The best compact, bridge, mirrorless, SLR cameras (DSLR) of June 2018.
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Do you want to approach the world of photography or are you thinking of a nice gift for your amateur photographer? You are on the right page. Here we report the factual review, updated in June 2018, of the best digital cameras.
The market is full of many choices of camera starting from Compact, bridge, mirrorless, and SLR. So let’s see what are the best cameras to shoot with and why not shoot quality videos in June 2018.
How do we choose the cameras?
As mentioned, the cameras on the market are many. The criteria we use for this selection are related to the general framework of a device. Quality of image and design, wealth of features and possible objectives park. When possible we will rely on our experience and direct tests, otherwise, we will rely only on the most reliable sources.
Ours are then obviously advice that you will have to weigh according to your needs. For example, are you entering the world of photography for the first time? Also, need to inquire about the costs of the device in their market?. Do you already have quality objectives for a certain brand? It may be worth renouncing certain features to fully exploit them without changing the ecosystem.
That said you just have to continue reading with our list of the best cameras, which we will update from month to month.
Best cheap compact cameras
Compact low-end cameras are an endangered breed. Many carry smartphones in their pockets provided with a photographic compartment with all the potential to shoot excellent photos in many conditions. Even the action cams do not help keep this category alive, but it still has something to offer.
If you are looking for a portable solution to the maximum, save a few euros for a smartphone with a good camera, if you are looking for resistance and fun, throw yourself on the action camera. If, however, you are looking for optical zoom and old-style photographic entertainment, keep reading.
Sony DSC-W830
The relatively inexpensive compact cameras, capable of justifying the investment of the figure on a top-range smartphone, are less and less. Among these are the Cyber-Shot W830, a nice compact camera that has a sensor (CCD 1 / 2.3 “) 20.1 megapixel and an 8x optical zoom. Too bad for videos only at 720p, but the rest costs about € 100.
- PURCHASE: € 103.50 (Amazon)
Nikon Coolpix W100
In this range are also compact rugged, or designed to withstand the weather. Perfect travel companions these are an alternative to the action camera, promising more flexibility in shooting (do not take one if you look for 4K videos with the “wow” effect).
The W100 is in this category and offers a 13.2 MP sensor coupled to a practical 3x zoom. You can immerse it up to 10 meters underwater and do not even fear falls from 1.8 meters, temperatures down to -10 ° C or dust. The possibility of shooting videos in full HD and compatibility with the convenient SnapBridge standard, to manage the photos even from smartphones, are appreciated.
- PURCHASE: 145.99 € (Amazon)
Fujifilm FinePix XP130
Even the FinePix XP130 is a rugged camera, designed for a more adult audience. It is a 16 megapixel with 5x optical zoom (24-140mm) that offers several interesting features such as timelapse, full HD video at 60 fps, a display from 3 “to 920K resolution points and especially optical stabilization. The water resistance is guaranteed up to 15 meters deep and the XP130 also withstands falls of up to 1.75 meters. If you have a particularly busy life, know that it could do for you.
- PURCHASE: € 219.99 (Amazon)
Best compact mid-range cameras
Let’s move on to see models suitable for those looking for something more than a tip and shoot. Whether it is a small handyman that serves as an occasional alternative to your DSRL or a travel and video companion you can find it below.
Nikon Coolpix A900
The Nikon Coolpix A900 is interesting not only because it is a compact 20-megapixel 35x zoom (24-840 mm f / 3.4-6.9 equivalent), but also because it is one of the few in the category to offer video recording in 4K at 30 fps. Present a pair of ring nuts, but on the back side dominates the 3 “fold-down display. Complete the Nikon SnapBridge connectivity and the pop-up flash.
- PURCHASE: € 374 (Amazon)
Sony DSC-HX90
One of the most interesting solutions in the compact range with a 1 / 2.3 “sensor. In fact, this 18 megapixel is inspired by the much more expensive RX100, with retractable electronic viewfinder, lens ring that acts as a customizable ring. All in a very compact body.
