The Best Camera in 2022: Best Camera Right Now
Best Camera - The Best Cameras in 2022, Best Camera For Photographer, Best Camera For Travel Lover, Here are the best cameras for the money
Best Camera: It's easy because almost every camera nowadays is an incredible shooting machine loaded with photographic technology that helps you capture the best of pictures. There are 17 options on our list of the best cameras, and each one of them comes highly recommended.
But it's also hard because there are just so many options and in so many different forms. Mirrorless cameras and DSLRs increasingly offer useful features like high-resolution sensors, incredible autofocus speeds, and in-body image stabilization. Many action cameras can now shoot 5K (or higher) video. Compact cameras are smaller and better than ever; Instant cameras are much sweeter and more fun. There are also sub-categories such as the best cameras for vlogging to consider.
And you have to take cost into account, too: The best cheap cameras can cost under $100, while a full-frame mirrorless model can set you back $10,000.
As a result, "best camera" is a very subjective term - but within each type of camera, there are some models that are better than others. We evaluated them for picture and video quality, handling, features, and value to come up with our recommendations.
What are the best cameras?
Best Camera: We think the best camera for most people is the Sony Alpha a6100. This mirrorless camera is compact, shoots excellent photos and videos, and can be had for around $750 with a 16-50mm lens. The Sony a6100 has a 24MP sensor, records fast 4K video, and has a fast autofocus system. Its battery life is a reasonable 420 shots, but you'll want to invest in a spare battery if you plan on using it a lot.
If you are looking for a DSLR camera, we think the best option for most people is the Canon EOS Rebel T8i; This midrange camera boasts a 24-megapixel sensor, a wide ISO range (100-25600, expandable to 51,200), and a pretty well-rated battery life of up to 1240 shots. It has several built-in guides to help beginners, and can record video at 4K/24 fps; Still rare for a DSLR in this price range. What's more, the T8i can record video vertically and has a microphone jack, so you can get better audio.
If you like Nikons, we suggest the D5600, which also takes excellent photos, handles well and has a 3.2-inch swiveling touchscreen. It's great for experienced photographers looking for full-featured manual controls, while also including several helpful shooting modes to help teach and educate beginners. However, because the D5600 is a bit older, it can only capture video at a maximum resolution of 1080p/60 FPS. We expect its successor, the D5700, sometime this year.
Read on for all our top picks for the best cameras.
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Top 10 Best Camera Right Now
1. Sony a6100 - The Best Cameras in 2022
2. Canon EOS Rebel T8i - The Best Cameras in 2022
3. Nikon D5600 - The Best Cameras in 2022
4. Canon EOS Rebel SL3 - The Best Cameras in 2022
5. Nikon D3500 - The Best Cameras in 2022
6. Sony Alpha a6600 - The Best Cameras in 2022
7. Nikon D500 - The Best Cameras in 2022
8. Sony ZV-1 - The Best Cameras in 2022
9. Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W800 - The Best Cameras in 2022
10. Sony A7 II - The Best Cameras in 2022
1. Sony a6100 - The Best Cameras in 2022
The best camera for most people
Pros
- Amazing Performance
- Superfast, AI-driven autofocus system
- Sharp HD and 4K video
- External mic jack
Cons
- Sprawling menu system
- Poorly placed video-record button
| Sony a6100 Specification | |
|---|---|
| Megapixels | 24.2 |
| ISO | 100- 25,600 |
| Shooting Speed | 11 fps |
| Body size/weight | 4.75 x 2.75 x 2.13 inches; 1 pound |
| Viewfinder | OLED |
| Screen | 2.95-inch touchscreen LCD |
| Battery Life (CIPA) | 420 shots |
Best Camera: With its excellent image quality, great feature set, and cheap price, the Sony a6100 is not only the best mirrorless camera out there - it's also the best camera overall.
