Like many veteran shutterbugs, I prefer to use an interchangeable lens camera with a full-frame image sensor. Lenses have the same familiar angle they did on film prior to the advent of digital photography, and it’s easier to achieve a shallow depth of field look than with smaller sensor formats. Full-frame cameras run the gamut in terms of features and pricing, however, so you may have a hard time deciding between a balanced entry-level option like the Nikon Z5II or a high-resolution specialist like the Nikon Z 8, both of which are among our most highly rated models in the category. I’m here to help you choose, and you can trust my expertise, as I’ve been covering full-frame cameras for over a decade. Whether you’re shopping for a basic or advanced camera or one that’s best suited for stills, video, or a mix of both, I’ve got you covered with expert buying advice.
Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
EDITORS’ NOTE
December 18, 2025: With this update, we added the Canon EOS R6 Mark III and Sony a7 V and removed the Sony a7R V and a9 III. The other picks have been vetted for currency and availability. Since our last update, we reviewed and evaluated two new full-frame models for potential inclusion in this and other camera roundups.
- Full-frame 32.5MP pictures offer room to crop
- Up to 40fps continuous focus and drive with Raw quality
- Large EVF and articulating touch LCD
- Full-width video at up to 4K120 and 7K60
- Supports 3:2 open gate movies
- Works with CFe and SDXC memory cards
- Limited third-party lens support
- May overheat during long-form video capture
The EOS R6 Mark III is the best do-it-all Canon body for pros and enthusiasts. Its stabilized sensor delivers excellent images at 32.5MP resolution, plus it focuses quickly and accurately with a staggering 40fps maximum burst rate. Videographers and voggers will appreciate its video engine, which supports Raw capture plus open gate recording for easy delivery to both widescreen and vertical video platforms. The R6 Mark III is capable of handling almost anything.
Shutterbugs: The R6 Mark III excels in all types of photography, satisfying enthusiasts interested in everything from portraits to landscapes, nature, and more. It’s fast, weather protected, works with a healthy library of Canon RF lenses, and can use older Canon EF lenses with an adapter.
Professional photographers: With dual card slots, reliable autofocus, and a sturdy build, the R6 Mark III is a fine choice for pros who rely on photography to support their livelihood. It easily handles weddings and events, portraits, sports, real estate, and other paid gigs.
Wildlife and nature photographers: The R6 Mark III’s autofocus system features subject recognition modes for animals and birds, and it focuses at up to 40 frames per second, with a pre-capture mode. Add a telephoto like the RF 100-500mm or 200-800mm, and you’re set for taking photos of animals in the wild, and it’s just as good for sports with a 70-200mm.
Content creators: Raw video capture and 7K open gate make R6 Mark III a good option for content creators who want to publish on widescreen platforms like YouTube and vertical social media without having to do two takes. Experts can shoot in C-Log3 and grade their own footage, or choose from more than a dozen built-in cinematic color profiles for a stylized look out of the camera.
Dimensions
3.9 by 5.4 by 3.5 inches
Weight
1.5 lb
Type
Mirrorless
Sensor Resolution
32.5 MP
Sensor Type
BSI CMOS
Sensor Size
Full-Frame
Lens Mount
Canon RF
Memory Card Slots
2
Memory Card Format
SDXC (UHS-II), CFexpress (Type B)
Battery Type
Canon LP-E6P
Minimum ISO
100
Maximum ISO
102400
Stabilization
5-Axis IBIS
Display Size
3 inches
Display Resolution
1.6 million dots
Viewfinder Type
EVF
Viewfinder Magnification
0.76x
EVF Resolution
3.7 million dots
Connectivity
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, HDMI, USB-C, Remote (2.5mm), Microphone (3.5mm), Headphone (3.5mm)
Video Resolution
7K
HDMI Output
4:2:2 12-bit
Learn More
Canon EOS R6 Mark III Review
- Stabilized full-frame image sensor
- Large, sharp OLED viewfinder
- Up to 14fps Raw capture with 3D Tracking focus
- Dust- and splash-resistant construction
- Dual memory card slots for redundant recording
- Records N-Raw video to SDXC cards
- Middle of the road battery life
The Nikon Z5II sits comfortably between true budget options and professional-grade cameras in price, but doesn’t give up much versus the next model in Nikon’s line, the Z6III. The Z5II features the same excellent 3D tracking focus system with subject recognition, enabling a 14fps continuous focus drive, along with 4K30 Raw video capture. Weather-resistant construction, sensor stabilization, dual memory card slots, and a fantastic EVF round out the package. It offers more than I expect from a camera that costs around $1,700.
