Mirrorless vs. DSLR Cameras

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Novice, amateur, or professional, there’s a question that seems to be on every photographer’s mind: What is the difference between mirrorless and DSLR cameras, and which one is better? Unfortunately, there is no clear-cut answer to which is better, since both types have their advantages and disadvantages. The final choice boils down to personal preferences, so you must consider the options and do your research before buying.

The two most important considerations to keep in mind when buying cameras are quality and versatility. There are plenty of DSLR and mirrorless cameras that are high quality and extremely versatile, which makes choosing between the two types even harder and more confusing.

In the last few years, mirrorless cameras have emerged as one of the most promising types of cameras, especially for newbies and amateur photographers. Manufacturers are pushing the limits of the capabilities of mirrorless cameras through amazing innovations that have put them on par with the previously popular DSLRs.

So how do we compare mirrorless vs DSLR cameras? Are mirrorless cameras better? In this comparison guide, we’ll review the pros and cons of each camera type to help you decide which will be better for you. We’ll also share the best mirrorless and DSLR cameras to consider at the end.

What Does “DSLR Camera” Mean?

DSLR cameras are based on the design of the 35mm film cameras that were used before digital cameras became widely available and used.

The DSLR’s design features a mirror that reflects the light coming through the lens to a prism and into the viewfinder where you look to see the shot. Pressing the shutter button causes the mirror to turn upwards, which allows the shutter to open and the light to pass through and hit the image sensor that captures the photograph.

What Does “Mirrorless Camera” Mean?

As the name implies, a mirrorless camera does not have a mirror in its mechanism because the light passes directly through the lens and hits the image sensor. This provides the shot preview that you can see on the rear screen.

Some mirrorless cameras have a second screen that serves as a digital viewfinder.

Now that we know how DSLR and Mirrorless cameras work, we will move on to the considerations in order to evaluate which type is better:

Pros and Cons of Mirrorless vs. DSLR Cameras

Advantages of Mirrorless Cameras

• Higher Stability: Mirrorless cameras provide excellent image and video stability. The mirror does not move up and down, resulting in more stable images and videos than DSLR cameras.
• Lower Noise: Mirrorless cameras do not have moving parts like DSLR cameras, so they are much quieter.
• Compact Size: Mirrorless cameras are compact and small. This makes them a better option for traveling.

Disadvantages of Mirrorless Cameras

• Shorter Battery Life: Mirrorless cameras are compact. Thus, you usually get a smaller battery size. On the other hand, the battery consumption is higher as it uses both the LCD screen and EVF while shooting.
• Limited Lens Selection: Not many manufacturers offer lenses for mirrorless cameras. This means you can’t experiment with as many techniques, shutter speeds, styles, etc.

Advantages of DSLR Cameras

• Better Performance: DSLR cameras are a better choice for professional photography as it offers a broader selection of lenses as compared to mirrorless cameras.
• Longer Battery Life: DSLR cameras can shoot without using the LCD screen and electronic viewfinder, unlike mirrorless cameras. That results in improved battery timing.
• Affordable Entry-level Prices: Both mirrorless and DSLR cameras are similarly priced. But entry-level DSLR cameras offer better features and performance at a lower price than most entry-level mirrorless cameras.

Disadvantages of DSLR Cameras

• Bulkier in Size: Most DSLR cameras are bulky, mainly because of the large lens size. Thus, they are not as travel-friendly as mirrorless cameras.

Dimensions & Weight

Since DSLR camera bodies equip a mirror and a prism, they are comparatively larger. Although newer models of DSLRs are becoming smaller than their predecessors, there is a limit to how compact they can get. They are still bulky without the kit lens. Understandably, they also weigh more.

In contrast, mirrorless camera bodies are more compact thanks to their simpler working mechanism. Top of the range examples are usually a couple of inches thick or even less. They are also lightweight.

Our Winner: Mirrorless Cameras – Lightweight and compact mirrorless cameras are easier to carry and store.

Autofocus

Previously, in terms of autofocus technology and speed, DSLRs outperformed mirrorless cameras. The phase-detection technology used in DSLRs measured the convergence of two light beams to focus on the image quickly. Mirrorless cameras, on the other hand, used contrast detection that relies on the image sensor to detect the highest contrast to decide the focus, which had trouble focusing swiftly, especially in low light conditions.

Nowadays, thanks to innovative technology, newer models of mirrorless cameras come with both contrast and phase-detection for speedy autofocus. The result of using both technologies is more refined autofocus.

Our Winner: Draw – latest models of both types offer fast autofocus.

Previewing Images

On most DSLRs, the optical viewfinder will show the preview of the exact image you will catch. On mirrorless cameras, the image preview is available on the digital screen or on the electric viewfinder (EVF), which simulates the optical viewfinders of DSLRs.

The limitation of previewing images on the screen or an electric viewfinder is that the image quality suffers when the camera is struggling to perform, for example, in low light conditions or while photographing fast-moving objects. In low light, in particular, DSLR’s optical viewfinder does a better job.

The advantage of a mirrorless camera EVF is that it allows you the see what exactly the final picture will look like, while DSLR optical viewfinders cannot. On a mirrorless camera, you will be able to adjust settings after previewing the image, which allows you greater control over the final result.

Our Winner: Draw – both types of cameras have their limitations and advantages when it comes to previewing images.

