Many of us enter the gear world of DSLR photography through the kit portal. You’ve probably bought one or more yourself, the APS-C sensor body plus a lens or two and maybe a gear bag from a big box store.
Once we play with it for a while, our camera dreams grow, and we start looking at the 12 best full frame cameras for our next investment.
If I just had a full frame body, you think, I could take the most amazing shots. Then I could display them, or have an art show, or sell them online. And in truth, upgrading to a full frame will bring an immediate improvement in your results based on technology alone.
But – and it’s a big one – prepare yourself to pay a price for these advancements. The camera body often is just one piece of a trilogy to produce outstanding shots. The other two pieces are the lens – and you.
Top 12 Full Frame Cameras
Ranking | Camera | Camera type | MP | Battery | Lenses | Review | Price | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
#1 | Canon EOS 1D X Mark II | DSLR (large) | 20.2MP | 1210 shots | Canon EF | Read Review | See Price on Amazon | |
#2 | Canon EOS 5D Mark IV | DSLR (midsize) | 30.4MP | 900 shots | Canon EF | Read Review | See Price on Amazon | |
#3 | Canon EOS 5DS R | DSLR (midsize) | 50.6 MP | 700 shots | Canon EF | Read Review | See Price on Amazon | |
#4 | Canon EOS 6D Mark III | DSLR (midsize) | 26.2 MP | 1200 shots | Canon EF | Read Review | See Price on Amazon | |
#5 | Leica Q | Large sensor compact | 24.2MP | Not rated | Fixed | Read Review | See Price on Amazon | |
#6 | Nikon D750 | DSLR (midsize) | 24.3MP | 1230 shots | Nikon F | Read Review | See Price on Amazon | |
#7 | Nikon D810 | DSLR (midsize) | 36.3MP | 1200 shots | Nikon F | Read Review | See Price on Amazon | |
#8 | Nikon D850 | DSLR (midsize) | 45.4MP | 1840 shots | Nikon F | Read Review | See Price on Amazon | |
#9 | Pentax K-1 Mark II | DSLR (midsize) | 36.3MP | 670 shots | Pentax KAF4 | Read Review | See Price on Amazon | |
#10 | Sony Alpha A7R III | Mirrorless SLR-style | 42.2MP | 650 shots | Sony E | Read Review | See Price on Amazon | |
#11 | Sony A99 II | DSLR (midsize) | 42.2MP | 490 shots | Sony/Minolta Alpha | Read Review | See Price on Amazon | |
#12 | Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX1R II | Large sensor compact | 42.4MP | 220 shots | Fixed | Read Review | See Price on Amazon |
What is a Full Frame Camera?
The term “full frame” refers to the sensor in the camera body that captures the light (your subject) and converts it into an image. It’s called ‘full frame’ because it is sized, at 36 x 24mm height and width, as a 35mm negative would be. Bigger is automatically better, right?
Not necessarily. Digital cameras are now sophisticated instruments we need skills to play well.
Having a larger sensor by itself is not a guarantee of a better shot, because we can adjust ISO (the sensitivity of the sensor to light, which is also a term we use for film speed), the width of the aperture (the hole through which light travels), and the shutter speed (how long the shutter is open).
That’s a lot of settings to think about, even before you throw the size of the sensor into the mix. Here’s what you should know before you consider selecting a full frame camera.
Is a 35mm film camera a full frame camera?
Nope, it is not. Film cameras that use 35mm are called ‘small format’, to set them apart from medium and large format film. Cameras that utilize film are a whole different realm with their own language, one we won’t get into here.
The term full frame only came into use with the advent of digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) cameras. Interestingly, early digital cameras had smaller than full format sensors too. They were less expensive and easier to manufacture, making them a great choice for early brand adopters.
Are mirrorless cameras also full frame?
Like DSLRs, it depends. Some mirrorless cameras have a 35mm-size sensor, making them a full frame camera. Others have smaller sensors, putting them in one of the other camera categories.
You will sometimes see people saying mirrorless cameras aren’t ‘true’ full frame as well – but they’re wrong. If the sensor size is 36 x 24mm, it’s full frame, regardless of whether it has a mirror or not. You’ll also see the term DSLR-like to describe mirrorless full frame cameras.
What does the sensor do?
We know the sensor gathers the light coming through the lens, and we can assume the more light, the better quality of our resulting image. But here’s where it gets sticky. Because all features of a camera (including the lens) work together to produce the image, balancing the right sensor size with the rest of a camera’s functions is as important as sensor size alone.
