The Best Mirrorless Camera For Video To Buy in 2023
Steve Fletcher Dec 2, 2023 8:03 AM
If you're a pro looking for an upgrade or a beginner just getting started, consider the best mirrorless camera for video. They're typically lighter and more compact than DSLRs, with no mirrors (hence the name) and instead rely on an electronic sensor to capture images. There are also a lot more options available. And, regardless of your budget, there is something within your price range that will help you capture those fleeting moments just right.
Overview
We spent countless hours testing to determine which models to include in this guide. You'll find excellent photography models, some of the best video cameras, hybrid mirrorless options, and full-frame cameras. Continue reading to determine which of the best mirrorless cameras for video is best for you.
1. Sony A1
Important Specifications
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Brand: Sony
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Form Factor: Mirrorless
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Special Feature: Image Stabilization
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Optical Zoom: 8 x
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Color: Black
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Photo Sensor Size: Full Frame (35mm)
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Video Capture Resolution: 1080p
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Lens Type: Wide Angle, Zoom
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Maximum Aperture: 2.8 f
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Photo Sensor Technology: CMOS
Product's highlights
The Sony A1 is everything Sony claims it to be. It's a technological triumph, a camera that can do it all. Previously, cameras could offer speed, resolution, or video capability, but the A1 provides all three and even outperforms dedicated sports and video cameras. However, as good as it is, the price is and will continue to be a major deterrent, and its appeal is limited to photographers who require everything it does, not just one or two of them. Sony has effectively killed two of its other cameras by producing this one!
Pros
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Resolution of 50MP
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Video in 8K resolution
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Continuous shooting at 30fps
Cons
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Price astronomical
2. Nikon Z9
Important Specifications
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Brand: Nikon
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Model Name: Z 9 FX-format Mirrorless Camera Body
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Form Factor: Compact
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Effective Still Resolution: 45.7 MP
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Special Feature: 8K Video
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Optical Zoom: 1 x
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Color: Black
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Connectivity Technology: USB, WI-Fi, Ethernet, HDMI, GPS
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Screen Size: 3.2 Inches
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Photo Sensor Size: Full Frame (35mm)
Product's highlights
Nikon may have been late to the game in releasing its professional, high-spec mirrorless camera, but the Nikon Z9 was well worth the wait. When it comes to video, it's an absolute beast, easily outperforming the Canon EOS R3. It can record video in 8K 60p or 8K 30p with a record time of up to 2 hours. Nikon decided to do away with the mechanical shutter entirely, which means the Z9 can shoot at 120fps and has a maximum shutter speed of 1/32,000, making it ideal for sports and bird photography. The Z9 is powered by Deep Learning AF, which allows the camera to recognize nine different types of objects: human eyes, faces, heads, and upper bodies; animal eyes, heads, and bodies; and cars, planes, trains, and motorcycles. It has the same 493 AF points as the Nikon Z7 II, which seems impressive until you realize the Canon EOS R3 has 4,779 AF points. The Z9 is significantly less expensive than both the Sony A1 and the Canon EOS R3, and it has many advanced features.
Pros
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Video resolution of 8K 60p
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Burst shooting at 120fps
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AF Deep Learning
Cons
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The screen is not fully articulated.
3. Canon EOS R5
Important Specifications
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Brand: Canon
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Model Name: Canon EOS R5+ RF 24-105mm F4 L IS USM
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Form Factor: Compact
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Effective Still Resolution: 35.4 MP
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Color: Black
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Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
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Screen Size: 3.2
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Photo Sensor Size: Full Frame (35mm)
Product's highlights
The Canon EOS R5 is simply Canon's best stills camera to date. It combines the form of the EOS R, the function of the EOS 5D, and the professional-grade autofocus of the EOS-1D X. If you're a stills or hybrid shooter who alternates between photography and videography, this is one of the best cameras you'll ever use. Unfortunately, we cannot recommend the R5 if your primary interest is video shooting. Don't get us wrong: the video is incredible, but the overheating restrictions prevent it from being your A-camera. It isn't perfect in every way, but it is so good in so many that it remains a landmark camera.
Pros
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The most effective AF on the market
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Best full-frame camera IBIS
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8K video is incredible.
Cons
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Standard 4K is adequate.
