Produkt nyheder
Fujifilm X-M5 review
The Fujifilm X-M5 is the company's latest APS-C mirrorless camera and comes in as the lowest-end entry in its current lineup. It uses the company's last-generation 26MP X-Trans sensor, the same one found in cameras like the X-T4 and X-100V, but comes equipped with its latest processor, giving it access to Fujifilm's AI-powered subject detection autofocus.
Key features:- 26MP X-Trans BSI CMOS sensor
- X-Processor 5 with AI-powered subject detection AF
- On-sensor phase detection
- Fully articulated 3", 1.04M-dot LCD
- 20 Film Simulation modes, including Reala ACE
- Continuous shooting up to 8fps (30fps with E-shutter and 1.25x crop)
- 6.2K 3:2 video up to 30p, 4K up to 60p with crop
- External mic and 3.5mm headphone socket
- Single UHS-I card slot
- Battery life rated up to 330 frames (440 frames in Eco) per charge
The X-M5 is available in silver at a body-only price of $799. A black version is coming in April 2025. Fujifilm is also selling a kit with the X-M5 and its XC15-45mmF3.5-5.6 OIS PZ lens for $899. Optically, it's not our favorite lens, but its size and price make it an obvious pairing with this camera.
Buy now:
$899 w/ 15-45 at Amazon.com$799 at Adorama$799 at B&H Photo Index:- What's new?
- How it compares
- Body and controls
- Image Quality
- Autofocus
- Video
- Conclusion
- Sample gallery
- Specifications
- Press release
The X-M5 is a return to a relatively old form factor, as the last time we saw a camera with the X-M label was the X-M1 from 2013, the third camera to feature the then-new X-mount, though the X-A series carried on until much more recently. It's broadly made up of parts we've seen before, put together with a few new tricks.
A tiny designThe X-M5 is very lightweight and compact – even with the power zoom kit lens attached, it comes in under 500g (17.6oz) and is small enough to fit in a small bag or jacket pockets. Anyone who buys one will be hard-pressed to come up with an excuse not to take it with them when they leave the house.
It also helps that, subjectively, it's a very good-looking camera; Fujifilm's retro aesthetic with modern functionality continues to serve it well. More on that later.
The camera also features the film simulation dial found on the X-T50, which lets users play around with Fujifilm's color profiles to get the look they want without requiring them to dive into the menu. It may seem like a small thing given that Film Simulations have long been one of Fujifilm's main selling points, but putting them front and center like this strongly encourages people to experiment with them, even if they're averse to spending too much time in the menus.
4K LP videoThe Fujifilm X-M5 has 4K and 1080p 'Long Play' modes that crop in on the sensor, letting you record for longer before the camera overheats. The 4K LP mode has a 1.18x crop and is available in 23.98p, 24p, 25p, and 30p. The FHD LP mode, meanwhile, is only available in 50p and 60p and comes with a 1.29x crop. The company says you can record for over an hour at 4K when using the LP mode in temperatures of 25°C (77°F) and around 20 minutes at 40°C (104°F).
The X-M5 also has two new low-bitrate options, letting you capture footage at 25Mbps and 8Mbps. This lets you sacrifice image quality for small file sizes in scenarios when you want to get footage out quickly and will only be using it on social media, where it'll already be heavily compressed.
If you want to shoot with heavier codecs, the X-M5 is compatible with Fujifilm's optional cooling fan, which can help extend record times without using the LP modes and the cropping and loss of quality that come with them.
Three-microphone systemFujifilm has added an extra microphone to the camera to help distinguish between the audio you're trying to capture and ambient noise. Its UI lets you select whether you want it to let everything in, focus on audio from in front of the camera, behind the camera, or both. The last option could be useful if you're filming someone and talking to them from behind the camera.
The company also says the camera has improved wind reduction and added a new "Steady-State noise reduction" mode meant to make constant noises like air conditioners less noticeable.
If you'd rather plug in an external microphone, the X-M5 has cleverly placed the 3.5mm mic jack on the back of the camera, so the plug and cable won't block the screen when you're vlogging with it. The jack's cover is connected to the camera's body, so you don't have to keep track of a tiny piece of rubber when you're on the go.
Updated vlogging UIVlog mode isn't entirely new to Fujifilm's lineup: it appeared on the X-S20 as well, but the company has updated it for the X-M5, making it even easier to control the most important settings via the touchscreen.
Vlog mode has its own UI separate from the standard video recording interface. When you've selected Vlog on the control dial, the camera puts relatively large buttons on the touchscreen that allow you to control focus, access playback mode and start and stop recording.
The vlog mode UI has a clean layout with easy-to-press buttons for the most important functions.There's also a menu button that brings up controls for other settings, letting you control eye autofocus, electronic image stabilization, 'Portrait Enhancer' mode, background defocus mode, product priority mode, and more without flipping the camera around.
Pressing the Menu button gives you access to most of the options you'd need to control while vlogging. From left to right:
Top: Shooting mode, focus mode, image stabilization mode, Face/Eye Detection setting, Portrait enhancer
Bottom: Background defocus mode, Product priority mode, high-speed recording, self-timer, 9:16 short movie mode
While you'll still have to use the physical buttons on the back of the camera to change things like which codec, bitrate, or resolution you're recording in, vlog mode does a good job of putting most of the controls you'll need on the touchscreen without being overwhelming to newcomers.
9:16 short video modeThe camera also gains a 9:16 short video mode, which records vertical video by taking a 1080 x 1920 crop from the middle of the frame, rather than requiring you to physically turn the camera into portrait orientation. When you're shooting in this mode, the display will show you the full 16:9 image but darkens the frame outside what's being recorded. You can choose whether you want your clip to be 15, 30, or 60 seconds long.
9:16 short video mode shows you the entire preview, which could help if you want to move the camera while recording.The resulting videos will be small and quick to transfer to your phone for posting; by default the camera records them at an 8Mbps bitrate, though you can bump this up to 25Mbps. These bitrates, new for the X-M5, are also available across the camera's other video modes as well. File sizes will vary depending on what you're filming, but you can expect 60 second second clips shot at 8Mbps to usually be under 100 megabytes, or under 250MB if you shoot at 25Mbps.
The 15, 30 and 60-second record limits are upper boundaries, but you can stop recording before you hit the time limit; it's easy to imagine a worse version of this mode locking up your camera until the timer hits zero. If you want to record for longer than 60 seconds, you'll have to dig into the menus to switch to the 9:16 resolution mode, which also gives you control over codec and bitrate.
USB-to-smartphone transferFujiifilm also says you'll be able to use XApp transfer files from the X-M5 to your phone using a USB cable, which should be appreciably faster and more reliable than Wi-Fi. That's especially true given that the camera only supports an older Wi-Fi standard, not the faster 5Ghz standard.
In our tests, transferring a two-minute 4K video took around 28 seconds using a USB 4 cable and 11 minutes and 14 seconds using the camera's built-in Wi-Fi, so if you're someone who wants to capture something and post it right away, you'll definitely want to keep a cable within reach. That may be slightly annoying if you have an older iPhone, as you'll need a slightly more specialized USB-C to Lightning cable, but that should be less of a problem in the future as more and more people upgrade to phones with USB-C.
How it comparesThe X-M5 is far from the first small interchangeable lens camera pitched as a hybrid vlogging and photography tool.
This time, Fujifilm is using size, price, and convenience to make its offering more appealing to people who are used to shooting on their phones. While it's certainly bigger than a modern smartphone, it costs about as much as buying the latest iPhone outright, even with the kit lens, and its litany of vlogging features should make it easier to get professional-looking video.
Fujifilm's also leaning on design; it's a safe bet that many creators know what its cameras look like now, ever since the X100V went viral. From its film simulation dial to the mic jack that's apparently inspired by the look of tiny viewfinders on vintage cameras, the X-M5's design screams, "this is a camera you want to be seen with."
Fujifilm X-M5 Sony ZV-E10 II Sony a6100 Canon EOS R50 Fujifilm X-T30 II MSRP $799, $899 with 15-45mm $999, $1099 w/ 16-50mm OSS II $750, $850 w/ 16-50mm $679, $799 with 18-45mm $899, $999 with 15-45mm Pixel count 26 MP 26 MP 24 MP 24 MP 26 MP Mech shutter Yes No Yes Yes Yes Top plate command dials 2 1 1 1 2 Max burst rate8 fps (mechanical)
30 fps (e-shutter)
11 fps 11 fps12 fps
15 fps (elec)
8 fps (mechanical)
30 fps (e-shutter)
Rear screen 1.04M-dot fully articulated 1.04M dots fully articulated 921K dots tilting 1.62M dots fully articulated 1.04M dot fully articulated EVF No No 1.44M dots, 0.71x magnification 2.36M dots, 0.59x magnification 2.36M dots, 0.62x magnification Video capabilities- 6.2K/24p (3:2)
- 4K/60p (1.18x)
- 4K/30p, 24p no crop
- 10-bit
- 4K/60p (1.1x)
- 4K/30p, 24p no crop
- 10-bit
- 4K/30p 1.23x crop
- 4K/24p no crop
- 8-bit
- 4K/30p no crop
- 4K/30p no crop
- 10-bit HDR mode
- 4K/30p no crop
- 8-bit
The Sony ZV-E10 II is the most similar competitor to the X-M5. It, too, features a three-capsule microphone (though it comes with a handy wind cover for it), has background defocus and product showcase modes, and a microphone and headphone jack. It's arguably even more focused on video, with 10-bit internal recording and 4K/60p recording – though that focus comes at a cost for photography, as it lacks an EVF, just like the X-M5. Fujifilm's offering does at least include a mechanical shutter. Sony's autofocus tracking is also substantially stickier, especially in video.
