The best beginner mirrorless camera 2022 TechRadar Skip to main content TechRadar is supported by its audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here's why you can trust us. The best beginner mirrorless camera 2022 budget stars for new photographers By Mark Wilson Contributions from Chris Rowlands last updated 15 September 2022 The best beginner mirrorless cameras you can buy right now Included in this guide:1CanonEOS R10Check Price (opens in new tab)2FujifilmX-T200Check Price (opens in new tab)3NikonZ5Check Price (opens in new tab)4OlympusPEN E-PL10Check Price (opens in new tab)5OlympusOM-D E-M10 Mark IVCheck Price (opens in new tab)6NikonZ fcCheck Price (opens in new tab)7FujifilmX-T30 IICheck Price (opens in new tab)8FujifilmX-S10Check Price (opens in new tab)9CanonEOS M50 Mark IICheck Price (opens in new tab)10PanasonicLumix GX9Check Price (opens in new tab)11SonyA6100Check Price (opens in new tab)12PanasonicGH5 Mark IICheck Price (opens in new tab)13PanasonicLumix G100Check Price (opens in new tab)14CanonEOS M6 Mark IICheck Price (opens in new tab)15SonyAlpha 6000Check Price (opens in new tab) (Image credit: Future) Editor's note: October 2022After something of a lull for beginner and mid-range mirrorless cameras, we've finally started to see some interesting new models arrive this year – with the promise of more to come, if new rumors are to be believed. Recently, we've seen our new number one choice, the Canon EOS R10, arrive alongside the vlogger-friendly Nikon Z30. These cameras both have APS-C sensors, which is a typical size for beginner cameras. But it seems the likes of Canon could be releasing relatively affordable full-frame models next. The reliable Canon Rumors (opens in new tab) says that Canon is working on a replacement for its original Canon EOS R, which could sit below the Canon EOS R6. And while an EOS R successor would likely be a bit too advanced to be classed as a 'beginner' cameras, it seems the Nikon Z5 (see below) could be getting some fresh competition soon. Mark Wilson, Cameras Editor The best beginner mirrorless cameras prove you don't need pro tools to capture great images. Whatever your skill level, these entry-level models make photography accessible for everyone. But don't go thinking they'll hold you back: the top options offer all the features and performance to improve your photo-taking abilities. You can't try every beginner mirrorless camera before you buy. That's why we've put in the effort on your behalf, clocking countless hours of testing the best mirrorless cameras in a range of real-world scenarios. Our expert team has carefully ranked the results of these trials below, to help you find exactly the right camera for your needs and budget. Right now, we think the best beginner mirrorless camera for beginners overall is the Canon EOS R10. A lightweight camera with a 'mini DSLR' design, its key skill are some impressive, subject-detecting autofocus powers that let you focus on your composition. It also packs in decent burst speeds that are more than quick enough to snag shots of speeding pets or kids. Because it's relatively new, the EOS R10 isn't the cheapest mirrorless camera for beginners. So if your budget is a little tighter, we readily recommend the Olympus PEN E-PL10. A Micro Four Thirds model with beginner-friendly creative shooting modes, its in-body image stabilization lets you shoot colorful stills handheld. Whatever your expectations, this buying guide is designed to help you find the best beginner mirrorless camera to advance your photography. As well as reviewing a range of entry-level mirrorless models, we've also suggested some tips to consider when browsing for a starter camera. And if it's a great deal you're looking for, our price comparison tool will show you the top offers. The best beginner mirrorless camera 2022   (Image credit: Future) 1 Canon EOS R10 The best beginner mirrorless camera overall SpecificationsSensor size: APS-C CMOS**Resolution: 24.2MPViewfinder: EVF OLED, 2,360,000 dotsMonitor: 2.95-inch articulating touchscreen, 1,040,000 dotsMaximum continuous shooting rate: 15fpsMovies: 4KUser level: BeginnerspecificationsColourBlackConditionNewToday's Best DealsView at Amazon (opens in new tab)View at Crutchfield (opens in new tab)View at Best Buy (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Compact and lightweight+Modern autofocus abilities Reasons to avoid-No in-body image stabilization-Crop on 4K/60p footage Striking a great balance between accessibility and performance, the Canon EOS R10 is a fantastic entry-level camera