TOP 20 best SLR cameras: 2021 rating and which one to choose for a novice photographer

Digital SLR cameras are used by both professionals and beginners.
This is the most popular and popular section of photographic equipment in 2021. What to consider when choosing such a device and which models have won the trust of experts and buyers - we will tell you in the article below.

The presented rating in terms of price/quality ratio will help when purchasing and will indicate the advantages and disadvantages of each participant.

Rating of the TOP 20 best SLR cameras of 2021

Top 10 DSLR Cameras

Canon EOS 1300D Kit

This model looks quite strict and does not contain anything superfluous, it is compact in size and light in weight. Ideal for travel. Weight is only 550 grams including lens and battery. The body has a traditional and fairly ergonomic shape. There are anti-slip rubber inserts on the back of the panel and on the handle.

The display is non-rotating, its resolution is 920 thousand dots with a 3-inch diagonal. The menu is convenient, all the main functions are always at hand. The buttons are large and convenient. The device has excellent sensitivity and shooting quality is 18 megapixels. It is possible to record video at a frame rate of 25-30 per second and automatically focuses using a 9-point system. The camera has a Wi-Fi module that allows you to establish direct communication with various devices and transfer files.

Advantages:

• Very comfortable shape;
• Equipped with anti-slip inserts;
• Acceptable price;
• High-quality focusing when shooting;
• Availability of Wi-Fi module.

Flaws:

• Not suitable for professional photographers;
• Using panorama mode allows you to take only three frames;
• Low performance.

Canon 1300D. Video review

Canon EOS 1300D Kit

Nikon D3300 Kit

This is one of the best cameras for beginners who plan to pursue professional photography in the future. The case is made of high-quality plastic, is well assembled, and parts do not become loose over time. The dimensions are small and very comfortable to hold in your hands. At the front there is a slightly protruding handle and several buttons with which you can remove the lens or flash. On the left side of the case there is a cover under which you can find ports for HDMI, AV/TV outputs, and there is a connector for connecting an external microphone.

There is a slot for a memory card – SD format is supported, the maximum capacity is 64 GB. At the back there is a liquid crystal display with a resolution of 640*480. It's not very convenient to view photos on it. Above it there is a viewfinder equipped with a diopter adjustment wheel. The matrix is ​​standard for cameras in the low price category - 24 megapixels. The detail of your pictures can be increased by installing an additional lens. The device works very quickly thanks to the installed Expeed 4 processor. It is capable of taking up to 5 pictures per second, and has a noise reduction system. Automatic focus at 11 points, captures details well. Video shooting is done in Full HD format at a frequency of 60 frames per second.

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Advantages:

• High matrix resolution;
• Autofocus is equipped with a backlight;
• Color solutions can be customized almost instantly;
• Continuous shooting 5 frames per second;
• Automatic noise suppression system;
• There is a video editor;
• A very convenient lens.

Flaws:

• Not compatible with all lenses;
• Fixed display;
• There is no electronic level;
• Wi-Fi and GPS modules are not provided;
• There is no image stabilization system.

Nikon D3300 DSLR test

Nikon D3300 Kit

Canon EOS 100D Kit

It is a budget model. According to user reviews, this is a pretty good inexpensive camera. The number of buttons here is smaller, largely due to the presence of a touch display in the design. The power lever is three-position - off position, photo mode and video mode. The memory card slot is located under the battery cover. The body is made of rough material and has a rubberized insert on the handle. On the front of the panel there is a signal receiver from the remote control and a red-eye reduction device.

The large touch display is easy to use and has all the necessary settings for taking high-quality photos. On the left panel there is a rubber plug, behind which are hidden connectors for installing a microphone, a multifunctional miniUSB connector and a miniHDMI output. The matrix has 18 megapixels, the camera is equipped with a second-generation hybrid autofocus. DIGIC 5 processor, which ensures good camera performance in all operating modes. Continuous shooting mode provides up to 4 frames per second.

