Pros and cons: DSLR or mirrorless camera? What to choose? DSLR vs. Mirrorless

This article will focus on mirrorless cameras. They are called that because their design lacks a bulky mirror and an optical viewfinder. In the design of classic DSLRs, a mirror located behind the lens at an angle of 45 degrees to the optical axis allows you to observe through the viewfinder the image obtained directly through the optics installed on the camera. Its presence does not affect the quality of the image (at the moment of shooting it generally rises and covers the optical viewfinder). Because of large sizes The mirror itself increases the distance between the matrix and the lens, which in turn complicates the optical design of the lenses, increases the size of the camera itself, making it more bulky and noisy.

DSLR or mirrorless camera: what to choose

Why is a DSLR camera better than a mirrorless camera? For a long time SLR cameras were the most popular among amateur photographers, since the advantages still outweighed the disadvantages. However, progress does not stand still, and modern digital technologies have allowed manufacturers to create a new class of cameras. Mirrorless system cameras have absorbed all the advantages of a DSLR camera in the form of ease of sighting, speed of electronics, and the ability to change optics. At the same time, the absence of an optical viewfinder and mirror allows the cameras themselves to be made smaller, lighter, with a simpler and more efficient design. Initially born as a niche product, this class of cameras is gaining more and more new fans every year, and the number of models on the market is growing like an avalanche. In all this diversity, it’s easy to get confused!

System cameras with interchangeable lenses

In this article, we have selected the most interesting, in our opinion, representatives of mirrorless cameras or, as they are also called, compact system cameras with interchangeable lenses. We will tell you about those models that, in terms of their characteristics, have already come very close to the performance of SLR cameras, or even surpassed them. Mirrorless cameras can be of interest to a wide range of people. For example, those who want to take a step forward from the usual compact soap dish or mobile phone. The intuitive controls of most of these cameras allow you to become familiar with all the basics of photography while remaining in your comfort zone. They are also suitable for those amateur photographers who have a large fleet of old high-quality photo optics left over from film times. Many companies produce adapters for different mounts, through which you can install and use your favorite lenses on the camera. They are also often chosen as a backup or second camera by many DSLR camera owners, and sometimes even switch from a DSLR to a mirrorless system entirely!

And another important point: for some mirrorless models (for example, Olympus) the price has practically not increased. As a result of the December price increase, other models did not increase as much as SLR cameras.

Olympus mirrorless cameras

If size and weight matter to you highest value, then you should look towards mirrorless cameras from Olympus. In their cameras they use a Micro Four Thirds size matrix (approximately 17.3x13 mm). This solution allows us to produce cameras and optics of small sizes. At the same time, the Micro Four Thirds matrix is ​​quite large and provides image quality close to APS-C matrices. In terms of picture quality, Olympus squeezes literally everything out of 4/3 sensors in their cameras! Among the rich Olympus line, I would like to highlight two OM-D E-M10 and OM-D E-M1

In 2014, it received numerous awards, including from EISA, DPpreview and TIPA, as a camera with an ideal price-quality ratio in its class. OM-D E-M10 is a continuation of the OM-D series, which has conquered the world with its classic design combined with the latest advances from Olympus. The camera is very fast. Autofocus speed is only 0.06 seconds, and RAW shooting speed is 8 frames per second. Let's add, judging by the enormous possibilities for customizing the interface, ease of manual and semi-automatic control, shooting in Full-HD format, and you will get a camera that outperforms most SLR cameras, but takes up much less space.

The big brother of the E-M10, the flagship of the Olympus Micro Four Thirds mirrorless system. Every facet of this camera is tailored for reporting and has a rich arsenal of professional solutions. Improved electronic viewfinder with a field of view larger than many DSLRs. Unique 5-axis image stabilization for photos and videos: compensates for shake in three planes, as well as rotational moments. Cheetah-fast hybrid autofocus. Dust- and moisture-proof frost-resistant housing. This camera is also available with a large number of additional accessories that expand its capabilities even further. Among the available accessories, I would like to note the MMF-3 adapter, which allows you to install and use all the functions of 4/3 format optics (such optics were used in Olympus and Panasonic DSLRs in the recent past). Autofocus with such optics will work using phase detection sensors located on the matrix.