The first point-and-shoot or DSLR camera many of us purchased had sensors known as APS-C or Four-thirds. These are both smaller in size than full frame. Yet, they are used in the majority of camera designs and they produce awesome shots.
The truth is, the sensor size by itself doesn’t mean you’ll get quality shots. Other factors, such as the effective megapixels resolution of the sensor, flexibility in selecting settings, and quality of your lens matter just as much. Size is just the first step in your selection.
Why does sensor size matter?
Simply put, a full frame sensor is two and a half times larger in surface area than the next size down, APS-H or -C. They are the most expensive part of a camera to manufacture, which means when you price a full frame body, you’ll see a significant increase in price, as in thousands of dollars instead of hundreds for smaller formats.
But since they are the critical interface between the lens and capturing the image, it’s worthwhile to be willing to spend a little more.
By itself, however, the sensor’s size won’t mean you capture more light, or more detail, no matter how much you play with the body’s sophisticated settings. Light is controlled by the aperture in the lens. Depth of field and distance effects come from the focal length, and the detail comes from megapixels in how its captured.
How does the sensor size change the lens?
The sensor size doesn’t so much change the lens as it changes its effective focal length. Focal lengths on lenses are labeled based on how they would work with 35mm film. Because of that, they are also true in length for full frame cameras.
By way of example, a ‘nifty-fifty’, considered the sweet spot for prime lenses, is an effective 50mm on a full frame camera. Put this on an APS-C Canon body, and the effective focal length is 80mm, or 1.6x the 50mm focal length. Luckily, you won’t need to worry about making any conversions on your lens focal lengths if you shoot on a full frame body.
Are more megapixels better?
Megapixels are the points on the sensor that receive the light, each as a unique electronic byte of the image. Mega equates to million, so a 12MP camera has 12,000,000 pixels. To determine the megapixels, multiple the length times width of your sensor and divide by one million.
More MPs means greater detail in your image. If you’re primarily viewing your images on a computer, television or phone screen, you won’t notice the difference between a 12MP and a 24MP.
When you print them out, though, the difference in high MP shots will be evident. The larger the size you plan to use for prints, the better off you’ll be with more megapixels.
Don’t all the pros use full frame cameras?
While it is true most professionals have full frame cameras in their gear bags, it’s probably not all they have. Review the winners of photo contests or the specs on important shots by photojournalists, and you’ll find a solid representation of APS-C and other crop sensors. It’s a testament to ease of use, portability, and price.
If you’re shooting in a rainforest, you’ll want a camera body and lens combo that stands up to the wet conditions. Photography in a war zone requires something sturdy and reliable that the user won’t weep over if they have to leave it behind. The images on their memory card are another story.
What lenses does this body use?
Your full frame DSLR or mirrorless camera comes with interchangeable lenses. These are critical to the success of your shots, and if you have favorite focal lengths, or preferences in terms of apertures, you’ll want to make sure comparable lenses are available for your new body. Large format compact cameras have fixed lenses, but they also have full frames.
Many of us have already made investments in additional lenses if we’ve been shooting for a while. If you have lenses you love in your gear, consider if the mount will allow it to be used on your potential full frame purchase. Sometimes the answer will be no, which is important to consider if that means you’re investing in a lot of optics along with your new body.
How will you use your full frame camera?
Not all full frame cameras share the same features, so to maximize the benefits you’ll get from your model, think about how you plan to use it. If you’re planning to buy now and think about uses later, you’ll want as many protective features as possible. Those include weather sealing and image stabilization, for example, if you’re doing a lot of outdoors handheld work.
If you’re already clear that you want to create art and plan to share your photos with the world, consider where you’ll be usually be taking those shots. Candid interior work might mean you want a built-in flash. Having a touch screen to chance settings on the fly is great for action pictures.
Are you ready to grow into the features of a full frame camera?
A lot of the decisions you’re going to make about your full frame are based on personal preference. If you have a hard time squinting into a viewfinder, you’ll want to consider bodies that have either display LCDs or adjustable viewfinders. Small hands or large ones need to feel comfortable wrapped around the body too.
If you haven’t yet taken a basic photography course, think about doing that before you buy the full frame body. That’s not to disparage learning through using. There are so many advanced settings and capabilities on full frame bodies, it would be a shame not to know how to use them – and the ones you fall in love with as you’re learning are the ones you want to make sure you have.