to learn and improve with. Compact yet comfy in the hand, its dual control dials and dedicated AF joystick made it easy to try different techniques in testing. The articulating touchscreen also feels like a natural switch from smartphone shooting. Its 24.2MP sensor isn't cutting-edge, but modern autofocus skills and Canon's punchy Digic X processor make it an adaptable camera to grow into. During our tests, AF tracking proved both intuitive and impressively reliable for a beginner camera. Burst shooting rates of 15fps also make it a good choice if you want to try action photography. Handheld options are limited after dark by the absence of in-body image stabilization, but the EOS R10 otherwise holds up well against APS-C rivals, producing clean, detailed stills with pleasant colors. Its video skills give it some hybrid versatility, too. While there's no flat color profile, it can record uncropped 4K/30p footage by oversampling from the sensor's 6K resolution. All that's really missing is a wide choice of native lenses, a situation that should hopefully improve soon.Read our in-depth Canon EOS R10 review (Image credit: TechRadar) 2 Fujifilm X-T200 The best budget beginner mirrorless camera SpecificationsSensor size: APS-C CMOSResolution: 24.2MPViewfinder: EVF OLED, 2,360,000 dotsMonitor: 3.5-inch fully articulating touchscreen, 2,780,000 dotsMaximum continuous shooting rate: 8fpsMovies: 4KUser level: BeginnerToday's Best DealsCheck Amazon (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Excellent color and dynamic range+Sharp 3.5-inch rear touchscreen+Sleek and lightweight retro design Reasons to avoid-No subject tracking in video-Low buffer depth A pared-back version of the Fujifilm X-T30, the X-T200 makes for a much better entry-level camera than its predecessor. In fact, it's better than the X-T100 in almost every way: it has more processing power, a substantially improved autofocus system and a larger, sharper 3.5-inch rear touchscreen. It's also much nicer to hold while retaining that attractive and distinctive retro DSLR styling. Essentially a Fujifilm X-A7 (see below) with a viewfinder, we found that it's actually easier to use the X-T200's screen for framing and focusing thanks to an awkwardly placed joystick. The only other downsides are that subject tracking is a bit hit and miss during continuous shooting and isn't available for video. The considerable plus sides, though, include outstanding image quality and an easy-to-use setup that is ideal for new photographers. As it's been out for a while, the X-T30 is now more affordable and offers specs that novices can grow into – but if you want Fujifilm's best mirrorless camera for beginners, look no further.Read our in-depth Fujifilm X-T200 review (Image credit: Future) 3 Nikon Z5 The best premium beginner mirrorless camera SpecificationsSensor size: Full-frame CMOSResolution: 24.5MPViewfinder: EVF, 3,600,000 dotsMonitor: 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen, 1,040,000 dotsMaximum continuous shooting rate: 4.5fpsMovies: 4KUser level: Beginner/IntermediateToday's Best DealsView at Walmart (opens in new tab)View at BHPhoto (opens in new tab)View at Best Buy (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Great viewfinder+Very capable AF system Reasons to avoid-Heavy crop on 4K video-Expensive for this class This compact full-frame camera is arguably the best entry-level mirrorless camera Nikon has yet produced. Its a full-featured snapper for the beginner or hobbyist, with excellent image quality, a great design for ease of use and one that's capable of handling several different subjects without any hiccups. Sure, its burst rate of 4.5fps doesn't stack up against some of the competition and its 4K video suffers from a significant crop, but despite that we can't recommend the Z5 highly enough for anyone looking to start their photography journey or just looking for a really capable camera that's an excellent all-rounder. We love its very capable autofocus system, which comes with a fast and intuitive Eye AF on for those beautiful portraits you'd like to shoot. There are some high-end features as well like it's super high-res viewfinder and touch, weather-sealed body. And, while it looks similar to the Z6 and Z7 bodies, it comes with a 24-50mm kit lens that's designed to retract when not in use, making it a great walkaround or travel camera. The only reason we've got this Nikon lower down our list is the price tag – it's expensive when compared to some of the other entry-level cameras out there, full frame or otherwise.Read our