The best SLR cameras of the year. The best mirrorless cameras

The issue of high-quality photography has become of interest to even more people, there are more and more photography professionals. We offer to consider the most advanced cameras of 2016, in terms of photo quality.

10th place. SLR camera, NikonD5500 Kit 2015. The price of this model is 55 thousand rubles. This model has significantly surpassed its predecessors, the battery capacity has been increased to 800 frames. High ISO does not affect the quality of pictures, and shooting video conveys reality as much as possible due to Full HD quality. An excellent camera for the money, giving the expected shots.

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9th place. Camera - Nikon D7100 Kit, has favorable parameters, respectively, low weight and comfortable grip. For its 65 thousand rubles, the camera gives high-quality pictures, due to the large color range and light viewfinder. The disadvantage of the camera is a small buffer volume, due to the large 24 MP matrix, it is worth buying good lenses to fully unlock the potential of the camera.

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8th place. Professionals and amateurs of shooting Live View will be the actual camera - Canon EOS 70D Kit, worth 72 thousand rubles. The good result of shooting with this camera lies in the excellent autofocus and the new sensor. Reportage shooting is possible - 7 frames per second. A big plus is the compatibility of the Canon EOS 70D Kit with optics from other manufacturers. For everyday work, this is a great option.

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7th place. The camera's discreet weight and small size make the Canon EOS 700D Kit a great option for frequent shooting. Good autofocus and a matrix are responsible for the quality of the pictures. A weak buffer will prevent you from getting a large number of pictures in RAW format. You can purchase the camera for 44 thousand rubles.

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6th place. If you are new to photography, you will find it easier to work with the Nikon D3200 Kit, which has detailed instructions for operation. A very convenient camera to use, due to the placement of all buttons under the thumb and the small size of the device itself. Image quality is on par with higher-end models, but the downside is the low-capacity battery. But for 27 thousand rubles - this is an excellent choice.

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The 5th place in the ranking of inexpensive SLR cameras is occupied by the Nikon D5300 Kit camera. This model is perfect for amateur photography. Fast but uncorrectable focusing, low-noise sensor and 2 frames per second capability, characteristics that are quite suitable for daily shooting. The downside is the poor performance of Live View and GPS detection. But for fans, the Nikon D5300 camera for 43 thousand rubles is quite successful.

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4th place. A great option for a semi-professional is the Nikon D5200 Kit. For the price of 36 thousand rubles, you get a camera with the ability to fine-tune the white balance, shooting at ISO 3200, without noise. If you wish, you can buy more lenses and unleash the full power of the camera. The disadvantage is a small battery, the charge is enough for a day.

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3rd place. Canon EOS 1200 Kit allows you to get high quality images with a large image weight. The price of the camera is 24 thousand rubles, the quality of the image is the merit of the APS-C matrix, which characterizes more than the country of the camera model, allowing you to take pictures with IOS 1600, without noise. The camera is light and compact.

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2nd place. The Nikon D3300 Kit camera is remembered for its striking design. The camera for 30 thousand rubles, allows you to take high-quality pictures and videos. Additionally, you can buy lenses and install wifi for comfortable work. Due to a weak battery, it will not work to shoot video for more than half an hour in a row.

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1 place. Canon EOS 600D Kit. The price of this model is only 23 thousand rubles. The rating was not affected by the lack of autofocus when shooting a video. This is explained by the high quality of photos due to the APS-C sensor, low noise and comfortable grip of the camera. The more experience you have, the more opportunities will be revealed when using this camera. Due to the additional lenses, you can get the highest quality picture.


A huge selection of smartphones equipped with built-in cameras allows each buyer to capture bright and pleasant moments of life on them. However, camera manufacturers are constantly creating new models that have better technical parameters than mobile device cameras. Therefore, if you want to get colorful high-quality images, we recommend purchasing the camera separately. Let's take a look at the top five devices of 2016 below.

The cameras described below differ by manufacturer, model, technical specifications and price. But each device attracts with high quality pictures.

Nikon Df

Nikon Df - a camera made in retro style. The device is durable, provides high quality shooting, has a moisture and dust-proof housing. It is distinguished by ease of operation and a wonderful design, made in compliance with the best traditions of the manufacturer. With this tool, you can get high-quality images even in difficult weather conditions. Let's take a closer look at its characteristics.

