Mirrorless cameras: review of models. What to choose - a mirrorless camera or a DSLR camera

Welcome to my blog again. I’m in touch with you, Timur Mustaev. Since nowadays there are different kinds digital cameras, then in today’s article I would like to touch on the topic without SLR cameras. Let's get started.

What is a system camera? This is a mixed class of digital cameras, which is a compact technique with interchangeable lenses and no mirror. Well, let’s immediately agree that system cameras and mirrorless cameras are one and the same.

In fact, all the advantages and disadvantages will be considered in comparison with SLR cameras.

Advantages

Small dimensions. Mirrorless cameras are only slightly larger in size than point-and-shoot cameras. Gives you the opportunity to take a large number of lenses with you.
Light weight.
High image quality. The image quality is the same as that of amateur SLR cameras.
Silence. The shutter is quieter than DSLR cameras because there is no mirror.
No vibration. Vibrations are practically not felt due to the absence of a mirror, which means it is possible to obtain sharper images.
High-quality standard optics. Kit lenses are of better quality than budget DSLRs.
High shooting speed. Possibility of using shutter speeds of 1/2000 s or less due to the absence of a mirror. On average, you can take 10-12 pictures per second.
Easy and fast cleaning process. Since there is no mirror - no unnecessary problems. Cleaning is done when the lens is disconnected and is quite possible at home.
Availability of large ASP-C matrix. System cameras outperform compacts in this regard, and with full-format SLR cameras they are almost on the same level.
More mileage. Each digital camera has its own conditional shelf life, which is called mileage - the number of frames taken by the camera before the structure wears out. For example, if we take reflex camera Nikon D5100, then its mileage will be 100,000 shots, that is, it can be used for 3-4 years. For mirrorless cameras, this figure is much higher, mainly due to the lack of a mirror. I have two detailed articles: and.

Flaws

Small selection of accessories. The choice of suitable accessories (lenses, flashes, etc.) is significantly small compared to DSLRs. I think this is temporary, since system cameras appeared on the market not so long ago, just at the beginning of this century.
No optical viewfinder. The photographer uses only a display or an electronic viewfinder. This affects inaccurate focus adjustment and incorrect color reproduction. It is difficult to operate this viewfinder in dark time days due to the fact that the display transmits a lot of digital noise, and the picture is barely visible. IN Lately Cameras with both electronic and optical viewfinders began to appear, which significantly improves the photographer’s work.
Control suffers due to compactness. There are few control buttons on the body. Most of the functions are moved to a multi-level menu, which is not very acceptable for most photographers, since you have to learn the location of the functions and spend a lot of time on settings. Holding the camera is also not entirely comfortable.
Contrast autofocus. Since autofocus is contrast, that is, the camera adjusts the parameters according to contrast, its operation is very slow and less accurate. It is being adjusted gradually. This will prevent you from shooting sports photography. The absence of a mirror affects. In some cameras, manufacturers have begun to implement hybrid autofocus (phase-contrast), which significantly speeds up and corrects shooting.
High price. Since system cameras are a new trend in the photographic equipment market, the price is corresponding. In numerous cases, the cost of mirrorless cameras and their accessories is higher than their DSLR counterparts.
Rapid battery discharge and short service life. The combined operation of the processor, matrix and display leads to rapid discharge of the camera. Mirrorless cameras with a single battery can be used for 300 shots, while DSLR cameras are capable of 800 or more. This problem affects travelers the most.
Contrast differences. In the images you see a strong contrast between white and black and very little in between - grey.

Kinds

System cameras are divided into 3 types:

Amateur

Semi-professional

Professional: Sony a7, Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH3.

System cameras are a controversial category of digital cameras. Sure, they beat compacts, but not DSLRs. The image quality and low battery charge are sacrificed for small dimensions, which can become a playing factor for a photographer shooting wildlife in remote places. In terms of cost, many cameras can be superior to inexpensive DSLRs since this is a new category of digital cameras on the market. The choice is yours.

And finally, I would like to say, do not forget to clean your camera, be it a point-and-shoot camera, a mirrorless camera or a DSLR. I use pencil And with a cloth for cleaning, which are always with me and always help me out. I bought them on Aliexpress and was impressed by the quality. And also, I wrote a detailed article. Be sure to read it carefully so as not to damage the lens.

If you have a SLR camera and you want to learn how to use it correctly using different shooting modes, and not take photographs in “AUTO”, then the video courses below are for you.

Digital SLR for a beginner 2.0- for supporters of the NIKON SLR camera.

My first MIRROR- for supporters of the CANON SLR camera.

And I say goodbye to you, subscribe to my blog, share with your friends on social networks.

All the best to you, Timur Mustaev.