Fujifilm mirrorless cameras

The next manufacturer, which also focused its efforts on the production of mirrorless cameras and ignored DSLRs, is the Japanese corporation Fujifilm. The main advantage of Fujifilm is its unique matrix and optics designed for it. And this is not surprising, because Fujifilm engineers have adapted all their experience and knowledge accumulated over many years of improving color emulsions to digital technologies. The result of their work was a matrix with X-Trans technology.

This technology is interesting because the pixels on the sensor are arranged in a non-linear manner and due to this there is no need to use a low-pass filter. The picture acquires its own unique charm, as well as exceptional sharpness in the smallest details. All these details can be captured using proprietary optics. Among the cameras from the Fujifilm line, I would like to highlight the following mirrorless models.

It is the most affordable model in the Fujifilm camera line with X-Trans technology. It differs from its older brothers primarily in size, as well as in the absence of an electronic viewfinder and less developed ergonomics of the controls (fewer buttons). The camera is available in three different body colors, has a rotating screen, Wi-Fi functionality and is an inexpensive entry ticket to the world of the Fujifilm system.

This is Fujifulm's bid to play on the same field as the Olympus OM-D E-M1. In the field of reportage cameras in direct competition with DSLRs. The model belongs to the premium segment and is currently the most advanced system mirrorless camera from Fujifilm. Outwardly, it is similar to a DSLR, but instead of an optical viewfinder, an electronic one is used, which, due to its size and quality, is practically indistinguishable from an optical one. The camera body is dust- and moisture-proof, frost-resistant and has classic mechanical dials for controlling shutter speed and exposure compensation (the aperture on most Fujifilm lenses is mounted on a ring on the lens). It uses an X-Trans CMOS II matrix with ISO increased to 51200. The new processor and electronics have virtually minimized start-up time and the interval between shots, resulting in a camera with the highest responsiveness. Phase detection autofocus with subject motion prediction allows you to shoot up to 8 frames per second. For this model, as in the case of Olympus, Fujifilm has released a large line of additional accessories and new dust- and water-resistant lenses.

Sony mirrorless cameras

Talking about without SLR cameras Oh, we can’t help but mention the Sony corporation. Among the achievements in this market segment, I would like to highlight two models: the Sony A6000 with the most advanced autofocus and the Sony A7 II with a 5-axis optical stabilizer based on matrix shift, implemented for the first time on a full frame.

This is a 24MP APS-C E-mount mirrorless camera available in three colors. At first glance, you will be struck by its thoughtful ergonomics. The camera fits well in the hand, has many customizable controls, and a well-thought-out interface. But the most interesting thing is its autofocus system with 4D focus technology. Not only did it surpass even SLR cameras from Sony in speed, but also guidance is carried out in four dimensions: horizontal, vertical, depth and time (meaning predictive algorithms that allow you to predict the movement of an object in next moment time). Other features include an extended sensor sensitivity range up to ISO 25600, an intelligent electronic OLED viewfinder high resolution, Wi-Fi and NFC protocols for data transfer. One more interesting fact is the ability to download various applications that improve and expand the capabilities of the camera from the PlayMemories Camera Apps brand store.

With an E mount and a full-frame sensor, it stands somewhat apart from all mirrorless cameras. This is the world's first camera with a 5-axis optical image stabilizer implemented for a full-frame (24x36 mm) sensor. The stabilizer will work with the “native” optics for this model with E-mount, and with optics from Sony and Minolta DSLRs with A-mount (you will need an appropriate adapter), and with any other lenses installed via adapters. If the adapter electronics allow the camera to understand which lens is being used, the stabilizer will adjust to the lens automatically. If the lens or adapter has no electronics at all, then the focal length of the lens will need to be specified manually.

The camera's autofocus is hybrid, extremely accurate and fast, with the ability to predict movement. Videographers will also appreciate this camera, as it has a full range of video recording functions and outputs video in Full HD format with a bitrate of up to 50 Mbps. Let's add here a convenient ergonomic design, high degree freedom regarding control settings, ease of wireless data transfer and convenient downloading additional tools through the proprietary PlayMemories Camera Apps and we will get a mirrorless camera with limitless possibilities, and most importantly, with a full-frame sensor.

