The 11 Best Mirrorless Cameras on the Market (and 5 beginner friendly options)
I know full well how challenging it can be to find your go-to professional camera. They’re expensive, and you want to make the best decision possible and not have any regrets.
That’s why I created a comprehensive yet easy-to-digest breakdown of the best mirrorless cameras on the market and help educate people as they navigate through the information to find a setup that works for them.
Hopefully, this helps you narrow down your decision. However, for many, you’ll likely stay within your current ecosystem, so you won’t need to buy new lenses. That’s what I would recommend first and foremost. Don’t switch unless you absolutely have to because you’ll spend a ton on lenses!
Shop on your own: Amazon.com and Adorama.com.
Best Mirrorless Cameras in the World (2025 Edition)
Considering I’m a mere mortal with only so much money, I haven’t had the ability to try out all of the best mirrorless cameras. The ones I have tried or owned, I have more details, as well as photos taken with the cameras. However, with some thorough research, I’ve identified what I believe are the best mirrorless cameras currently available on the market.
1. Sony A1 II – Best Overall Flagship Mirrorless Camera
The Sony A1 II is Sony’s new flagship mirrorless beast, built for professionals who refuse to compromise. With a 50MP stacked full-frame sensor, 30fps blackout-free shooting, and 8K60p video, this camera dominates both the photography and cinema world.
Its new AI-powered autofocus system handles birds in flight, athletes mid-sprint, and even erratic human eye tracking with ease. It’s ideal for commercial photographers, sports shooters, wildlife pros, and hybrid creators shooting high-res stills and cinematic videos. You’re paying top dollar, but you’re getting a no-compromise machine.
- 8K 60p video, 50MP full-frame, 30fps RAW shooting
- Incredible autofocus + real-time tracking
- $6,500+
- Buy on Amazon (Save $2,000 and get the A1)
- Buy on Adorama
2. Canon EOS R5 Mark II – Best Canon Mirrorless for Hybrid Creators
The Canon R5 II takes everything beloved about the original R5 and turns it up to 11. You get 45MP resolution, 8K60 RAW internal video, better heat dissipation, and an even faster autofocus engine.
It’s an ideal choice for hybrid shooters—wedding photographers, portrait pros, or YouTubers—who demand pristine image quality and professional-level video from a single body. Plus, the RF lens ecosystem continues to shine. If you’re already in the Canon system, this is your upgrade path.
- 45MP full-frame, 8K internal RAW video, advanced subject tracking
- Better thermals than R5, great for weddings, portraits, and video
- $4,000–$4,500
- Buy on Amazon
- Buy on Adorama
3. Nikon Z9 – Best Nikon Mirrorless Camera for Professionals
The Nikon Z9 is Nikon’s top-of-the-line mirrorless system—and one of the best professional tools on the market today. With a 45.7MP stacked sensor, no mechanical shutter (thanks to its ultra-fast sensor readout), and industry-leading autofocus and tracking, the Z9 is a war machine for wildlife, sports, and high-end commercial photography.
Add in 8K60 video, dual CFexpress cards, and a rock-solid weather-sealed build, and it’s clear Nikon made this for elite-level pros.
- 45.7MP stacked sensor, 20fps RAW, 8K video
- No mechanical shutter, full pro build
- Used for sports, wildlife, and commercial photography
- $5,500+
- Buy on Amazon
- Buy on Adorama
4. Leica SL2-S – Best Mirrorless for Design & Color Purists
The Leica SL2-S may only have a 24MP sensor, but what it offers is exceptional build quality, unbeatable design, and Leica’s signature color rendering. It’s a full-frame mirrorless for those who value manual control, simplicity, and timeless visual output.
Filmmakers will appreciate its 10-bit video and solid codecs. Not a camera for everyone—but for those who appreciate the Leica experience, it’s worth every dollar.
- 24MP full-frame sensor, premium Leica color science
- Stunning build, simple UI, excellent for stills
- $5,000+
- Buy on Amazon
- Buy on Adorama
5. Hasselblad X2D 100C – Best Medium Format Mirrorless Camera
For the discerning artist or commercial photographer, the Hasselblad X2D 100C offers jaw-dropping image quality from a 100MP medium format sensor. The color science is rich and true-to-life, and the dynamic range is immense, making this a perfect tool for fine art, product photography, or high-end landscape work.
While it’s slower and not built for action, it’s unrivaled when it comes to detail and tonality. Bonus: it now features 5-axis IBIS, making handheld medium format more realistic than ever.