Advantages:

• Small dimensions, fits comfortably in the hand;
• You can take both photos and videos;
• Compatible with most lenses not only from Canon, but also with many others;
• Touch screen;
• Acceptable price.

Flaws:

• Makes a lot of noise during operation, regardless of the type of lens used;
• Auto focus isn't good enough;
• The focus point illumination in the viewfinder sometimes shifts.

Review of the Canon EOS 100D camera

Canon EOS 100D Kit

Nikon D5300 Kit

It is small in size, making the device convenient to take with you on trips and carry with you. The camera is distinguished by high-quality assembly - there are no backlashes between the body parts, they do not become loose over time. There is a video recording function, and the picture is of high quality. The device supports SDCH memory cards up to 128 GB.

The lens is equipped with a folding mechanism; focus and zoom are adjusted using special wheels. Automatic focus works very reliably, focusing on 39 points. The lens also has optical image stabilization. If necessary, it can be disabled. The display panel is large, the display itself is rotatable, it can be folded with the screen inward, which reduces the risk of scratches or abrasions. Next to it there are several buttons, the main function of which is to view and delete pictures. On the left panel you can find a rubber plug, where there are several outputs - for a microphone, connecting an HDMI cable, miniUSB. The memory card slot is located on the right. Continuous shooting allows you to take up to 5 frames per second, and this parameter is adjustable.

Advantages:

• Good color rendering;
• Video recording in high resolution 1920*1080;
• There is a GPS module;
• Wi-Fi is provided, and you can use a mobile phone as a remote control;
• A large number of automatic and manual settings;
• Small mass.

Flaws:

• Built-in microphone records auto focus noise;
• Low battery capacity;
• Sometimes the auto focus gets stuck.

Nikon D5300. Video test

Nikon D5300 Kit

6. Sony Alpha ILCA-77M2 Body

This is the first semi-professional model presented in our review. This mirror device is suitable not only for beginners, but also for advanced users. The device is equipped with a high-performance Bionz X processor, the display resolution is 1229 thousand dots. The number of focusing points is significantly higher compared to amateur SLR cameras - 79. The battery life is about 6 hours in photo shooting mode and about an hour and a half when recording video.

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The assembly is reliable, there are no gaps, and the camera is comfortable to hold even with one hand. The button for switching between the display and the viewfinder is located so that it can be reached in any position. The camera has a remote control. The display is rotating, touch type. There are a lot of settings, the main ones are automatic, additional and subtle ones are manual. On the left side there are four plugs, under them there are connectors for microUSB, HDMI, and a jack for connecting an additional microphone. On the right side there is only a slot for installing a memory card - the device supports cards up to 256 GB.

Advantages:

• Very user-friendly interface;
• The screen is rotating;
• Even when shooting video, there is autofocus.

Flaws:

• The matrix makes a lot of noise during operation;
• Often the picture turns out blurry;
• Autofocus is fast, but sometimes makes mistakes.

DRTV in Russian: Review of Sony Alpha A77 II

Sony Alpha ILCA-77M2 Body

Nikon D610 Body

The device is equipped with a fast shutter that allows you to shoot up to 6 frames per second in burst shooting, and this parameter can be adjusted. The overall dimensions are small, the camera is comfortable to hold with one hand. Automatic focusing is based on 60 points, which are evenly distributed throughout the frame, and it works well even in low light.

This is one of the best cameras of 2021 that comes with a built-in automatic flash. It is unlikely to be suitable for professional sessions, but when traveling it will be simply irreplaceable. The device has a large number of user settings. One of the main distinguishing features is the HDR mode - when using it, the device will take two frames and merge them into one, preserving very bright and very dark areas. The downside is that photos in this mode will only be in .jpeg format. To get a similar effect in .raw, you will have to perform all operations manually, which takes a lot of time.

Advantages:

• High quality images;
• There is a built-in flash;
• Performance;
• Battery reliability;
• High build quality.

Flaws:

• The shutter is weak;
• High price.

