Best Mirrorless Cameras in India - Reviews and Comparison 2021

Before we throw a light on which type of lens is the best for different kind of shoots, let’s know the ABC of the lens in brief.

Focal length: This is the crucial feature of a lens and is measured in millimetres. Typically, lenses under 24mm are of ultra-wide-angle, 24-35mm are wide-angle, standard ones consist of 35mm to 70mm, and telephoto lenses are above that. Furthermore, macro lenses are considered to capture very close subjects and lie in the 35-100mm range.

Prime vs zoom. It is easy to differentiate between the two. A zoom lens is versatile and makes it easier to capture subjects without moving much. Whereas, the prime lens usually offers better optics and low-light performance for the same price.

Mount. Another, most important thing about the lens is that they are designed for specific brands and sensor sizes (full-frame, APS-C or Micro Four Thirds). Full-frame lenses for brands like Canon, Sony and Nikon can be used for their APS-C models. Similarly, you can use APS-C lenses on a full-frame camera, but the image will be cropped and zoomed in. All-in-all, you should buy lenses made specifically for your camera.

Choice of length mainly depends on what you want to shoot. For instance, a portrait photographer will go for a 50-85mm fixed (prime) lens as that will flatter a human face. Similarly, a product photographer may choose a macro lens, architectural and landscape photographers can get the best shot with wide-angle zoom or fixed lenses, and wildlife and sports shooters will be drawn to fast telephoto fixed or zoom lenses.

Tip: Mirrorless cameras do come with the kit lens, which is not that reliable. Majority of the kit lenses proves to be good for nothing in low light and have a mediocre image and build quality. Therefore, it is advised to keep at least one or two additional lenses.

Resolution refers to the amount of detail a camera can capture, and it is measured in megapixel. More pixels means more detail capturing and a larger picture free from any blurriness. Most of the professional cameras support over 16 million pixels or 20 million pixels for large-format.

The high-resolution viewfinder was reserved for DSLR for a long time. It was considered that this feature is essential only for serious photographers. However, as mirrorless camera grew in popularity, manufacturers worked on making the type bigger by incorporating higher-resolution panels and boosting their refresh rate.

Undoubtedly viewfinder of 5.76 million-dot is the best, but 3.69 million-dot units will also do a stellar job. Make sure if you want a quality picture then never settle for anything less than 2.36 million dots. Combination of 3.69 million dots and a magnification of around 0.76x or higher will give you the ideal result.

Sensor size plays a crucial role in selecting a mirrorless camera. Sensor size matters as it determines how much light will be used to create an image. A bigger sensor means more information is recorded, and therefore, better photos are produced. Further, a large size sensor helps in isolating a subject in focus while having the rest of the image blurred. However, the big sensor comes with their own demerit. A bigger camera sensor will take up more room in a camera. Also, it will need a bigger lens to cast an image over it.

There are different sensor size used by different brands in their mirrorless camera. Let’s take a look at different sensor size against 36x 24mm full-frame size.

APS-H: 27.9 x 18.6mm

APS-C: 23.6 x 15.6mm

APS-C (Canon): 22.2 x 14.8mm

Micro Four Thirds 4/3”: 17.3 x 13mm

Digital cameras have two types of sensor, i.e. CCD (Charge Coupled Device) sensors and

CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) sensors. Amongst these, CMOS is the sensor type which is primarily used in the mirrorless camera since they are cheaper and consume less power. It translates pixel measurements simultaneously and gives faster results.

One of the reasons behind the extending demand of the mirrorless camera is its lightweight. Carrying DSLR everywhere is not possible. On top of that, expensive telephoto zoom lenses are no less than a hassle. Speaking in numbers, DSLRs are almost twice as heavy as mirrorless cameras and approximately 40% bulkier!

Image stabilisation, as the name goes, is a feature that helps in reducing the blurriness associated with the motion of a camera by keeping the image stabilised. The feature is available in both inside the mirrorless camera and compatible lenses. However, sensor-based stabilisation is preferred over stabilisation in lense due to three reasons.

One, you get the benefit of stabilisation irrespective of the fact if the lens has this feature built into it or not. You can buy whichever lens you want.

Two, if you wish to use an older lense which doesn’t have image stabilisation technique, you can use that without second thoughts.

Third, the range of the mirrorless lens is still developing; hence, there are chances that the lenses you want may not have stabilisation built-in. But if your camera comes with the feature, you needn’t worry about having it in the lens.

Autofocus provides peace of mind to the camera users. It is the feature that ensures your chosen subject remains sharp within the photo. Due to this feature, you get a clear, crisp, perfectly sharp, focused image.

Hybrid autofocus is autofocus inspired feature, and it gives you the best of both world, i.e. contrast-detect AF and phase-detect AF. It is best to have this especially if you want to shoot a moving object and therefore if you are into sports and other action-based photography, look for hybrid AF.

