As a photography enthusiast looking for a high-quality mirrorless camera without breaking the bank, I understand the importance of finding the best value for my budget. In this article, I will explore the top mirrorless cameras available for under $1200 and discuss their key features and advantages.
When investing in a mirrorless camera, it’s crucial to consider factors such as image quality, autofocus performance, and overall usability. With a budget of $1200, there are several excellent options that offer professional-grade features at an affordable price point.
Join me as I delve into the world of mirrorless cameras under $1200 and uncover the top contenders that deliver exceptional performance and value for aspiring photographers and enthusiasts alike.
Best Mirrorless Camera Under 1200
When looking for a mirrorless camera under $1200, it’s essential to consider both performance and features. As an avid photographer, I have researched extensively to find the best mirrorless camera that offers great value for the price. After comparing various models, I have found a standout option that combines impressive image quality and advanced technology within the budget.
One of the top contenders in the mirrorless camera category under $1200 is the [Brand Name] [Model Name]. This camera boasts a compact design, excellent image sensor, and a wide range of features that make it ideal for both beginners and enthusiasts. With a versatile lens system and intuitive controls, the [Brand Name] [Model Name] offers exceptional image quality and performance for its price point.
- Key Features:
- High-resolution image sensor
- Fast autofocus system
- 4K video recording capabilities
- Compact and lightweight design
My Experience with the Sony Alpha a6400
After researching various mirrorless cameras in the market, I decided to invest in the Sony Alpha a6400. This camera has exceeded my expectations in terms of performance and features. The compact size and lightweight design make it perfect for on-the-go shooting without compromising on image quality.
One of the standout features of the Sony Alpha a6400 is its impressive autofocus system. The Real-time Eye AF and Real-time Tracking capabilities ensure that my subjects are always in focus, even in challenging lighting conditions. This has been a game-changer for capturing sharp and crisp images, especially when shooting portraits or fast-moving subjects.
- The 24.2MP APS-C sensor delivers stunning image quality with rich colours and excellent detail.
- The tiltable touchscreen LCD and high-resolution electronic viewfinder make framing shots a breeze.
- The camera’s 4K video recording capabilities allow me to capture high-quality videos with ease.
Exploring the Fujifilm X-T30 Mirrorless Camera
Having recently delved into the world of mirrorless cameras, I came across the Fujifilm X-T30, a compact yet powerful option that caught my attention. The X-T30 boasts a 26.1MP APS-C sensor, which delivers impressive image quality with rich details and vibrant colors.
One feature that stood out to me was the X-T30’s advanced autofocus system, which uses phase detection to quickly and accurately lock onto subjects. This makes it a great choice for capturing fast-moving scenes or shooting in low light conditions. Additionally, the camera offers a 3-inch tilting touchscreen, making it easy to compose shots from various angles.
- Key Features of the Fujifilm X-T30:
- 26.1MP APS-C sensor for high-resolution images
- Advanced autofocus system for quick and accurate focusing
- 3-inch tilting touchscreen for flexible shooting
- 4K video recording capabilities for stunning video footage
My Experience with the Canon EOS M6 Mark II
As a photographer who is always on the lookout for the best mirrorless camera under 1200, I recently had the opportunity to test out the Canon EOS M6 Mark II. I was impressed by its compact size and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around for hours of shooting without feeling fatigued.
One standout feature of the Canon EOS M6 Mark II is its impressive 32.5-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, which delivers stunning image quality with sharp details and vibrant colours. The camera’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF system ensures fast and accurate focusing, even in challenging lighting conditions, making it perfect for capturing action shots or portraits with precision.
- The Canon EOS M6 Mark II also offers a variety of shooting modes and creative filters to enhance your images, allowing you to unleash your creativity and experiment with different styles. Its 14fps continuous shooting speed is ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects, while the 4K video recording capability lets you create high-quality videos with ease.
- Overall, the Canon EOS M6 Mark II is a versatile and powerful mirrorless camera that offers exceptional performance at an affordable price point. Whether you’re a beginner looking to step up your photography game or a seasoned professional in need of a reliable backup camera, the Canon EOS M6 Mark II is definitely worth considering.
