Comparing Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Cameras from Nikon, Canon, and Sony in the Same Price Range
Choosing the Right Camera
If you're not sure which brand of camera to buy, it's a good idea to visit a physical store where you can handle the different models and receive expert advice. This will ensure that the prices are the same as you would find online, as camera manufacturers control the pricing.
The Latest Models
When considering similar price ranges, Nikon's latest Z9 is highly praised as a professional model, often paired with the Nikon 400mm 2.8 lens with an inbuilt 1.4x teleconverter. These are excellent choices, but remember that the latest models are often the best in terms of specifications and features.
Nikon Z Series
Nikon's Z series offers pro-level cameras that are largely equivalent to their current DSLRs, such as the D750 and D850, but with the advantage of being smaller, lighter, and featuring five-axis in-body stabilization. This makes them a very comfortable rig for professional photographers.
Sony's Mirrorless Capability
Sony has comparable capabilities in their mirrorless cameras and is well-prepared to support third-party lenses. Both Nikon and Sony's mirrorless systems are very close in features, making it difficult to distinguish one from the other. The small differences are negligible, and both systems are excellent choices.
Canon’s Approach
Canon has taken a different approach, offering a single general camera instead of two specialty cameras. This camera is well-suited for general users and is designed to cater to their needs. It's a fine piece of equipment that offers a balance of features and performance.
EVF Cameras: A Closer Look
When it comes to electronic viewfinder (EVF) cameras, Nikon and Canon offer similar options. Canon's EOS M series has a basic APS sensor, similar to the ones found in the EOS Rebel line, and is priced affordably. However, this line of cameras hasn't gained much traction, and Canon only manufactures a few EOS-M lenses. Regular EF-S lenses are usable with adapter, but they are not much smaller than traditional APS DSLR lenses.
Nikon's EVF camera is part of their Nikon 1 series, which uses a tiny sensor (CX size in the industry). This sensor results in lower image quality compared to DSLR or other EVF systems. Additionally, the Nikon 1 models tend to be expensive for the features they offer, with older models sometimes available at lower prices. However, their image quality and advanced features lag behind other systems.
Sony, on the other hand, has been dedicated to their EVF cameras, which are part of their NEX system. Recently, this system has merged with Sony's SLR system, featuring cameras with both pellicle mirrors and EVFs that are the same size as traditional DSLRs but are actually big EVF cameras.
Micro Four-Thirds: An Alternative
For users who prefer an alternative to the main brands, Micro Four-thirds is an exciting option. This system utilizes a sensor that is exactly 1/2 the size of a 35mm frame (4/3 system). The Micro Four-thirds platform has seen significant growth due to its cross-company collaboration, with Olympus, Panasonic, and Blackmagic Design leading the way. Other manufacturers, including JVC and JK Imaging (Kodak brand), are also involved, making the platform serious in terms of both still photography and video.
Micro Four-thirds cameras include the Olympus Pen series (PS-Body) and the OM-D from Olympus, as well as the GH series from Panasonic. These cameras offer a variety of lens options from brands like Panasonic, Leica, Olympus, Sigma, Samyang, Rokinon, Voigtl?nder, SLR Magic, Tokina, JVC, Jackar, and others. The ecosystem of lenses and bodies continues to grow, making Micro Four-thirds an attractive choice for both serious and casual photographers.