Camera Recommendations

Introduction

• All cameras presented are based on personal experience, not theoretical or theoretical specs.
• No sponsorship or paid promotions.
• Recommended kits and prices will be listed in the description below.

Cameras Under $300

• Great options for tight budgets.
• Example camera: Sony a* (costs around $250 - $290).
  • Comparable photo quality to higher-end models like Sony a6700.
  • Features: reliable autofocus and face recognition.
  • Very compact size, smallest e-mount camera.
  • Mainly a photo camera; video quality may be inferior to modern smartphones.
• Alternatives:
  • Sony NEX-7 (under $300).
  • Sony a5100 (slightly above $300).
• Olympus OM EM1 (best build quality and handling in this category).
  • Photo quality: excellent skin tones and natural colors.
  • In-body image stabilization (IBIS).
  • Accurate autofocus.
  • Weather-sealed, metal body with great ergonomics.
  • Affordable micro four-thirds lenses available.

Cameras Under $600

• Canon M50
  • Popular with a cult following.
  • 24MP APS-C sensor; similar image quality to newer Canon R series.
  • Good ergonomics and access to EF lenses (via adapter).
  • Primarily a 1080p video camera; 4K with crop.
• Panasonic GH5
  • Best video camera under $600; great for YouTube and vlogging.
  • Exceptional IBIS; customizable with many buttons/dials.
  • 10-bit log footage and open gate video capability.
• Fujifilm XT1/XT2
  • XT1 has a 16MP sensor, while XT2 has a 24MP sensor.
  • Known for tactile controls and organic image quality.

Cameras Under $1,000

• Canon R50
  • Improved version of M50 with RF lens mount.
  • Good autofocus and high-quality 4K video.
• Sony A6100/ZV-E10
  • A6100 is a hybrid camera with viewfinder; good for photo shooters.
  • ZV-E10 is a vlogger's camera with advanced video features.
• Fujifilm XT3
  • Pro-level camera with weather sealing, dual card slots, and 10-bit log video.

Cameras Under $1,500

• Canon R8
  • Entry-level full-frame camera with excellent features at a low price.
  • Comparison to Canon R6 Mark II; good for those wanting a full-frame camera.
• Sony A7C
  • Compact full-frame camera; good for portability.
  • 8-bit video recording, less impressive than Canon R8.
• Fujifilm XS20
  • Excellent video quality with 10-bit 422 video; great for video shooters.

Cameras Under $2,500

• Honorable Mention: Nikon ZF
  • Classic design with great ergonomics; appealing to photography enthusiasts.
• Lumix S5 II
  • Great value for under $2,500.
  • Exceptional IBIS and image quality; advanced video features including 6K video.
• Sony A74
  • Reliable, versatile camera with a 33MP sensor and 10-bit 4K video.
• Fujifilm XH2
  • 40MP sensor; excellent 8K video; best in build quality.
• Fujifilm GFX 100S
  • 100MP medium format sensor; versatile for photography and video.

Conclusion

• For improving photo and video quality, check out the recommended tutorial video linked in the description.