4. Panasonic Lumix S5
Important Specifications
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Brand: Panasonic
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Form Factor: Compact, Mirrorless
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Special Feature: Lightweight
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Color: Black
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Photo Sensor Size: Full Frame (35mm)
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Video Capture Resolution: 1080p
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Lens Type: Zoom
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Maximum Aperture: 3.5 f
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Camera Flash: F3.5–F5.6
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Skill Level: Professional
Product's highlights
The original Lumix S1 and S1R are powerful and impressive cameras... but they're big. Panasonic has taken this into consideration and produced the Lumix S5, a camera that offers virtually the same imaging power as the hefty 24-megapixel Lumix S1, but in a body that weighs about 300g less. It's also a spiritual successor to the video-focused GH line, boasting best-in-class video specs. It shoots 4K/60p 10-Bit 4:2:0 video, and only the pro-level Sony A7S III can claim to match or beat it in terms of dynamic range. The color science has been fine-tuned for a beautiful image.
Pros
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Lightweight and compact
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Extremely good video.
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Extra-wide kit lens (20-60mm)
Cons
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Only use contrast AF.
5. Fujifilm X-H2S
Important Specifications
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Brand: Fujifilm
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Model Name: X-H2S
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Form Factor: Mirrorless
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Effective Still Resolution: 26.16 MP
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Special Feature: Live View
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Optical Zoom: 1 x
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Color: Black
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Connectivity Technology: USB, HDMI
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Screen Size: 3 Inches
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Photo Sensor Size: APS-C
Product's highlights
The Fujifilm X-H2S, which was just announced, is the new flagship camera in the Fujifilm X-mount lineup. The X-T4 had it all, but the X-H2S takes it a step further, with a chunky pro-spec body and handling, a top-mounted status panel, and a fifth-generation sensor that is four times faster than its predecessor. The X-H2S has in-body stabilization, a flip-out vari-angle screen, and a 5.76m dot electronic viewfinder. It can shoot at 40fps with minimal screen blackout, capture 6K video or 4K at up to 120p, and has a 5.76m dot electronic viewfinder. So, why isn't it at the very top of this list? Because there is so much power here, only a professional photographer or videographer will need it - and it is not cheap. The X-H2S is the pinnacle of professional APS-C imaging.
Pros
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Continuous shooting at 40fps
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Video in 6K/4K 120p resolution
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Internal body stabilization
Cons
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The cost reflects its value.
Canon EOS R5 Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera - 8K Video, 45 Megapixel Full-Frame CMOS Sensor, DIGIC X Image Processor, Up to 12 fps Mechanical Shutter (Body Only)
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- BrandCanon
- Prime
- SCORE9.6PF Score
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- BrandSony
- Prime
- SCORE9.6PF Score
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- BrandNikon
- Prime
Sony Alpha a7 III Mirrorless Digital Camera with 28-70mm Lens Bundle + Extreme Speed 64GB Memory (24 Items)
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- BrandSony
Canon EOS M6 Mark II Mirrorless Camera for Vlogging + 15-45mm Lens, CMOS, APS-C Sensor, Dual Pixel CMOS Auto Focus, Wi-Fi,Bluetooth and 4K Video
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- BrandCanon
- Prime
Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless Camera: Compact APS-C Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera with Real-Time Eye Auto Focus, 4K Video, Flip Screen & 18-135mm Lens - E Mount Compatible Cameras - ILCE-6400M/B
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- BrandSony
Panasonic DC-G9LK LUMIX G9 Mirrorless Camera, 20.3 Megapixels plus 80 Megapixel High-Resolution Mode with LEICA VARIO-Elmarit 12-60mm F2.8-4.0 Lens, 3", Black
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- BrandPanasonic
- Prime
Panasonic LUMIX G85 4K Digital Camera, 12-60mm Power O.I.S. Lens, 16 Megapixel Mirrorless Camera, 5 Axis In-Body Dual Image Stabilization, 3-Inch Tilt and Touch LCD, DMC-G85MK (Black)
View on Amazon- SCORE9.4PF Score
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- BrandPanasonic
- Prime
Sony a7 III (ILCEM3K/B) Full-frame Mirrorless Interchangeable-Lens Camera with 28-70mm Lens with 3-Inch LCD, Black
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- BrandSony
- Prime
Panasonic LUMIX G95 20.3 Megapixel Mirrorless Camera, 12-60mm F3.5-5.6 Micro Four Thirds Lens, 5-Axis Dual I.S. 2, 4K 24p 30p Video, Pre-Installed V-Log L, 3” LCD Touchscreen - DC-G95MK (Black)
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- BrandPanasonic
- Prime
Sony Alpha a6000 Mirrorless Digital Camera 24.3MP SLR Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD (Black) w/16-50mm Power Zoom Lens
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- BrandSony
- Prime
Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless Camera: Compact APS-C Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera with Real-Time Eye Auto Focus, 4K Video, Flip Screen & 18-135mm Lens (Renewed)
View on Amazon- SCORE9.0PF Score
PF Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Read more How We Rank.
