Mirrorless cameras: review of models. System camera or DSLR: which one to choose?

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) 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.

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.

SLR camera manufacturers offer a large selection of interchangeable optics for all occasions. However, to carry a device with two or three lenses, you will need a bulky bag.

The large size of SLR cameras is explained by the presence of a mechanically driven mirror. It is located in a special housing and directs the light incident through the lens to the optical viewfinder. When you press the shutter button all the way, the mirror rises, clearing the path for light falling on the sensor.

DSLR body sizes vary quite widely: there are both relatively small cameras (for example, the recently released Sony Alpha SLT-A55) and very impressive professional cameras like the Nikon D3s. The size of the lens must also be taken into account. Sometimes the photographer has to manipulate a two-kilogram device with a length of 30 cm.

System cameras have half the size and weight. The lack of a mirror and an optical viewfinder, with which you can sight the subject through the lens, affects it.

Instead, most system cameras have an electronic viewfinder. This is a small display that receives images directly from the matrix. Panasonic cameras have the viewfinder built into the body; Some manufacturers include an external viewfinder for shoe mounting. This allows you to reduce the size and weight of the device.

Let's compare: the Sony Alpha NEX-3 weighs only 239 g, the rather small Pentax K-r DSLR weighs about 600 g, and the Canon 7D weighs as much as 820 g. Lighter and more compact standard lenses are available for Panasonic (G series) and Olympus (PEN models) cameras Micro Four Thirds. Most compact cameras with interchangeable lenses, depending on the lens, weigh no more than 500 g.

Question of price

Separately, the camera and lens are quite expensive, but when purchasing a so-called kit (kit), you can save up to 30%. For example, a Nikon D3100 kit + AF-S DX Nikkor 18-55 VR lens is available for an average of 21 thousand rubles; when purchasing the body and lens separately, the price will be approximately 24 thousand rubles. (18.5 thousand rubles + 5.5 thousand rubles). The Canon EOS 550D DSLR (price without lens - 24 thousand rubles) complete with a lens with a triple zoom (5 thousand rubles) is available at a price of 27 thousand rubles.

The Olympus E-P2 system camera without a lens costs about 25 thousand rubles; a kit including a lens with a three-fold zoom will cost approximately 12 thousand rubles. expensive. The price of the lens individually is about 14 thousand rubles.

The Panasonic LUMIX DMC-G2 compact camera with a 14–41 mm lens can be purchased for 22 thousand rubles. And the NEX-3 and NEX-5 models from Sony, complete with a lens, are available at prices ranging from 15 and 19 thousand rubles. respectively.

A set of a Panasonic LUMIX DMC-GH2 system camera and a 10x zoom lens is currently the most expensive among similar devices - approximately 60 thousand rubles.

Attention! The cost of additional lenses for relatively new models of system cameras is usually significantly higher than for DSLRs. For example, a 10x telezoom Panasonic H-VS014140E costs 35 thousand rubles!

In most cases, more affordable third-party products for system cameras are not available - while for a DSLR, a 10x zoom lens from Sigma or Tamron can be purchased for less than 10 thousand rubles. Replacement module Ricoh S10 24-72 mm F2.5-4.4 VC with A 3x zoom lens and a 10-megapixel sensor for a Ricoh GXR camera will cost approximately 20 thousand rubles. And for a 50 mm Ricoh A12 50 mm F2.5 lens with a fixed focal length and a 12.3-megapixel matrix you will have to pay about 39 thousand rubles.

Equipment

Both DSLRs and system cameras have many useful features and automatic modes. However, the situation with outbreaks is not the same. In DSLRs, the flash is built into the body; Among compact cameras with interchangeable lenses, only the G1, G2, GH1 and GH2 from Panasonic have a similar design. All other system cameras require an external flash.

System cameras often cannot use the viewfinder and flash at the same time. Compacts with interchangeable lenses are capable of displaying subjects on an LCD display; however, modern models of SLR cameras are not without this ability.

Control

Even a beginner can operate both types of cameras. In SLR cameras, the subject being photographed and the selected parameters are displayed extremely clearly and clearly in the optical viewfinder. Electronic viewfinders on system cameras exhibit lower image quality. But they have a number of useful additional functions.

Video shooting

All system and modern SLR cameras allow you to shoot video, including in HD quality. Models Panasonic GH2 and Sony NEX-5 record videos in Full HD resolution (1920x1080 pixels), the rest record with a resolution of no more than 1280x720 pixels. Modern DSLRs, with the exception of the Pentax K-r, are capable of shooting video in Full HD format. However, in auto focus mode, some of them are not fast enough.

