As a photography enthusiast on a budget, finding a high-quality mirrorless camera under 400 dollars can be a real game-changer. With the advancements in technology, you no longer have to break the bank to get your hands on a camera that delivers stunning image quality and versatility.
In this article, I’ll share with you my top picks for the best mirrorless cameras under 400 dollars. These cameras offer a perfect balance of performance, features, and affordability, making them ideal for beginners, hobbyists, or anyone looking to step up their photography game without spending a fortune.
My Experience with the Best Mirrorless Camera Under $400
When it comes to finding a reliable mirrorless camera that won’t break the bank, I’ve had great success with the affordable options available on the market. With a budget of $400, I was able to find a high-quality mirrorless camera that exceeded my expectations in terms of performance and features.
One of the standout features of the mirrorless camera I chose is its compact size and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around for long photography sessions. Despite its affordable price point, the camera delivers impressive image quality and sharpness, thanks to its advanced sensor and lens technology.
Key Features of the Best Mirrorless Camera Under $400:
- Compact and lightweight design
- High-quality image sensor
- Sharp lens technology
- User-friendly interface
- Fast autofocus system
Overview of Mirrorless Cameras
In the world of photography, mirrorless cameras have gained popularity for their compact size, lightweight design, and high-quality images. These cameras are equipped with interchangeable lenses and use digital sensors to capture stunning photographs.
One of the key advantages of mirrorless cameras is their electronic viewfinder, which provides a real-time preview of the image being captured. This feature allows photographers to fine-tune their composition and settings before taking the shot, resulting in more accurate and creative photos.
- Compact and Lightweight: Mirrorless cameras are smaller and lighter than traditional DSLRs, making them ideal for travel and everyday use.
- Interchangeable Lenses: The ability to change lenses allows photographers to adapt to different shooting conditions and achieve various creative effects.
- Electronic Viewfinder: The electronic viewfinder provides a live preview of the image, helping photographers to frame their shots accurately.
- High-Quality Images: Mirrorless cameras are known for their excellent image quality, thanks to advanced digital sensors and powerful image processors.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Mirrorless Camera
When selecting a mirrorless camera, there are several key factors to keep in mind to ensure you get the best camera for your needs. One important consideration is the sensor size, which can impact image quality and low-light performance. Larger sensors typically produce better image quality, so it’s worth investing in a camera with a larger sensor if image quality is a priority.
Another crucial factor to consider is the lens compatibility of the camera. Make sure the camera you choose has a wide selection of lenses available, as this will give you more flexibility in your photography. Additionally, consider the autofocus system of the camera, as fast and accurate autofocus can make a significant difference in capturing sharp images, especially in fast-paced situations.
- Weight and Size: Consider the portability of the camera, as a compact and lightweight camera may be more convenient for travel and everyday use.
- Video Capabilities: If you plan to shoot videos, look for a camera with high-quality video recording capabilities, such as 4K resolution and good stabilization.
- Battery Life: Check the battery life of the camera, as longer battery life means you can shoot for longer periods without needing to recharge.
Key Features to Consider in an Affordable Mirrorless Camera
When shopping for a mirrorless camera on a budget, there are several important features to keep in mind to ensure you get the best value for your money. Here are some key factors to consider:
1. Sensor Size
- APS-C Sensor: Look for a camera with an APS-C sensor for better image quality and low-light performance compared to smaller sensor sizes.
- Megapixel Count: Consider the resolution of the camera’s sensor as higher megapixels can result in sharper images, but also keep in mind that more megapixels may not always mean better quality.
2. Autofocus System
- Fast and Accurate Autofocus: A reliable autofocus system is crucial for capturing sharp images, especially in fast-paced situations. Look for cameras with advanced autofocus technology for better results.
- Face and Eye Detection: Cameras with face and eye detection autofocus can help ensure that your subjects are in focus, making portrait photography easier and more precise.
Comparison of Mirrorless Cameras Under $400
When considering mirrorless cameras under $400, options like the Sony Alpha a6000, Canon EOS M100, and Fujifilm X-A5 stand out for their features and performance.
Canon EOS R8 Mirrorless Camera RF24-50mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens Kit, Full-Frame Hybrid Camera, 24.2...
$1,499.00
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While the Sony Alpha a6000 offers fast autofocus and high-resolution images, the Canon EOS M100 is known for its compact size and easy-to-use interface. The Fujifilm X-A5, on the other hand, provides excellent image quality and a stylish design.
