With a smartphone in your pocket, everyone is a photographer. The latest iPhone, Galaxy, and Pixel handsets capture images that turn heads and rack up social media likes, but there’s a limit to what they can do. If you’re interested in trying new photo techniques, it’s time to think about a camera with interchangeable lens support. Whether it’s for capturing distant wildlife, trying your hand at long exposure landscapes and night sky astrophotography, or delving into the tiny world of macro, a dedicated camera offers big benefits over your phone, and you don’t need to spend a ton of money on one.
Read on for our top picks, followed by a few points to consider when shopping.
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Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
Panasonic Lumix DC-S5
Best for Video and Vlogs
Why We Picked It
The Panasonic Lumix DC-S5 is one of our favorite full-frame cameras and a good option for creators who want to try a larger-format camera. This one does 24MP photos, has a 96MP multi-shot option for landscapes and other still scenes, and outputs sharp 4K video. The sensor is stabilized and the autofocus system is fast enough for 6fps bursts with subject tracking.
Who It’s For
If you want to try a full-frame camera, the S5 is a compelling entry point. We like its 20-60mm kit lens, which covers an extra-wide view for vlogs and landscapes, and you can expand your creative options with plenty of other affordable L-mount options from Panasonic and Sigma. The 6fps drive is a little slow, so think about a fast APS-C model like the Canon R10 if you care more about burst rate than bokeh.
PROS
- Excellent 24MP full-frame sensor
- 5-axis IBIS
- Improved DFD focus system
- 10-bit 4K60 video
- 5.9K ProRes Raw with Ninja V
- Dust and splash protection
- Superb ergonomics
- Dual SDXC card slots
CONS
- L-mount lens library still growing
- Tracking focus limited to 6fps
Canon EOS R10
Best Autofocus System
Why We Picked It
The Canon EOS R10 brings the company’s beloved Rebel series into the mirrorless age. In addition to featuring the comfortable controls and interface that make Canon a household brand, this camera offers solid picture quality and fantastic autofocus. Beginners should appreciate just how fast and accurate the R10 is at finding subjects, while creature comforts like a built-in flash are handy too.
Who It’s For
The EOS R10 is a real crowd-pleasing, generalist camera. It’s fast enough to use for action shots with its 15fps shutter, while its autofocus system reliably locks onto people, pets, cars, and other subjects without any hand-holding. The mirrorless mount means that you can use it with Canon’s newest RF series lenses, and a traditional design makes it as comfortable as an SLR.
PROS
- Superb subject recognition and autofocus
- 15fps mechanical and 23fps electronic shutter
- Solid ergonomics and control layout
- Articulating display
- Built-in flash
- 4K60 video in SDR or HDR
- Already works with more lenses than any EOS M body
- Supports Canon SLR lenses via an adapter
CONS
- Image sensor isn’t stabilized
- 8-bit SDR video doesn’t have flat profile
- Basic CMOS sensor doesn’t match up with BSI chips
- So-so battery life
Canon EOS RP
Best Affordable Full-Frame Model
Why We Picked It
The Canon EOS RP is among the most affordable full-frame models and we like the healthy library of lower-cost RF lenses available to it. The 28MP sensor doesn’t have stabilization, but it outputs attractive photos and up to 4K video. We particularly like how light and easy this camera is to carry around, while a front-facing LCD makes selfies easy.
Who It’s For
Creators who want a starter camera from a familiar brand are sure to come across the EOS RP at some point during their search. And many won’t need to look any further. The price limits some features, however. For instance, the meager 3fps tracking rate won’t cut it for action photographers, and the 4K video crop limits your wide-angle video possibilities. Look to the recently announced EOS R8 if you want a full-frame model that’s a bit more capable.
PROS
- Compact body with full-frame sensor.
- Vari-angle LCD.
- Integrated EVF.
- Quick, accurate autofocus.
- Macro stacking and time-lapse tools.
- Wi-Fi.
- Attractive price.
CONS
- Small EVF.
- Low-cost native lenses not available yet.
- Inconsistent face and eye detection.
- 4K video suffers from heavy crop.
- Sensor shows limited dynamic range.
- Small battery.
- No built-in flash.
Fujifilm X-S10
Best for Stabilized Sensor
Why We Picked It
The Fujifilm X-S10 is a good pick for creators who want to take advantage of the Fuji Film Simulation filters or an excellent 5-axis stabilized sensor. It works with the full library of Fuji X lenses and a growing number of third-party options. You also get a solid autofocus system, support for 4K30 video, and an in-body flash.
Who It’s For
Consider the X-S10 if you want a stabilized platform to try out Fuji’s lens and imaging system. It’s versatile enough for family photographers who enjoy taking snapshots, shutterbugs with a new hobby, and vloggers who want to launch a YouTube channel.
