Best dslr cameras for photography: The best DSLR in 2023

Aug 21, 2023 alexxlab

Nikon D850 Review | Digital Camera World

Digital Camera World Verdict

The D850 looks like the perfect do-it-all DSLR for professional photographers, but at this price it could appeal to a large number of ambitious amateurs too. It does have a couple of limitations, but overall its combination of resolution, continuous shooting speed and 4K full frame video is just jaw-droppingly good.

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Cons

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Lower buffer capacity at 9fps
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Needs fast memory cards
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Pedestrian live view AF

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Introduction

For a long time, professional photographers have faced a blunt choice. You can get a camera with great resolution, like the Nikon D810, Canon EOS 5DS or Sony A7R II, but no real speed, or you can get a high-speed specialist like the Nikon D5, EOS-1D X II or Sony A9, but you then have to compromise on resolution. Maybe you even end up having to buy one of each! We haven’t forgotten the Sony A99 II, but Sony’s Alpha SLT system has yet to establish itself as a viable, forward-looking proposition for pro photographers.

Once, you had to choose between resolution and speed, but the Nikon D850 offers both.

This is why the new Nikon D850 is such a big deal. It doesn’t just raise the bar for resolution, it delivers a continuous shooting speed to rival a dedicated sports camera. At last, this is a professional DSLR that really can do anything. What’s more, this blend of speed and resolution is just one facet of a camera that could be Nikon’s most important new model for years.

Nikon D850 at Amazon for $2,496.95

Nikon has a number of photography genres in mind with the D850, including nature and landscapes, weddings, fashion and sport. In fact, this camera’s abilities are so wide-ranging that it could probably do anything, and it’s only the contrast-based autofocus in live view mode that stops it being one of the best 4K cameras for filmmaking too.

Features

So let’s look at these specifications properly. First, there’s the new sensor, which has an effective resolution of 45.7MP – 25% more than the ground-breaking Nikon D810.

The D850’s sensor has been designed with no anti-aliasing filter so that it can capture the finest possible detail. This is going to place heavy demands on both your lenses and your technique, as we’ll see later.

With 45.7million pixels, the D850 has the second-highest resolution of any full-frame DSLR and 9,000 more pixels than the existing D810

And then there’s the maximum continuous shooting speed of 9fps at full resolution, and with a buffer capacity of 51 uncompressed 14-bit Raw files. That is quite amazing, although here there are a couple of caveats.

The first is that you need the optional MB-D18 Multi-Power Battery Pack and EN-EL18B battery (as used in the Nikon D5) to achieve this speed. Without the grip, the camera can only shoot at 7fps – though that’s still impressive for a camera that has this level of resolution.

The second is that the quoted raw buffer capacity is also a ‘best-case’ figure at 7fps (not 9fps) and with the right memory cards.

The other headline spec is the D850’s 7fps continuous shooting speed, which goes up to an amazing 9fps with the optional MB-D18 battery grip shown here

The D850 comes with two very fast card slots – one for XQD cards, one for UHS-II SD cards – and you’ll need fast cards to go with them if you want to get anywhere near the quoted buffer capacity. And if you do get the MB-D18 grip and EN-EL18B battery for 9fps shooting, you won’t get the same Raw buffer capacity – see the Performance section for more on this.

The D850 comes with two fast memory card slots – one XQD and one UHS-II SD slot

And while the D850 does achieve an extraordinary blend of resolution and speed, it can’t quite carry this through into a high ISO range. The new sensor has a back-illuminated design and gapless on-chip microlenses, but inevitably the photosites are smaller than the Nikon D5’s, for example, and the ISO range is lower.

It’s still pretty good, going from ISO 64-25,600 is standard mode, and offering ISO 32-102,400 in expanded mode – and Nikon has used its powerful EXPEED 5 processor to help with noise control – but you wouldn’t choose this over a camera like the D5 for extreme low-light photography.

This is Nikon’s Multi-CAM 20K AF sensor, with 153 AF points, including 99 cross-type

The Multi-CAM 20K AF sensor is powerful but its coverage does not extend to the edges of the frame – but you can always switch to Live View, and although this still uses relatively slow contrast autofocus, the new tilting touch-screen display is now much more useful. You can set it up for touch focus and even touch shutter operation, and a new Pinpoint AF mode helps you identify tiny targets, which is important given this camera’s level of resolution.

The Live View mode has another trick – a silent photography mode where the D850 switches to its electronic shutter and can shoot without making any noise at all. What’s more, because there’s no mirror or shutter movement, there’s less risk of mechanically-induced blur. You can shoot at up to 6fps at full resolution in this mode – or at an amazing 30fps at a reduced resolution of 8 megapixels.

This is perfect for sports where cameras are usually banned at key moments, for theatrical performances and weddings, where a clattering shutter would just spoil the moment.

This little black box is Nikon’s EXPEED 5 processor, which helps the D850 capture 45.7-megapixel images at up to 9 frames per second

We also need to talk about video. The D850 shoots 4K UHD video, as we all expected it would, but it uses the full sensor width to do so. This means that your lens focal lengths stay the same and you no longer have to juggle with irritating crop factors.

As well as regular 4K video, the D850 can capture and process 4K time-lapse movies in-camera, or stunning 8K time-lapse movies with silent interval timer shooting, though you will have to use external software to combine 8K frames into a movie.

There’s more, including an in-camera multiple exposure overlay mode for creating multi-image composites of moving subjects, a new 1:1 image ratio for square shots and in-camera raw batch processing, but we especially need to mention the battery life.

The D850 is designed for tough, professional use, with a full set of dust and moisture seals

The D850 uses the same EN-EL15a battery found in other high-end Nikons, but where you’d expect the D850 to be a power-hungry ogre, it’s actually extremely frugal. According to Nikon, it will eke out 1,840 shots on a single charge, and that is truly impressive.

