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In the last ten years or so, we have seen a lot of advancements in the world of photography.
During that time, there has been a steady increase in the popularity of mirrorless cameras, making them the best and most logical camera option for professionals and beginners alike.
Here, we will talk about these amazing products in great detail and provide reviews of some of the best mirrorless cameras for video to help you find a model that is perfect for your photography needs.
Contents
Review of the Best Mirrorless Cameras For Video
The wide range of choices in mirrorless cameras is offered by many reputable brands such as Sony, Panasonic, and Fujifilm have made it quite difficult to choose between products. So whether you are a professional photographer, an amateur, or an enthusiast, we have reviewed the best mirrorless cameras available in the market just for you:
Best Overall: Sony Alpha a6500
PROS
- Touchscreen for better and immediate focus response
- Compact design is able to fit in a large jacket pocket easily
- 11 fps continuous shooting with exposure tracking and auto-focus
- Color-coded menu system makes it easier to recognize and remember various parts of the menu
- 2-megapixel APS-C Exmor sensor with enhanced circuit processing boosts light collection efficiency
CONS
- Sensor dust cleaner may not work that well
- Lack of a headphone port can be a hindrance
- Tendency to overheat may force shorter shooting sessions
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers have found Sony Alpha a6500 24.2MP mirrorless camera to be an excellent product. They have reported it to be a good backup camera for a professional, an advanced hobbyist, or as a travel camera. They particularly like the in-body stabilization that compensates for hand movement and camera shake.
It also achieves better nighttime shots by significantly reducing double images and smeared lights. It allows users to shoot confidently almost everywhere and shoot, even when not standing still. With this camera, they can also take low light shots that can only be taken by full-frame users, which is a definite plus.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Sony Alpha a6500 comes with many features, which makes it the top product on our list. Its robust magnesium alloy body is moisture and dust-resistant, thus enabling it to work in harsh environments.
The built-in Wi-Fi makes it easier to share images online and the touchscreen design helps in intuitive touch-to-focus control. It also features a 120 fps viewing mode which is perfect for smooth tracking of fast-moving objects. This compact model also incorporates a high-resolution viewfinder for clear and bright eye-level viewing.
Who Will Use This Most
Although this camera is great for everyday use, it is particularly beneficial for an action photographer, as it shoots in fast bursts. You are unlikely to miss a shot with this amazing camera. The menu of this camera is a bit snappy, allowing you to review the shots quickly with less lag.
Its enhanced image quality allows you to take shots you normally wouldn’t get. It is easier to handle and does not put a strain on your hands, even if you hold it for longer periods of time.
Bottom Line
Is the Sony Alpha a6500 a good camera for you? Definitely. Its better focus, bigger buffer, five-axis, and touchscreen ensure that every shot is a masterpiece. It is a compact product that boosts image stabilization, which helps produce fantastic videos and amazing images. This product also comes highly recommended due to its better low light images, making it one of the best products available.
- 24.2MP APS-C Exmor sensor w/ advanced processing up to ISO 51.200
- Wide 425 phase detection AF points, Fast 0.05 sec. AF acquisition
- 5-axis in-body image stabilization steadies every lens. Silent Shooting. Noise Reduction :Long...
Runner-up: Fujifilm X-T2
PROS
- Increased buffer memory guarantees a faster response
- Reduced shutter-release time lag and enhanced AF precision
- Four times faster processing engine than the previous model
- Improved response time ensures shorter delays between shots
- Various simulation modes for vibrant color tones and rich gradations
CONS
- Low light focusing may be a bit slow
- May require battery grip for long events
What Recent Buyers Report
The Fujifilm X-T2 24.3MP showcases the perfect marriage of technology and style. Buyers love this camera because of its many superb features. It is a compact model that hardly weighs anything. Users can wear it around their necks or sling it over their shoulders and barely feel it.
