10 best mirrorless cameras in 2016

A mirrorless camera, sometimes referred to as a csc type camera has interchangeable lenses like a dslr, usually as good quality as a dslr but does not have an optical viewfinder, some have electronic viewfinders some rely upon the monitor on the back for composing the pictures. They are gaining in popularity because they are small and light but offer good quality like a dslr camera. This review on Techradar will help you

Once upon a time, keen photographers bought a DSLR – it was the established order of things. But the mirror mechanism of a DSLR is complex and noisy and adds to the weight of the camera, and that’s where the mirrorless camera, or compact system camera comes in. They keep the big sensors and interchangeable lenses of DSLR cameras but ditch the mirror to produce a smaller, lighter and simpler camera.

In fact, there are still pros and cons to both designs. If you want to find out more, read this: Mirrorless vs DSLR cameras: 10 key differences.

Some mirrorless cameras have a compact, rectangular body, some are styled like DSLRs with a ‘pentaprism’ on the top – though this houses an electronic viewfinder rather than the optical viewfinder you get with a DSLR.

Be aware, too, that cheaper mirrorless cameras don’t come with viewfinders at all – instead, you compose the photo on the rear screen, just as you do with a compact camera or a smartphone. (If you’re still not sure what kind of camera you need, read our easy to follow guide: What camera should I buy?)

No two photographers are exactly the same – we’re all looking for slightly different things, so we’ve ranked the 10 best compact system cameras you can buy right now based not just on specs, handling and performance, but size, simplicity and value for money too.

1. Fuji X-T2

A stunning camera perfect for enthusiast photographers

Sensor size: APS-C | Resolution: 24.3MP | Viewfinder: EVF | Monitor: 3.0-inch tilt-angle display, 1,040,000 dots | Maximum continuous shooting rate: 8fps | Movies: 4K | User level: Expert

Polished handling

Fast autofocus

No touchscreen

Not much else

2. Olympus OM-D E-M10 II

The brilliant E-M10 II ticks boxes you probably didn’t even know about

Sensor size: Micro Four Thirds | Resolution: 16.1MP | Viewfinder: EVF | Monitor: 3.0-inch tilt-angle display, 1,037,000 dots | Maximum continuous shooting rate: 8.5fps | Movies: 1080p | User level: Beginner/intermediate

Compact size, lenses too

Excellent viewfinder

Smaller sensor than some

Pricier than original E-M10

3. Sony Alpha A7R II

Sony’s highest resolution full-framer is going down a storm

Sensor size: Full-frame | Resolution: 42.4MP | Viewfinder: EVF | Monitor: 3.0-inch tilt-angle display, 1,228,800 dots | Maximum continuous shooting rate:5fps | Movies: 4K | User level: Expert

Huge, high quality images

Excellent quality viewfinder

Needs a faster AF point settings

Tilting rather than vari-angle screen

4. Fuji X-T10

The X-T10 makes access to Fuji’s terrific X-mount system affordable

Sensor size: APS-C | Resolution: 16.3MP | Viewfinder: EVF | Monitor: 3.0-inch tilt-angle display, 920,800 dots | Maximum continuous shooting rate: 8fps | Movies: 1080p | User level: Beginner/intermediate

Excellent build and design

Value for money

High ISOs are JPEG only

Lacks X-T1’s weatherproofing

5. Fuji X-Pro2

Classic styling houses a stack of features aimed at the enthusiast photographer

Sensor size: APS-C | Resolution: 24.3MP | Viewfinder: EVF & Optical | Monitor:3.0-inch display, 1,620,000 dots | Maximum continuous shooting rate: 8fps | Maximum video resolution: 1080p | User level: Expert

Clever viewfinder

Very good detail and colour

Fixed rear display

EV dial easily knocked

see all the review here on Techradar

Got the camera get a course to learn how to use it, we recommend our Understanding Your DSLR course, ideal for this sort of camera

10 best compact cameras 2016

so you have decided that someone in your life needs a new camera and a compact is the one, this review from Techradar will help you decide

Compact cameras and the compact camera market have changed a lot over the last few years. Smart phones have decimated the entry-level range of point-and-shoot models that used to be popular and as a result manufacturers have concentrated on putting more advanced features into cameras to make them more attractive.