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:

Viewfinder. Since the viewfinder in such devices is optical, it allows you to see the raw image in real time without delay.
Fast autofocus.
Great possibilities for connecting removable optics for different conditions shooting.
Better image quality.
The cameras turn on instantly, which allows you to immediately start shooting without waiting for the device to “wake up”.
High shooting speed.
Long battery life. Thus, some models are capable of producing up to three thousand frames using one battery charge.
The flash is built into the body of the device.
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:

Large dimensions of the device.
The weight of the device, which can sometimes reach two kilograms when assembled.
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.
These devices are quite fragile and require particularly careful use.
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 wide list 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;
equipping cameras with various configuration tools and 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 is a fairly budget camera that is not inferior in frame 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;
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, and 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 shooting by professional photographers, as they make it possible to create photographs of the highest quality. Thanks to their high productivity and speed of operation, mirror-type devices allow you to photograph sporting events, various competitions, and various kinds of celebrations. Mirrorless system devices have become widespread among photography enthusiasts and active rest thanks to its compact design. This type of camera is suitable for both beginners and advanced amateur photographers.

On currently Sigma offers just one system DSLR camera, the SD1 Merrill, with a SIGMA SA mount and an APS-C sensor. This year, two mirrorless cameras were announced, compatible with the SIGMA SA mount, equipped with electronic viewfinders: sd Quattro (APS-C matrix) and sd Quattro H (APS-H matrix). Cameras differ in matrix size and resolution.

System and intersystem compatibility

As a rule, lenses from “senior” photo systems from one company can be successfully used with cameras from “junior” systems from the same company, but backward compatibility is always problematic. In order to install a full-frame lens on an SLR camera with an APS-C matrix, no additional equipment is required. The lens will work great, and its focal length will increase by the crop factor value (1.6). Installing a lens with a smaller image field (designed for cameras with APS-C sensors) on cameras with a full-frame sensor is usually also possible, but the photo may show strong vignetting and deterioration of the image until it completely disappears towards the edge of the frame. Automatic or manual cropping, which cuts off the edges of the frame and reduces the resolution of the image, helps improve the result.

Installing a lens from an SLR system on a mirrorless camera with a matrix of any size is a little more difficult. The working distance of mirrorless cameras is smaller than that of SLR systems, so for correct operation of the lens you will need a special adapter ring, an adapter that increases the distance between the lens and the light-sensitive matrix.

So, in order to install a lens from DSLR systems on a Canon mirrorless camera of the EOS-M system, the MOUNT ADAPTER EF-EOS-M adapter is suitable.
Mount Adapter FT 1 performs a similar function for the Nikon One system.

Sony's range of adapters is somewhat wider, since the company decided to equip its adapters with an additional fast autofocus sensor with a translucent mirror. Sony LA-EA4 is an adapter with fast autofocus for full-frame mirrorless cameras, and LA-EA2 is suitable for cameras with APS-C matrices. Sony also has regular adapters without a mirror: owners of full-frame SLR cameras need the LA-EA3, and for cameras with an APS-C matrix, the LA-EA1 is suitable.

The Olympus MMF-3 Four Thirds and Panasonic DMW-MA1 adapters will help you pair the optics from DSLR cameras of the 4/3 system with mirrorless cameras of the Micro 4/3 system. In addition, Olympus produces adapters that allow the use of OM system optics with 4/3 (MF-1) and Micro 4/3 (MF-2) cameras.
The result of the collaboration between Panasonic and Leica are adapters that allow the use of Leica optics with Micro 4/3 cameras. The Panasonic DMW-MA2 adapter will allow you to mount Leica M lenses, and the DMW-MA3 will allow you to mount Leica R lenses.

The case when a company produces “native” adapters for using optics from other companies with its cameras is the exception rather than the rule. But independent manufacturers offer a lot of different adapters that allow you to install a wide variety of optics on cameras of all systems - albeit with certain functional limitations.

Help article based on expert opinion author.

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 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 shooting capabilities, their 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 its high price level, but also by a wide dynamic spectrum, low level noise 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 focuses on mechanical controls in the mirrorless segment. 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

Model lower level in the Fujifilm mirrorless segment, the advantages of which include modest size and ergonomic control. Despite the average specifications, material of fairly high quality can be extracted from this apparatus. This will be facilitated wide range shooting modes (again with a manual switch), 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 technology hybrid automatic focusing, 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

IN mandatory All cameras from this company are equipped with a stabilizer and a Wi-Fi module with the ability to be controlled 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 its compact size, this mirrorless camera, combined with the right lenses, produces excellent quality images.

Panasonic models

Of course, Panasonic also includes in its assortment completely “its own” developments of 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 respect of functional equipment also supported high level- NFC and Wi-Fi wireless communication modules, a built-in flash and an LCD display with a 180-degree rotating mechanism are provided. It will only upset experienced photographers 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. The increase in size relative to previous versions of NX is due to the use of a 4.77-inch diagonal 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.

