The best camera for photography 2024: top picks for every budget

With so many brands and so many options, finding the best cameras for photography can be frustratingly difficult. Regardless of whether you’re just starting or a seasoned veteran of many years, however, TechRadar can help. We’re constantly testing the very latest models from leading brands like Canon, Nikon, Sony, and Fujifilm and we’re confident we can serve up perfect options for all budgets.

Our guide to the best camera for photography features models for all skill levels - from novice all the way to professional. Each of our choices has been informed by our extensive reviewing process, which takes into account specs, performance, and our own real-world experience using these cameras. Aside from outright image quality and autofocus, we also thoroughly check how these cameras handle in the wild in various applications. Hundreds of hours are spent making sure these model’s features live up to the promise.

Overall, the best photography camera for most people currently is the Sony A7 IV - a flexible full-frame model that combines class-leading autofocus with great image quality and a fantastic lens ecosystem. It's not cheap, however, and those on a budget may be better served with the Canon EOS R10. This recommended entry-level model lacks the higher-end features of some choices on our list but it’s still best beginner camera right now thanks to its superb autofocus. 

Written by

Written by

Timothy Coleman

Tim is TechRadar's Cameras editor, with over 15 years in the photo video industry and most of those in the world of tech journalism, Tim has developed a deeply technical knowledge and practical experience with all things camera related. He notes, "it’s difficult to curate this guide because there are so many incredible cameras out there. We’ve rounded up options for all levels and for specific types of photography. A huge part of the enthusiast and advanced camera market is hybrid now, so if you’re only interested in photography you might be able to save some money by opting for a photo-oriented camera."

The quick list

If you’re looking for a shortcut to the best camera, the quick round-up below will give you an instant overview of the top options. When you find one that suits your needs and budget, use the links to jump to an in-depth summary.

The best camera for photography 2024

Below you'll find full write-ups for each of the best cameras in our list. We've tested each one extensively, so you can be sure that our recommendations can be trusted.

The best full-frame hybrid overall

Following the fantastic A7 III was never going to be easy, but the A7 IV is a worthy successor. With a new 33MP sensor that’s solid for both stills and video, it’s a compelling mirrorless option for hybrid shooters. In our review, we called it a "brilliant blend of photographic power and video versatility".

A price hike does mean it’s no longer an entry-level full-frame camera like its forebear, but a Bionz XR processor powers solid performance that broadly justifies the extra expenditure. 

The A7 IV also benefits from Sony’s class-leading autofocus skills, plus upgrades like 10-bit video and an almost endless buffer depth with a CFexpress card. Our tests found this buffer to be more generous than most photographers will need, with image quality leaning more towards resolution than low-light performance. 

No hybrid camera comes without compromise: there is a heavy crop on 4K footage and it isn't the simplest camera for beginners to use. The Canon EOS R6 also offers faster burst speeds for a similar price. But considering its powerful versatility and higher resolution, the Sony A7 IV deservedly takes our number one spot. 

Read our in-depth Sony A7 IV review

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The best pro camera for stills

If you see the Canon EOS R5 as a pro stills model with some impressive video features, then it's one of the best cameras the photography giant has ever made. There's no doubt it has video limitations compared to a rival like the Sony A7S III, particularly for shooting longer clips. But after our review, we found it great for anyone looking to shoot mind-blowing stills in almost any situation, whether that's wildlife or studio work. It's a hugely impressive achievement. 

Particularly worthy of mention is the EOS R5's autofocus, which we found offers very accurate and reliable subject-detection and tracking – particularly when its comes to people or animals. You also get a superb 5.76-million pixel EVF, a body design that will be comfortably familiar to those coming from DSLRs, and the ability to shoot bursts at 12fps with the mechanical shutter (or 20fps with the electronic equivalent). 

The video performance, while limited to relatively short bursts, remains superior to the likes of the Nikon Z7 and Sony A9 II, too. With a growing collection of (albeit pricey) RF lenses, the Canon EOS R5 is the next-gen mirrorless camera that pro photographers have been waiting for. 

Read our in-depth Canon EOS R5 review

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The best mirrorless camera for beginners

It isn't the cheapest camera for beginners, but we think the Canon EOS R10 is the best option for those starting their photographic journey. Spiritual successor to Canon's popular mid-range DSLRs, the EOS R10 has two standout skills: impressive subject-tracking autofocus and speedy 15fps burst shooting, which was previously unheard of at this price.

