Here we are going to look at the best mirrorless cameras under $1000 for different users best suited for wildlife photography, vlogging, travel, landscape photography or people just shooting video. These cameras are typically smaller and lighter than DSLRs, but they still offer fast autofocus, high continuous shooting speeds, and incredible image quality.
Mirrorless cameras are versatile enough for a wide range of photography and video work, making them a great option for beginners and pros alike. They are not the same as DSLR cameras, which use mirror viewfinders to reflect images. Mirrorless cameras use electronic viewfinders (EVF) to show images digitally. These cameras can help you capture high-quality photos and videos and are a good value for the price.
With so many budget-friendly options available, you’re sure to find a mirrorless camera that fits your needs and helps you capture stunning images and videos. You don’t have to spend a lot to get great results. You can find a high-quality mirrorless camera for less than $1,000. Here are some of the best mirrorless cameras you can buy online without breaking the bank.
Best Mirrorless Camera under 1000 USD: Top Picks
These are the mirrorless cameras we think are the best value for most people under $1,000. We considered different needs and budgets to pick the right ones for you.
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1. Fujifilm X-S10
Looking for the best mirrorless camera under $1,000? Check out the Fujifilm X-S10. The camera body is available for slightly under $1,000, but it’s important to keep in mind that adding lenses would increase the final cost to over $1,000. However, if your budget allows, it’s one of the best APS-C cameras for the money, especially if you already own Fuji lenses.
What makes the X-S10 special? First, it’s one of the few under-$1,000 cameras with in-body image stabilization (IBIS) for sharper photos at slower shutter speeds and smoother handheld videos. Plus, its high-resolution sensor captures stunning images, and you can play with Fujifilm’s film simulations to add unique looks right out of the camera. The 180° vari-angle LCD touchscreen adds another layer of versatility, enabling photographers to conquer challenging angles with ease.
While the autofocus isn’t perfect, the X-S10 shines as a well-rounded entry-level option for those who love both photography and video. It’s built to last, delivers excellent image quality, and offers creative flexibility—all at a budget-friendly price. So, if you’re looking for a versatile and powerful mirrorless camera that won’t break the bank, the Fujifilm X-S10 is worth considering.
2. Canon EOS RP
Before the Canon EOS RP came out, it was hard to find a new full-frame camera for less than $1000. Now, this camera costs just under $1000 for the body, making it one of the cheapest full-frame cameras available. While you’ll need to spend more on lenses, especially if you want different ones, it’s a good option for people who can’t afford a more expensive camera.
The Canon EOS RP boasts a 26.2 MP full-frame CMOS Sensor and an advanced DIGIC 8 Image Processor which work together to offer amazing image quality. This mirrorless camera takes beautiful pictures even in low light, thanks to its low noise levels. It’s also easy to use with an intuitive menu system and great for focusing on still subjects.
The Canon EOS RP is an excellent mirrorless camera for vlogging, travel photography, landscape photography, sports, and wildlife photography. Its screen is fully articulated, so you can always see what you’re recording, even when the camera is facing you. If you shoot in FHD, the camera does a great job of making your handheld videos look smooth, and the autofocus works well for keeping your face in focus.
The Canon EOS RP has some great features. It’s compact, making it easy to carry around, and its controls and user interface are user-friendly. However, there are some downsides. The build quality isn’t the best, and the battery doesn’t last very long. The EOS RP doesn’t have built-in stabilization, and its 4k video is heavily cropped, so it’s not ideal for action shots or filmmaking. Despite these drawbacks, it’s a good choice for landscape and portrait lovers who want better low-light performance and the option to use full-frame lenses.
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3. Fujifilm X-T30 II
The Fujifilm X-T30 II is a compact mirrorless camera that you can buy online without breaking the bank. It’s smaller and lighter than many other interchangeable-lens cameras, perfect for travel or street photography. Plus, it captures stunning photos and videos straight out of the box. Its fourth-generation X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor reduces noise while increasing sensitivity to ISO 160.
