In order not to be unfounded, we interviewed experts and professional photographers, studied customer reviews and compiled the TOP of the best professional cameras for 2021 in terms of price/quality ratio.
Rating of the TOP 20 best professional cameras of 2021
| Place | Name | Price |
| TOP 3 best professional cameras by price/quality for 2021 | ||
| 1 | Canon EOS M50 Kit | Find out the price |
| 2 | Sony Alpha ILCE-7M3 Body | Find out the price |
| 3 | Nikon Z50 Kit | Find out the price |
| TOP 3 best mirrorless professional cameras | ||
| 1 | Canon EOS RP Body | Find out the price |
| 2 | Sony Alpha ILCE-6400 Kit | Find out the price |
| 3 | Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III Kit | Find out the price |
| TOP 3 best professional SLR cameras | ||
| 1 | Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Body | Find out the price |
| 2 | Nikon D750 Body | Find out the price |
| 3 | Pentax K-1 Mark II Body | Find out the price |
| TOP 3 best professional cameras for a beginner photographer | ||
| 1 | Nikon D3500 Kit | Find out the price |
| 2 | Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II | Find out the price |
| 3 | Canon EOS M200 Kit | Find out the price |
| TOP 3 best professional full-frame cameras | ||
| 1 | Canon EOS R6 Body | Find out the price |
| 2 | Nikon Z5 Body | Find out the price |
| 3 | Sony Alpha ILCE-7M3 Kit | Find out the price |
| TOP 3 best compact professional cameras | ||
| 1 | Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100M5A | Find out the price |
| 2 | Fujifilm X100V | Find out the price |
| 3 | Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS200/TZ200 | Find out the price |
| TOP 2 best inexpensive professional cameras | ||
| 1 | Canon EOS M100 Kit | Find out the price |
| 2 | Olympus Tough TG-6 | Find out the price |
Comparison of the presented models
For greater clarity, we recommend that you familiarize yourself with the comparative characteristics of the models presented in the rating.
| Model | Number of Megapixels | Flash functions | Set | Price, rub | Rating on a 5-point scale |
| Kodak PIXPRO FZ152 | 16.2 | slow sync, red-eye reduction, fill light, auto-fire | battery, USB cable, strap, documentation, adapter | 8 999 | 5.0 |
| Canon PowerShot SX620HS | 20.2 | Intelligent flash exposure compensation, face detection for flash autoexposure correction | charger, battery, strap, documentation | 12 999 | 4.3 |
| Nikon Coolpix B500 | 16 | automatic, auto with target detection, center, manual with 99 focus areas | charger, shoulder strap, USB cable, lens cap with cord, batteries | 16 999 | 4.6 |
| Canon EOS M10 kit 15-45mm | 18 | removes red eye, slow sync, forced triggering | lens cap, charger, strap, documentation, USB cable, battery | 19 999 | 4.9 |
| Canon EOS 1300D Kit 18-55mm | 18 | removes red eye effect | protective cover, software CD, charger, shoulder strap, battery, USB cable, documentation | 23 999 | 4.7 |
| Sony Alpha ILCE-5000LB Kit 16-50mm | 20.1 | eliminates red eye, slow sync | lens cap, charger, strap, documentation, USB cable, battery | 25 999 | 4.8 |
| Sony Cyber-shot RX-100 | 20.2 | slow sync, red-eye reduction, force trigger, auto trigger, force shutdown | shoulder strap, battery, strap, documentation, adapter, microUSB cable | 26 999 | 4.3 |
| Canon PowerShot SX60HS | 16.1 | Red-eye reduction, force trigger, auto trigger, force shutdown | charger, documentation, lens cap with cord, FSB cable, neck strap, battery kit | 27 999 | 5.0 |
| Nikon Coolpix B700 | 20.3 | automatic TTL flash mode with test pre-flash | charger, battery, USB cable, strap, documentation | 29 999 | 4.5 |
| Nikon D5300 Kit 18-55mm AF-P II | 24.2 | Red-eye reduction, second curtain sync, slow sync, fill | Shoe Cover, Protective Cover, Software Disc, Charger, Shoulder Strap, Rechargeable Battery, USB Cable, Eyepiece Cover, Rubber Eyecup, AV Cable | 37 999 | 4.7 |
How to choose a professional camera?
When choosing a professional camera, you need to study the technical documentation of models that seem attractive and compare key parameters.
These include ergonomics, image quality and functionality.
- Weight, dimensions and form factor . When choosing a camera, this is one of the most important criteria, since those who work at outdoor events need the device to be light and convenient.