Beginners: The Z5II is priced affordably and includes a fully automatic mode, zippy autofocus, and excellent picture quality. It’s priced higher than the most basic options, but its large EVF and weather protection are worth the premium.
Shutterbugs: Enthusiasts who want a full-frame camera needn’t spend more on a pro body when the Z5II exists. It’s nearly as good as the pricier Z6III and costs hundreds of dollars less.
Sports and wildlife photographers: Nikon includes its capable 3D Tracking autofocus system in the Z5II. It focuses and takes photos at a brisk 14fps pace and includes subject recognition for people, animals, and vehicles. Simply add a telephoto lens of your choice to start capturing stunning nature and sports photos.
Professional photographers: The Z5II may qualify as an entry-level camera, but its feature set is well-suited for paid gigs. Its autofocus and picture quality are just as good as Nikon’s pro-grade Z6III, plus it includes dual memory card slots and a sturdy, weather-sealed build. It’s a fine backup to a Z6III or Z 8, and is good enough to be your main camera, too.
Dimensions
4.0 by 5.3 by 2.8 inches
Weight
1.5 lb
Type
Mirrorless
Sensor Resolution
24.5 MP
Sensor Type
BSI CMOS
Sensor Size
Full-Frame
Lens Mount
Nikon Z
Memory Card Slots
2
Memory Card Format
SDXC (UHS-II)
Battery Type
Nikon EN-EL15c
Minimum ISO
50
Maximum ISO
204800
Stabilization
5-Axis IBIS
Display Size
3.2 inches
Display Resolution
2.1 million dots
Viewfinder Type
EVF
Viewfinder Magnification
0.8x
EVF Resolution
3.7 million dots
Connectivity
Wi-Fi, micro HDMI, USB-C, Bluetooth, Microphone (3.5mm), Headphone (3.5mm)
Video Resolution
4K
HDMI Output
4:2:2 12-bit
Learn More
Nikon Z5II Review
- Stabilized full-frame sensor
- 3D Tracking focus at 20fps Raw
- Magnesium chassis with weather protection
- Large, extra bright viewfinder
- Up to 6K60 Raw and ProRes video
- Mediocre battery life
- Less dynamic range than peers
The Nikon Z6III is our favorite full-frame camera in its price range thanks to its cleverly balanced mix of photo and video features. Its Partially Stacked CMOS sensor reads out quickly to minimize rolling shutter distortion and make full-width 4K60 recording a reality; plus, the camera supports 12-bit N-Raw and ProRes video, as well as 14-bit color for stills. A large, bright viewfinder, swing-out touch display, dual card slots, and weather protection cement the Z6III’s position as a camera upon which both enthusiasts and professionals can rely.
Shutterbugs: The Z6III has the chops to satisfy photo hobbyists. Its stabilized full-frame sensor gets clear photos with softly defocused backgrounds, autofocus is among the best in its class, and it includes a large viewfinder, weather protection, and a large lens library.
Sports and wildlife photographers: You can take full-quality photos at a brisk 20fps pace with the Z6III, and its autofocus system is smart enough to identify and track people, wildlife, and vehicles. Add a telephoto lens, and you can use it to capture field and motorsports, as well as animals in the wild.
Professional photographers: The Z6III is the first choice in the Nikon system for weddings, portraits, and other paid photo gigs. It focuses quickly and accurately, with eye detection for people and pets, and includes the tough build, weather sealing, and dual memory card slots you want to get you through a day of work.
Content creators: Vloggers and videographers will appreciate how well the Z6III’s fast-reading Partially Stacked sensor captures motion, as well as its 6K60 resolution, ProRes and N-Raw encoding, and wide range of color profiles.