Previously, almost every photographer had a bulky SLR camera with several lenses in a case. Progress has changed the situation a little and presented consumers with small mirrorless cameras. Today's topic: system cameras - review and comparison. Let's find out what exactly they should be praised for, and which device is better to choose.

Main features

Olympus started the “revolution” back in 2009. It was then that the first camera without a mirror system was born - Pen E-p1. For all manufacturers, this was a loud signal for change. A mirrorless camera has undeniable advantages - low weight and dimensions. These advantages were achieved due to the fact that the mirror system, which was very cumbersome, was removed from the design. This function in gadgets is performed by a sensor and a special connector for working with any lenses from DSLRs.

If you disassemble the device, you will not be able to find the optical viewfinder. For framing, the display is used, which is located on the rear panel. Budget models generally lack a viewfinder, since they frame directly on the LCD screen (like on mobile devices or point-and-shoot cameras).

Well, we’ve gotten to know the device superficially, why not now take a look at the rating of system cameras?

TOP 5 best system cameras

In this review there will be models with removable optics, which are extremely close or even superior to SLR cameras.

Olympus PEN E-PL7

Let's start the review and comparison of system cameras with a model from the Olympus brand, which has always been famous for its quality and wide functionality. At a minimum price, here, as always, there is maximum functionality. This model has absorbed into its essence the advantages of the best older brothers from the MFT (Micro Four Thirds) line:

a combination of the qualities of a good touch receiver and the small size of the device;
impressive functionality;
gigantic range of lenses available.

Important! The camera is perfect for amateur and advanced photographers (as a travel camera).

The technical specifications are as follows:

The aforementioned (4:3) bayonet mount.
Matrix 16.1 megapixels (17.3x13mm).
The shooting resolution is 1920x1080p.
3" touchscreen display that can be rotated.
Wi-Fi module for the Internet.
The weight of the device is 465 grams (without lens).

Flaws:

Expensive lenses.
Flimsy body materials.

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II

Another representative of a company that has caused a stir. This advanced gadget is the best choice for a photographer, since this model combines quality, functionality and a low price.

Important! The level of shooting may outshine some DSLR models, and the ability to parameterize shooting control only adds to the delight of looking at this gadget. It costs 660 dollars.

Characteristics:

MFT standard.
Matrix parameters: 17.2 megapixels (17.3x13mm).
Shoots video in Full HD resolution.
Equipped with a small (3-inch) touch screen and Wi-Fi wireless module.
The camera weighs exactly 390 grams, not including the lens.

Flaws:

The only significant disadvantage is the small battery capacity.

Sony Alpha ILCE-6000

The rating of system cameras continues with a truly fast model - the Sony a6000. The functionality of this small device is enough for the vast majority of photography enthusiasts. The body of one device combines:

ergonomics, quality of hybrid autofocus;
high-speed CPU (processor);
modern 24 megapixel APS-C matrix;
“ISO” up to 25600 and a shooting speed of 11 frames per second.

Important! The list can be continued endlessly, since there is tracking autofocus, an electronic viewfinder, and many other interesting devices. All this functionality will cost $750.

Worth highlighting:

E-mount from Sony.
25 MP APS-C matrix.
Shooting video in maximum resolution.
3-inch rotating screen.
Wireless communication module.
Weight 460 grams excluding lens.

Flaws:

Lack of touch display.
Difficulty in controlling menu functions.

Sony Alpha ILCE-5100

A very interesting model with extremely convenient controls and all the attributes that are so in demand among amateur photographers.

Important! This camera without mirrors has the characteristics of professional equipment and has no worthy competitors in its price category. The camera is decently balanced and is a great choice for those who enjoy taking family photos.
If you have not yet fully decided which type of equipment will be more convenient for you to use, ours will help you finally understand the details and make the right decision.

The technical details of this device are as follows:

E-mount from Sony.
24 MP – matrix based on APS-C technology.
Shoots video in a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels.
Sony 5100 is equipped with a touch screen that can rotate.
The camera has a module for wireless Internet connection.
The camera weighs 283 grams, excluding lenses.

Flaws:

The battery charge lasts for a maximum of an hour of operation.
There is no microphone input.
The assembly materials are not of the highest quality, which is why the device is extremely fragile.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1

The rating of mirrorless cameras with interchangeable lenses will be closed by an interesting model from Panasonic, which has been famous for its high reputation and popularity for many, many years. They have an excellent compact product with very wide functionality - Lumix GM1.

Important! This device is best suited for those enthusiasts who are used to photographing everything fully automatically or taking full control over all known parameters. This gadget is perfect for home use, individual use, and even for shooting on long trips.

Technical characteristics of this model.