- Image quality. It is mainly determined by the matrix, so the more megapixels, the better.
- Functionality . This includes the presence of all sorts of features: autofocus, flash, time-lapse, timer, video shooting, RAW shooting, night mode.
- Clarity and color rendition of pictures . These indicators are mainly determined by stabilization and photosensitivity.
- Battery capacity and number . The capacity determines how long the camera can work without recharging, and the presence of a second battery in the kit allows you to quickly replace a dead one without waiting for it to be recharged. An even more comfortable option is a battery-powered camera.
- Compatible with a variety of accessories , from memory card type to tripod or strap mounts.
conclusions
When choosing a good camera from a budget line, the buyer should listen to the recommendations of experts and remember that:
- the number of effective pixels, the presence of a built-in flash with adjustable capabilities and the characteristics of the matrix are the key parameters that need to be considered first;
- It is also necessary to pay attention to the type of power supply, charging time and battery life of the device. An important indicator is the speed of creating images per second;
- You should ask your consultant about the basic set of options and additional functionality of the device . The more of them, the more interesting it will be to work with the device, creating excellent photos and shooting various videos;
- It is worth finding out information about the configuration, dimensions of the equipment and its weight - the camera should be comfortable to hold in your hands.
Model selection criteria
It is obvious even to a person far from the world of cameras that the price of budget compacts, DSLRs and mirrorless cameras will differ significantly. Therefore, investing the same value is pointless. Therefore, firstly, the review should include several models of different types. And secondly, it is important to understand that “budget” will mean the opportunity to purchase a good camera for a relatively small amount of money.
Also, when compiling the rating, we took into account not so much the release date of the camera, but its popularity among consumers in 2021. Sometimes, due to price reductions due to the release of new models, their older brothers fit perfectly into the “budget” class. However, their characteristics cannot yet be called outdated. In addition, a budget camera is the optimal combination of price and quality. New products are often undeservedly overpriced.
Also, when selecting cameras, we took into account the fact that it would be necessary to subsequently purchase interchangeable lenses, flashes and other accessories. Of course, this only applies to DSLR and hybrid cameras. However, this can significantly increase the cost of the finished kit. Without this factor, it is difficult to compare models in this category.
And one last thing. When choosing a camera, we still considered mass market leaders such as Canon, Nikon, Sony, Olympus, Panasonic and some others. Still, these companies are trying to occupy the maximum number of niches. In addition, brands known only to professionals rarely produce budget models. If there are any, they are usually already outdated.
The best digital cameras of 2021
10. Canon PowerShot G1 Mark II
This is a fairly compact model with high performance, perfect for both beginners and experienced photographers. In terms of its overall dimensions, this model is slightly inferior to SLR cameras; its processor has a high clock frequency, which ensures high performance of the device. First of all, it is worth noting that this model is characterized by a matrix of significant size, and it also has a sensor with a diagonal of one and a half inches. The number of megapixels is not too large, however, as we have already found out, this parameter is not key.
The lens is non-replaceable, has a high aperture ratio and five-fold magnification. The focal length ranges from 24 to 120 mm. The lens has an optical stabilizer, which makes this camera perfect for shooting in low light conditions. The body is made of magnesium alloys and fits nicely in the hand. It is waterproof, so you can even shoot underwater. The design has a Wi-Fi module.
Advantages:
- Compact dimensions;
- Excellent build quality;
- The clarity of the resulting images;
- Shockproof housing.
Flaws:
- One battery charge is enough for approximately 300-400 shots;
- High price.
Canon PowerShot G1 Mark II
Fujifilm X30
A very convenient digital camera, stylized as a classic film model. It has a fairly capacious battery, which is enough for about 500 shots; it is recharged using a USB cable. Charging can be done in the device itself; there is no need to remove the battery, which is very convenient when traveling. There are as many as 12 shooting modes, with both manual and automatic settings provided. On the body there is a special slot for installing an external flash. On the back panel, almost all the space is taken up by the touch screen. It is retractable and equipped with a tilting mechanism, which allows you to shoot with your arms outstretched, and the photographer will have a clear view of everything that happens on the display.
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As with most other models, there is a built-in Wi-Fi module that allows you to connect with other digital equipment such as smartphones, computers or laptops. The viewfinder here is electronic, which greatly facilitates the operation of the device. There is a special button for video recording, and there is a jack for connecting a remote control or an external microphone.
Advantages:
- Good detail of the pictures;
- High-quality assembly;
- High shooting speed.
Flaws:
- In automatic modes, the white balance is disturbed;
- Moving objects in semi-darkness or twilight cannot be clearly captured even with a high-quality flash.
