APS-C mirrorless cameras offer a great balance between image quality, portability, and affordability. They are ideal for hobbyists, enthusiasts, and even professionals who prioritize a lightweight system but still want strong performance. Here are some of the best APS-C mirrorless cameras across different brands:
1. Fujifilm X-T5
- Sensor: 40MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS 5 HR
- Video: 6.2K at 30fps, 4K at 60fps
- Autofocus: Intelligent hybrid AF system with phase and contrast detection
- Pros:
- High-resolution 40MP sensor, perfect for landscape, portrait, and detail-rich photography.
- Classic Fujifilm design with tactile dials and excellent build quality.
- 6.2K video with 10-bit 4:2:2 internal recording for serious videographers.
- Film simulation modes provide a unique creative flair.
- Lightweight and portable despite being feature-packed.
- Cons:
- No in-body image stabilization (IBIS).
- Best for: Advanced photographers and enthusiasts who prioritize image quality and love Fujifilm’s retro controls.
2. Sony A6700
- Sensor: 26MP APS-C BSI Exmor R CMOS Sensor
- Video: 4K at up to 120fps, 10-bit 4:2:2 internal recording
- Autofocus: Real-Time Tracking and Real-Time Eye AF for humans, animals, and birds
- Pros:
- Fast and accurate autofocus with excellent subject tracking and Real-Time Eye AF.
- Built-in IBIS, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light.
- Strong battery life compared to many mirrorless cameras in its class.
- Compact and portable with a durable weather-sealed body.
- Cons:
- Limited buffer for burst shooting, small EVF
- Best for: Travel, vlogging, and sports photography, thanks to its fast autofocus and compact design.
3. Sony A6600
- Sensor: 24.2MP APS-C Exmor CMOS
- Video: 4K at 30fps
- Autofocus: 425 phase-detection points with Real-Time Eye AF for humans and animals
- Pros:
- Fast and accurate autofocus with excellent subject tracking and Real-Time Eye AF.
- Built-in IBIS, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light.
- Strong battery life compared to many mirrorless cameras in its class.
- Compact and portable with a durable weather-sealed body.
- Cons:
- Relatively older model (launched in 2019) with fewer advanced video features compared to newer models.
- Best for: Travel, vlogging, and sports photography, thanks to its fast autofocus and compact design.
4. Canon EOS R7
- Sensor: 32.5MP APS-C CMOS
- Video: 4K at 60fps (oversampled from 7K), 1080p at 120fps
- Autofocus: Dual Pixel CMOS AF II with subject detection (humans, animals, vehicles)
- Pros:
- High-resolution sensor with exceptional detail, making it a great option for wildlife and sports photography.
- Fast burst shooting (up to 15fps with mechanical shutter, 30fps with electronic shutter).
- Advanced Dual Pixel AF II system with excellent subject tracking and eye detection.
- In-body image stabilization (IBIS) for smoother handheld shots.
- Cons:
- APS-C sensor in a camera body aimed at serious enthusiasts/professionals comes at a higher price.
- Best for: Wildlife and action photographers who need speed, resolution, and excellent autofocus in an APS-C package.
5. Nikon Z50
- Sensor: 20.9MP APS-C CMOS
- Video: 4K at 30fps, 1080p at 120fps
- Autofocus: Hybrid AF system with eye-detection AF
- Pros:
- Compact and lightweight, making it ideal for travel and everyday use.
- Great image quality despite having a lower resolution sensor compared to competitors.
- User-friendly interface and touchscreen controls.
- Solid autofocus performance with eye-detection AF.
- Cons:
- Limited lens options for Nikon Z APS-C mount (though full-frame Z lenses are compatible).
- No in-body image stabilization (IBIS).
- Best for: Travel and street photographers who want a versatile, affordable, and compact APS-C mirrorless camera.
6. Fujifilm X-S20
- Sensor: 26.1MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS 4
- Video: 6.2K at 30fps, 4K at 60fps
- Autofocus: Hybrid AF with subject detection
- Pros:
- Compact and lightweight, perfect for travel, vlogging, and everyday photography.
- Advanced video capabilities including 6.2K recording, making it great for hybrid shooters.
- Film simulation modes for creative color rendering.
- Improved battery life over the previous X-S10.
- Cons:
- Slightly smaller grip compared to other cameras in its class, which could be uncomfortable for larger hands.
- Best for: Hybrid content creators who need a balance between still photography and advanced video capabilities.
7. Canon EOS R10
- Sensor: 24.2MP APS-C CMOS
- Video: 4K at 60fps (slight crop), 1080p at 120fps
- Autofocus: Dual Pixel CMOS AF II with human, animal, and vehicle detection
- Pros:
- Affordable and lightweight, making it a great option for hobbyists and travelers.
- Excellent autofocus system with subject detection and tracking, inherited from Canon’s higher-end models.
- High burst rate (15fps with mechanical shutter, 23fps with electronic shutter), great for action and sports.
- Cons:
- No in-body image stabilization (IBIS).
- Best for: Beginners or enthusiasts looking for a lightweight APS-C camera with solid autofocus and video features at a reasonable price.
8. Sony A6400
- Sensor: 24.2MP APS-C Exmor CMOS
- Video: 4K at 30fps
- Autofocus: 425 phase-detection AF points with Real-Time Eye AF and Real-Time Tracking
- Pros:
- Very fast and accurate autofocus system, great for both stills and video.
- Compact and lightweight, perfect for travel and vlogging.
- Flip-up touchscreen for selfies or vlogging.
- Cons:
- No in-body image stabilization (IBIS).
- Best for: Vloggers, content creators, and casual photographers who want great autofocus in a small package.
9. Nikon Z fc
- Sensor: 20.9MP APS-C CMOS
- Video: 4K at 30fps
- Autofocus: Hybrid AF with eye-detection AF
- Pros:
- Retro design with tactile dials, reminiscent of Nikon’s classic film cameras.
- Compact and lightweight, great for everyday photography.
- Solid autofocus performance with eye-detection AF.
- Great for photographers who appreciate both style and performance.
- Cons:
- No in-body image stabilization (IBIS).
- Best for: Photographers looking for a stylish, retro-inspired APS-C camera with modern performance.
Conclusion
- Fujifilm X-T5 and Canon EOS R7 stand out for advanced photographers needing high resolution and fast burst rates.
- Sony A6700 and Fujifilm X-S20 are great for hybrid shooters who need portability with excellent autofocus and video features.
- Canon EOS R10 and Nikon Z50 provide a balance of affordability and performance, ideal for enthusiasts and travel photographers.