Nikon D610: full-frame DSLR review

Nikon D610 Body

Canon EOS 6D Body

This is a very compact device, ergonomic appearance, carefully designed camera design. The weight is practically no different from amateur models, so the device is very comfortable to hold even in one hand. There are significantly fewer buttons than other semi-professional devices. On the top there is an additional liquid crystal screen. The device supports SDHC and SDXC memory cards, providing high speed recording and reading of photos and videos.

The interface is quite convenient; you can scroll through the settings using two dials - there are a large number of quick parameters that can be adjusted directly during the shooting process. The camera has GPS and Wi-Fi modules. The camera response is average - in burst mode it is capable of delivering up to 4.5 frames per second: this depends on the selected file format. If necessary, you can use silent mode.

Advantages:

• Convenient white balance;
• Several built-in modules - GPS and Wi-Fi;
• High quality video;
• Color rendition is quite natural;
• The stabilizer is high quality.

Flaws:

• There is no built-in flash;
• There is no rotating screen for macro photography;
• The lens motor makes a whirring noise when operating;
• Portrait photography turns out blurry, photographs need additional processing;
• It is better to set the white balance manually.

Canon EOS 6D video review

Canon EOS 6D Body

Pentax K-1 Body

In the ranking of SLR cameras, this professional camera took an honorable third place. This is the first full-frame device released by this company. It contains a very large number of different functions and a 36-megapixel sensor. The stabilizer has five axes - no other professional or amateur device has this. The frame can be composed by shifting or slightly tilting the matrix.

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The camera has the original Pixel Shift Resolution sharpening function, GPS and Wi-Fi modules are provided. One of the heaviest designs presented in this review – it weighs more than a kilogram. The case has a significant number of rubber gaskets and plugs, which allows the device not to react to water splashes and even rain. The display is touch-sensitive, rotating, at the bottom of the structure there is a battery compartment, and there is a socket for mounting on a tripod.

Advantages:

• The stabilizer is located directly in the body;
• Metal case equipped with rubber inserts;
• Long battery life;
• Availability of backlight.

Flaws:

• Focusing is slow;
• You won't be able to quickly switch between photo and video modes.

DRTV in Russian: Review of Pentax K-1

Pentax K-1 Body

Canon EOS 5DSR Body

This is the only model of its kind equipped with a low-frequency suppression system. Due to this function, high-resolution images become clearer and sharper, and image distortion practically does not occur. It has another advantage - it reduces mirror vibration, which allows for quiet shutter operation. The device has a 50.6 MP full-frame image sensor.

The camera has an ergonomic shape and fits comfortably in your hand. The display is non-rotating, the device's light sensitivity ranges from 100 to 6400, due to which you can fully use the camera for studio, landscape and other types of shooting. The menu has a new feature that allows you to set the most suitable aspect ratio.

Advantages:

• Very high resolution of both photos and videos;
• There is no noise in the shadows in the pictures;
• A large number of fine settings that are perfect for professionals;
• Excellent color rendition.

Flaws:

• It doesn't have enough time to work offline - you have to buy another battery.

DRTV in Russian: Canon 5Ds and Canon 5Ds R

Canon EOS 5DSR Body

1. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Body

A recognized leader among professional cameras. This camera has a number of unique features. In particular, it is equipped with a Dual Pixel CMOS system, which allows you to open up a number of possibilities when processing photos. The sensor has a resolution of 30 megapixels, which made it possible to increase the burst shooting speed to 7 frames per second. The video quality is also high, the maximum number of frames is 60.

The case is metal, has excellent assembly, covered with plastic and moisture- and dust-proof materials. The device feels great indoors, outdoors, and in bad weather. It does not weigh too much - only about 900 grams, but due to its large dimensions it is very inconvenient to hold it in one hand. The display is liquid crystal, non-rotating, it is convenient to switch between it and the lens. On the left side there is a plug with a large number of connectors.

Advantages:

• Automatic focus is activated instantly;
• Availability of moisture-proof coating;
• Continuous shooting is fast;
• Quiet shutter sound;
• Availability of Wi-Fi module;
• Autofocus is used even when shooting video.