in-depth Nikon Z5 review (Image credit: Future) 4 Olympus PEN E-PL10 The best budget beginner mirrorless camera SpecificationsSensor size: Micro Four ThirdsResolution: 16.1MPViewfinder: N/AMonitor: 3.0-inch tilting touchscreen, 1,040,000 dotsMaximum continuous shooting rate: 8.6fpsMovies: 4KUser level: BeginnerspecificationsColourBlackConditionNewToday's Best DealsView at Adorama (opens in new tab)View at Amazon (opens in new tab)View at Walmart (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Beginner-friendly creative modes+In-body image stabilization+Lovely JPEG colour rendition Reasons to avoid-No viewfinder-Dated sensor-Limited dynamic range An excellent yet affordable mirrorless camera for beginners, the PEN E-PL10 combines a range of novice-friendly modes with a stylish shell to create a competent camera that's perfect for smartphone upgraders. The polycarbonate shell is a treat to hold, while the tilting touchscreen makes selfies a cinch. While we didn't find its 16.1MP sensor particularly game-changing, the PEN E-PL10 still produces JPEGs with lovely color rendition. Add 4K to the mix, as well as in-body image stabilization and the option to edit RAW images in-camera, and you've got a strong package for mirrorless first-timers – provided they don't need a viewfinder. It's worth mentioning that you can get many of the same features on the older, more affordable but equally as chic E-PL9. The main difference with the E-PL10 are the fine-tuned art filters and Advanced Photo modes, which make it easy to experiment with more advanced creative techniques. If you don't need those, the former is still well worth a look.Read our in-depth Olympus PEN E-PL10 review (Image credit: Future) 5 Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV A compact and powerful stills camera for beginners SpecificationsSensor size: Micro Four ThirdsResolution: 20.3MPViewfinder: EVF OLED, 2,360k dotsMonitor: 3.5-inch fully articulating touchscreen, 1,037k dotsMaximum continuous shooting rate: 8fpsMovies: 4K **User level:** Beginner/enthusiastspecificationsColourBlack, SilverConditionNewToday's Best DealsView at OM SYSTEM (opens in new tab)View at Amazon (opens in new tab)View at Walmart (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Impressive IBIS+Very compact body Reasons to avoid-No microphone input-Specs a step behind Despite its compact size, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV packs in a huge amount of features for stills photographers. With an approachable button layout, a flip-down touchscreen plus Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, its a camera designed first and foremost to tempt smartphone users – but that doesn't mean it under-delivers on image quality. During our tests, its 20.3MP sensor served up beautiful stills, with significantly better dynamic range than a compact or smartphone can offer. That's supported by an outstanding five-axis in-body image stabilization system borrowed from the flagship E-M1 series, which kept things sharp even when we were shooting hand-held or in low-light. The Mark IV can also capture impressive 4K video at 30fps, though the absence of a microphone input will limit its appeal to vloggers. All the same, the Mark IV represents a fantastic gateway for upgraders and enthusiasts, especially as it's compatible with the vast catalogue of Micro Four Thirds lenses available.Read our in-depth Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV review (Image credit: Future) 6 Nikon Z fc A retro beauty with easy, beginner-friendly controls SpecificationsSensor size: APS-CResolution: 20.9MPViewfinder: EVF, 2,360K dotsMonitor: 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen, 1,040K dotsAutofocus: 209-point AFMaximum continuous shooting rate: 11fpsMovies: 4K at 30pUser level: EnthusiastspecificationsColourSilverConditionNew, RefurbishedToday's Best DealsView at Walmart (opens in new tab)View at Crutchfield (opens in new tab)View at Adorama (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Stunning retro design+Vari-angle touchscreen Reasons to avoid-Lack of native lenses-No UHS-II card support It's a close call between the Nikon Z fc and the Nikon Z50 for a place in this list, but think this gloriously retro model just edges it. Both cameras are based on the same photographic engine and fans of DSLR-style deep grips will likely prefer the Z50, but we found the Z fc's style and useful dials to be better for beginners who have just picked up the hobby or are just starting to expand their photography skills. The Z fc is a fine all-rounder thanks