- BrandSony
- SCORE9.0PF Score
PF Score is a ranking system developed by our team of experts. It from 0 to 10 are automatically scored by our AI Consumer Report tool based upon the data collected. This score has no relationship or impact from any manufacturer or sales agent websites. Read more How We Rank.
- BrandCanon
- Prime
Canon EOS M50 Mirrorless Digital Camera with 15-45mm Lens Kit (Black) + Wide Angle Lens + 2X Telephoto Lens + Flash + SanDisk 32GB SD Memory Card + Video Accessory Bundle (Renewed)
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- BrandCanon
Canon EOS R7 w/RF-S18-150mm Lens, Mirrorless Vlogging Camera, 4K 60p Video, 32.5 MP Image Quality, DIGIC X Image Processor, Dual Pixel CMOS AF, Subject Detection, for Content Creators
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- BrandCanon
- Prime
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7 Mirrorless Micro Four Thirds Digital Camera (Black) with Panasonic 14-42mm Lens & 420-800mm Telephoto Lens + 64GB Memory Card, Backpack, Flash, Editing Software Kit & More
View on Amazon- SCORE4.8PF Score
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- BrandCardinal Camera
Last update on 2023-12-02 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. How to Choose a Soaking BathtubWhat's the difference between mirrorless and DSLR cameras?
Mirrorless cameras, like DSLRs, allow you to swap and change lenses. However, because the mirror found in a DSLR has been removed, the camera can (theoretically) be made much smaller.
Mirrorless cameras rely on electronic viewfinders rather than optical viewfinders to frame your subject. However, most low-cost mirrorless cameras do not include viewfinders at all; instead, you compose the photo on the rear screen, as you would with most compact cameras or smartphones.
This is beneficial in terms of size and cost, but if you want to start taking your photography seriously, a viewfinder is a must. This is because it allows you to compose photos in all lighting conditions, including bright sunlight, which can render a rear screen useless.
Mirrorless cameras are also known as compact system cameras (or CSCs for short), and models range from simple beginner models to sophisticated full-frame monsters that compete with the best DSLRs on the market.
2. Why are mirrorless cameras better?
Mirrorless cameras certainly provide more options. If you're looking to buy a DSLR, there are only two major players: Canon and Nikon. If you choose a mirrorless camera, your options are much more diverse, with Canon, Panasonic, Fujifilm, Sony, Olympus, and Leica all offering a wide range of cameras to suit most budgets.
Every major camera manufacturer has something to brag about right now, and their latest models are distinct enough from their competitors to stand out in some way.
While it would be very easy to choose ten high-end models as our best mirrorless camera pick, we've also tried to include some more affordable options. These models may be lacking in features, but they are excellent choices for new users and those on a tight budget.
3. How to Select the Best Mirrorless Camera for video?
It's an exciting time to buy a mirrorless camera, but it's also a little overwhelming. A flood of options at all price points from Canon, Sony, Nikon, Fujifilm, Panasonic, and a reborn Olympus means that photographers and videographers have never had more options.
So, where to begin? Sensor size is frequently a good predictor of a camera's personality and shooting style. Professional and enthusiast models will have either a full-frame sensor or a slightly smaller APS-C chip. The latter are typically smaller and less expensive than full-frame cameras, though not as portable as those with Four Thirds sensors (from Panasonic and Olympus).
Other important features to look for include electronic viewfinders (EVFs), which increase the price but are nearly indispensable for most photographers. It's also worth thinking about what kind of lenses you'll require.
If you prefer to specialize in a specific area (for example, wide-angle architecture or macro), make sure the system you're considering has the appropriate options. Sony currently has the most options in the full-frame mirrorless space, while Fujifilm has a wide range of options at most focal lengths on crop-sensor APS-C cameras.
The idea of the best mirrorless cameras for video recording would have raised some eyebrows not long ago. Mirrorless cameras were relatively new, and professionals tended to dismiss them. The world has changed quickly, and many photographers now see mirrorless cameras as the way to go.