit Includes 6 Products—All Brand New Items with all Manufacturer-supplied Accessories + Full USA Warranties:
- FUJIFILM X-S20 Mirrorless Camera with 15-45mm Lens | Black + [2] 64GB Memory Card + [3] Photo Starter Kit + [4] Camera / Camcorder Case + [5] Charger for Fuji...
- FUJIFILM X-S20 Mirrorless Camera with 15-45mm Lens | Black Features: 26.1MP APS-C X-Trans BSI CMOS 4 Sensor, X-Processor 5 Image Processor, 5-Axis In-Body Image...
- FUJIFILM X-S20 Mirrorless Camera with 15-45mm Lens | Black Includes: FUJIFILM X-S20 Mirrorless Camera (Black), FUJIFILM NP-W235 Lithium-Ion Battery (7.2V,...
- Compact, Lightweight and High-Quality RF Lens with a Versatile Zoom Range of 24-105mm
- Optical Image Stabilization at up to 5 Stops of Shake Correction
- Power the EOS RP Camera using the AC Adapter AC-E6N and the Appropriate DC Coupler with a Convenient Household Outlet, for Longer Shooting Sessions
- When Paired with a Compatible AC Adapter, the DC Coupler DR-E18 Helps to Provide Power to the EOS RP Camera Wherever a Convenient Outlet is Located, Including...
- Photo and video capability 16 Megapixel micro Four Thirds sensor confidently captures sharp images with a high Dynamic Range (HDR)
- 4K capture 4K Ultra HD video recording (3840 x 2160) Plus 4K PHOTO pause and save frame that extracts individual high-resolution photos from 4K Ultra HD video
- Intuitive controls easily control aperture and shutter speed settings with the front and rear dials while making white balance and is adjustments on the fly...
- High-resolution viewfinder and LCD display high-resolution (2 360k-dot) OLED live view Finder and rear touch-enabled 3-inch tilt/swivel LCD display (1 040-dot)...
- 2 lens bundle value Lumix g Vario 14-42mm F3 5-5 6 II ASPH and Lumix g Vario 45-150mm F4 0-5 6
- KIT INCLUDES 6 PRODUCTS -- All BRAND NEW Items with all Manufacturer-supplied Accessories + Full USA Warranties:
- [1] Sony ZV-E1 Mirrorless Camera with 28-60mm Lens + [2] 64GB SDXC Memory Card + [3] Deluxe Photo Starter Kit (11 Pieces)
- [4] Tripod 12" Flexipod (Red/Black) + [5] Camera/Camcorder Case + [6] Microfiber Cleaning Cloth
- Sony ZV-E1 Mirrorless Camera with 28-60mm Lens Features: Designed for Content Creators, 12MP Full-Frame Exmor R CMOS Sensor, 5-Axis SteadyShot Image...
- Sony ZV-E1 Mirrorless Camera with 28-60mm Lens Box Includes: Sony ZV-E1 Mirrorless Camera, Sony NP-FZ100 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery (2280mAh), Shoulder...
- UNIVERSAL COMPATIBILITY: External microphone for iPhone, Androids, Cameras, Camcorders, Audio Recorders, Tablets, and Laptops. Use as iPhone microphone, DSLR...
- PROFESSIONAL MOVO MIC: The durable aluminum construction and battery-free design includes a sturdy integrated shock mount to minimize handling noise
- ADJUSTABLE TRIPOD: Metal travel tripod features adjustable tripod legs, and extendable pole, and mini ball head that helps you get the perfect angle every time
- MINI LED LIGHT: 49 LEDs, 5500K Color Temperature, CRI up to 95+, 3 cold shoe mounts, soft light diffuser and 5 brightness settings. Features 5 different...
- 1-YEAR WARRANTY: We've got your back. Our products are designed to ease your technical woes, not add to them. Our friendly US-Based support is here to help
- KIT INCLUDES 6 PRODUCTS -- All BRAND NEW Items with all Manufacturer-supplied Accessories + Full USA Warranties:
- [1] Sony ZV-E1 Mirrorless Camera (White) + [2] 64GB SDXC Memory Card + [3] Deluxe Photo Starter Kit (11 Pieces)
- [4] Tripod 12" Flexipod (Red/Black) + [5] Camera/Camcorder Case + [6] Microfiber Cleaning Cloth
- Sony ZV-E1 Mirrorless Camera (White) Features: Designed for Content Creators, 12MP Full-Frame Exmor R CMOS Sensor, UHD 4K 120p / FHD 240p / 10-Bit 4:2:2, 5-Axis...
- Sony ZV-E1 Mirrorless Camera (White) Box Includes: Sony ZV-E1 Mirrorless Camera (White), Sony NP-FZ100 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery (2280mAh), Shoulder...