to its 20.9MP APS-C sensor and hybrid autofocus system. It can also shoot 4K/30p video and has a vari-angle touchscreen to help you shoot from different angles, including front-on to the camera. The only real downsides we've found here are a lack of weather-sealing and relatively limited collection of native lenses. That said, there are now an increasing number of third-party lenses from the likes of Viltrox, and those physical controls are ideal for anyone who wants to get up to speed with the exposure triangle.Read our in-depth Nikon Z fc review (Image credit: Future) 7 Fujifilm X-T30 II An excellent everyday option for beginners SpecificationsSensor size: APS-CResolution: 26.1MPViewfinder: EVF OLED, 2,360,000 dotsMonitor: 3.0inch tilting touchscreen, 1,620,000 dotsMaximum continuous shooting rate: 8fpsMovies: 4KUser level: Beginner/IntermediatespecificationsStorage Size64GB - 256GBColourBlack, SilverConditionNew, RefurbishedRead more ▼Today's Best DealsView at Amazon (opens in new tab)View at Walmart (opens in new tab)View at Best Buy (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Great styling and handling+Uncropped 4K footage Reasons to avoid-Screen only tilts-No in-body image stabilization Fujifilm's original X-T30 was already an excellent everyday camera. Its successor doesn't dramatically change the recipe. However, we think it does just enough to sweeten the deal. Using an identical chassis to its predecessor, the X-T30 II likewise balances performance with relatively compact proportions. Adopting the same classic retro styling, we felt it was lovely to look at and fantastic to handle. The rear LCD is now sharper, although we still found ourselves wishing for a fully articulating screen, rather than a panel that only tilts. With the same sensor and 425-point AF system as the original X-T30, we found that the second edition similarly captures bags of detail and beautifully rich tones. A new algorithm more accurately tracks moving targets. It's not perfect, but it performed pretty well in testing when subjects moved predictably. Focus point sensitivity has also been improved, and we found that the X-T30 II did a solid job picking out fine details in low lighting. So if you're shopping for the best beginner mirrorless camera, the Fujifilm X-T30 II is a mid-range all-rounder that's well worth considering. But not if you already own the X-T30.Read our in-depth Fujifilm X-T30 II review (Image credit: Future) 8 Fujifilm X-S10 The ultimate mirrorless all-rounder for hobbyists SpecificationsSensor size: APS-C CMOSResolution: 26.1MPViewfinder: EVF OLED, 2,360,000 dotsMonitor: 3.0inch vari-angle touchscreen, 1,040,000 dotsMaximum continuous shooting rate: 8fpsMovies: 4KUser level: IntermediatespecificationsColourBlackConditionNewToday's Best DealsView at Best Buy (opens in new tab)View at Amazon (opens in new tab)View at Walmart (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Large grip and great handling+IBIS in a small package Reasons to avoid-No weather-proofing-Minor control annoyances By borrowing a handful of key features from the flagship X-T4 and shoehorning them into a smaller, cheaper body, Fujifilm has made one of the best mirrorless cameras for beginners. Pairing Fujifilm's proven 26.1MP APS-C sensor with an X Processor 4 and in-body image stabilization, it serves as a proper all-rounder. In testing, stills quality proved identical to the X-T4, while the quality and flexibility of 4K video was up there with the best. The inclusion of IBIS is also a real bonus in such a small camera, giving the X-S10 a genuine edge when shooting handheld. We found the only real weakness to be autofocus performance. It's still impressive in most scenarios, but our testing revealed subject-tracking to be less advanced than the system used on cameras like the Sony A6600. AF aside, the X-S10 takes a more pared-back control approach than most Fujifilm cameras. We felt the absence of a d-pad made it slightly tricky to toggle through menus. That said, we still think the functional layout, generous grip and retro good looks make the X-S10 an accessible and compelling option for hobbyists.Read our in-depth Fujifilm X-S10 review (Image credit: TechRadar) 9 Canon EOS M50 Mark II Canon's most popular entry-level camera with higher-end features SpecificationsSensor size: APS-CResolution: 24.1MPViewfinder: 2,360K dotsMonitor: 3.0-inch articulated touchscreen, 1,040K dotsAutofocus: Dual Pixel CMOS AFMaximum continuous shooting rate: 10fps (Single AF), 7.4fps (Continuous AF)Movies: 4K at 24pUser level: BeginnerspecificationsStorage