The zoom of this compact is a generous 24-720 mm F3.5-6.4 (30x). You can take pictures between 80 and 12,800 ISO or shoot videos up to 1080p at 60fps (XAVC S codecs up to 50 Mbps). There is no lack of Wi-Fi and NFC. In the HX90V version there is also the GPS, but we, unless special needs, we recommend the already excellent smooth version.
- PURCHASE: € 320.99 (Amazon)
Best professional compact cameras
The compact camera does not mean necessarily renouncing quality. These that you find in this section of our review are in fact the top of the category of various companies, suitable for those looking for the best compromise between versatility, portability, and quality.
Canon Powershot G7 X Mark II
In our compact premium list, this compact also includes a 1 “BSI CMOS 20 megapixel sensor, which with the DIGIC 7 processor offers sensitivity between 125 and 12800 ISO, expandable to ISO 25600. The strengths of this compact are different, starting from the bright 24-100 mm zoom F1.8-2.8 equivalent.
Too bad for the videos that, although well implemented (in terms of autofocus and quality), stop at 1080p at 60 fps and the subdued autonomy. However, it is revealed as an excellent alternative for those looking for a valid travel companion and those who prefer the RAW format. To save a little you can bet on the new G9 X Mark II, very similar in features but without a folding display and slightly slower zoom.
- PURCHASE: 562 € (Amazon)
Panasonic DMC-TZ200
Launched in early 2018, the Panasonic DMC-TZ200 is one of the best compacts in terms of value for money and is especially interesting if you are directing your purchase towards a solution that is also suitable for video.
On board, you will find a nice 1 “BSI CMOS 20 megapixel sensor, coupled to a 24-360mm zoom f / 3.3-6.4 (15x) stabilized equivalent, capable of taking high-quality photos especially in RAW format and shoot videos in 4K. The ISO range is 125-12.800, which can be expanded to ISO 80-25.600.
The features are as many as the electronic viewfinder, an excellent touch interface, and the fast autofocus system. Clearly present manual controls. All in a very compact format, even if not very pocketable. A product that aims at enthusiasts who find DSLRs too bulky and do not want to spend on a compact APS-C or full frame.
- PURCHASE: € 797 (Amazon)
Sony DSC-RX100
The Sony RX100 is probably the most popular in its class, that of compact premium. With the revision of October 2016, we got to the fifth version, precisely the Mark V. This mounts a 1 “BSI CMOS sensor, with 20 megapixels flanked by Bionz X image processor. With this supply is able to shoot with gusts up to 24 fps (yes, you read that right) and shoot 4K video.
Dynamic range at the top and the mini format make this camera the most attractive of this section. It’s a pity that Sony charges its technology dearly. For an RX100 Mark V, it takes (with a little luck) about 980 €. If these figures are not for you know that both Mark IV and Mark III are still valid alternatives.
- PURCHASE: 948 € (Amazon)
Best economic and professional bridge cameras (superzoom)
If you have arrived in this review looking for a bridge, fixed lens cameras with a generous zoom, here are the best “compact not compact”, perfect for shots at any distance.
Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82
One of the most interesting superzoom bridges on the market. Mounts a goal 20-1200 mm f / 2.8-5.9 equivalent, behind which is located a BSI CMOS sensor 1 / 2.3 “with 19 megapixels. The processor allows you to shoot between 80 and 6,400 ISO in expanded mode, as well as shoot video up to 4K at 30 fps, even if only for a maximum of 15 minutes. Present an electronic viewfinder, touch screen and Wi-Fi and support for RAW shots.
- PURCHASE: € 274.99 (Amazon)
Nikon Coolpix P900
The P900 is powerful, in terms of zoom, Nikon’s bridge. Its objective is an 83.3x, a 24-2000mm F2.8-6.5 equivalent with an ED element, which reaches 166x with the Dynamic Fine Zoom function.