Mirrorless cameras offer an LCD display or top plate LCD display. LCD works in the usual way for reviewing photos, displaying menu options, and serving as a live viewfinder. However, with top plate display, you can take a quick snapshot of the shooting settings with no need to look at the LCD or viewfinder. This feature is usually reserved for mid-range and high-end mirrorless cameras as it is a good-to-have feature and not an essential one.

Shutter speed plays a vital role due to two reasons, i.e. it is responsible for changing the brightness of an image and creating dramatic effects in it of motion blur and freezing.

The camera shutter is like a curtain in front of the camera sensor that opens up only when the camera fires and this is the reason shutter speed exists. When the camera fires, the shutter opens up and collects the light immediately. The duration for which camera shutter is open is known as shutter speed.

Its first effect is motion blur. A mirrorless camera with long shutter speed would mean blurred moving subjects. If you intend to create a sense of motion while keeping other things completely sharp, then you may choose the long shutter speed. On the contrary, freeze motion comes into picture when you use fast shutter speed because then you can eliminate motion from fast-moving objects, like cars driving past.

In conclusion, quick shutter speed freeze the action, whereas longer speed creates an effect of motion when you take pictures of moving objects.

Shutter speed is measured into fractions of a second. Mirrorless cameras can have shutter speeds of up to 1/4000th of a second, the most extended shutter speed on most such cameras is usually 30 seconds. For longer shutter speed, you can use external remote triggers.

Both DSLR and mirrorless camera are neck to neck when it comes to video making as both allow full HD and 4K shooting. However, mirrorless cameras offer video makers more flexibility with lenses as compared to DSLR. If you are a serious videographer and look for professional video capabilities, buy a mirrorless camera with high-quality format video.

ISO is one of the significant pillars of photography. Simply putting, ISO is camera setting that brightens or darkens a photo. As the ISO number increases, a picture gets brighter. Therefore, ISO helps in capturing images in darker environments or gives more flexibility regarding aperture and shutter speed settings. Mirrorless camera typically has an ISO range between 100 (low sensitivity) and 12,800 or greater (high sensitivity).

Thanks to the increasing demand for a mirrorless camera, manufacturers have enhanced the wireless connectivity capabilities of the mirrorless cameras, and they are genuinely incredible. Despite having Wi-Fi, many cameras have a partner app for either iOS or Android, which lets you control the camera from a smart device. This is not it; you can even transfer images directly to your smartphone from the camera, or the social media sites. 

With NFC, Near Field Communication, another feather has been added into the cap of the mirrorless camera as you can simply tap-to-connect or share photos. 

DSLR is the king of the camera if we talk about battery life. It can take more than a thousand shots at a single charge. For the same number of pictures, the mirrorless camera needs three batteries. Mirrorless cameras consume so much battery due to the massive power demand from the EVF. And this one area needs significant improvement from manufacturers as per the tech experts.

Ergonomics is often overlooked while buying a camera. However, it is not an element to be neglected. A mirrorless camera must fit into your hand comfortably and should not be too heavy to carry it around. It should be easy to learn, offer easy accessibility to the commonly used features, and menus should be simply structured.

There are mirrorless cameras available in the market which is suitable for both beginner and professionals. What matters is the features of the camera. For example, if you travel a lot and want your camera to be lightweight and compact, buy mirrorless. If you need a more comprehensive selection of lenses than DSLR is a better option.

If you shoot in low light and image size and quality is essential to you, choose a mirrorless camera with either an APS-C or full-frame sensor. 

The question here is not about buying a mirrorless camera but buying a camera at all.

If your budget is anywhere between Rs. 20,000 to 25,000, think that you really need a standalone camera. If you do need one, then buy a camera that has features which your smartphone camera doesn’t have such as waterproofing, zoom lens. If you can spend a little more but at the same time want to stick with something simple, get an advanced compact camera with a 1-inch-type sensor.

If you require a little more flexibility or control, an entry-level mirrorless camera is an excellent point of starting. In fact, entry-level consumer mirrorless cameras are also the first choice of those who are using an entry-level DSLR and are looking for interchangeable-lens feature and need something lighter and smaller. 

Assuming that you have reached a crossroads in your photography with DSLR, we would suggest looking for a mirrorless camera that is, of course, compact and lightweight. Also, get a mirrorless camera that helps you further grow as a photographer which is possible if the camera has more features than your current DSLR. Therefore, your camera should include an electronic viewfinder to aid with composition, a hot shoe for extra accessories, and it should offer the image quality which is at least on par with your DSLR, if not better than that.

Mirrorless camera is a compact camera which has interchangeable lenses due to which it is also known as Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Cameras (MILC). Mirrorless cameras use digital imaging sensor rather than a movable mirror and pentaprism to show the digital preview of what lens is seeing to the electronic viewfinder (EVF).

