The 8 Best Cameras - Summer 2024 Reviews

The Canon EOS R6 Mark II is the best full-frame mirrorless camera we've tested. This enthusiast-level model can do pretty much everything you need, whether it's high-quality stills or advanced video work. It improves upon the original Canon EOS R6 with a higher-resolution sensor, faster burst shooting, better heat management, and improved video features, including uncropped 4k recording at up to 60 fps—all that in a highly ergonomic, weather-sealed body with an intuitive user interface and controls.

The only real downside of the R6 Mark II is that Canon is still building out its RF lens lineup, so there are fewer native and third-party options to choose from, but that's slowly changing. You can also adapt older EF lenses without issue if you get an adapter. If you're looking for a camera with a more established lens ecosystem, the Sony α7 IV is right up there with the Canon for image quality and versatility. However, it has a slower max burst rate when shooting uncompressed RAW files, and it only shoots 4k 60 fps video in crop mode. You can't go wrong with either of these cameras, but we prefer the Canon for those reasons.

If you'd like a more capable videography and filmmaking camera, the Panasonic LUMIX S5 II is an excellent full-frame option with some seriously impressive video specs. These include a wide array of recording formats and resolutions, with oversampled 4k recording at up to 60 fps and open gate 6k recording at up to 30 fps. It also supports V-Log recording and internal 10-bit 4:2:2 color—all at a remarkably competitive price for what you get. Unlike the original Panasonic LUMIX S5, the S5 II also has phase-detection autofocus, making it that much better for those who prefer AF to manually pulling focus.

If you need even more advanced features, like external RAW video output and Apple ProRes support, you can opt for the Panasonic LUMIX S5 IIX variant. Alternatively, the Fujifilm X-H2S is a video powerhouse with internal ProRes codecs, external RAW video output, and a stacked sensor that keeps rolling shutter distortion to a minimum. However, it's significantly pricier than the LUMIX S5 II.

If you prefer the portability of an APS-C sensor, the Fujifilm X-T5 is one of the best crop sensor cameras we've tested. Its dedicated exposure dials evoke the feel and handling of classic SLR cameras and make it easy to adjust settings on the go, which is great for street photography. The camera's also weather-sealed, with in-body image stabilization to help you shoot more stable handheld shots at slower shutter speeds and a versatile three-way tilting screen.

However, this camera's real selling point is its 40.2-megapixel sensor—the highest resolution APS-C sensor on the market—which captures incredibly detailed images with plenty of leeway to crop and edit. Film simulation profiles also make it easy to change the look of your images in-camera, and this model boasts some impressive video specs, to boot. Overall, this is an excellent choice if you're looking for something cheaper and more portable than the Canon EOS R6 Mark II. Pros and hybrid shooters should also consider the Fujifilm X-H2, which uses the exact same sensor but adds a CFexpress card slot, 8k video capability, and internal ProRes codecs. However, it's pricier and bulkier.

The Sony α6700 is one of the best all-around mid-range cameras. This hybrid model is part of Sony's E-mount ecosystem, which includes a wide range of native and third-party lens options. The camera's relatively portable body makes it easy to take wherever you go, and its built-in stabilization makes it a good option for video work and handheld shooting. Plus, it has one of the best autofocus systems on the market, great for fast subjects like wildlife and sports, and it's one of the few cameras in its class that can capture 4k video at 120 fps.

The Fujifilm X-S20 is another great option at this price point. It has a few features that the Sony lacks, like 6.2k recording and external RAW video output, but its AF system isn't quite as reliable, and 4k recording maxes out at 60 fps. Ergonomically, some people may prefer its centered viewfinder over the offset EVF on the α6700, but that comes down to personal preference.

The Canon EOS R10 is one of the best entry-level cameras we've tested, offering a ton of value for its price. Though it lacks some of the high-end features found on the Sony α6700, like in-body image stabilization (IBIS) and weather-sealing, it's a very well-rounded camera. Its APS-C sensor captures excellent image quality for its class, and the camera has a highly effective autofocus system and quick burst shooting. All that, plus a highly accessible user interface and controls, make it one of the best mirrorless cameras for beginners.

Though its video features are somewhat limited, with heavily cropped 4k 60 fps recording and significant rolling shutter distortion, it still offers a wide range of frame rate options and can even record 10-bit 4:2:2 video internally in its HDR PQ mode. Overall, it's a bit more accessible than the similarly priced Fujifilm X-S10. However, if you need IBIS, the X-S10 is a great alternative that still holds its own and has the added benefit of a more established lens lineup to choose from. However, its autofocus is much less reliable than that of the R10.

If you're on a tighter budget, the Canon EOS R50 is the best budget mirrorless camera you can buy brand new. As Canon's most affordable camera, this small but mighty APS-C option is a great choice for beginners thanks to its highly intuitive controls and a comprehensive auto mode that can help you get a feel for the basics of photography. And since it's part of the same RF mount system as high-end full-frame Canons like the Canon EOS R6 Mark II, there's an easy upgrade path if you eventually want to move up to a full-frame body.

With 4k video recording at up to 30 fps, it's a solid vlogging cam, too. If, however, you're looking for an even more compact system with more lens options, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a great alternative and even includes IBIS for steadier handheld shooting. Just be aware that its autofocus system is much less reliable than the autofocus on the R50.

"Cheap cameras" is almost an oxymoron. It's hard to come by a good camera for truly cheap unless you start looking at used models, which is a valid option for those on a tight budget. Still, the Canon EOS Rebel T7/2000D is one of the best cheap and budget cameras you can still buy brand new. This no-frills DSLR is as basic as interchangeable-lens cameras come, but it has a high-resolution sensor and a well-established lens ecosystem with a wide range of lens options to suit different budgets and styles of photography.

While you can't record 4k video and don't even get a tilting screen, the camera feels good in the hand and has a long battery life, allowing you to get out and practice shooting day after day. Its autofocus is much more rudimentary than mirrorless models like the Canon EOS R50, but it's serviceable for anyone who's just getting started. Ultimately, this is a great place to start if you're on a very tight budget and looking for your first camera.

While we've covered a range of interchangeable-lens models so far, premium fixed-lens compact cameras have become increasingly popular again for those who want a high-end, everyday carry camera without the fuss or bulk of interchangeable lenses. That's where the Fujifilm X100VI comes in. It's expensive and hard to find in stock, but if you get your hands on one, this is one of the most full-featured fixed-lens cameras on the market.

With the same high-resolution APS-C sensor found in the Fujifilm X-T5 above, a hybrid optical/electronic viewfinder, advanced video recording specs, and even IBIS, there isn't a whole lot that Fujifilm didn't pack into the X100VI's relatively compact body. On top of that, its 35mm equivalent prime lens has excellent image rendering and a bright f/2 aperture to give you some more leeway in low light. While the hype over this camera may have gotten a little out of hand, we can't deny that it's earned.