The sensor, 1 / 2.3 “16 megapixels, allows you to shoot between 100 and 6,400 ISO (expandable to 12,800 ISO in black and white) with gusts up to 7 fps, but no RAW. The videos turn them up to 1080p at 60 fps. The photos can be exchanged via wireless Wi-Fi and NFC and there is also GPS.
- PURCHASE: 564 € (Amazon)
Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ2000
Let’s move on to the top models in the category. Among these, the new DMC-FZ2000 recently also available. It is a bridge top, perfect also for amateur video. The zoom is not the most powerful, a 20x (24-480 mm F2.8-4.5), but the sensor here is 1″ with 20 megapixels, to shoot at 7 fps between ISO 125-12800 and 80-25600 with expanded range. The supply of technologies is remarkable, starting from the Autofocus system Depth from Defocus and the one for the still- focused Focus Stacking images. With the FZ200 video, you can shoot them up to 4K (DCI and UHD) at 30 fps. A nice car that obviously makes you pay.
- PURCHASE: 937 € (Amazon)
Sony RX10 Mark IV
In this category also the “luxurious” and modern Sony RX10 IV. Its zoom is a 25x, or a 24-600 mm F2.4-4, and is coupled to a 1 “sensor, BSI CMOS, which shoots between 100 and 12,800 (between 64 and 25,600 ISO in expansion mode). Everything is managed by the Bionz X image processor, the same used for the powerful a9 mirrorless.
The gusts thus arrive at a full 24 fps and the autofocus that promises hookup times of only 0.03 seconds on 315 points offered with a High-Density tracking system. The SteadyShot stabilization system promises up to 4.5 stops of gain, also useful for shooting in 4K. Speaking of video worthy of note the gamma curves S-Log2 / S-Gamut 2 and S-Log3 / S-Gamut3 and Gamma Display Assist.
If the weight of more than 1 kg does not scare you know that this bridge is among the best on the market, as it reminds us of the price that reaches almost € 2,000. Alternatively, you can point to the previous model, the Mark III, which still proves to be a great all-in-one photographic tool.
- PURCHASE: 1.855 € (Amazon)
Best cheap mirrorless cameras
Let’s see what offers the category of cameras with interchangeable lenses, in the entry-level range. Solutions for those who want to get closer to the world of photography in its most classic look, without sacrificing portability, ease of use and (usually not too much) to image quality.
Canon EOS M10
The Canon EOS M10 is a good entry level, especially with the stabilized 15-45mm F3.5-6.3 IS lens kit. The sensor is a nice 18-megapixel APS-C, which shoots between 100 and 12,800 ISO, 25,600 ISO in expansion mode.
The autofocus system is CMOS II AF, while Wi-Fi and NFC are a nice addition, as well as the folding display and pop-up flash. However, the videos do not exceed 1080p at 30 fps.
- PURCHASE: € 436 (Amazon)
Panasonic Lumix DC-GX800
Among the most interesting in the categories also the DC-GX800. It is especially desirable to those who do not want to renounce the video sector as the videos reach up to 4K at 30 fps. Also, present other features shared with the top of Panasonic, such as 4K Photo, to extrapolate 8-megapixel photos from short videos.
YI M1
The sensor is 16 megapixel and the sensitivity range expands between 200 and 25.600 ISO. Complete the whole 3 “fold-down display and, obviously, the Wi-Fi connectivity.
- PURCHASE: € 474 (Amazon)
Olympus PEN E-PL8
Olympus PEN E-PL8 is the relatively new arrival of the Japanese house in the low-end of its mirrors. Despite this amateur nature, we find many features of the OM-D tops.
The sensor is a 4/3 of 16 megapixels (ISO 200 – 25.600), flanked by autofocus with 81 points, which is well suited for bursts at 8 fps. The display flips back to 180 °, but the integrated flash is missing; fortunately, there is the sled and in the package, there is also an external flash. However, the videos do not exceed full HD at 30 fps.