Dimensions
4.0 by 5.5 by 2.9 inches
Weight
1.5 lb
Type
Mirrorless
Sensor Resolution
24.5 MP
Sensor Type
Partially Stacked BSI CMOS
Sensor Size
Full-Frame
Lens Mount
Nikon Z
Memory Card Slots
2
Memory Card Format
SDXC (UHS-II), XQD/CFexpress (Type B)
Battery Type
Nikon EN-EL15c
Minimum ISO
50
Maximum ISO
204800
Stabilization
5-Axis IBIS
Display Size
3.2 inches
Display Resolution
2.1 million dots
Viewfinder Type
EVF
Viewfinder Magnification
0.8x
EVF Resolution
5.8 million dots
Connectivity
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Nikon DC2, HDMI, USB-C, Microphone (3.5mm), Headphone (3.5mm)
Video Resolution
6K
HDMI Output
4:2:2 10-bit
Learn More
Nikon Z6III Review
Best for High-Res Snaps and Raw Video
Nikon Z 8
- Sturdy, weather-sealed build
- Large, crisp EVF with interruption-free capture
- Dual-axis touch LCD
- 20fps Raw and 120fps JPG bursts
- Backlit buttons
- Internal N-Raw and ProRes video capture
- Up to 8K60 or 4K120 video
- Heavier than competitors
- Average battery life
The Nikon Z 8 is a versatile mirrorless camera that focuses and shoots with incredible speed (20fps for RAW, 30fps for JPEG). Its 45MP Stacked CMOS sensor reads out quickly enough to freeze motion and supports interruption-free capture thanks to the fully electronic shutter and large, quality EVF. 3D Tracking autofocus is on board, as are numerous high-end video capabilities, including 8K Raw and 4K ProRes recording to CFe memory.
Shutterbugs: The Nikon Z 8 is a full-featured camera that will satisfy image makers who take their photography hobby seriously. With a 45MP resolution, it provides ample room to crop and still produce large prints. It also features a well-organized control layout that allows you to take control over exposure, and it is compatible with a large library of Z-mount lenses.
Sports and wildlife photographers: You get both resolution and speed with the Z 8; it takes 45MP Raw photos at a brisk 20fps capture rate, and its focus system tracks and recognizes people, animals, and vehicles. There are numerous telephoto lenses that work well with the camera, making it a suitable choice for field and motorsports photography, as well as animal and bird photography.
Professional photographers: Working photographers can rely on the Z 8 to be a workhorse. It’s built to withstand the rigors of daily use, features a fully electronic shutter, so you won’t have to worry about creating a clicking distraction at weddings in a quiet cathedral, and includes dual memory card slots that are a must-have for event coverage.
Content creators: The Z 8 rolls video at up to 8K and supports H.265, ProRes, and N-RAW video encoding. It’s just as suitable for video as it is for photos.
Dimensions
4.7 by 5.7 by 3.3 inches
Weight
2 lb
Type
Mirrorless
Sensor Resolution
45.7 MP
Sensor Type
Stacked CMOS
Sensor Size
Full-Frame
Lens Mount
Nikon Z
Memory Card Slots
2
Memory Card Format
XQD/CFexpress (Type B), SDXC (UHS-II)
Battery Type
Nikon EN-EL15c
Minimum ISO
32
Maximum ISO
102400
Stabilization
5-Axis IBIS
Display Size
3.2 inches
Display Resolution
2.1 million dots
Viewfinder Type
EVF
Viewfinder Magnification
0.8x
EVF Resolution
3.7 million dots
Connectivity
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C, HDMI, Microphone (3.5mm), Headphone (3.5mm), Remote (Nikon 10-Pin)
Video Resolution
8K
HDMI Output
4:2:2 10-bit
Learn More
Nikon Z 8 Review
The Sony a7 V impresses us with its stabilized 33MP sensor, which uses a partially stacked architecture to minimize rolling shutter and capture photos at a brisk 30fps rate at full 14-bit Raw quality. Sony’s autofocus system has a slight edge over competitors with its broad set of subject recognition targets (it identifies and tracks everything from insects to airplanes), and it’s a capable video camera that records full-width 10-bit 4K60 and Super35 4K120 slow-motion.