The a6100 is compact and well built with excellent ergonomics: it will fit comfortably in your hand and all the controls are easy to reach. In our testing, we were also impressed with the Sony a6100's ability to take sharp, clear photos, no matter the situation; Its intelligent, fast autofocus certainly helped, as did its 11fps shooting speed. Plus, with a rated battery life of 420 shots, you should be able to last a full day without needing a recharge.
The A6100 can also record 4K videos and has a microphone jack for better audio capture. However, if you want in-body image stabilization, you'll need to look at the Sony a6500 or a6600.
Still, it's a fair compromise—at a price of around $700—it's a photographic bargain.
2. Canon EOS Rebel T8i - The Best Cameras in 2022
Best DSLR for most people
Pros
- Amazing Performance
- Records 4K video
- Easy to use
- Good guides for newbies
Cons
- No USB charging
| Canon EOS Rebel T8i Specification | |
|---|---|
| Megapixels | 24.1 MP APS-C |
| Lens Type | Interchangeable |
| ISO Range | ISO 100-25600 |
| Image Stabilization | In-lens |
| Autofocus | 45-point phase detection |
| Video (Max Resolution) | 4K at 24 fps |
| Shooting Speed | 7 fps |
| Display | 3.2-inch swiveling touchscreen |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 b,g and Bluetooth 4.1 |
| Battery Life | 1240 shots (viewfinder), 360 shots (live view) |
| Size/Weight | 5.16 x 4 x 3 inches/18.2 ounces |
Best Camera: If they are looking for a DSLR-style system then most casual photographers will find the Canon EOS Rebel T8i to be the best camera for them. Like its predecessors, the T8i takes excellent photos and has several handy built-in guides to help newbies learn the ins and outs of the camera.
The EOS Rebel T8i can also shoot video at a resolution of 4K; While the framerate is capped at 24 fps, it should be sufficient for those who want to capture high-quality movies. It also has a microphone jack for better audio and can shoot vertical video, which is ideal for social media.
3. Nikon D5600 - The Best Cameras in 2022
Best DSLR by Nikon under $1,000
Pros
- Responsive performance
- Top-notch image quality
- A solid set of practical and creative features
Cons
- No 4K video
- Minimal manual control for video
| Nikon D5600 Specification | |
|---|---|
| Megapixels | 24.2 MP CMOS DX-format sensor |
| Lens Type | Interchangeable |
| ISO Range | ISO 100-25600 |
| Image Stabilization | In-lens |
| Video (Max Resolution) | 1920 x 1080 at 60 fps |
| Shooting Speed | 5 fps |
| Display | 3.2-inch swiveling touchscreen |
| Wi-Fi | 802.11 b,g and Bluetooth 4.1 |
| Battery Life | 970 shots |
| Size/Weight | 4.9 x 3.8 x 2.8 inches/16.4 ounces |
Best Camera: Sporting a 24-megapixel sensor, a 3.2-inch swiveling touchscreen, and compatibility with a vast range of lenses, the Nikon D5600 is the best camera for most people looking for a Nikon DSLR. In our tests, we found that it took great pictures and has a nice wide usable ISO range. We also liked its battery life; Rated at 970 shots, we were able to easily make it through a day's shoot. With Nikon's traditional D-pad and multiple dials and knobs, it's great for experienced photographers looking for full-featured manual controls, while several helpful shooting modes to help teach and educate beginners are also included.
One question we have with the D5600 is that it can only capture video at a maximum resolution of 1080p/60 fps. However, it's not unreasonable for a camera at this price, and it has a dedicated microphone jack. Overall this is a great kit.