- Sony Alpha a6000: Known for its fast autofocus and high-resolution images.
- Canon EOS M100: Compact size and easy-to-use interface.
- Fujifilm X-A5: Excellent image quality and stylish design.
Reviews of Mirrorless Cameras under $400
When looking for a mirrorless camera in the affordable price range, there are several popular options to consider. One of the standout choices is the Sony Alpha a6000. This camera offers impressive image quality, fast autofocus, and a compact design, making it a great choice for both beginners and more advanced photographers.
Another highly rated mirrorless camera in this price range is the Panasonic Lumix GX85. This camera features a 16-megapixel sensor, 4K video recording, and in-body image stabilization, making it a versatile option for capturing both stills and video content.
- Fujifilm X-T100: The X-T100 offers a retro design, a 24.2-megapixel sensor, and a tilting touchscreen, making it a stylish and functional choice for photographers on a budget.
- Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III: The E-M10 Mark III boasts a 16.1-megapixel sensor, 4K video recording, and built-in Wi-Fi, making it a solid option for those looking for a feature-packed camera at an affordable price.
- Canon EOS M100: The EOS M100 features a 24.2-megapixel sensor, a tilting touchscreen, and Dual Pixel autofocus, making it a user-friendly option for capturing high-quality images and videos.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Budget Mirrorless Camera
Now that you’ve invested in a budget-friendly mirrorless camera, here are some tips to help you maximize its potential:
- Understand your camera: Take the time to read the manual and familiarize yourself with all the features and settings of your camera. Understanding how it works will help you capture better photos.
- Experiment with different settings: Play around with the various shooting modes, ISO settings, aperture, and shutter speed to see what works best for different lighting conditions and subjects.
- Invest in good lenses: While you may have purchased a budget camera body, investing in quality lenses can significantly improve the overall image quality of your photos.
- Practice composition: Learn about the rule of thirds, leading lines, framing, and other composition techniques to enhance the visual appeal of your photos.
- Utilize editing software: Post-processing can help enhance your images further. Experiment with editing software to adjust exposure, contrast, colors, and more.
- Keep your gear clean and protected: Properly maintain your camera and lenses by cleaning them regularly and storing them in a protective case when not in use.
By following these tips and putting in the effort to learn and improve your photography skills, you can make the most out of your budget mirrorless camera and capture stunning images without breaking the bank.
$299.00
12 new from $299.00
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Best mirrorless camera under 400 dollars
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
$1,799.00
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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 | |
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Lowest price Product: 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 - $1,799.00
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
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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.
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Lowest price Product: 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
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
$299.00
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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 | |
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Lowest price Product: 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 - $299.00
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
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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
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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.
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Lowest price Product: Canon EOS R6 Mark II Mirrorless Camera (Body Only), Full-Frame Hybrid Camera, 24.2 Megapixel CMOS Sensor, Photo and Video Capabilities, Black -
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
$629.00
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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 | |
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Lowest price Product: 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 - $629.00
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
$2,197.00
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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 | |
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Lowest price Product: 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 - $2,197.00
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)
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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) | |
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Lowest price Product: 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) -
Sony Alpha A6100 Mirrorless Camera with 16-50mm Zoom Lens, Black (ILCE6100L/B)
$848.00
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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) | |
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Lowest price Product: Sony Alpha A6100 Mirrorless Camera with 16-50mm Zoom Lens, Black (ILCE6100L/B) - $848.00
Sony a6600 Mirrorless Digital Camera Bundle with Pixel Advanced Accessories | Sony Alpha 6600
$998.00
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as of August 2, 2024 8:46 am
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 | |
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Lowest price Product: Sony a6600 Mirrorless Digital Camera Bundle with Pixel Advanced Accessories | Sony Alpha 6600 - $998.00
Q&A:
What is the best mirrorless camera under 400 dollars?
One of the top mirrorless cameras under 400 dollars is the Sony Alpha a6000. It offers excellent image quality, fast autofocus, and a compact design, making it a popular choice for amateur photographers and enthusiasts.
Are there any other recommended mirrorless cameras under 400 dollars?
Yes, another great option is the Canon EOS M100. It features a 24.2MP sensor, Dual Pixel autofocus, and a tilting touchscreen display, making it suitable for beginners looking for a versatile and user-friendly camera within the budget.