Shutterbugs: The a7 V is sure to satisfy photo enthusiasts thanks to its extensive library of first- and third-party lenses, exquisite 33MP image sensor, 30fps tracking focus, and robust 4K video engine, plus it boasts the best battery life of any model in the class. It’s a do-it-all camera that can tackle any genre of photography.
Professional photographers: The a7 V is a reliable camera for pros who earn a living by making images. Its focus is fast and reliable, plus it has dual memory card slots so you can backup shots in real time, a must-have for weddings and events where you don’t get a chance for a do-over.
Sports and wildlife photographers: The a7 V focuses fast and supports an excellent 30fps drive mode, plus it has a useful pre-capture mode. Its subject recognition system includes modes for people, larger animals, and birds. Add a telephoto lens, and it can tackle everything from the big game to a national park outing.
- Tiny full-frame camera with stabilized sensor
- Widescreen cinematic vlog mode
- S-Cinetone and S-Log3 picture profiles
- Great-looking 10-bit 4K60 video
- 4K120 and 1080p240 slow-motion
- Excellent stabilization system
- Quality in-camera audio
- Fragile micro HDMI port
- Can overheat at 4K60
- No mechanical shutter
You can use almost any camera (or a decent smartphone) to record video for your vlog channel, but production values suffer if you stick to in-camera audio and don’t have a camera operator to change angles during takes. The ZV-E1 solves both those problems for solo creators thanks to its crisp, three-capsule stereo mic and various AI-powered pan and zoom assists. A front-facing screen and 5-axis sensor stabilization round out the package.
Content creators: Vloggers who work solo without a crew will appreciate the ZV-E1’s AI-powered camera assistant, which adds dynamic pans and zooms to static shots. It’s also a good choice for talented vloggers who may not have extensive camera know-how, as it makes it easy to switch between a blurry and focused background, and features a special focus mode to improve autofocus accuracy when showcasing a product to your audience.
Dimensions
2.8 by 4.8 by 2.1 inches
Weight
1.1 lb
Type
Mirrorless
Sensor Resolution
12 MP
Sensor Type
BSI CMOS
Sensor Size
Full-Frame
Lens Mount
Sony E
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
SDXC (UHS-II)
Battery Type
Sony NP-FZ100
Minimum ISO
80
Maximum ISO
409600
Stabilization
5-Axis IBIS
Display Size
3 inches
Display Resolution
1.04 million dots
Viewfinder Type
None
Connectivity
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, micro HDMI, USB-C, Headphone (3.5mm), Microphone (3.5mm)
Video Resolution
4K
HDMI Output
4:2:2 10-bit
Learn More
Sony ZV-E1 Review
- Dedicated black-and-white sensor
- Bright optical finder
- Works with M lenses
- 256GB internal storage
- Dust- and splash-resistant build
- USB-C charging and data port
- Works with Leica Fotos app for Android and iOS
- Expensive
- Doesn’t support color imaging or video
- Glass filters required for color balance
- Manual focus not for everyone
There’s no other camera quite like the Leica M11 Monochrom. For one, the German-made full-framer is a rangefinder. It uses an optical viewfinder and requires manual focus. And then there’s the sensor: The 60MP BSI CMOS imager sees the world in black and white, not color. We love that the M series aesthetics haven’t changed dramatically since the 1950s, as well. We just wish it didn’t cost so much.
Black-and-white photographers: The M11 Monochrom’s image captures the world in glorious shades of gray. It encourages you to look for scenes with dramatic light and shadow, capturing more detail and richer tonality than cameras with color sensors.
Rangefinder aficionados: Leica’s M rangefinders are fundamentally different than most cameras on the market. The M11 Monochrom features a fixed optical viewfinder, manual focus lenses, and simplified controls, offering a back-to-basics approach to photography.