The D850 is not as big and heavy as a professional sports camera like the Nikon D5 or Canon EOS-1D X II, but it’s still a pretty hefty camera – especially when fitted with one of Nikon’s constant aperture professional zooms like the 24-70mm f/2.8.

But the controls are classic Nikon, so if you’ve already used one of Nikon’s pro DSLRs, you could pick this one up and start shooting straight away. If you’re swapping from Canon or another brand it might take a little longer to get to grips with Nikon’s sometimes idiosyncratic control layout.

Apart from a couple of controls, the D850’s layout will be instantly familiar to anyone who’s used a high-end Nikon DSLR

It’s not immediately obvious when looking through the viewfinder that this is Nikon’s largest viewfinder yet (it is), but it is big, bright and clear and a reminder that even in an market where mirrorless cameras are gaining ground, there’s still a lot to be said for a classic optical viewfinder.

There is obviously some blackout during high-speed continuous shooting, but it doesn’t stop you keeping fast-moving subjects in the frame and it doesn’t have the stuttery lag of many electronic viewfinders at high frame rates.

Autofocus is fast and positive, though the speed of acquisition will also depend on the lens you’re using and its autofocus actuators. The small thumbstick on the back of the camera is in the perfect position to find it by ‘feel’ so that you don’t have to take your eye from the viewfinder to change the focus point.

You can use this small thumbstick to change the active AF point, and just above is an AF-ON button for sports specialists

The Live View mode is activated by a button on the back, with a lever for switching between stills mode and video. Like other Nikon DSLRs, the D850 uses regular contrast autofocus, which is sluggish compared to Canon’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF and Sony’s hybrid AF systems, though it does feel a little quicker in this camera than we’re used to with Nikon DSLRs. It’s possible the D850’s powerful EXPEED 5 processor has something to do with this.

The high-resolution rear screen has a handy tilting mechanism and both touch-AF and touch-shutter options

The rear screen’s high resolution creates a super-sharp image for Live View photography and the touch-focus option is simple and intuitive to use. You can also set the camera to touch-shutter mode so that it takes a picture as soon as focus is achieved, though most photographers would probably prefer to separate the focus and shutter actions so that they have a moment to check the camera has acquired focus successfully.

The tilting display is another bonus, and while you wouldn’t use the D850’s Live View mode for fast-moving subjects, it’s a really pleasant tool for more considered and precise tripod-mounted photography.

Need to shoot in complete silence? That’s no problem for the D850 – it can even do it at 6 frames per second at full resolution, or 30fps capturing 8MP images

If you’re planning on doing a lot of action photography or extended portrait format sessions, the MB-D18 grip would be a very smart investment. It takes the D850 up to the size and bulk of a Nikon D5 or EOS-1D X II, but does offer faster continuous shooting and greatly extended battery life (with Nikon’s EN-EL18b battery) as well as a handy set of duplicate controls for vertical shooting. It fits on very neatly, but doesn’t quite offer the ‘seamless’ design of the D5.

You get a choice of aspect ratios too, including full frame (FX), 1.2x crop mode, DX format, 5:4 or a new 1:1 (square) mode

The D850 has a number of headline features, but its resolution is almost certainly at the top of the list – and here there’s both good and bad news.

The good news is that this camera is capable of capturing spectacular levels of detail. The bad news is that you’re going to have to work pretty hard to achieve it – and that’s because this camera’s resolving power is so high that any lens softness, focus error, or camera movement is going to be obvious. If you’re a pixel-peeper you’re in for a tough time because this camera will highlight the tiniest error in your technique – and this is a camera that’s going to attract pixel-peepers.

Wedding photographers will love the D850’s colour rendition and resolution

It also highlights the fact that depth of field is not a fixed and definite thing. In reality, there is only ever one plane of sharp focus in a picture, regardless of lens aperture, and ‘depth of field’ is simply an acceptable level of sharpness behind and in front of this plane which you can increase with smaller apertures. With the D850, perfectly focused detail is so sharp that any drop-off in sharpness becomes visible quite quickly.

If you want to exploit what this camera can achieve, you might need to stop thinking about depth of field in the way you have done and start thinking about what key element of the scene you need to be exactly in focus.

See the tiny bee in the centre of this picture? We’ve blown it up approximately 8x so that you can see the detail the D850 has captured – and that was a hastily-grabbed handheld shot.

As part of our lab tests, we also test resolution, and the news here is that the D850 is ‘off the scale’ – it out-resolves our test chart in a way that we’ve only ever seen before from 50-megapixel medium format cameras (and the Canon EOS 5DS). If you’re wondering whether the D850 can out-resolve the mighty D810, you have your answer – yes it can. The difference isn’t large, but it’s visible.

The colour rendition is exactly what we’ve come to expect from Nikon DSLRs – rich but natural-looking. The provision of three different Auto white balance options might seem a little unnecessary but it could prove useful to photographers always shooting in a specific set of conditions.

At high ISOs fine details do start to smooth over a little in JPEG images, but most pros we’ve spoken to are impressed by the low noise levels from such a high resolution camera

The D850’s JPEGs do start to smooth over and show a little more noise at higher ISO settings, but it’s very easy to fall into the trap of judging these images at 100% magnification on-screen and overlook the fact that these are huge files that will never be examined this closely under normal viewing conditions. The D850 is not designed as a low-light specialist, but the image quality holds up well when you do need to increase the ISO.

The autofocus system is Nikon’s best yet, and also found in the D5 and D500. We haven’t yet had a chance to try it out in anger on a high-speed action subject, but if it works as well as it does on the other two models it’s unlikely to disappoint. However, the exposure area doesn’t extend to the edges of the frame by any means, so subjects which are way off-centre could be trickier.

Silent shutter mode will let wedding pros shoot key moments without disturbing either the subjects or the ceremony

You can switch to Live View, of course, but Nikon still uses a simple contrast AF system which is certainly precise, but also slow. The Live View mode is probably best kept for tripod shots.

