15 best SLR cameras

Like many other ingenious inventions, cameras gradually go to the masses. More recently, people used them only to somehow capture the main events in life. Now the art of photography has risen to a new level. Demands for devices have also grown, not only among professional photographers, but also among beginners. This is facilitated not only by the desire of people for beauty, but also by a wide selection of high-end cameras for every taste and budget.

It is best to create high-quality images suitable for SLR cameras. They tend to much higher resolution and photo quality than the more compact mirrorless models. In addition, they offer many opportunities for creativity. The possibility of alternating interchangeable lenses and a variety of multi-level settings are suitable for the most daring experiments. High accuracy of the DSLRs is achieved due to the complete coincidence of the image in the viewfinder window and with the picture falling on the matrix through the lens. For professional photographers, such properties are a real necessity, while for beginners it is a wonderful chance to prove themselves and to please their loved ones with bright pictures.

SLR cameras, like devices of any other category, are not the same. Of course, first of all, they differ in the quality of photos, which are responsible for the quality of the matrix, ISO sensitivity and other features. However, it is important to remember about some other parameters that are worth paying attention to:

1. Reliability.
2. Opening hours without recharging.
3. Functional.
4. Ease of use.
5. The variety of modes and settings.
6. Accurate frame transfer to viewfinder and screen.
7. Additional features.
8. Durable case.
9. Weight.

It is also recommended to pay attention to the purpose of the camera. After all, an amateur camera can hardly meet all the requirements of a sophisticated specialist. And vice versa, a professional DSLR is not suitable for a beginner due to the abundance of complex settings and options, which will require special knowledge and experience to use correctly.

The distribution of places in categories took into account such important criteria as:

• specifications;
• expert reviews;
• manufacturers recommendations;
• test results;
• customer reviews.

Best Amateur SLR Cameras

Amateur SLR camera - the first step on the way to professional photography. But despite the intentions, the newbies continue to shoot for a long time “on the green button”. To immerse yourself in the world of creative photography comfortably, evaluate the ergonomics, the presence of automatic modes and the clarity of the interface. The number of megapixels, the size of the matrix, the maximum ISO sensitivity at the initial level is not critical. You will appreciate and feel numerous technical subtleties only when you start to freely navigate in the manual settings.

3 Canon EOS 100D Kit

Lightweight and compact SLR camera - a godsend for lovers of travel. Included with a compact fixed-lens will occupy a minimum of space and will not attract too much attention. Perhaps for male photographers, the grip will seem inconvenient, but for a fragile girl, the design is perfect.

Ergonomics almost did not suffer from a miniature size. The lack of some buttons compensates for a responsive touchscreen display and a thoughtful menu. Because of the size, the capacity of the battery is trimmed (a full charge is enough for 380 frames), but the problem is solved by purchasing a spare unit. Build quality raises no objections. According to reviews, ISO up to 800 remains working.

Of the benefits, consumers note the presence in the kit Kit-lens with a STM motor, adapted to the video. Recording movies makes it easy to focus by touching the screen in Liveview mode. Only frustrating the lack of an optical zoom when recording video and a rotating screen.
If you are looking for a model that has the advantages of a SLR camera and a compact size, it is better not to find an option.

2 Canon EOS 2000D Kit

The newest camera of the famous brand has confidently entered the list of the best DSLR for novice photographers at the very start of sales. With a weight of only 475 grams and the most affordable price, the model received intuitive settings and an excellent set of properties. Unlike many competitors, the Canon 2000D is an ideal choice for those who appreciate innovation and the ability to instantly share invaluable footage with friends on social networks.

Thanks to the support of Wi-Fi and NFC images in seconds are transferred to the smartphone without loss of quality. Also, these technologies allow you to control the camera remotely, which is very convenient for group shots. The manufacturer also took care of another popular feature - high-quality shooting of stories with a neat blurring of the background. Intelligent scenario mode, automatic creative mode and useful tips will help amateur photographers just starting to master the SLR.

1 Nikon D5300 Kit

The price of an entry-level SLR camera is approaching semi-professional models, but the equipment costs its money and gives excellent potential for professional growth. Nikon has a lot of automatic modes and artistic effects, but at the same time, the technical characteristics of the camera are high.