Mirrorless cameras are compact, lighter, and helps in better video making. However, they come at the cost of access to fewer lenses and accessories.

Yes. The quality of sensors found in mirrorless cameras is good. They can be used for astrophotography and night photography since they have full-frame sensors which capture more light. Also, the sensors have a better ISO range.

Yes. In fact, lately, professionals have been switching from DSLR to the mirrorless camera for the benefits it offers such as lightweight, compact, silent operation, better autofocus and video quality.

The average battery life of a mirrorless camera is 300 shots.

Mirrorless cameras come with such an electronic viewfinder, which are useful when shooting video in bright light. Another feature of mirrorless cameras is that they have live-view-only nature leading to better autofocus systems and eventually better videos. Some of the best video cameras in the market are mirrorless and it has more to do with the brand’s experience in making video cameras as it does with the format itself.

That is possible most of the time, but you will need an adapter. For example, you can adapt Canon EF-mount DSLR lenses to Canon RF and EF-M mount mirrorless camera with the help of a first-party adapter. Similarly, Nikon F-mount DSLR lenses can be used for Nikon Z-mount mirrorless bodies via Nikon’s FTZ adapter. You can also use one brand’s DSLR camera lens on another brand’s mirrorless camera. Let’s say. You can attach Canon and Nikon lenses to the likes of Micro Four Thirds mirrorless cameras using a third-party adapter. However, one thing is to be noted that the lenses will not give the same result as they do on their native systems.

Don’t use your shirt or top to clear camera lens the way you do for your spectacles. They are already soaked up in dirt and sweat and will only transfer that gunk onto your lens? Also, it can damage the sensitive optical coatings. Moreover, the fabric can even scratch the glass. Likewise, avoid using napkins, paper towels, and any paper product which is not made for optical glass. Use lens tissue, microfibre cloth or brush specially made for lense cleaning purpose.

Use camera shoulder strap: You know the amount of damage you will have to bear if your camera falls out of the hand. However firm grip you may have on your mirrorless camera, it is best to use the shoulder strap that comes along with the camera. It will also keep your camera safe in areas prone to theft.

Keep it capped: When not using the camera, keep the front and rear caps on your lenses. Also, use body cap on your camera when no lens is attached. 

The sensor needs protection too: Not just lens but sensors are also sensitive to dust, mud and debris. The sensor will get dirty if you don’t protect it. The best way to keep a sensor secured is to keep a lens mounted to the camera. If the lens is causing hindrance in packing the camera, then use the body cap at the time of storing the camera to keep the sensor protected. Moreover, when you need to change a lens on the fly, ensure that the opening of the camera is facing downwards as that will reduce the chances of dirt, debris, and moisture to settle on the sensor.

Charge the camera before the shoot: Mirrorless cameras are not that famous for battery life anyway, therefore charging them before a shoot more recommended. Even when you don’t use your camera extensively, the batteries will still lose their charge over time. If you run out of battery, it won’t kill your camera, but it can certainly ruin important moments. 

Bag is important: If you want to take care of your mirrorless camera on the wholesome level, keep it in the bag. Your camera bag can’t be any backpack. It has to be appropriately cushioned, separating the camera’s body from the lenses, making sure each piece of gear has its own compartment.

Canon EOS M50 is the best mirrorless camera overall. It gives excellent performance and has a great design in a compact system. It is a go-to camera for photographers looking for a one-size-fits-all.

It might be an entry-level camera but has most of the features that would help you shoot even pro-level pictures such as electronic viewfinder, fully articulating touchscreen, a 24MP APS-C sensor and single control dial. If you leave the battery life, it has everything to offer-4K/24p video capture (with a 1.7x crop), exceptional wireless connectivity via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and NFC, and Digic 8 processor.

It comes with quick and decisive autofocus. The fully articulating LCD lets you ‘shoot from the hip’ and silent mode of the electronic shutter let you click pictures without making any annoying beeps.

EOS M50 is first Canon’s M-series camera that has Dual Pixel AF system. You can shoot continuously at up to 10 fps with single AF and 7.4 fps with continuous AF. M50 is not a professional camera; however, the image quality it offers is no less than provided by pro cameras. On a more positive note, Canon EOS M50 is a camera that is suitable for one and all.

If you want head turner design, then Fujifilm X-T100 has it. Its well-built body consists of faux leather and a screw-on grip. The camera’s touchscreen LCD cannot be rotated, but it can both tilt up and down and flip out to the side 180 degrees. The OLED viewfinder does its job just fine. Besides, it has three customisable control dials, including one defaulting to changing Film Simulation mode. It offers superb image quality with vibrant colour and a lot of details.

The autofocus feature is up to the mark when using single AF; however, the camera just can’t keep a moving subject in focus. The battery life is more than average, considering the price of the camera.