  1. Design and construction. The device is available in black and silver-black color palette, has a chopped shape, many analog controls, a small protrusion for grip. There is continuity in the model, as it is very similar to the manufacturer's classic black camera. The device comes in a magnesium case.
  2. Management, interface. The camera is equipped huge amount disks and analog selectors, which allows you to instantly set the shutter speed, correct the exposure, change the broach. The device has the same interface as other cameras of the brand. Its feature, like other devices of the company, is the absence of a wheel for quick operations. It is possible to switch images from day mode to night mode. To change what is displayed on the screen, use the "info" button. The i button provides access to the quick menu for changing basic shooting settings.
  3. Display. A device with a high-quality viewfinder, has viewing angles of 170 degrees, a screen diagonal of 3.2 inches, a resolution of 921 thousand dots, providing easy operation in Live View mode. The optical viewfinder provides 100% frame coverage, and its image is digitized.
  4. Autofocus system. The device has a 39-point system, which is distinguished by its accuracy and great convenience. The number of cross-shaped dots is 9, 7 dots work up to the f/8 level. The user has access to different autofocus modes.
  5. Instant data transfer. WU-1aWirelessMobileAdapter is an optional adapter that allows you to download information and share it with Internet users.
  6. Functions, modes. Shooting in HDR mode allows you to combine shots that have different dynamic range. Shooting in JPEG, RAW and TIFF format.
  7. Support for accessories and lenses. The camera is compatible with modern lenses and classic lenses, works with the CLS system, connects to an AR3 cable, the shutter can be remotely controlled.
In this model, the manufacturer managed to combine the best features of cameras of all time. Nikon Df with a proven autofocus system is compatible with many lenses, which puts it on a par with some of the best cameras on the market today. The average cost is 105,000 rubles.

Review Nikon cameras df see below:

Canon EOS 1DX Mark II is a professional camera equipped with two CF slots, released ahead of 31 Olympic Games. The device is characterized by high speed, reaching 16 frames per second and the output of images of excellent quality. The camera is designed for shooting photo stories, although it can also be used as a studio tool. The camera has a built-in GPS module. It is equipped with frame processing tools that allow you to quickly send them to agencies, and also has enhanced video functions. This DSLR is quite heavy. The device weighs almost 2 kg. Consider its features:

  • Construction, design, management. The camera features a classic design, thought out to the smallest detail. Its shell has minor design differences compared to the EOS 1DX series. External changes affected only the touch screen, which has increased the resolution, and he became receptive to autofocus instructions. Otherwise, the device has not undergone any innovations, since its ergonomics and design have been tested by time and a huge number of professionals. The camera is protected from dust/moisture, it is made in a magnesium alloy case with dimensions of 158x167.6x82.6 mm.
  • Menu. The EOS 1DX Mark II has an extensive menu with a rich set of functions that are geared more towards post-production than studio work. A device with a lot of exposure settings, modes, etc. But among them, it will not be difficult for a professional to create a set of exactly those that are suitable for the conditions in which he has to work. Settings can be saved to a memory card.
Specifications Canon EOS 1DX Mark II:
  1. A 20.2 megapixel sensor is sufficient for large format printing with minimal noise and wide dynamic range.
  2. Equipping the instrument with two DIGIC 6+ processors provides it with a high speed of operation.
  3. The autofocus module consists of 61 points.
  4. The sensitivity of the center point is -3 EV.
  5. The metering module consists of 360,000 points.
  6. The basic sensitivity range of ISO 100-51200 can be extended to ISO 409600.
  7. Video resolution 4096×2160 60p.
  8. Built-in GPS receiver.
The Canon EOS 1DX Mark II has a flawless build and good autofocus in Live View video mode, which is selected on the touchscreen. It has excellent equipment, placed in rugged body, supports UHD format, has a high resolution of the matrix. Such excellent characteristics allow this modern tool to capture real works of art with image quality up to ISO 6400. However, as already noted, the camera is heavy and bulky, and it also lacks built-in Wi-Fi, zebra, peaking focus and Log Gamma. The cost of the device is approximately 452,000 rubles.

For more details about the Canon EOS 1DX see here:


Nikon D4s is the flagship model of the camera, which attracts with its high speed, amazing shooting quality, handling and ergonomics. The camera is equipped with an Expeed 4 processor that reduces processing time by almost a third. Consider further the technical parameters of this model.
  • Design, ergonomics, dimensions, weight. The camera has a one-piece magnesium body that provides protection from hostile environment. The shape of the device resembles a square measuring 160x156.5x90.5 mm. The camera body alone weighs 1180 g, but holding it is quite comfortable thanks to the ergonomic grips and rubberized thumb protrusions located on the back surface. Externally, the camera does not look bulky.
  • Display. The screen in this model has the same dimensions as other full-frame DSLRs from the manufacturer. With a diagonal of 3.2 inches, it has a resolution of 921 thousand tons. The display large stock brightness, as well as a high level of contrast. It features thick protection that is resistant to scuffs and minor scratches.
  • Menu. Nikon D4s features a thoughtful menu and good viewing angles. The screen of the device is close to sRGB in color range and has a built-in light sensor. In low light, the camera buttons can be illuminated, and the brightness and color of the monitor can also be adjusted. A device with a large optical viewfinder. The diopter adjustment knob located at the end will help visually impaired users. Around the frame is information about shooting parameters, and exposure compensation is also provided.
The main characteristics of the device:
  1. Equipped with an upgraded 16.2 megapixel full-frame FX sensor.
  2. Expansion range up to ISO 50-409.600.
  3. Having a 1080/60p mode is a great help when capturing motion, providing a clearer picture.
  4. Possibility of slow-motion shooting in 720p format. 60/50 fps.
  5. Availability of 50p/30p/25p/24p modes.
  6. Amazing light sensitivity, moonlight shooting with advanced 51-point AF system.
The Nikon D4s delivers fast 11 frames per second and advanced noise reduction. Sealed device with easy operation, high level of detail, amazing color reproduction and dynamic range, fast focusing and continuous shooting. With a wide range of functions, the device is perfect for filming sports events and wildlife. The disadvantages of this model include a loud shutter, the lack of Capture NX2 in the package, as well as its high cost, amounting to approximately 315,000 rubles.

Video review of Nikon D4s, see below:


Nikon D810 is a full frame and balanced camera designed for professionals. The device is equipped with a new processor, much faster than its predecessors. The increase in display resolution has also left the competition behind, as has increased burst speed. The changes also affected other characteristics of the device, so we will consider them in more detail.
  • Appearance, dimensions, weight. The camera body has not undergone significant changes, it is still made of rubber, with the use of metal and plastic, or rather magnesium alloy. The overall dimensions of the device are 46 × 123 × 81.5 mm. It has become less by 20 g than its predecessor and is now equal to 980 g.
  • Display, interface, viewfinder. Model with a 3.2-inch screen and increased display resolution up to 1229 dots. The screen of the device is distinguished by solid viewing angles, excellent color reproduction and contrast, a decent supply of brightness. The display has solid protection, but just in case, the manufacturer has provided a cover that slightly distorts the image when bright natural light. The viewfinder of the device completely covers the frame, has a magnification of 0.7x. The graphical interface of the camera has not changed.
  • Performance. In the device, image processing is provided by the EXPEED 4 system. It features better image rendering and ISO sensitivity, allowing you to use an increased frame rate when shooting videos.
  • Matrix. Equipping the camera with a 36.3 megapixel matrix with no optical low-pass filter contributes to excellent image detail. The matrix is ​​distinguished by the speed of data reading, large dynamic range, image clarity.
  • Sensitivity. Extended sensitivity range from ISO 64 to 12800, expandable from ISO 32 to 51200.
The Nikon D810 camera belongs to first-class devices. With advanced optics, it provides the ability to capture high-quality images of incredible clarity. The model features group autofocus, high shooting speed, quiet shutter operation, slow battery drain, “Clarity” mode setting, new Flat-mode. The disadvantages of the device include the lack of Wi-Fi, GPS and the high price of approximately 184,990 rubles.

More about Nikon D810 in this video:

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III is a versatile device that will suit enthusiasts and experts in their field. The device is distinguished by high speed, reliability, equipment with a full-frame matrix, and the absence of unnecessary functions that reduce the efficiency of work. The camera is quite ergonomic, with thoughtful placement of controls. Let's take a closer look at its technical parameters.

  • Design, construction, dimensions, weight. The camera weighing 950 g is produced in a protected magnesium case of large dimensions 152 × 116.4 × 76.4 mm. It has a chassis and a rubberized relief coating in places of contact with hands. Differs in faultless assembly, keeps 100% working capacity in the course of shooting in rainy weather.
  • Display. Equipping the camera with a screen of increased strength and large dimensions provides convenience when working with footage. Screen size 3.2 inches 1.040 million dots. In this model, there are four modes of displaying data on the monitor, which are switched by pressing the "INFO" button. The user can set the playback duration, and pictures are zoomed using the top command dial. To do this, click on the button with a magnifying glass.
  • Interface. The menus of the EOS 5D Mark III, like its predecessor, are separated by horizontal multi-colored sections. An autofocus setting has also been added, it is possible to sort the footage.
  • Functionality. The device uses a 22 megapixel sensor and a DIGIC 5+ processor, which speeds up its work. He can create 6 frames per second.
  • Video. The camera offers various options for recording video files. Thanks to the All-I compression option, each processed frame becomes independent, providing a high quality picture. In addition, editing has become faster and more convenient.
FROM Canon camera EOS 5D Mark III its owner can solve any creative problem. Excellent pictures can be obtained thanks to the installed matrix, which provides high detail. The camera is distinguished by accurate exposure, low noise, excellent white balance, and the ability to capture high quality images with minimal lighting. Installing a new quiet shutter allows you not to advertise the fact of shooting, but in this case, its speed is reduced. The camera does not have an autofocus light. The disadvantages also include the highest frequency when shooting video - 30 frames per second, equipped with a mono microphone, as well as slow autofocus when using Live View. The average cost of a camera is 114,000 rubles.