- 61MP Full-Frame Exmor R BSI CMOS Sensor; BIONZ X Image Processor & Front-End LSI
- 567-Point Phase-Detection AF System; UHD 4K30p Video with HLG & S-Log3 Gammas
- 5.76m-Dot Tru-Finder OLED EVF; 3.0" 1.44m-Dot Tilting Touchscreen LCD
- Up to 10 fps Shooting, ISO 100-32000; 5-Axis SteadyShot INSIDE Stabilization
- 240MP Pixel Shift Multi Shooting; Bluetooth & Wi-Fi, Dual UHS-II SD Slots
- MULTIPLE ACCESS POINTS – Our Shimoda Action X30 Water Resistant Camera Backpack offers rear and side access options for all your camera gear. The side opening...
- ADJUSTABLE TORSO HEIGHT – The Shimoda Action X30 Water Resistant Camera Backpack has 3 height options with approximately 10 cm (4 in) of vertical adjustment....
- MEDIUM MIRRORLESS CORE UNIT MODULAR CAMERA INSERT INCLUDED – Core Units provide smart, multifunctional, padded and shockproof protection for all your camera...
- EXPANDABLE ROLL-TOP – The Shimoda Action X30 Water Resistant Camera Backpack has a unique roll top feature that can expand with a volume range of 7 liters so...
- SPORT-FRIENDLY DESIGN – With the Action X30, sport-specific features like a removable helmet holder, ski fastening straps, hydration routing and extra durable...
- Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85 Camera - 12-60mm F/3.5-5.6 Lumix G Power O.I.S. Lens (H-FS12060) - Battery Charger - Battery Pack DMW-BLC12 - Body Cap - Hot Shoe Cover...
- Less bulky than a DSLR, the LUMIX G85 is the compact 4K video-enabled Micro Four Thirds Mirrorless (DSLM) camera with true-to-life photo image quality.
- Newly developed in-body gyro sensor adds class-leading 5-axis body stabilization that when mated to LUMIX 2-axis optically stabilized lenses for a "Dual IS"...
- 4K Video recording at 30p/24p 100 Mbps plus a 3.5mm port for external microphones. (Full HD 60p 28Mbps)
- Weather sealed splashproof and dustproof, rugged enough to withstand even the most challenging environments.
- INTERNATIONAL CARRY-ON COMPATIBLE AND TRAVEL FRIENDLY DESIGN – Designed to be the perfect travel partner, the Explore V2 30 water-resistant camera backpack...
- MULTIPLE ACCESS POINTS – The pack offers rear and side access options. The side opening is ideal for quick, under-the-arm access without completely removing...
- ADJUSTABLE TORSO HEIGHT – 3 height options with approximately 7.5 cm (3 in) of vertical adjustment allows the same backpack to fit short or tall — male or...
- MEDIUM MIRRORLESS V2 CORE UNIT MODULAR CAMERA INSERT INCLUDED – Core Units provide shockproof protection for Mirrorless, SLR and DSLR cameras and lenses, and...
- TRIPOD & WATER BOTTLE POCKETS – Quick-deploying pockets on both sides of the pack can be used to fit a water bottle, tripod or other outdoor equipment.
Last update on 2023-11-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
How Does Buying Starter Mirrorless Cameras benefit you?
Starter Mirrorless Cameras are a great option for those who want to take their photography skills to the next level. Whether you’re a beginner or an enthusiast looking for a second camera, there are many reasons why investing in a mirrorless camera is a smart choice. Here are some of the top reasons to consider buying a starter mirrorless camera.
Affordable and budget-friendly option
Starter mirrorless cameras are an ideal choice for beginners who are just starting out with photography but want to learn about and discover new skills. These cameras are affordable and budget-friendly, making them an excellent choice for those who don’t want to spend a lot of money on a high-end camera initially.
Starter mirrorless cameras are great for those who are on a tight budget but still want quality and excellent performance from their camera. These cameras come with various features that allow you to experiment with different settings and techniques to create stunning images. Also, they are compact and lightweight, which is ideal for travel, outdoor photography, or informal shooting sessions. With a starter mirrorless camera, you can explore photography without breaking the bank, and over time, you can upgrade to a more advanced camera gradually.
Compact and lightweight design
Starter Mirrorless Cameras are gaining popularity due to their compact and lightweight design. They are perfect for travelers, photographers on-the-go, and those who want a camera that won’t weigh them down. Their smaller size also makes them easier to handle, making it ideal for shooting in tight spaces.
The smaller size of a mirrorless camera also means that they are less bulky to carry around, making them perfect for outdoor adventures. With a mirrorless camera, photographers can capture high-quality photos while hiking, skiing, or on a safari without getting weighed down by a heavy camera. Additionally, this means that photographers can easily pack their camera into a backpack or carry-on luggage, making it easy to take with them wherever they go. Overall, the compact and lightweight design of a starter mirrorless camera makes it an excellent choice for photographers who value mobility and ease of use.