If you’re still uncertain about what full frame body to buy, consider renting one to become familiar with its feel and features. It’s a lot better to make an informed decision, like perusing our comparative list, as a start. But nothing beats having the camera in your hand and firing off a couple of hundred shots.
Criteria to Consider When Selecting a Full Frame Body
When it comes to camera bodies, the core of many of our buying decisions comes down to personal preference and brand loyalty. The big debate over who is better, Nikon or Canon, will never be decided. Meanwhile, there are other options, like the camera so many of us ooh and ahh over, Leica.
Other brands that remain competitive in full frame like Sony and Pentax have followers too. Again, ask yourself how you plan to use the camera and how much you’ll need to invest in lenses and accessories. If you’ve thought ahead and purchased gear that will work on your full frame as well as your crop sensor body, you’re ahead of the upgrade game.
What criteria should you use to select your full frame camera? We’ve developed this comparative list based on what reviewers say. Here are the criteria we used to develop our list of the 12 best full frame cameras.
Camera type
We talked before about DSLR cameras and mirrorless cameras. Some people like mirrorless better because it’s usually quieter (no mirror clicking out of the way of the sensor). There are full frame compact cameras to think about, too.
Megapixels
As we’ve already noted, more is better, but sometimes, it’s a case of diminishing returns to buy even more pixel quality. If you’re primarily viewing your shots online or virtually, you can afford to buy a lower MP than if you’re printing out your shots in larger formats. More MPs equates to larger digital file size for those images too.
ISO range
ISO is the sensitivity of your camera to light, corresponding to the ISO rating on 35mm film. The lower the number, the lower the sensitivity. If you regularly shoot in low light conditions, you’ll want a camera with the ability to reach high into the ISO range.
Viewfinder type
There are two primary types of viewfinders: optical and electronic; both have Through The Lens (TTL) technology. This means what you see in the viewfinder is the image you’ll capture. On DSLRs, some have a choice of viewing the image you plan to shoot either through the viewfinder, or on the LCD screen on the back. There is no generally accepted opinion about which type of viewfinder is best.
Touch screen
If you like to change your settings with the touch of a finger on the LCD screen, you might become frustrated with a full frame relying the knobs and buttons on the body. On the other hand, being able to adjust all your settings in one place can be an advantage if you like to fine tune each shot and have the time to do it. This is personal preference based on how you like to use your camera.
Battery life
The electronics in your full frame camera run on batteries. Most are rechargeable, but not readily available in the standard battery aisle of a store. If your camera features or shooting style use a lot of juice (like video), you’ll want to know how important it is to buy an extra when you order the body. The average battery life of cameras in the DSLR class is 876 shots.
Flash
Some full frame bodies come with built-in flashes, which are nice for close to the camera lighting, but not as effective if your subject is at a distance. All come with a hot shoe to connect a larger flash gun. Many also have the ability to plug in even more lighting when the need arises.
Image stabilization
Image stabilization (IS) is the adjustment the body makes to combat camera shake which then results in blurred photos. It can be in the body, in the lens, or both. Consider if you’d like to rely on lenses for this, because not all lenses come with IS.
Videography
This is a feature regularly included on full frame bodies. However, some cameras are recommended for this, and others are not, primarily based on the max speed and resolution. The highest available at this time is 4K Ultra HD resolution; 1920 x 1080 is the equivalent of 2K video.
Weather sealing
If your camera will regularly be exposed to dusty conditions or moisture, you’ll want something with weather sealing. This does not mean you can dunk it in the lake, but under normal shooting conditions, a little rain won’t hurt it. Generally, weather sealed bodies are heavier but more durable overall.
Lens mount
The mounting ring is where the lens connects to the camera, and through this portal, all instructions lens-to-body and body-to-lens must pass. If things don’t line up exactly right, a message goes missing, and that can make the difference between a great shot and one you’ll be deleting immediately. Knowing the mount type means you’ll select the correct lenses to go with your body.
Native lenses
Native lenses are made by the same company as your camera body. The advantage is that they are made for each other, and you have the assurance they will work (if you select the right lens mount). We note how many native lenses are generally available for your body choice. Note: There are also additional third party which are often just as good (or better in some cases) but you have no guarantee things work right without calibration or other adjustments.
Weight
Features weigh something, most often in your hand as well as your wallet. Keep in mind that the weights we provide are body only, so you’ll be adding the lenses to this. Often there are other accessories, like battery grips to extend usable life, that are not included in our number either. The average weight for cameras in this class is 1.7 lbs.