Size64GBColourBlack, WhiteScreen TypeLEDRead more ▼Today's Best DealsView at Walmart (opens in new tab)View at Amazon (opens in new tab)View at Best Buy (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Neat and compact+Vertical video recording +Eye AF for stills and video Reasons to avoid-Heavily cropped 4K video-Limited native lenses-Better video cameras available The original Canon EOS M50 is one of the most popular entry-level cameras ever made. And while this Mark II version is a very minor update, it remains a great choice for anyone who needs a small, powerful stills camera that's easy to use. Its simple interface is ideal for learners and the excellent Dual pixel AF helpfully locks onto moving subjects with great accuracy and reliability. While Canon's M-series still lacks a lot of native lens options, the bundled EF-M 15-45mm kit lens is fine for everyday snapping and you can adapt older DSLR lenses using an optional adapter. We don't think that the EOS M50 Mark II is a camera for video shooters, mainly its 4K mode incurs a heavy crop. We also wouldn't recommend owners of the EOS M50 to upgrade to this newer model. However, if you're looking for a beginner-friendly mirrorless camera that has more power and creative control than your smartphone, this should be near the top of shortlist – particularly if you already own Canon glass.Read our in-depth Canon EOS M50 Mark II review (Image credit: Future) 10 Panasonic Lumix GX9The best beginner mirrorless camera for travel SpecificationsSensor size: Micro Four ThirdsResolution: 20.3MPViewfinder: EVF, 2,764,800 dotsMonitor: 3-inch tilting touchscreen, 1,240,000 dotsMaximum continuous shooting rate: 9fps/30fpsMovies: 4KUser level: Beginner/intermediatespecificationsColourBlack, SilverConditionNew, RefurbishedToday's Best DealsView at Amazon (opens in new tab)View at BHPhoto (opens in new tab)View at Adorama (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Built-in viewfinder+5-axis dual IS Reasons to avoid-Functional not stylish-Still only 16 megapixels The Lumix GX9 from Panasonic represents excellent value for money. Its small size and weight not only make it ideal for those new to an interchangeable lens camera, but it's also well-suited for travel photography, too. The great feature set includes a built-in viewfinder, plus 5-axis dual image stabilization. It proved to be a very capable entry-level mirrorless camera during our tests as well. It was able to shoot up to 9fps on burst mode and achieve pleasingly sharp shots at 1/8 sec thanks to its image stabilization. One of our favorite features of all Panasonic cameras is the 4K Video and 4K Photo Modes. You can use the latter to extract stills from a movie to in order to freeze the perfect moment. As standard, the GX9 comes with a 12-32mm lens, which is a good optic to get you started with. Further good news is that there are dozens of different lenses available in the Micro Four Thirds mount, so this is a camera you can truly grow with.Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix GX9 review (Image credit: Future) 11 Sony A6100 Sony's popular beginner-friendly model great for moving subjects SpecificationsSensor size: APS-CResolution: 24.2MPViewfinder: EVF, 1,440,000 dotsMonitor: 3-inch tilting, 921,600 dotsMaximum continuous shooting rate: 11fpsMovies: 4KUser level: Beginner/IntermediatespecificationsColourBlackConditionNewToday's Best DealsView at Amazon (opens in new tab)View at Adorama (opens in new tab)View at Best Buy (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Great range of specs+Value for money Reasons to avoid-Fiddly buttons -Small viewfinder -Fairly pricey Sony's A6000 was one of the most popular mirrorless models of the past few years, and while you can still buy it, the brand has refreshed it in the shape of the A6100. That brings a whole set of new features to Sony's entry-level offering, including improved video features which now include 4K. You also now get a touch-sensitive screen and advanced autofocus options which include the very well-performing Eye AF (for both humans and animals). Settling on continuous AF with the 'Tracking: Expand Flexible Spot' focus area during our tests, we actually forgot that it's an entry-level mirrorless camera because of how fast, intuitive, and spot-on its autofocusing is. An extensive range of different lenses are available for Sony's mount, so it's also a system you can be confident when investing in. As it stands, the A6100 is one of the most expensive models on this list – but the good news is that if you're happy