High-quality image and video capabilities
Starter mirrorless cameras provide high-quality image and video capabilities, making them a great choice for individuals looking to start their journey in photography or videography. These cameras offer a range of advanced features like high-resolution sensors, interchangeable lenses, fast autofocus, and excellent low-light performance, which make them ideal for capturing stunning photos and videos.
As compared to traditional DSLR cameras, starter mirrorless cameras are much lighter and compact, making them easy to carry around for extended periods. They also come with built-in image stabilization, which helps to capture sharp, clear images and videos without the need for a tripod. Additionally, they offer intuitive controls and intuitive user interfaces, making them easy to use for beginners who are just starting to explore the world of photography or videography. Overall, starter mirrorless cameras are a reliable choice for those seeking high-quality image and video capabilities without breaking the bank.
Advanced features and customizations for beginners
Starter Mirrorless Cameras are designed to offer advanced features and customizations for beginners. These cameras are ideal for those who are new to photography and want to learn the ropes of capturing great images. With features such as interchangeable lenses, manual controls, and advanced autofocus systems, these cameras allow beginners to have more control over their images.
In addition, many starter mirrorless cameras come with built-in guides and tutorials, which help users understand how to use the various features and functions of the camera. This makes it easier for beginners to learn about the different aspects of photography, such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, without feeling overwhelmed. Overall, beginner mirrorless cameras offer a perfect balance of advanced features and ease of use, making them an excellent choice for those who are just starting out in photography.
Buyer’s Guides
Before purchasing a starter mirrorless camera, it’s important to take some key factors into consideration.
Sensor size
Sensor size is an important consideration when buying a starter mirrorless camera because it affects the image quality and low-light performance of the camera. A larger sensor size means that more light can be captured, resulting in higher-quality images with less digital noise and better low-light performance. This is especially important for beginners who may be taking photos in a variety of lighting conditions and want the best possible image quality.
Another reason to consider sensor size is the effect it has on depth of field. A larger sensor size results in a shallower depth of field, which can be desirable for portrait or artistic photography, allowing the subject to stand out from the background. A beginner may not be familiar with all the technical terms, but they will certainly notice the difference in the final image results. So, sensor size is an important factor to consider when buying a starter mirrorless camera.
Autofocus performance
Autofocus performance is a crucial aspect to consider when purchasing a starter mirrorless camera. A good autofocus system will ensure that your camera can quickly and accurately focus on your subject, allowing you to capture sharp, clear images. This is particularly important if you want to take photos of moving subjects, such as sports or wildlife, where a slow or inaccurate autofocus system will result in blurry photos. With a better autofocus system, you can also rely on your camera to perform well in low light conditions, which is often a challenge for many cameras.
In addition to the technical benefits of a good autofocus system, it can also greatly improve your overall photography experience. With a faster autofocus, you will spend less time waiting for your camera to focus, allowing you to capture more shots and experiment with different compositions. It will also reduce your frustration with missed shots due to the camera’s inability to focus properly. Overall, investing in a starter mirrorless camera with a good autofocus system will give you the opportunity to explore your creativity and improve your photography skills.
Image stabilization
Image stabilization is an essential feature for anyone who is starting out in photography with a mirrorless camera. This technology helps to reduce blur and shake in photos, resulting in sharper images, even when shooting at slower shutter speeds. As novice photographers may not have a steady hand or experience with using tripods, image stabilization can help compensate for these factors. It can also be handy when shooting in low light, allowing for a higher chance of capturing a clear, in-focus image. As a result, considering image stabilization should be a key factor when purchasing a starter mirrorless camera.
Overall, image stabilization plays a significant role in enhancing the quality of photographs, and for beginners in photography, this feature can help improve the overall experience. Though it may come at a slightly higher cost, investing in a camera that has a reliable image stabilization system is worth the investment for those looking to take the best possible images. Therefore, it is imperative to consider image stabilization when purchasing starter mirrorless cameras, especially for beginner users.
Video capabilities
As the popularity of social media and vlogging continues to grow, video capabilities should be a crucial consideration when buying a starter mirrorless camera. Many beginner photographers also want the ability to shoot high-quality videos, and a mirrorless camera that offers slow-motion, 4K, and 1080p resolution is essential. Additionally, a camera with good autofocus and image stabilization is crucial in capturing smooth and professional-looking videos.
Moreover, video content also requires adequate sound quality, and a mirrorless camera with a microphone port or built-in microphone is worth considering. Being able to shoot good quality video along with excellent still photography will give you a competitive edge. Hence, when investing in a starter mirrorless camera, one must consider the video capabilities, along with image quality and other features.