Flaws:

• Not found except for the high price.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV. New king?

Canon vs Nikon | Canon or Nikon, which is better?

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Body

How to choose a DSLR camera?

When purchasing a DSLR camera, consider the following points::

1. Frame . It should be durable and tactilely pleasant, preferably protected from dust and moisture. Pay attention to the weight and how comfortable it is to hold the device with one hand.
2. Battery capacity . Reflected in the number of pictures you can take per charge.
3. Connections . Modern models are increasingly equipped with wireless communication modules, which speeds up and simplifies the process of data exchange.
4. Screen . The size, brightness and its position should ensure comfort of use. The image needs to be clear, the brightness should be enough to use the device outdoors, and the rotating mechanism will allow you to set the desired angle.
5. Permission . Reflected in the number of points. The more there are, the higher the quality of the images, the better the details are reflected.
6. Focus . Helps to achieve image clarity, can be either manual or automatic with the ability to manually adjust.
7. Stabilization . If you often shoot objects in motion, this is a must-have option for your camera. It will not allow the frame to blur, including due to hand shaking.

Best DSLR for Beginners: Canon EOS Rebel SL3

For beginners, this camera is a good leap from smartphone cameras.

The ultra-compact DSLR camera is equipped with all the features you need to master your skills: - 24-megapixel APS-C sensor (the more pixels the better); — fast dual-pixel autofocus on the sensor; — optical viewfinder with an additional 9-point autofocus system; — fully movable touch screen; - Battery life up to 1070 shots when using the optical viewfinder (320 shots when using Live View with Dual Pixel AF).

Record video in 4K (albeit at 1.7x the size).

And also Wi-Fi with Bluetooth connectivity for transferring photos.

What makes the Rebel SL3 a better choice over more popular mirrorless models that offer the same image quality? In particular, it is a beginner-friendly “Guide” mode along with an optical viewfinder.

With the help mode, it is more convenient for a beginner to understand how to adjust the exposure correctly. You can turn on on-screen guidance mode and then compose and take a photo through the viewfinder. This will not be possible with mirrorless cameras with electronic viewfinders, since the image will only be displayed in real time on both the screen and the viewfinder.

What are the differences between a DSLR and a mirrorless camera?

DSLR cameras have more mechanical parts and are susceptible to even minor shocks . Such a device consists of two parts - the main body and the lens.

After the light passes through the lens and diaphragm, it hits a translucent mirror. The image is divided into two parts. The first is displayed on the viewfinder, and the second goes to the focusing system, after which it is reflected on the matrix. This is the photograph.

A mirrorless camera is a symbiosis of a DSLR and compact devices . Light is also output to the matrix, but the image is reflected on the screen after processing by the processor.

Best DSLR for Pros: Nikon D850

Although the Nikon D850 has been out for almost four years, this full-frame DSLR remains a great tool for professional photographers.

What does it have: - 46-megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor; — continuous shooting mode 7 frames per second with AE/AF; — autofocus system with 153 points; — touch screen with a diagonal of 3.2 inches; — backlit controls with advanced time-lapse functions.

For video, it has UHD 4K full-screen capture at up to 30p, 1080 video at up to 120p, and 4K time-lapse video creation in-camera.

Professional photographers also need to be able to cope with different lighting conditions, and this model is ready for that. The back-illuminated sensor improves low-light performance and edge-to-edge image quality. Like the D810, the D850 also has an ISO 64 mode for taking cool photos in bright light.

Additionally, the price of the camera has dropped by about $500 as of October 2021, making the D850 an even more affordable option for those looking to get a full-frame professional DSLR.

Some might say that the Canon 5D Mark IV fits the bill to a greater extent. However, the latest 5 Series DSLR was actually a disappointment due to its poor video performance and low dynamic range.

Best compact DSLR: Pentax K-3 Mark III

DSLR cameras are comparatively larger in size than mirrorless cameras. The recently announced Pentax K-3 Mark III has been on the radar of compact DSLR fans due to significant upgrades over the previous version.