Both combine nicely to make the EOS R10 a versatile little camera for shooting all kinds of subjects, from portraits to speeding pets. During our autofocus testing, which we conducted on cats, deer and a rapid cockapoodle, the R10 found and tracked subjects' eyes very well, with 15fps burst speeds producing a decent hit rate. 

While it isn't a compact camera, the EOS R10 is lightweight at 429g and has a deep grip that makes it well-balanced in the hand with all kinds of lenses. Unfortunately, the EOS R10 doesn't yet have many native lenses (just two at the time of writing) and lacks in-body image stabilization. But if you're happy to buy some of the many full-frame RF lenses that work well with the camera, or adapt old ones using an EF-EOS R adapter, then it's a versatile sidekick that's ideal for fledgling snappers.

Read our in-depth Canon EOS R10 review

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The best APS-C camera for enthusiasts

If you’re shopping for a hybrid all-rounder, you should look elsewhere. While the Fujifilm X-T5 can record lovely 6.2K footage, photography is its focus – and that’s where it excels. Deploying the same 40.2MP APS-C sensor and X-Processor 5 as the Fujifilm X-H2, it delivers images of near-identical quality. If you’re upgrading from an older X-T model, you’ll also notice the benefits of in-body image stabilization, superior battery life and Fujifilm’s latest subject-detection autofocus, even if the latter can’t compete with Sony and Canon’s latest efforts.

Form factor also sets the X-T5 apart. We found its reduced dimensions reminiscent of the X-T1, making it a small, lightweight tool that’s perfect for everyday shooting. Its controls are also photog-friendly, with retro dials for ISO, shutter speed and exposure, plus a three-way tilting touchscreen that works better than a vari-angle for framing stills. Yes, the APS-C sensor limits low-light performance, while a modest buffer isn’t ideal for action snappers. But its marriage of performance and convenient form makes the X-T5 our favorite mirrorless camera for hobbyists.

Read our in-depth Fujifilm X-T5 review

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The best Micro Four Thirds camera for enthusiasts

Not everyone needs a full-frame camera. Like the Fujifilm X-T4, the OM System OM-1 embraces the benefits of a smaller sensor to create a compelling alternative for photographers who prioritize size, versatility and a fun handheld experience. Thanks to its stacked Micro Four Thirds sensor – the first of its kind – and a speedy TruePix X processor, the OM-1 performed admirably in most our tests. Quite simply, it's the one of the most enjoyable cameras you can buy. 

We found that the OM-1 performed well up to ISO 1600 and had slightly less aggressive noise reduction than its Olympus-made predecessors. Its computational modes are also the best you'll find outside a smartphone, with the likes of HIgh Res Shot, Live ND and in-camera Focus Stacking going some way to compensating for its smaller sensor. 

On the downside, its autofocus tracking isn't quite up to the level of Canon or Sony, and the controls can be a little fiddly. That 20MP resolution also isn't huge for a camera of this price. But if you can overlook those drawbacks, then the OM-1 (and its huge range of Micro Four Thirds lenses) will make a fine companion. 

Read our in-depth OM System OM-1 review

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The best camera for Canon enthusiasts

While the Canon EOS R5 (see below) is overkill for most people, the EOS R6 is a more affordable full-frame alternative that is simply one of the best cameras for photography around. If you already own one of Canon's early mirrorless full-framers like the EOS R, or any of its DSLRs, this is a more than worthy upgrade. 

Based on our review, the EOS R6 brings best-in-class autofocus, a superb in-body image stabilization system, and burst shooting powers that mark it out as a very fine camera for wildlife or sports photography.

Despite its ability to shoot 4K/60p video, the EOS R6 lacks the option to record DCI 4K. In our tests, we also found it to have overheating limitations compared to video-focused rivals like the Sony A7S III, making it better suited to stills photographers. But for photography, it’s an excellent – if pricey – option. It delivers hugely impressive autofocus, handling and features which make it one of the best options around for anyone who needs a full-frame camera.

Read our in-depth: Canon EOS R6 review

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The best camera for Nikon fans

The Nikon Z6 reigned at the top of this list for a long time. While the Z6 II is only a modest upgrade, it should definitely be on the shortlist of anyone who's looking for a full-frame camera. The Z6 continues to offer great value, but we think the Z6 II is worth the extra cost if you can afford it: our reviewing experience put it up there with our favorite mirrorless cameras.

Its Expeed 6 processor drives a host of improvements, including a new 14fps burst mode (up from 12fps on the Z6) and some handy autofocus boosts (particularly for animal eye/face detection). You also get an extra UHS-II card slot, which joins the existing XQD/CFexpress slot, and a firmware update has delivered a new 4K/60p video mode. 