Noise is not particularly noticeable up to 1000 ISO. The SLR camera has an excellent dynamic range, fast autofocus, copes with object tracking during continuous shooting. But the series will not be fully enjoyed due to the small clipboard. When choosing the RAW format, the camera takes a long time to think over the processing of information. The same contradiction concerns video recording. The quality of the picture full HD is beyond praise, but focusing fails. In LiveView mode, it is slow and noisy, which affects the overall impression.
Despite the shortcomings, the Nikon D5300 Kit is an excellent multi-point reflex camera. Paired with a fixed-lens camera will produce a result close to professional shooting. A nice bonus will be the built-in Wi-Fi and GPS modules that allow you to control the camera from the phone and determine where the picture was taken.

Video Review

Top Advanced SLR Cameras

Photographers who closely got acquainted with the possibilities of amateur DSLRs and dream of more functionality are eyeing the semi-professional SLR cameras. Manufacturers rely on different characteristics - the reliability of the case, the speed of autofocus, video. The choice depends on the purpose of operation. Semi-professional models have improved ergonomics, however, additional hot buttons can confuse the novice photographer.

4 Nikon D7200 Body

A powerful device for advanced photographers has become famous as the best studio SLR of the middle segment due to a number of important characteristics. In addition to the tripod mount and voice comment recording, especially convenient for working with clients, the SLR camera is also equipped with a sync contact. This connector for connecting an external flash allows you to connect a non-standard flash, which can be useful when shooting in studio conditions.

However, Nikon is good not only for the studio. The case with magnesium alloy covers, protected from dust and insignificant amounts of moisture, ensures reliable operation of the DSLR on field shots. Also, the AF camera takes great photos in low light conditions. Hybrid autofocus, combining the best features of contrast and phase autofocus, together with the most clear LCD screen in the category provides accurate picture display.

3 Canon EOS 80D Kit

Despite the appearance of more "fresh" devices, this proven model does not lose its relevance. For the middle class of SLR cameras, it gives, perhaps, the best quality photos, even in motion. At the same time, the camera supports up to 25 original RAW images in uncompressed format and 110 photos in the well-known JPEG. Therefore, many experts attribute this advanced SLR to the number of optimal solutions for shooting sports events and other active events.

A good combination of value and quality is confirmed by numerous reviews of satisfied buyers. All praise the mobile touch screen, elegant color reproduction and excellent video format Full HD. Often, people also note a good battery capacity, designed for 960 photos or 160 minutes of video. In addition, the camera is pleased with a number of modern technologies, including support for Wi-Fi, NFC and a connector for the remote control.

2 Nikon D7100 Kit

The camera does not belong to the full-frame, but according to the characteristics it is close to professional models. Attention is drawn to the 51-point autofocus module and 24-megapixel matrix. To increase the detail, the manufacturer removed the traditional optical low-pass filter. With this size of the matrix, this did not lead to the emergence of a moire, but allowed to improve the quality characteristics. Dynamic range corresponds to the class of semi-professional equipment, ISO remains working up to 1600.

Among other features, we note an enlarged screen of 3.2 inches, a viewfinder with a 100% frame coverage and a capacious battery. Optical zoom and autofocus in video adapt the camera for recording scenes.

The build quality of the case is not satisfactory. Many functions are displayed on the hot buttons of the case, the holder will appreciate the convenience of the grip during long-term use.

Nikon D7100 Kit will cope with the majority of creative tasks, suitable for both amateur and commercial shooting. The only drawback characteristic of non-professional SLR cameras is the small memory buffer. With a declared speed of 6 frames per second, it is instantly clogged. But the time-tested model is firmly held among the leaders of the ratings and represents the best value for money.

1 Canon EOS 70D Kit

Universal and robust model that has passed the test of time. Beginners amateurs will appreciate the intuitive menu and touch screen controls, while professionals will enjoy ergonomics with additional hot keys on the case. Protection against moisture and dust makes it possible to shoot in bad weather.

The camera has a best-in-class operating speed of 7 frames per second: a capacious memory buffer manages to process information without annoying hangs. The resolution of 20 megapixels is comparable to professional models. ISO up to 1600 (and sometimes up to 3200) photographers rate as working.

Autofocus has 19-points with cross-shaped sensors. This is comparatively little, but the new technology provides high speed focusing when taking photos and videos. With an STM lens, a SLR camera will be ideal for capturing scenes. A nice bonus is the Wi-Fi module that provides communication with a mobile phone.