" But somehow they avoided the question of what is better, a DSLR or a mirrorless camera? Today we’ll catch up and talk about the differences between the two types of photographic equipment – ​​mirrorless and DSLR cameras. Let's go.

What is a SLR camera?

Reflex camera is a camera whose viewfinder is based on a mirror. In general, there are single-lens and double-lens SLR cameras. But since in the world of digital photography there is only room left for the first type, it will be discussed further.

The first single-lens reflex camera appeared in 1861. Yes, while serfdom had just been abolished in Russia, the camera had already been invented in England. That is, the history of the SLR camera began in the century before last, more than 150 years ago.

Of course, the first SLR cameras were very different from what we have now. One of the differences is the use of film. Today, film, as you all know very well, is practically extinct and exists only thanks to enthusiasts who fell in love with film photography once upon a time. Digital technologies have made it possible to replace the film in the camera with a matrix.

Let's return to the design of a SLR camera. Every DSLR has a mirror-based viewfinder. The mirror stands at an angle of 45 degrees and allows you to see a real non-digitized image through the viewfinder. The mechanism, in general, is quite simple from the point of view of understanding. Through the lens, light (and the image, respectively) enters the camera body, where a mirror is installed at an angle of 45 degrees. The light reflected by the mirror rushes upward, where it enters a pentaprism (or pentamirror), which wraps around the image, giving it its normal orientation. Simply put, if there were no pentaprism, the image in the viewfinder would appear upside down. That's it. This is the optical viewfinder - distinctive feature any DSLR.

What is a mirrorless camera?

Mirrorless Just like a SLR camera, it has interchangeable lenses. But, as you understand from the name, it does not have a mirror viewfinder. Instead of a viewfinder in inexpensive cameras a screen is used, while more expensive cameras use an electronic viewfinder. In fact, unlike an optical viewfinder, such a viewfinder shows us a digitized image. We can say that this is a small screen. It has a certain resolution, which is indicated in the camera specification. Naturally, as with a monitor, the higher the resolution, the better.

Why is a DSLR camera better than a mirrorless camera?

Let's first talk about why a DSLR is better than a mirrorless one.

• Optical viewfinder- not only a feature of a DSLR camera, but also its advantage over a mirrorless one. There are several reasons for this. First, the optical viewfinder shows the image in real time, raw and undigitized. That is, as your eye would see it without a viewfinder. Secondly, when using an electronic viewfinder there is a slight delay in the image, which is not present with an optical viewfinder. Those. with the latter you always see the picture in real time.
• Phase detection autofocus– it is typical only for SLR cameras. The latest models of mirrorless cameras have learned to use phase sensors on the matrix, thereby giving birth to a hybrid focusing system, but today it still does not reach the focusing speed of a SLR camera.
• Ergonomics DSLRs are better. This is due, among other things, to the fact that the mirror itself with the pentaprism takes up quite a lot of space in the carcass. Because of this, in fact, these cameras are so large. But this minus turns into a plus when you need to control the camera: especially professional cameras have excellent access to all important functions using buttons, wheels and other controls located on the carcass. Particularly noteworthy is the additional monochrome display, which is found in large SLR cameras and is never found in mirrorless cameras. This display is very helpful in professional photography, and it is never superfluous for amateur photography.
• Huge optics park. Remember when we said that SLR cameras have been produced for a century and a half? Nikon began producing cameras in the 50s of the twentieth century. Today, Nikon's optics fleet is huge and continues to grow. Of course, mirrorless cameras are still far from achieving such richness.
• Price DSLR cameras are generally lower. Specific example. There is a Nikon D5100 with a Nikon 35mm 1.8G DX lens. This is a very inexpensive kit, costing less than 20 thousand. To get similar quality with a mirrorless camera you need to spend a lot more money.
• DSLR camera turns on much faster than mirrorless. In a split second, while mirrorless cameras can turn on in 3 seconds.
• Opening hours DSLR cameras' battery life is significantly higher than that of mirrorless cameras. And the batteries themselves are usually more capacious. Thus, amateur cameras like the Nikon D7100 can shoot one and a half thousand frames on a single charge. Professional technicians, like Nikon D4, is capable of taking more than 3 thousand pictures with a single battery charge.
• DSLR cameras more reliable. Some of them have dust and moisture protection. This is why you are unlikely to see a photographer with a Sony A7 in the savannah. But with Canon 1Dx there is nothing to do. There are more of them there than lions and bison...