Sony's a6100 can't quite match the X-M5's video specs, given its lack of a headphone port, 8-bit video, and crop in 4K/30p mode. However, its EVF will make it more enticing to people who want photography capabilities first and video second.
It's much the same story with the Fujifilm X-T30 II and the Canon EOS R50, though the latter distinguishes itself by being notably cheaper than the rest of the cameras in this lineup and by having the nicest display.
Body and handlingThe X-M5 is a very compact camera; compared to the Sony ZV-E10 II, it feels smaller than the minor differences in its dimensions would suggest. Part of that can likely be chalked up to its much shallower grip, but what's there is confidence-inspiring, especially when using the relatively small lenses that most people will likely pair with this camera.
While the camera is almost entirely plastic, it doesn't feel especially cheap. There are no creaks or squeaks when you're using it, the buttons are satisfyingly clicky, and the dials and hinges are reassuringly stiff.
Another nice touch is the inclusion of two top-plate command dials, which let you easily adjust your exposure settings without having to change your grip on the camera or switch to using the touchscreen. Of course, the target audience of vloggers and beginners may not be in the habit of manually adjusting exposure parameters, but it offers those users some room to grow.
You need good aim to hit the Q button.The Q button is less ideal. It's recessed and on the top of the camera rather than the back, which makes it a little difficult to access, especially when you're trying to change settings quickly. Also not helping matters are its small size and the fact that it's nestled between two large dials.
Given how many video features the camera has, it's also a bit disappointing that the slower UHS-I SD card slot is in the battery compartment on the bottom, which could make it difficult if you have a tripod plate installed. It's understandable why it isn't on the sides, which are mostly taken up by the headphone jack, USB-C port and micro-HDMI connecter, but it'll likely be a friction point for some users.
The camera doesn't have a D-pad. You can set focus with the touchscreen or joystick, and use swipes on the touchscreen to bring up menus of your choosing.The camera also gives you plenty of room for customization via the four 'C' settings on the mode selector dial. For example, you could set C1 up to use eye detection, C2 to be another subject detection mode, and C3 to be standard autofocus, letting you easily switch between them without ever touching the menu. You can also choose whether each custom slot will be a photo or video mode.
On the opposite side of the spectrum is the Auto mode, which gives the camera almost full control, while letting you make a few modifications to its choices if you see fit. it's a good inclusion for beginners new to the world of dedicated cameras, and doesn't restrict you from shooting Raw, in case you want to also learn how to make substantial edits to your photos.
The camera also has a likely less useful 'Filter' mode, which engages the camera's selectable Instagram-style filters to change the colors and add various effects such as vignetting. Anyone wanting to play around with the look of their image should probably reach for the Film Simulation dial instead, as its adjustments to your image's color and tone are generally more subtle and pleasing.
The mode dial also lets you switch the camera into video mode and vlog mode, which are two separate beasts. We've already covered the vlog-specific UI, but it's also worth noting that vlog mode and movie mode have separate settings, letting you quickly switch between entirely different modes of shooting.
BatteryThe X-M5 uses Fujifilm's 8.7 Wh NP-W126s battery, which has been around since the days of the original X-M1 and persists in modern cameras like the X-T50 – Fujifilm's higher-end, physically larger cameras have moved on to a new, higher-capacity model. It's rated to last around 330 shots or 440 if you're using eco mode. That'll likely be good for a day or so of shooting or a weekend of sporadic photography, though it's far from one of the best batteries in its class.
The camera has a USB-C port, which it can charge with even while in use.
Image QualityOur test scene is designed to simulate a variety of textures, colors, and detail types you'll encounter in the real world. It also has two illumination modes, full even light and low directional light, to see the effect of different lighting conditions.
Image ComparisonThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Click here to open it in a new browser window / tab.Looking at the Raws produced by the X-M5, it produces relatively detailed images, though most of its competitors capture slightly more detail despite having similar-resolution sensors. Some of that is likely because Adobe Camera Raw doesn't get the best from Fujifilm's proprietary 'X-Trans' color filter design, which helps prevent some of the false color that some of its competitors produce in areas of fine detail.
At higher ISOs, it tends to produce slightly less noise than its competitors, though by the top of the range, it has roughly the same level of noise.
As for its JPEG performance, the X-M5's sharpening at base ISO isn't quite as strong as Sony's or Canon's when it comes to making fine details pop. That trend continues into higher ISOs, where its noise reduction does a decent job at smoothing out noise but can't quite keep the finer details that its competitors can.
ColorsThe Velvia Film Simulation can be a bit heavy-handed for some people's tastes, but others like it.
Out of Camera JPEG
ISO 160 | 1/2700 sec | F2.8 | Fujifilm XF 27mmF2.8
One of the X-M5's main features is its 'Film Simulation' dial, which lets you quickly change the color mode for your JPEGs. The standard profile produces Fujifilm's typically pleasing colors, but if you want a more noticeably retro aesthetic, profiles like Classic Chrome or Nostaglic Negative are right at your fingertips.
Image Comparison SliderThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Please open this article's permalink in a browser to view this content. Dynamic RangeThe X-M5's dynamic range performance is similar to that of its competitors, which means it will handle most scenarios with bright lights and darker shadows reasonably well. However, you'll need to either adjust your exposure and work on the Raw files or use one of the camera's DR modes to get the most out of it.
It has Fujifilm's Dynamic Range modes that give you the option of capturing one or two extra stops of highlight information in high-contrast scenes. This can require an exposure reduction in bright scenes, which increases the noisiness of the image but provides a relatively simple way to get an out-of-camera JPEG without blown-out highlights.
ISO Invariance | Exposure Latitude
AutofocusThe X-M5's autofocus system is similar to the ones found on Fujifilm's higher-end cameras, such as the X-T50. It lets you choose anything from a fine AF point up to selecting the whole image area, which lets the camera select a subject. In continuous AF mode, there's also a 'Tracking' option that follows whatever is under the AF target when you half-press the shutter. You can use the joystick or the touchscreen to select a focus point.
It has AI-derived subject recognition, letting it recognize human faces / eyes, animals, birds, cars, motorcycles / bikes, airplanes and trains while taking pictures or videos.
The human settings are separate from the other subject detection modes, so switching between them can be a slight hassle since they're two separate menu items rather than humans being listed as one of the subject types.
Face and eye detection settings are in a separate menu.The subject recognition system works with the different focus point selection modes. For example, if you use a single point and have the camera set to recognize birds, it'll look for any birds around your chosen point. In our testing, the camera wasn't overly aggressive in focusing on a recognized subject; if we had facial recognition on and a human was somewhere in the frame, we could still focus on something else without the X-M5 fighting to focus on the face.
The X-M5 performed well in our basic autofocus test, which involves putting a single AF point on a subject and having the subject approach the camera at a consistent speed. A few photos throughout our three runs came out soft, but it got focus right on the vast majority.
Our autofocus tracking test is more complicated and requires the camera to follow a subject that's moving around the frame and approaching at a variable speed. Using basic tracking with no subject detection, the X-M5 struggled; it would consistently lose track of the subject the second or third time it slowed down and couldn't pick it back up.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
Switching to face detection yielded far better results, as the X-M5 was able to keep its focus point on the subject throughout the entire run. However, while the camera managed to keep track of the correct subject, it wasn't able to assess and respond to the changes in approach speed, meaning a handful of shots focused at the wrong distance.
At this point, it's clear that Fujifilm's tracking system is a fair bit behind the offerings of competitors like Nikon, Canon, and Sony, both in terms of the stickiness of general AF tracking and in terms of judging subject distance and keeping the subject in focus. While testing the X-M5, we also encountered a few situations where it would hunt back and forth for focus before eventually settling on the subject. This was more prevalent in low-light situations but would occasionally happen in daylight.
VideoThe X-M5 has a range of video modes, including UHD and DCI 4K at up to 60fps, 1080p at up to 240fps, and a 6240 x 4160 '6K' open-gate mode that lets you shoot full-sensor video at up to 30fps that can be cropped later, allowing a horizontal and vertical crop from the same footage, for instance.