Technically, you don’t need any special memory cards to make use of the D850’s amazing resolution, but if you want to exploit its speed as well you will almost certainly need to upgrade your stock of cards.

Image 1 of 8

In continuous shooting mode, the D850 can rattle off frames at an impressive speed.

Achieving the 7/9fps frame rate is not the problem, it’s how long you can sustain it that’s the issue. We could not get the recommended 64GB Sony QXD card (maximum write speed 440MB/s) so we tried our fastest Sony UHS-II SD card, write speed of 299MB/s, and that started to slow down after 30 RAW shots at 7fps.

But we also tried a Lexar Professional 440MB/s XQD card and that made a big difference, coming within a whisker of Nikon’s own claims for raw buffer capacity – but this is at 7fps.

Shooting at 9fps changes things considerably. As you’d expect, the rate of data capture is much faster, and even the fastest memory cards can’t keep up. In our tests with the fast Lexar XQD card we achieved around half the raw buffer capacity at 7fps – specifically, 23 14-bit uncompressed raw files, the same number of lossless compressed raws and 30 14-bit compressed raw files.

It’s a reminder that you seldom get something for nothing, and that the D850’s spectacular combination of resolution and speed has only be achieved by driving image processing and memory card tech to its very limits.

This is the memory card Nikon recommends – for our tests we managed to get a Lexar XQD card with a 440MB/s write speed, and this is the kind of performance you’ll need for shooting raw files in long bursts.

1840 shots on this one EN-EL15a battery? That’s what Nikon says.

To put this in perspective, though, it’s amazing that a 45.7MP camera can capture images at 9fps in the first place, without carping about how many 14-bit Raws it can capture before slowing down – and you can always drop back to 7fps or shoot JPEGs or 12-bit Raws instead.

The D850’s mechanical performance is terrific, right from its autofocus through to its continuous shooting speed and buffer capacity. Its image quality is even more impressive, building on the reputation of the D800 and D810 for amazing resolving power and overall image quality.

With a camera this complex and this capable it could take weeks to fully understand its capabilities and strengths, but in the time we’ve been able to spend with it so far, we’re already very impressed.

Nikon D850 specifications

Sensor 45.7MP FX-format CMOS (35.9 x 23.9mm)

Focal length conversion 1x

Memory 1x XQD, 1x SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II)

Viewfinder Optical pentaprism, 100% coverage

Max video resolution 4K UHD 3840 x 2160 at 30/25/24p

ISO range 64-25,600, expandable to 32-102,400

Autofocus points 153-point phase-detection AF, 99 cross-type

Max Burst rate 7fps (9fps with grip)

Screen Tilting 3. 2-inch touchscreen, 2,359k dots

Shutter speeds 1/8000 sec to 30 sec, bulb, time

Weight 1,005g (body only, with battery and memory card)

Dimensions 146 x 124 x 78.5mm

Power supply EN-EL15a lithium-ion battery (supplied)

Nikon D850 verdict

The Nikon D850 delivers all the image quality, handling and features we love in the D810 and then some. Its ability to capture the finest detail is exceptional and its continuous shooting speed is remarkable for a camera with this resolution.

One of the Nikon D850’s key strengths is the huge range of pro and specialist lenses available

The D850 is aimed at an advanced amateur and professional readership which will undoubtedly look at other options too, of course. It’s closest rival from the Canon stable is the EOS 5D Mark IV, but the D850 outclasses the Canon for resolution, continuous shooting speed and – crucially – full-frame 4K video.

The EOS 5DS is in the running too, of course, but only for resolution. Sony’s A7 and A9 cameras are still split according to resolution (A7R II) or speed (A9), and although Sony’s A99 II SLT (Single Lens Translucent) model matches the D850’s combination of speed and resolution, it doesn’t have the system backup nor, perhaps, the Nikon system’s long term future. For now, the D850 really does look to be in a class of its own.

Read more
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Nikon D850 vs D810

Nikon D850 vs D750

The best Nikon lenses

The best professionals cameras

Nikon D850: Price Comparison

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The sister print publication to this website, Digital Camera Magazine is Britain’s best-selling photography publication – and it can also be purchased outside the United Kingdom as Digital Camera World.

Digital Camera Magazine is packed with more expert advice and more inspirational images than any other title, with the sole aim of helping you become a better photographer. Every issue we also bring you a selection of great gifts which are designed to help you get more from your photography – everything from tips cards and cheat sheets to free software and bookazines.

In addition to inspirational images, interviews, projects, mini tests and tutorials, each issue is packed with news, reviews and comparisons, as well as photographer vs photographer shootouts and head-to-head challenges using the best photo editing software.

The magazine is captained by Editor Niall Hampton, with Technique Editor Alistair Campbell adding his own expertise.

Best DSLR Cameras in 2023

Once upon a time, DSLRs were the be-all and end-all of the digital camera world. These days, mirrorless cameras are the dominant force, with most major camera brands forgoing the mirror in their flagship models.

Still, there’s a lot to love about DSLRs, and, if you prefer that old-school SLR feel, rather than having a little digital screen in your viewfinder, then there’s no substitute. You can potentially save some cash, too, with budget DSLR options now being cheaper than ever before.

DSLR stands for digital single-lens reflex, and these cameras have removable lenses so that different optics can be attached and provide a different view of the world. This potential variety allows you to start small and build up to more varied, sharper, and desirable featured lenses as you go along.

So, whether you’re a complete beginner, are looking to upgrade, know plenty about cameras already, or are considering a more professional option – this is where we round up the best DSLR cameras available to buy.

Pocket-lint

Nikon D850

1. Best overall

$2496.95 $2996.95 Save $500

Arguably, this is one of the best DSLRs ever made, combining build quality, image quality and battery life to satisfy the most demanding of photographers.