In addition to a move towards having physically larger sensors to boost image quality, some compact cameras now have lenses with long zoom ranges or wide apertures and there’s better control over exposure along with a much wider range of settings than in the past. Wi-Fi connectivity is also now de rigueur, so you can transfer shots quickly to a phone for sharing on Facebook etc.

Many enthusiast photographers used to be very sniffy about compact digital cameras, but there are now many that make a great alternative to a DSLR or mirrorless system camera.. And those who are new to photography and thinking about stepping up from a smartphone have some pretty sophisticated choices. There are small cameras that can slip in a pocket yet have huge zoom ranges, and large bridge cameras that look like DSLRs, but have a fixed lens and lots of automated easy-to-use options.

These cameras prove that you don’t have to buy a camera that takes interchangeable lenses to get great shots.

If you need a bit more help figuring out what kind of camera you need, then read this article: What camera should I buy?

Or if you already know what kind of camera you want, then check out our more specific compact camera guides:

• Best bridge camera
• Best travel camera
• Best cheap camera

1. Panasonic LX100

A compact masterpiece, with a big sensor, classic controls and a viewfinder

Sensor: Micro Four Thirds, 12.8MP | Lens: 24-75mm, f/1.7-2.8 | Monitor: 3-inch, 921,000 dots | Viewfinder: EVF | Continuous shooting: 11fps | Movies: 4K | User level: Intermediate/expert

Big sensor, small body

Traditional controls

Prone to lens flare

Modest resolution

2. Fuji X70

Great for those who want a larger than average sensor and traditional controls

Sensor: APS-C, 16.3MP | Lens: 28mm, f/2.8 | Monitor: 3.0-inch touchscreen, 1,040,000 dots | Viewfinder: No | Continuous shooting: 10fps | Movies: 1080p | User level: Expert

High quality APS-C format sensor

Traditional exposure controls

No viewfinder

Fixed focal length lens

3. Sony RX100 IV

Sony’s super-high speed sensor tech is brilliant but pricey

Sensor: 1-inch, 20MP | Lens: 24-80mm, f/1.8-2.8 | Monitor: 3-inch tilt-angle display, 1,228,800 dots | Viewfinder: EVF | Continuous shooting: 5.5fps | Movies: 4K | User level: Intermediate/expert

High-speed shooting and 4K

Compact design

The tech makes it expensive

Only a 3x zoom range

4. Panasonic TZ100 / SZ100

Panasonic’s premium travel camera has a larger sensor than the rest of the range

Sensor: 1-inch type, 20.1MP | Lens: 25-250mm, f/2.8-5.9 | Monitor: 3.0-inch touchscreen, 1,040,000 dots | Viewfinder: EVF | Continuous shooting: 10fps | Movies: 4K | User level: Beginner/Intermediate

1-inch type sensor

10x zoom range lens

Small electronic viewfinder

Fixed screen

see the rest of the review here

Bought the camera now get the course, our Beginners Photography course is perfect for someone with a compact camera

Best entry-level DSLR 2016

It is that time of year when knowing what to buy to get one of the best cameras for your purposes and budget becomes more focussed because of the short time before it gets wrapped and stored under a tree. This might help from Techradar

If you’ve outgrown your point-and-shoot camera and feel like you’re ready to take your photography to the next step, then an entry-level DSLR is the obvious choice. You might also want to consider a mirrorless camera as an alternative, although you won’t find one with a viewfinder at the same price as a DSLR.

If you are thinking about a mirrorless camera, then you might want to read this: Mirrorless vs DSLR cameras: 10 key differences. Or, if you’re not sure what kind of camera you need at all, then read our easy to follow guide to camera types: What camera should I buy?

DSLRs deliver a big step up in image quality from a compact camera, far more manual control and the ability to change lenses to tackle a huge variety of projects. Obviously, the more features you want, the more you’ll pay, but do you actually need them? Our top camera is one of the cheapest on the market, but still offers impressive performance and image quality, plus enough features to handle most assignments, especially if you’re still learning.