Covering a range of scenarios, our tests found that the 24MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor performs well at high ISOs. The Z6 II also has class-leading build quality that feels more substantial in the hand than its rivals. 

Read our in-depth Nikon Z6 II review

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The best premium compact

On paper, the Fujifilm X100V shouldn’t make sense: a compact camera styled like something from the fifties, with a fixed 23mm f/2 lens and a premium price tag. Yet the model’s predecessors have become iconic among street photographers – and the X100V echoes their spirit. Understated and timeless, we found its compact retro body very special in our review. 

The X100V keeps what worked on the X100F, only tweaking what it needs to. There's now a tilting touchscreen – which we found very handy in testing – and a weather-resistant body (although you need to add a filter to the lens to get full weather-sealing). 

The series’ fixed aperture lens setup has always been fantastic for street and portrait photography, and the results are only better now that Fujifilm’s added a new 26.1MP APS-C sensor paired with the latest X-Processor 4. Autofocus is faster, noise control better and image quality improved. Sure, it’s niche and certainly not cheap, but there’s nothing else quite like it.

Read our in-depth Fujifilm X100V review

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The best DSLR for beginners

This list is dominated by mirrorless cameras, but if you still prefer the benefits of DSLRS – namely, their handling, superior battery lives and value – then we think the Nikon D3500 is the best one around for beginners. Taking the baton from the hugely successful Nikon D3400, it brings a 24MP APS-C sensor and an incredible 1,550-shot battery life that beats the stamina of most mirrorless cameras by about three times. 

The useful Guide mode is there to walk beginners through creating effects like a blurred background, while the Nikon DX system has a vast array of lenses. If you're starting out, we'd recommend buying the D3500 with the AF-P DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens, as its brings handy vibration reduction for very little extra cost. Those looking for a travel-friendly camera should still consider mirrorless alternatives like the Fujifilm X-T200 and Canon EOS M50 Mark II, but otherwise this remains a brilliant way to learn the photographic basics and start your new hobby.

Read our in-depth Nikon D3500 review

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The best instant camera

When it comes to photo quality, the Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 can’t compete with present company. But if you want an instant camera that’s affordable, easy to use and fun to shoot with, we think the Mini 12 is a winner. Building on everything we loved about the Instax Mini 11, it makes it simple for beginners to create small but vibrant printed snaps.

The Mini 12 benefits from parallax correction, which we found a useful addition: it means what you see when framing is closer to what gets printed. Fujifilm has also repositioned the exposure sensor to get more accurate readings, although we found that the Mini 12 still overexposes in bright sunlight.

We did find its design a little slippery to handle, but the lens controls are even more intuitive than before: you turn on the Mini 12 by twisting its lens, or activate the close-up mode by pulling it. This straightforward setup makes it even more appealing for parties and kids, especially when you factor in the affordable cost of film refills.

Read our in-depth Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 review

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The best high-res full-frame camera

The Sony A7R V takes up the mantle from the A7R IV as Sony’s sharpest full-frame mirrorless camera. As we found in our review, it also solves several of the A7R IV’s drawbacks to become a more complete professional camera. A new 61MP sensor and Bionz XR processor team up to deliver remarkably detailed stills. Eight stops of image stabilization made it easy to shoot handheld in testing, too. We were also impressed by the effectiveness of Real-rime Recognition AF. It’s not perfect, but it can generally detect a range of subjects and capture them crisply.

From our time with the A7R V, we think its level of detail makes it best suited to landscape and studio work. Do keep in mind that it only produces its best results when paired with top-spec lenses, which will add heavily to the already high price tag. The A7R IV offers the same resolution, but we do think the A7R V is the better camera overall, particularly with a sharper EVF that makes framing a joy. That said, if you don’t need so many sensor pixels, you’ll find better value for less elsewhere.

Read our in-depth Sony Alpha A7R V review

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The best pro hybrid for sports and wildlife

Blazingly quick, the Nikon Z9 is a fantastic choice for discerning photographers in need of a camera capable of keeping up with even the most intensive sports and wildlife applications. While large thanks to its built-in vertical grip, the Z9 is a heavyweight beast for multi-angle shooting thanks to its two-way tilting touchscreen.

All the Nikon hallmarks are present with this model - namely fantastic build quality and class-leading weather sealing but the Z9 takes it up a notch. At the time of its release, it was a groundbreaking model from the brand as the first professional-grade camera without a mechanical shutter - something made possible due to its stacked sensor’s readout speeds.

