Last updated on December 6th, 2023
If you’re looking for a great camera that won’t break the bank, a mirrorless camera is a great option. And lucky for you, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best mirrorless cameras under $1,000. So whether you’re a beginner photographer just starting out, or you’re looking for an upgrade, we’ve got you covered.
With so many options to choose from, it can be tough to decide which camera is right for you. But with our help, narrowing it down to 10 shouldn’t be too difficult. So what are you waiting for? Start browsing through our list and find the perfect mirrorless camera for your needs!
Overall Best Mirrorless Camera Under $1,000
Fujifilm X-T3
The Fujifilm X-T3 is the best mirrorless camera under $1,000. It features a 26MP sensor, APS-C sensor, and ISO expands to 51200. With its great features and affordable price tag, the Fujifilm X-T3 is the perfect camera for any photographer looking for an upgrade.
The Fujifilm X-T3 features a 3” LCD screen, which makes it easy to frame and review shots. It also has the ability to record 4K video, making it a great option for anyone looking to capture professional-quality video footage. Additionally, the Fujifilm X-T3 can shoot at 20 FPS, making it a great choice for capturing fast-moving subjects.
What We Like/Dislike About the Fujifilm X-T3
Like:
- Excellent 26.1 megapixel sensor
- 4K video at 60fps
- Great-quality images right out of camera
- Sharp, fluid EVF is a joy to look through
Dislike:
- Very sensitive to touch input
- No in-body stabilisation
- Tilting screen, not fully articulation
What Consumers Are Saying
“I am a avid photographer that owns just about everything under the sun. Canon 1Dxmk2, Sony A73, Canon 5Dsr, Canon c100, Gh5, Fuji X-T2 and now the X-T3. This camera is great. Much faster autofocus than the previous model X-T2. Face and eye focus is on par with the Sony A73.”
“Two years ago I switched from Canon to Fuji and haven’t looked back. Even after a brief fling with the Sony a7RIII when it came out last year, I discovered I still preferred shooting with Fuji. So when the Fuji X-T3 was announced earlier this year, I knew I had to get it.”
“The Fujifilm X-T3 is a fantastic camera, I’m so glad I upgraded.”
Best Runner Up Mirrorless Camera Under $1,000
Canon EOS M6 Mark II
The Canon EOS M6 Mark II is a great camera for anyone looking to upgrade their photography skills with a mirrorless camera under $1,000. The Canon EOS M6 Mark II is the perfect camera for any aspiring photographer. With its 33MP sensor and ISO range of 100-25600, this sleek device will provide you with stunning images or videos that are sure to impress anyone!
The camera is an excellent choice for sports and other fast-moving subjects, as it can capture images at 14 frames per second! Additionally, the Canon EOS M6 Mark II can shoot 4K video, making it a great option for anyone looking to capture professional-quality video footage. The Canon EOS M6 Mark II also features a 3” touchscreen LCD screen, which makes it easy to frame and review shots.
What We Like/Dislike About the Canon EOS M6 Mark II
Like:
- Massive 32.5MP APS-C sensor
- Uncropped 4K with Dual Pixel CMOS AF
- 14fps continuous / 30fps burst
Dislike:
- No in-body image stabilization
- Native EF-M lenses still limited
What Consumers Are Saying
“A niche product for the existing Canon user base”
“The resolution is nothing short of amazing — 16 X 24 prints right out of the camera if you wish.”
“I chose this camera mainly for the ability to go small when I take it out with me while also having the ability to adapt to EF lenses specifically for macro photography of coral.”
Honorable Mentions
Nikon Z50
There are many different types of cameras on the market, but if you’re looking for something that will help your photography skills and take great photos then Nikon’s Z50 might be just what you need. With its 21MP sensor and ISO range of 100-25600, the Nikon Z50 is capable of capturing stunning images and videos.
The Nikon Z50 also features a 11 fps shooting speed, making it a great choice for capturing fast-moving subjects. Additionally, the Nikon Z50 can shoot 4K video, making it a great option for anyone looking to capture professional-quality video footage. The Nikon Z50 also features a 3.2” touchscreen LCD screen, which makes it easy to use and frame shots.
What We Like/Dislike About the Nikon Z50
Like:
- Compact size and handling
- 4K video
- 11fps continuous shooting
Dislike:
- Single UHS I SD card slot
- 300-shot battery life
- Awkward flip-under selfie screen
What Consumers Are Saying
“I do a lot of macro photography. I bought this camera and a Z50 macro lens for medical dermatology photos. the pictures far exceed my D850 and 105 macro lens in clarity and sharpness.”
“Good for beginners, my wife likes it”
“I think this is a great camera for anyone just getting into photography or even trying to go pro.”