Pros

High-resolution 45.7-megapixel sensor
Incredible battery life
Superb dynamic range

Cons

Autofocus is slow in live view mode
On the pricey side

$2497 at Amazon $2496.95 at B&H Photo

Equipped with a monstrous 45.7-megapixel sensor, the Nikon D850 pushed the boundaries of image resolution upon its initial release. In the right hands and with good quality glass, this camera is capable of producing crisp and highly detailed images. The dynamic range is almost unreal, too.

Little changes to the D850’s body compared to its predecessor’s also transform the user experience. Illuminated buttons, silent shutter mode, deeper grip and class-leading battery life all add up to something quite special.

We found that its only real shortcoming is that the live view autofocus speed isn’t as capable as Canon’s equivalent.

Pocket-lint

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

2. Full-frame all-rounder

$2499 $2699 Save $200

It’s been around for a good while now, but this versatile beast is still hard to beat.

Pros

Fantastic autofocus system
Solid image quality
Dual Pixel RAW re-focus

Cons

No flip-out screen
4K video has limited file types

See at Amazon $2499.99 at Best Buy $2499 at B&H Photo

The 5D Mark IV is a deft balance between resolution, image quality, autofocus ability and control, seeing it stand head and shoulders above its predecessor and much of the competition, too.

It’s not cheap by any means but it’s got every base covered, and the 30-megapixel sensor is not only awesome in good light, but it aces low-light conditions, as well.

In the present day, the lack of a flip screen feels very old-fashioned, and the 4K video is no longer something that gives it the wow factor. Canon’s own mirrorless offerings now give us up to 8K video, for instance.

For photographers preferring an SLR system though, the 5D Mark IV still has a lot to offer, especially when paired with some of Canon’s industry-leading glass.

Pocket-lint

Canon EOS 2000D / Rebel T7

3. Budget beauty

Those looking for a cheap way to upgrade from a smartphone camera will be pleasantly surprised by the image quality at such a price point.

Pros

Fantastic value for money
Wi-Fi and NFC functionality

Cons

No flip or touchscreen
Basic feature set

See at Amazon See at Best Buy See at B&H Photo

We think the Canon 2000D could be the perfect option for those looking to upgrade from a smartphone camera to a DSLR platform. It’s cheap and cheerful, and its Wi-Fi functionality means you can transfer photos straight to a smartphone for editing and sharing.

You’ll get the benefit of interchangeable lenses, as well as a far larger sensor, which means better low-light performance and real bokeh that doesn’t rely on AI trickery to cut out the subject.

Buying into the Canon lens system means you can take the lenses with you when you upgrade, which is probably inevitable, as the feature set is fairly limited on this entry-level body.

Pocket-lint

Nikon D500

4. Pocket rocket

One of the most advanced, feature-rich APS-C bodies we’ve tested. It comes at a nice price point and offers a compact shape, too.

Pros

Quick shooting with a large buffer
Smaller and more manageable body size
Very good autofocus

Cons

High ISO features aren’t actually usable
Limited angles on the flip screen

See at Amazon $2669.95 at B&H Photo

The Nikon D500 takes a lot of features from its larger sibling, the D5, but brings them to the APS-C sensor and a much more compact body. This makes it one of the most advanced and feature-rich APS-C bodies we’ve come across.

This translates into a whole heap of good things. The 21-megapixel sensor is backed up with the speedy Expeed 5 processing engine and can capture shots up to an extended sensitivity of ISO 1,640,000. Yup, that’s six figures. Although, in our testing, we don’t think you’re likely to want to go anywhere near that high.

What you get here is a pro-level DSLR, in a small package and at a much more stomachable price. Who wouldn’t love that?

Pocket-lint

Canon EOS 90D

5. Mid-range master

It might look a lot like its predecessor, but the EOS 90D is an altogether different beast underneath, packing 45 point autofocus and a 32.5 megapixel sensor.

Pros

Highly capable autofocus
High resolution
4K video recording

Cons

Single SD card slot
No in-body stabilisation

$1199 at Amazon $1199.99 at Best Buy $1199 at B&H Photo

If you’re looking for an all-rounder when it comes to both still images and movie capture, then the 90D is still one of the best pure DSLRs to cater to such a crowd.

Where the 90D really excels is with its autofocus system. The Dual Pixel AF system – which uses on-sensor phase-detection via live view and a different phase-detection system through the viewfinder – is super-fast, whether you’re looking through the viewfinder or using the rear screen to compose your shots.

Elsewhere, the 90D ups the viewfinder ante with a what-you-see-is-what-you-get 100% field-of-view – something cheaper DSLR cameras often lack – while its Vari-Angle touchscreen remains one of its strong points, especially in a competitive world against mirrorless cameras.

How to choose a DSLR camera

There is a wide range of DSLRs on the market, designed for everyone from casual holiday snappers to seasoned professionals. That means it can be extremely hard to narrow down which one is right for you. Here are a few things worth thinking about before you decide on a camera.

What will you be using the camera for?

This will be the big deciding factor for most people, as different cameras are tailored toward different shooting styles. Some cameras offer extremely high burst rates for shooting sports, whereas others will give you a silent shooting mode to ensure that your shutter click doesn’t scare away any wildlife.

Think about how you will mainly be using the camera, and the specs that you should care about will quickly become apparent.

Which lenses will work?

For Canon, it’s EF-mount (including EF-S), for Nikon it’s F-mount, for Pentax it’s K-mount. Sony has discontinued its line in favour of its mirrorless offerings. There are some additions and exceptions, but those are the current main three. Don’t fall into the trap of buying the wrong lenses just because the brand names match up.

What’s the deal with sensor size?

Entry and mid-level cameras typically have what’s called an APS-C size sensor. Some pro-spec cameras have full-frame sensors that, because they’re physically larger, need specific (typically pricier and more advanced) lenses that are capable of covering these larger dimensions.