They have also found this product to be amazingly good due to its extremely responsive auto-focusing system and first-rate image and color processing. This camera allows them to produce top-notch images and makes photography a joy.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Fujifilm X-T2 is a top-level, DSLR –shaped, APS-C camera which provides much better features than its predecessors. It is able to address the X-system’s previous weaknesses, thus broadening its considerable appeal.
Its enhanced image quality, video, flash control, auto-focus, and greater number of pixels make it an all-around more capable camera than other models available. It boasts a clever double-hinged, flip-out screen that offers users the flexibility advantages of a completely articulated monitor while still retaining the compact form of a tilting screen.
Who Will Use This Most
The Fujifilm X-T2 is a full-featured camera that offers a best-in-class user experience for professional photographers. It is the clear choice for photojournalists, videographers, or anyone else looking for extra performance and amazing stills. It is also an ideal match for any street photographer.
Its optical viewfinder and minimalist range-finder-inspired design will also appeal to people who love practicing a slower form of photography. It is also perfect for adventurous photographers as it is fully weather-sealed, making it the best option for working in inclement weather.
Bottom Line
The Fujifilm X-T2 is an impressive camera that combines high-tech image processing with a classic design, making it a popular choice among photographers. Its various features, such as a fantastic electronic viewfinder, direct-access control, and a great design, give this product an edge over its competitors. With this product, you can experience maximum control at your fingertips.
- 24.3MP X Trans CMOS III APS-C sensor reduces moiré and false colors to improve image quality and X...
- Dust and moisture resistant body with approximately 63 points of weather sealing; Freeze resistance...
- High precision 0.48 inch, 2.36 million dot OLED viewfinder featuring a magnification of 0.77x and...
Best for the Money: Sony Alpha a6000
PROS
- Immediate access to all functions and full DSLR control allow you to shoot like a pro
- Incredibly detailed shots as a result of an advanced and highly sensitive image sensor
- Wide viewing angle and 100% frame coverage ensure clear visibility from corner to corner
- Able to shoot 11 photos per second, which makes it easy to capture all your unforgettable moments
- Amazing moving-subject tracking performance ensures that you never miss a shot during video or still capture
CONS
- Absence of touch-screen can be a hindrance
- Not weather-sealed, which makes it inappropriate for harsh environments
What Recent Buyers Report
There are many features of Sony Alpha a6000 24 MP model that buyers greatly appreciate. It has a solid metal body, an ideal weight, and excellent ergonomics. Its protruding rubber grip allows users to get a comfortable, firm hold while conveniently changing most of the settings single-handedly.
Recent buyers also like the fact that you cannot change the settings by mistake while you are carrying the camera, as the dial does not move unless it is twisted. Above all, they were happy to get high image quality and advanced technology without paying an exorbitant price.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Sony a6000 is a continuation of the Sony NEX-6 line with a number of differences that make this product much better and more popular among users. Its more powerful Bionz X image processor and high-resolution 24.3 MP APS-CMOS ensure excellent image quality and stunning dynamic range.
This mirrorless camera is much better at tracking moving objects while being able to shoot at a whopping 11 fps. Moreover, its bigger buffer allows users to shoot a large number of RAW images before it fills up.
Who Will Use This Most
This camera is great for both beginners and professional photographers. It is excellent for both people and landscape photography, and is lighter than most DSLRs, making it easier to carry around. Its intuitive controls and settings are very easy to learn. You can use this amazing product in every difficult lighting situation and you will always get impeccably sharp and clear pictures.
Bottom Line
Getting a great camera does not require huge amounts of money spent on the latest model. If you are looking for a good-quality, economical mirrorless camera, then the Sony Alpha a6000 is a fine choice. Although it is a bit older Sony model, its incredible features and amazing performance allow it to hold its own against all the latest models.
- 24 MP APS-C CMOS sensor ISO 100-25600 and Focus Sensitivity Range: EV 0 to EV 20 (at ISO 100...
