Mid-range Mirrorless camera roundup (2013)
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Mid-range Mirrorless camera roundup 2013
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One of the most significant developments in digital photography has been the introduction of mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras. By removing the mirror and optical viewfinder, manufacturers are able to make their cameras smaller, without compromising ergonomics, performance and, in most cases, image quality.
Composing photos on a mirrorless camera is different from a DSLR in that you use the camera's LCD (or electronic viewfinder, if the camera offers it). Instead of using a traditional phase detection system like a DSLR, mirrorless cameras use their imaging sensors to handle focusing. Focusing speeds on the latest cameras often meet or exceed those of DSLRs.
While the mirrorless market started off very slowly, there's now a wide selection of cameras available from all of the major manufacturers. In this article, we'll be covering the midrange models, which have list prices ranging from $749 to $1399 with a kit lens. They include:
Since the range in pricing is so great, we believe there are two groups of people who may be considering cameras in this class. One group wants a more compact, secondary camera in addition to their DSLR, but want more direct control than less expensive mirrorless models offer. The other is the photographer for whom this will be their only camera - someone who wants DSLR image quality and control without the additional size or weight.
On the following pages you'll get a quick summary of each camera, and what we liked (or didn't like) about them).
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Nov 23, 2016
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Sep 5, 2016
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Jun 3, 2016
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Dec 18, 2015
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Fujifilm has released its promised firmware update for its X-E2 mid-range mirrorless camera. The firmware update adds a host of feature and operational improvements, bringing it into line with the X-E2S. The improvements include the AF upgrades from the recent X-T models, as well as a revised user interface and multiple AutoISO settings. Read more
Zhi Yuen Yap finds living in New Zealand a blessing and a curse. Getting off the beaten path to find unique locations can mean braving harsh, unpredictable weather and inhospitable terrain. Based on his photos, though, we'd say he's been pretty well rewarded for his troubles. Take a look at his work and find out more about him in our Q&A. Read more
While plenty of DSLRs also have a built-in flash, the feature has been out of favor with mirrorless manufacturers, prioritizing miniaturization. This is where the Metz mecablitz 26 AF-1 digital steps in. Small compared to standard hotshoe flash units, it's still a good deal larger than those that come in the box with most mirrorless cameras. Read review
Update: Firmware updates are now available - click through for a download link. Fujifilm has unveiled two macro extension tubes for its X-series interchangeable lens cameras, as well as a launch date for the previously-promised Fujifilm X-T1 firmware. More firmware updates are also announced for the X-E2, X-E1, X-Pro1 and X-30, as well as the introduction of tethering software for PC. Read more
Rumors are circulating about a possible successor to the Olympus OM-D E-M5. According to rumor site 43rumors.com, the camera is likely to be called the Olympus E-M5II or the Olympus E-M5 Mark II and is said to feature a 16MP sensor but with a sensor shift function allowing users to boost resolution up to an equivalent 40MP. Read more (albeit not all that much more)
No Nikon camera we've tested to date balances stills and video capture as well as the Nikon Z7. Though autofocus is less reliable than the D850, Nikon's first full-frame mirrorless gets enough right to earn our recommendation.
Nikon's Coolpix P1000 has moved the zoom needle from 'absurd' to 'ludicrous,' with an equivalent focal length of 24-3000mm. While it's great for lunar and still wildlife photography, we found that it's not suited for much else.
As a stills camera the Fujifilm X-T3 is a pleasant update to one of our favorite APS-C cameras, significantly improving the autofocus. If you're interested in stills and video, though, it's knockout.
The Nikon Z7 is slated as a mirrorless equivalent to the D850, but it can't subject track with the same reliability as its DSLR counterpart. AF performance is otherwise good, except in low light where hunting can lead to missed shots.
The Canon EOS R is the first full frame mirrorless camera to use the new RF mount. We're well underway putting it through our range of standard tests – take a look at how it compares to the competition and our thoughts on using it so far.
What's the best camera for under $500? These entry level cameras should be easy to use, offer good image quality and easily connect with a smartphone for sharing. In this buying guide we've rounded up all the current interchangeable lens cameras costing less than $500 and recommended the best.
Whether you've grown tired of what came with your DSLR, or want to start photographing different subjects, a new lens is probably in order. We've selected our favorite lenses for Sony mirrorlses cameras in several categories to make your decisions easier.
Whether you've grown tired of what came with your DSLR, or want to start photographing different subjects, a new lens is probably in order. We've selected our favorite lenses for Canon DSLRs in several categories to make your decisions easier.
Whether you've grown tired of what came with your DSLR, or want to start photographing different subjects, a new lens is probably in order. We've selected our favorite lenses for Nikon DSLRs in several categories to make your decisions easier.
What’s the best camera for less than $1000? The best cameras for under $1000 should have good ergonomics and controls, great image quality and be capture high-quality video. In this buying guide we’ve rounded up all the current interchangeable lens cameras costing under $1000 and recommended the best.
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