Here is our completely opinionated list of the dozen best full frame cameras. To avoid seeming biased toward any brand, we’ve listed them in alphabetical order.
#1. Canon EOS 1D X Mark II
- Camera type: DSLR (large)
- Megapixels: 20.2MP
- ISO range: 100-51200 (expands to 50-409600)
- Viewfinder type: Optical (pentaprism)
- Touch screen: Yes
- Battery life: 1,210 shots
- Flash: Flash shoe only
- Image stabilization: No
- Videography: 4K
- Weather sealing: Yes
- Lens mount: Canon EF
- Native lenses: Over 250
- Weight: 3.37 lbs.
Reviewers’ Likes:
There’s a reason Canon ranks #1 among professional photographers around the world, and this flagship body is just one of them. It’s great for all around shooting and excels in photography for action events.
Its high resolution sensor of 20MP, fast shutter speed up to 1/8000th of a second, 16.0 frames per second (fps) continuous shooting speed, and extensive ISO range captures consistently strong images in both fast action and low light conditions.
Another feature reviewers love is its fixed touch screen LCD on the body’s rear face, allowing you to change your settings on the fly without engaging buttons and knobs – unless you want to.
It includes three types of autofocusing – Contrast Detection, Phase Detection, and Face Detection – and 61 AF points, so all bases are covered to make your framing and focusing easier. The full view viewfinder helps you see 100% of the image you’re shooting.
Video is made easy with 4K resolution, continuous autofocusing, and built-in mono microphone and speaker. You also have the option of using a plug-in mic and headphone to upgrade your shooting. A long battery life – almost twice as many shots as the average – means engaging video will not use up too much juice.
Considerations:
With so many good things in one package, it’s easy to think there aren’t any issues. But there are, beginning with the larger size of the body, and its weight (twice as heavy as the average in its camera class). Since it does not have image stabilization (IS), handheld shooting might be a problem, depending on your skill set.
The other major consideration is that the body is not cheap. It begs to be paired with higher end lenses, though it produces great quality results with almost any glass in the EF series. Be wary of shortchanging yourself with third party low-price lenses, since those may not allow you to realize the camera’s full range and potential.
#2. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
- Camera type: DSLR (midsize)
- Megapixels: 30.4MP
- ISO range: 100-25600 (expands to 50-102400)
- Viewfinder type: Optical (pentaprism)
- Touch screen: Yes
- Battery life: 900 shots
- Flash: Flash shoe only
- Image stabilization: No
- Videography: 4K
- Weather sealing: Yes
- Lens mount: Canon EF
- Native lenses: Over 250 lenses for the 5d Mark IV
- Weight: 1.96 lbs.
Reviewers’ Likes:
The 5D IV is the latest in a long series of semi-pro cameras that includes many of the same benefits of the previous pro listing, and then some. While its fast shutter speed up to 1/8000th of a second still shines, under continuous shooting, expect only 7 frames per second. The higher resolution sensor, 30MP, produces sharp images that tend more toward pro-level quality.
This camera comes with three AF modes – Contrast Detection, Phase Detection, and Face Detection – and 61 focus points for flexibility in framing your shot. Make your adjustments to settings with the touch of a finger on the fixed touch screen LCD, rated as one of the sharpest in the class. Viewfinder coverage is 100%, so you won’t miss the nuances at the edges of your images.
In addition to 4K video with built-in microphone and speaker, the 5D IV features a 4K photo mode. This allows you to capture 8MP photos from your videos for post production editing as a still image. Built-in wireless connectivity makes file transfers to your computer or tablet a breeze.
Considerations:
Reviewers hold the lack of IS, the weight, and the size of this body as negatives. Some see the 4K video as lacking versatility in its shooting options. The cost of the body also can’t be overlooked, and coupled with good quality lenses, the investment is something to consider.
Even adding all of this into the equation, the 5D IV is a solid contender for all types of shooting situations, with its best grades awarded for sports and fast action work. No surprises await you with this model, except the good kind. This latest generation is packed with improvements and will be a go-to body in your gear bag for years to come.
#3. Canon EOS 5DS R
- Camera type: DSLR (midsize)
- Megapixels: 50.6MP
- ISO range: 100-6400 (expands to 12800)
- Viewfinder type: Optical (pentaprism)
- Touch screen: No
- Battery life: 700 shots
- Flash: Flash shoe only
- Image stabilization: No
- Videography: 1920 x 1080
- Weather sealing: Yes
- Lens mount: Canon EF
- Native lenses: Over 250
- Weight: 2.05 lbs.