PROS
- Proven 26MP sensor
- 5-axis IBIS
- In-camera film looks for creatives
- Front-facing display
- Fast, reliable autofocus
CONS
- Omits weather sealing
- Single UHS-I memory card slot
- Cramped top controls
- Underwhelming battery life
Nikon Z 5
Best Full-Frame Option With Weather Protection
Why We Picked It
The Nikon Z 5 is a good choice for photographers who want to start out with a full-frame camera and care about durability. This one’s build quality is nearly on par with the midrange Z 6 II; it has a magnesium alloy chassis, weather sealing, and dual memory card slots. It produces high-quality 24MP photos and pairs well with a slim 24-50mm starter zoom, though the maximum 4.5fps burst rate limits its utility for action scenarios.
Who It’s For
This camera is more than capable for general photography and outdoor excursions. It includes an automatic mode for beginners, though the dual card slots and manual control options give you room to grow.
PROS
- 24MP full-frame sensor
- 5-axis IBIS
- Tilting touch LCD
- High-magnification OLED EVF
- Dust and splash protection
- Dual UHS-II card slots
- Works with Nikon F lenses via adapter
CONS
- Cropped 4K recording
- Autofocus a step behind Canon and Sony
- Meager 4.5fps continuous drive
- Z lens library still in development
- Few third-party Z lenses available
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7
Best for Budget-Conscious Photographers
Why We Picked It
The Panasonic Lumix G7 is our budget-friendly choice for beginners. It’s an older model, but it still offers a stabilized 16MP sensor, 4K video capabilities, and compatibility with Micro Four Thirds lenses.
Who It’s For
If you want an affordable, dependable mirrorless camera, the G7 is the one for you. It might not have the latest anything, but it still focuses quickly and delivers high-quality pictures and videos. There are loads of lenses available too, so anyone upgrading from a smartphone gets many more creative options.
PROS
- 4K video.
- Built-in EVF.
- Vari-angle touch LCD.
- Dual control dials.
- Speedy performance.
- 4K Photo and Post Focus modes.
- Built-in flash.
CONS
- Tracking focus slows burst rate.
- Not available as a body only.
- Plastic build.
Sony a6100
Best Selection of Lenses
Why We Picked It
The a6100 is the most affordable camera that takes Sony E-mount lenses. That’s a major benefit because the mount’s robust third-party support and a long time in the market mean there are a wealth of low-cost options available. The a6100 is no slouch either. It supports tracking focus with face and eye detection for people, can take photos at 11fps, and records 4K30 video.
Who It’s For
Cost-conscience buyers who want to get into the Sony system should look at the a6100. The camera is easy to carry, with a corner-position viewfinder that matches up well with small and medium-sized lenses. That said, photographers who are a bit more rough-and-tumble with gear might want to step up to the a6400 because it has a more durable magnesium body (as well as a bigger, sharper viewfinder).
PROS
- Light and compact.
- Built-in EVF.
- Tilting touch LCD.
- Superlative autofocus.
- Loads of lens choices.
- Up to 11fps Raw capture.
- 4K video.
CONS
- Not as well-built as the a6400.
- Low-resolution EVF.
- 4K video can show some wobble.
- Underwhelming battery life.
- Charging port isn’t USB-C.
Canon EOS Rebel SL3
Best Small SLR for Optical Viewfinder Fans
Why We Picked It
SLRs have largely fallen to the wayside, but you might still prefer a model with an optical viewfinder. The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 is a pretty good starting point because it works with a huge library of first- and third-party lenses, as well as snaps attractive 24MP photos. On the video front, it focuses as well as mirrorless models, though you should stick with the 1080p recording options.
Who It’s For
If you crave an optical viewfinder, the SL3 is a sensible beginner model. It even includes an easy-to-use full auto mode and a built-in flash. Its small size makes it very travel-friendly, while selfie fans should enjoy the front-facing LCD and responsive live-view focus.
PROS
- Compact.
- Vari-angle touch LCD.
- 1080p video with good autofocus.
- External mic support.
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
CONS
- 4K video shows heavy crop and choppy focus.
- Autofocus struggles with action.
- Not as capable as mirrorless alternatives.
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
Best Micro Four Thirds Starter Camera Overall
Why We Picked It
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV uses Micro Four Thirds lenses and offers fresher tech than the Panasonic G7. You get a stabilized 20MP sensor in a stylish body, plus support for 4K video. We’re not fans of the forward-facing LCD that awkwardly goes underneath the camera for selfies, but that won’t bug everyone.
Who It’s For
This is a good starter camera for fashionable fans of retro tech, especially if you opt for the two-tone silver and black finish. From a practical standpoint, the E-M10 is easy to use, includes a built-in flash, and offers a ton of in-camera filters that can make your pictures and videos stand out.