Top Professional SLR Cameras

Professional SLR cameras are full-frame. They got their name thanks to a sensor that coincides in size with a full frame of 35 mm film. The picture in comparison with the cropping turns out to be sharp, detailed and large-scale. Professional cameras are also distinguished by increased requirements for ergonomics and reliability.Additional control buttons help professionals quickly adjust settings, and a reinforced body with dust and moisture protection to keep the camera when working in difficult conditions. Mirror for professionals sharpened by commercial shooting. Often they do not have automatic modes, a built-in flash, and a lens is not included with the camera.

3 Nikon D750 Body

Easy, accurate and fast model, the advantages of which reportage photographers will appreciate. Excellent dynamics created by the autofocus system: 51 focus points cover a significant part of the frame. With such parameters, it is comfortable to shoot scenes with fast moving objects. Everything related to the matrix, manufacturers have worked flawlessly: there is a high working ISO, and a wide dynamic range. Nikon D750 is equipped with a rare for professional-grade swivel screen.

The first places in the ratings of the best SLR cameras allows you to take a high speed of work - 6.5 frames per second. But the capacity of the clipboard is slightly cropped, the camera freezes and thinks about the processing of the footage.

The camera has characteristics comparable to professional video cameras: the shooting speed at a resolution of 1920 by 1080 pixels is up to 60 frames per second. There are connectors for an external microphone and headphones, capacious battery, two slots for memory cards.
The functionality of a mirror camera is enough for a commercial shooting, but some professionals are skeptical about this model. Confuses excessive versatility and cropped characteristics (for example, the minimum shutter speed of 1/4000).

2 Canon EOS 6D Body

One of the most affordable full-frame cameras Canon, which will reveal the possibilities of top-end optics. With lenses L-series gives high detail and low noise. Canon EOS 6D can shoot even night landscapes without using a flash. The number of focus points is not as great as I would like, but autofocus is sensitive and comfortable.

A nice bonus is the popular functions of Wi-Fi and GPS, which are still endowed with units of models. But this leads to the inevitable drawback - a plastic case that does not dampen third-party noise and signals.

The speed of 4.5 frames per second is not enough for professional reportage photography, but it is enough for most tasks. The video recording function has been worked out at a height, there are no complaints about the sound and detail.

The ergonomics are not bad, but the button functionality is expected to be cropped. For example, some photographers seem inconvenient to have a joystick combined with a wheel.

Minor flaws do not interfere with the SLR camera to occupy the first places in the ratings. Full-frame model outperforms competitors due to affordable cost. Canon EOS 6D - the best value for money.

1 Canon EOS 5D Mark III Body

The camera is considered the benchmark for quality in the world of photography and claims to be the best professional SLR camera. The third generation of the legendary 5D has become even more perfect. The full-frame 22-megapixel image sensor allows you to get the minimum depth of field and, in conjunction with the high-aperture fixed-lens, achieve a spectacular background blur. Even at night, the camera produces a sharp image with high detail. The magnesium alloy casing also contributes to noise reduction: the metal prevents the penetration of radio interference from mobile phones. In addition, the "carcass" has dust and moisture protection. Reliable technology is not afraid of light falls, rain and sandstorms.

61 focus points cover almost the entire area of ​​the frame. Autofocus does not fail even when shooting dynamic scenes. Video recording options are comparable to professional video cameras.

Ergonomics designed for tactile perception.In the control system, the manufacturer has thought through every little thing. For example, functions are controlled using a joystick, which is difficult to press by accident.

Canon EOS 5D Mark III occupies a leading position in the ratings. Even to write about such a camera is a pleasure, but to hold it in your hands is a dream.

Top SLR Cameras with Electronic Viewfinder

The fundamental difference between Sony SLR cameras and other brands is the technology with a translucent mirror and an electronic viewfinder. The photographer sees the image processed by the camera until the release button is pressed. Beginner is convenient to adjust the exposure, shutter speed, ISO and other parameters. However, when using the electronic viewfinder, additional time is spent on information processing, the image is transmitted with a delay, the photographer does not have time to monitor the movements in the frame. Especially this deficiency makes itself felt in the dark on budget models.

Attention also deserves the built-in stabilization system. The innovative solution reduces the likelihood of obtaining fuzzy images when shooting with hands, regardless of the lens used.

2 Sony Alpha ILCA-68 Kit

Today, the cost of the majority of Sony, which, however, has never been affordable, often exceeds the amount of seventy thousand rubles. With a functional proximity to such expensive models, this camera is even slightly cheaper than other advanced devices. Not surprisingly, many users in their reviews call it the best balance between high quality and efficiency.