Photography

DSLR cameras demonstrate the best image quality - however, system models are only slightly inferior to them. Due to the fact that the matrices of both types of cameras are almost 10 times larger in size than the matrices of conventional compact cameras, it is possible to take photographs with very low noise levels even in low light conditions.

Depth of field (DOF) is changed by increasing or decreasing the aperture size. And thanks to a large selection of interchangeable lenses, the appropriate focal length can be selected for any shooting conditions. Inexpensive compact cameras can't compete in this regard: their photos tend to be less detailed and contain more noise.

ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES

Bottom line

Both DSLR and system cameras provide excellent image quality while providing plenty of manual adjustments. And they cost almost the same. Anyone who is the proud owner of an analogue SLR camera is recommended to purchase a digital SLR. By being loyal to the brand, the photographer will likely be able to continue to use the lenses he or she owns.

However, you may encounter some functional limitations in the autofocus mode. System cameras are ideal for beginners and ambitious owners of regular compacts. They are easy to operate and have many useful features, such as an intelligent system for automatically selecting a subject program. In addition, the small and lightweight camera is convenient for the owner and invisible to others.

Welcome to my blog again. I’m in touch with you, Timur Mustaev. Since nowadays there are different types of digital cameras, in today’s article I would like to touch on the topic of mirrorless 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

1. Small dimensions. Mirrorless cameras are only slightly larger in size than point-and-shoot cameras. Makes it possible to take a large number of lenses with you.
2. Light weight.
3. High image quality. The image quality is the same as that of amateur SLR cameras.
4. Silence. The shutter is quieter than DSLR cameras because there is no mirror.
5. No vibration. Vibrations are practically not felt due to the absence of a mirror, which means it is possible to obtain sharper images.
6. High-quality standard optics. Kit lenses are of better quality than budget DSLRs.
7. High shooting speed. The ability to use 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.
8. Easy and fast cleaning process. Since there is no mirror, there are no unnecessary problems. Cleaning is done when the lens is disconnected and is quite possible at home.
9. 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.
10. 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 you take a Nikon D5100 SLR camera, 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

1. 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.
2. 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 work with this viewfinder in the dark due to the fact that the display transmits a lot of digital noise, and the image is barely visible. Recently, cameras have begun to come out with both electronic and optical viewfinders, which significantly improves the photographer’s work.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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. Small dimensions are sacrificed for image quality and low battery charge, which can become a playing factor for a photographer photographing 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.

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

All the best to you, Timur Mustaev.

At the heart of mirrorless technology is the electronic viewfinder. Its use allows you to reduce the size of the camera compared to SLR cameras, while maintaining advanced functionality and interchangeable optics.

The first mirrorless cameras, which appeared in the early 2000s, were not in demand due to their high cost and limited capabilities. But in recent years the situation has changed. The technical parameters of modern models are comparable to DSLRs and are second only to professional equipment. But the mass distribution of mirrorless cameras is hampered by the high cost and underdeveloped optics fleet. The use of adapters and non-native lenses often leads to a decrease in quality.

Mirrorless technologies are being actively developed by all photographic equipment manufacturers, including the leaders of the “mirror” market Canon and Nikon, but so far their successes in the new field cannot be called outstanding. The palm here belongs to Olympus and Panasonic, but in recent years Sony has become the generally recognized leader.

Mirrorless cameras are confidently conquering the market and may eventually displace DSLR cameras. However, novelty is a limiting factor in increasing sales. Even sellers in specialized stores are not always ready to provide competent consultation. Therefore, when choosing, it is advisable to focus on reviews, reviews and ratings of the best mirrorless cameras.

The best mirrorless cameras for hobbyists

3 Canon EOS M10 Kit

Best price
Country: Japan
Average price: RUB 26,990.
Rating (2018): 4.6

Canon has not yet succeeded in producing high-end mirrorless cameras, but among the budget range, the EOS M10 attracts attention. Compact size and ease of control will appeal to beginners. The camera will easily fit into a handbag and will not attract unnecessary attention. The lack of controls is compensated by a rotating touch display.

At the same time, the mirrorless camera contains everything you need to master the basics of creative photography, including manual settings for shutter speed, aperture and RAW format. Canon is also suitable for recording amateur videos.

The ability to change lenses will expand your creative boundaries and potential for professional growth. Among the disadvantages, users note an uncomfortable grip, undeveloped ergonomics and autofocus that misses in the twilight, but for such a price this is forgivable. The Canon EOS M10 will be the best for beginner photographers who want to learn the basics of photography, but are not ready to purchase bulky SLR cameras.