Fujifilm X30
8. Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX 100
The body of the device is made of aluminum alloys, so you need to be careful with the camera, it is sensitive to falls. The overall dimensions are not too large - this model will fit perfectly even in one hand. The build quality is excellent even though the product is made in China. There are no backlashes on the body and no extraneous squeaks occur even after several years of operation. There is a lamp on the front of the body that illuminates the automatic focus, and there are levers on the lens that are responsible for selecting focus and the aspect ratio of the frame. On the back of the device there is a large display, above it there is a digital viewfinder, near it there is a proximity sensor and diopter adjustment. To the right of the display there are buttons for viewing and menu settings.
At the bottom of the case there are compartments for installing a battery and memory card, connectors for a tripod and a small speaker. On the right end side there is a plastic plug, under which there is a connector for connecting USB and HDMI cables. The focal length range is from 24 to 75 mm, the matrix is large, and the depth of field due to this combination is simply excellent. In low light, very clear images are obtained. In video mode, it can produce up to 11 frames per second, recording is done in 4K or Full HD format.
Advantages:
- High picture quality when shooting video;
- A large number of individual settings;
- An excellent stabilizer.
Flaws:
- Poor focusing in manual format;
- The housing is not protected from dust penetration.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX 100
Leica Q (Typ 116)
This model is equipped with a full-frame matrix with a resolution of 24 Megapixels. There is an automatic mode that selects the most suitable shooting modes for existing lighting conditions, and it can be turned off and all settings can be made manually using the shutter speed dial and two rings - aperture and focus. The model is also equipped with several more buttons and a four-button joystick for more convenient menu navigation. The camera turns on very quickly - it takes less than a second, so you can quickly get an interesting shot. Auto focus is also quite fast, and the same applies to focusing in manual mode.
The lens has excellent color reproduction and good sharpness; the picture looks quite decent, largely thanks to special software correction of all parameters. The product shoots in various formats - their choice depends on how these images will be used in the future: one mode is provided for software processing, and another for ordinary viewing and printing. The display on the back of the camera has excellent color reproduction. The electronic viewfinder has high resolution.
Advantages:
- Very high image quality;
- Comfortable ergonomic shape, fits easily in the hand;
- Excellent stabilizer;
- All automatic settings can be adjusted manually.
Flaws:
- Weak battery;
- Sometimes it's difficult to set up a Wi-Fi connection;
- Auto focus works worse than on DSLR cameras.
Leica Q (Typ 116)
6. Canon PowerShot SX410 IS
One of the most compact models in our ranking of the best digital cameras. The aperture is in the range from 3.5 to 6.3 - this parameter will be quite enough for shooting in the dark; the optical zoom can reach 40x magnification. Focal length variable 4.3-172 m. The lens is closed with a spring-loaded cap. On the bottom side there is a socket for mounting the device on a tripod. All main functional buttons are located on the upper right part of the case. On the button responsible for releasing the shutter there is a ring responsible for magnification. There is a small microphone at the back above the large display. All main connectors are covered with a rubberized lid.
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In economy mode, the battery is enough for 250 photos, in normal mode – for 185 frames, there is a slot for installing a memory card, since the camera does not have its own internal memory. The display resolution is not too high, only 230 thousand pixels, the lens shutter speed is adjustable from 15 to 1/4000 seconds. The camera has small overall dimensions and fits comfortably in your hand.
Advantages:
- Excellent photo and video quality;
- Convenient 40x zoom.
Flaws:
- Low battery capacity;
- Non-standard shape - difficult to find a case;
- The plastic case is sensitive to physical influences.
Canon PowerShot SX410 IS
5.Canon Digital IXUS 220HS
Another fairly compact model, which, despite its modest size, is distinguished by high performance characteristics - a 12-pixel matrix with back illumination, a wide-angle lens, which is usually not found in such compact devices. In addition, there is optical image stabilization, and there is a 2.6-inch display on the rear panel. Continuous shooting is identical in performance to the best SLR cameras. Video shooting is done in Full HD format, sound is recorded in stereo format, there is an HDMI connector.
Back illumination of the matrix allows you to increase the amount of light entering it. When you select continuous shooting, 3.4 frames are taken per second. The quality of the images is excellent, largely due to the good color rendition of the lens. The model is housed in a plastic case, so you should handle this camera with care: it is sensitive to falls.
Advantages:
- Small overall dimensions;
- Durable model;
- Preparation for shooting takes a minimum of time;
- Japanese assembly, which in itself guarantees its quality.