Dimensions
3.2 by 5.5 by 1.2 inches
Weight
1.2 lb
Type
Rangefinder
Sensor Resolution
60 MP
Sensor Type
BSI CMOS
Sensor Size
Full-Frame
Lens Mount
Leica M
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
SDXC (UHS-II)
Battery Type
Leica BP-SCL7
Minimum ISO
125
Maximum ISO
200000
Stabilization
None
Display Size
3 inches
Display Resolution
2.33 million dots
Viewfinder Type
Optical
Viewfinder Magnification
0.72x
Connectivity
USB-C, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
Video Resolution
None
HDMI Output
None
Learn More
Leica M11 Monochrom Review
Best Full-Frame With Gripped Body Style
Nikon Z 9
- Stacked sensor eliminates need for mechanical shutter
- 45MP full-frame imaging leaves room to crop
- Reliable 3D tracking autofocus
- Intelligent subject recognition
- Ample wired and wireless connectivity options
- Big, gripped body for pro SLR fans
- Innovative articulating rear display
- 8K ProRes Raw and 4K ProRes 422 HQ video
- Large body style not for everyone
- Banding may appear in scenes with digital signage
- Z lens system isn’t fully built out
The Nikon Z 9 is one of the biggest mirrorless cameras around, but that’s part of its appeal. As the spiritual successor to the D6 SLR, it targets photographers who prefer a body style with an integrated grip, making the camera more comfortable in a vertical orientation and providing space for an extra-large battery. Among its impressive tech features are a Stacked BSI CMOS sensor with 45MP resolution, 30fps focus with 3D Tracking and subject recognition, and up to 8K video with N-Raw encoding.
Professional photographers: The Z 9 is the lone option in the Nikon Z series with an integrated vertical grip, a must-have feature for pros who prefer to use a larger camera body. It accommodates dual CFexpress memory card slots and features the largest battery of any Z camera, along with a stabilized 45MP Stacked CMOS sensor.
Sports and wildlife photographers: Creators who use large, telephoto lenses to capture images of field sports and animals in the wild will appreciate the Z 9’s oversized body and substantial battery. The Auto Capture feature utilizes subject detection to capture photos of animals whenever they come into view, a feature exclusive to Nikon, making it also function as a wildlife trap camera.
Enthusiasts with large hands: You can spend less and get most of the same features with the smaller Z 8, but if you have extra-large hands, you’ll likely prefer the Z 9’s ergonomics. Its feature set is probably too much for weekend photographers and shutterbugs, but if smaller cameras feel like toys in your hands, the Z 9 is your answer.
Dimensions
5.9 by 5.9 by 3.6 inches
Weight
2.9 lb
Type
Mirrorless
Sensor Resolution
45.7 MP
Sensor Type
Stacked CMOS
Sensor Size
Full-Frame
Lens Mount
Nikon Z
Memory Card Slots
2
Memory Card Format
CFexpress (Type B), XQD
Battery Type
Nikon EN-EL18d
Minimum ISO
32
Maximum ISO
102400
Stabilization
5-Axis IBIS
Display Size
3.2 inches
Display Resolution
2.1 million dots
Viewfinder Type
EVF
Viewfinder Magnification
0.8x
EVF Resolution
3.7 million dots
Connectivity
GPS, HDMI, USB-C, Microphone (3.5mm), Headphone (3.5mm), Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, PC Sync, Remote (Nikon 10-Pin), Kensington Lock Slot, Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45)
Video Resolution
8K
HDMI Output
4:2:2 10-bit
Learn More
Nikon Z 9 Review
- Compact body with full-frame sensor.
- Vari-angle LCD.
- Integrated EVF.
- Quick, accurate autofocus.
- Macro stacking and time-lapse tools.
- Wi-Fi.
- Attractive price.
- Small EVF.
- Low-cost native lenses not available yet.
- Inconsistent face and eye detection.
- 4K video suffers from heavy crop.
- Sensor shows limited dynamic range.
- Small battery.
- No built-in flash.
The EOS RP is the most affordable way to get into full-frame photography. It is a capable starter camera thanks to its full-frame sensor, compact body style, and support for Canon RF lenses. The RP is less capable than more expensive alternatives for action because it tops out at 5fps and omits the advanced subject recognition focus included in the EOS R8 and other upmarket Canons, but it’s a fine choice for portraiture, landscapes, and everyday photography.
Beginners: If you want to try a full-frame camera, but are still learning the ropes, the EOS RP is a good starting point. It’s easy to use in its full automatic mode, and includes the manual controls you’ll crave as you gain experience. The large sensor does a good job in all types of light and produces the desirable blurred background look when used with a wide-aperture lens.