01.08.2016

Finding the best compact camera of 2016 on the market today is no easy task. And this is due not to the lack of new products as such, but to their cost, which, due to the crisis in the economy, began to exceed a reasonable limit for devices of this class. Nevertheless, it is quite possible to buy a compact camera with good image quality, and we will try to consider the most interesting options.

Criterias of choice

In our analysis of the camera market, we decided to start from the needs of both the average consumer and an experienced photographer who wants to get a convenient device for work and turns his eyes to the segment of good compact digital cameras. These criteria should include:

  1. cost; it should be commensurate with the capabilities of the camera and the average prices of competitors' devices.
  2. functionality that should satisfy both the needs of an amateur and an experienced user; this is necessary so that the camera can serve a person for a long time even if he becomes actively interested in photography.
  3. lens focal length range; choosing the best compact camera this nuance you should pay close attention, because it does not have the ability to change optics.

Based on these parameters, we present a selection of the best compact cameras of this year.

Best compact camera 2016: Leica V-Lux 4

Perhaps today one of the most interesting cameras in this class is . This compact device from a premium brand of photographic equipment is, in fact, an upgraded version of Panasonic cameras, but boasts functionality combined with high-quality optics with a focal length of 24-576 mm.

The camera allows you to write both JPEG and RAW files and has a 12-megapixel 1 / 2.3 standard matrix. At the same time, taking into account the fact that the device has already changed its generation (by the way, the Leica V-Lux 4 was included in the top 10 best compact cameras of 2014), its price is less than 50 thousand rubles, which is cheaper than Japanese competitors with similar parameters. In addition, this device belongs to the best compact cameras according to professional reviews, which also serves as an additional advantage.

Best Compact Camera 2016: Nikon Coolpix L340



Deciding to choose a compact camera of good quality and at an affordable cost, it makes sense to look at the Nikon Coolpix L340. This model, at a cost of just over 8 thousand rubles, offers a serious zoom lens with a focal length range of 22.5 - 630 mm, small dimensions and good image quality.

Perhaps the only drawbacks of the device are the lack of a viewfinder (sighting is performed on the screen) and a connector for external flash. In addition, the camera does not offer a large number of manual settings, but it is quite suitable for an undemanding user, and its cost fully covers these shortcomings.

Best Compact Camera 2016: Canon PowerShot G9 X


Perhaps the best compact camera of 2016 in terms of design is the . It has a stylish appearance and at the same time a balanced set of characteristics. High-quality optics in it is combined with a matrix that is not bad in terms of characteristics, as well as advanced functionality in shooting video.

Best Compact Camera 2016: Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1RM2



Without a doubt, this camera is positioned as Sony's best compact camera of 2016. However, its cost, which is close to the top solutions of famous brands such as Leica, prevents it from being included in the leaders of our review. Despite this, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1RM2 is one of the best large-sensor compact cameras, as it is the only one (the only exception is the Leica Q compact) that offers a 35mm full-frame sensor in a compact body.

The sensor has a resolution of 42 megapixels, and it has back-light technology, which guarantees a wide range of sensitivity. The lens does not have the ability to zoom, and its focal length is 35mm with f/2.

As you can see, choosing the best compact camera of 2016 is a rather difficult task. In this review, we did not consider a number of other interesting cameras, including waterproof models, and focused on reviewing the best compact digital cameras of 2016, which will be of interest to both the amateur and experienced photographer.

I must say that a number of the considered models do not belong to absolute market novelties, and this is due to the fact that the models of the previous generation are distinguished by favorable price positioning. However, a number of the devices we reviewed are among the best digital compact cameras of 2015, and the combination of their current cost and characteristics allows us to recommend them this year. However, the choice, as always, remains with the consumer.