Battery life
Battery life is an important factor to consider before buying a mirrorless camera as it determines how long the camera can function before requiring a recharge. Mirrorless cameras are designed to be portable and efficient, making them ideal for photographers who are constantly on the move. Poor battery life can quickly become a hindrance, especially during long photo shoots or travel, causing delays and missed opportunities. It is important to consider the battery life of a potential mirrorless camera as it will ultimately affect where and how often the camera can be used.
Additionally, mirrorless cameras typically have smaller bodies and use electronic viewfinders and LCD screens, which can drain battery life faster than traditional DSLRs. This means that choosing a camera with better battery life can provide a more reliable and enjoyable photography experience. It is important to research and compare battery life specifications of different mirrorless cameras to make an informed decision and ensure that the camera will match one’s specific photography needs and expectations.
Lens availability and compatibility
When buying a starter mirrorless camera, one should consider the availability and compatibility of lenses as it will affect the versatility and functionality of the camera. Certain brands may have limited lens options, which can limit one’s creativity and photographic capabilities. Additionally, the compatibility of lenses is crucial as one may invest in lenses that are not compatible with their camera, resulting in the need to purchase an adapter or a new camera altogether.
Furthermore, different lenses offer various focal lengths, depth of field, and aperture ranges, which can greatly impact the outcome of the photograph. Understanding the lens options available and their compatibility with the camera can help one make an informed decision when purchasing a starter mirrorless camera and ensure they can capture the images they desire.
FAQs
What is a starter mirrorless camera and why might it be a good choice for a beginner photographer?
A starter mirrorless camera is a type of digital camera that lacks a mechanical mirror and optical viewfinder found in traditional DSLR cameras. It typically features a compact and lightweight design, interchangeable lenses, and advanced features such as high-speed autofocus and image stabilization.
A starter mirrorless camera is popular among beginner photographers due to its ease of use, portability, and affordability. It can deliver high-quality images and videos comparable to that of a DSLR camera but with a simpler interface and more compact form factor. It also allows new photographers to experiment with different lenses and shooting modes, gradually improving their skills and knowledge in photography.
What are some key features to look for in a starter mirrorless camera, particularly for someone who is new to photography?
When looking for a starter mirrorless camera, it is important to consider several key features. Firstly, look for a camera with a good sensor size and resolution, as this will ensure that your photos are sharp, detailed and have low noise levels. Secondly, consider the camera’s autofocus system. It is important to look for a camera with a good autofocus system that can focus quickly and accurately. Thirdly, look for a camera with an easy-to-use interface and intuitive controls. This will help you quickly learn how to use the camera and get the most out of it. Finally, look for a camera with good connectivity options that allow you to easily share your photos with others.
Additionally, it is important to consider factors such as the camera’s size and weight, as well as the availability of lenses and accessories. Features such as image stabilization and video capabilities may also be important depending on your needs. Overall, the key features to look for in a starter mirrorless camera are a good sensor, reliable autofocus, an intuitive interface, good connectivity options and a range of lenses and accessories. So, these are some of the factors that need to be kept in mind while buying a starter mirrorless camera.
Are there any brands or models of starter mirrorless cameras that are particularly popular or well-regarded among photographers just starting out?
Yes, there are several brands and models of starter mirrorless cameras that are popular among beginner photographers. Some of the well-regarded brands include Sony, Fujifilm, and Olympus.
Sony offers a wide range of mirrorless cameras, with the Sony A6000 being a popular choice among beginners. It has a 24 megapixel sensor, a fast autofocus system, and a compact body. Fujifilm also offers a range of mirrorless cameras, with the Fujifilm X-T200 being a popular choice for beginners. It has a 24 megapixel sensor, a fast autofocus system, and a 3.5-inch touchscreen display. Olympus also has a range of mirrorless cameras, with the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III being a popular choice. It has a 16 megapixel sensor, in-body image stabilization, and a compact body.
How do the prices of starter mirrorless cameras compare to those of traditional DSLRs, and are there any key differences between the two types of cameras that someone just starting out should be aware of?
The prices of starter mirrorless cameras are generally similar to those of traditional DSLRs. However, mirrorless cameras tend to be more compact and lightweight, making them easier to carry around. They also tend to have faster autofocus and better video capabilities, while DSLRs typically have better battery life, larger viewfinders, and an overall more rugged build. New users should consider what types of photography they plan to do and which features are most important to them before making a decision between a mirrorless and DSLR camera.
Final Words
Choosing the best starter mirrorless camera can be a daunting task, but by considering all the factors that are important to you, you can narrow down your choices. Our top ten list includes models that offer excellent performance, image quality, and versatility for beginners. The best starter mirrorless camera for you will depend on your budget, needs, and preferences, but with the help of our buying guide and reviews, you can find the perfect camera to get you started on your journey in photography.