Several video modes on the X-M5 require the camera to crop in, making the frame tighter, and turning on electronic image stabilization adds a further crop on top of those, though the amount will depend on your resolution and framerate. The UI makes it clear whenever you're shooting with a crop.
You don't have to change to video-appropriate settings when you switch modesThe camera also keeps your photo and movie settings largely separate; the white balance, exposure settings, and subject detection mode you pick in photo modes won't carry over to video mode, so you don't have to worry about quickly changing to a video-appropriate shutter speed every time you switch between modes. By default, the Film Simulation dial setting will carry over between photo and video modes, though you can prevent that by turning on Movie Optimized Control, an on-screen interface that lets you control your color mode and other video settings using the touchscreen when in video mode.
Despite being an entry-level camera, the X-M5 has several advanced video features. Open-gate video could be counted among them, since it generally needs to be edited before you can share it, which Fujifilm doesn't let you do within its app. You can also shoot in F-Log if you want flexibility to adjust color and contrast in post, and the camera supports 1/48 and 1/96 shutter speeds, which are perfect matches for shooting at 24fps. You can also use its autofocus illuminator as a front tally light to make clear when you're recording, and it even supports Tascam's XLR adapter for connecting professional-grade microphones, along with support for recording four-channel audio.
Video Performance Image ComparisonThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Click here to open it in a new browser window / tab.The X-M5's 4K video is relatively detailed, even managing to be just about as clean as other cameras' 'HQ' modes, which downsample their 4K video from higher-resolution capture, often at the cost of higher heat output or cropping.
Shooting above 30fps in 4K will result in some loss in quality, though switching to 4K LP mode doesn't seem to impact much, beyond the crop. Using the lower-bitrate modes can introduce some artifacts and loss of detail, but given that it's intended for social media that likely would've happened anyways after your file goes through a site's compression algorithm.
Rolling shutterIf you shoot fast-moving subjects with the X-M5 or move the camera quickly, there's a good chance you'll run into issues with rolling shutter, where the video gets a jello-like skewing effect.
Shooting mode Crop Rolling shutter rate 6K open-gate Full-width (3:2) 24ms 4K/24p Full-width (16:9) 21ms 4K/60p 1.18x 16ms 4K/24p LP 1.18x 16ms 1080p/24p Full-width (16:9) 13msGenerally, we'd consider 24ms of rolling shutter to be somewhat poor and 21ms to be at the very limit of what we'd consider acceptable. Fujifilm says its digital image stabilization helps correct rolling shutter, and our tests showed that it appeared to be applying some compensation, it also uses a smaller portion of the sensor, which helps further reduce rolling shutter a little.
OverheatingThe X-M5's relatively compact form factor makes it seem like it'd overheat easily, and the included LP modes imply that Fujifilm was at least worried enough about it that it wanted to include a workaround for shooting in extreme conditions. However, you may not have to worry about it much in everyday use, especially if you're mainly shooting indoors or in the shade; we tested the camera by shooting its full 4K UHD mode – not the cropped LP mode – and were able to get over an hour over continuous recording in ambient temperatures of around 24°C (76°F).
Vlogging FeaturesThe X-M5 has a Vlog setting on its mode dial, which gives you access to the special vlogging UI. To illustrate how it performs as a vlogging camera, we've produced a short vlog with it.
ConclusionBy Mitchell Clark
Pros Cons- Relatively affordable way into photography
- Compact, attractive design
- Excellent image quality with proven Fujifilm colors
- Can do flash photography if needed
- Capable video abilities for vlogging or basic filmmaking
- Good ergonomics
- Excellent lens selection
- Decent battery life when shooting stills
- Only has 2.4Ghz Wi-Fi
- Autofocus system struggles to predict subject distance, leading to disappointing hit-rate
- General AF tracking prone to losing its subject
- Switching between face and subject detection is a two-step process
- Screen can be difficult to see in the sun
- Cameras with viewfinders are available for similar money
- Shooting video can run the battery down quickly
If you're looking for a camera to take pictures and videos for social media, the X-M5 is, at the very least, worth your consideration. The Film Simulation dial makes it exceedingly easy to control Fujifilm's famous color modes, so you can pick the right one for your post, and the camera's design makes it relatively easy to control basic photo settings once you've got the hang of it.
That design is also attractive, which is important if you're going to be carrying it around all day and if people are potentially going to be taking pictures of you while you're holding it. Thankfully, it's not much of a chore to take it with you since it's relatively compact and lightweight, depending on what lens you have attached.
Of course, it doesn't matter how easy it is to tote a camera around if it doesn't actually outperform your phone when it comes to taking pictures. Thankfully, the X-M5's image quality is good enough to justify its place, and its surprisingly capable video modes make it relatively easy to get professional-looking results.
The big downside is its autofocusThe big downside – the one that earns it a Silver award instead of a Gold – is its autofocus. On a camera like this, you want it to be simple, effective and reliable, and it doesn't always nail all those points in the way its competitors can. While its subject detection works well, it can struggle to predict where to focus, an issue you might struggle to work around if you're not familiar with techniques like pre-focusing or zone focusing.
There are other quibbles, too. At this price point, most of its peers have a viewfinder, which some people will miss, and transferring photos to your phone can take a while which is unfortunate given that this camera is so focused on creators and social media.
Despite those complaints, the X-M5 can still be a joy to use after you've learned to work with it, and it has enough capabilities to grow with you as a photographer. While there are other sub-$1,000 cameras worth considering, it's an easy camera to recommend to those looking for what it offers.
ScoringScoring is relative only to the other cameras in the same category. Click here to learn about what these numbers mean.
Fujifilm X-M5Category: Entry Level Interchangeable Lens Camera / DSLRBuild qualityErgonomics & handlingFeaturesMetering & focus accuracyImage quality (raw)Image quality (jpeg)Low light / high ISO performanceViewfinder / screen ratingOpticsPerformanceMovie / video modeConnectivityValuePoorExcellentConclusionThe X-M5 nails most of the basics for taking photos and videos, especially for beginners.Good forBeginner photographers and fans of the 'GramNot so good forShooting fast-moving subjects or in bright light84%Overall scoreRegularScoreCompareWidget({"mainElementId":"scoringWidget","mainProduct":"fujifilm_xm5","scoringSchema":{"id":"SLRs","variables":[{"id":"BuildQuality"},{"id":"ErgonomicsAndHandling"},{"id":"Features"},{"id":"MeteringAndFocusAccuracy"},{"id":"QualityRaw"},{"id":"QualityJpeg"},{"id":"LowLightHighISO"},{"id":"ViewfinderScreenRating"},{"id":"Optics"},{"id":"Performance"},{"id":"Movie"},{"id":"Connectivity"},{"id":"Value"}],"categories":[{"id":"EntryLevel","label":"Entry Level Interchangeable Lens Camera / DSLR","shortLabel":"Entry Level"},{"id":"MidRange","label":"Mid Range Interchangeable Lens Camera / DSLR","shortLabel":"Mid Level"},{"id":"EntryLevelFullFrame","label":"Entry Level Full Frame Camera","shortLabel":"Entry Level Full Frame"},{"id":"MidRangeFullFrame","label":"Mid Range Full Frame Camera","shortLabel":"Mid Range Full Frame"},{"id":"SemiProfessional","label":"Semi-professional Interchangeable Lens Camera / DSLR","shortLabel":"Semi-professional"},{"id":"SemiProfessionalFullFrame","label":"Semi-professional Full Frame Camera","shortLabel":"Semi-professional Full Frame"},{"id":"Professional","label":" Professional Interchangeable Lens Camera / DSLR","shortLabel":"Professional"},{"id":"LargeSensorCompactEntry","label":"Entry Level Large Sensor Compact Camera","shortLabel":"Entry Level Large Sensor Compact"},{"id":"LargeSensorCompactEnthusiast","label":"Enthusiast Large Sensor Compact Camera","shortLabel":"Enthusiast Large Sensor Compact"},{"id":"VideoCamera","label":"Video Camera","shortLabel":"Video Camera"}]},"helpText":"Choose one or more cameras from the drop-down menu, then roll your mouse over the names to see how their scores compare to the camera on review."}) Compared to its peersThe Sony ZV-E10 II is a video camera that can also take pictures, whereas the X-M5 is a stills camera that can also do video. Sony's vlogging camera has a large record button front-and-center, a zoom toggle for powered lenses around its shutter button, and comes standard with a windscreen for its capsule microphone. Meanwhile, the X-M5 has a mechanical shutter and twin top-plate control dials. The Sony will have more reliable autofocus tracking, though it can't detect as many subjects as Fujifilm's system – vehicles are a notable absence. Its design is also much more utilitarian and not as pocketable.