Photographers on a budget: Getting a full-frame camera for under $1,000 is no small feat, especially when considering the significant price increases we’ve seen this year. Canon has some good, affordable lenses in its lineup, too, including the 24-105mm STM kit lens that’s often bundled with the RP, and the RF 26mm and RF 50mm F1.8 primes.
Dimensions
3.5 by 5.2 by 2.8 inches
Weight
1.1 lb
Type
Mirrorless
Sensor Resolution
26 MP
Sensor Type
CMOS
Sensor Size
Full-Frame (24 x 36mm)
Lens Mount
Canon RF
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
SDXC (UHS-II)
Battery Type
Canon LP-E17
Minimum ISO
50
Maximum ISO
102400
Stabilization
None
Display Size
3.0 inches
Display Resolution
1.04 million dots
Viewfinder Type
EVF
Viewfinder Magnification
0.7x
EVF Resolution
2.36 million dots
Connectivity
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, Remote (Canon E3), USB-C, mini HDMI, Headphone (3.5mm), Microphone (3.5mm)
Video Resolution
4K
HDMI Output
4:2:2 8-bit
Learn More
Canon EOS RP Review
- Stabilized full-frame sensor
- Impressively small body style
- Magnesium build with dust and splash protection
- Best-in-class autofocus system
- Long battery life
- Just a single card slot
- Mechanical shutter has some limitations
- Undersized viewfinder
The Sony a7C II mirrorless camera is no larger than the APS-C a6700, but it features a 35mm format sensor with stabilization. It uses the same 33MP BSI CMOS chip as the a7 IV, but with a newer autofocus system that recognizes a wider range of subjects, including birds, cars, insects, and people. Lens selection is a positive aspect as well: The 28-60mm kit lens is compact, and Sony offers a series of small F2.5 primes, as well as a few svelte F2.8 zooms, to round out your options.
Travel photographers: The a7C II’s light, weather-protected body is ideal for travel. You can find room for it and a small lens or two in your carry-on, and you won’t mind toting it around for vacation snaps.
Shutterbugs: Enthusiasts who prefer a compact camera will appreciate the a7C II’s stabilized full-frame sensor, eye-level viewfinder, articulating touch screen, class-leading autofocus system, and extensive lens library.
Dimensions
2.8 by 4.9 by 2.5 inches
Weight
18.1 oz
Type
Mirrorless
Sensor Resolution
33 MP
Sensor Type
BSI CMOS
Sensor Size
Full-Frame
Lens Mount
Sony E
Memory Card Slots
1
Memory Card Format
SDXC (UHS-II)
Battery Type
Sony NP-FZ100
Minimum ISO
50
Maximum ISO
204800
Stabilization
5-Axis IBIS
Display Size
3 inches
Display Resolution
1.04 million dots
Viewfinder Type
EVF
Viewfinder Magnification
0.7x
EVF Resolution
2.4 million dots
Connectivity
Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, micro HDMI, Microphone (3.5mm), Headphone (3.5mm), USB-C
Video Resolution
4K
HDMI Output
4:2:2 10-bit
Learn More
Sony a7C II Review
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The Best Full-Frame Cameras for 2026
Compare Specs
Buying Guide: The Best Full-Frame Cameras for 2026
Should You Get a Mirrorless Body, an SLR, or Something Else?
Choosing the right full-frame model for you isn’t the easiest prospect. You need to decide if you want to go with an SLR or mirrorless model—or to buck expectations and opt for a rangefinder or fixed-lens camera instead.
How PCMag Tests Digital Cameras
I recommend mirrorless cameras most strongly since they’ve long overtaken SLRs in autofocus performance and provide access to the latest lenses. Mirrorless cameras offer wider autofocus coverage, faster burst rates, and significantly better video quality than traditional optical viewfinder models. If you’re not ready to move on, you can still obtain an excellent SLR from Canon, Nikon, or Pentax, although you’ll miss out on the latest focus and video features and will likely need to turn to the used market for some lenses.
If you’re considering switching from an SLR to a mirrorless camera, look for an adapter to use with your existing lenses. Canon and Nikon both offer adapters for their respective systems, while other accessories, such as flashes, often work without add-ons.