- PURCHASE: € 599 (Amazon)
Best medium-range mirrorless cameras
Among the low cost and top range, there are several interesting mirrorlesses, able to please even the amateur of a certain level that seeks more compact solutions of the classic SLR.
Canon EOS M6
The EOS M6 is the mirrorless middle-class Canon but has everything you need to please the photos/video amateur (at least those who do not point to 4K). The objective compartment is perhaps not the most supplied, those with the native EF-M connection, but with a special adapter, and sacrificing the overall dimensions, it is possible to fit all the EF-S.
The 24 MP sensor takes excellent photos even in difficult light conditions and can also be used to shoot video up to full HD at 60 fps. All supported by the Dual Pixel autofocus system, really high performance.
- PURCHASE: 635 € (Amazon)
Olympus OM-D E-M10 III
One of the most popular in this range is the E-M10 III, a revised model of 2015. The sensor on this mirrorless is a CMOS 4/3 format 16 megapixel. The camera allows you to shoot between 100 and 25.600 ISO in expanded mode. The videos reach 4K at 30 fps or full HD at 60 fps.
To compose the frame, you can use the 3 “fold-down display or the 2.36 million dots OLED electronic viewfinder. The style is reminiscent of the old Olympus SLRs (for us a plus) but in this medium range, there is no tropicalization.
The OM-D E-M10 III, not being very recent, is at rather interesting prices, even on kits that include a lens.
- PURCHASE: 746 € (Amazon)
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G80
Among the latest Panasonic cameras also this mirrorless DSLR style. It is a model that brings all the best of Panasonic technology into a tropicalized body (resistant to splashes and dust).
On board a 16 megapixel CMOS sensor, a 4/3 without an AA filter, which shoots between 100 and 25.600 ISO and makes shooting up to 4K. The display is articulated, but there is also a 2.36 million dot OLED electronic viewfinder. 5-axis body stabilization, Wi-Fi and autofocus system Depth from Defocus make this mirrorless one of the most interesting on the market.
- PURCHASE: 655 € (Amazon)
Fujifilm X-T20
We close with the latest mid-range of Fujifilm, the X-T20, a miniature X-T2 with a 24-megapixel X-Trans III APS-C sensor and X-Processor Pro processor that allows you to shoot up to 4K at 30 fps.
Present all the supply that makes appreciate the Fujifilm, as an electronic viewfinder, style, and materials treated and many physical commands.
- PURCHASE: 804 € (Amazon)
Best professional and prosumer mirrorless cameras
If you do not have budget problems and look for the top of the category, know that there are several mirrorlesses that have very little to envy the camera flags, indeed. Here is our selection.
Sony Alpha a6500
Small in size, the a6500 is the evolution of the 6300. It mounts a 25-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor. It shoots between 100 and 25.600 ISO (expandable to 51,200 ISO) and also shoots videos in 4K.
Much remains of the previous model, namely the hybrid focusing system, the electronic viewfinder and the magnesium-plated tropical alloy body. The new LSI coprocessor that joins the Bionz X allows bursts up to 8 fps and improved autofocus.
Then there is a 5-axis stabilization system, which promises up to 5 gain stops. Complete the all the now inevitable Wi-Fi and NFC. A nice set of features that you charge.
- PURCHASE: € 1,399 (Amazon)
Fujifilm X-T2
The fascinating Fujifilm X-T2 is reminiscent of an old SLR camera. The philosophy remains that of the X-T1 – many useful manual commands in the right place. The improvements of the new version are in fact to be searched all inside the camera.
The sensor is a 24-megapixel X-Trans CMOS III, flanked by an image processor that allows you to shoot between 200 and 12,800 ISO (100-51,200 ISO in expanded mode). The autofocus system offers 273 points of which 77 with phase detection.