A full-frame camera collects more light and this will give you better low-light performance and shallower depth of field in your shots. Unfortunately, they’re typically a lot more expensive than their APS-C counterparts and the same goes for the lenses too. So if budget is a concern, we’d recommend sticking with APS-C.

Which focal-length lens should I buy?

There are plenty of things to consider with lenses and this all depends on the type of photography you are planning on doing. If it’s all about portraits you’ll want something around the 50mm or 75mm mark. If you are trying to snap that lion on the Savannah and don’t want to get eaten then you’ll want something with a long zoom, like 300mm or greater.

DSLR vs mirrorless – which is best?

This all depends on what type of shooter you are. If you mainly care about video, then the mirrorless options offer far more for your money and you should certainly consider them before committing to a DSLR.

If you’re on a tight budget, you can typically find entry-level DSLRs for cheaper than their mirrorless equivalents. This will leave you with more to spend on lenses, arguably the best investment in the photographic world.

If you’re an old-school film shooter and can’t resist the tactile sound of the mirror flipping away, then there really is no alternative. Luckily, there are still loads of great options – some of which you can explore in our other camera buyer’s guides.

Rating of the TOP 10 best SLR cameras for 2023

For photographers who are just starting to learn this art, amateurs and professionals, for those who have completed courses and for self-taught people, a SLR camera is useful, which will help you take high-quality pictures and shoot videos . Such a camera will be useful both for experimenters who love to “play” with manual settings, and for photo artists. We have prepared a rating consisting of the 10 best DSLR options. The main “superpowers”, as well as the disadvantages of each device, we examined in this review article.

1.CANON EOS 5D Mark IV Body

CANON EOS 5D Mark IV Body’s stunning 30.4 megapixel resolution and 4K video recording will please the demanding owner : a chic degree of detail is guaranteed. The camera processes photos quickly, due to the technique and DIGIC 6+, and provides ultra-precise focusing properties due to double pixels.

Important: fast connection to a smartphone or laptop is realized thanks to the wireless module.

Pros:

Track and indicate the place where the image was taken using the built-in GPS module in the camera.
Increased maximum ISO to 32,000 for high-quality shooting in any light.
Gorgeous picture quality is provided by a correction function that automatically compensates for distortion.
Automatically detects color temperature, preserves warm colors under artificial daylight lighting: the camera accurately captures the atmosphere of the scene. If neutral shades are needed in a room that is lit by lamps that give yellowness, the camera automatically removes excess warm colors.
Three-mode sharpening allows you not to process the created photo frame in the editor (for example, Adobe Photoshop Elements).
The exposure sensor has a resolution of 150,000 pixels and can recognize infrared rays. In conjunction with focusing, which works automatically, it not only helps to capture the maximum of the background, but also recognizes faces and colored objects.
The sensitivity increased by a special algorithm, which is responsible for tracking sudden movements, will not allow the focus to go astray.
Speed up, slow down, switch focus with six-mode auto focus: choose what you need for a particular subject.
The flicker-reducing option automatically corrects for low-light images so you can take pictures in nightclubs in comfort.
Shoot continuously at 7 fps: the number of frames in JPEG format is unlimited, and in RAW, the photographer can take 21 frames in one burst.
Navigate menus comfortably with the 3.2-inch touch screen.
Automatic specular vibration control helps you capture beautiful shots even when shaken.
The user has the option of taking photos at intervals using a timer – a great option for photo shoots.

minuses of include the exposure of the camera to moisture and dust.

See also: New from Canon

2. NIKON D500 Body

NIKON D500 Body works if the humidity does not exceed 85%. The camera comes with a lens cap for easy transport and storage.

Pros:

Capture stunning landscapes, close-ups and portraits with a camera resolution (total) of 21.51 megapixels and a 35mm native exposure format that allows you to “capture” more of the background.
Matrix equipped with a special function for dust removal. Remember: to run auto-cleaning, you need special software.
Double storage card tray allows you to store more files. In addition, the photographer can transfer and copy photos from one card to another, which allows you to filter and distribute photos.
Optics brings the image closer to 100%, both horizontally and vertically, which prevents distortion.
Due to the shutter working on the mechanics, and the control – on the electronics, the camera is comfortable to use.
Photo equipment is equipped with both a timer and a manual shutter speed, which allows you to select the necessary parameters for the shooting process.
The camera has seven options for different types of work. Thus, the photographer gets the choice: to create frame by frame – in a classic way, without interruption at low as well as at high speeds (burst), silently, as well as silently and continuously lower the shutter, automatically. In addition, the camera is equipped with an auto-raise mirror.
The slowest burst is three photos per second, and the fastest is 10 photos. This expands the owner’s range of activities, allowing him to participate in professional photo shoots.
The widest sensitivity range (minimum values are -100, and maximum – +51200) make it possible to photograph in conditions with any lighting conditions. In addition, the owner of such a camera can manually adjust the ISO or select auto mode.
AF function has 153 points: select focus for multiple subjects. And the option of tracking the object will not allow it to be “lost”.
Using this camera, the user can record clips with sound (implemented with a stereo microphone built into the camera or an external microphone device) in 4K, saving them in MOV format.
Control modes comfortably with the 8cm touch screen. A remote control is also connected to the camera. This is useful for filming in busy places: at corporate, wedding and other events.

Drawback is that the camera is not waterproof, so it cannot be used in the rain.

Interesting read: Top 6 best camera manufacturers

3. Canon EOS 80D Kit

but in RAW Canon EOS 80D Kit has 24 megapixel resolution the ability to record videos in FHD. The camera is equipped with a 3-inch swivel touch screen, which provides not only a convenient selection of all kinds of functions, but also comfort while observing the shooting.

Important: provides for the installation of an additional flash, which will make the shots even better.