4. Canon EOS Rebel SL3 - The Best Cameras in 2022
4K video on a budget
Pros
- Amazing Performance
- 4K video
- Excellent battery life
- Fully articulated touchscreen
Cons
- Modest AF points
- Not compatible with 3rd-party flash units
| Canon EOS Rebel SL3 Specification | |
|---|---|
| Megapixels/sensor | 24.1 APS-C |
| ISO Range | 100-25,600 |
| Max Video Resolution | 4K/24 fps |
| Shooting Speed | 5 fps |
| Autofocus | 9-point phase detection |
| Display | 3-inch LCD |
| Battery Life | 1,000 shots |
| Ports | USB, Mini HDMI, mic |
| Card Slots | one SD/SDHC/SDXC |
| Size | 4.8 x 3.7 x 2.8 inches |
| Weight | 15.8 ounces |
Best Camera: At under $700—and that's with a lens—the Canon EOS Rebel SL3 is one of the least expensive DSLRs that can shoot 4K video. Beyond that, though, this camera, which is meant for beginners, is also very small and lightweight and has a bevy of in-camera guides to help novice shooters out. We also like the EOS Rebel SL3's artistic 3-inch touch screen, which makes it easy to take photos from odd angles.
In general, this camera takes good pictures and videos, but its internal image stabilization is only moderately effective, and its hot shoe doesn't work with third-party flash units. Plus, this model is for beginners, so it has a limited number of autofocus points, and shooting speeds are pretty slow. But, for the price, this is a great DSLR for those new to photography.
5. Nikon D3500 - The Best Cameras in 2022
A great Nikon DSLR for beginners
Pros
- Amazing Performance
- Affordable
- Excellent battery life
- In-camera RAW processing
Cons
- Modest video AF performance
- Fixed, non-touch LCD
| Nikon D3500 Specification | |
|---|---|
| Megapixels/Sensor | 24.3/APS-C |
| ISO | ISO 100-25,600 |
| Video (Max Resolution) | 1080p/60 fps |
| Shooting Speed | 5 fps |
| Autofocus | 11 points/Phase, Contrast, Face Detection |
| Connections | USB, mini HDMI | Display: 3-inch LCD 921,000 dots |
| Wi-Fi/Bluetooth/NFC | Yes/Yes/No |
| Battery Life (CIPA) | 1,550 shots |
| Size and Weight | 4.9 x 3.9 x 2.8 inches/12.9 ounces |
Best Camera: If you are just starting out and prefer Nikon DSLRs, one of the best cameras is the Nikon D3500. This entry-level model has a sub-$600 price—which includes a lens—and plenty of in-camera guides to help explain advanced features to beginners.
We also liked the D3500's 24.3MP sensor, long battery life, and the ability to control the camera (to some extent) from your smartphone via Bluetooth. The D3500 has a 3-inch display that doesn't fold outwards and lacks touch capabilities, but Nikons has long maintained a reputation for excellent physical controls. The D3500 is no different.
If you're looking for the ability to shoot a 4K video, we recommend the Canon EOS Rebel SL3, which is a bit more expensive. Still, the Nikon D3500 will shoot great photos in almost any condition. And its price can't be beaten.
6. Sony Alpha a6600 - The Best Cameras in 2022
An excellent mirrorless camera for video
Pros
- Amazing Performance
- High-capacity battery
- Real-time autofocus tracking
- 5-axis image stabilization
- Extended eye autofocus
Cons
- Only one memory card slot
| Sony Alpha a6600 Specification | |
|---|---|
| Megapixels | 24.2 APS-C CMOS |
| Lens Type | Interchangeable |
| ISO Range | 100- 32000 optical (50 – 102400 with boost) |
| Image Stabilization | 5-axis in-body |
| Video (Max Resolution) | 4K/60 fps |
| Shooting Speed | 11 fps |
| Display | Articulating 3-inch touchscreen |
| Wi-Fi | Yes |
| Battery Life | 720 shots |
| Size/Weight | 4.7 x 2.7 x 2.3 inches; 1.1 pounds |
Best Camera: At the top end of Sony's Alpha line of APS-C mirrorless cameras is the Sony a6600, which has everything you could want: an excellent processor that delivers stability in both a wide ISO range (100-32,000), AI-enabled eye autofocusing, and provides videos. , 5-axis in-body image stabilization, 4K/60 fps video, and a speedy 11 fps shooting speed. With a battery on top that can last up to 720 shots, you have one of the best camera options for the price.