So, the main thing: for today professional photography almost impossible with a mirrorless camera. A DSLR camera is preferable for commercial photography. And the amateur must decide for himself whether the advantages of a DSLR are important to him, or whether what a mirrorless camera offers is enough. More on this below.

Why is a mirrorless camera better than a DSLR?

Yes, but are there any advantages to a mirrorless camera that a DSLR camera doesn’t have? Eat. And now we will talk about them.

Olympus technology is one of the most popular mirrorless cameras on the market

• Size. This is the most obvious. Mirrorless cameras are smaller. The optics for such cameras are also more compact. As a result, you can get a mirrorless system that will be smaller than a DSLR, but will allow you to get the same high-quality images.
• Electronic viewfinder. Electronic viewfinders also have their advantages. Firstly, they can display various additional information. Secondly, such viewfinders will be more convenient for nearsighted people. You need to use the optical viewfinder with glasses or use the diopter correction function, which is enough for vision of -2.5, but if the minus is greater, then alas. The electronic viewfinder, as we said above, is a screen. And, of course, when used by a nearsighted person, there are no problems with it.
• Large selection manufacturers. Mirrorless cameras are now produced by the following companies: Nikon, Canon, Sony, Panasonic, Olympus, Fujifilm, Samsung. But affordable DSLRs are produced only by the first 3 companies plus Pentax.

What do DSLR and mirrorless cameras have in common?

There is also something that unites these cameras.

• Matrix. The most important part of a digital camera. Just a couple of years ago, I would have said that mirrorless cameras do not have a full-frame sensor. But Sony corrected this by releasing the A7 series cameras. They have matrices that are not inferior to those used in SLR cameras. We have already talked about matrices more than once; there is no point in repeating ourselves.
• Systematicity. For some reason, many people call mirrorless cameras system cameras, forgetting that DSLR cameras also belong to this class. This is the similarity between DSLRs and mirrorless cameras - these are system cameras that feature interchangeable optics.

What's better? DSLR or mirrorless?

There is no clear answer to this question. Everyone must make their choice based on their needs. My opinion is that DSLR cameras today are still too much superior to mirrorless cameras. For me personally, when choosing a camera, the most important criteria are speed (focusing, switching on), a wide selection of optics and price (both for the camera and lenses). Yes, you don’t always want to take a huge mirror set with you. It's better to have a choice. For example, for large (long, important, etc.) filming, have a DSLR, but for the soul - something small, maybe not even a mirrorless camera, but a compact camera like Fuji x100s or the like. But if you choose one single camera, then again, I would choose a DSLR. But that's just my opinion. What would you choose?

Articles

If you are a beginner amateur photographer and don’t know whether a system camera or an SLR is better to choose. What is the difference between the representatives of these devices, which camera is better to buy on initial stage, then you need to familiarize yourself with the material presented in this article. Here we will look at the difference between a system camera and a DSLR. What models are on the market today.

Features of SLR cameras

What are SLR cameras or a DSLR, this is how devices of this type are usually called among professional photographers, how do they differ from ordinary cameras for photography? DSLRs are devices whose optical viewfinder design uses a mirror located at an angle of 45 degrees to the axis of the lens. All representatives of this type of camera are equipped with replaceable optical equipment, which can be changed depending on the conditions and features of the shooting. As a rule, devices of this type are quite impressive in size for a camera due to the design features.


