Selecting the right DSLR camera can greatly influence your photography journey. Each camera offers unique features suited to different needs and preferences. Understanding these options can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your goals.
1. Best Overall DSLR
Nikon D850
The Nikon D850 stands out with its 45.7 MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor. It excels in capturing detailed images, making it ideal for varied photography scenarios. The D850's autofocus system works well in low-light conditions, and its continuous shooting speed of 7 FPS supports action photography.
Key features include:
- 4K full-frame video recording
- Focus stacking
- Tilting touchscreen
- Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth
- Weather-resistant build
- Dual card slots
Despite its 2017 release, the D850 remains competitive. The price for a new unit is around $2500, while used ones go for about $2000, presenting a high-value option for professionals seeking reliability and versatility.
2. Best for Beginners
Canon Rebel SL3
The Canon Rebel SL3 is a strong contender for beginners, thanks to its user-friendly interface and solid performance. It features a 24.1 MP APS-C sensor and Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology for smooth autofocus in both stills and video modes.
Notable features:
- 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen
- 4K video capability
- Around 1,070 shots per charge
- Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth
- Guided user interface
At a price point usually below $600 with a kit lens, the Canon Rebel SL3 presents good value for aspiring photographers looking to enter the DSLR world.
Best for Enthusiasts: Pentax KP
The Pentax KP offers a balance between advanced features and manageable complexity. It features a 24.3 MP APS-C sensor with an ISO range up to 819200, making it strong in low-light environments.
"The Pentax KP's ergonomics are designed for comfort, featuring a deep grip and an intuitive control layout."
Priced around $900, the Pentax KP is a worthy investment for those looking to step up from entry-level models to a more advanced DSLR that can handle various photographic demands.
3. Best Crop-Sensor DSLR
Canon EOS 90D
The Canon EOS 90D features a 32.5 MP APS-C sensor, providing high image resolution. Its Dual Pixel CMOS AF system offers fast and accurate autofocus, complemented by 45-point all cross-type autofocus and 10 frames per second continuous shooting.
Key specifications:
- Uncropped 4K video recording
- 1080p video at up to 120 fps
- Vari-angle touchscreen LCD
- Up to 1,300 shots on a single charge
Priced around $1,200 for the body alone, the Canon EOS 90D provides a good balance of advanced features and user-friendly design, suitable for both upgrading photographers and those seeking a secondary camera.
4. Best Full-Frame Hybrid
Nikon D780
The Nikon D780 combines DSLR and mirrorless technologies, featuring a 24.5 MP full-frame sensor. It offers 4K UHD video recording without crop and a 273-point on-sensor phase-detection AF system in live view and video modes, plus a 51-point phase-detection AF for viewfinder photography.
Impressive features include:
- Durable, weather-sealed build
- Tilting 3.2-inch touchscreen
- Slow-motion at up to 120 fps
- 10-bit output with N-Log or HDR
- Up to 2,260 shots per charge
Priced around $2,300, the Nikon D780 is a versatile option for photographers and videographers who want DSLR durability with some mirrorless features.
5. Best Value for Enthusiasts
Nikon D7500
The Nikon D7500 features a 20.9 MP APS-C sensor known for good image quality and low-light performance. It has a 51-point autofocus system with 15 cross-type sensors and can shoot at 8 frames per second continuously.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| ISO Range | Up to 51,200 (expandable to 1,640,000) |
| Video | 4K UHD at 30 fps |
| Display | Tilting touchscreen |
| Connectivity | Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth |
Priced around $1,100 for the body, the Nikon D7500 offers a good balance of features and affordability for enthusiast photographers.
6. Best Entry-Level Full-Frame
Canon EOS 6D Mark II
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II features a 26.2 MP full-frame CMOS sensor and Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology. It can record Full HD 1080p video at up to 60 frames per second and includes a vari-angle touchscreen for easy menu navigation and composition.
Notable features:
- 45-point all cross-type AF system
- Weather-sealed body
- Built-in WiFi, NFC, and GPS
- Up to 1,200 shots per charge
Priced around $1,200, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II provides a good entry point to full-frame photography, balancing advanced features with approachable design.
7. Best Flagship DSLR
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a premium flagship DSLR camera. Its 30.4 MP full-frame CMOS sensor delivers high-quality images with excellent detail and low-light performance. This camera meets the needs of professional photographers across various subjects and conditions.
Key features include:
- Advanced 61-point autofocus system with 41 cross-type points
- 4K DCI video recording at 30 fps
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF for smooth video tracking
- 3.2-inch touchscreen LCD with 1.62 million dots
- Weather-sealed construction
- Built-in WiFi, GPS, and NFC connectivity
The EOS 5D Mark IV offers approximately 900 shots per battery charge. Priced around $3,000 for the body, it represents a significant investment for professionals seeking a reliable, high-performing DSLR for both stills and video work.
8. Best DSLR for Image Quality
Nikon D850
The Nikon D850 excels in image quality with its 45.4 MP full-frame CMOS sensor. It's ideal for photographers in fields like landscapes, studio work, and commercial assignments.
Key features include:
- High resolution with excellent dynamic range
- 153-point autofocus system with 99 cross-type points
- 4K UHD video recording at 30 fps
- Tilting 3.2-inch touchscreen LCD with 2.36 million dots
- Weather-sealed build
- WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity
The D850 offers up to 1,840 shots per battery charge and includes dual card slots. Priced around $3,000 for the body, it's a premium choice for photographers prioritizing image quality in their work.
9. Best Sports and Wildlife DSLR
Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
The Canon EOS 1D X Mark III is designed for sports and wildlife photography. Its 20.1 MP full-frame CMOS sensor balances resolution with speed.
Key features include:
- Up to 20 fps burst shooting in live view mode
- 191-point AF system with 155 cross-type points
- 4K video at 60fps and 5.5K RAW video capability
- Weather-sealed magnesium alloy body
- Over 2,800 shots per battery charge
- Dual CFexpress card slots
- Built-in WiFi, GPS, and Bluetooth
Priced around $6,500 for the body, the 1D X Mark III is a professional-grade tool for capturing fast-paced action in challenging conditions.
10. Best Black and White DSLR
Pentax K-3 Mark III Monochrome
The Pentax K-3 Mark III Monochrome is designed specifically for black and white photography. Its 25.7 MP APS-C sensor captures detailed grayscale images without a color filter array.
Key features include:
- Enhanced light sensitivity and dynamic range for monochrome images
- Weather-sealed construction
- In-body image stabilization
- 101-point AF system with 25 cross-type points
- 3.2-inch LCD screen
- Built-in WiFi for image transfer and remote shooting
Priced around $2,200, this camera offers a specialized tool for photographers focusing on black and white imagery.
11. Best Compact DSLR
Canon EOS Rebel SL3
The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 is a lightweight, compact DSLR suitable for travel and everyday photography.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Sensor | 24.1 MP APS-C |
| Autofocus | Dual Pixel CMOS AF |
| Screen | Vari-angle 3.0-inch touchscreen |
| Video | 4K at 24 fps |
| Battery Life | Up to 1,070 shots |
| Connectivity | Built-in WiFi and Bluetooth |
Priced around $600 with a kit lens, the Rebel SL3 offers a good balance of portability and performance for entry-level photographers and travelers.
The Nikon D850 stands out for image quality, with its high resolution and dynamic range making it an excellent choice for photographers prioritizing detail and precision. Its 45.4 MP sensor captures stunning images with exceptional clarity, making it ideal for landscape and studio photographers who demand the utmost in image quality.1