Today, the market is ruled by smartphones with the function of photo and video shooting. Their very existence already calls into question the survival of cameras as a type of technology. Therefore, the manufacturers of these devices get out of their skin, creating competitive gadgets, the image quality of which is incomparable even with very expensive flagship smartphones. But in terms of compactness, weight and shooting speed, some models may well compete.

The quality and functionality of modern cameras meets the latest technology and innovative developments. Photographic equipment has never before been equipped with such new technologies. Well-known SLR cameras have remained true to the classics conservatives, whose appearance has not changed much. But among the mirrorless models you can find really interesting innovative products. And at the same time, their value continues to decline. Today, you can become the owner of an excellent camera by giving only 30,000 rubles. At the same time, the problem of choice has increased, as new players with interesting offers have appeared on the market.



This is truly a royal camera from Sony. It is equipped with a 42-megapixel full-frame sensor. The power of its processor is enough to quickly shoot material in high quality. The device supports 4K video recording. In this device, let the battery down, which will not always be enough. But this disadvantage pays off with the overall powerful characteristics of the camera.



Could not help participating in the battle for large megapixels in 2018 and Canon.

Her EOS 5DS camera has a 50-megapixel sensor, the largest among full-frame sensors. Thanks to the "golden ratio" of functionality and durability, this device is ideal for shooting portraits in the studio and landscapes in nature.



Among mid-range cameras in 2018, it is worth noting the new product from Pentax. Model K-3 II was developed to improve the previous device in this model range- K-3. Therefore, the K-3 II is easily recognizable as a K-3 equipped with a number of useful innovations. The main functional difference of the new model is the GPS system, which allows not only to determine the location of the object being shot, but also to focus the image in time when shooting the starry sky, while searching for a good shot. Thus, it is possible to shoot the stars themselves, and not a trace of their blurry image.

The Pixel Shift Resolution function provides true color reproduction due to the fact that the camera processes the captured image pixel by pixel.

Autofocus in new camera also compares favorably with the previous model. In this device, he is able to better stabilize the image, and also knows how to correct the horizon level and determine the objects of panoramic images.

True, the new model is now being released without a flash, since a GPS module is now located in its place. But after all, you can connect an external flash, but with GPS this will not work.


This camera of 2018 contains all the most best performance that Canon can be proud of. This is an APS-C sensor, and the EOS-1D X maximum autofocus control system, and Dual Pixel CMOS color correction, and much more. Due to the fact that, in addition to all the advantages described above, the camera is also all-weather, it will appeal to almost any professional - from a journalist to a photo artist.



Model D5500 is a later modification of D5300. But Nikon was not one of the market leaders if the new modification differed only in number. The new camera has a 24.2 megapixel sensor, a more powerful Expid 4 processor, a 39-point autofocus system and non-stop shooting at 5fps.

The battery in the new device lasts long enough to take up to 820 photos, and the lightweight body material made the device more mobile. True, for this I had to sacrifice the GPS module.



The D5300 is the predecessor of the D5500, which is a modification of the earlier D5200. This camera received high praise from users, so the company decided to modernize it.

The changes affected the communication capabilities of the device: a Wi-Fi module was added to simplify the process of transferring footage to a computer, as well as a GPS module to fix the location of the photographer. There is also the possibility of shooting with high definition resolution due to the powerful Expid 4 processor, the results of which can be viewed on a colorful 3.2 inch display.

In this model, Nikon has eliminated the use of a low-pass filter, thanks to which the camera covers more elements of the frame, and the battery can now withstand heavy loads up to 600 shots.

The model also adds ISO with an extended range of 25600 and 39-point auto focus with support for high-speed continuous shooting. At the same time, the price of this device remained at the level of up to 15,000 rubles.



The D3300 is Nikon's simplest SLR camera. But he boasts many of the non-childish features of his older brothers. And it costs up to 30,000 rubles.

The extended ISO range and 24.2 megapixel sensor puts this camera on a par with expensive professional models.

The simplicity of the design makes it energy-saving, the camera can take up to 700 shots without recharging. At the same time, it supports high-definition extension and high-speed panoramic shooting. The automatic focusing of this device is only 11 points, but for that kind of money you can forgive.

This camera is very light - only 410 grams in a compact body.

For a small price, you have to pay for the lack of advanced communications: Wi-Fi and GPS modules. But the camera supports the connection of external modules.



Model A58 by and large cannot be called a SLR camera. Its mirror is static, and there is no viewfinder inherent in SLR cameras. But functionality it is no less than in mirror models. And due to the design, its cost is up to 30,000 rubles.

15-point autofocus, high-definition resolution support for both photo and video shooting, as well as a 20.1 megapixel sensor are present in this device.