 

1. Nikon D3300

It’s not the most expensive entry-level DSLR, but we think it’s the best

Sensor: APS-C CMOS | Megapixels: 24.2MP | Lens mount: Nikon DX | Screen: 3-inch, 921,000 dots | Continuous shooting speed: 5fps | Max video resolution:1080p | User level: Beginner

Great image quality

Guide mode

Fixed screen

No built-in Wi-Fi

2. Canon EOS Rebel T6i / Canon EOS 750D

A compelling combination of top-notch ergonomics and a superb sensor

Sensor: APS-C CMOS | Megapixels: 24.2MP | Lens mount: Canon EF-S | Screen:3-inch articulating touchscreen, 1,040,000 dots | Continuous shooting speed:5fps | Max video resolution: 1080p | User level: Beginner/enthusiast

Terrific sensor

Wi-Fi with NFC

Average battery life

Only 95% viewfinder coverage

3. Nikon D5500

Choosing between Canon and Nikon is tougher than ever

Sensor: APS-C CMOS | Megapixels: 24.2MP | Lens mount: Nikon DX | Screen:3.2-inch articulating touchscreen, 1,040,000 dots | Continuous shooting speed:5fps | Max video resolution: 1080p | User level: Beginner/enthusiast

High-res, non-anti-aliased sensor

Touch-sensitive articulating screen

Slow live-view focussing

No GPS

4. Canon EOS Rebel T6s / Canon EOS 760D

Like the EOS 750D, but with better handling and a second LCD

Sensor: APS-C CMOS | Megapixels: 24.2MP | Lens mount: Canon EF-S | Screen:3-inch articulating touchscreen, 1,040,000 dots | Continuous shooting speed:5fps | Max video resolution: 1080p | User level: Beginner/enthusiast

Great touchscreen

Excellent sensor

AF point selection fiddly

Expensive

see the full list with additional information here

and remember the camera is nothing without knowing how to use it so head over to our courses and grab one now

New Canon Mirrorless Camera M5

There is a general move towards mirrorless cameras, these usually offer similar quality to full DSLR cameras but because they do not have optical viewfinders are much smaller and lighter. Sometimes they are referred to as CSC or compact system cameras although these often are more like compact cameras but with interchangeable lenses. The new Canon EOS M5 looks like a small DSLR, has interchangeable lenses and an EVF (electronic viewfinder). I have to say that the early EVFs left me cold, well worse I hated them. They looked like poor quality tv screens but the newer versions are so much better. This new camera will be competition for the Sony A7 range of which there are many different models, confusingly so.  The Sony is well established now and consider a serious camera so the new Canon M5 will have to offer more in some way.

Techradar has a review of this new camera and says good things, but as yet there is no direct comparison review with the Sony

Here is a chart that lists the specs

• APS-C CMOS sensor, 24.2MP
• ISO100-25,600
• Dual Pixel CMOS AF
• 7fps burst shooting
• 1080p video
• 3.2-inch touchscreen, 1,620,000 dots
• £1049 / $979 (body only) – AUS$ price to be confirmed

In conclusion

Those issues aside, the EOS M5 looks like Canon might have finally come good with a mirrorless camera. With the arrival of Dual Pixel CMOS AF, autofocus appears to be a huge improvement over previous models. Factor in the inclusion of a built-in EVF and touchscreen interface, along with a well thought out set of controls, and the EOS M5 looks like it could be a good option for experienced users. Whether that’s enough now that other brands have established themselves in the mirrorless camera sector remains to be seen.

Go here for the Techradar review

and here for the DPReview on the Canon EOSM5

The 10 best DSLRs you can buy right now

TechRadar are one of my favourite sites for getting  no nonsense reviews of cameras, this and DP Review are the best sites out there if you want to know all about a camera, lens or flash. So here they are again telling you what is the best on the market now.

For decades, the DSLR (digital SLR) has been the top choice for anyone who wants to take their photography to the next level. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, a DSLR offers three key ingredients: manual controls, excellent picture quality and interchangeable lenses.