Sony's a6100, meanwhile, is decent for photos with its inclusion of a mechanical shutter and an EVF. Its video modes are no match for the X-M5's, though – it can't shoot the easy-to-edit 10-bit video, doesn't have a headphone port and has a substantial crop when shooting anything above 4K 24p. It also has a tilting screen instead of a fully articulating one, making it worse for vlogging.
Fujifilm's X-T30 II is designed around photography fundamentals. It has an EVF, built-in flash and dedicated dials for exposure compensation, shutter speed, and drive mode, though not for Film Simulations. Its video specs aren't as capable, and its battery likely won't last as long, though its biggest weakness compared to the X-M5 is its older processor, which doesn't support the AI-derived subject detection modes. It does still support face and eye detection for humans, but that's it.
The Canon EOS R50 fares very similarly upon comparison; it, too, has an EVF and pop-up flash, but is larger and only has a single control dial. Its video also can't quite live up to the standard of the X-M5's, as it can't shoot 4K 60p at all, and while the APS-C lens selection for RF mount has improved since we originally reviewed the EOS R50, it's still substantially better on Fujifilm's system.
While the Nikon Z50 II hadn't been announced when we initially reviewed the X-M5, it's an obvious competitor – it, too, has a focus on color modes, with Nikon adding a direct control for them to the body. While we haven't fully tested the Z50 II, we expect its autofocus performance to be a cut above Fujifilm's, though there are substantially more APS-C-appropriate lenses available for X-mount compared to Z-mount.
Buy now:
$899 w/ 15-45 at Amazon.com$799 at Adorama$799 at B&H Photo Sample Gallery Sample galleryThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Click here to open it in a new browser window / tab. Pre-Production Sample Gallery Sample galleryThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Click here to open it in a new browser window / tab.Best fixed prime lens cameras in 2024
Updated December 18 2024
Fixed lens cameras may be a bit niche, but there's a reason they're so popular amongst photographers. They often come with some of the best lenses on the market, in a variety of focal lengths, matched to sensors ranging from APS-C to full-frame to give you the perfect field of view for your style of shooting.
Our picks range from pocketable models to larger cameras that you'll have to you'll have to consciously decide to take with you. They also cover a wide range of prices; while there sadly aren't any budget options, some come with much higher price tags than others, reaching well into the thousands of dollars.
Our picks:- Best fixed lens camera for patient people: Fujifilm X100 VI
- Best pocketable fixed lens camera: Ricoh GR III
- The Rolls Royce of fixed lens camera: Leica Q3 43
40MP BSI CMOS APS-C X-Trans sensor | 35mm equiv F2 lens | Hybrid viewfinder
Image: Richard ButlerBuy now:
$2199 at Amazon.com$1599 at Adorama$1599 at B&H Photo What we like:- Excellent build quality
- Subject-detection autofocus
- Now with in-body image stabilization
- Lens not especially fast to focus
- Hard to find in stock
Updated with in-body image stabilization rated at up to 6EV of correction and a 40MP BSI CMOS APS-C X-Trans sensor, the X100VI is a significant upgrade over its predecessor despite looking virtually identical. It features the same 35mm equivalent F2 lens and a hybrid viewfinder that lets you use it as a traditional rangefinder – with some digital augmentation if you want it – or as a modern, fully electronic viewfinder.
The addition of subject-recognition autofocus has given the X100VI the ability to recognize animals, birds, automobiles, motorcycles and bikes, airplanes, and trains. However, human (face/eye) detection is a separate mode. The lens is not the fastest to autofocus, prioritizing sharpness over speed, though that's not necessarily unique in this category.
The elephant in the room is that the X100VI has essentially been sold out since its initial release. However, if you're patient enough to sign up for waitlist notifications from a variety of sites, you may be able to get one in time.
It's probably worth the wait. While the X100VI has more dials and functions than previous versions, it still offers one of the most engaging photographic experiences out there. It's easy to see why it became so frustratingly unobtainable: It's an even better follow-up to a camera that was already popular with photographers of all kinds, and that had already sold out after going viral.
Click here to read our review of the Fujifilm X100VI
Click here to see the Fujifilm X100VI studio scene
Sample galleryThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Please open this article's permalink in a browser to view this content. Best pocketable fixed lens camera: Ricoh GR III24MP APS-C sensor | 28mm equiv. F2.8 lens | Wi-Fi + Bluetooth
Buy now:
Buy at Amazon.comBuy at AdoramaBuy at B&H Photo What we like:- Excellent image quality
- Good controls and ergonomics
- Truly pocketable
- Short battery life
- No built-in flash
- Sluggish AF in low light
The GR III is the lightest and most compact camera on this list by a long shot, thanks to its retracting lens and lack of a viewfinder. If size is a major concern for you, it's definitely the fixed lens option to look at.
The GR III's image quality is excellent, especially in Raw (we found the JPEG color to be a little drab). The lens is impressively sharp, and in-body image stabilization means you can confidently shoot down to around 1/10 sec. The built-in stabilizer can attempt to shake off dust particles that find their way to the sensor. "Offers direct control and excellent image quality in a pocketable camera" The GR III handles well, despite its size, thanks to well-placed controls, flexible customization options and a responsive touchscreen. The grip is just the right size for easy one-handed operation. The Ricoh GR III offers direct control and excellent image quality in a pocketable camera. Its short battery life and fixed focal length lens mean this camera certainly isn't for everyone, but it's a compelling offering for travel, street and casual photographers alike.Click here to read our review of the Ricoh GR III
Click here to see the Ricoh GR III studio scene
Sample galleryThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Please open this article's permalink in a browser to view this content. A different perspectiveRicoh also sells the GR IIIx, which is the same great camera as the standard GR III but with a 40mm equiv. lens instead. If you prefer the 'normal' field of view to a wider one, be sure to pick the IIIx up instead.
Sample galleryThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Please open this article's permalink in a browser to view this content.Buy now:
Buy at Amazon.comBuy at AdoramaBuy at B&H Photo The Rolls Royce of fixed lens cameras: Leica Q3 4343mm F2 stabilized lens | 60MP BSI CMOS full-frame sensor | 5.76M dot OLED EVF
Photo: Richard ButlerBuy now:
Buy at AdoramaBuy at B&H PhotoBuy at Leica What we like:- Excellent image quality
- Fast, dependable autofocus
- Good video support tools
- Subject recognition system could be better
- Auto white balance can be aggressively neutral/cool
- Significant price premium for the Leica name
While we've chosen the Q3 43 for its excellent control layout that puts photography first, the camera is also available with a 28mm F1.7 lens. There are minor cosmetic differences between the two Q3 models, such as the color of the leatherette wrap, but they're otherwise the same camera. There's also a price difference, with the 43 coming at a $600 premium.
Image quality is superb, with a lens that's very sharp and with high cross-frame consistency even at wide apertures. The light luminance noise reduction helps preserve detail at high ISOs. The Leica Q3 43 is a beautiful piece of engineering and design, and a welcome addition to the range. The controls are minimal, but help focus your attention on the fundamental settings of photography. It has the build quality that you'd expect of a luxury product. Autofocus is swift and precise, though the subject recognition system doesn't let you specify an AF point to pre-select a subject and can jump from one subject to another if there are multiple options in a scene. The Q3 43 is an impressive photographic tool, and manages to feel like a first-rate camera, not just a desirable object.Click here to read our review of the Leica Q3 43
Click here to see the Leica Q3 43 studio scene
Sample galleryThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Please open this article's permalink in a browser to view this content. The other full-frame optionDespite the fact that the RX1R II is almost a decade old at this point, you can still buy Sony's last compact full-frame fixed-lens camera. Unsurprisingly, as a nine-year-old camera, it's rather showing its age. Its autofocus and menu systems are significantly more primitive than we've subsequently become used to, but focus speed isn't exactly a strength for any of the cameras in its class. Its 35mm F2 lens is excellent, and its sensor still delivers excellent image quality. Battery life is atrocious, though, and we considered its performance sluggish even by 2016 standards.
We can't wholeheartedly recommend it after all this time, but if you've already made the seemingly irrational decision of buying an expensive camera with a single, fixed focal length that doesn't really even fit in your pocket, you might be the sort of person that gets some enjoyment out of opting for the slow, awkward, oddball choice.
Buy Now:
$3,298 at Amazon $3,298 at B&H $3,298 at Adorama Why should you trust us?Our Buying Guides are based on extensive use and testing of the cameras included. We only recommend cameras once we know how they compare to their peers in a variety of shooting situations. All selections are made solely by our editorial and video teams and are the models we'd buy or recommend to friends and family. We gain no financial advantage from recommending one camera over another, either as individuals or as a business.
Best cameras for landscape photography in 2024
Updated November 29 2024
Landscape photography is a demanding medium, requiring cameras with high resolution and dynamic range. When considering what cameras should make it on this list, we look at factors like weather-sealing, battery life and operability on a tripod.