The OLED viewfinder that this camera is equipped with is not inferior to the optical viewfinder of most DSLRs. A translucent mirror and the possibility of continuous 8fps shooting makes it competitive among professional models.

The lack of A58 in a small display is only 2.7 inches with a small resolution of 460 thousand dots, which, in principle, does not interfere with adapting it for convenient shooting.


It is very tempting when the manufacturer offers interchangeable lenses, but this is more of a disadvantage than an advantage. The Sony RX10 II is built with a fixed zoom lens. This is much more convenient as it makes the camera light and handy. The main disadvantage is the price.



If you buy something cheaper, but of high quality in 2018, you should opt for the FZ1000 camera model. It has a long 16x zoom lens, the sensors are smaller than the previous model, they are not as convenient to use in poor lighting conditions. But, despite this, the device does an excellent job of shooting 4 videos.


It is very inconvenient when the semi-automatic camera does not fit in your pocket. Today there are many options for pocket cameras. One of the great cameras is the Sony Cyber-shot RX100 IV. Due to the fact that this model is equipped with a 1-inch image sensor, it can shoot 4K video. But if it turns out to be too expensive for the price, you can opt for the older RX 100 model, this generation of cameras is not much different from the new ones, but at a price they are much more affordable.


This camera differs from the previous ones in its power and ease of use. The G7 X is a great budget choice. But in this model there is one drawback - this is the lack of a viewfinder of the RX100 IV level.


The camera suits the user as long as you need to shoot at a small distance. As soon as the footage between the subject and the camera increases, the quality drops sharply. Panasonic FZ300 will cope with such obstacles. It gives a 25x optical zoom and image quality even when zooming in on the image. This camera is well adapted to bad weather conditions.


The market leader is the 65x optical zoom camera, the SX60. This camera is fully mechanized, with manual control. In his arsenal there is a viewfinder and the function of saving raw files. The picture quality is very good, but deteriorates in low light. If you zoom in to the maximum distance, graininess appears on the screen. This model does not claim to be perfect. But at the same time, it is an excellent budget camera option.


The A7R II is great for shooting movies. This is a very good camera. The only downside is the poor quality battery. This shortcoming is compensated by a very flexible and convenient lens.


Today, you can buy a very profitable camera model GH4. This camera can shoot high-quality 4K video. Of the advantages, you can observe the YAGH interface unit, XLR audio input and a 10-bit output for non-adapted 4K video.


The G7 camera has almost all the features of the previous model in its arsenal, but costs half as much. This price is due to some missing elements in the camera. No headphone jack, no timecode support, and more functional merits, which are in expensive models. But, despite this, such a camera is perfect for shooting a concert or a matinee at school.


Today, Sony is the market leader. The RX100 IV is very often used for professional video shooting. Such a camera can still be used in shooting 4K video, this option makes the camera even better and more functional. Among competitors, this device takes first place.


The LX100 camera model is very miniature with its arsenal of possibilities. Among its features are unique abilities in the field of shooting 4K video. This camera is very easy to use and gives excellent results when working with it.


The number one underwater camera is the TG-4. With this device, you have nothing to fear. Its functionality allows you to make high-quality shooting in the most severe conditions. The camera perfectly shoots at a depth of 15 meters in the sea or ocean, in rain, snow and being in severe Siberian frost. In addition, the camera allows you to take macro shots from as close as possible. The options of this camera have GPS and Wi-Fi, which makes this camera simply indispensable for lovers of extreme recording.

Best mirrorless cameras | Introduction

Mirrorless (or system) cameras have taken a significant share of the market previously held by digital SLR cameras. The reason for this is compactness, a simpler and more reliable design, and in many cases better image quality at a comparable price.

There is also a reverse trend: SLR cameras become more and more like mirrorless in terms of functionality. There are new opportunities in the live view mode, the video mode is being improved - in a word, everything for which the presence of a mirror is rather a hindrance or atavism. Why do you need a mirror at all, if the camera shoots perfectly without it?

However, if earlier mirrorless were, rather, the younger brothers of SLR cameras, now everything looks far from being so obvious. First of all, in terms of price: now it is about the same if we are talking about models of the same level and generation.

Two things remained unchanged: the ability to change optics and various photo accessories, as well as a wide range of shooting modes even for the most inexpensive and simple model (since mirrorless there is a direct alternative to a DSLR).

Best entry-level mirrorless: Olympus PEN E-PL8

E-PL8 (from 38,000 rubles with a lens) somewhat reminiscent of the first models of film "Leeks" and "FEDs" - the same uncompromising compactness, the same rounded ends, the same usage profile. The creators of the E-PL8 sought to achieve the best ratio of image quality and compactness of the camera.