- 100MP BSI medium format sensor, IBIS, stunning detail
- For commercial/fine art shooters
- $8,200+
- Buy on Amazon
- Buy on Adorama
6. Canon EOS R5 – Still a Top Choice for Hybrid Shooters
Despite the release of the R5 Mark II, the original Canon R5 remains a workhorse and now comes at a more accessible price. It delivers 45MP images with beautiful color science and crisp 8K30p video—making it an excellent hybrid option for wedding photographers, content creators, and event shooters.
The ergonomics are classic Canon, and the IBIS, dual card slots, and weather-sealing make it extremely capable. If you don’t need the extra horsepower of the R5 II, this is a phenomenal value.
- 45MP sensor, 8K video, fast and reliable AF
- A fantastic all-around choice at a slightly lower price than the Mark II
- $3,400–$3,900
- Buy on Amazon
- Buy on Adorama
This is my current camera and I absolutely love it. It’s been my trusty sidekick since the fall of 2022. I upgraded from the Canon Mark 5D III, and having one of the best mirrorless cameras has been a game-changer. I really don’t have any complaints (though I would love a bit more megapixels, but at 45, you honestly don’t need any more to function professionally).
It’s been with me in Iceland, Alaska, Australia, Canada, and on backpacking trips throughout Washington. And it’s never failed me. *Knock on wood*
Lastly, for those moving to mirrorless cameras, I have had ZERO issues with my Canon EF-RF converter. It works like a charm, and I haven’t had any quality issues either.
7. Sony A7R V – Best High-Resolution Mirrorless Camera
Packing a whopping 61MP full-frame sensor, the Sony A7R V is the ideal choice for landscape, architecture, studio, and macro shooters who need insane levels of detail. Sony’s new AI-driven autofocus adds precision to this high-res sensor and improved IBIS (up to 8 stops) means you can handhold in lower light than ever.
You also get 8K video and deep customization, making this a versatile tool even for hybrid creators. If sharpness and dynamic range are your priority, this is your pick.
- 61MP sensor, insane detail, top-tier EVF
- Great for landscapes, portraits, and studio work
- $3,800+
- Buy on Amazon
- Buy on Adorama
I had the pleasure of bringing this to Alaska, along with a Sony 400mm f/2.8 and a 24-70mm f/2.8. The tracking and autofocus on animals was incredible nd blew me away. My Canon couldn’t track as well, which made it invaluable for photographing brown bears in Katmai National Park. If you’re already in the Sony ecosystem and don’t want to spend $6,500 for the A1, I highly recommend the R5.
8. Nikon Z8 – Flagship Power in a Smaller Body
Think of the Nikon Z8 as the Z9’s younger, leaner sibling. You get the same 45.7MP stacked sensor, 8K video, and blackout-free EVF, but in a smaller body that’s better suited for travel and handheld work.
Wildlife photographers, wedding shooters, and documentary filmmakers will love this camera’s versatility, all while saving over $1,000 compared to the Z9. It’s a pro tool in a less intimidating form factor.
- Nearly all the power of the Z9 in a smaller and lighter form
- 45.7MP, 20fps, 8K60p
- $4,000–$4,200
- Buy on Amazon
- Buy on Adorama
9. Fujifilm GFX100 II – Medium Format Muscle for Professionals
The Fujifilm GFX100 II brings medium format into the mirrorless world with blazing speed and jaw-dropping quality. Featuring a 102MP BSI sensor that’s 1.7x larger than full-frame, this beast delivers enormous dynamic range, gorgeous Fuji colors, and exceptional low-light performance.
Unlike many medium format cameras, it’s surprisingly fast—with 8fps burst shooting and advanced subject detection AF. Videographers will also love its 8K video, ProRes internal recording, and cinema-level image quality.
Perfect for commercial pros, landscape photographers, and high-end editorial work where resolution and detail are paramount. If you have the budget, you can’t go wrong with making one of the best mirrorless cameras yours.
- 102MP medium format sensor, 8fps burst, 8K ProRes internal video
- For commercial, landscape, and fine art photographers who demand the highest resolution and dynamic range
- $7,500–$8,000
- Buy on Amazon
- Buy on Adorama
10. Leica Q3 – Best Luxury Compact Mirrorless
The Leica Q3 might not be an interchangeable-lens camera, but it earns a spot here for its 60MP full-frame sensor, Summilux 28mm f/1.7 fixed lens, and drop-dead gorgeous image quality.
It’s beloved by street photographers and travel creatives who want minimalist setups without losing detail. You also get phase-detect AF, macro mode, 8K video, and timeless Leica design.