We've selected cameras that are most likely to deliver the best possible image quality if you're going to spend hours hiking to the perfect location and waiting for the perfect light. For some picks, we've also considered the best image quality you can get at a certain size and weight of camera body.
Our picks:- Best camera for landscapes: Fujifilm GFX 100S II
- Best for landscapes and more: Sony a7R V
- Best camera that's also good for landscapes: Canon EOS R5 II
- The bargain option: Nikon Z7 II
- Best compact option: Fujifilm X-T5
102MP BSI medium format sensor | In-body image stabilization | 5.76M dot viewfinder
Image: FujifilmBuy now:
$4999 at Amazon.com$4999 at Adorama$4999 at B&H Photo What we like:- Excellent detail capture
- Very high tonal quality
- Ready-to-go JPEG or malleable Raws
- Autofocus not especially fast
- Video prone to rolling shutter
The GFX 100S II uses the same sensor as the GFX 100 II, but puts it in a body with fewer features – though you do still get essentials like a tilting screen and a stabilized sensor. The result is the only camera with anywhere near this resolution that fits within the price limit of our buying guides, though do keep in mind that you'll also have to budget for medium-format lenses too, which don't come cheap.
While the GFX 100S II has improved autofocus and burst rates compared to its predecessor, its main strength will be landscapes or studio work where it won't have to track dynamic subjects. That makes it slightly less versatile than most of its full-frame competitors, but if you're doing purely landscape photography its image quality will be unparalleled unless you're willing to spend many thousands of dollars more.
Sample galleryThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Please open this article's permalink in a browser to view this content. Best camera for landscapes and more: Sony a7R V61MP BSI CMOS sensor | 8K/30p video | Subject recognition AF
The a7R V's articulating and tilting screen makes sure you can see your composition no matter what position you have the camera in.
Photo: Richard Butler
Buy now:
Buy at Amazon.comBuy at AdoramaBuy at B&H Photo What we like:- Very detailed Raw files with excellent dynamic range
- Tilt/articulating display suits both photo and video
- Very reliable autofocus, especially for human subjects
- Pixel shift high res and focus stacking require desktop s/w
- Severe rolling shutter for e-shutter and many video modes
While it's one of the highest-resolution full-frame cameras, the a7R V is quite capable for everyday photography as well, with Sony's excellent autofocus system and 10 fps burst rates. It's not the camera you want if you shoot action or video as often as landscapes, but it can do those things if needed.
The a7R V offers excellent image quality in both JPEG and Raw, giving some of the best results we've seen for its sensor size, though using lossless compressed Raw significantly reduces the burst speed. A multi-shot 240MP high-res mode (combined using desktop s/w) gains a motion-correction function, making it much more usable. The a7R V is an excellent tool for capturing high-resolution images. The body is solidly-built and features a large grip and well-positioned controls, along with a large, high-res viewfinder. A fully-articulating rear touchscreen is mounted on a tilting cradle, adding flexibility. The menus are much improved over older Sony models. The a7R V is an excellent tool for capturing high-resolution images with a mechanical shutter. The impressive autofocus performance means it is suitable for capturing a wide variety of subjects, including sports and wildlife. However, the sensor's slow readout limits its capabilities if your work requires video capture or the use of a silent electronic shutter.Click here to read our review of the Sony a7R V
Click here to see the Sony a7R V studio scene
Sample galleryThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Please open this article's permalink in a browser to view this content. Best camera that's also good for landscapes: Canon EOS R5 II45MP Stacked CMOS sensor | Eye-controlled AF subject selection | Up to 30fps continuous shooting
Photo: Richard ButlerBuy now:
$4299 at Amazon.com$4299 at Adorama$4299 at B&H Photo What we like:- Excellent image quality
- Fast, dependable autofocus
- Good video support tools
- Slight reduction in dynamic range in extreme scenarios
- Tempermental eye control
- Temperature limits in heaviest video modes
If you need a camera that can handle whatever you throw at it, including the occasional landscape photo, the EOS R5 II is the one. Its sensor isn't the highest resolution, but it makes up for it with speed, letting you shoot up to 30fps. It also has the most capable autofocus system on this list, with its dedicated 'Action Priority' modes made specifically for shooting high-speed sports.
The 45MP Raws are highly detailed, and the JPEG sharpening and noise reduction are sensible. It can't quite match higher-resolution cameras like the A7R V, but performs well in its own right. The EOS R5 II does a vast range of things, most of them extremely well: it's impressive for action, landscapes, video, you name it. The grip is very well-shaped and proportioned, and the controls are all well-placed and comfortable to use for extended periods. Eye Control for autofocus is excellent when it works, which isn't always The EOS R5 II has excellent tracking and subject-tracking autofocus performance. The subject detection is effective without getting in your way. It can shoot Raws at up to an extremely rapid 30fps. The EOS R5 II excels at almost everything it tries to do, and that's a long list. It's hard to imagine what photo or video need it won't support you in.Click here to read our review of the Canon EOS R5 II
Click here to see the Canon EOS R5 II studio scene
Sample galleryThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Please open this article's permalink in a browser to view this content. Also consider: the Nikon Z8The Nikon Z8 is similalry capable to the EOS R5 II, and its 45.7MP sensor is just as able to take beautiful landscapes, while still handling anything else you throw at it. The two cameras are so evenly matched that the best way to choose between them is by comparing which lenses are available for them, figuring out which system has the ones you want at a price you want to pay, then buying the body to match.
Buy now:
Buy at Amazon.comBuy at AdoramaBuy at B&H Photo The bargain option: Nikon Z7 II45.7MP full-frame sensor | In-body image stabilization | 4K/60p video
Photo: Dan BracagliaBuy now:
Buy at Amazon.comBuy at AdoramaBuy at B&H Photo What we like:- Sensor offers some of the best image quality in its class
- Lovely ergonomics
- 4K/60p (with a minor crop)
- Autofocus interface a bit clunky
- EVF not as high-res as competitors
- Customization a bit limited
The Z7 II is decidedly last-generation at this point, a fact you'll feel most in its autofocus system. It can still produce crisp images, though, and its age is a benefit when it comes to its price: you can routinely find it for around $2,000, a price bracket that generally contains cameras with half the resolution.
The Z7 II's image quality frequently impresses. It'll match its peers in everything except resolution and, in situations where you can use the greater exposure needed for ISO 64, it has an edge in terms of tonal quality. JPEGs are good but we got the best result from the Raw files. To say the Z7 II is a comfortable camera to hold would be an understatement The Z7 II provides plenty of well-placed controls and a large handgrip, despite its relatively compact body. The additional option to add a battery grip with duplicate controls is valuable. We'd like more control over what can be applied to custom buttons and we miss the AF mode control from the front of Nikon's DSLRs, though.\The Z7 II is a capable camera that can produce superb image quality. Its autofocus performance and interface aren't quite up there with modern mid-to-high-end cameras, but overall it's a good, capable camera. The improvements over the original version help expand the range of circumstances in which it performs well.
Click here to read our review of the Nikon Z7 II
Click here to see the Nikon Z7 II studio scene
Sample galleryThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Please open this article's permalink in a browser to view this content. The compact option: Fujifilm X-T5 Photo: Richard ButlerBuy now:
$1599 at Amazon.com What we like:- Dedicated dial interface shows your settings
- Detailed 40MP images
- Photo-centric design and feature set
- Autofocus prone to false-positives
- Significant rolling shutter in e-shutter mode
- Smaller buffer, lower-spec video than X-H2
If the landscapes you're hoping to capture are far off the beaten path, the X-T5 may be worth a look. While it's marginally smaller and lighter than its full-frame and medium-format counterparts, the real weight savings will come from the lenses you can equip it with. Fujifilm's lineup of APS-C lenses is unmatched, and can make for a kit light enough that you won't have to reconsider hiking an extra mile or three to get the shot.
The X-T5 produces highly detailed Raw and JPEG files, with the latter benefiting from Fujifilm's array of attractive 'Film Simulation' color modes. A 40MP APS-C sensor means relatively high pixel-level noise but results that are competitive when viewed at a common output size. The X-T5 foregoes some of the X-H2's video features to offer a more photo-centric experience with classic styling The X-T5 features dedicated control dials for ISO, shutter speed and exposure compensation, along with a film-era SLR-style low-profile front grip. Its rear screen tilts up and down but also hinges outward for portrait-orientation shooting. Having the X-H2 and X-H2S available to meet the needs of videographers allows the X-T5 to fulfill photographers' desires for stills-centric handling and features. For photographers who enjoy Fujifilm's traditional dial-based controls, there's no more capable body than the X-T5.Click here to read our review of the Fujifilm X-T5
Click here to see the Fujifilm X-T5 studio scene
Sample galleryThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Please open this article's permalink in a browser to view this content. Also consider: the Canon EOS R7Canon's EOS R7 is a bit heavier than the X-T5, and its APS-C lens selection isn't nearly as robust, but its 32.5MP sensor will be more than capable of capturing detailed landscapes. Its faster burst rates and better autofocus tracking also give the edge over the X-T5 for when you're shooting in the city instead of the wild.