A machine designed also for video, which comes to 4K (high quality) but without a dedicated grip does not exceed 10 minutes in length. Do not miss the Wi-Fi is the body is also tropicalized.
- PURCHASE: € 1,309 (Amazon)
Panasonic DC-GH5
On board the Panasonic DC-GH5 you will find a real concentrate of technology. Everything revolves around the image processor the Venus Engine that manages the 20.3-megapixel sensor to take pictures with gusts of 6K and shoot video up to 4K at 60 fps. If you add to this the tropicalized body and features as a double UHS-II SD slot and five-axis stabilization, you have already understood the high target of this photo/video camera.
- PURCHASE: € 1,760 (Amazon)
Sony Alpha 7R II
Here is the mirrorless top range from Sony. It is a 42-megapixel full frame that integrates the top of Sony technology. The generous size of the BSI CMOS sensor allows the camera to shoot between 50 and 102.400 ISO, in expansion mode.
The on-board stabilizer is certified for gains in the order of 4.5 stops. The focusing system instead offers well 399 points and does not fear even the most hectic situations. Obviously, it shoots 4K video, up to 30 fps, in the XAVC S format and with the S-Log2 and S-Log3 gamut. A top product that we find with prices in the order of € 3,200 abundant, for the body only.
- PURCHASE: $ 1,198 (Amazon)
Best cheap SLR cameras (DSLR)
Those approaching the world of photography, in the most technical terms of the concept, are usually addressed on digital SLRs or DSLRs. The so-called entry level is a way to experience this world without spending exaggerated figures. So you can experiment and save for a future investment, whether this is a good quality objective or a superior model.
Canon EOS 4000D
The latest entry-level SLR from Canon is this EOS 4000D. It mounts an 18-megapixel APS-C sensor flanked by a DIGIC 4+ processor. It can thus shoot, with gusts up to 3 fps, photos between 100 and 6,400 ISO (12,800 in expansion mode).
The basic functions are all there, such as manual shooting modes and classic scenes, plus there is full HD video up to 30 fps in addition to Wi-Fi to control the camera from smartphones. The price is a really interesting aspect of this camera. For a kit that includes body and the latest version of the classic 18-55 mm is less than € 410.
Nikon D3400
In this range, you will also find the relatively new Nikon D3400, a 24-megapixel APS-C with EXPEED 4 processor. It offers an 11-point focusing system and gusts of up to 5 fps. The sensitivity can be set between 100 and 25.600 ISO. Interesting, for the category, 1080p video at 60 fps but lacks Wi-Fi, replaced by Bluetooth (SnapBridge). All in all an entry level not bad.
- PURCHASE: 498 € (Amazon)
Canon EOS 200D
The brand new Canon EOS 200D is proposed as an entry-level camera, but with the components (sensor, image processor, and autofocus Dual Pixel) of a certain level. Despite costs, a bit ‘more than the alternatives in this range is proposed as a valuable investment that can accompany and satisfy both those who approach the world of photography and those looking for a quality solution but not too expensive.
On board the 24 MP APS-C sensor, DIGIC 7 image processor, to shoot between 100 and 25.600 ISO and shoot video in 1080p up to 60 fps, Dual Pixel autofocus with 9 points, rotatable and tilt display, as well as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC.
- PURCHASE: 548 € (Amazon)
Best SLR cameras (DSLR) mid-range
This band is among the most crowded in the market as we find both the models just above the entry level and those that approach the prosumer. Here are the ones that we think are the best choices.
Nikon D5600
A step above the new D3400 is the equally recent D5600. This compact DSLR incorporates a 24-megapixel APS-C sensor, without a low-pass filter (OLPF), and operated by EXPEED 4 processor.
Even on this Nikon, the ISO range is between 100 and 25.600, the bursts are 5 fps and full HD video at 60 fps. In addition, you find a 39-point autofocus system that can hook a subject and follow it on three dimensions. The display is a 3.2 “articulated and the connectivity compartment includes Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and NFC ( SnapBridge ).