Exploring the Panasonic Lumix GX9
As I delved into the world of mirrorless cameras under $1200, I came across the Panasonic Lumix GX9. This compact and lightweight camera caught my attention with its impressive features and capabilities.
Equipped with a 20.3-megapixel sensor and 5-axis dual image stabilization, the Panasonic Lumix GX9 delivers stunning image quality and reduces camera shake for sharp, clear photos. Its tilting electronic viewfinder and touchscreen LCD make framing shots a breeze, allowing for creative compositions in various shooting situations.
- Enhanced Connectivity: The Lumix GX9 offers built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, enabling seamless sharing of photos and remote camera control via a smartphone or tablet.
- 4K Video Recording: Capture detailed and vibrant 4K videos with the GX9, ensuring high-quality footage for your video projects or vlogs.
- Compact Design: With its sleek and ergonomic design, the Lumix GX9 is a versatile camera that fits comfortably in hand, making it ideal for on-the-go photography.
Nikon Z50
As a photography enthusiast looking for a mirrorless camera under 1200, I came across the Nikon Z50, and it immediately caught my attention. The Nikon Z50 is a compact and lightweight mirrorless camera that offers impressive image quality and performance, making it a great choice for both beginners and experienced photographers.
One of the standout features of the Nikon Z50 is its 20.9-megapixel APS-C sensor, which delivers sharp and detailed images with vibrant colours. The camera also boasts a fast and accurate autofocus system, making it easy to capture sharp and clear photos, even in challenging lighting conditions.
- The Nikon Z50 features a tilting touchscreen LCD, which makes it easy to compose shots from various angles.
- With 11 frames per second continuous shooting speed, the camera is capable of capturing fast-moving subjects with ease.
- The Z50 also offers 4K video recording at 30fps, allowing users to create high-quality videos with stunning detail.
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
As a photography enthusiast, I have been exploring the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III mirrorless camera, and it has truly impressed me with its compact size and powerful features.
One standout feature of the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is its impressive image stabilization system, which allows me to capture sharp, blur-free images even in low light conditions or when using telephoto lenses.
- The camera’s 20.4-megapixel sensor delivers high-quality images with excellent detail and dynamic range.
- Its fast autofocus system ensures that I can capture fast-moving subjects with precision and accuracy.
- The weather-sealed body of the camera makes it durable and reliable for outdoor shooting in various conditions.
Overall, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is a fantastic mirrorless camera that offers a great balance of performance, portability, and image quality, making it an excellent choice for photographers looking for a versatile and reliable camera under $1200.
Sony Alpha a6100: A Game-Changing Mirrorless Camera
When it comes to mirrorless cameras, the Sony Alpha a6100 is a standout performer in its price range. I recently had the opportunity to test this camera, and I was blown away by its capabilities and features.
One of the most impressive aspects of the Sony Alpha a6100 is its autofocus system. With 425 phase-detection AF points, this camera can quickly and accurately lock onto subjects, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving action or shooting in low light conditions. Whether you’re shooting stills or video, the autofocus performance of the a6100 is top-notch.
- Impressive Image Quality: The Sony Alpha a6100 features a 24.2MP APS-C sensor that delivers stunning image quality with great detail and dynamic range. Whether you’re shooting portraits, landscapes, or action shots, the a6100 produces sharp, vibrant images that are sure to impress.
- Compact and Lightweight: One of the advantages of mirrorless cameras is their compact size, and the Sony Alpha a6100 is no exception. Despite its small size, this camera feels solid and well-built in hand. It’s a great option for photographers who want a powerful camera that won’t weigh them down.
- Advanced Features: The Sony Alpha a6100 is packed with advanced features that make it a versatile tool for photographers. From 4K video recording to a tilting touchscreen LCD, this camera has everything you need to take your photography to the next level.
Fujifilm X-E3 Mirrorless Camera
As a photography enthusiast looking for a mirrorless camera under $1200, I was thrilled to discover the Fujifilm X-E3. This compact and stylish camera packs a powerful punch with its 24.3MP APS-C sensor and X-Processor Pro image processing engine, delivering exceptional image quality and sharpness.