Reviewers’ Likes:
This could also be a review of the 5DS, because the two semi-pro cameras are identical in all ways but one. The 5DS has an anti-aliasing filter, which can produce moiré or blurring at the edges of repetitive line patterns. The 5DS R has a second self-cancelling filter that realigns the waviness so that you achieve razor-sharp boundaries on those lines in your images.
This body comes with an amazing 51MP of sensor resolution, the highest available in a DSLR. This gives your stills the crisp, clean quality you won’t find from competitors, including others in the Canon line. The high resolution makes this an excellent choice for landscapes and portraits where fine details are important.
Some reviewers comment that the 5DS R looked like previous versions of the 5D models, but the changes and vast improvements are on par with those seen in the inside where you can’t readily notice them. Upgrades included many of the same seen in the 1DX II and the 5D IV earlier on our list, including the AF system, large LCD screen, and 100% coverage viewfinder. It has better handheld ergonomics, making it easier to use than heavier and bulkier Canons.
Considerations:
The biggest complaint about this camera is the potential for too much noise in images because of the smaller size of individual pixels crowded together on the high resolution sensor. That 51MP produces another set of issues, as file sizes are much larger than what you will find from other cameras. Video is lower resolution, which is interpreted by reviewers as Canon’s way of making this body all about still imaging.
Other users note the lack of a touch screen to adjust settings as something that will slow down your shooting. On the other hand, if you’re doing studio-type portrait work or landscape photography, chances are you will want to take that time. Couple that with weather sealing that’s rated slightly better than other Canon models, and you have a camera ready to explore the great outdoors or work in challenging environmental conditions.
#4. Canon EOS 6D Mark III
- Camera type: DSLR (midsize)
- Megapixels: 26.2MP
- ISO range: 100-40000 (expands to 50-102400)
- Viewfinder type: Optical (pentaprism)
- Touch screen: Yes
- Battery life: 1,200 shots
- Flash: Flash shoe only
- Image stabilization: No
- Videography: 1920 x 1080
- Weather sealing: Yes
- Lens mount: Canon EF
- Native lenses: Over 250 lenses for Canon 6D
- Weight: 1.69 lbs.
Reviewers’ Likes:
This is our most affordable full frame suggestion in the Canon line. It’s also the lightest and perhaps the most versatile. It finds its home in sports and portrait work, though it is rated as a good option for any kind of shooting situations.
As a semi-pro body, the 6D III has a lot going for it as a still shooting choice and then some. Think full AF options and manual fine-tuning, and add on an articulating screen, making shooting on a travel tripod or under weird angled conditions easier. That means it’s selfie-friendly and has Wi-Fi connectivity for a great travel option.
While its video resolution isn’t the highest, it offers digital video stabilization, meaning it will work well for handheld video work, like street photography or action events. Battery life is longer than the average in its class. Weight is average for its class, while its ergonomics make it easy to handle according to users.
Considerations:
The biggest issue reviewers state about this camera is the lack of image stabilization. A limited number of users have complained about its low light performance and the lack of a truly dynamic ISO range. Also on the wish list – having 4K video and more focus points would be nice.
This remains a solid daily life camera that won’t break the bank if something happens to it. It’s more of a ‘fun times’ body than its more serious siblings. It’s a good choice for working photogs too, as it covers everything from weddings to sports very well.
#5. Leica Q
- Camera type: Large sensor compact
- Megapixels: 24.2MP
- ISO range: 100-50000
- Viewfinder type: Electronic 3680 dots
- Touch screen: Yes
- Battery life: Not rated
- Flash: Flash shoe only
- Image stabilization: Yes
- Videography: 1920 x 1080
- Weather sealing: No
- Lens mount: Fixed
- Native lenses: 28mm f/1.7 prime
- Weight: 1.41 lbs.
Reviewers’ Likes:
Yes, it’s not a DSLR or even SLR-like – it’s a compact with a fixed wide angle lens. Want a full frame camera you can shoot unobtrusively? While it might be considered large and heavy by compact standards, when you compare it to the other cameras on our list, the benefits are clear.
The 1/16000th of a second shutter speed is faster than anything else on our list. At 10.0 frames per second continuous shooting, it’s as fast or faster than at least half the DSLRs. The f/1.7 lens is fast, and with image stabilization, it performs well in slow shutter speeds and low light work as well.