Benefits:

Capturing seven photos in an instant is possible with the corresponding option during burst shooting: snapping animals in motion, sporting events and not missing anything is real.
The auto-focus system has 45 cross points, enabling high-precision compositional selection.
The user can not only immediately reproduce the picture, but also edit it. This adds ease of use and significantly speeds up post-processing.

The cons of the model include the lack of protection from dust and water. However, this is solved with the help of a cover or case. Nikon D750 Kit

The excellent Nikon D750 Kit will give the user a taste of what it means to be a professional photographer and take high quality pictures. The equipment is equipped with a 3.2-inch rotatable display, which will give you ease of use: it is comfortable to take pictures from various angles with such a camera.

Important: optics are capable of 5x magnification, which adds to the possibility of changing the exposure, and also contributes to the creation of good macro shots.

Pros:

A 24-megapixel camera is a pro-level shot.
The photosensitive range (100-12800) makes it possible to shoot both in pitch darkness and in bright light.
Fast Burst option takes six photos in a second: the photographer won’t miss a single moment on football or ice dancing, while photographing wildlife.
The camera focuses automatically, making it easier for the user to operate. Those who want to experiment, for example, photo artists, will like the manual focus mode.
Due to the optical auto image stabilization function, the frame will not “smear”.
The finish of the camera skin is soft and velvety, so it not only gives a pleasant feeling, but also prevents slipping.
The camera shoots movies in FHD. This is enough to shoot a wedding ceremony, graduation and family events.
The minimum shutter speed for a photo is three seconds, but the owner can change this figure using the option for manual settings.

The disadvantage of is that the screen built into the camera is not controlled by finger pressure.

Interesting read: Fujifilm X-A10 – Fujifilm’s new entry-level system camera

5. Canon EOS 5D Mark III Kit

9 0002 Equipped with stereo speakers, having 22 million pixels Canon EOS 5D Mark III Kit will be needed to take not only beautiful photos, but also good videos that will be played directly from the camera with sound. By connecting an external microphone, the user gets the opportunity to increase the volume and volume of the sound.

Important: a full-sized matrix allows you to see more details: texture, smooth transition of shadow shades.

Advantages:

The display is designed in such a way that dust does not penetrate into the gaps, and glare is almost invisible, which makes it possible to use this option comfortably even in bright sunlight.
Light sensitivity coverage settings are wide enough (minimum 100, maximum 25600) to take pictures in total darkness as well as in blinding light.
Install an optional flash to brighten up your shots.
The camera provides high-quality shooting in macro format: the owner has the opportunity to quadruple the distance to the subject.
No image shaking due to optical type stabilization.

Disadvantage of – 3.2 inch monitor does not rotate and is not equipped with a sensor, which reduces the comfort level of use.

6.

Nikon D5 Body

those who have just graduated from photography school, so and “seasoned” professionals. High-level quality is achieved through a technique that processes signals with amazing purity, because the sensor that determines the level of illumination is now 25% larger.

Important: DSLR allows you to configure slots for card drives: the owner gets two trays for XQD or two for Compact Flash. The first option is intended for a high-speed series of photos, where 14 frames are taken per second, or 4K video recording at 60 fps. It is useful for those who shoot shooting competitions, the life of animals and insects. The second – for the classic, frame-by-frame.

Advantages:

Shoot at night, even on a bright sunny or cloudy day: ISO coverage has a maximum value of 102,400, and a minimum of 100. Such parameters, which are responsible for the sensitivity of optics to light, guarantee the quality at which whatever lighting.
Capture beautiful shots in high resolution (21 megapixels, maximum photo size 5568 x 3712) and in comfort with auto focus and the ability to adjust focus manually (153 points in total).
Set the shutter speed manually (minimum 1/8000 second, maximum half a minute).
Take better pictures with an optional flash.
Customize your mode options with a 3.2” touch sensitive screen.
Share videos and photos with friends via Wi-Fi, and wirelessly transfer files to your computer.

Interesting read: Leica Sofort – the new Leica masterpiece with instant prints

7. CANON EOS 77D CANON EOS 77D 24 megapixel photographer can take photos up to 6000 x 4000 They are suitable for posters, posters, and for a portfolio in a modeling agency.

Important: pictures are saved as in classic JPEG, but the user has the opportunity to save RAW files – uncompressed. The video is played in MP4 format.

Pros:

Optics determines the focus automatically (49 points in total), which makes it easy to “seize the moment”. During movie recording, Live View provides smooth focus changes.
With an aperture of f/2.8, the camera will allow you to capture more of the background, which provides beautiful and clear shots in the company, photos against the backdrop of landscapes.
ISO range starts at a minimum (100 ISO) and reaches a maximum value of 25,600 ISO. High-quality photos in any lighting are real.
Capture even a fleeting movement, facial expression changes during a series of shots, taking six photos in one instant.
Movies are recorded and played in Full HD: Capture action-packed subjects at 60 fps.
Play with effects with Shallow Depth Sharpness in video and feel like a director.
Manage your options in comfort with a 3-inch touch screen.
Transfer content to your PC wirelessly with built-in wireless connectivity.

Despite all the advantages, this DSLR has a drawback : it does not support Compact Flash.

8. CANON EOS 750D Body

Equipped with an optical system that automatically stabilizes the image, CANON EOS 750D Body with a crop sensor and a resolution of 24 megapixels , will give the novice photographer and pros the pleasure of working and help you create professional photos.

Advantages:

Shooting dynamic events and not missing anything is possible due to the fact that the user can take five shots per second. This is useful for competitions, birthdays and other events: funny facial expressions, head turns and gestures, the flight of a bullet or ball – the photographer will have time to capture everything.
The ease of film-quality FHD movie recording is realized with Hybrid CMOS AF III, a method that is designed to follow the movement of subjects and move the focus smoothly.
Capture shots comfortably with the 3-inch swivel touch screen.