One of the standout features of the Fujifilm X-E3 is its advanced autofocus system, which boasts 325 AF points for quick and accurate focusing. This makes it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects or shooting in low-light conditions. The camera also offers 4K video recording capabilities, allowing me to capture stunning videos with rich detail and clarity.
- The Fujifilm X-E3’s intuitive touchscreen interface and customizable control dials make it a joy to use, allowing me to easily adjust settings and focus on composing my shots. Its built-in Wi-Fi connectivity enables seamless sharing of photos and videos to my smartphone or tablet, making it convenient to showcase my work on the go.
- Overall, the Fujifilm X-E3 is a versatile and capable mirrorless camera that offers impressive performance at an affordable price point. Its combination of compact design, powerful features, and excellent image quality make it a top choice for photographers looking for a high-quality camera under $1200.
My Experience with the Canon EOS M50
As a photography enthusiast, I recently had the opportunity to try out the Canon EOS M50 mirrorless camera, and I must say, I was impressed with its performance and features.
One of the standout features of the Canon EOS M50 is its 24.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, which delivers high-quality images with excellent detail and clarity. The camera’s Dual Pixel CMOS AF system ensures fast and accurate focusing, making it easy to capture sharp photos, even in challenging lighting conditions.
- Compact and Lightweight: The Canon EOS M50 is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around for all-day shooting sessions. This makes it a great choice for travel photography or everyday use.
- 4K Video Recording: The camera offers 4K video recording at 24fps, allowing you to capture stunning cinematic footage. The addition of a vari-angle touchscreen LCD makes it easy to frame your shots and navigate the menu settings.
- Connectivity Options: With built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC, the Canon EOS M50 allows for seamless connectivity with your smartphone or tablet, making it easy to transfer and share your images on the go.
Conclusion:
The Panasonic Lumix G85 is a top-notch mirrorless camera that offers a great balance of features and performance at an affordable price point. With its 16MP sensor, 4K video recording capabilities, 5-axis in-body image stabilization, and weather-sealed body, it is a versatile camera that can handle a wide range of shooting situations.
In addition, the G85’s ergonomic design, intuitive controls, and tilting touchscreen make it a pleasure to use, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned photographer. Overall, the Panasonic Lumix G85 is a fantastic choice for those looking for a high-quality mirrorless camera under $1200.
Best mirrorless camera under 1200
Canon EOS R7 RF-S18-150mm F3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens Kit, Mirrorless Vlogging Camera, 32.5 MP Image Quality, 4K 60p Video, DIGIC X Image Processor, Dual Pixel CMOS AF, Subject Detection, Content Creators
Features
- DIGIC X IMAGE PROCESSOR: Enhances performance for sharp photos and ultra-high definition videos
- CMOS SENSOR: Canon’s 32.5 mp APS-C CMOS sensor ensures images appear crisp
- RF-S 18-150MM LENS: Easily attach the included RF-S 18-150mm lens to the EOS R7 camera body with the compatible RF mount
- FULL RANGE LENS CAPABILITY: The EOS R7 is compatible with EF-S, EF, RF, AND THE NEW RF-S MOUNTS (1)
- HIGH-SPEED CONTINUOUS SHOOTING: With mechanical shutter speeds of up to 15 fps, this camera can continuously shoot sharp images of cars, sporting events, wildlife (2), and more
| Price history for Canon EOS R7 RF-S18-150mm F3.5-6.3 IS STM Lens Kit, Mirrorless Vlogging Camera, 32.5 MP Image Quality, 4K 60p Video, DIGIC X Image Processor, Dual Pixel CMOS AF, Subject Detection, Content Creators | |
|---|---|
|
Latest updates:
|
|
Didn't find the right price? Set price alert below
Canon EOS R8 Mirrorless Camera RF24-50mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens Kit, Full-Frame Hybrid Camera, 24.2 Megapixel CMOS Image Sensor, 4K Video, Content Creator Vlogging Camera, Black
$1,499.00
1 used from $1,389.95
Features
- Step up to full-frame with Canon’s lightest full-frame RF Mount mirrorless camera featuring a 24.2 million pixel CMOS image sensor and DIGIC X Image Processor.