The fixed touch screen LCD is a surprise since it is the same size you’ll find on many midsize DSLRs. In addition to using the touch screen to change your settings, you can use your smartphone via a wireless remote control app. All of its Leica build and performance goes into creating superb images without the gear-hauling issues of others on this list.
Considerations:
When you buy a compact, you give up a few perks, like interchangeable lenses, advanced AF modes, and weather sealing. Video is only 2K, which many people find adequate. Unlike other cameras on this list, the Q is not the best for sports/action shots or landscapes.
Call us crazy, but we think about spies and espionage when we look at the Q. You have the good resolution of your above-average DSLR with the portability of a compact. While it’s not slip-into-your-pocket size, it’s full frame in a class different from the rest.
#6. Nikon D750
- Camera type: DSLR (midsize)
- Megapixels: 24.3MP
- ISO range: 100-12800 (expands to 50-51200)
- Viewfinder type: Optical (pentaprism)
- Touch screen: No
- Battery life: 1,230 shots
- Flash: Flash shoe only
- Image stabilization: No
- Videography: 1920 x 1080
- Weather sealing: Yes
- Lens mount: Nikon F
- Native lenses: Over 275 lenses for the D750
- Weight: 1.85 lbs.
Reviewers’ Likes:
This semi-pro camera is seen as a direct competitor to the Canon 6D Mark III listed above. Reviewers like its ergonomics and handling, though some feel the body is a bit heavy. With 51 focus points, it offers Contrast Detection, Phase Detection and Face Detection AF.
While the video isn’t the highest resolution available, it is deemed adequate in most shooting situations. Having an in-body stereo microphone sets it apart from many competitors. Its tilting LCD rear screen is voted tops in the class.
Notably, this camera is rated well for portrait and sports work, as are many in the full frame category. The above average battery life and good low light performance makes it a choice DSLR for travel or events. Options for various methods of wireless image transfer make moving your storage from your cards to your computer a breeze.
Considerations:
Users really miss the touch screen on this camera, and also mention the lack of IS as a negative. Others note that AF is slow during live viewing. The fastest shutter speed is limited to 1/4000th of a second.
This body is intended to bring the serious enthusiast closer to a long term commitment to the Nikon family. Since lenses are easily compatible across many Nikon bodies, that’s a plus, too. Don’t skimp on those, since they make or break this camera’s otherwise solid performance.
#7. Nikon D810
- Camera type: DSLR (midsize)
- Megapixels: 36.3MP
- ISO range: 64-12800 (expands to 32-51200)
- Viewfinder type: Optical (pentaprism)
- Touch screen: No
- Battery life: 1,200 shots
- Flash: Built in plus flash shoe
- Image stabilization: No
- Videography: 1920 x 1080
- Weather sealing: Yes
- Lens mount: Nikon F
- Native lenses: Over 275
- Weight: 2.16 lbs.
Reviewers’ Likes:
While this is a little older semi-pro body in the Nikon line, it’s still a contender for the full frame best-of list. One feature that sets it apart is the lack of an anti-aliasing filter, so images contain better details. The high pixel count on its sensor area also aids that quality.
There is an option to save files as uncompressed RAW format, which reduces file size. The AF system includes both Phase Detection and Face Detection, with 51 focus points. The design of the sensor is new and reduces noise issues seen in previous models.
Reviewers rate this camera as good in low light situations, and the fastest shutter speed of 1/8000th of a second make it great for fast paced action work too. Checking your results is easier with a larger than class average fixed LCD screen. This is the only camera on our list with a built-in flash.
Considerations:
While having a high pixel count is great, the resulting file size per image also becomes substantial, which will chew through your memory card more quickly. The negative side of a lack of anti-aliasing filter means moiré has proven to be a greater problem. The lack of a touch screen makes changing settings something that might not be as easy or intuitive as other cameras on this list.
Despite being replaced by the Nikon D850, the D810 still has a lot of offer and at a more affordable price. Lenses will work across both bodies. If your shooting style means you don’t always have a chance to enough time framing a shot to make it perfect, this camera gives you the leeway you need to create high quality results.
#8. Nikon D850
- Camera type: DSLR (midsize)
- Megapixels: 45.4MP
- ISO range: 64-25600 (expands to 32-102400)
- Viewfinder type: Optical (pentaprism)
- Touch screen: Yes
- Battery life: 1,840 shots
- Flash: Flash shoe only
- Image stabilization: No
- Videography: 4K
- Weather sealing: Yes
- Lens mount: Nikon F
- Native lenses: Over 275 lenses for the D850
- Weight: 2.24 lbs.