Mirrorless cameras are another option of course. They’re smaller, mechanically simpler and, like DSLRs, they take interchangeable lenses. If you want to know more about how they compare, read this: Mirrorless vs DSLR cameras: 10 key differences. Or, if you want to know more about different camera types in general, check out our step-by-step guide: What camera should I buy?

A DSLR is still the cheapest way to get a camera with interchangeable lenses and a viewfinder (entry-level mirrorless cameras don’t have viewfinders) and, at the other end of the scale, almost all professional sports, press and wildlife photographers choose full-frame DSLRs over every other camera type.

In between are a whole range of digital SLRs aimed at different users, different levels of experience and different budgets. Here’s our pick of the standout DSLR cameras you can buy right now:

I have to admit I have a bias in this list. I bought a Canon 6D as my backup to my 5D and I love it. I love that it is lighter, it is as they say ‘old school’ and the quality it produces is just brilliant, but it only makes number 6 in their list

6. Canon EOS 6D

Full-frame on a budget – the 6D’s straightforward design has old-school appeal

Sensor: full frame, 20.2Mp | Lenses: Canon EF (not EF-S) | Monitor: 3-inch, 1,040K dots | Viewfinder: Optical | Continuous shooting: 4.5fps | Movies:1080p | User level: Expert

£1119.00VIEW AT WEX PHOTOGRAPHIC

£1119.00 view at Park Cameras

£1132.00 view at Jessops

See all prices (8 found)

Great value for a full frame camera

No fuss features

Basic autofocus system

Only 4.5fps continuous shooting

But don’t assume you need the latest tech to get a good camera. It’s tempting to chase the biggest numbers and newest gadgets when choosing a camera, but sometimes the simple things count for more. The EOS 6D is Canon’s cheapest full-frame DSLR, and compared to some of the other cameras around it, it’s a simple-minded old-school relic. But that full-frame sensor delivers a subtle quality and a sense of depth that you only get from a big sensor, and the no-fuss specs will appeal to quality-conscious photographers who like to keep things simple.

Read about all of their recommendations here

 

Six Photographers Each Have A Photo Session With The Same Man

This is an interesting exercise in understanding how photographers approach a shoot based on the information given. The preconceptions we all have about people based on what little we know, and how that effects the way we respond to that person both personally and photographically is the basis of this project. I have to say I am glad I wasn’t one of the photographers, I would have felt cheated and manipulated, but then again maybe that is what we as photographers do to our subjects, manipulate them to fit our idea of who they should be.

When six photographers are tasked with taking portraits of the same man, the results are astonishing. Here’s the twist: each photographer is told a different (fake) personal history of the man. As portrait photographers, it’s their goal to portray this man, as they see him, in a single photograph. Though he comes to each photo session dressed exactly the same, carries himself the same way, and speaks with each photographer in the same manner, the photographers treat him differently and photograph him completely differently depending on the background story.
Read more here

Sticking with a traditional dslr or going for a mirrorless camers

You know this is a question that keeps cropping up because we hate the weight and bulkiness of our gear. I am currently in Thailand soon moving on to Myanmar and then Vietnam and the weight of my gear has already put me in pain. So I understand, I really do, the gear is a pain. But then when I look at a csc or mirrorless camera I am so underwhelmed. I do get to see them, people bring them to class so this is not an ill informed view but they just don’t do what a REAL camera does. Maybe if you have never owned a dslr you would not be disappointed but if you have you should seriously spend some time with one of these Johnny Come Lateleys to the game before deciding to ditch your old system. Find a camera shop, if you can, T4 Cameras in Witney are the last in Oxfordshire and really do more than just hold it, put it to you eye, see how it feels.

Anyway enough of my bias, here is a very good article on Digital Camera World that puts two of the heavy-weights against each other

There are highly attractive ‘all-rounders’ in both camps: cameras that don’t go overboard on megapixel count, yet aim to take everything from portraiture to landscape photography in their stride.

Two of our current favourites are the Canon 5D Mk III SLR, and the mirrorless Sony A7 II from Sony’s ‘ILC’ (interchangeable-lens camera) stable.