Overview of the main advantages of DSLR cameras:

1. Viewfinder. Since the viewfinder in such devices is optical, it allows you to see the raw image in real time without delay.
2. Fast autofocus.
3. Great possibilities for connecting removable optics for different conditions shooting.
4. Better image quality.
5. The cameras turn on instantly, which allows you to immediately start shooting without waiting for the device to “wake up”.
6. High shooting speed.
7. Long battery life. Thus, some models are capable of producing up to three thousand frames using one battery charge.
8. The flash is built into the body of the device.
9. Simplicity, speed of setup. Typically, the body of a DSLR is designed in such a way that the user can easily configure the functions of the device using buttons or wheels located on the body of the device.

The main disadvantages of this type of camera include:

1. Large dimensions of the device.
2. The weight of the device, which can sometimes reach two kilograms when assembled.
3. They are quite inconvenient for transportation, since due to the large dimensions of both the devices themselves and the removable parts, they require a large carrying bag capable of supporting a weight of up to 15 kg.
4. These devices are quite fragile and require particularly careful use.
5. A good device of this type has a high cost.

• Nikon D3300 series. A compact representative of the camera with a mirror in the viewfinder with an electronic help function for novice professionals. The device is equipped with a powerful digital matrix that allows you to shoot in the dark;
• Sony model Alpha 68. This device is characterized by fast focusing, a good sensor, and a user-friendly interface;
• Canon EOS Rebel T5 series or 1200D. A budget model of a mirrorless camera that allows continuous shooting at a speed of three frames per second. Has a powerful processor;
• Nikon D5500. The device is one of the amateur SLR cameras. It is equipped with a wide list of blanks, of which there are about 16 for various subjects. Their list includes such as landscape, sports, child, macro, beach, twilight, snow, dawn.

System cameras and their main characteristics

System cameras for photography are cameras that have a modular design. With this design, replaceable components of the device, such as lenses, cassettes, viewfinders, and flash, are installed on the device body. System cameras can be either DSLR or mirrorless.

Let's review the characteristics of mirrorless system devices. The viewfinders of this type of device do not use a mirror, since the viewfinders themselves are electronic.

The advantages of such devices include:

• small dimensions. This type of camera has compact dimensions and low weight due to its design;
• camera equipment various instruments for configuration, built-in functions that expand the capabilities of these devices;
• electronic viewfinder in the form of a small screen that allows for quick, easy adjustments.

Disadvantages of mirrorless cameras:

• the speed of switching on and starting operation of the device is lower than that of mirror models;
• focus delay;
• Devices of this type are inferior to mirror-type devices in terms of image quality.

The best representatives of mirrorless system devices for photography include the following representatives:

• Fuji model X-T10 – enough budget camera, not inferior in quality to more expensive representatives of this type of device;
• Olympus OMDE-M10 II series. This series and model of mirrorless devices from this manufacturer have become widespread among amateur photographers due to their functionality and quality;
• The Sony A7 II series is an excellent device that received the title of best system camera of 2018 due to its excellent image quality, wide range of functions, additional features;
• Panasonic model LumixG. This device has earned user recognition thanks to its user-friendly interface, good quality OLED image and color viewfinder;
• Nikon 1J series. A mirrorless camera for beginner amateur photographers for whom the capabilities of a conventional digital camera are no longer enough.

DSLR and mirrorless system cameras, a review and comparison of the functions of which showed that both types of cameras allow you to create various unique images. However, the opinions of users are divided and each type of system device has its own connoisseurs. Thus, SLR cameras are most often used for photography by professional photographers, as they make it possible to create photographs of the highest quality. Thanks to their high performance and speed, mirror-type devices allow you to photograph sporting events, various competitions, various kinds celebrations Mirrorless system devices have become widespread among photography enthusiasts and active recreation thanks to its compact design. This type of camera is suitable for both beginners and advanced amateur photographers.

Hello! I’m in touch with you, Timur Mustaev. Photographers never tire of discussing different types cameras, discussing their advantages and disadvantages. We will not ignore this issue either.

The article will logically include three sections: about mirror devices, about system devices, and at the end the advantages of both. Thus, the reader himself will be able to form his own opinion about the cameras and understand for himself whether an SLR or a system camera is better.

In one of the previous articles we discussed in more detail. We won’t dwell on this today.

Any digital camera equipped with main and auxiliary elements, the coordinated work of which ultimately forms the image.