This camera is not protected against water and dust, so you have to shoot only in “sterile” conditions, which is rightly considered a disadvantage of . However, a case or case will help solve this problem.

Read also: Review of Canon PowerShot G9 X, G5 X and G3 X cameras: advanced compacts with a large sensor

9. Canon EOS 7D Mark II Body

The 20-megapixel Canon EOS 7D Mark II Body provides the ability to save classic JPEG data and RAW files. The variant of the second type assumes full-length, but more “heavy” photographs related to the professional stage.

Benefits:

Any lighting is no problem – the quality of the photo frame will not suffer thanks to the automatic detection and adjustment of the sensitivity of the optics to light in the range from 100 to 3200 ISO.
Auto exposure is adjustable from 1.8000 to 30 seconds, which allows you to “catch” a unique moment.
Capture moving subjects in comfort (movie frames at 60 fps. View footage you capture in FHD: no detail is lost on the large 40” monitor.
Connect an external type of flash to enhance the photo quality.
View your footage or photos on the 3-inch display so you can make timely adjustments to your shooting.
Don’t worry about the matrix getting dusty – run the cleaning function.
Take “live” photos by programming the shooting time using the timer.
Video recording is carried out with sound, there is sound during playback on the display.

Disadvantage of – does not transfer files wirelessly: you will have to connect the camera to the computer using a cable.

See also: How to choose a SLR camera: 5 parameters

Canon PowerShot G7X Mark II parameters not exceeding 5472 x 3648.

Important: on one battery charge, the owner has the opportunity to take a maximum of 265 shots.

Pros:

Thanks to its 31-point autofocus, the DSLR helps create perfect shots effortlessly, and there’s a manual mode for photographers and experimenters.
ISO range (125 to 12800) – shoot in both dark and bright light (both sunlight and artificial light) without compromising quality.
Capture not only subjects but also maximum background with auto (or manual) exposure with a focus distance range (28-84).
Take close-up photos at 3x optical zoom.
The photographer’s hand won’t flinch or smear the shot with the auto-stabilize frame function.
Operate your camera in comfort thanks to the 3” touchscreen display.
Take unexpected “live” photos with burst function – eight photos in an instant. Exposure options (1,2000 sec – half a minute) will help you choose individual settings for different photosets.
Transfer photos/videos to your laptop or tablet wirelessly using the Wi-Fi interface.
Record FHD movies with moving subjects thanks to 60 fps.
Install an SD memory stick to save as much material as possible.

Another flash cannot be added to this camera, which counts as minus .

Interesting read: How to choose a semi-professional camera – 6 tips

In this review, we looked at the best SLR cameras. Among them, we highlight CANON EOS 5D Mark IV Body. This model will suit photographers of any level: this camera guarantees detailed photographic and video materials (records 4K). Light sensitivity settings, resolution and adjustable options – all this provides an opportunity not only to create a great shot at the first click, but also to play with effects: post-processing of each shot is not required.

Watch the video

Best DSLRs for beginners: 2022-2023 ranking

Taking beautiful photos is not as easy as it might seem at first glance. In addition to talent and certain knowledge, you need a good apparatus. SLR cameras for beginner photographers have all the necessary attributes to create high-quality pictures. This article will help you not to make a mistake in choosing and understand all the subtleties of this device.

Best SLR camera rating by owner reviews

User reviews are the best way to get a real idea of the quality of the camera. After weighing all the pros and cons based on the advantages and disadvantages, a novice photographer will understand what is right for him.

Canon EOS 1300D

It’s easy to take great pictures and movies with this camera. One of the most affordable, but good models. Intelligent autofocus will allow you to take clear and bright photos with a minimum amount of effort. It is possible to connect via NFC to Android devices.

~~Canon EOS 1300D~~

“Before I bought it, I took pictures with a phone with an excellent camera. The difference, of course, is colossal, having taken a few shots on a SLR, there is no desire to return to the phone. The price is the most reasonable of all that can be found in a category with the same characteristics. In the future I plan to buy a more professional SLR camera, but for starters, this one is just a godsend.”

Pavel, 26 years old (Murom).

Affordable price;
Ease of use;
Stylish design;
Various shooting modes;
Interchangeable lens support.

Not protected against dust and water;
No matrix cleaning option.

See the video for a more detailed review:

Canon EOS 4000D

The finest details can be seen in pictures taken with this camera. Wi-Fi allows you to transfer fresh pictures directly to your phone or to social networks. The battery lasts for 500 high-quality shots. Of the features worth noting 11 lenses and compact size.

~~Canon EOS 4000D~~

“It was given to me for my birthday, knowing my passion for photography. I use it exclusively for myself, as I am not a professional. It is difficult to say something about the characteristics due to amateur experience, but it is definitely suitable for personal use. Bright, clear, beautiful photos, intuitive controls, detailed instructions. I like!”

Polina, 32 years old (Moscow).

Easy to use;
Low price;
Nice looking;
Built-in Wi-Fi module.

No retractable screen;
No jack for external microphone.

Detailed video review:

Nikon D3400

A popular SLR camera with a capacious battery. Automatically stabilizes the image in case of strong shaking. A special function allows you to automatically clean dust from the surface of the sensor. Versatile optics and excellent photo quality will allow you to take pictures in almost any conditions on any terrain.

~~Nikon D3400~~

“I’m taking a course for beginner photographers, a Nikon SLR camera was recommended to me by a teacher. The menu is really for “dummies” – clear and simple. Many different shooting modes, autofocus, good optics. For my level, this is just a great option!”

Matvey, 24 years old (Vladimir).

Low cost;
High-capacity battery;
Silent operation;
Intuitive menu.

No swivel screen;
If the light is too bright, there will be noticeable blown-out in images.