Reviewers’ Likes:
If the D810 didn’t tick enough boxes for you, the semi-pro D850 will pick up the slack. The upgrade to 4K videography helps many a photog looking for a multi-purpose tool. It also has illuminated buttons for working at night or in other low light conditions.
The 46MP sensor resolution and lack of an anti-aliasing filter produces sharp detail and crisp edges in your images. In addition to Contrast Detection, Phase Detection and Face Detection, the D850 AF system has an amazing 153 focus points, of which 99 are cross-type. These lock on and focus faster than single type sensors producing greater focusing accuracy.
A high-def tilting touch screen LCD makes changing your settings easy and fast. At 1,840 shots, the battery life is the longest in this class of camera. It is rated as excellent for all types of shooting situations except those requiring you to be carrying around a heavy body by hand most of the time.
Considerations:
The D850 isn’t a light weight camera. It also lacks image stabilization, so you’ll want to consider a tripod for situations where you’re shooting for a long time and need to control the potential camera shake. That lack of anti-aliasing filter means you’ll want to guard against moiré in shots with repetitive patterns.
This is truly the top of the Nikon line when it comes to midsized DSLRs and has a price tag to match. While some might argue that the post production connectivity doesn’t work as well as it could, that isn’t so much the camera as the SnapBridge transfer software. Some reviewers go so far as to declare this the best all around camera they ever tested.
#9. Pentax K-1 Mark II
- Camera type: DSLR (midsize)
- Megapixels: 36.3MP
- ISO range: 100-819200
- Viewfinder type: Optical (pentaprism)
- Touch screen: No
- Battery life: 670 shots
- Flash: Flash shoe only
- Image stabilization: Yes
- Videography: 1920 x 1800
- Weather sealing: Yes
- Lens mount: Pentax KAF4
- Native lenses: Over 140
- Weight: 2.23 lbs.
Reviewers’ Likes:
This second generation Pentax body adds even more image quality to the already terrific features of the original K-1. Ricoh, the manufacturer of Pentax, is continuing the tradition of building features and flexibility into their products. The semi-pro K-1 II makes the lists of seasoned reviewers as well as hobby camera enthusiasts.
What sets this camera apart is its excellent image quality. It lacks an anti-aliasing filter, sharpening already great details in images, while avoiding moiré (blurring of repetitive patterns). Its extended ISO range coupled with its super-fast 1/8000th of a second fastest shutter speed brings more light and greater resolution into even the most challenging low light situations.
Other pluses include its advanced image stabilization system, taking care of IS even when lenses don’t. As for lenses, the extensive Pentax K range means there is something for every type of shooting style. The articulating LCD screen makes viewing your results while you’re shooting a breeze.
Considerations:
The K-1 II is heavier than competitive DSLRs, and its body is also thicker. Also, if you like using a touch screen for your settings, this camera doesn’t have one. Video quality falls in the middle of the road and hasn’t impressed reviewers.
Despite these issues, the camera is excellent for shooting just about anything you want. If the wide ISO range doesn’t matter as much in your preferences, consider the Pentax K-1, its predecessor, as an alternative. The earlier model’s features and benefits are otherwise on par with this upgrade.
#10. Sony Alpha A7R III
- Camera type: Mirrorless SLR-style
- Megapixels: 42.2MP
- ISO range: 100-32000 (expands to 50-102400)
- Viewfinder type: Electronic 3686k dots
- Touch screen: Yes
- Battery life: 650 shots
- Flash: Flash shoe only
- Image stabilization: Yes
- Videography: 4K
- Weather sealing: Yes
- Lens mount: Sony E
- Native lenses: Over 80 lenses for the Sony A7
- Weight: 1.45 lbs.
Reviewers’ Likes:
This mirrorless camera ranks so highly among reviewers, it exceeds DSLRs with much deeper pedigrees. Not only does it perform well over the gamut of photo situations, but its growing list of native and third-party lens options makes it even more flexible as time goes by.
Performance and quality exceed almost everyone’s expectations and make this a consistent contender for top-of-the-ranks.
Image quality is enhanced by the lack of an anti-aliasing filter. In addition to the usual AF perks, it offers Eye Tracking AF to enhance portraiture. The image stabilization is unique to Sony and this camera, and out-stabilizes everything else in the full frame class.
