If you’re looking for a mirrorless camera under $1,000, you’re in luck because there are many great options to choose from nowadays. These cameras offer a great balance of image quality, compact size and control – all without breaking the bank.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that these cameras are less expensive for a reason: they lack some of the features of more expensive cameras. So when shopping for a mirrorless camera in this price range, know that you’re choosing among intermediate cameras.
Sensors are one of the most important features in a mirrorless camera. Best Mirrorless Cameras Under 1000 have sub-full-frame sensors, which means they’re not as powerful as some of the more expensive options out there. However, there are still some great mirrorless cameras available for under $1,000. Here are eight of the best options we’ve found.
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Best for a Tight Budget – Canon EOS M50 Mark II
The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is a great option for those looking for an affordable camera with a lot of features. It boasts a 24.2MP APS-C sensor and the EF-M lens mount for compact Canon lenses, and it comes with a 15-45mm zoom lens as well. For those who want even more zoom range, the two-lens kit adds a 55-200mm zoom yet the whole package still comes in well under $1,000.
The M50 Mark II is also packed with features that make it especially useful for those who want to shoot and share video online, including wireless YouTube streaming, vertical video and an HDMI out. It captures UHD 4K at 24p and 10
Best Full-Frame – Canon EOS RP
Canon’s EOS RP is a compact mirrorless camera with a 26.2MPfull-frame CMOS sensor and a $999 price tag. Although 26.2MP may not be anything to write home about, the sensor size is impressive.
For those who want the full-frame look, there are few mirrorless options under $1,000, unless you go the route of a pre-owned camera. Full-frame sensors make achieving wide angles of view much easier, a boon to landscape shooters and street photographers alike, as well as anyone who relishes buttery smooth bokeh (the quality of the out of focus area of an image).
Best for Sports and Wildlife – Sony A6100
If you’re tired of waiting for your camera to find focus, Sony’s A6100 may be the perfect model for you. With 24.2MP and APS-C compact camera capabilities, it has great autofocus that tracks moving subjects very well and is easy to use.
It’s practically a point-and-shoot, but what pocket camera offers burst shooting up to 11fps with continuous autofocus and great subject-tracking? The autofocus is so fast and accurate, your pictures will be perfect every time.
Best Camera for Control Freaks – Fujifilm X-S10
Fujifilm’s X-S10 is a fraction of the cost of the X-T4, but uses the same top sensor, processor and autofocus system. (That’s the powerful 26.1MP APS-C X-Trans BSI CMOS 4 sensor and X-Processor 4.) And Fuji X-S10 is only the second camera in the series to have in-body image stabilization (after the X-H1), so handholding stills and video is easier than ever.
Best Image Quality on a Budget – Fujifilm X-T30
The image quality of the Fujifilm X-T3 is top-notch, and the X-T30 is no different. In 2018, we rated the X-T3 as the year’s best overall camera, and many of its features have trickled down to the more affordable Fujifilm X-T30.
These features include hybrid AF and the same 26.1MP APS-C X-Trans BSI CMOS 4 Sensor and X-Processor 4 quad-core CPU. These features position the retro-styled X-T30 to provide high quality in a small camera at a low price. Standout features of the X-T30 include improved AF performance and 4K video recording.
Best for Transitioning from a DSLR – Nikon Z50
Nikon has been a trusted name in the camera industry for many years, so when choosing a camera from them, you can expect to receive a product that is not only comfortable and easy to use, but also affordable.
The Nikon Z50 is a great entry-level mirrorless camera that won’t break the bank. If you’re hesitant to make the switch to mirrorless from DSLR out of fear that the compact mirrorless systems may not fit quite right, the Z50 is a great way to test the waters and see if mirrorless is right for you.