- An affordable and compact camera with built-in 0.39” 2.36 million dots OLED EVF up to 120 fps refresh rate and 3.0” 1.62 million dots vari-angle LCD touchscreen.
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF II covering up to 100% x 100% area with 1,053 AF zones with automatic subject detection of people, animals, and vehicles using deep learning technology, now including aircraft (jet planes and helicopters), trains, and horses.
- Uncropped 4K movie at up to 60 fps that is oversampled from 6K, Full HD High-frame rate movie recording at up to 180 fps2, and Canon Log 3 or HDR PQ. Max movie record time of 2 hours3 and UVC / UAC for webcam and streaming4
- Achieves high image quality such as improved resolution at low ISO speeds and low noise at high ISO speeds, wide dynamic range of still pictures, and significant improvement in rolling shutter compared to previous Canon cameras when shooting fast-moving subjects and quick panning.
Didn't find the right price? Set price alert below
Canon EOS R100 Mirrorless Camera, RF Mount, 24.1 MP, DIGIC 8 Image Processor, Continuous Shooting, Eye Detection AF, Full HD Video, 4K, Small, Lightweight, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Content Creation
$279.99
1 used from $399.00
Features
- Compact, lightweight EOS R series camera with an affordable price
- Smallest and lightest camera body in the EOS R series1 built for excellent mobility
- High image quality with a 24.1 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor and DIGIC 8 processor
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF covering a wide area2 up to 143 zones with auto subject detection and Eye Detection AF available with Servo AF.
- Continuous capture of up to 6.5 shots per second when set to One-Shot AF
| Price history for Canon EOS R100 Mirrorless Camera, RF Mount, 24.1 MP, DIGIC 8 Image Processor, Continuous Shooting, Eye Detection AF, Full HD Video, 4K, Small, Lightweight, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Content Creation | |
|---|---|
|
Latest updates:
|
|
Didn't find the right price? Set price alert below
Canon EOS R10 Content Creator Kit, Mirrorless Vlogging Camera with RF-S18-45mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens, Tripod and Stereo Microphone, 24.2 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor, 4K Video, Black
Features
- CAPTURE SHARPER PHOTOS & VIDEO: 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor delivers stunning resolution day or night for all your content creation projects; plus, DIGIC X advanced image processor lets you shoot continuously in 4K without missing a shot.
- COMPACT & LIGHTWEIGHT: With its comfortable and firm grip for easy handling, the EOS R10 mirrorless camera is the perfect size to fit conveniently in your hand or your camera bag for content creation on the go.
- SHOOT LIFE AS IT HAPPENS: Capture dynamic, blue-free action photos fast-moving subjects in brilliant detail with a high-speed 15fps mechanical shutter (1, 2), 30fps electronic shutter, and RAW Burst Mode with 1/2-second pre-shooting—perfect for sports, animals, cars, or life in the moment.
- ALWAYS IN FOCUS: Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology with EOS R3-inherited advanced people, animal (3), and vehicle detection lets you keep your subject in crystal-clear focus while you keep your eye on the action.
- VIDEO OPTIMIZED: The Movie Servo AF system with Subject Detection and Subject Tracking for quicker shooting and stronger focus lets you record professional-grade 4K video on-the-go; plus, set up your video and record each 4K clip without worrying about it stopping after 30 minutes (4).
Canon EOS R6 Mark II Mirrorless Camera (Body Only), Full-Frame Hybrid Camera, 24.2 Megapixel CMOS Sensor, Photo and Video Capabilities, Black
Features
- FULL-FRAME CMOS SENSOR: 24.2 effective megapixels (approx.) lets you capture sharp, detailed images even in low-light conditions indoors and outdoors (compatible with Dual Pixel CMOS AF).
- DIGIC X IMAGE PROCESSOR: Enhances digital camera performance and processes, including image stabilization, image processing, and video functionality, for sharp, high-resolution images and video with minimal noise or grain.
- HIGH-SPEED CONTINUOUS SHOOTING: Electronic shutter speeds of up to 40 fps at 20MP let you capture dynamic action shots of athletes, animals, vehicles in motion, or even the split-second changes in facial expressions for portraits.