Buy now:
Buy w/ RF-S18-150mm F3.5-6.3 IS STM at Amazon.comBuy at AdoramaBuy at B&H Photo Why should you trust us?Our Buying Guides are based on extensive use and testing of the cameras included. We only recommend cameras once we know how they compare to their peers in a variety of shooting situations. All selections are made solely by our editorial and video teams and are the models we'd buy or recommend to friends and family. We gain no financial advantage from recommending one camera over another, either as individuals or as a business.
The 7 Best compact zoom cameras in 2024
Updated Nov 27, 2024
It's sad to say, but the golden age of compact cameras is pretty much over, thanks to the rise of smartphone cameras that are, in many cases, good enough for most people. Manufacturers seem to realize this, too; we last updated this list in 2023, and since then, there haven't really been any new additions to it. The ones that remain can also be difficult to find in stock, even when the companies that make them say they're still a part of their lineups.
However, that doesn't mean the category is completely dead. Even today, there are several types of compact cameras, and some have capabilities that pretty much no phone can match. This list calls out the few that are still available and looks at what they're good for – because there are still cases where a compact camera is a great option.
Our recommendations: Enthusiast compactsThe final niche in which it's difficult for a smarphone to compete is for enthusiast photography. No matter how good smartphone image quality gets, it's difficult for a phone to provide the feeling of connection to the process of taking photos that an enthusiast compact with lots of direct controls can offer.
We've picked three cameras with large sensors that deliver good image quality, zoom lenses and direct controls. Both Sony models have built-in electronic viewfinders, for shooting when it's bright outside, again giving a more pleasant experience than trying to use a smartphone.
Best enthusiast compact: Canon PowerShot G7X III20MP Type 1 Stacked CMOS sensor | 24-100mm equiv. F1.8-2.8 lens | 4K/30p video capture
Photo: Dan BracagliaBuy now:
$749 kit at B&H Photo $749 at Adorama $749 at Amazon What we like:- Nice grip and well-placed controls
- 4K/30p recording with live streaming to YouTube
- Fast burst shooting
- Lens is soft at wide-angle
- Limited battery life
- Contrast-detect only autofocus
The Canon PowerShot G7X III is an enthusiast compact built around a 20MP Type 1 (13.2 x 8.8mm) Stacked CMOS sensor with a bright 24-100mm equivalent F1.8-2.8 zoom.
The large sensor, and zoom that covers a really useful range help set it apart from a smartphone but it's really the clicking control dial around the lens and the dedicated exposure compensation dial that help you feel you're in the driving seat of the photo-taking process that makes us enjoy it so much.
This is one of the cameras that's frequently out of stock, but in November 2024 Canon assured us that it's still in production and that the company is "working to meet the consumer demand of the PowerShot G7 X Mark III."
"If you're after a pocketable high-quality compact, the Canon G7 X Mark III is well worth a look" Though it's jacket-pocketable, the G7 X Mark III has a decent-sized grip and feels secure in the hand. The 'clicky' control rings around the lens and on the rear of the camera give good control over aperture, shutter speed and ISO, and the exposure compensation dial on the top plate is a nice touch. The touchscreen interface on its tilting 3" LCD is polished and responsive. Overall, we're impressed by the upgrades on this model. The Mark III brings improved video and continuous shooting performance while maintaining excellent controls and a competitive price point. If you do a lot of wide-angle shooting, there are options with better lenses, but if you're after a pocketable high-quality compact, the Canon G7 X Mark III is well worth a look.Read our Canon Powershot G7X III review
See the Canon Powershot G7X III studio scene
Sample galleryThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Please open this article's permalink in a browser to view this content. Also worth consideringThe Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VA is also worth a look, offering a short, bright 24-70mm equivalent zoom. This is a little shorter than the one on the Canon but we've found it to be more consistently sharp, on the units we've tested. It has a pop-up viewfinder, adding to the appeal but also to the price. The Sony's autofocus is faster and more dependable than the Canon's but we prefer the handling of the Canon, thanks to its exposure compensation dial and clicking front control wheel.
Best do-it-all compact: Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII20MP Type 1 Stacked CMOS sensor | 24-200mm equiv. F2.8-4.5 lens | Hybrid AF system
Photo: Dan BracagliaBuy now:
$1298 at B&H $1298 at Adorama $1298 at Amazon What we like:- Industry-leading autofocus
- Excellent image quality
- Oversampled 4K video
- User interface can be overwhelming
- Low light performance limited by slow lens
- Slippery grip
- Expensive
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII is built around a 20MP Stacked CMOS sensor and a long, flexible 24-200mm equivalent lens. It's not as bright at the long end as the zooms on the Mark VA or the Canon G7X III but it provides a lot more reach, still in a compact package.
The RX100 VII is the most capable pocketable camera ever made The RX100 VII has a limited number of direct controls, but offers extensive customization for making the most of them. A touchscreen can be used for choosing a focus point or initiating AF tracking in video. The camera also includes the single-press pop-up viewfinder we liked so much on its predecessor. The RX100 VII is easily the most-capable compact camera on the market thanks to its great image and video quality, fast shooting, versatile lens and a highly-capable, easy-to-use AF system, though all of that comes with a high price tag.Read our Sony RX100 VII review
See the Sony DSC-RX100 VII studio scene
Sample galleryThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Please open this article's permalink in a browser to view this content. Waterproof camerasWaterproof cameras are another specialty that smartphones can't necessarily displace. Many flagship phones are waterproof to a decent degree but you shouldn't try to submerge them to any appreciable depth. Waterproof cameras also tend to be pretty rugged, designed to withstand a lot more mistreatment than a phone will withstand, meaning you can carry them with you at all times, without ever having to worry about it. Great for bikers, climbers and custodians of small, inquisitive but not necessarily careful children.
Best waterproof camera: OM System Tough TG-725-100mm equiv. F2.0-4.9 lens | 12MP Type 1/2.3 sensor | Waterproof to 15m (50ft)
Buy now:
$550 at B&H $550 at Adorama $532 at Amazon What we like:- Bright, wideangle lens
- Built-in GPS, compass and manometer
- Raw image capture allowing creating edits
- Range of accessories
- 12MP is fairly low
- Lens isn't very bright at long end
- Limited battery life
- Relatively expensive
The OM System Tough TG-7 is a rugged, waterproof compact with a 25-100mm equivalent zoom lens. It is fully waterproof down to a depth of 15m (50 ft).
The OM System isn't the only rugged waterproof still on the market, nor the cheapest, but it has several major factors in its favor. The first is that it lets you shoot Raw images, which gives you the ability to correct the white balance, which even the best cameras tend to get wrong when shooting underwater. Another factor is that there is a range of accessories for the TG-7, including a light guide that directs light from the built-in flash into a circle around the lens, letting you illuminate close-up objects.
"The TG-7 is relatively expensive but packs in a host of useful features that help it stand out"Beyond this there are a few details that different users may find handy: it has an unusually wide-angle lens with a bright maximum aperture, helping the performance underwater and in low light. It also has a built-in GPS, compass and pressure sensor that lets you log your adventures. These all add up to a camera that's worth the added expense, we feel.
Read our hands-on with the OM System TG-7 article
Sample galleryThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Please open this article's permalink in a browser to view this content. Long zoom camerasPerhaps the greatest weakness of smartphones is their lack of zoom capabilities. Many of the best phones have a camera with a slightly longer focal length and then try to crop into their images and use AI algorithms to try to approximate the fine detail to give the impression of zooming, but this has its limits.
Dedicated cameras aren't constrained by the need to slip into your pocket, which can afford them the space to have an optical zoom lens to gain you more reach than your smartphone can deliver. There can be a trade-off: the small sensors required to put lots of zoom in a relatively small camera will be outshone by the computational cleverness that modern smartphones will bring to bear on their images. But superzoom cameras can gain you the kind of reach that no current smartphone can get near.
Best long-zoom camera: Panasonic FZ1000 II20MP Type 1 BSI-CMOS sensor | 25-400mm equiv. F2.8-4 lens | 4K/30p video capture
Photo: Dan BracagliaBuy now:
Buy at B&H Photo What we like:- Relatively fast lens with versatile focal range
- Fully articulating touchscreen
- Responsive AF performance
- "Flutter" when focusing is distracting
- Substantial crop in 4K
- Body feels too "plasticky" for its price
The FZ1000 II predates Panasonic's switch to phase-detect autofocus, so it tends to hunt for focus. However, it can shoot at burst rates up to 7fps, and its 25-400mm equiv F2.8-4 lens gives you plenty of reach while still offering a fair amount of light-gathering ability.