with older tech, the A6000 is still very much available, and right now is a veritable bargain.Read our in-depth Sony Alpha A6100 review (Image credit: Future) 12 Panasonic GH5 Mark II The best beginner mirrorless camera for streamers and vloggers SpecificationsType: MirrorlessSensor Size: Micro Four ThirdsResolution: 20.3MPLens: Micro Four-ThirdsViewfinder: 3.68m dotsMonitor: 1.84m-dot articulated screenMaximum continuous shooting speed: 12fpsMovies: 4K at 60fpsUser level: Beginner/intermediateToday's Best DealsView at Walmart (opens in new tab)View at Amazon (opens in new tab)View at Best Buy (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Excellent video quality+Small, light and sturdy+Built-in wireless live streaming Reasons to avoid-Relatively small sensor size-Autofocus isn't the most reliable Most of the cameras in this list are predominantly aimed at photographers, but if your mainly looking for a streaming or vlogging workhorse, then you should definitely consider the GH5 Mark II. It's a unique mirrorless camera with built-in wireless live-streaming powers that have just been boosted to 4K resolution, thanks to a firmware update. So if you're looking for a YouTube or Twitch camera, it's one of the best choices around. Despite being a Micro Four Thirds, we found that it can hold its own pretty well in most situations, including some low light ones. That's likely due to its in-body image stabilization system, which has been slightly improved over that of the GH5, and its large extended ISO range of 100 to 25600. Because it's based on the excellent GH5, the Mark II's video talents are strong – you get the option of recording 10-bit 4:2:2 footage internally or externally to a monitor, plus a wide range of frame-rate options and even anamorphic video resolutions. If you're looking to get into color grading, there's also Panasonic flat V-Log profile that gives you 12 stops of dynamic range. Throw in impressive in-body image stabilization (IBIS) and a weatherproof body, and you have a fine all-rounder for all levels of video shooter.Read our in-depth Panasonic GH5 Mark II review (Image credit: Future) 13 Panasonic Lumix G100 Another excellent entry-level choice for vloggers SpecificationsSensor size: Micro Four ThirdsResolution: 20.3MPViewfinder: EVF, 3,680K dotsMonitor: 3-inch fully articulating touchscreen, 1,840K dotsMaximum continuous shooting rate: 10fpsMovies: 4K/30pUser level: BeginnerspecificationsColourBlackConditionNewToday's Best DealsView at Amazon (opens in new tab)View at Walmart (opens in new tab)View at Best Buy (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Compact design+Relatively affordable Reasons to avoid-Smaller sensor than some rivals-Cropped 4K video If you want an entry-level mirrorless camera to kick-start your content creation, the Panasonic G100 is an excellent choice. The lightweight G100 is the smallest mirrorless camera with a fully articulating screen, making it both versatile and portable for budding videographers. Yet even with the compact shell, it still offers good grip and a decent number of direct access controls. At its heart is a 20.3MP sensor that delivered great color and detail across both stills and video during our tests. Supporting that sensor is the hybrid image stabilization system, designed to counter walking motion to ensure that self-shot footage is smooth and steady – even if a crop on 4K video means you'll need long arms to film yourself. One of the features we love here is the three-mic Ozo Audio setup, which detects the source direction of vocals and prioritizes them over background sounds. It proved to be very effective during our tests, especially when we were narrating from behind the camera. Less impressive is a real-world battery life of 45 minutes, but it's enough for capturing a series of short clips. It might not quite be the perfect package, but the G100 is ideal if you're looking for something small, light and powerful to start your vlogging journey.Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix G100 review (Image credit: Future) 14 Canon EOS M6 Mark II A portable powerhouse with impressive specs for videos SpecificationsSensor size: APS-C CMOSResolution: 32.5MPViewfinder: N/AMonitor: 3.0-inch tilting touchscreen, 1,040K dotsMaximum continuous shooting rate: 14fps / 30fps RAW Burst modeMovies: 4K/30pUser level: BeginnerspecificationsStorage Size16GB - 64GBColourBlack, SilverConditionNewToday's Best DealsView at Walmart (opens in new tab)View at Amazon (opens in new tab)View at Best Buy (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Great size for travel+High-resolution sensor Reasons to avoid-No built-in viewfinder-No in-body image stabilization In many ways, the Canon EOS M6 Mark II redefines the term 'entry-level'. With a 32.5MP APS-C sensor, 14fps burst shooting and uncropped 4K video skills, it's a pretty tasty package. It's also an ideal size for travel, with a compact form and low weight that make it a truly portable powerhouse. At the core of the M6 Mark II is Canon's Digic 8 processor, which supports the impressively speedy and accurate 5481-point autofocus. There's no in-body image stabilization, but our test shots nevertheless had bags of detail and excellent colors, especially with the Fine Detail setting enabled. Our videos came out nicely saturated, as well. The absence of a viewfinder will be a dealbreaker for some, but the tilting touchscreen offers a familiar experience for smartphone users – and there is an optional EVF available. A trio of dials atop the M6 Mark II make in-depth adjustments accessible, and it's generally a lovely camera to grip and shoot with. The 305-shot battery life might be unremarkable, but the M6 Mark II is still a fantastic camera overall, with lots to offer for first-time mirrorless buyers.Read our in-depth Canon EOS M6 Mark II review (Image credit: Future) 15 Sony Alpha A6000 A feature-packed mirrorless camera at a great price SpecificationsSensor size: APS-CResolution: 24.3MPViewfinder: NoMonitor: 3-inch tilting, 921,600 dotsMaximum continuous shooting rate: 6fpsMovies: Full HDUser level: BeginnerSensor size: APS-C CMOSResolution: 24.3MPViewfinder: EVF OLED, 1,440,000 dotsMonitor: 3-inch tilting LCD screen, 921,600 dotsMaximum continuous shooting rate: 11fpsMovies: 1080p User level: Beginner/enthusiastspecificationsStorage Size32GB - 64GBColourBlack, SilverScreen TypeOLEDRead more ▼Today's Best DealsView at Amazon (opens in new tab)View at Crutchfield (opens in new tab)View at Best Buy (opens in new tab) Reasons to buy+Compact build+Customizable buttons Reasons to avoid-No touchscreen-No 4K video Back when we tested it in 2017, we described the Sony Alpha A6000 as "very close to being the perfect compact system camera". Its performance next to the very latest mirrorless cameras now might look less impressive, but after several price cuts, it represents a very versatile option at a very appealing price. Yes, there are still some niggles, namely that the screen isn't touch-enabled and there isn't a quick way to set the AF point. But the Sony A6000 is also an attractive and accessible mirrorless camera, with a compact build that makes it properly portable. More importantly, image quality still holds up well today: the A6000 produces detailed, vibrant pictures in the majority of situations, with solid low-light performance at all but the highest sensitivities. Focusing speeds across the 179 autofocus points are similarly impressive and burst shooting is strong at 11fps. If you can do without a touchscreen, 4K video or in-body image stabilization, the A6000 offers brilliant bang for your buck.Read our in-depth Sony Alpha A6000 review How to choose the best beginner mirrorless camera Just because something is 'cheap', that doesn't necessarily mean it represents value for money. If you find you quickly outgrow it and need to upgrade very soon, then you'll end up spending even more money. Some of the cameras here might seem expensive to somebody buying their first camera, but we will have recommended them as something that should last you for many years to come. If you view your photography hobby as an investment, it will pay huge dividends if you can invest as much as you possibly can when you first get started. Inexpensive cameras can still do a good job, but when cutting back on price inevitably means that features and controls are missing – so ask yourself if the saving is worth missing out on something you think you'll need. (Image credit: Future) For example, the cheapest mirrorless cameras don't usually have viewfinders, but these can be invaluable for shooting in bright light, when the screen on the back can easily suffer from glare and reflections, so we'd always recommend stretching to a camera with a viewfinder if you can. Mirrorless cameras usually ship with either an APS-C or a slightly smaller Micro Four Thirds Sensor. Both represent a significant step up in resolution and image quality when compared to the small sensors found in a smartphone or compact camera, and the larger size means they also serve up superior low-light performance. The importance of other features will depend