- 60MP full-frame fixed-lens camera, weather-sealed, amazing colors
- For street photographers and Leica fans
- $6,000+
- Buy on Amazon
- Buy on Adorama
Canon EOS R1 – Best Mirrorless for Pro Sports & Wildlife
Canon’s first flagship mirrorless camera, the EOS R1, is built for speed, precision, and reliability. It features a 24.2MP stacked full-frame sensor, blackout-free 40 fps shooting, and Canon’s most advanced autofocus system to date with deep learning subject tracking.
Designed for elite sports, wildlife, and photojournalism, the R1 also packs in 6K RAW video, dual CFexpress slots, and a rugged pro body with an integrated grip. This is the tool for those who never miss a moment and are looking to have one of the best mirrorless cameras on the market.
- 24.2MP stacked full-frame sensor, 40 fps burst, 6K RAW video
- For sports shooters, wildlife pros, and Canon loyalists
- $6,800+
- Buy on Amazon
- Buy on Adorama
Comparison Table for the Best Mirrorless Cameras
| Camera | Sensor | Video | Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sony A1 II | 50MP FF | 8K60 | $$$$$ | All-around pro |
| Canon R5 II | 45MP FF | 8K60 | $$$$ | Hybrid shooters |
| Nikon Z9 | 45MP FF | 8K60 | $$$$ | Wildlife/Sports |
| Hasselblad X2D | 100MP MF | 4K | $$$$$ | Fine art |
| Sony A7R V | 61MP FF | 8K | $$$ | Detail/studio |
| Canon R5 | 45MP FF | 8K | $$$ | Dynamic All-Around |
| Nikon Z8 | 45.7MP FF | 8K60 | $$$$ | Pro on-the-go |
| Leica SL2-S | 24MP FF | 4K60 | $$$$ | Color purity |
| Leica Q3 | 60MP FF | 8K | $$$$ | Travel/street |
| Fujifilm | 102MP MF | 8K | $$$$ | Fine art |
| Canon R1 | 24MP FF | 6K | $$$$ | Sports/Wildlife |
5 Budget Mirrorless Cameras in 2025
For those who are not in the market for the best mirrorless cameras, let’s drop down into a more affordable price range.
1. Canon EOS R50 – Best Budget Mirrorless for Beginners
The Canon EOS R50 is one of the most accessible entry points into Canon’s mirrorless system. Lightweight and compact, it’s designed with simplicity in mind—perfect for travel, vlogging, and everyday photography.
The 24MP APS-C sensor delivers excellent color and sharpness, while Canon’s reliable Dual Pixel autofocus helps ensure your subject is always sharp, even if you’re just starting out. It also has a fully articulating screen, making it a solid vlogging choice.
- Sensor: 24.2MP APS-C
- Autofocus: Dual Pixel CMOS AF with eye tracking
- Video: 4K/30p with no crop
- Who it’s for: Beginners, travel photographers, vloggers
- Price Range: $679–$850 (with kit lens)
Buy on Amazon | Buy on Adorama
2. Sony ZV-E10 – Best for Beginner Creators & Vloggers
Sony’s ZV-E10 was made with content creators in mind. It combines Sony’s class-leading autofocus with an APS-C sensor in a body that’s optimized for video creation.
With a side-flip screen, solid built-in mic, and dedicated background defocus button, it’s an ideal choice for YouTubers or streamers who want DSLR-like quality without needing pro-level skills. Its compact form also makes it great for travel.
- Sensor: 24.2MP APS-C
- Video: 4K/30p, FHD 120p for slow motion
- Autofocus: Fast, real-time tracking with face/eye detection
- Who it’s for: Vloggers, YouTubers, solo creators
- Price Range: $750+ (body only)
Buy on Amazon | Buy on Adorama
3. Fujifilm X-S20 – Best All-Around Midrange Camera Under $1,500
The Fujifilm X-S20 is an incredible value for both photography and video. With a 26MP APS-C sensor, in-body image stabilization (IBIS), 6.2K video recording, and excellent battery life, it’s perfect for hybrid creators.
The classic Fuji colors and film simulations make editing photos more fun and creative, and the new “Vlog Mode” on the mode dial simplifies things for newer users.