The FZ1000 II has a comfortable grip and twin control dials, but its all-plastic construction doesn't live up to its price. It's extensively customizable, with an array of physical and on-screen buttons. The OLED EVF is very good. Its versatile lens, snappy autofocus speeds, large EVF and 4K video capabilities should make it one of the better cameras in its class. The FZ1000's image quality is good for its class. The camera doesn't capture as much detail as we'd like and, if you're up to it, shooting Raw and post-processing will get the most out of the camera. The FZ1000 II captures 4K UHD video at 30p and 24p, though there is a substantial crop which narrows your field of view (this is not an issue at 1080). The autofocus system tends to 'hunt' for focus on occasion. The camera has a good set of video controls and a mic input socket. The FZ1000 was a solid camera and the improvements on its successor make it even better. While not best-in-class, its versatile lens, good image and video quality and reasonable price make the FZ1000 II well worth considering.Read our Panasonic FZ1000 II review
See the Panasonic FZ1000 II studio scene
Sample galleryThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Please open this article's permalink in a browser to view this content. The retired champIn its day, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX10 IV offered better performance and autofocus than the Panasonic, though at a substantially higher cost. In 2024, however, it's no longer available at retail, and the FZ1000 II is. If you manage to find an RX10 IV somewhere and are interested in a long-zoom compact, it's still worth snapping up – it's possible it'll be the best of its kind that was ever made.
Best ultra-zoom camera: Nikon Coolpix P100016MP 1/2.3" BSI-CMOS sensor | 24-3000mm equiv. F2.8-8 lens | 4K video capture
Photo: Barney BrittonBuy now:
$997 at B&H $997 at Adorama What we like:- Focal range cannot be matched by any camera
- Respectable image quality, given camera's purpose
- Raw support
- Well-built, with logical control layout
- Large and unbalanced when zoom is extended
- Lens is slow at long end, reducing sharpness
- No touchscreen
- Poor battery life
The Nikon Coolpix P1000 is a small sensor camera with a vast zoom lens. The Type 1/2.3 (6.17 x 4.55mm) sensor will be out-performed by a good smartphone's clever merging of multiple images but the Nikon's gargantuan 24-3000mm equiv lens is its selling point.
The small sensor means image quality isn't the camera's strength, but its frankly ludicrous zoom reach means it can photograph distant subjects in a way no other device (smartphone or dedicated camera) can.
The P1000 is a large camera that weighs a substantial 1.4kg (3.2lbs). We found it can be difficult to compose a photo at 3000mm equiv since the stabilization can't fully correct hand movement. A 'snapback' function quickly zooms out so you can locate your subject. The P1000's fully articulating LCD, is not touch-enabled. Connectivity to smartphones works well. "When it comes to zoom power, there's no camera that comes close to Nikon's Coolpix P1000" The P1000's image quality depends greatly on the focal length. Photos are generally on par with other small-sensored cameras, with pleasant colors and a bit too much noise reduction. It offers Raw, though, so you can choose your noise/detail balance and modestly brighten shadows. Heat haze, coupled with the lens's slow maximum aperture limit image quality at the longest focal lengths. The P1000 has very good video quality for a camera with point-and-shoot roots. It can capture 4K video at 30p (with no crop) as well as 1080/60p and time-lapse/super-lapse clips. There's a manual exposure mode, a zoom microphone and a socket for addition an external mic. Electronic Vibration Reduction is available at 1080p and below. When it comes to zoom power, nothing comes close to Nikon's Coolpix P1000. Whether it's taking a portrait from 2 blocks away or getting up close and personal with a bird in the distance, this lens can do it. That said, while other cameras can't match that lens, many will offer better image and video quality for the same money, especially those with larger sensors.Read our Nikon Coolpix P1000 review
See the Nikon Coolpix P1000 studio scene
Sample galleryThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Please open this article's permalink in a browser to view this content. Vlogging camerasSmartphones are great for vlogging, but a dedicated vlogging camera can shoot better quality video, have more sophisticated microphones (and provide options for connecting better mics), and can autofocus very reliably, dependably delivering YouTube-ready footage.
Best vlogging camera: Sony ZV-1 Mark II20MP Stacked CMOS sensor | 24fps burst shooting | 4K/30p, 1080/120p video
Photo: Shaminder DulaiBuy now:
$898 at B&H $898 at Adorama $898 at Amazon What we like:- Low rolling shutter
- 3-way mic array
- Touchscreen interface for vlogging
- Limited body buttons/dials
- No stabilization for stills
- 8-bit color not ideal for grading
The Sony ZV-1 Mark II is one of three ZV-1 models and is by far the best. Its wide-angle 18-50mm equivalent F2.8-4.0 lens is ideally suited to self-shot video. Its excellent autofocus includes options such as 'Product Showcase' that focuses on the presenter, unless an object is held up to the camera.
A vlogging beast for smartphone users wanting to upgrade to a dedicated device for more control over exposures, file workflow, sound and optical zoom without a large learning curve. The ZV-1 Mark II is primarily touchscreen-controlled to allow control while vlogging or shooting selfies. It's lightweight and easy to hold but has limited control points if you want to take more manual control. The ZV-1 Mark II is a big improvement on the original thanks to a more selfie-video-friendly zoom range. Video footage and autofocus are both very good. It is a camera that thrives in auto modes, making it best suited for users seeking a simple-to-use camera.See the Sony ZV-1 Mark II studio scene
Sample galleryThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Please open this article's permalink in a browser to view this content. Why you should trust usThis buying guide is based on cameras used and tested by DPReview's editorial team. We don't select a camera until we've used it enough to be confident in recommending it, usually after our extensive review process. The selections are purely a reflection of which cameras we believe to be best: there are no financial incentives for us to select one model or brand over another.
The Best cameras under $1000 in 2024
$1000 might sound like a lot of money for a camera, but it's probably the least we'd recommend spending if you want to go beyond phone photography. The picks on this list will give you more control than a phone and offer a more satisfying photographic experience.
At this price point, your main options will be entry-level interchangeable lens cameras or enthusiast-tier compact cameras with a built-in lens. Compact cameras offer more control than a phone and a greater zoom range, but – despite having sensors that are around 60% larger – likely won't offer a huge jump in image quality compared to the latest flagship phones.
Meanwhile, an interchangeable lens camera won't be as easy to carry around and comes with the added expense of lenses. However, they can make you feel even more involved in the photographic process, and the flexibility of swappable lenses will let you learn and grow into different types of photography as you develop your passion. They also feature much larger sensors than phones and the majority of compacts.
It's worth noting that camera makers sometimes assume that beginners will stick with the basic 'kit' zoom that comes with the camera, so it's worth checking whether a good selection of lenses is available (at a price you're willing to spend) before deciding which brand's system to buy into.
Our recommendations:- Best camera under $1000: Canon EOS R10
- The better performer: Nikon Z50II
- The affordable kit: Sony a6100
- Best compact camera under $1000: Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VA
- Best camera for content creators under $1000: Fujifilm X-M5
24MP Dual Pixel APS-C CMOS sensor | 4K/30p video (60p with crop) | 15fps shooting (23fps with e-shutter)
Photo: Shaminder DulaiBuy now:
Buy at Amazon.comBuy at AdoramaBuy at B&H Photo What we like:- Capable stills and video camera
- Simple, effective AF in stills
- Relatively easy-to-use
- Video autofocus is less effective than stills
- Mediocre battery life
- Few sensible RF lens choices
There are a few things that earn it the top place of this list. The first is its stand-out usability, with dual top-plate dials for controlling exposure settings and a joystick to control its very capable autofocus system. It also has a decent selection of lenses; third parties like Sigma have stepped in to round-out the selection of primes and higher-end zoom lenses available for it, meaning you've got a lot of good options if you want to move beyond the kit lens that came with it.
The R10 has a powerful AF tracking system with subject recognition that makes it especially good at focusing on people, animals and vehicles. We found it both easy to use and effective. 15fps shooting with the mechanical shutter is good, though the buffer is limited. "The EOS R10 is an approachable, capable option for stills and video" The R10 has a relatively small body but finds room for two command dials. Most key settings can be accessed through the Q menu, making it easy to access the camera's core functions. The R10 can shoot 4K video at up to 60p with a crop, or 30p using its full sensor width. The footage isn't the most detailed but, as in stills mode, there's the option to shoot footage for HDR TVs. Autofocus isn't as dependable as it is in stills mode.With the EOS R10 Canon has re-created the capability and usability of its popular Rebel series DSLRs in its RF mirrorless lens mount. Now that there's a wider variety of lenses available for it, it's an excellent pick for those looking to get into photography.
See Canon EOS R10 studio scene
Sample galleryThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Please open this article's permalink in a browser to view this content. The other optionsWhile we much prefer the higher level of control that the EOS R10 provides, the less expensive Canon EOS R50 may also be worth a look if you're extremely budget-conscious but still want to stay in the Canon ecosystem. It has fewer control points – most notably, it misses out on the EOS R10's joystick – and it loses out on features such as 4K/60p video capture and an articulating display, but it's still pretty capable.