For a camera to fulfill its purpose, it cannot do without a body and an optical part with a lens system. There are several important blocks in the body: shutter; sensor; processor, etc., and, what is important for us, the viewfinder.

This is in general outline about photographic equipment, and now in more detail on our topic.

DSLR device

In a SLR camera, the mirror located closer to the shutter and directly connected to the eyepiece is of great importance. The signal arriving at the mirror is reflected and hits the ground glass, collecting lens and pentaprism. Only after this we see the image through the visor.

Thanks to a complex device, an initially blurry and inverted picture can be observed as normal, corresponding to reality.

Such a viewfinder is called a mirror viewfinder, just like the device itself. I think it has become obvious that DSLRs are complex in design and can be an order of magnitude more expensive than other models. Note that we only touched on one detail in DSLRs!

Specifics of system devices

Olympus, as well as Panasonic, initiated the production of compact camera models that refused to use mirrors in them. System devices are devices with a modular design, including a core and replaceable elements.

In system devices, light passes through the lens and immediately hits the photosensitive device. The viewfinder here, accordingly, is not a mirror one, but a telescopic or electronic one (additional display).

In the latter version, the camera processor reads information from the matrix and displays it on the LCD display in Live View mode, which is also available on DSLRs.

Despite the peculiarities of system cameras, most of them have good matrices, and it is possible to provide additional equipment. If previously such cameras were single-lens, now this limitation has been overcome.

Comparison of cameras: focusing on the pros

We have covered the basic concepts, all that remains is to talk about the advantages that cameras have. First, let's focus on mirrored ones:

1. Reliability. Yes, SLR photographic equipment has impressive dimensions, which can be inconvenient for a photographer, but it is still more durable and perfectly protected from dust and moisture.
2. Frame. The body of the DSLR camera is designed to fit comfortably in your hand. For a good grip, they often have small rubber attachments.
3. Accessories. Of course, here we can find everything that will be useful to us during filming: various kinds of filters and devices, external flash, etc. And not an insignificant fact - large selection lenses.
4. Lots of features. What can you not find in DSLR cameras? Any genre of filming and embodiment of bold ideas can be available to you, the main thing is to choose wisely.
5. Big matrix, allowing you to take photos and shoot videos in high resolution.
6. Opening hours. A DSLR can run significantly longer on its battery than a mirrorless camera.
7. Price benefit. DSLR cameras There are different levels of professionalism. And depending on your needs, you can buy either a very expensive and sophisticated one, or a budget option that combines reasonable cost and quality.
8. Focusing. Users note how focus works and that it allows you to quickly concentrate on an object. Also, phase detection autofocus is typical only for DSLRs.
9. Optics in the viewfinder. As mentioned above, SLR cameras have a mirror visor. Only this type of viewfinder displays the image without negative changes and without delays.

One can guess that the opposite features will be highlighted in system devices.

Let's talk about them:

• Small size and lightness. These properties allow system devices to be transferred without special effort and take it with you on trips. In addition, they will always be at hand, and perhaps you won’t need a special bag.
• Control. System cameras are more reminiscent of point-and-shoot cameras and lack as many photographic capabilities as SLR cameras, however, everything is easy with them. Many beginners pay attention to these types of cameras because of their ease of handling.
• Matrix, only slightly inferior in terms of quality to mirror models.
• Low price. Mirrorless cameras are often cheaper. Now progress does not stand still and more expensive lines are appearing. They retain the same compactness, but the functions are significantly expanded: completely manual settings, shooting video of maximum resolution, etc.
• Lack of mirror. On the one hand, this is a minus, but on the other, due to the fact that the device is simpler, there is simply nothing to break in it. SLR cameras themselves often suffer from their mechanism: during operation, small vibrations from moving parts occur, but nevertheless affect the photograph.
• Replacement Components. Flashlights, rings, etc. available for system cameras. It is possible to change lenses, although the choice is not as wide as with DSLRs.

As you can see, both mirror and system models have their advantages. After analyzing them and deciding on the purpose of purchasing a camera, you can understand which camera is best for you.

That's all for today. Goodbye, readers of my blog! Subscribe and don't miss anything important and interesting. Share with your friends.