- Sensor: 26.1MP X-Trans CMOS 4
- IBIS: 5-axis image stabilization
- Video: 6.2K/30p, 4K/60p
- Who it’s for: Hybrid shooters, travel photographers, casual videographers
- Price Range: $1,700 (with lens)
Buy on Amazon | Buy on Adorama
4. OM SYSTEM OM-5 – Best Compact Camera for Outdoor & Travel Use
The OM SYSTEM OM-5 (formerly Olympus) is a rugged and compact mirrorless camera that punches above its weight for adventure, nature, and travel photography. Its Micro Four Thirds sensor may be smaller than APS-C, but it’s paired with excellent IBIS, weather-sealing, and computational photography features like handheld high-res mode and live ND.
This is a great pick for hikers or travelers who want performance in a small, reliable package.
- Sensor: 20MP Micro Four Thirds
- Features: IP53 weather-sealing, live ND filter, handheld high-res
- Video: 4K/30p
- Who it’s for: Travel shooters, hikers, outdoor content creators
- Price Range: $899 (body only)
Buy on Amazon | Buy on Adorama
5. Nikon Z30 – Best Budget Mirrorless for Video Beginners
Nikon’s Z30 is a fantastic budget-friendly mirrorless camera geared toward video creators. It ditches the electronic viewfinder to save on cost and weight but keeps essential features like a fully articulating touchscreen, 4K video with no crop, and excellent autofocus.
Its compact size makes it a great choice for streaming, video podcasts, or casual content creation on the go.
- Sensor: 20.9MP APS-C
- Video: 4K/30p, Full HD 120p
- Design: Flip-out LCD, mic input, no EVF
- Who it’s for: Beginner vloggers, streamers, budget-conscious creators
- Price Range: $700 (body only)
Buy on Amazon | Buy on Adorama
FAQ: Best Mirrorless Cameras in 2025 and Beyond
Do professional photographers use mirrorless cameras?
Yes, if you’re a professional photographer, there’s a 98% chance that you’ve transitioned to the mirrorless camera world to take advantage of new technology and better lenses being produced by top-tier companies. Some people may have purchased the last great DSLR and are holding on for a while, but in the end, everyone will eventually have a mirrorless camera.
Who is the leader in mirrorless cameras?
Four years ago, I would have said Sony is running away with it, and it’s not even close.
While they are still the leader in my mind, other brands, especially Canon, have caught up nicely. There’s probably not a massive difference in terms of quality in my mind, but some people who are far more focused on the granular details would probably say there are plenty of things that separate the two.
What are the disadvantages of a mirrorless camera?
For one, mirrorless cameras drain battery power at a significantly higher rate than DSLRs, so you’ll want to have more batteries on hand than you’re accustomed to. Another drawback, at least early on, was that they tended to overheat. I think this has been worked out enough that it’s not much of an issue.
Why is everyone switching to mirrorless cameras?
People are switching to the best mirrorless cameras because they offer better performance and are newer than older DSLR models. Camera companies are no longer making DSLRs, so if you want new technology, you have to go this route. Additionally, they are lighter, more compact, and create incredible images.
Should I buy a mirrorless or DSLR camera?
It is now the era of mirrorless cameras. DSLRs are fantastic cameras, but it’s time to leave the old ones behind and dive into mirrorless. The biggest reason is that the new lenses being made are designed for mirrorless cameras, and at least for Canon, that makes a significant difference.
Sony has been on the mirrorless train for a while, so they primarily offer lenses for mirrorless cameras.
What other camera accessories do I recommend?
Trusty Backpack
Back in 2021, I purchased my first Wandrd backpack in Anchorage for my 21-day trip to Alaska. For the next four years, it’s been a trusty partner on all my outings to Iceland (twice), road tripping throughout the PNW, up to Canada, and so much more.
Reliable SD and CF Cards
This is one area where you do not want to go cheap, because if your images get corrupted on the card, there might not be a way to recover them. I’ve been going with Lexar Professional for the last couple of years, and they’ve never failed me.
Visit my Amazon storefront for additional camera accessories.
Final Thoughts on the Best Mirrorless Cameras in 2025
I know it can be tough to sort through the best mirrorless cameras and find one that not only fits your budget but also aligns with your photography goals.
If you’re a Canon shooter, the call is easy. Choose the R5 (if your budget is smaller) or opt for the new offering with the R5 II. You can’t go wrong with either.
For Sony shooters, unless you do this full-time, there’s no reason to get the A1. It’s far too expensive and more than you likely need. Honestly, the A7rV might be too much for most people, so maybe consider dropping down to the A7r4 and save some bucks.
Whatever you end up choosing, I hope this guide to the best mirrorless cameras helped give you plenty to consider, and if you do plan to make a purchase, using one of my links helps support this website and my business.
Until next time, adventurers, stay safe.
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