A major factor in choosing any ‘system’ camera is the depth and breadth of the system itself. You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to lenses and other accessories for the long-established line of Canon SLRs.

Sony’s mirrorless cameras are a much newer proposition, especially when it comes to full-frame models, but the range of compatible E-mount lenses has grown over the last couple of years, and an adaptor is also available for fitting A-mount lenses.

READ MORE HERE

10 best full frame DSLRs 2015:

Full frame is where you go when you want the best quality out of a dslr camera, it isn’t a cheap option but as well as quality you get the best shallow depth of field and always a professional build quality. Can I just say I love my Canon 6D

Tech Radar does the honours again

Most professional photographers swear by full-frame DSLRs. They’re larger and heavier than APS-C-format models, but are built to survive daily abuse.

What’s more, with the same megapixel count, a full-frame sensor will have much larger photosites (pixels) than an APS-C chip because it has roughly twice the sensor area. Result? Better image quality at higher ISO sensitivities.

Full-frame DSLRs aren’t just for pros though, as lower-cost versions are out there if you want great image quality on a tighter budget. But it’s worth remembering that you’ll still need full-frame-compatible lenses, and these rarely come cheap.

Canon EOS 5DS

Proof that more can mean better: the 5DS sets a new standard for DSLR photography

Sensor: 36 x 24mm CMOS | Megapixels: 50.6 | Autofocus: 61-point AF, 41 cross-type | Screen type: 3.2-inch, 1,040,000 dots | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 5fps | Maximum video resolution: 1080p | User level: Expert

£2889.99

Stunningly detailed images

Great AF, metering and white balance

Huge file sizes

No Wi-Fi

With 50.6 million effective pixels, the 5DS is by far the highest resolution full-frame DSLR on the market. The same goes for the 5DS R, which is identical to the 5DS, but features an anti-aliasing cancelation filter over the sensor to help resolve a little more detail. Pixel-packed sensors can be compromised, but not here. Image quality is superb, with fantastic detail, well controlled noise and good dynamic range. The 5DS is now the benchmark for full-frame image quality, but it’s not quite perfect. There’s no Wi-Fi or Ultra HD video recording, and huge image file sizes necessitate decent memory cards and a fast computer.

Nikon D810

It may have recently been ousted from the top spot, but this is still a terrific choice

Sensor: 35.9 x 24.0mm CMOS | Megapixels: 36.3 | Autofocus: 51-point AF, 15 cross-type | Screen type: 3.2-inch, 1,228,800 dots | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 5fps | Maximum video resolution: 1080p | User level: Expert

£2349.00 

AA-filterless, high-res sensor

5fps continuous shooting

No built-in Wi-Fi

Large file sizes

Ok, so the 5DS has stolen some of the D810’s thunder, but not much. Images from Nikon’s megapixel monster are bursting with detail, whilst its 1200-shot battery life puts the 5DS in the shade. We’re also fans of the D810’s clarity micro-contrast adjustment with its video-friendly Flat mode for maximum dynamic range. The 51-point AF system copes well with tricky focussing situations, mainly because both the AF and metering systems are taken from the range-topping Nikon D4S. Relatively compact dimensions and the unusual (at this level) inclusion of a pop-up flash further ensure that the D810 doesn’t disappoint.

8. Canon EOS 6D

Canon’s most affordable full-frame DSLR punches above its weight

Sensor: 36 x 24mm CMOS | Megapixels: 20.2 | Autofocus: 11-point AF, 1 cross-type | Screen type: 3-inch, 1,040,000 dots | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 4.5fps | Maximum video resolution: 1080p | User level:Enthusiast/expert

£1142.00 VIEW AT JOHN LEWIS

Comprehensive controls

High image quality

No flash

97% viewfinder coverage

The 6D is Canon’s answer to the D610 and is the least expensive model in the company’s full-frame DSLR range. Its 20.2-megapixel sensor may sound outclassed, but there are hidden depths. Image quality is superb and photos impress with a three-dimensional feel that’s the result of the larger sensor’s ability to create shallow depth of field effects. However, the 6D’s real trump card is price. It’s one of the cheapest routes to a new full-frame DSLR, and though its autofocus system and continuous shooting speed are nothing special, you do get integrated Wi-Fi and GPS. If you can do without a built-in flash, the 6D is decent value.