The heart of the E-PL8 is a 16MP (4608 x 3456) Live MOS sensor that complies with the Four Thirds standard (17.3x13mm). The proprietary TruePic VII processor is responsible for image processing. Despite the compactness, the novelty is equipped with a sensor-shift image stabilizer that works in three planes and allows you to use shutter speeds up to 3.5 steps longer.

Considering that such compact camera It is supposed to be used with an equally compact "pancake" lens (otherwise it loses its main "trump card"), the presence of a built-in stabilization system is extremely valuable: all compact lenses for the micro 4/3 system do not have their own optical stabilizer.

Camera dimensions are 115x67x 38 mm, weight - 357 g. There are three color options: black, white and brown. Stylish performance is complemented by original Olympus leather cases and straps, made in the same color scheme as the camera.

Autofocus is implemented on the basis of the contrast detection method and cannot boast of the same speed characteristics as those of SLR cameras. However, in recent years, Olympus has continuously improved the focusing system in mirrorless cameras. If we evaluate the 81-point autofocus of the E-PL8, given that we are talking about a purely amateur camera, there should be no complaints about the speed and accuracy of autofocus.

The AF system offers some useful compact features such as face-detection focusing and touch-focus. As you might guess, if touch-focus is provided, then the camera's LCD display is touch-sensitive. The display diagonal is 3 inches. The display can be tilted up and down and even rotated 180 degrees, so this camera is perfect for selfie lovers.

There are no "advanced" controls for the shooting process on the E-PL8 body. The shooting mode dial and the unnamed command dial (its functionality depends on the selected mode) are the E-PL8's main controls. Everything else can be configured using a few function buttons and a navigation pad located to the right of the display.

The USB connector complies with the 2.0 standard, so high speed when copying pictures, you should not dream. But there is a built-in Wi-Fi module, which can be used, among other things, for remote control of the camera using a smartphone.

One of the few features of the E-PL8 that is typical of a higher-end DSC is its continuous shooting speed. 8 frames / s - an excellent indicator for amateur mirrorless.

Video is recorded at resolutions up to 1920x1080/30p and stereo sound, although in the era of the ubiquity of the 4K standard, these characteristics are hardly surprising.

The BLS-50 battery allows you to take about 350 shots (CIPA measurements). Not a bad indicator for a casual camera!

So, the E-PL8 in its spirit resembles the film rangefinders of yesteryear. This camera has a good sensor and image stabilizer, and everything else depends on the quality of the optics. Today, this is one of the most inexpensive models on the market - its cost is about 34 thousand rubles without a lens and about 40 thousand with an M.Zuiko 14-42mm f / 3.5-5.6 zoom lens.

Note that for the open micro 4/3 standard there are quite a few really amazing lenses from Olympus, Panasonic, Leica and some second-tier optics manufacturers. We would recommend abandoning the standard zoom lens and purchasing a better one, for example, the Olympus M.Zuiko 25mm F1.8.

Best Videography Mirrorless: Panasonic Lumix DMC-G85

The first thing you notice when looking at the DMC-G85 (from $1000 with a lens in the USA, not sold in Russia yet)- SLR style design. What interesting things can this model offer?

In terms of photo quality, the DMC-G85 is close to the Olympus E-PL8 (it uses the exact same Live MOS sensor), but there is a difference: here the photos look sharper, due to the lack of a low-pass filter in front of the sensor. The absence of an AA filter places special demands on the post-processing of images, in order to avoid the moiré effect. In this regard, we prefer the Olympus approach to the soul: in order to get the same "glamorous" result that the PEN E-PL8 produces without any processing, in the case of the DMC-G85, you have to tinker with graphics editor. If you have such a desire, then more detail and quality can be squeezed out of this camera.

The camera chassis is made of magnesite. There is protection from rain and dust. The DMC-G85 is easy to confuse with a DSLR, not only because of its design, but also due to its relatively large dimensions: 128x89x74 mm, weight - about 500 g.

One of the key advantages of the DMC-G85 is ergonomics. The display rotates in all planes. Two command disks are provided. Both are comfortable to rotate with your thumb and forefinger while holding the camera with one hand. The function buttons Fn1 and Fn2/Q.Menu are available in the same way. In total there are 5 physical function buttons and 5 touch zones on the right edge of the display. All these buttons/zones can be "hung up" with one or another menu function, which makes the process of setting up the DMC-G85 during shooting extremely convenient.

The electronic viewfinder is made using OLED technology and has 2.36 million dots - it is exactly the same as in most other mirrorless cameras.