All the best to you, Timur Mustaev.

The trend towards optimization of photographic equipment provides many advantages for users, but along with them, the disadvantages of such models inevitably appear. These include limited functionality and very average shooting characteristics. The reverse approach is demonstrated by the example of system cameras that combine the advantages of compacts and SLR cameras. But during operation, much will also depend on the specific model.

Features of system cameras

For photography enthusiasts today, there are several options to choose from, the main ones being smartphones, digital compact cameras and DSLRs. And if the first two groups are not suitable for sophisticated amateur photographers due to the low quality of the images, then SLR models are large in size and have complex functionality, which is also not suitable for every user. The solution may be a system camera, which is modest in size and provides truly high-quality results, in some parameters even close to professional level. For example, Sony system cameras in some modifications weigh only 300-400 g, fitting into clothing pockets. In terms of opportunities for shooting them modular design allows you to assemble a photographic tool for almost any task. For example, the basic equipment can be expanded to include a lens, lens, microphone and flash. And this is only part of the capabilities that distinguish system camera models. Now it’s worth taking a closer look at what exactly the leading manufacturers of this equipment offer.

Sony mirrorless cameras

System cameras from the Japanese company Sony use two types of matrices:

• Amateur APS-C. Compared to standard 4/3 format modules, it is 1.6 times larger, and compared to 1/2.3 compact matrices, it is 13 times larger.
• Premium 35mm full frame.

In other words, Sony system cameras are equipped with two lens options to choose from, and in both cases an E mount is provided. As for additional features, almost all models of this standard receive NFC and Wi-Fi wireless modules, allowing you to control the device remotely from a smartphone and transfer photo and video materials to other devices. Amateur models with an APS-C matrix are also provided with optical image stabilization.

This modification is considered the world's first representative of a system mirrorless camera intended for the mass consumer. The device is equipped with a 35 mm matrix, the resolution of which is 24.3 megapixels. The device belongs to professional photographic equipment, which is confirmed not only by the high price level, but also by a wide dynamic spectrum, low noise level and natural colors - advantages that characterize full-frame shooting. We equipped the Sony Alpha system camera of this version with fast combined autofocus. To integrate the viewfinder, microphone and flash, a bracket with a sync contact is provided. The basic kit includes a zoom lens with a range of 28-70 mm. The shooting speed is 2.5 fps.

II Body

The second generation of Sony's full-frame mirrorless camera, which retains the same core in the form of a processor, matrix and autofocus system. But a new 5-axis stabilization has been added. This inclusion eliminated the “shaking” effect when shooting suspended in low light conditions. As users note, the quality has also improved close-ups regardless of lens type. The system camera also features high-quality video recording in FullHD at 60 frames per second and XAVC S formats. However, the advantages in performing this function still belong to the A7S modification, which confidently works with 4K video.

Fujifilm system cameras

Another Japanese giant in the photographic equipment market, which in the mirrorless segment focuses on mechanical elements management. This gives the models a special retro look, reminiscent of classic film cameras. In particular, the design has dials for switching shooting modes, and XF series lenses have aperture adjustment rings. Moreover, Fujifilm system cameras do not have image stabilizers - this function applies entirely to lenses. In order to expand the possibilities for a modular layout, the developers have endowed the devices with the ability to combine with Leica lenses, but only through an adapter to the M mount. Wi-Fi is provided for wireless communication with other devices.

Fujifilm X-A2 camera

A low-end model in the Fujifilm mirrorless segment, the advantages of which include its modest size and ergonomic control. Despite the average technical specifications, material of fairly high quality can be extracted from this apparatus. This will be facilitated by a wide range of shooting modes (again with a manual switch), an optional flash connection and an included lens with a range of 16-50 mm. If we talk about the disadvantages, the system camera of this modification is equipped with a matrix with a resolution of only 16 megapixels and does not have a viewfinder. Accordingly, you should prepare to position frames via the LCD screen. Although the design of the display itself, with the ability to recline by 75%, makes the device convenient for shooting self-portraits.