PROS
- 20MP Micro Four Thirds imaging
- 4K video
- 5-axis sensor stabilization
- 8.7fps continuous drive
- Built-in flash
- Many lenses available
- In-camera USB charging
- Slim, stylish body
CONS
- Flip-under selfie screen not ideal for video
- Contrast focus not ideal for action photography
- Slower 5fps burst shooting with autofocus
- Doesn’t support add-on microphones
Sony ZV-E10
Best In-Camera Mic for Vlogs
Why We Picked It
Although the Sony ZV-E10 mirrorless camera is good for stills, it should appeal most to vloggers. Its front-facing screen is ideal for self-recorded videos, while YouTube-friendly features like the Product Showcase focus mode and Face Priority metering help you create better content. We especially like the Background Defocus button, which makes it easy to swap between blurry or in-focus backdrops with a single press. The built-in stereo mic captures great audio, too.
Who It’s For
Aspiring influencers chasing a more capable video camera than a smartphone don’t need to look much further than the ZV-E10. It works with a huge swath of E-mount lenses, including a few purpose-built vlogging lenses.
PROS
- Excellent 4K video at 24 or 30fps
- Best-in-class autofocus
- Bright, front-facing LCD
- Clear in-camera microphone
- Supports add-on mic and headphone monitoring
- Works as a USB webcam
CONS
- Battery drains quickly
- Digital stabilization adds crop to video
- Limited touch controls
- In-camera charging slow for on-the-go use
- Slow-motion limited to 1080p
- No 4K60 recording
Buying Guide: The Best Mirrorless and SLR Cameras for Beginners in 2023
Most Beginners Shouldn’t Buy an SLR
There’s a better-than-average chance that you’re reading this after searching for recommendations on SLRs for beginners. And here’s what we have to say about that: Most beginners shouldn’t buy SLRs. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get a camera that supports swappable lenses, it means you’re better off starting with a mirrorless model with an EVF, not an SLR with an optical viewfinder.
Canon EOS R10
(Credit: Jim Fisher)
Technology has moved beyond the scope of the optical viewfinder. A decade ago the best cameras were all SLRs; today, they are mirrorless. The idea is the same—a large image sensor, interchangeable lenses, and a direct view through the lens—but now the image sensor creates the view and shows it on a rear screen or eye-level electronic viewfinder.
There are palpable advantages for beginners. For one, you get a preview of your exposure in the EVF, freeing you to experiment with manual exposure modes and see feedback in real time. Autofocus coverage typically extends much farther, so you get more freedom to position a subject in the frame.
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The creative side is there, too. If you’re thinking about making photos in black and white, you can set a mirrorless camera to preview your scenes in monochrome. The same is true for any color looks you want to apply—almost every camera offers vivid and neutral modes, but others extend them to more artistic looks.
Canon EOS SL3
(Credit: Zlata Ivleva)
All that said, we’ve included an SLR in our recommendation list for folks who strictly prefer an optical viewfinder. They’re worth thinking about if your eyes don’t deal well with digital displays, but you’re definitely missing out on the more modern trappings of a mirrorless camera.
Which Mirrorless Camera Is Best for Beginners?
When you buy an interchangeable lens camera, you’re not just buying the camera. The system you choose dictates what lenses you can use.
That’s not a big deal if you’re just starting out—you most likely can get your camera of choice with a bundled zoom, and expand your kit with any number of telephoto, wide aperture prime, or macro lenses.
Sony a6100
(Credit: Jim Fisher)
If you think you’re going to move to higher-end equipment down the road, take a little more into consideration. The Fujifilm X, Micro Four Thirds, and Sony E offer the widest range of lenses. Canon EOS R and Nikon Z don’t have quite as many options but cover more than the basics. We don’t recommend buying a Canon EOS M camera at this time as the system never took off and Canon has moved on to its EOS R lineup.
For more detail on what every camera system offers, check out our guide to choosing a system.
Is Full-Frame Good for Beginners?
Most cameras that brands market toward budding photographers use image sensors that are smaller than the 35mm film models of yesteryear. Those more compact bodies tend to be very affordable, but there are some real reasons to consider a full-frame camera, even if you’re starting out.
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Nikon Z 5
(Credit: Jim Fisher)
I recommend them to photographers whose main interests lie in portraiture, landscapes, and other more artistic pursuits. They should also be the tool of choice for those who love the blurred-background bokeh look.
They’re also a good choice if you’re interested in trying out old, manual-focus lenses, to give your images a bit of a vintage feel.
We’ve included a couple of full-frame picks here. The Canon EOS RP is built for beginners and is often available for around $1,300 with the basic 24-105mm kit lens. The Nikon Z 5 is a bit pricier, $1,700 with a short 24-50mm zoom, but has better build quality.
If you’re still mulling over a camera and want to get the best shots out of your phone, check out our tips for getting better photos with your smartphone, or our advice for beginning photographers working with phones and cameras alike.
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