Nikon D4S

Nikon’s professional workhorse keeps shooting where lesser cameras struggle

Sensor: 35.9 x 24.0mm CMOS | Megapixels: 16.2 | Autofocus: 51-point AF, 15 cross-type | Screen type: 3.2-inch, 921,000 dots | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 11fps | Maximum video resolution: 1080p | User level: Expert

£3999.99

11fps continuous shooting

Massive ISO range

Big and heavy

No built-in Wi-Fi or GPS

Where the Canon 5DS and Nikon D810 push detail boundaries, the D4S is built for speed. 16.2 megapixels doesn’t sound great, but it enables rapid 11fps continuous shooting and exceptional low light performance. This is one of the few aspects where the D4S improves on the preceding D4, as its ISO range now stretches to 409,600 in expanded sensitivity, making this a real ‘see in the dark’ camera. Also helping to justify the intimidating price tag is the outstanding 51-point autofocus system that excels when shooting fast moving and dimly lit subjects, whilst top-notch engineering and weatherproofing help compensate for the sheer bulk.

6. Canon EOS 1D X

Uncompromising build, ergonomics and shooting speed make this top pro pick

Sensor: 36 x 24mm CMOS | Megapixels: 18.1 | Autofocus: 61-point AF, 41 cross-type | Screen type: 3.2-inch, 1,040,000 dots | Maximum continuous shooting speed: 12fps | Maximum video resolution: 1080p | User level: Expert

£3780.00

Superb AF

Excellent noise control

Heavy

No in-camera HDR

Choosing between the 1D X and Nikon D4S will most likely depend on which manufacturer you’re already tied to with your lens system, but the two cameras are otherwise closely matched. The 1D X is an amalgamation of the older 1D and 1Ds models, blending their two specialities of speed and resolution. But speed is the real selling point here, thanks to a 12fps burst mode which can be expanded to 14fps in the Super High Speed Shooting Mode. The 18.1MP full-frame sensor sounds a step backwards from the 21.1MP chip inside the old 1Ds Mark III, but Canon has opted to sacrifice resolution to improve high ISO image quality.

Read the full article here

 

8 best mid-range DSLRs of 2015

OK here is Tech Radars best 8 mid range DSLR cameras, of course you will disagree with their list but that is the point of lists in blogs

Mid-range DSLRs offer more power, robustness and control than typical entry-level models. They’re great for shooting tricky subjects like sports or wildlife, thanks to having faster continuous shooting rates and superior autofocus systems. Many also add weatherproofing for extra robustness and peace of mind.

Although mid-range DSLRs don’t tend to offer more megapixels, you’ll often get an increased ISO sensitivity range to help with low light shooting. But just because these cameras are intended for enthusiasts that doesn’t make them intimidating.

Additional controls can actually improve their ease of use as you learn more about photography, yet they still include an automatic mode that’ll take care of everything for you.

1. Canon EOS 7D Mark II

Canon’s top APS-C-format DSLR may be pricey, but it doesn’t disappoint

Sensor: APS-C CMOS | Megapixels: 20.2 | Lens mount: Canon EF-S | Screen: 3-inch, 1,040,000 dots | Continuous shooting speed: 10fps | Max video resolution: 1080p | User level: Enthusiast/expert

£374.00 

Fast continuous shooting

Excellent ergonomics

Relatively expensive

No touchscreen or Wi-Fi

Canon fans had to wait a long time for the 7D Mark II, and though the original 7D was ahead of its time, its replacement is a big step forward in every way. Its 65-point autofocus system (all cross type) is state-of-the-art and copes well with moving subjects, plus you get quality weatherproofing that’s almost a match for the pro-level EOS-1DX. A new 150,000-pixel RGB and infrared exposure metering sensor helps produce accurately-exposed images with well-controlled noise levels, attractive colours and impressive detail. Unfortunately, all this tech doesn’t come cheap, but the 7D Mark II is well worth the money.

