If you’re looking for a digital camera that offers better image quality than your smartphone, you should consider buying a professional full-frame DSLR. These cameras can offer a huge amount of detail in their photos, and they also tend to be more capable of recovering highlight and shadow detail in post.
1. Sony a7 IV
It shares practically the same processor and AF system as the a7 III, but it adds several useful upgrades. Most notably, it gains support for 4K video capture at 60 fps.
The A7 IV also offers 10-bit capture for increased processing flexibility with Log footage, and full Hybrid Log Gamma support. It also adds improved AF tracking, including eye AF and subject recognition that works in video mode.
2. Canon EOS R5
The Canon EOS R5 is a powerful full frame mirrorless camera with an 8K video sensor. It’s the first consumer 8K camera and is a great choice for both professionals and hobbyists.
The camera is built around a new 45.7 megapixel CMOS sensor and Dual Pixel CMOS AF. It also includes a 5-axis IBIS system to help compensate for lens shake.
3. Nikon Z 6II
The Z 6II builds on the strengths of its predecessor and delivers even better imaging performance. Thanks to a dual processor and faster burst shooting, this camera is a great option for photographers looking for a reliable, fast camera that can deliver sharp details with excellent low-light capability.
The Z 6II also improves on its predecessor’s video capabilities. It offers 4K Ultra HD at 60p, Full HD at 120p, and a variety of time-lapse options.
4. Sony a6500
The Sony a6500 packs an impressive 24MP sensor and BIONZ X image processor into a relatively compact body. It also boasts a top continuous shooting rate of 11fps, which is among the fastest among crop sensor cameras.
The Sony a6500 is also built to last and features dust and moisture resistance. It’s also able to support heavier and larger lenses with a rigid metal lens mount.
5. Canon EOS R6
If you’re looking for a more affordable full-frame mirrorless camera with a good mix of image quality, speed and versatility, the EOS R6 might be just the thing. It’s built around a revised 20MP full-frame CMOS sensor with fine-tuned DIGIC X image processor, and it’s capable of impressive stills and video performance, plus sensitivity from ISO 100-102,400 (expandable to 50-204,800).
It also boasts a new AI-powered autofocus system that’s far faster and more intuitive than previous models. It can now track people and animals using their eyes, faces and bodies to lock onto subjects instinctively.
6. Sony X-T30 II
A camera with a retro aesthetic that also has cutting edge functionality, the X-T30 II brings together the latest technology in a classic design. It has a silver finish, prominent physical controls, and a high-resolution 2.36m-dot OLED electronic viewfinder.
It also features a rear 3.0″ 1.62m-dot tilting touchscreen LCD that can be used for live view shooting and larger image playback. It also sports built-in wi-fi and Bluetooth connectivity for wireless sharing and remote control.
7. Sony a6500
The Sony a6500 is the latest entry in Sony’s popular crop-sensor mirrorless line. It adds several important new features to its predecessor, such as hybrid image stabilization and a touch-screen display.
The a6500 sports a 24MP sensor that delivers excellent results when the light is good. It also has an ISO range of 100-25600 (51200 when expanded), which is useful for photographers who want to shoot in low light conditions.
8. Canon EOS R6
Whether you’re shooting stills or video, the Canon EOS R6 is a powerful tool for your creativity. Its combination of speed, image quality and flexibility makes it an excellent choice for any photographer.
Powered by a 20MP Full-frame CMOS sensor and DIGIC X processor, the R6 delivers superb image quality at all ISO settings. It’s also fast enough to capture fast moving subjects at up to 12 fps with mechanical shutter and up to 20 fps in silent electronic mode.
9. Sony a6500
The Sony a6500 is one of the best digital cameras available right now. It’s packed with features, including built-in Wi-Fi, NFC and Bluetooth connectivity, a 2.36-million dot viewfinder and 11 fps continuous shooting.
It’s also a very customizable camera, with three default custom buttons and another on the rear. It’s a good choice for photographers who want quick access to frequently used settings.
10. Nikon Z 6II
The Z 6II is the latest in Nikon’s Z-series mirrorless cameras. It’s built on the same platform as the Z6, but it improves on its predecessor in several key areas, including performance and image quality.
One of the biggest improvements is in the AF system. It uses the same 273-point Hybrid AF system found in the Z6, but it has been optimized for faster response and higher precision.