We don't recommend the cheaper still EOS R100. It's based on a previous generation of technology, so it's slower and has less sophisticated autofocus.
The better performer: Nikon Z50II20.9MP APS-C sensor | Subject recognition AF | Full-width 4K video up to 30p
Photo courtesy NikonBuy now:
$1049 w/ 16-50mm at Amazon.com$906 at Adorama$906 at B&H Photo What we like:- Twin top-plate control dials
- Simple tracking AF w/ subject recognition
- Strong video specs
- No sensor stabilization
- Weak battery life
- Limited zoom lens selection
The Z50II makes a case for being the best pick for beginners, thanks to a simple and effective AF system with automatic subject detection. However, while plenty of prime lenses are available, Nikon appears to be blocking bright zooms from third-party makers, limiting your upgrade options compared with its rivals.
It has a solid grip, twin top-plate control dials, and a wide variety of customizable buttons, including one that, by default, controls color mode. Focusing is handled using the touchscreen or four-way controller. The Z50II delivers on the basics without breaking the bank. The Z50II can shoot full-width UHD 4K at 30fps, but requires a 1.5x crop to hit 60fps. It has video-focused features like a tally light, waveform monitoring, N-Log, and headphone and microphone jacks. The Z50II looks like a solid camera, with several features from Nikon's higher-end cameras. The lack of a stabilized sensor could be frustrating when shooting video, and the limited lens selection could hurt the camera's ability to grow with you as a photographer.Read our Nikon 50II Initial Review
Sample galleryThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Please open this article's permalink in a browser to view this content. What about the Z fc?Nikon's Z fc is a stylish camera based on the original Z50, which means it has the same sensor as the Z50II. We like it a lot, but the autofocus on the Z50II is such a marked improvement that it's hard to recommend picking up a Z fc at this point – you can read our full comparison between the two cameras here. If you have a strong attachment to the Z fc's aesthetics, your best option is probably holding-off for a bit to see if Nikon updates the Z fc. If that's not an option, see if you can get it on sale or used.
The affordable kit: Sony a610024MP APS-C sensor | Hybrid AF with Real-time Tracking | 4K video capture
The Sony a6100 offers a lot of power in a compact, well-priced body. The 16-50mm power zoom isn't the best, though.
Photo: Richard Butler
Buy now:
Buy at Amazon.comBuy at Adorama$598 at B&H Photo What we like:- Excellent autofocus system
- 4K/30p video recording
- Tilting touchscreen LCD
- Less robust build quality
- Rolling shutter 'jello effect' present in 4K video
- Crop when recording 4K/30p video
It was a very capable and affordable camera when it was launched several years ago, offering some of the best autofocus around and a wide selection of lenses. The latter part is still an advantage, but many competitors' autofocus systems are now on par with, or even more capable than, the a6100's. However, it's still worth considering if you want to get both a camera body and a decent lens for under $1,000.
The a6100 is the most basic model in the a6000-series and doesn't feel quite as robust as its step-up siblings. It offers a lower-resolution electronic viewfinder, and twin control dials that are both thumb-operated. Its touchscreen flips upward 180-degrees for easy selfie framing and vlogging. It also uses Sony's old menu system, which can be a chore to work with.
"The a6100's autofocus can effortlessly track whatever you point it at" Sony's autofocus system has been trained to recognize people and pets as subjects, and will follow them flawlessly throughout the frame. Coupled with the ability to touch the screen to place a focus point, it's a system that will serve beginner users very well, whatever they're shooting. The a6100 makes it easy to record 4K footage or slow-motion 1080 video. There's a socket to connect an external mic but no way to connect headphones for monitoring. It can be set up for tap-to-track autofocus in video, too. There's significant 'jello-effect' distortion in the 4K footage though, especially in 24p mode. The a6100 is a good entry-level camera with a very powerful, easy-to-use autofocus system. We're not huge fans of the kit zoom and the interface isn't especially welcoming, but with a few settings changes, it can help you get excellent shots, easily.See the Sony a6100 studio scene
Sample galleryThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Please open this article's permalink in a browser to view this content. Best compact camera under $1000: Sony Cyber-shot DSC RX100 Va20MP 1" Stacked CMOS sensor | 24-70mm equiv. F1.8-2.8 lens | 4K video capture
The RX100 VA can deliver excellent image quality, backed up by good autofocusBuy now:
Buy at Amazon.comBuy at AdoramaBuy at B&H Photo What we like:- Excellent photo quality
- Very good AF for a compact
- 24 fps burst shooting with deep buffer
- Interface and controls can be overwhelming
- No touchscreen
- Limited battery life
The Sony Cybershot DSC-RX100 VA is an updated RX100 V with the same 20MP Stacked CMOS sensor, fast 24-70mm equiv. lens, hybrid AF system, clever popular viewfinder and excellent 4K video quality. The 'VA' adds a larger buffer, new metering, white balance and AF modes, an improved EVF refresh rate and more.
Sony essentially created this class of cameras with the original RX100 model. A large sensor gives image quality that's still a match for a good smartphone but with the benefit of an actual zoom lens. The Stacked CMOS sensor and a built-in viewfinder add to the cost but also create a very powerful camera.
"Offers the best combination of photo and video quality, autofocus and speed of any compact camera" Handling and ergonomics are the RX100 series' weak point, and they're most enjoyable when used as point-and-shoots in auto modes. But nothing else offers this combination of photo and video quality, speed and compactness, and the viewfinder makes it useable in a wide range of circumstances.The RX100 VII is also worth a look. It's more expensive, and its lens is slower, taking away some of the low light performance, but it offers a much longer zoom, giving still more benefit over a smartphone.
Read our Sony Cyber-shot RX100 V review
See the Sony Cyber-shot DSC RX100 V studio scene
Sample galleryThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Please open this article's permalink in a browser to view this content. Best camera for content creation: Fujifilm X-M526MP APS-C BSI CMOS sensor | Fully articulated 3" LCD | 6.2K 3:2 video up to 30p
What we like:- Great JPEG colors with dedicated dial
- Solid selection of vlogging features and UI
- Good level of direct control
- No viewfinder
- AF tracking performance isn't the strongest
- Unstabilized sensor
It's aimed at creators taking pictures and video for the web, with a suite of vlogging features meant to let you shoot video that's ready to upload as soon as you transfer it to your phone and a dial that lets you easily switch between 'Film Simulations,' Fujifilm's much-loved color modes. It also has the full suite of stills features from larger, more expensive models – minus a viewfinder – and its X-mount lens mount also gives you access to the most complete range of APS-C lenses, no matter where your photography or content creation journey takes you.
Fujifilm's autofocus can recognize and accurately track several subject types, but overall its autofocus isn't as swift or reliable as its rivals and its general subject tracking isn't as dependable. The X-M5's stills mode is among the most competent in vlogging-focused cameras It has two top-plate control dials and a focus control joystick, but no four-way controller. It also features the company's film simulation dial for controlling the color profile. The X-M5 can shoot up to 6.2K open-gate footage, which can be cropped for sharing on multiple platforms. Many of its video modes, such as 4K 60p, lighter-weight 4K LP mode, and electronic stabilization modes, come with a substantial crop. Our initial impressions of the X-M5 are that it's a capable camera for its size and price but that its non-stabilized sensor and last-gen autofocus tracking may be an issue for its target audience.Read our Fujifilm X-M5 initial review
Sample galleryThis widget is not optimized for RSS feed readers. Please open this article's permalink in a browser to view this content. What if I only vlog?If you plan to shoot more videos than photos, you may want to consider the Sony ZV-E10 II. Its lack of a mechanical shutter makes it worse for photography, but its autofocus tracking performance in video sets it apart from the X-M5. It also has video-centric features like a front tally light and included wind sock, and it can shoot 4K 60fps without having to crop in too tightly on the frame.
Buy now:
$998 at Amazon.com$1098 w/ 16-50 at Adorama$1098 w/ 16-50 at B&H PhotoClick here to read the ZV-E10 II review
Sony also makes a compact vlogging camera called the ZV-1 II. It gives up a lot compared to the ZV-E10 II: it has a much smaller Type-1 sensor, no 10-bit video, no 4K 60fps, and, obviously, no ability to switch out lenses. In return, you get built-in ND filters, which will help if you're shooting in direct sunlight, and a built-in lens, which means that you're getting a complete package for under $1,000. Still, it's hard to recommend when cameras like the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 exist and when many phones rival it in vlogging capabilities.
Click here to read our Best Cameras for Vlogging buying guide
Why you should trust usThis buying guide is based on cameras used and tested by DPReview's editorial team. We don't select a camera until we've used it enough to be confident in recommending it, usually after our extensive review process. The selections are purely a reflection of which cameras we believe to be best: there are no financial incentives for us to select one model or brand over another.