Model Fujifilm F X-T10 16-50

Also a budget-level camera, equipped with a 16-megapixel matrix, but with a wider range of functional tools. The company used innovative hybrid autofocus technology, which “guides” the subject even when the body is actively moving. The frame rate of the F X-T10 16-50 system camera is only 8 frames per second, so this choice is more suitable for a beginner photographer. But what it lacks in performance it makes up for with a fast viewfinder with 0.005 second lag, a flip-out LCD screen and a built-in flash. Once again, it is worth emphasizing the successfully implemented design in the style of devices of the last century, which distinguishes this line from more technologically advanced competitors.

Olympus system cameras

Without fail, all cameras from this company are equipped with a stabilizer and a Wi-Fi module with the ability to control via a smartphone. Premium versions also get zoom lenses with a range of 14-42mm for long-range photography. Olympus mirrorless cameras support the layout with auxiliary devices like the same flash, viewfinder and lens, but such an addition requires some configuration. Connection problems are common, which can result in a camera system error like No camera head. This means that the camera head is not connected - most likely the connection was made with the wrong adapters.

Olympus is also famous for its joint developments with other photographic equipment manufacturers. The most notable model in the niche under consideration was Micro 4/3, on which specialists from Panasonic also worked. The device received a 35 mm matrix with a resolution of 16 megapixels. According to users, with a compact size, this mirrorless camera, combined with the right lenses, takes pictures excellent quality.

Panasonic models

Of course, Panasonic also includes completely “its own” developments in its assortment. system cameras. This segment is represented by the DMC series with several versions. The Lumix DMC-GF7K, intended for beginner amateur photographers, is considered the basic one. The device is equipped with a rotating display, accurate and fast autofocus of the Contrast AF system, a built-in flash and a Wi-Fi module. That is, in terms of basic functionality, this is the best entry-level system camera, but there is also a more advanced modification - the DMC-G7K. This camera supports 4K video recording at 25 fps with a matrix resolution of 8 megapixels. But special attention The creators are turning to high-contrast DFD autofocus, which captures objects in 0.06 seconds, allowing 6 frames per second in continuous focus mode. This system only works with branded Panasonic lenses.

Nikon and Canon models

These photographic equipment manufacturers occupy leading positions in the SLR camera segment, and the niche of system devices attracts them much less. Nevertheless, they also have interesting offers.

For connoisseurs of mirrorless cameras, Nikon has developed a compact model 1 J5 Kit, the one-inch matrix of which has a resolution of 20.8 megapixels. Moreover, almost a pocket camera is capable of shooting video in 4K format, and in autofocus mode it takes up to 20 pictures per second. In terms of functional equipment, it is also supported high level- NFC and Wi-Fi wireless communication modules, a built-in flash and an LCD display with a 180-degree rotation mechanism are provided. The only thing that will upset experienced photographers is a wide-angle lens with a focus of 10-30 mm.

Canon system cameras are also present on the photographic equipment market, the most notable representative of which is the EOS M3 Kit. The model is equipped with a 24.2 megapixel APS-C matrix and a folding screen, and optionally you can connect an electronic viewfinder and an external flash. Control is implemented both manually and using built-in Wi-Fi and NFC modules.

Samsung Galaxy NX Camera

The Korean manufacturer focused on the intelligent capabilities of the camera, providing the Galaxy NX model with Android OS. The design of the device also turned out to be unusual - the design is made in a large but flat form factor, which is praised for its ease of physical handling. Increase in size relative to previous versions NX is due to the use of a 4.77-inch LCD display. As for shooting capabilities, high quality Pictures are provided by a 21.6 megapixel APS-C matrix, electronic viewfinder and autofocus. Communication capabilities are realized through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. HDMI and DLNA interfaces are provided for communication with video and audio equipment.

Thanks to the Android platform, the Galaxy NX system camera also has the ability to program photo settings through the iFunction option. In particular, such parameters as photosensitivity, shutter speed and aperture, white balance, etc. can be quickly auto-corrected. What is also noteworthy is that the device supports a GPS navigation system, and with a SIM card installed, it can work with SMS messages. Overall, the result was a high-tech smart device that significantly expanded the functional range of system photographic equipment without reducing the basic shooting quality in its class.