In our Sony a6600 review, we were impressed with the image and video quality as well as the handling of the camera. It's made from a solid magnesium-alloy frame and is both dust and moisture-resistant. It has a large, bright electronic viewfinder, as well as a 3-inch touchscreen that flips a full 180 degrees and down 74 degrees. If you don't want to pay full freight for one of Sony's full-frame a7 cameras, the a6600 is the one to check out.
7. Nikon D500 - The Best Cameras in 2022
A great enthusiast DSLR with superb image quality
Pros
- Responsive Performance
- Excellent image quality
- Good low light capabilities
- Dual card slots
- Built-in time-lapse
Cons
- Cropped 4K video
- Limited touchscreen functionality
- Less than stellar video/Live View autofocus
| Nikon D500 Specification | |
|---|---|
| Image Sensor | 20.0MP APS-C CMOS |
| Storage Media | SD/SDHC/SDXC and XQD |
| Image Stabilization | via OIS lenses |
| Display | 3.2-inch touch LCD |
| ISO | 100-51,200 (expandable to 1,640,000) |
| Max video resolution | 4K UHD 3,840 x 2,160/30 and 24 fps |
| Shooting Speed | Up to 10fps |
| Wireless/Bluetooth/NFC | Yes |
| Ports | 10-pin remote terminal, HDMI, USB, Stereo microphone, and headphone jacks |
| Battery life (CIPA) | 1,240 |
| Size (body) | 5.8 x 4.6 x 3.2 inches |
| Weight | 26.9 ounces, body only |
Best Camera: Although it's now five years old, the Nikon D500 is Nikon's flagship DX-series DSLR and puts many new cameras to shame. It's a big, solid, and fairly weighty thing, so if you're something to stick in a bag and take out for a day at the beach, you might be better off with a mirrorless camera. But as semi-pro enthusiast models go, it's hard to beat. Much of it is down to its great image quality: Its 20MP stills are about as good as you can get out of the more expensive full-frame model. It also has excellent autofocus and a fast shooting speed of 10 fps.
The Nikon D500 was one of the first DSLRs that could shoot 4K video, but it maxed out at 30 fps - though you get 60 fps at 1080p. The newer (and cheaper) models will likely outpace it on that front, and you may want to look elsewhere if the video is your primary concern. But for still photographers who shoot a lot of sports or wildlife and prefer a DSLR to a mirrorless camera, this is a great option.
8. Sony ZV-1 - The Best Cameras in 2022
The best camera for vloggers
Pros
- Excellent AF
- Very good quality audio
- Powerful yet easy-to-use features
- Very good quality video and stills
Cons
- Image stabilization could be better
- It May is not versatile enough for advanced vloggers
| Sony ZV-1 Specification | |
|---|---|
| Megapixels | 20.0MP 1-inch-type CMOS |
| Lens Type | Fixed zoom (24–70 mm / approx. 2.9x optical) |
| ISO range | 100-51,200 (expandable to 1,640,000) |
| Image Stabilization | Optical IS |
| Video (Max resolution) | XAVC S 4K (3,840 x 2,160/30p at 100 Mbps) |
| Display | 3.2-inch touch LCD |
| Wi-Fi | Yes |
| Battery life (CIPA) | Approx. 75 mins / 260 shots |
| Size/Weight | 4.3 x 2.4 x 1.8 inches / 9.5 ounces, body only |
Best Camera: The Sony ZV-1 is the only entry on our best cameras list aimed at vloggers—and if filming yourself for YouTube or similar videos is important to you, it's well worth considering.
Although based on Sony's RX series of high-end point-and-shoot cameras, it comes with a slew of features to make vlogging a little easier. For example, it has a swiveling touchscreen LCD screen that opens sideways instead of vertically, so it doesn't get in the way during filming. And it has several expert modes, one that smooths skin and one that rapidly shifts the focus from one person to another. There's also a directional mic and an included wind muff to improve audio performance.
Autofocus is generally good and 4K video and 20MP stills are also high quality, but image stabilization isn't the best - if you're shooting on the go, a DSLR or mirrorless camera over the gimbal will be a better bet. Still, it's well priced and can also act as a webcam for a firmware upgrade.
9. Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W800 - The Best Cameras in 2022
The best camera around $100
Pros
- Amazing Performance
- Inexpensive
- Small and portable
Cons
- No viewfinder
| Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W800 Specification | |
|---|---|
| Resolution | 20.1 MP |
| Optical Zoom | 5x |
| Focal Length | 26 - 130mm (35mm Equiv.) |
| Video (Max) | 720p (1280 x 720) |
| Size | 2.1 x 2 x 0.9 inches |
| Weight | 3.5 ounces |
Best Camera: Looking for a great starter camera for your child? The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W800 is the best camera you can get for around $100. That said, it's getting harder to find now and prices are going up. Still, if you can find it for the target price, it's almost an impulsive buy, and there's no such financial hardship if you lose it or your child drops it. Its sturdy metal chassis packs a great suite of features, including a handy panoramic shooting mode and a 5X zoom lens (26-130mm equivalent). And, measuring just 2.1 x 2 x 0.9 inches, it can slip into your pant pocket with no problem.
The W800's 20.1MP image sensor uses older CCD technology that doesn't perform as well in dark conditions as today's leading CMOS sensors. And while it can record video, its resolution tops out at 720p (1280 x 720), so things won't be as defined as you'll find with a smartphone. But it's fine for a bright afternoon or night shots with the flash on. If you want a longer zoom, the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W830 has an 8X zoom, but it costs a bit more. Be sure to check out all of our picks for the best cheap cameras.
10. Sony A7 II - The Best Cameras in 2022
The best full-frame mirrorless camera
Pros
- Good Performance
- Surprisingly small
- Fast access to settings
- Bright, clear pictures
- Effective 5-axis image stabilization
Cons
- Slow writing to memory card
- Quirky autofocus
| Sony A7 II Specification | |
|---|---|
| Megapixels | 24.7 full-frame CMOS |
| Lens Type | Interchangeable |
| ISO Range | 100-25,600 |
| Image Stabilization | 5-axis in-body |
| Video (Max Resolution) | 1080p/30 fps |
| Shooting Speed | 11 fps |
| Display | Articulating 3-inch LCD |
| Wi-Fi | Yes |
| Battery Life | 350 shots |
| Size/Weight | 5 × 3.87 × 2.37 inches, 1 pound, 3.6 ounces (body only) |
Best Camera: Sony pioneered the full-frame mirrorless camera, and one of its older models, the Sony A7 II, has slashed the price by about $900, making it the best camera for those without Want a paid full-frame mirrorless system. Nose. The A7 II features a 24.7-MP sensor and 5-axis in-body stabilization, which combine to produce some amazing photos even in dark conditions.
We also liked how compact the A7 II is, as well as its sturdy magnesium body. The controls are easy to use, and many of the buttons are customizable, so you can set your favorite settings just a push away. However, this camera shows its age: its 3-inch display lacks a touchscreen, its maximum video resolution is 1080p/30 fps, and its battery life at 350 shots is pretty weak. However, at this price, you'll be able to afford an extra battery or two.
How to choose the best camera for you
Best Camera: There are many factors involved in choosing the best camera for you. The first question you should ask yourself is what are you planning to shoot? If you're doing more portrait photography, and don't plan on moving the camera around a lot, a DSLR may be the best way to go. If you're looking for something more mobile, a mirrorless camera is probably a better bet. Be sure to check out our DSLR vs mirrorless camera guide, which goes into detail about those two camera systems, and scroll down for a little more information about all the options.
It's important to be realistic about your capabilities and your intended use, as you can easily spend thousands of dollars on equipment you don't need, or don't know how to use. Before making a purchase, it's worth your time to visit a camera store to see how a particular model feels in your hands, and how comfortable you are with it.
What different types of cameras are there?