Subsequent firmware releases have meant that it’s only gotten better with age too. Alongside reliable Eye AF tracking, the Z9 is capable of serving up crisp video at 8K/60p, 4K/120fps, or oversampled 4K footage with a respectable 125-minute recording limit. Stills, as you would expect, are fantastic with beautiful images coming from the 45.7MP stacked CMOS sensor with excellent image stabilization.

The only potential downside with the Z9 is its larger form factor. This could be a non-issue if you prefer battery grips - or are used to the higher-end DSLRs of yesteryear - but there are smaller options out there. Nikon’s Z7 II for example offers the same level of detail for stills in a smaller package. It does, however, lack the Z9’s more advanced video features.  

Read our in-depth Nikon Z9 review

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The best camera for outright image quality

If money is no object and you want the very best image quality, then the Hasselblad X2D 100C is our top pick. It’s very much a camera for photography purists – in fact it doesn’t shoot video at all – but it’s far from being outdated. We love its refreshing simplistic design and ergonomics that lets you focus on taking pictures. We also appreciated the convenience of its built-in 1TB of SSD storage.

And then there’s its 100MP medium format sensor that produces images packed with detail and unmatched color rendition, while its in-body image stabilization – a first for Hasselblad – eliminates the need for a tripod, which was previously unthinkable for a medium format camera. 

That’s not to say it doesn’t occupy a narrow niche: burst shooting tops out at 3.3fps, and even with speed enhancements, its autofocus still lags far behind the latest mirrorless models. Its native lens range is also lacking a proper telephoto option. Yet despite these drawbacks, the X2D is right up there with our favorite medium format cameras, and one to get with that winning lottery ticket. 

Read our in-depth Hasselblad X2D 100C review

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How to choose the best camera for you

The main thing to look at when buying a digital camera is sensor size. Larger isn't always better, but it is a good guide to what kind of camera it is, how expensive the lenses will be, and who it's aimed at. In general, Micro Four Thirds and APS-C cameras are for both hobbyists and pros, while full-frame models tend to be strictly for advanced photographers with bigger budgets. Compact cameras with 1-inch sensors are for travel zooms and everyday photography. 

Other features to look out for are viewfinders (electronic or optical), which are considered essential by most photographers, and handling. If you're likely to want to use longer lenses, then a good grip is essential. You should also consider which lenses you're likely to need for your favorite types of photography – for example, bright prime lenses are better for portraits and street shooting, while wide-angle zooms are more useful for landscapes. Deciding which camera system, including lenses, is the best for you is often better than choosing a camera in isolation.

How we test cameras

Buying a camera these days is a big investment, so every camera in this guide has been tested extensively by us. These days, real-world tests are the most revealing way to understand a camera's performance and character, so we focus heavily on those, along with standardized tests for factors like ISO performance.

To start with, we look at the camera's design, handling and controls to get a sense of what kind of photographer it's aimed at and who would most enjoy shooting with it. When we take it out on a shoot, we'll use it both handheld and on a tripod to get a sense of where its strengths lie, and test its startup speed.

When it comes to performance, we use a formatted UHS-1 card and shoot in both raw and JPEG (if available). For burst shooting tests, we dial in our regular test settings (1/250 sec, ISO 200, continuous AF) and shoot a series of frames in front of a stopwatch to see if it lives up to its claimed speeds. We'll also look at how quickly the buffers clears and repeat the test for both raw and JPEG files.

In various lighting conditions, we also test the camera's different autofocus modes (including Face and Eye AF) in single point, area and continuous modes. We also shoot a range of photos of different styles (portrait, landscape, low light, macro/close-up) in raw and JPEG to get a sense of metering and its sensor's ability to handle noise and resolve fine detail.

If the camera's raw files are supported by Adobe Camera Raw, we'll also process some test images to see how we can push areas like shadow recovery. And we'll also test its ISO performance across the whole range to get a sense of the levels we'd be happy to push the camera to.

Battery life is tested in a real-world fashion, as we use the camera over the course of the day with the screen set to the default settings. Once the battery has reached zero, we'll then count the number of shots to see how it compares to the camera's CIPA rating. Finally, we test the camera's video skills by shooting some test footage at different frame-rates and resolutions, along with its companion app.

We then take everything we've learned about the camera and factor in its price to get a sense of the value-for-money it offers, before reaching our final verdict.

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