on your shooting style. Those looking to try out vlogging will welcome the excellent video specs of several cameras above, while in-body image stabilization will be a useful addition for those looking to shoot hand-held. You might want a camera that can shoot 4K, and not all of them can. Although it's becoming more common, it's still a somewhat new area for entry-level mirrorless cameras, and they don't all do it (though they do all offer regular 1920 x 1080 Full HD). Check out the specs of the rear screens, too. The size and resolution are not so important since they're all quite similar these days, but a touchscreen display will make the camera feel more like a phone, making the transition to using a "proper" camera a little easier since you'll already be used to tapping, swiping and so on. All the mirrorless cameras we've chosen for this list are well suited to beginners because of their price, size, ease of use, features or all of those things. You can also take a look at our other buying guides below if you're still undecided. Otherwise, read on to see the 10 best entry-level mirrorless cameras you can buy right now. 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. What camera should a beginner start with That really depends on what you'd like to do. An entry-level mirrorless camera is best if you want to up your photography game for social media or if you want to expand your photography skills. The beauty of most beginner mirrorless cameras is that they come bundled with a 'kit' lens to cover the most common shooting scenarios to get you started and give you enough flexibility to experiment with depth of field. As you progress, you should be able to expand your shooting setup since these camera bodies are compatible with at least one of that manufacturer's family of lenses.Round up of today's best deals (opens in new tab)Canon EOS R10 (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab)$979 (opens in new tab)View (opens in new tab)See all pricesReduced Price (opens in new tab)Nikon Z5 (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab)$1,399.99 (opens in new tab)$1,299.99 (opens in new tab)View (opens in new tab)See all prices (opens in new tab)Olympus PEN E-PL10 (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab)$599 (opens in new tab)View (opens in new tab)See all prices (opens in new tab)Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab)$699.99 (opens in new tab)View (opens in new tab)See all prices (opens in new tab)Nikon Z fc (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab)$956.95 (opens in new tab)View (opens in new tab)See all prices (opens in new tab)Fujifilm X-T30 II (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab)$899.95 (opens in new tab)View (opens in new tab)See all prices (opens in new tab)Fujifilm X-S10 (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab)$999.99 (opens in new tab)View (opens in new tab)See all prices (opens in new tab)Canon EOS M50 Mark II (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab)$599.99 (opens in new tab)View (opens in new tab)See all pricesReduced Price (opens in new tab)Panasonic Lumix GX9 (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab)$999.99 (opens in new tab)$797.99 (opens in new tab)View (opens in new tab)See all prices (opens in new tab)Sony A6100 (opens in new tab) (opens in new tab)$717.51 (opens in new tab)View (opens in new tab)See all pricesWe check over 250 million products every day for the best pricespowered by Mark WilsonCameras editorMark is the Cameras Editor at TechRadar. Having worked in tech journalism for a ludicrous 17 years, Mark is now attempting to break the world record for the number of camera bags hoarded by one person. He was previously Cameras Editor at Trusted Reviews, Acting editor on Stuff.tv, as well as Features editor and Reviews editor on Stuff magazine. As a freelancer, he's contributed to titles including The Sunday Times, FourFourTwo and Arena. And in a former life, he also won The Daily Telegraph's Young Sportswriter of the Year. But that was before he discovered the strange joys of getting up at 4am for a photo shoot in London's Square Mile. With contributions fromChris Rowlands See more Cameras news TechRadar Newsletter Sign up to get breaking news, reviews, opinion, analysis and more, plus the hottest tech deals! Thank you for signing up to TechRadar. You will receive a verification email shortly. There was a problem. Please refresh the page and try again. MOST POPULARMOST SHARED1RTX 4090 too expensive? 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