2 Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II Kit

The best ratio of price and quality. Optical stabilizer
Country: Japan
Average price: RUB 46,999.
Rating (2018): 4.7

The last of the mirrorless cameras in the younger Olympus line turned out to be the most balanced. Behind the retro style lies an advanced electronic filling. The advantages of the camera include a large electronic viewfinder, high sensitivity, good color rendition and fast autofocus. The new version has a useful option on the rotating touch screen: selecting a focus area with your finger across the screen.

But what makes the OM-D E-M10 Mark II the best among its competitors is the built-in 5-axis optical stabilizer, which not all older models have. With it you can confidently shoot handheld at long shutter speeds in low light and record video.

There are no complaints about the picture resolution in video mode; the maximum video frequency is 120 frames. The rate of fire is also high. 8.5 frames per second is enough for professional reportage photography. The buffer is not rubber, but spacious: the maximum series of images is 22 in RAW format. Among the disadvantages, users note the illogical menu, but you can get used to it.

1 Sony Alpha ILCE-6000 Kit

The most popular mirrorless camera. Best autofocus
Country: Japan
Average price: RUB 49,890.
Rating (2018): 4.8

Despite its compact size, this mirrorless camera will give odds to most amateur DSLRs. The main competitive advantage is the best autofocus speed. A record 179 points provide full frame coverage; Sony can easily cope with any dynamic scenes. The impressive shooting speed of 11 frames per second will not let reporters down.

Tenacious tracking autofocus could make the model a leader in video quality. Full HD resolution and recording speed meet modern requirements, but the manufacturer decided not to focus on video. There is no microphone jack on the body, and users complain about the camera overheating during prolonged continuous use.

An indisputable advantage of the Sony Alpha ILCE-6000 is also its low noise level. ISO up to 3200 is rated as working, and 6400 is guaranteed to be suitable for a home album. Other useful features include Wi-Fi, NFC and a rotating screen.

The only drawback of a mirrorless camera is the cost, which beginner photographers will find unreasonably high.

The best mirrorless cameras for advanced users

3 Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Body

The best mirrorless camera for videographers. 4K video recording
Country: Japan
Average price: 85,750 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.6

The camera became the first mirrorless camera to record video in 4K format. It was released in 2014, but still holds its position in the ratings.

But the advantages of the camera will be appreciated more by videographers than by photographers. A huge number of manual settings, enviably high bitrate, 4K format. Interchangeable optics provide scope for creative experiments, and modern electronics are responsible for quality. The picture detail is comparable to professional video cameras.

But in terms of image quality, a mirrorless camera is inferior to its competitors: the only advantage is its exorbitant rate of fire. At the same time, sharpness suffers, noise is noticeable even at minimum ISO values.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 corrects the shortcomings of the previous version. Today, this is the best mirrorless camera for video shooting, which combines compact dimensions, thoughtful ergonomics and high detail. The lack of a stabilizer prevents the camera from getting closer to the ideal.

2 Sony Alpha ILCE-7S Body

Better sensitivity and dynamic range. Full frame camera
Country: Japan
Average price: RUB 139,900.
Rating (2018): 4.7

The release of the full-frame Sony Alpha A7s was a technological breakthrough in the world of digital photography. By increasing the pixel size, the manufacturer has achieved previously unimaginable sensitivity. During daylight hours this solution does not provide any benefits, but in the dark Sony shows incredible results. Experts agree that when ISO is set to 6400, the use of noise reduction is not required. Wide dynamic range allows you to capture details even in complete darkness. Other advantages include a metal case, a folding display and Wi-Fi.

The mirrorless camera has impressive video potential. Contrast focusing does not lose autofocus even if the subject is constantly moving. All settings are adjusted during shooting. The frame rate of the video reaches 120 frames per second, and when connecting an external recorder, recording in 4K format is possible.

The main complaint against Sony is its weak battery. When traveling and shooting for long periods of time, you will need several spare units. In addition, the mirrorless camera has a low rate of fire: 5 frames per second is not enough for reporters, but the manufacturer set itself other goals.

A mirrorless camera is best for shooting in low light conditions. Of course, it has some shortcomings that the second version released eliminates, but the cost of the new model is disproportionately higher.

1 Sony Alpha ILCE-7R Body

The best ratio of price and quality. Full frame camera
Country: Japan
Average price: RUB 96,829.
Rating (2018): 4.8

Even a quick glance at the Alpha ILCE-7R makes it clear that the mirrorless camera is aimed at professionals. The advanced ergonomics will appeal to photographers who quickly navigate button functionality.