Image Stabilization

Most modern cameras, including mirrorless and DSLR, include various image stabilization technologies. Commonly, most cameras would have either sensor or lens stabilization that counteracts the camera movement with the help of a sensor, by shifting the lens or image sensor. Some mirrorless cameras have both stabilization technologies.

Both types of stabilization technology produce the same result. However, we favor sensor stabilization because it works even if you switch the lens. Lens stabilization works only with lenses that have this feature built-in.

The latest high-end models of mirrorless cameras have 5-axis image stabilization, which offers superior image stabilization in videography.

Our Winner: Mirrorless – the 5-axis image stabilization technology of newer, more expensive mirrorless camera models is an innovative technology that DSLR cameras do not offer.

Image Quality

The image quality of earlier versions of the mirrorless cameras was not as good as the DSLRs due to the smaller size of the image sensors. However, things have changed drastically thanks to the innovations made in image sensor technology for mirrorless cameras. Leading manufacturers now use more sensitive sensors that produce better quality images with less noise.

Both types of cameras can take high-quality pictures, with similar resolutions and amounts of graininess, known as noise. You can now find full-frame mirrorless cameras that offer the same (35mm) sensor size as premium DSLR cameras.

Our Winner: Draw – modern mirrorless cameras produce the same image quality as DSLR cameras.

Video Quality

Thanks to the advanced focus sensors and image stabilization on high-end mirrorless cameras, they perform better at shooting videos. In comparison, the phase-detection technology for autofocus used by DSLRs does not work while capturing video, which means they have a harder time producing sharp video quality.

Another benefit of a mirrorless camera is that it can also capture videos in higher resolution than DSLR.

The main advantage of using a DSLR camera for video shooting is the range of lenses that can be used.

Our Winner: Mirrorless – Mirrorless cameras have better autofocus and higher resolutions for superior video quality.

Shooting Speed

Although both types of cameras can shoot fast, the absence of a mirror and prism allows mirrorless cameras to take pictures more quickly with minimal noise. Mirrorless cameras often have the option of mechanical and electronic shutters. The latter is quicker, yet the mechanical shutter provides a better image result.

Winner: Mirrorless – the lack of complex mechanisms allows mirrorless cameras to have faster shutter speeds.

Image & Video Playback

When it comes to image & video playback, mirrorless and DSLR cameras have about the same performance. They both display images and videos on their 3-inch (approximately) screen, or you can connect them to your television via HDMI output. The best thing about the latest mirrorless and DSLR cameras is that most of them include a Wi-Fi feature that makes it easier to send images and videos to smartphones and other Wi-Fi enabled devices.

Our winner: Draw – Both mirrorless and DSLR cameras offer a large screen for image and video display, HDMI and Wi-Fi features.

Battery Life

If long battery life is amongst your top priorities, then DSLR would be a better choice for you. Most DSLR cameras can shoot without using the e-viewfinder or the LCD screen, which helps improve the battery life of the camera. Although both camera types usually come with similar battery life, mirrorless cameras consume more battery than DSLR. However, this problem can be solved by carrying a backup battery, since both camera types come with removable batteries.

Our winner: DSLR – DSLR cameras are usually more battery-efficient compared to mirrorless cameras because you can shoot without using the LCD screen or e-viewfinder. 

Lenses & Accessories

If you want a range of lens and accessory options, then you should opt for a DSLR camera. Several manufacturers offer hi-tech DSLR lenses and accessories of reliable quality at an affordable price. With mirrorless cameras, you have a limited range of lenses and accessories to choose from; thus, they are generally pricier than DSLR camera’s lenses and accessories.

If you talk about the lens size of both camera types, mirrorless cameras are a better option if you travel frequently and you want a more compact camera. On the other hand, if you want to play around with techniques, shutter speeds, styles, etc. by using different lenses, DSLR cameras are most definitely a better option.

Our winner: DSLR – Although DSLR lens size is generally larger than that of mirrorless cameras, you get a better range of lenses and accessories with DSLR cameras compared to mirrorless cameras. 

Durability

The durability differs from model to model in both mirrorless and DSLR cameras. If you select a model that offers an additional layer of protection against dust, water, and harsh weather, then understandably, the camera will be more durable. So, if you want a durable camera that will last for years to come, then make sure you select a camera that has an alloy body and is dustproof, weatherproof, and waterproof.

Our winner: Draw – Both mirrorless and DSLR cameras offer a similar level of durability.

Best Mirrorless Cameras

1. Sony a7 III – Best for Beginners

2. Canon EOS M50 – Best for Enthusiasts

Best DSLR Camera

1. Nikon D3500 – Best for Beginners

2. Canon EOS REBEL T7i – Best for Enthusiasts

Bottom Line

Both mirrorless and DSLR cameras have their advantages and disadvantages. If you talk about lighter weight, a more compact size, faster technology, and higher video stability, then mirrorless cameras take the lead.

On the other hand, with DSLR cameras, you can get better optical viewfinders, a more extensive selection of lenses and accessories, and an overall more professional image and video quality.

Therefore, if you are a beginner and you want to buy a camera to polish your photography skills without investing a hefty amount, then opt for a mirrorless camera. However, if you require professional results and you are willing to make a significant investment both money-wise and equipment-wise, you should most definitely opt for a DSLR camera.