As in more expensive Sony, an optical stabilizer is built into the reflex camera with an electronic viewfinder, which minimizes image blur when shooting with hands. Since the stabilization is carried out using the shift matrix, the stabilizer does not affect the compatibility with lenses, which is convenient for photographers who like to experiment with lenses. The camera also received a multizone exposure metering that calculates the right amount of light for a high-quality image. The best model is suitable for static shooting.

1 Sony Alpha ILCA-77M2 Kit

With a large margin in the TOP of the best devices with an electronic viewfinder, the SLR is in the lead for those who often deal with shooting dynamic scenes, such as sports events. After all, the shooting speed in serial mode reaches as much as 12 frames per second, and this is an absolute record among SLR cameras that can be found in stores at the moment. With this camera, the user will not miss a single moment. And an effective stabilizer will allow you to take the most clear pictures when shooting with hands in motion. Therefore, as photos Sony is not inferior to many professional cameras, less convenient to use.

The list of the main advantages of the model, among other things, included the best three-inch LCD-screen with the highest resolution - 2359000 pixels. Also, according to reviews, the camera offers a huge number of settings, which makes it a good choice for amateurs and even professional photographers.

Best SLR cameras with a waterproof case

Although the SLR camera is traditionally considered a studio technique, some of the best modern SLRs are not only relatively compact, but also unpretentious. The main threat to devices is reasonably considered to be moisture. When water enters the surface of a conventional device, it easily penetrates important components, causing minor malfunctions or even serious damage. Fortunately, many well-known manufacturers have paid attention to this problem and have developed special waterproof models, the body of which is quite tight and does not let moisture through.

With such a DSLR the rain is not a hindrance to the photographer. This gives a special advantage to professional shooting in the rain or in nature.Protection against water will not worry about the device, even on the beach. Moreover, some waterproof gadgets withstand short-term immersion in liquid. Therefore, the user can not only not worry about the security of the camera in contact with moisture, but also dive into the world of underwater photography! The mysterious world, full of bright colors and non-trivial species, is now really captured on a reflex camera. At the same time, representatives of this category are functionally in no way inferior to their more capricious counterparts to environmental conditions.

3 Nikon D810 Body

The three most worthy waterproof devices are opened by a professional SLR camera with protection against dust and direct water, suitable even for shooting in torrential rain. The camera, which has won a huge amount of positive feedback, is ideal for travelers. After all, thanks to a powerful battery, it can shoot video for more than three hours without recharging, which is an amazing indicator not only for this category, but for all modern DSLRs.

The possibility of voice recording of comments and observations will significantly save time, allowing you to concentrate directly on creativity and photography. The maximum image resolution with 4912 pixels vertically and 7360 horizontally, as well as the best matrix resolution, make the camera one of the most powerful representatives of the class. However, it is not suitable for beginners due to the abundance of settings and not enough detailed instructions.

2 Pentax K-1 Kit

Although Pentax is a little less known than concerns like Canon or Nikon, this DSLR is well known to most professional photographers who shoot in extreme conditions. After all, it is one of the few devices that are reliably protected not only from dust and water, but also from low temperatures. It can definitely be recommended to those who are looking for a reliable camera for shooting winter landscapes and even the northern lights. Unlike most competitors, this camera will not turn off or be discharged in a flash in the cold.

At the same time, professional quality of photos and practicality do not interfere with the convenience of the gadget. In a number of reviews among the advantages of the device mentioned pleasant and understandable ergonomics. A huge number of options and tinctures successfully combined with a wealth of automatic modes, which means that even a beginner can use the model. An additional advantage was the support of many formats, including AVI.

1 Canon EOS 5D Mark III Body

Most waterproof SLR cameras are protected only from short-term rain and are not designed for a large volume of fluid. According to the Canon brand, the Mark III maintains up to 15 minutes of work under a slanting shower and numerous tests and reviews confirm this. But with longer wetting water is still possible.

Nevertheless, this is so far the only SLR that can withstand even a small immersion in water, but only for a couple of minutes. However, for high-grade filming under water, it is recommended to purchase a waterproof case designed specifically for this camera. When protected by a cover, the SLR is even suitable for a photo while diving or surfing. The screen of the model has an excellent viewing angle and good resolution, so it is comfortable to work with it in very bright light. In addition, due to the maximum number of focus points, it is easily focused.

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