But the full-frame sensitive sensor will make a greater impression on the pros. The absence of a low-frequency optical filter made it possible to achieve impressive image sharpness. According to the most picky experts, there is no noise up to 3200 ISO. If we take into account the increased size of the matrix to 36 megapixels, then the mirrorless camera becomes a universal tool for planner and studio. However, maximum detail and high resolution require a skillful approach and control over the depth of field.

By adding pleasant color reproduction, protection of the body from dust and moisture, wireless control and file reset, we get the best mirrorless camera in its class.

In addition, Sony is suitable for videographers. The camera has the necessary connectors, tracking autofocus and real Full HD resolution. The only thing missing is a stabilizer.

Disadvantages include a loud shutter sound, slow automation and a slow shooting speed of 4 frames per second.

The best mirrorless cameras for professionals

4 Sony Alpha ILCE-7M3 Body

Image quality
Country: Japan
Average price: 144,990 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.7

24 megapixel full-frame matrix, producing photos in a resolution of 6000x4000. The autofocus is hybrid and pleases with its speed, large number of points, tracking function and “smart” operation when shooting portraits. There are connectors for headphones, microphone and USB Type-C, as well as support for two flash cards at once. The screen only rotates up and down, which is convenient when shooting from the stomach, for example, but vertical photos from above will have to be taken blindly. But you can specify focus points directly on the screen: the system will understand you.

Electronic viewfinder with 100% field of view. The battery is quite capacious - it is enough for 510 photos, although in burst mode the Alpha ILCE-7M3 is capable of producing several thousand frames on a single charge. User reviews note that the camera can withstand more than a 5-hour interval in active mode without recharging.

3 Fujifilm X-T20 Body

Best price
Country: Japan
Average price: 59,990 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.7

Compact universal version of Japanese quality. The device is great for both video and photos in professional quality. There is a 24-megapixel matrix that creates 4K video content without cropping. The screen is touch-sensitive and rotatable, the diagonal size is three inches. I'm glad that the camera does not overheat even when recording video in ultra format.

Despite its touching size, the camera is capable of producing excellent images with excellent quality. It's a pity that there is no function for changing ISO when recording video. Otherwise, this is a professional mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses, encrypted as a budget compact camera. The camera made it to the top of the best cameras not only due to its reasonable price, but also due to the surprisingly high quality of the footage.

2 Sony Alpha ILCE-A7R III Body

Dual memory card support
Country: Japan
Average price: RUB 229,990.
Rating (2018): 4.8

The compact professional version with a 44 MP matrix and support for 4K video also made it to the top. Autofocus performs its function properly even in the twilight. When shooting portraits, autofocus focuses on the eyes - convenient. Matrix stabilization is a great help when filming. The viewfinder is electronic and of high quality. The processor is powerful and even while saving the captured frame, it leaves the user the opportunity to change settings and navigate the menu.

The menu, unfortunately, is very overloaded - in the labyrinth of settings it is difficult to quickly navigate and get to the desired characteristics. But even in poor lighting, the photos do not blur and are of high quality. Another pleasant bonus for wedding and reportage photographers is the high shooting speed. Up to 10 frames are created per second. Every megapixel of the matrix is ​​felt and expressed in the quality of the pictures. The body is nice, the wheels are metal, the button travel is tight, so you can feel every press. The shutter button is smooth.

1 Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II Kit

High resolution images. Operation speed
Country: Japan
Average price: 182,990 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.9

A mirrorless compact option for those who engage in photography at a professional level. There is a 20-megapixel camera that shoots in a resolution of 5184 x 3888, an electronic viewfinder, and a touch-sensitive rotating LCD display. Autofocus is hybrid and works quickly, correctly and accurately. The number of focusing points is amazing - 121. There is manual focusing and even an electronic rangefinder.

The body is made of metal and is protected from dust and water. The gadget fits perfectly in the hand, providing a comfortable grip with a well-thought-out body shape. Auto ISO is programmable, which allows you to get a high-quality frame without noise. The detail is amazing, especially in RAW format. White balance in automatic mode works well – color rendition is natural. For portraits and reportage photos, this is the optimal model considering price and quality. In addition, there is excellent stabilization, fast operation (from switching on to frame processing) and tenacious focus with a tracking function.

In 2008, the first models of mirrorless cameras entered the market. These cameras are called differently:

• EVIL (Electronic Viewfinder with Interchangable Lens) - electronic viewfinder and interchangeable lenses,
• MILC (Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens (Compact) Camera) is a mirrorless compact camera with interchangeable lenses,
• ILC (Interchangeable Lens Compact) - interchangeable lenses compact,
• ACIL (Advanced Camera with Interchangeable Lens) - an advanced camera with an interchangeable lens.

