The 4 Best Mirrorless Camera Under $1000 in 2024

In as much as DSLR cameras have been the go-to for most photographers, their size and weight make them heavy and bulky, and this is not always something that most people want. Manufacturers, therefore, introduced mirrorless cameras which are just as capable as DSLR camera as far as image and video quality go but they are much smaller and easy to use when someone is on the move. However, with the myriad of mirrorless camera models available in the market, choosing a mirrorless camera can be difficult, especially if one is restricted by a budget. To make the decision-making process easier for you, we did all the hard work and curated a list of the best mirrorless cameras you can acquire for under 1000 dollars.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7

Intro

Anyone looking for a DSLM camera that will deliver superb image quality without breaking the bank should consider the Lumix G7 by Panasonic. Even as other DSLM cameras are introduced in the market, the G7 remains a crowd favorite. It brags a 16.84-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor, High-resolution OLED Live View Finder, intelligent-focusing, 4K (UHD) capability, solid image quality amongst other impressive features in a compact highly portable body. Additionally, the camera features integrated Wi-Fi sharing capabilities as well as a pause and export 4K photo mode which makes it possible for users to share their captured imagery effortlessly

Pros

• In comparison to cameras in the GF and GX1 series, the G7’s performance in low light is much improved.
• The camera’s shutter speeds are exceptionally fast, and it shoots rather silently thanks to its electronic shutter.
• Its swivel touchscreen is quite interactive and comes in handy for a lot of users.
• It has a great ergonomic grip

Cons

• The camera’s processing speeds for 4K quality imagery mode is relatively slow.
• Unlike other mirrorless cameras in the same range, the Lumix G7 is not weather sealed.
• The camera’s buttons, dials, and top plate have a tacky plasticky feel.

Sony A7 Mirrorless Digital Camera

Intro

Even though the price of the Sony A7 frequently fluctuates depending on the additional accessories added onto the body, the camera’s body only falls perfectly in our under a 1000 mark which is why we felt it deserved a place in our list that way you can be on the lookout for it. Another reason we included it on the list is that it has the best RAW converter in its range as well as a nifty software for editing photos after taking them. The A7 is a 35mm full-frame camera fitted with a 24.3 MP CMOS sensor, BIONZ X engine, 1/2-inch XGA OLED color EVF and an impressive ISO range of 100-25600. This camera works like a dream, and photographers would be delighted to have it especially given that it can easily upscale the quality of captured images.

Pros

• It captures subject details exceptionally well, thanks to Sony’s E-mount lens capability.
• The camera has an all-weather resistant body which makes it last longer.

Cons

• The package does not include an external battery charger which means that users have to purchase one for themselves, and this only adds to the total cost.
• The camera lacks in-body stabilization capabilities which means users require a lens that is optically stabilized.

Fujifilm X-T20 Mirrorless Digital Camera

Intro

If you are searching for a highly rated camera that embodies style and class, then look no further than the Fujifilm X-T20. Bragging a 24.3-megapixel X-Trans CMOS III APS-C sensor this camera offers unequaled image quality and optimal precision.

Pros

• The camera’s autofocus systems is one of the most responsive AF systems we have come across.
• The electronic viewfinder is overly precise and has a high-ranking resolution.
• It is capable of capturing ultra-high-definition 4K video at 30 frames per second.

Cons

• Its phase detection is rather small in comparison to other mirrorless cameras.
• Continuous autofocusing with the X-T20 can be extremely daunting in low light.
• The memory card is inaccessible if the camera is on its tripod.

Sony Alpha a6000 Mirrorless Digital Camera

Intro

As one of the most liked models in Sony’s product line, the Alpha a6000 is a small highly portable camera that is fitted with a 24 MP APS-C CMOS sensor that gives users 1.6 times the area of micro four-thirds sensors. This sensor works in conjunction with the Sony’s BIONZ X™ processor to ensure that the image quality produced is not only sharp but also outstanding and with shaper details. To top it all up, it has an OLED viewfinder, 11 FPS continuous shooting, 3-inch tilting LCD, AF (Auto Focus) tracking with a 179-point phase-detection. This mirrorless camera is a great alternative to the heavier and bulkier DSLR cameras. Finally, the camera has inbuilt Wi-Fi with NFC connectivity. The performance of the Alpha a6000 was pleasantly surprising.

Pros

• The camera’s ISO range is much greater than it was with its predecessors.
• The Electronic viewfinder is one of the sharpest we have come across for mirrorless cameras in the same range.
• The battery life is not too shabby.

Cons

• The camera starts up in a rather sluggish manner which can be quite frustrating for some users.
• Despite the autofocus tracking is the best when compared to some of its competitors. It still poses a challenge when attempting to capture objects that are moving extremely fast.
• It lacks the standard microphone jack that other cameras are equipped with.
• The camera occasionally experiences thermal overheating, which in turn affects the video recording time, particularly if one is shooting in 60p mode.

The Bottom Line

A good mirrorless camera gives you a great mixture of both high-quality video and photos at a reasonable price. As the popularity of mirrorless cameras increases, investing in a solid mirrorless camera would be a wise decision, especially if you are just getting started out in your videography and photography journey. All the mirrorless cameras we have discussed above meet the bare minimum needs of both skilled and unskilled photographers without necessarily breaking the bank. We hope that you have found one that is within your budget and meets your needs or if you haven’t you at least have an idea of where to begin searching.