2. Nikon D7200

More of an upgrade than a new camera, but a very good one

Sensor: APS-C CMOS | Megapixels: 24.2 | Lens mount: Nikon DX | Screen: 3.2-inch, 1,229,000 dots | Continuous shooting speed: 6fps | Max video resolution:1080p | User level: Enthusiast/expert

£809.00 

Built-in Wi-Fi

Very sturdy

Fixed screen, not touch-sensitive

Highest sensitivity setting JPEG-only

For every Canon DSLR, Nikon usually has a rival camera, and the D7200 is its response to the EOS 7D Mark II. It may not be a complete overhaul of the D7100 it replaces, but there are enough tweaks to give it a distinct edge. Images from the 24.2-megapixel AA-filterless sensor are detailed and vibrant, and though the pixel count remains almost identical, you can now shoot more images continuously thanks to Nikon’s more powerful Expeed 4 processor. Unlike the 7D Mark II, the D7200 also boasts Wi-Fi with NFC pairing, and its superb 1100-shot battery life thrashes the Canon’s 670-shot rating.

Best Entry Level DSLR Cameras 2015

Autumn is a good time to do a recap of the best cameras in each range. Tech Radar is a very well respected site and here is their take on affordable dslr cameras

DSLRs deliver a big step up in image quality from a compact camera, far more manual control and the ability to change lenses to tackle a huge variety of projects. It’s easy to blow big bucks on a DSLR, but entry-level models can often be had for little more than a premium compact camera. Obviously, the more features you want, the more you’ll pay, but do you actually need them? Our top camera is one of the cheapest on the market, but still offers impressive performance and image quality, plus enough features to handle most shoots, especially if you’re still learning.

This article covers the cheapest Canon 1200D up to something most people would consider mid range Canon 750D or Nikon £550 Read the reviews of ten of the best here

7. Canon EOS 1200D (Rebel T5)

Canon’s cheapest DSLR faces stiff competition

Sensor: APS-C CMOS | Megapixels: 18 | Lens mount: Canon EF-S | Screen: 3-inch fixed, 460,000 dots | Continuous shooting speed: 3fps | Max video resolution: 1080p | User level: Beginner

£231.99 

Low price

Good image quality

Slow live view focussing

No touchscreen or Wi-Fi

The 700D is currently a bargain, but the EOS 1200D is cheaper still. Nikon currently boasts some terrific budget DSLRs, and the 1200D is Canon’s response. It’s the cheapest way to buy into a new Canon DSLR system, but the 1200D is slightly more cheap than cheerful. Its 18MP sensor is getting on a bit and while still good, it can’t match the 24.2MP device in the Nikon D3300. The 1200D’s 3fps continuous shooting speed is also leisurely compared to the Nikon’s 5fps rate, and where that camera includes built-in help guides, you’ll have to resort to downloading Canon’s versions through a separate smartphone app. But for Canon fans, the 1200D is a still an effective camera at a reasonable price.

4. Nikon D5500

Choosing between Canon and Nikon is tougher than ever

Sensor: APS-C CMOS | Megapixels: 24.2 | Lens mount: Nikon DX | Screen: 3.2-inch articulating touch-screen, 1,040,000 dots | Continuous shooting speed:5fps | Max video resolution: 1080p | User level: Beginner/enthusiast

£499.00 

High-res, non-anti-aliased sensor

Touch-sensitive articulating screen

Slow live-view focussing

No GPS

The D5500 competes directly with Canon’s 750D at the upper end of the entry-level DSLR market. Where Nikon’s D3000-series cameras are designed as cost-conscious introductory DSLRs, the D5000-series is preferable if you want to get more creative. This latest addition to the series is bang up-to-date and is the first Nikon DSLR to get touch-screen control, plus there’s also built-in Wi-Fi – but it’s a pity GPS hasn?’t been carried over from the D5300, and live view autofocusing speed is no faster. There isn’t much wrong with the D5500’s 24.2-megapixel, non-anti-aliased sensor, though. It may be pinched from the older D5300, but it still delivers excellent image quality.

See the top ten here