Most of its core components have been completely upgraded or replaced, such as: - stabilized 25.7-megapixel back-illuminated CMOS sensor; - new optical viewfinder with 1.05x magnification and eye detection autofocus; — as well as a new shutter mechanism that provides speeds of up to 12 frames per second.

Its internal stabilization system now has 5.5 EV correction, the highest for a K-mount camera. The all-new SAFOX 13 AF module also has wider frame coverage than the previous version, with 101 AF points, including 25 cross-type types. According to Ricoh, the K-3 Mark III now has better autofocus tracking performance thanks to machine learning.

So what makes Ricoh's new flagship APS-C DSLR camera worth checking out? Convenient, compact and fast in operation, the camera can compete with cameras with a full-frame sensor in shooting at high ISO.

Amateur cameras

Canon EOS 100D

The TOP 10 opens with a SLR camera, which has not left the world rankings of cameras for beginners for four years now.
This device is suitable for travel enthusiasts: its weight including the battery is 407 g. There are no complaints about the build quality - the model is made of durable, smooth plastic, the parts fit perfectly. The EOS 100D has an 18-megapixel sensor. The ISO range is from 100 to 25,600, and even at high settings the camera provides decent image quality. The data is processed by the already proven DIGIC 5 processor, which provides continuous shooting at a speed of 4 frames per second.

The average price (with a kit lens) is 29,000 rubles.

Advantages:

• price;
• touchscreen;
• speed of work;
• photo quality;
• compactness.

Flaws:

• weak battery.

Nikon D5600

Image quality, fast operation and accurate autofocus - these are the characteristics of a good SLR camera from the Japanese company Nikon, equipped with a matrix with a resolution of 24.2 megapixels. The manufacturer deliberately refused to use a low-pass filter - this allows you to take clear photographs even in auto mode. The ISO range is from 100 to 25,600. The camera also has something to offer to lovers of night photography. Images provide excellent detail even at ISO 6,400 in difficult lighting conditions.

As for other functions of the camera, it is worth noting the flash range (up to 7 m), Full HD video and high-quality sound recording without connecting an external microphone. An excellent addition was Bluetooth® low energy technology, thanks to which the user was able to support communication between the camera and smartphone.

The average price (without lens) is 38,900 rubles.

Advantages:

• rotating screen;
• built-in reference guide for beginners;
• accurate autofocus.

Flaws:

• exposure metering errors;
• battery autonomy.

Sony Alpha 68

If the main criterion for your choice is ease of use of the device, then we recommend paying attention to the Sony Alfa 68. This is an inexpensive but good camera, part of the Sony family of digital amateur cameras. Like the previous A58 model, the new product uses translucent glass technology. It reduces camera vibration and increases shooting speed.

By purchasing the Sony A68, you will receive highly detailed images and a wide range of colors. A 24.2 megapixel sensor and ISO 100-25,600 units are responsible for these parameters. The speed of the device is guaranteed by the BIONZ X processor.

An interesting discovery was 4D FOCUS, designed to provide fast and accurate tracking autofocus. It consists of 79 points. Only professional models have a larger number.

The average price (with a kit lens) is 45,400 rubles.

Advantages:

• photo quality;
• fast autofocus;
• two displays;
• price.

Flaws:

• plastic mount;
• case quality;
• stabilizer operation.

Canon EOS 700D

The EOS 700D DSLR is the evolution of the Rebel line and is a great choice for a beginner. Under a stainless steel body covered with plastic, there is an 18-megapixel sensor and a DIGIC V processor, which develops shooting speeds of up to 5 fps. The camera sensitivity ranges from 100 to 12,800 units (with expansion up to 25,600), which helps you shoot in the twilight and not be afraid of noise.

For those who are just learning the skill of a photographer, the manufacturer has added 12 intuitive automatic modes that make working with the device easier. Use creative filters to experiment with your images: fisheye, miniature, toy camera, and grainy black and white.

The average price (without lens) is 30,900 rubles.