One charge allows you to take about 320 shots (when measured by the CIPA method). This is not the best indicator. However, battery life can be significantly extended (up to three times) if used when shooting with the electronic viewfinder in power saving mode. In this mode, the EVF turns off automatically 3.5 seconds after the owner stops using the camera (based on the readings from the eye detection sensor).

The sensor-shift stabilization system works in five planes and can be used in combination with optical stabilization, which increases the effectiveness of combating image blur at slow shutter speeds. This is the second generation of the Dual IS 2 system, but it only works when Panasonic branded lenses are used. Otherwise, you will have to choose which stabilization system to use - in the camera or in the optics.

The 49-point AF system is based on the method of contrast detection and offers functions typical for "soap dishes": focusing with face detection in the frame, touch-autofocus.

The camera is equipped Wi-Fi module, through which you can both manage the shooting process from your smartphone (using the appropriate application), and upload pictures to your computer, view video from the camera, etc.

Video recording is one of the key uses for the DMC-G85. The camera allows you to shoot at 4K resolution (3840x2160/30p) and 1920x1080/60p. In video recording mode, focus peaking ("enhancing the contours" of a focused object), highlighting overexposed areas, and adjusting the microphone sensitivity level are available (when adjusting the microphone, you can turn on the wind noise filter). For more serious videography tasks, there is an output for an external microphone. Color-contrast settings are provided, as when shooting photos in JPEG mode.

Mass market challenger: Canon EOS M5

M5 - flagship mirrorless from Canon. M5 (from 84,000 rubles with a lens) equipped with a 24-megapixel CMOS-matrix with support for Dual Pixel AF technology. The image resolution is 6000x4000, the physical size of the matrix is ​​22.3x14.9 mm (APS-C).

The creators of the M5 took the semi-professional SLR camera EOS 80D as a basis - the novelty inherited from it a matrix with Dual Pixel AF technology. Dual Pixel AF technology pioneered in mirrorless Canon, and previously it was found in some SLR cameras from this manufacturer (it first appeared in the EOS 70D model). It is Canon's most efficient and fastest live view AF system today.

In the central region of the sensor, which covers approximately 64% of the entire image, there are 49 hybrid photodiodes that are used for both shooting and focusing. These photodiodes are paired: they consist of two "halves" directed in different directions from the lens axis. By analyzing the difference in the level of brightness obtained from such a photodiode, the camera determines the distance to the object and focuses on it, using the same principle that is implemented in the phase detection autofocus sensors of SLR cameras. The Dual Pixel AF focusing system ensures fast and accurate focusing in photo mode as well as when recording video.

Unlike the Canon 80D SLR camera, the new product uses a more efficient Digic 7 image processor. The speed characteristics are the same: 7 frames per second when using AF, or 9 frames with a fixed focus point.

Outwardly, the M5 resembles a 2-3 times smaller professional DSLR Canon- from the 5D or 1D line. When compared with others mirrorless, it has medium dimensions: 116x89x61 mm, 427 g. On the upper end of the camera, along the edges, there are shooting and exposure compensation dials, and to the left of the exposure compensation dial is a command dial. Another command dial is set around the shutter button.

The LCD display has a diagonal of 3.2 inches. It can be tilted up to 85° or flipped down and rotated 180° for selfies. The screen is touch-sensitive and is used during shooting to quickly adjust individual parameters, highlight the focused object (focus peaking function) and select the focus object. Note that the touch focus function, which we also encountered in other models, is implemented by Canon in a very original way and is called "Touch and Drag AF". Instead of telling the camera where to focus by touching the touch screen with our finger, we are prompted to drag the focus frame along with the subject - this is true if the subject is moving in the frame. The function works even if the electronic viewfinder is used and the LCD monitor is off (!). In other words, the screen serves as a kind of "joystick" that allows you to follow the target.

The electronic viewfinder is made using OLED technology and has 2.36 million dots - it is similar to that in the Panasonic DMC-G85 model.

Available Bluetooth and W-Fi/NFC. With the help of the latter, you can remotely control the camera using special application for smartphone.

On a single charge, the LP-E17 battery can take about 295 shots - the worst figure in our review. There is an economy mode that involves the use of only the EVF, in this case, you can count on about 400 shots.

But perhaps the most obvious drawback of the Canon M5 is the lack of a 4K video recording mode. On the other hand, 1920x1080/60p quality is more than enough for 99% of today's tasks. Another thing is that there are other negative points in terms of videography. In particular, you can not use the optical image stabilizer, only electronic stabilization is available for video.




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