Mirrorless vs DSLR: which should you buy

For most buyers, mirrorless is the better choice to start with. The bodies are smaller, the viewfinder shows the real exposure before you press the shutter, and video features are stronger. A DSLR still makes sense if you already own its lenses or find a good used body at a low price.

A DSLR has a mirror that flips up when you shoot and an optical viewfinder you look through directly. A mirrorless camera has no mirror, so the sensor sees the scene all the time and an electronic viewfinder or the screen shows it to you.

The differences that matter

Size and weight. With no mirror box, mirrorless bodies are usually smaller and lighter, and the lenses are often compact too. This matters on a full day of carrying.

Viewfinder. A DSLR's optical viewfinder is a direct view with no delay. A mirrorless electronic viewfinder shows the exposure and colour before you shoot, which helps beginners learn.

Video. Mirrorless cameras were designed with video in mind, and their screens and autofocus work while you record. DSLR video is often more limited.

Autofocus. Mirrorless autofocus covers more of the frame, and many models can track faces and eyes. This helps with moving subjects and with family photos.

Battery. DSLRs often last longer on a charge, because an optical viewfinder uses no power. Mirrorless bodies draw more, so carry a spare. Check each camera's rated number of shots.

Lenses. Our guides list lenses for Sony E, Canon RF, Nikon Z and Fujifilm X, which are all mirrorless mounts. New lens designs from the major camera makers are for these mounts, so the range keeps growing.

When a DSLR still makes sense

• You already own lenses for it, and an adapter route does not suit you.
• You find a good used body at a low price and you mostly shoot photos.
• You prefer a direct optical view for sports or wildlife and want long battery life.

When to choose mirrorless

• It is your first camera.
• You shoot video or vlog.
• You want a small body for travel.
• You want to buy into a lens system that keeps growing.

Before you buy

Decide your use, photos, video or both, and buy mirrorless unless you have a reason to buy a DSLR. Compare today's prices for each camera in the tiles above, and ask the shop what is in the box.