Flaws:
- Plastic body;
- The duration of one video file does not exceed 10 minutes.
Canon Digital IXUS 220HS
Nikon Coolpix P900
This model is perfect for photographing wildlife, including in macro mode. The camera is equipped with an 83x optical zoom, allowing you to capture even small details that are invisible to the naked human eye. The product turns on almost instantly - it takes less than 0.5 seconds. The design includes an optical vibration reduction system made using the latest Dual DetectOptical VR technology, which completely eliminates blurring.
The design includes a built-in electronic viewfinder and a variable-angle display. Due to these elements, the user has excellent opportunities in terms of frame composition when shooting video. In addition, there are a number of built-in modules - GLONASS, QZSS and GPS, which allows you to obtain the most accurate data about the shooting location. There is a standard Wi-Fi module, thanks to which you can instantly share the resulting photos with other users. The display is liquid crystal, has a diagonal of 7.5 cm. The design includes a convenient microphone that allows you to get clear and high-quality sound. The battery has an increased battery life.
Advantages:
- 83x zoom;
- Support for stereo sound when recording video;
- Availability of many additional modules.
Flaws:
- Not touch screen;
- When performing continuous shooting, the memory buffer is small;
- Large dimensions for a compact device.
Nikon Coolpix P900
3. Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX30
This is one of the best digital cameras housed in a waterproof body. It is highly durable, resistant to dust and low temperatures. Such a device will be an excellent solution for those who prefer active recreation. The body is metal, the main control of the camera is carried out via a touch display located on the back of the device. There are several standard buttons, they are responsible only for the most basic functions - switching to video recording mode, turning on or off, and so on. On the end parts of the product there are connectors for connecting a USB cable and memory card. Together with the battery, the product weighs only 140 grams.
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Operating the device with gloves is not very convenient, since the sensor will not immediately respond to touch. You should be careful with the display, as if worn without a case, it will develop scratches after a few weeks. The matrix is designed for 18.2 megapixels, due to which it is possible to achieve excellent color rendition. The camera does not behave very well in low light conditions, but it can be immersed in water to a depth of 10 meters, and it is not afraid of falling from a height of up to one and a half meters. There is an LED lamp that allows for improved macro photography quality. The model turned out to be productive: it takes less than one second to prepare for use, and focusing in automatic mode also works very quickly.
Advantages:
- Compact overall dimensions;
- High quality shooting in any mode;
- Availability of a touch display;
- Waterproof housing.
Flaws:
- There are no Wi-Fi and GPS modules;
- Weak battery;
- The screen is prone to damage.
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX30
Leica XU (Typ 113)
The model belongs to protected cameras that perfectly withstand exposure to low temperatures, falls from heights, and immersion in water, although this in no way affected the appearance of this device. The matrix has a resolution of 16.5 megapixels, the focal length is 23 mm. Light sensitivity can be adjusted if necessary, the same applies to the shutter speed - the maximum setting is 1/2000 of a second. In burst mode, the camera produces 5 frames per second. On the back there is a three-inch diagonal LCD screen with a resolution of 920 thousand dots. SD memory cards are used to store images and videos.
The battery is quite capacious - one full charge will be enough for 450 shots. The camera turned out to be heavy - 635 grams, so holding it with one hand will be very uncomfortable. The lens is not sensitive to glare, color rendition is accurate, the same can be said about the detail of frames, even when there is a lack of natural light.
Advantages:
- Excellent build quality, like other cameras of this brand;
- Good lens, insensitive to glare;
- Convenient controls that even a novice photographer can understand;
- It is possible to record video in Full HD format.
Flaws:
- You won’t be able to customize the controls;
- Buffer memory is small;
- High price.
Leica XU (Typ 113)
Nikon Coolpix AW 130
This model has become a leader in our review of the best digital cameras due to a number of useful functions and additional features. It has all the necessary built-in modules, separate buttons to control them, as well as a water- and dust-proof case that allows you to immerse the device in water to a depth of 30 meters. There is a convenient bulge on the right side of the camera for one-handed grip. The lens is framed with a special hood that will protect it if the camera falls. There is an NFC module, thanks to which the camera will quickly connect with any other device.
The camera allows you to take beautiful pictures both in bright light and in low light, and in the latter case it is possible to photograph the subject with excellent detail. You can get sharper shots, but this will negatively affect color reproduction. The camera has an excellent price-quality ratio, which largely determined its leadership in our review.
Advantages:
- Reasonable cost;
- High build quality;
- Stunning images with natural color reproduction.
Flaws:
- The latches are too tight.
Nikon Coolpix AW 130