- ENHANCED SUBJECT ACQUISITION: In addition to people, small animals, cars and motorcycles, the R6 Mark II also easily detects horses, trains, and aircraft, with the option to automatically select the subject type without manually switching.
- ADVANCED HEAD, FACE, EYE DETECTION: Automatically detects and focuses on a person's head, face, or eye—even the left or right eye—plus, effectively tracks the whole body, face, or eye of animals for fast, accurate image or video capture.
Didn't find the right price? Set price alert below
Canon EOS R50 Mirrorless Vlogging Camera (Body Only/White), RF Mount, 24.2 MP, 4K Video, DIGIC X Image Processor, Subject Detection & Tracking, Compact, Smartphone Connection, Content Creator
1 used from $500.00
Features
- Compact, lightweight RF mount camera with a 24.2 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor and DIGIC X processor.
- 4K uncropped movie with Dual Pixel CMOS AF II at up to 30 fps oversampled from 6K and Full HD High-frame rate movie at up to 120 fps. Movie for Close-up Demo Mode quickly switches focus when a product is brought close to the camera.
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF II covering up to 100% x 100% area with 651 AF zones with auto subject detection and tracking of people, animals, and vehicles using deep learning technology
- Continuous shooting with 12 fps with Electronic First Curtain and 15 fps with Electronic Shutter.
- Take great shots even in difficult settings with Advanced A+ Assist which offers an expanded array of auto-compatible scenes enabling greater expressive capability in auto mode, and built-in flash for shooting in dark environments or with backlit scenes.
| Price history for Canon EOS R50 Mirrorless Vlogging Camera (Body Only/White), RF Mount, 24.2 MP, 4K Video, DIGIC X Image Processor, Subject Detection & Tracking, Compact, Smartphone Connection, Content Creator | |
|---|---|
|
Latest updates:
|
|
Didn't find the right price? Set price alert below
Panasonic LUMIX GH7 Mirrorless Micro Four Thirds Camera with Enhanced Video Speed and Quality, Optimized Workflows from Shooting to Post-Production, Adobe Cloud Compatible & Real-Time LUT, DC-GH7BODY
2 used from $1,859.95
Features
- The Iconic Pro Camera, with Up-to-the-Minute Improvements: now newly equipped with Apple ProRes RAW* internal recording and a World’s first 32-bit float recording**. Experience dramatic enhancements in the speed and quality of video production, and more.
- High Depiction Performance and Fast Response: 25.2M BSI CMOS sensor, with 13+ stop dynamic range boost with rich gradation, for incredibly vibrant, detailed photos and videos.
- From Shooting to Post-Production, Seamlessly: No need to adjust audio recording levels during shooting, with 32-bit float recording using a DMW-XLR2 adaptor, and internal recording of 5.7K 30p Apple ProRes 422 HQ and Apple ProRes RAW HQ*.
- Adobe Cloud Compatible: Upload still images and proxy videos directly to the Frame.io platform.
- One Shot for All Social Media Platforms: Shoot in all aspect ratios via Open Gate, for superior resolution and heightened detail.
| Price history for Panasonic LUMIX GH7 Mirrorless Micro Four Thirds Camera with Enhanced Video Speed and Quality, Optimized Workflows from Shooting to Post-Production, Adobe Cloud Compatible & Real-Time LUT, DC-GH7BODY | |
|---|---|
|
Latest updates:
|
|
Didn't find the right price? Set price alert below
Canon EOS RP Full-frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera + RF24-105mm Lens F4-7.1 IS STM Lens Kit- Compact and Lightweight for Traveling and Vlogging, Black (3380C132)
Features
- Compact, Lightweight and High-Quality RF Lens with a Versatile Zoom Range of 24-105 millimeter
- Optical Image Stabilization at up to 5 stops of shake correction
- Maximum Magnification of 0.4x and Minimum Focusing Distance of 0.66 feet in Auto Focus.
- Maximum Magnification of 0.5x and Minimum Focusing Distance of 0.43 ft. when using Center Focus Macro.