Video review:

Canon EOS 200D

A full charge of this camera is enough for 650 shots, which is quite a lot. Nice additions include built-in Wi-Fi, a microphone jack, and Bluetooth. The body is made of black plastic. It is very convenient to view the captured images on the large display. Not a bad focal length, providing a good Zoom.

~~Canon EOS 200D~~

“Nimble machine that somewhat exceeded my expectations. All automatic shooting modes practically do not degrade the quality of images, and this is important when it is impossible to build characteristics on your own. In a fairly budget model turned out to be excellent functionality. But there is no protection against dust and moisture, which makes it a little difficult to shoot in rainy weather. ”

Kirill, 30 years old (Perm)

Clear controls;
Microphone connector;
Swivel touch display;
Great shots.

Battery cover flimsy;
The memory card slot is located in the battery compartment.

Feedback from the real owner after 4 months of use, see the video:

Nikon D5300

An excellent SLR camera with a powerful flash and an excellent lens. Built-in GPS allows you to attach geolocation to images, and Wi-Fi transfer materials to a computer or to the cloud. Many automatic functions, rich equipment, remote control and red-eye reduction option.

~~Nikon D5300~~

“Overall this is a very good value for the money. And if you get on discounts or promotions, then just a bomb. The videos are not quite up to par, which can not be said about the photos – they turn out great. Without any processing, they delight with bright colors, clarity of detail and contrast.

Elizaveta, 34 years old (Ivanovo).

Compact size;
Convenient menu;
39 focus points;
GPS and WiFi.

Lens noise;
GPS sometimes does not work correctly;
External microphone recordings are noisy.

Buyer’s opinion on the video:

Sony Alpha ILCA-68

Reliable and inexpensive SLR camera is equipped with everything necessary for amateur photography or the work of a novice photographer. It is convenient to view the footage on the rotary LCD screen, the case is made of plastic and aluminum, the pictures are practically noiseless. Powerful flash allows you to shoot in the dark.

~~reflex camera~~

“Sony is somewhere in the middle in terms of purpose – a little complicated for a beginner, but simple for a professional. It turns out great photos, a lot of useful things. I would advise amateurs not to be scared, but just to understand the instructions and take great shots!

Igor, 39 years old (Petrozavodsk).

Interchangeable lens support;
AF tracking;
Functionality;
Value for money.

Complicated menu;
Low display resolution;
Noisy matrix.

Comparison table

The table shows the main comparative key parameters.

Model	Total pixels (millions)	Maximum photo resolution	Bit depth (bit)	Maximum video resolution	Price (rub)
EOS 1300D	18. 7	5184×3456	42	1920×1980	From 23990
EOS 4000D	18.7	5184х3456	42		From 22999
D3400	24.7	6000×4000	36		From 30500
EOS 200D	25.8		42		From 35500
D5300	24.78				From 37490
Sony Alpha ILCA-68	24.3				From 38900

~~reflex camera~~

Nikon or Canon: which manufacturer to choose?

Even those who have nothing to do with photography know about the apparent struggle between the two Japanese brands. And if professionals understand what they need and who they are ready to give preference to, then a novice photographer always asks himself: which manufacturer is better? It is extremely difficult to answer this question unambiguously, since both companies produce high-quality products. Each is inferior to the other in some ways, but both deserve attention. Let’s consider other parameters in more detail.

Videos. Here the palm belongs to Canon, but Nikon is slowly keeping up with him.
Photo. Devices with similar characteristics will also have similar photos, the difference is mainly only in the number of pixels.
Auto focus. In this matter, Nikon has advantages. This manufacturer has more autofocus points than Canon.
Lens. Their quality is about the same for both companies, but it’s easier to find adapters on Canon that will allow you to connect a non-native lens to it.
Electronics. Both companies do not spare money for a good “stuffing” of their cameras, so both brands are equal in this indicator.
Additional functionality. Extended equipment, interesting and useful options, important little things – all this can often be found at Nikon.
Model range. Canon has a slightly wider one, and this brand releases new devices to the market more often than Nikon.
Cost. Models with similar specifications cost the same, but it cannot be noted that sometimes Nikon still overprices their devices.

Summing up, we can say that both brands are good. But if you are a beginner or amateur photographer, buy a Canon. It will be cheaper and perfect for stuffing your hands. It is also worth choosing this company if you shoot high-quality videos.

What to look for when choosing?

When choosing a SLR camera, there are several most important criteria that will affect the quality of the footage.

Matrix

One of the main elements that you need to pay special attention to when choosing. Consider two parameters: resolution and size. In the first case, this is the number of pixels – the more there are, the higher the quality of the image. For a novice photographer, a device with an indicator of 15 to 25 megapixels is enough. The sensor size can be full-frame or non-full-frame. The second option is cheaper and quite suitable for a future professional.

Lens

Usually all cameras are already equipped with a standard lens (Kit). Main indicators:

focal length – the larger it is, the better the zoom, that is, the approximation of the object;
shortest shooting distance is the shortest distance at which the camera can focus on the subject;
bayonet – a mounting unit with which it is fixed on the camera, it is important that the bayonet is made of good material;
the number of optical elements is the number of lenses that make up the lens, the more of them, the better the image;
case – it will be a definite plus if it is equipped with protection against dust and moisture.

Video quality

Video recording with a DSLR will never be better than still photography. But with the help of such a device, you can shoot good videos. If the camera has a high video resolution (1920×1080), there is a connector for an external microphone, and the frame rate is high enough, then the videos will look good.

Dimensions

A particularly relevant parameter if the shooting takes a long time. Weighty and large cameras have more features and are more reliable. They are uncomfortable to hold in your hand for a long time. Choose average devices for these indicators. It should fit comfortably in your hand.

Ease of use

An incomprehensible interface, a tricky menu and a lot of functions that are not yet known to you are absolutely useless. When buying a camera, pay attention to models with intuitive controls and tips.