These are all names of one class of cameras: mirrorless system digital cameras with interchangeable lenses.

Differences between mirrorless cameras

The main difference between this class of cameras and SLR cameras is absence of a movable mirror and pentaprism. This made it possible to reduce the working distance of the lens.

Sighting and depth of field assessment occurs using an LCD screen or electronic viewfinder.

On the left is the mirror block of a SLR camera, on the right is the sighting and lens block of a mirrorless camera

Another difference is considered focusing method. Focusing in mirrorless cameras occurs only using the contrast method.

DSLR cameras use faster and more accurate phase focusing. But in mirrorless cameras, when manually focusing, you can bring the focusing area closer, which is an advantage. There may also be an indication of the contrast level in the focusing area, which makes focusing easier. Yes, and using the touchscreen you can select an object in the image on which to focus.

The latest models of mirrorless cameras also have phase focusing, which uses sensors built into the matrix. Then the camera uses hybrid focusing (phase and contrast).

What do system cameras provide?

The use of a mirrorless camera with a larger matrix than that of compacts and the ability to use interchangeable lenses allows the photographer to get Image quality comparable to photos taken with DSLR cameras. And all this with a camera comparable in size and weight to compacts.

In terms of their capabilities and price, mirrorless cameras are located between compacts and DSLRs. They are often comparable in performance to entry-level DSLRs. These cameras can be recommended for amateur photographers who lack the capabilities of a compact camera, but size and weight make a difference.

It is worth saying that the choice of optics for DSLRs is much larger, and you may encounter a problem when choosing the lens needed for a mirrorless camera in a particular situation. But manufacturers are constantly expanding their fleet of lenses for system mirrorless cameras, and various adapters are also being produced to match cameras and lenses.

Mirrorless cameras cannot replace professional SLR cameras, but for advanced amateurs they are quite suitable.

Pros and cons of mirrorless cameras

• The first and clearly striking argument of system (mirrorless) cameras is case size and weight. Still, the mirror unit takes up quite a bit of space in a DSLR camera.
• Large ASP-C matrix gives a big advantage to mirrorless cameras over compact cameras and does not allow them to be much inferior to full-format SLR cameras in this parameter.
• Having gotten rid of the mirror, the time for shooting has now been reduced. The shooting speed now depends only on the time of reading information from the matrix, which makes it possible to implement a shutter speed of 1/2000 sec. or less. The absence of a block of mirrors also led to the elimination of vibration of the body from the mechanical operation of this mirror.
• Using the screen as a viewfinder now allows you to fully appreciate the depth of field and brightness of the entire frame. But in some situations, when very precise focusing is needed, a screen with a limited resolution may not give the desired result. At the same time, in bright external lighting (bright sun), the LCD screen may lose its contrast and aiming will become difficult. This is where the optical viewfinder of a DSLR would have an advantage.
• Constant operation of the matrix, processor, screen leads to faster battery discharge and matrix overheating. This is not the case in DSLRs, because they aim through the optical viewfinder.
• In SLR cameras autofocus occurs according to the phase method, which uses the flow of light from the mirror in its work. System cameras do not have a mirror, so focusing is based on contrast analysis. But it is slower and less accurate.
• Another advantage of mirrorless cameras is that they are smaller lens flange distance. This is the distance from the last lens element to the matrix. This design allows telephoto lenses to be made smaller and lighter than for DSLRs. But at the same time, the production of wide-angle lenses becomes more difficult.

Examples of models

As an example of mirrorless cameras with interchangeable lenses, we present camera models that have been recognized as the best in recent years according to EISA.

Fujifilm X-Pro1 was recognized as the best professional system camera of 2012–2013. This camera uses a new X-Trans CMOS sensor, equipped with a special color filter. A hybrid viewfinder and Fujinon optics are used.

The approximate price of Fujifilm X-Pro1 is about $1000.

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 is recognized as a European compact system camera. Very fast autofocus and electronic viewfinder. There is a five-axis optical stabilization system. Matrix 17x13 mm with a resolution of 16 megapixels.

The approximate price of the Olympus OM-D E-M5 is about $1000.

Sony Alpha 7R is the best professional system camera of 2014. Matrix Full Frame, 36 MP.
Sony Alpha 7R

The approximate price of Sony Alpha 7R is about $2000.

Read more about the best cameras of 2014.