- Operating temperature: 32-104°F / 0-40°C.Hybrid AF with 179-point focal plane phase-detection and...
- Up to 11 FPS continuous shooting, Compatible OS:Windows Vista SP2-8, Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8,...
Best Sony Mirrorless Camera for Video: Sony Alpha a7II
PROS
- Larger and easy-to-reach shutter button
- Able to record video in XAVC S, AVCHD, or MP4 format
- Richly textured coating and a deeper, more comfortable grip
- Improved video features such as flat picture profile and XAVC S codec
- Improved video features, thanks to XAVC S codec and flat picture profile
CONS
- Battery life is not very good
- Lack of touchscreen can slow you down
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers are very impressed with the improved ergonomics, video capabilities, focus speed, and particularly with the in-body image stabilization of Sony Alpha 7 product. It boasts the world’s first five-axis stabilized, full-frame sensor, which has allowed them to capture stunning images.
They have also welcomed the improved grip and relocated shutter release button. They find that its all-round performance has made it the perfect camera for shooting both stills and video.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Sony Alpha a7II is the successor of the original Alpha 7 with added features such as the five-axis, sensor-shift image stabilization and 24 MP full-frame CMOS sensor. This camera is 1.5X better and offers 30% faster tracking, making it superior to its predecessor.
We are particularly impressed with its rugged build quality, a relocated shutter release button, and a new front dial. Its Bionz X processor allows it to produce images with less noise, reduced diffraction, and better detail.
Who Will Use This Most
This is a highly versatile camera that is perfect for all photographers. Its in-body stabilization makes it particularly suitable for action/sports photographers. It is very comfortable to hold and feels very secure in the hands when you shoot while walking.
Moreover, improved motion detection and a 30% increase in AF speed help photographers follow moving objects easily. It is also able to produce landscape images with more warmth, greater saturation, and higher contrast.
Bottom Line
The Sony Alpha A7II is an excellent camera with innumerable features that have caused quite a stir in the photography world. The best thing about the Alpha A7II is the sensor housing has been made stronger with the help of magnesium alloy.
This, together with this camera’s dust and moisture sealing, ensures a very reliable and durable product. It also comes with an excellent electronic viewfinder, which allows the users to capture a nice clear view with plenty of detail and hardly a shimmer.
- World’s first 5-axis in-body image stabilization in a full-frame camera.
- Use your favorite lenses without blur from camera shake.
- Capture stunning images with full-frame, 24.3MP resolution.
Best Mirrorless Camera for 4k Video: Panasonic Lumix GH5
PROS
- Can shoot unlimited photos at 30 fps
- Focus stacking, 30-fps bursts, and post focus
- Dust-proof construction with weather-sealing on every button, dial, and joint
- Rugged design with a black matte finish, slim body, and comfortable hand grip
- Automatic white balance feature is particularly helpful in product photography
CONS
- May not work well in low light
- Auto-focus may not work great all the time
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers think Panasonic LUMIX GH5 camera is a powerhouse available at an amazing price. They find its many features and amazing performance totally amazing. They report that it is fast, performs very well, and has high-frame capabilities.
It boasts great auto-focus and a cool touchscreen, which put this product in a class of its own. With 1.66x faster processing power, this camera is able to produce more natural, true-to-life images with superb noise control.
Why it Stands Out to Us
We are particularly impressed with the long list of specifications and video features this camera has to offer. The five-axis image stabilization dramatically improves the stability of the videos without the help of a tripod, which gives it an advantage over most DSLRs. Its excellent build-quality, combined with weather sealing, make it a highly durable product.
Who Will Use This Most
The Panasonic Lumix GH5 is a popular camera among videographers due to its various movie-making features. It also appeals to the wider market of enthusiast photographers who want a camera that can not only shoot great stills but has amazing prowess in movie footage, as well. It also works well for interviews, music videos, professional photoshoots, and studio work.