Panasonic LUMIX G9 has taken a clear shot at pro still market by being the top tier stills-oriented camera. We love the ergonomics as it is a lightweight camera with a magnesium alloy body. Plus, it is weather-sealed and has got a large & comfortable grip which let you access a ton of control with one hand and without compromising your hold on the body.

LUMIX G9 is much more than its body. Its top plate LCD is something you won’t find on any other Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera. Also, it comes with AF joystick; however, you can’t move AF points diagonally. Speaking of its 0.83x OLED electronic viewfinder, all we can say is that it is immersive and beautiful. The G9 also offers excellent connectivity via dual high-speed SD card slots and USB 3.1 port.

Coming to autofocus, G9 can maintain focus at its top burst rate of 20 fps smoothly. However, the 20 fps burst mode is limited to 50 shots, then you can go for 100 of frames with the 9 fps burst speed. AF-C performance at 9 fps is quite impressive. Despite being a still oriented camera, it mesmerised us with its video quality.

APS-C has the lion’s share when it comes to the mirrorless camera as compared to full-frame or medium-format cameras. Sony Alpha ILCE-6400L is proof of it. Sony's A6400 lie between brands A6300 and A6500 model and therefore, many of its features match the two.

A6400 isn’t much different from its elder and younger sibling in appearance. It has a round-off hand grip which is perfect for small hands. The slide-out flap on the left side has a Micro-USB port, Micro-HDMI port, and a 3.5mm microphone input. Its command dial doubles have a four-way navigation pad. It has decent EVF with a resolution of 2.3 million dots, and you can run it at either 60fps or 120fps.

3 inch LCD screen is a new addition, but the touch panel remains the same with 921K dot resolution. However, it can now flip-up 180 degrees, and not just being able to tilt up or down like on the previous models.

Alpha ILCE-6400L comes with a 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, and contrast-detection autofocus points. Eighty-four per cent of the sensor area is covered by focus point due to which you are easily able to track your subject. It has an expandable ISO range from 100-32,000 to 1,02,400.

The AI-based real-time eye AF and subject tracking let you detect and track a subject’s face and eyes, if visible with even half-pressed shutter button. You can shoot 4K video without any pixel binning.

Last but not least, A6400 has Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for easy transfer of images. The NFC feature makes the pairing process with compatible Android phones quicker.

X-T30 is the little brother of the great X-T3. The compact body offers impressive 26MP sensor, oversampled 4K video and the direct controls. Had there been in-body stabilisation, it would have been a complete package. Both raw and JPEG quality is excellent if we speak of colour. Moreover, the sensor’s low noise levels make it a great option for low light shooting. Just like images, video quality is top-notch, with both DCI and UHD capture. The video deserves attention in terms of controls as well. In terms of resolution APS-C sensor, X-T30 comes second in the market (Canon EOS M6 Mark II is first).

Fujifilm X-T30 is clearly a great combination of travel-friendly size and impressive performance.

Nikon Z50 is one of the best in the mirrorless camera segment. It has borrowed the excellent design and overall performance from Z6 and features 21-megapixel APS-C back-illuminated CMOS sensor. We have received impressive results from Z50 in terms of JPEG files. With a back-illuminated, 20.9MP APS-C CMOS sensor and Expeed 6 image processor, it gives perfect shots. It might lack in terms of peak output resolution but it certainly makes up in terms of overall performance. The super accurately working hybrid autofocus system features a 209-point module. The AF tracking system also works smoothly, even in minute contrast difference situations. In fact, its autofocus system is far smoother than both Sony a6400, and Fujifilm X-T30’s.

The camera is no less when it comes to shooting videos as it offers 4K and 1080p videos at up to 30fps and 120fps respectively. The LCD size of 3.2-inch provides 100 per cent frame coverage. Furthermore, it provides 320 shots per charge as per CIPA standard, including video shooting of about 30 minutes.

All-in-all, Z50 is a capable and comfortable mirrorless camera to use, for a wide range of photography.

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III is easy to handle mirrorless camera with twin dials, customisable buttons, and comprehensive on-screen control panels. And the sculpted grip makes it all the easier to work with everything. We like the Advanced Photography mode as that brings all the camera’s smarter shooting modes together. The Auto mode might prove to be beginner’s favourite since it is good enough at selecting an appropriate scene mode.

The JPEG image quality is rather good, although the sharpening is a little heavy-handed. We have no second thoughts about the underlying raw performance as well since it is equally good. Unfortunately, the autofocus feature of the camera is less dependable.

OM-D E-M10 Mark III has impressive video quality, especially in 4K mode. And when combined with stabilisation feature, it means it’s a pretty good mirrorless camera to play around with. If you are a developing photographer, you have plenty of room to grow with this Olympus model. Checkout reviews and comparison of best tripods, best webcams, best home security camera, best action camera, best DSLR camera for beginners in India.