Best Camera: DSLRs
DSLRs – or digital single-lens reflex cameras – use a mirror to reflect light from the lens onto the sensor, and are, as a result, larger and heavier than mirrorless cams. But they're still a great option for beginners and enthusiasts alike, thanks to the ability to swap out lenses, good handling, sturdy build quality, and excellent battery life. Some are even cheaper these days, and they benefit from a bigger lens and accessory lineup, too. Canon and Nikon are the main players, with Pentax another option. Prices can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, but you can get a good one for as little as $450.
Best Camera: Mirrorless
These fade away from the mirror of a DSLR but have the same advantage of being able to replace the lens. As camera manufacturers switch to mirrorless, they get the latest technology, so they're often faster and have better autofocus and video options, as well as features like in-body stabilization. They're also smaller and lighter, but the battery life isn't as good and there aren't as many lenses. Canon and Nikon both now make mirrorless cams, but the biggest player is Sony. Fujifilm, Olympus, and Panasonic are all options. Prices are similar to DSLR.
Best Camera: Point-and-shoot cameras
Also known as compact cameras, they cannot swap lenses but are much smaller and lighter than DSLRs or mirrorless cams. Some are small enough to fit in a pocket and they make great travel cameras. This is a broad category, with many different options; You can pick one for under $100 that you use as an alternative to a smartphone, or spend $1000 and get something with a bigger sensor and one that takes pictures to rival that of a DSLR. Is. Sub-categories include tough cameras that you can use underwater or in extreme conditions and bridge cameras, which have a large body and very long zoom range.
Best Camera: Instant
As the name suggests, instant cameras give you a physical picture as soon as you press the shutter (or a few seconds later). They were basically older Polaroid cameras, but were updated — and in fact, Polaroid still makes some of the best. Many of them use different movie formats that differ in size, so make sure you choose the one that suits your needs. And also look out for additional features like app integration and Flash.
Best Camera: Action cameras
These focus more on video than stills, although they will all do both. GoPro is the main player here (see our guide to the best GoPro cameras for more), but all are designed to capture your daring adventures in (ideally) 4K footage.
Camera vs Smartphone: Do you even need a digital camera?
Best Camera: These days, almost everyone has a very capable camera in their pocket in the form of a smartphone. So is a dedicated camera still needed in 2021? To some extent, it depends on what type of camera you are talking about.
The best camera phones have now reached a level that seemed impossible in a few years, like the iPhone 12 Pro Max and Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra packing multiple lenses, bigger sensors (for a phone), and advanced software tricks. People can and do take incredible pictures with their phones every day, and in some situations, there's no need for a dedicated camera.
But some types of cameras still have significant advantages over phones. For example, DSLR and mirrorless cams are still capable of taking better pictures than smartphones in many situations.
This is partly due to the size of the sensor – even the largest smartphone sensors are several times smaller than those of enthusiast DSLRs. And because sensor size plays an important role in how much light a camera collects, it has a huge impact on the overall quality of an image.
Lenses are another factor: While smartphones may have one or two wide-angle lenses and a telephoto lens, mirrorless cams and DSLRs have a choice of dozens, each optimized for its specific focal length or function.
Instant cameras can also do something that smartphones can't, while rugged cameras also have an advantage in a specific area (i.e. they won't break if they fall down a mountain). With compact cameras, it's a different matter, and unless you're looking for a long zoom range, a smartphone can now be a good option.
Of course, as the saying goes, the best camera is the one you have with you – so either way, make sure you get out there and use it.
How we test the best cameras
Best Camera: Regardless of the type of camera we review, they're all subject to a similar testing regime: We use them in a variety of settings, including low light, outdoors, indoors, and more. We also take pictures of a variety of subjects, such as people and pets, to see how well the camera captures skin tones. If a camera comes with a kit lens, we typically use that lens with the camera, to more closely emulate the similar experience consumers have when they buy the camera.
In addition to stills and video quality, we also rate the camera based on its ease of use: are the physical controls easy to access, and are the menus logically laid out? Lastly, we evaluate the camera's battery life and other features like wireless controls. Once we've done all that, we're in a position to decide whether a model deserves to be on our best camera list.