Panasonic Lumix DC-GX9
If you’re looking for an easy-to use, great quality camera that will help improve your photography skills then the Panasonic Lumix DC-GX9 should be at top of consideration. With its 20MP sensor and ISO range of 200-25600, the Panasonic Lumix DC-GX9 has been designed to capture stunning images and videos.
One of the biggest benefits of the Panasonic Lumix DC-GX9 is its 3” tilting LCD touchscreen. This touchscreen makes it easy to frame and review shots, making it a great choice for anyone looking to improve their photography skills. Additionally, the Panasonic Lumix DC-GX9 features a 9 fps shooting speed, making it a great choice for capturing fast-moving subjects. Finally, the Panasonic Lumix DC-GX9 can shoot 4K video, making it a great option for anyone looking to capture professional-quality video footage.
What We Like/Dislike About the Panasonic Lumix DC-GX9
Like:
- Great image quality
- Good high ISO performance
- Improved JPEG processing
- Fast autofocus
Dislike:
- Below average battery life
- No mic/headphone jacks
- Noticeable crop on 4K video.
What Consumers Are Saying
“Excellent Camera. Has a more boxy shape then the similar GX85 and offers (very slightly) better color rendering and IQ”
“Very solid camera for all around needs”
“I’m a professional photographer who has been using Panasonic cameras for years. The GX9 is an excellent all-around camera.”
Canon EOS RP
The Canon EOS RP offers an amazing camera for anyone looking to get into mirrorless photography at a great price. With its 26MP sensor and ISO range from 100-40000, this sleek little shooter can capture some breathtaking photos or videos!
One of the biggest benefits of the Canon EOS RP is its lightweight design. This camera is perfect for anyone looking to take their photography skills to the next level without having to lug around a heavy DSLR. The Canon EOS RP is perfect for capturing fast-moving subjects, with a 5 fps shooting speed that will allow you to get the best shots of your subject. The Canon EOS RP features a 3” fully articulated LCD touchscreen. This touchscreen makes it easy to frame and review shots. Finally, the Canon EOS RP can shoot 4K video, making it a great option for anyone looking to start vlogging.
What We Like/Dislike About the Canon EOS RP
Like:
- lightweight body
- Fully articulating screen
- 4K video
- Great price
Dislike:
- 1.6x crop + no Dual Pixel AF in 4K
- Bad battery life
What Consumers Are Saying
“This is by far the best bang for your buck mirrorless period . Full frame mirrorless with great low light . I have mine matched with a old ef 50mm (1.4) lens . It is awesome shooting in New York City with.”
“I am very happy with this purchase. I think it’s a great entry level mirrorless camera.”
“I upgraded from a Canon 70D and couldn’t be more satisfied.”
Sony a6000
The Sony a6000 offers an affordable, high-quality mirrorless camera that’s perfect for anyone who wants to get into photography or videography. With its 24MP sensor and ISO expandable up past 51200 – yes you read correctly!, this little guy will make your photos look like they came straight off of film!
One of the biggest benefits of the Sony a6000 is its 3” tilting LCD screen. This screen makes it easy to frame and review shots, making it a great choice for anyone looking to improve their photography skills. Additionally, the Sony a6000 features a 11 fps shooting speed, making it a great choice for capturing fast-moving subjects. Finally, the Sony a6000 can shoot full HD 1080p video, making it perfect for anyone looking to create high-quality videos.
What We Like/Dislike About the Sony a6000
Like:
- Powerful features for stills
- Sharp 24MP sensor
- Good autofocus
- Built-in EVF
Dislike:
- Handling poor with larger lenses
- Lacks 4K video
- Not so good at high ISOs
What Consumers Are Saying
“5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent beginner camera for landscape and portrait artists! HIGHLY recommend.”
“Bought this camera about a year ago as a gateway into photography. I was hesitant at first because I know how expensive good cameras can be and this one was at the lower end of the price spectrum, but, after seeing what it can do, I’m so extremely happy with this purchase.”
“Superb little camera! I’ve owned this for 2 months now and took this to on a 3 week trip around Japan and South Korea.”
Olympus OM-D E-M10 II
The Olympus OM-D E_M10 II is a camera for everyone, with its affordable price tag and high quality images. With 16MP sensor plus ISO expandable up to 25600 the user will never be disappointed in their purchase!
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 II features a 3” LCD touchscreen. This touchscreen makes it easy to frame and review shots, making it a great choice for anyone looking to improve their photography skills. Additionally, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 II features an 8 fps shooting speed, making it a great choice for capturing moving subjects. Finally, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 II can shoot full HD 1080p video, making it perfect for anyone looking to create high-quality videos.
What We Like/Dislike About the Olympus OM-D E-M10 II
Like:
- Small size
- Good range of lenses
- Great features and performance
Dislike:
- A few irritating control glitches
- Smaller sensor than APS-C cameras
- No 4K video
What Consumers Are Saying
“I am into hiking so I needed a camera I could carry around all day and that had good image quality”
“I wanted a small camera I could take on vacation without feeling like I was lugging around a DSLR.”