- PURCHASE: 597 € (Amazon)
Canon EOS 77D
The 77D is the latest in one of Canon’s most popular series. The camera incorporates a 24-megapixel sensor flanked by the DIGIC 7 processor. It shoots between 100 and 25.600 ISO, rising to 51,200 ISO in expanded mode.
On board, the high-performance Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology, already seen on many another medium-high end Canon and that works very well even on the most difficult subjects. However, this is only used in “Live View” mode, ie when the optical viewfinder is excluded. Otherwise, the 77D uses a 45-point cross system . Video 1080p at 60 fps, Wi-Fi and NFC complete the picture of this camera.
- PURCHASE: € 743.14 (Amazon)
Nikon D7500
Among the top of the mid-range is the interesting Nikon D7500. Interesting because it shares a lot with the flagship D500, even if it costs a little less. Inside the body (almost the same as the previous D7200) a 20-megapixel CMOS sensor flanked by an Expeed 5 image processor.
With this delivery, it shoots between 100 and 1,640,000 ISO and shoots video up to 4K at 30 fps. The bursts arrive at 8 fps and also the autofocus compartment + exposure calculation is high-end.
- PURCHASE: € 1,192 (Amazon)
Best premium SLR cameras (DSLR) and prosumer
The last section of our collection is dedicated to prosumer, solutions suitable for both the amateur and the professional. Prices are obviously high, but we are talking about investments that, except for special needs, will remain valid for years.
Nikon D850
The Nikon D850 is one of the most critically acclaimed SLR cameras in the full frame. The image quality is in both photos and videos. The secret is the union of the 45- megapixel Nikon FX sensor (full frame) with the EXPEED 5 processor (ISO 64 – 25,600 in expansion mode) and the 153-point autofocus system, based on a 180,000-pixel sensor RGB, the same as the D5.
The bursts reach 9 fps. Perfect for almost all types of photography, the Nikon D500, which also integrates NFC, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth (SnapBridge), you can buy (body only) to about € 3,200.
- PURCHASE: $ 3,299 (Amazon)
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Canon updates its “mini” flagship full frame, much appreciated by photographers as well as by video makers. On mark four, you will find a 30-megapixel 35 mm sensor flanked by a DIGIC 6+ processor.
The sensitivity range is between 100 and 32,000 ISO, or between 50 and 102.400 ISO in expanded mode. During framing and shooting, up to 4K at 30 fps (from which you can also extract 8.8 MP photos), in Live View mode, you can use the fast and smooth Dual Pixel AF focus system.
With the viewfinder, 61 AF points are offered, of which 41 are cross-shaped. Despite the resolution, the bursts reach 7 fps. Still, in the imaging area, the Dual Pixel Raw technology (in RAW shots) helps to correct small errors in focusing in post-production. Present Wi-Fi, NFC, and GPS.
A machine that satisfies both the advanced amateur and the professional, but who is charged. Prices for the body alone do not fall below € 2,800.
- PURCHASE: € 2,708 (ePRICE)
Sony Alpha a99 II
Another powerful full-frame prosumer is the new Sony Alpha a99 II, not a real SLR, but an SLT(semi-transparent mirror that divides the light between the AF sensor and the exposure meter). The concept of the flagship remains however unchanged.
Like the modern Sony, this also winks at the video amateur. The 42-megapixel 35mm sensor allows not only to take photos between 100 and 25.600 ISO (expandable up to 50-102.400 ISO) with gusts up to 12 fps.
The videos in 4K using the codec XAVC S (up to 100 Mbps) and may be registered with S-Log 2 range and S-log3. The body is tropicalized and the five-axis stabilization is on the sensor (up to 4.5 gain stops). Wi-Fi, NFC, fold-down display and electronic viewfinder complete this Sony Alpha a99 II that you start to find from us at prices around € 3,500 for the car body.
- PURCHASE: € 3,199 (ePRICE)