Advantages:

• touch screen;
• weight (580 g);
• user-friendly interface;
• picture quality;
• fast autofocus.

Flaws:

• small buffer;
• weak battery.

Sony Alpha A77 II

In sixth place in the ranking is a well-proven SLR camera from Sony. What does one of the leading sellers in the photographic equipment market offer? The main characteristics of the camera are:

1. Metal housing, protected from shock, water and dust.
2. Sensor 24.3 MHz, ISO - from 100 to 25,600.
3. Electronic viewfinder guarantees full frame coverage.
4. NFC technology, which makes it possible to connect the camera with other devices via Wi-Fi.
5. New AF system with 79 points covering more than 70% of the frame.
6. Continuous shooting - 12 fps.

The average price (with a kit lens) is 90,500 rubles.

Advantages:

• fast processor;
• precise autofocus;
• rotating LCD display;
• build quality;
• image stabilizer.

Flaws:

• battery autonomy;
• plastic mount;
• noise suppression.

Nikon D7200

This device is an excellent choice for those looking for professional quality at an affordable price. Numerous positive reviews online confirm that the D7200 is the best cropped camera from Nikon.

The case, made of magnesium, perfectly protects the filling of the device. The LCD display, consisting of 1.23 million pixels, will allow you to enjoy the shots you take. The 24.2-megapixel matrix does not have a low-pass AA filter. Thanks to this, the detail of photos taken at high ISOs has increased. The sensitivity range is from 100 to 25,600 units, expandable to 102,400. Fans of creative photography will appreciate the built-in special effects: color sketch, miniature, silhouette, night vision, high and low key.

The average price (without lens) is 63,200 rubles.

Advantages:

• battery autonomy;
• fast autofocus;
• picture quality even in “Auto” mode;
• dynamic range;
• Wi-Fi.

Flaws:

• complex controls.

Best DSLR for Sports Events: Nikon D500

The other professional DSLR models mentioned earlier are sure to suit the sports photographer. But if you want another option at a more affordable price, the five-year-old Nikon D500 is also good for shooting action shots.

This high-quality DSLR with a semi-professional crop sensor boasts:

— new 20.9 megapixel CMOS sensor; - Nikon professional autofocus system with a new AF point selector; — continuous shooting at a speed of 10 frames per second; - large optical viewfinder and tiltable touch screen.

It also inherits Nikon D5's professional-grade 153-point phase detection autofocus sensor and EXPEED 5 processor, delivering the best balance of performance, accuracy and low-light capabilities.

Plus built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, a tilting screen for more flexible shooting, wider dynamic range and, of course, a more affordable price.

Like the D5, the D500 can also shoot 4K UHD video, albeit with a 2.25x crop.

This mid-sized camera will feel right at home in your hands. If the D5 is too bulky for you, the smaller D500 is a great alternative. With a lightweight, weather-sealed body, well-positioned controls and ergonomics, you'll have a great camera ready to follow the action with you.

Top 3 DSLR Cameras

Canon EOS 90D

A year and a half after its release, this mid-range camera is still a good and affordable DSLR for professional photographers.

It features: - a 32.5 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor with 1.6x crop, - a DIGIC 8 image processor, a 3-inch vari-angle LCD touchscreen display, - an optical viewfinder with 100% coverage and an AF joystick.

Key features include a Dual Pixel CMOS AF system with 45 cross-type AF points, continuous shooting at up to 11 fps, and Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity.

When it comes to video shooting, the EOS 90D can shoot UHD 4K 30p and Full HD 120p frameless.

These are just a few of the features that should be enough for most professionals involved in various types of photography.

The EOS 90D is a particularly good choice for those who want to get into portrait photography, especially since Canon has a large selection of portrait lenses. Face and eye detection autofocus will also help with portraits for sharper focus.

Because the EOS 90D is also weather-sealed, it's also great for travel and landscape photography. Additionally, its ISO range of 100 to 25,600 and EV range of -3 ensure accurate autofocusing in low light. Although the included lens is mediocre, you can pair it with a better one and get excellent results.