Bottom Line
The Lumix GH5 from Panasonic comes with a wealth of customizable controls and easy-to-use menus. It is perfect for people who want to make use of the latest technologies and advancements such as a high-resolution electronic viewfinder, high-speed continuous shooting, five-axis sensor image stabilization, and multiple video features make it very attractive. It is a camera that aims to deliver excellent results.
- Professional photo and video: 20.3 Megapixel micro four thirds sensor with no low pass filter to...
- Splash or Freeze Proof Design: Freeze proof to 10 degrees the durable magnesium alloy body...
- Dual image stabilization: 5 axis dual image stabilization corrects all lenses, including classic...
Best Mirrorless Camera for Video Under $500: Sony a5100
PROS
- Effortless one-handed operation increases convenience
- Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to share pictures without any hassle
- In-camera guide makes it easier to access its various features
- Provides reliable performance, regardless of lighting conditions
- Lightweight and compact, thus easier to carry in your pocket or purse
CONS
- May take quite some time to figure out the menu
- Lack of electronic viewfinder makes it difficult to focus
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers like Sony a5100 camera a lot. They especially appreciate the help button feature, which provides them with helpful tips in regards to their shooting mode. They are very impressed with its 50-megabit recording mode, fast focusing, and full-frame, uncompressed HDMI output. This product provides users with excellent image quality for both stills and videos, which is why they are satisfied with their purchase.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The Sony a5100 is lightweight and small in size, with a high level of customization. Its solid construction feels comfortable in the hand. The colors of this camera are vibrant and bright, with high saturation. Its various features, such as the touchscreen’s ability to show great results in low lighting, increased speed of auto-focus, and many more make it a highly capable camera able to produce great results.
Who Will Use This Most
This is a perfect product for amateur photographers who want to develop advanced photo skills. It is also preferred by professional photographers looking for an additional high-performing camera. It provides a great balance of portability and image quality at very economical prices, thus making it a fantastic choice for all photographers.
Bottom Line
The Sony a5100 is a compact and versatile camera which packs in some of the best technologies offered by Sony. It not only boosts a powerful Bionz processor but also offers super-fast, phase-detection technology, which is perfect for people who are hungry to develop advanced photo skills. Moreover, its low price tag makes it accessible to all users.
- Ultra-fast auto focus with 179 AF points and 6Fps
- Capture life in high resolution with 24MP APS-C sensor
- Instant sharing via smartphone with Wi-Fi and NFC1
Comparison of the Best Mirrorless Cameras For Video
What is a Mirrorless Camera?
A mirrorless camera, as the name suggests, is one that is constructed without a reflex mirror, a key component of DSLR cameras. This mirror in DSLR cameras reflects the light coming in through the lens up to the optical viewfinder.
Sony Alpha a6500
Mirrorless cameras lack an optical viewfinder. Instead, the lens casts the image directly onto the sensor, thus allowing you to preview the digital image on the electronic viewfinder or the rear LCD screen. With the constant expansion of features in mirrorless cameras, it is advisable to invest in a good, quality product to ensure good image and video quality.
Why Are Mirrorless Cameras Better?
Mirrorless cameras and DSLRs have one feature in common which separates them from all other types of cameras, they both have interchangeable lenses. However, mirrorless cameras have the edge over their traditional predecessors due to the following reasons:
Compact
Mirrorless cameras are more compact and lightweight, making it easier for photographers to carry them around. The absence of a mirror ensures a camera that is smaller than a DSLR, thus providing you with more space in your camera bag.
Video Quality
Mirrorless cameras have the capability to capture 4k or ultra-HD video, making it the premium choice of filmmakers. DSLRs are unable to use phase detection while recording video, which results in a blurry look in the middle of the video while the camera is searching for the right focus.