Canon EOS R6 Mark III (Credit: Jim Fisher)
The advantages of mirrorless systems are numerous. They use fewer moving parts, for instance, and engineers can put the autofocus system directly on the sensor. As a result, you never need to make focus calibration adjustments, as was the case with SLRs, and focus points can extend to the edge of the frame. Photographers used to optical viewfinders might require an adjustment period, but an electronic viewfinder (EVF) makes it easier to judge exposure settings than ever before.
Video is the other arena in which mirrorless cameras outpace most competing SLRs. On-sensor focus systems enable cameras to keep up with moving subjects when recording movies. Recent models even support intelligent subject recognition, allowing them to focus perfectly on eyes for portraits or keep track of a bird hopping from branch to branch. Most full-frame mirrorless cameras feature in-body image stabilization (IBIS), allowing you to capture steady handheld video and use longer exposure times for photos without needing a tripod.
Nikon Z 9 (Credit: Jim Fisher)
It’s still easy to take great photos with SLRs, even if they don’t offer as many advanced features as mirrorless rivals. Professionals with years of muscle memory might find that familiar ergonomics trump technical advantages. Others might simply prefer an old-school optical viewfinder.
And there’s the road less traveled. There are cameras with full-frame sensors, such as the Leica M11-P rangefinder, which is a purely manual focus camera featuring an optical viewfinder and no video support.
There are even a few cameras available with 24-by-36mm sensors and fixed lenses. The Leica Q3, Q3 43, and Q2 Monochrom, along with the Sony RX1R III, represent the current crop.
What Are Your Full-Frame System Options?
Fixed-lens outliers aside, most photographers who purchase a full-frame camera will ultimately opt for an interchangeable-lens model. Before settling on a particular camera, ensure it’s part of a system that meets all your photography challenges.
Nikon Z5II (Credit: Jim Fisher)
Canon has two full-frame systems available. Its well-established SLR series uses the EF lens mount and offers cameras ranging from entry-level to professional. In 2018, it introduced the EOS R mirrorless family, which utilizes the RF mount but can also accommodate EF lenses via an inexpensive adapter. All of Canon’s development efforts are now behind RF, and we don’t expect any more EF lens or camera releases going forward.
In addition to its iconic M rangefinder series, Leica launched a mirrorless system in 2015 with the SL camera. It lived in its niche for a few years, but that changed at the 2018 Photokina conference. Leica announced that Panasonic and Sigma were joining it to form the L-Mount Alliance. The trio has put together an interesting mix of cameras. Panasonic has video-tuned options with consumer-friendly prices, Leica makes luxury-priced options, and Sigma covers the quirky side of the market with its BF and fp cameras.
Recommended by Our Editors
Like Canon, Nikon has two full-frame systems. You can opt for an SLR, which uses the F-mount, and the mirrorless Z-mount system, which launched in 2018. Nikon has been focusing on developing new Z cameras and lenses since introducing the line. Its last SLR of note was 2020’s D780, and we don’t expect to see any more Nikon SLRs going forward.
Pentax is an iconic SLR brand, but it doesn’t offer owners many choices when it comes to full-frame cameras. It has released two—the K-1 and K-1 Mark II—and the Mark II’s upgrades are minimal. Both use a 36MP sensor, include weather protection, and offer in-body stabilization.
Sony a7 V (Credit: Jim Fisher)
Sony cameras are now all mirrorless. Its full-frame and APS-C lines share the same E lens system and work with A-mount lenses from its retired SLR system via an adapter. The mirrorless system is one of the most popular and fully developed. After more than a decade in the market, the company has delivered models tuned for high-speed action, high-resolution capture, and high-quality video. There are numerous lenses available, both first- and third-party, and Sony continues to sell older models at lower prices, thereby broadening the appeal for entry-level buyers.
Get the Right Camera
It’s easy to buy a full-frame camera—you just need a credit card. It’s getting the right one that can be tricky. Once you’ve settled on the right system, make sure the model you choose meets your needs. Photographers interested in action should look for one with great autofocus and a fast burst rate, while fine art and landscape specialists should seek out a high-resolution model with extreme dynamic range.
You can take a look at our latest reviews to see what’s just come to market. We also have some tips for enthusiasts who want to get more out of their cameras, along with guides that provide instructions on capturing great shots of fireworks and lightning.