The camera’s improved ability to track moving subjects, even in low light conditions as low as -7EV, adds to its versatility. Whether taking still photos or recording 4K/30p video, the X-T30 II ensures you never miss a moment. The X-T30 II suits filmmakers looking for the highest level of color accuracy, offering 4K video recording at 30 fps and 10x super slow-motion effects at 240 fps in 1080p.
The X-T30 II has more dials for quick setting adjustments. It also has a tilting screen for easier low-angle shots. So, if you’re looking for a powerful yet portable camera under $1,000, the X-T30 II is worth considering. Just give those dials a little practice, and you’ll be capturing amazing photos and videos on the go.
4. Nikon Z fc
The Nikon Z fc is a compact mirrorless camera under 1000 dollars designed for everyday photography and vlogging. It has a 21MP sensor for crisp photos and good video, alongside classic looks and easy-to-use controls. Plus, you can build a nice lens collection with Nikon’s new options and some affordable lenses from Sigma.
While the body feels sturdy, the battery door isn’t the strongest, and auto settings require a few extra clicks. You might also want a grip for better handling. The screen flips all the way forward, perfect for selfies and vlogs.
The Z fc’s autofocus is accurate, even for fast bursts and 4K video, but setting it up takes a bit longer compared to some rivals. For video, the quality is great in both 4K and 1080p, but it’s not quite the absolute best. There’s a microphone input for better audio, but no headphone jack to monitor it. You’ll also need a tripod or gimbal for smooth footage, as there’s no built-in stabilization.
Overall, the Z fc is a great choice for everyday photography and vlogging. It delivers excellent image and video quality in a stylish package, even if it doesn’t top the charts in any single area. It’s worth considering if you want a good-looking camera that’s fun to use for everyday shooting.
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5. Sony Alpha A6100
The Sony a6100 is a beginner-friendly camera that’s quite different from the Nikon. While it may not be as stylish or provide as much direct control, it stands out with some of the best autofocus capabilities in its category and is compatible with a wide variety of lenses.
This camera is an entry-level APS-C mirrorless model, featuring a 24MP sensor and a touchscreen for convenient focus adjustment. One of its standout features is Sony’s excellent autofocus tracking, particularly effective for capturing people and pets. The autofocus system is smart enough to recognize and smoothly track these subjects across the frame. Additionally, users can easily set the focus point by touching the screen, making it a user-friendly system for beginners, regardless of the subject.
The a6100 is capable of shooting 4K footage and slow-motion 1080 video. While it has a port for an external microphone, it lacks a headphone connection for monitoring. The camera supports tap-to-track autofocus in video mode, but there’s noticeable ‘jello-effect’ distortion in 4K footage, especially in 24p mode.
Overall, the a6100 is a solid entry-level camera with a powerful and user-friendly autofocus system. While the kit zoom and interface might not be perfect, a few adjustments to the settings can help users capture excellent shots with ease.
6. Nikon Z 50
If you’re looking for the best mirrorless camera below $1000, check out the Nikon Z 50. You can get it with a Nikkor Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR lens for the same price as the Fujifilm X-S10 without a lens. The Nikon Z 50 is an entry-level mirrorless camera that’s sturdy and strong, weather-sealed, and easy to use.
Equipped with a 20.9 MP sensor, the Nikon Z 50 doesn’t just capture moments; it preserves them in stunning detail. While it may not have the highest-resolution sensor, it still performs well for its class. It’s great for taking pictures of fast-moving things because it can shoot quickly and has a good autofocus system.
The Nikon Z 50 is the best $1000 mirrorless camera for shooting videos. It can record 4k videos at up to 30 frames per second, and its screen can flip down for vlogging. Keep in mind that there aren’t as many lens options for the Nikon Z-mount, especially for APS-C cameras. If you want more lens choices, the Sony a6400 is a good alternative in the same price range. However, we recommend the Nikon Z 50 for most people because of its easy handling and user-friendly interface.
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