Other aspects users love is the tilting touch screen LCD, making setting adjustments easy to accomplish. The continuous shooting max speed is 10.0 frames per second and the max shutter speed is 1/8000th of a second, making it one of the fastest full frames around. The battery shooting life is almost twice as long as the mirrorless average, making it a workhorse when other cameras would quit.
Considerations:
It’s hard to find people saying anything bad about this Sony. Yes, some will whine about the body weight, because the average in mirrorless cameras is about half of the A7R III, but compared to full frame DSLRs, it’s feather-light. Others wish the battery life was longer, more along the life of DSLRs, but it is an electric system, after all.
It’s safe to say this camera surprised a lot of people when it was first released, and it continues to convert users with its high performance and consistent quality. You pay for that level of perfection, but you’ll probably never let this camera go, either. There is no shooting situation it can’t handle, from stills to video, and it will leave you looking like a super-photog in the process.
#11. Sony A99 II
- Camera type: DSLR (midsize)
- Megapixels: 42.2MP
- ISO range: 100-25600 (expands to 50-102400)
- Viewfinder type: Electronic 2359k dots
- Touch screen: No
- Battery life: 490 shots
- Flash: Flash shoe only
- Image stabilization: Yes
- Videography: 4K
- Weather sealing: Yes
- Lens mount: Sony/Minolta Alpha
- Native lenses: Over 140
- Weight: 1.87 lbs.
Reviewers’ Likes:
Here’s another semi-pro camera set to astound you, particularly if you like to shoot panoramas. Couple that with the ability to shoot time lapse series with a downloadable app, and you have a full frame that extends possible uses into new territory. The fully articulating LCD screen makes selfie and group shots fun, too.
The unique image stabilization makes this Sony, like the A7R III, the frontrunner in the fight against blurring from camera shake. The high resolution of the electronic viewfinder ensures what you see is what will be captured in your file.
The addition of Eye Tracking to the other AF modes means portraits and other people shots are focused where you want them to be. Did we mention the astounding 399 focus points?
Connectivity for post-production is highly rated. You can connect to a computer or your smartphone wirelessly for file transfers. Add in 4K video, and you have a tool for all conditions.
Considerations:
Since it scores an almost perfect ten on everyone’s scale, there are few issues to raise, other than battery life. A few people called this body ‘large’, though its ergonomics and fit in the hand is great. Price was also an issue, but it’s not as expensive as other cameras in our comparison.
Many things set this Sony apart from the competition, including the fast shooting and shutter speeds. Indoors or out, low light or midday, this seems to be the camera to beat. Pair it with one of Zeiss-built lenses and you’ll have a photography partner you’ll never want to leave.
#12. Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-RX1R II
- Camera type: Large sensor compact
- Megapixels: 42.4MP
- ISO range: 50-25600 (expands to 102400)
- Viewfinder type: Electronic 2359 dots
- Touch screen: No
- Battery life: 220 shots
- Flash: Flash shoe only
- Image stabilization: No
- Videography: 1920 x 1080
- Weather sealing: No
- Lens mount: Fixed
- Native lenses: 35mm f/2.0 prime
- Weight: 1.12 lbs.
Reviewers’ Likes:
Last but not least, here’s another compact to give you options to consider. The RX1R II has many of the same bells and whistles as the DSLRs on this list, including high resolution and good ISO range. It packages this in a lightweight alternative to your bulky DSLRs and mirrorless bodies.
While it does not have an anti-aliasing filter, it combats moiré via a filter simulator that creates the electronic effect of a low pass filter. The 35mm f/2.0 Zeiss lens works fastest at maximum apertures and gives you enough room to play with a variety of shooting environments. Images can be saved in RAW format, making post production adjustments easy.
This camera is probably one of the best choices if you want to carry only one piece of gear and travel lightly – but travel a lot. Autofocusing covers the typical Contrast Detection, Phase Detection and Face Detection. Plus you have manual focusing and manual exposure to extend your capabilities.
Transfer your images wirelessly to your computer or smartphone, and you’ve built a working office on the go with very little gear to carry.
Considerations:
Battery life is a real issue with this camera, since it’s easy to squeeze off 220 shots without thinking. The lack of image stabilization is disappointing, and the lack of a touch screen for adjustments is another negative. The lenses are slow at the wide and tele ends, meaning some of your shooting range is limited.
And yet, despite this, the RX1R II gives you the benefits of amazing image resolution (with the expected large file sizes) for full frame work in a true pocket size. It has a digital zoom which mimics other focal lengths well. While you’re investing in extra batteries, get a few more memory cards, too, so you can store all the beautiful pictures you’re going to take.