Continuous Shooting
Mirrorless cameras are leading the way in the field of continuous shooting mode because many models are now offering 4k video, which demands excellent processing power. Their relatively fast burst speeds allow them to capture action shots easily, which can no longer be matched by DSLRs.
How Do I Choose a Mirrorless Camera For Video?
When you are choosing a mirrorless camera for video, make sure to keep the following points in mind:
Sensor Size
Sensors are a key component in the construction of a digital camera and they come in a variety of sizes. Smartphones have small image sensors, while DSLRs and professional-level mirrorless cameras have large sensors inside. A larger sensor ensures the camera is able to perform great, even in low lighting, as it is able to catch more of the available light.
Moreover, it provides a greater depth of field. There are three main sensor sizes – micro four thirds, full-frame, and APS-C. Make sure you check which sensor is used in the camera before making a purchase.
Image Stabilization
No matter how hard we try to keep our hands steady, they always shake while shooting, which results in blurry images. Built-in image stabilization in mirrorless cameras helps to compensate for this by enabling you to keep the camera at low shutter speed. This is essential and you should invest in a camera that supports both lens and in-body stabilization for excellent results.
Availability of Lenses
As you will be using a camera that has an interchangeable lens, make sure that you find out the lenses available for the model that you choose before buying it. Most companies produce lenses that are compatible with the cameras of their own brand. Check the specifications to find out which lenses are available for a particular camera and make sure the options available suit your requirements.
Aspects to Consider Before Buying
Due to the wide range of mirrorless cameras available today, choosing one that perfectly suits your needs is no easy task. You can easily get confused with the different features and technical jargon used, and lose sight of the things that actually matter. To help you find the right camera, the following are some things you should consider before making your purchase:
RAW / Manual Controls
These advanced cameras are equipped with full manual controls and provide the option to capture photos in RAW. However, different models are designed with different control systems, different buttons, menu systems, and dials.
Thus, every unit has various levels of accessibility, convenience, and complexity. Although each camera has similar settings, make sure you choose one you can quickly get used to.
Image Burst Speed
Image burst speed can be simply defined as the number of pictures a camera can continuously take when you hold down the shutter button. It is usually represented in frames per second and images per second.
Burst rate reflects the speed of the model’s processing ability and is an extremely important feature to consider if you plan to do sports or action photography.
Megapixels
Megapixels are the number of pixels a unit captures in a picture and are directly related to the size of the image. To put it simply, the more megapixels a camera can capture, the larger the picture can be printed out. This feature is crucial, especially if your pictures are going to be printed and displayed on the side of buildings, or if you’re going to crop your images significantly.
People Also Ask
Since there are a lot of technical specifications surrounding mirrorless cameras, there are numerous questions regarding the unit. To ensure you make an informed purchase and find a camera that best suits your needs, the following are some of the most frequently asked questions:
Is Mirrorless Better For Video?
Due to their on-chip focus sensors, mirrorless cameras are usually better for video shooting. Furthermore, higher-end models are able to capture Ultra-HD or 4K video with a resolution that’s four times more than HD footage alone. Presently, only high-end DSLRs are able to shoot 4K/Ultra-HD video.
Why Are Mirrorless Cameras So Expensive?
Since you need to purchase both a camera body and different lenses, the overall cost of a mirrorless camera increases. Also, these models have just started gaining popularity, so companies have to invest large sums in research and development to improve auto-focus performance and other camera features. However, as time progresses, the prices of these models will come down.
Why Are Mirrorless Lenses So Big?
The increase in the size and weight of lenses is due to the shift towards higher-end models which feature improved optics to reduce vignetting and distortion. By adding more lens elements and developments such as powerful image stabilization, the size and weight of lenses have significantly increased.
Conclusion
Photography is a hobby and a skill that takes time and commitment to master. We hope that the above reviews will help you find a model on which you can easily learn how to become a world-class videographer. We have also included some of the common concerns faced by both amateur and professional videographers so you can become well-versed in the field of photography.