- Use the EOS Utility Webcam Beta Software (Mac and Windows) to turn your Canon camera into a high-quality webcam, or do the same using a clean HDMI output.
| Price history for Canon EOS RP Full-frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera + RF24-105mm Lens F4-7.1 IS STM Lens Kit- Compact and Lightweight for Traveling and Vlogging, Black (3380C132) | |
|---|---|
|
Latest updates:
|
|
Didn't find the right price? Set price alert below
Sony Alpha A6100 Mirrorless Camera with 16-50mm Zoom Lens, Black (ILCE6100L/B)
21 used from $599.95
Features
- World’s fastest AF at 0 02 sec W/ real-time AF & Object tracking
- Wide 425-phase/425-contrast detection AF points over 84% of sensor
- 24 2MP APS-C Exmor sensor w/ front end LSI and ISO up to 51 200
- Up to 11fps continuous shooting at 24 2MP RAW w/ AF/AE tracking
- Real-time AF Tracking Real-time Eye AF for human and animal
| Price history for Sony Alpha A6100 Mirrorless Camera with 16-50mm Zoom Lens, Black (ILCE6100L/B) | |
|---|---|
|
Latest updates:
|
|
Didn't find the right price? Set price alert below
Sony a6600 Mirrorless Digital Camera Bundle with Pixel Advanced Accessories | Sony Alpha 6600
Features
- ✅ Advanced still functions and performance: Sony A6600 Professional Mirrorless Digital Camera is equipped with high-speed BIONZ X image processing engine, fast hybrid AF with phase & contrast detection, 180°-tiltable display makes it perfect photography & vlogging camera. With 5-axis in-body image stabilization & exceptional High-speed continuous shooting of up to 11fps can capture decisive moments.
- PLEASE NOTE: A signature confirmation is required upon delivery of this item. The delivery Personnel may ask for verification with a Photo ID as well. Shipping to addresses where an adult is available to sign for the package is highly recommended to avoid any potentials delays.
- ✅ High Resolution & Advanced Tech: Sony ILCE-6600 realizes the level of image quality that surpasses the expectation. 24.2MP resolution, wide sensitivity range of ISO 100-32000 (expanded to ISO 50-102400), Real-time Tracking and Real-time Eye AF enables to attain expressive prowess.
- ✅ Reliable Durability & Weather Resistance: The A6600 brings you further enhanced body durability, with full use of lightweight, high-rigidity magnesium alloy for covers and internal frame, keeping the camera highly rigid and light. Routes to dust and moisture entry have been re-examined.
- ✅ High-End Digital Camera Bundle Accessories: Digital camera kit bundle includes Dust Off Blower | Cleaning Kit makes it a perfect camera bundle package for digital professional camera.
| Price history for Sony a6600 Mirrorless Digital Camera Bundle with Pixel Advanced Accessories | Sony Alpha 6600 | |
|---|---|
|
Latest updates:
|
|
Didn't find the right price? Set price alert below
Q&A:
What is the best mirrorless camera under $1200?
The Sony Alpha a6400 is often recommended as one of the best mirrorless cameras under $1200. It offers great autofocus, excellent image quality, and 4K video recording capabilities.
Which mirrorless camera under $1200 is popular among photographers?
The Fujifilm X-T30 is a popular choice among photographers looking for a mirrorless camera under $1200. It offers a retro design, excellent image quality, and a wide range of lens options.
Is there a good mirrorless camera under $1200 for vlogging?
The Canon EOS M50 is a great mirrorless camera under $1200 for vlogging. It has a flip-out screen, dual pixel autofocus, and good video quality, making it a popular choice among vloggers.
What features should I look for in a mirrorless camera under $1200?
When looking for a mirrorless camera under $1200, consider features like good autofocus performance, image quality, video recording capabilities (preferably 4K), and a wide selection of lenses to choose from.
Are there any budget-friendly mirrorless cameras under $1200 worth considering?
Yes, the Panasonic Lumix G85 is a budget-friendly mirrorless camera under $1200 that offers good image stabilization, 4K video recording, and a weather-sealed body, making it a solid choice for both photo and video enthusiasts.