“I am very impressed with the performance of this little camera. It is fast, has great image quality, and is fun to use.”
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7
The Lumix DMC-G7 is a camera for anyone looking to get into photography or videography without breaking their budget. With its 16MP sensor and ISO expandable up past 25600, this Mirrorless Camera will give you amazing photos that are sure not disappoint!
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7 features a 3” fully articulated LCD touchscreen. This touchscreen makes it easy to frame and review shots, making it a great choice for anyone looking to improve their photography skills. Additionally, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7 features a 7 fps shooting speed, making it a great choice for capturing fast-moving subjects. Finally, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7 can shoot full 4K UHD video, making it perfect for anyone looking to create high-quality videos.
What We Like/Dislike About the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7
Like:
- Responsive touchscreen display
- Electronic shutter enables silent shooting and fast shutter speeds
- 4K video
Dislike:
- Top plate, dials and buttons have a plasticky feel
- Low resolution previews in 4K photo mode via the EVF
- APS-C rivals offer better dynamic range
What Consumers Are Saying
“What a camera you’re getting for this price point! The Panasonic G7 is the sixth camera in their G series line, and I have to say they have finally nailed it.”
“I’ve had this camera for a little over a month now and I’m very pleased with the purchase. I’ve been wanting to get into photography for years but never wanted to spend the money on a DSLR.”
“The Panasonic G7 is an excellent stills/video camera, especially at this price point.”
Canon EOS M100
The Canon EOS M100 is a great camera for anyone looking for an affordable mirrorless camera under $1,000. With its 24MP sensor and ISO expandable to 25600, the Canon EOS M100 is capable of capturing amazing images and videos.
The Canon EOS M100 features a 3” LCD touchscreen. This touchscreen makes it easy to frame and review shots, making it a great choice for anyone looking to improve their photography skills. Additionally, the Canon EOS M100 features a 6 fps shooting speed, making it a great choice for capturing fast-moving subjects. Finally, the Canon EOS M100 can shoot full HD 1080p video, making it perfect for anyone looking to create high-quality videos.
What We Like/Dislike About the Canon EOS M100
Like:
- Very compact
- Fast autofocus
- Built-in flash
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Dislike:
- No EVF or mic input
- 1080p video feels dated
- Not a lot of native lenses
What Consumers Are Saying
” Nicely built, but the interface is a little frustrating for those who want more control.”
“The Canon EOS M100 is a great little camera that takes amazing pictures and videos.”
“I bought this camera to take on vacation and it worked great. The video quality is very good and the pictures are beautiful.”
Sony Alpha NEX-5R
If you’re looking for the best mirrorless camera under $1,000, the Sony Alpha NEX-5R is a great option. It features 16MP resolution, as well as APS-C sensor size, which helps to ensure high-quality images. Additionally, the ISO up to 25600 ensures that you’ll be able to take clear pictures even in low light conditions.
The Sony Alpha NEX-5R also features a number of great benefits, including a 3” tilting touchscreen, 10 FPS shooting speed, and Full HD 1080p video recording. With the tilting touchscreen, you’ll be able to easily take pictures from different angles. And with the 10 FPS shooting speed, you’ll be able to capture all the action without missing a beat. Finally, the Full HD 1080p video recording will allow you to record high-quality videos that you can watch again and again.
What We Like/Dislike About the Sony Alpha NEX-5R
Like:
- Great low-light performance
- Excellent video capture
- Improved handling over previous generation
Dislike:
- No viewfinder
- Controls are still limited
What Consumers Are Saying
“I just love this camera. I bought this to replace my old original NEX-3. There is a lot to love.”
“I have been using this for a few weeks now and I must say it is an excellent camera.”
“I was hesitant to spend so much on a mirrorless camera, but after using it for a while, I’m glad I did.”
Conclusion
If you’re a photographer looking for an upgrade, we’ve got the best mirrorless camera under $1,000 for you. These cameras are perfect for anyone who wants to take their photography skills to the next level without breaking the bank. We’ve chosen our top 10 favorites based on features, price and overall value. So whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there’s sure to be a camera in this list that’s perfect for your needs.
FAQ
Which brand is best for mirrorless camera?
There’s no easy answer when it comes to finding the best brand for mirrorless cameras. However, we’ve compiled a list of our top 10 favorites to help you narrow down your choices.
What are the best features of a mirrorless camera?
When choosing a mirrorless camera, it’s important to consider what features are most important to you. Some features that you may want to consider include: resolution, sensor size, shooting speed, video quality and expandable ISO.
Do professional photographers use mirrorless cameras?
Yes, many professional photographers use mirrorless cameras. In fact, some of the most popular mirrorless camera brands are used by professional photographers around the world.