John Holguin
As a photography enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for the best cameras that offer great value for the price. Mirrorless cameras have gained popularity in recent years for their compact size and impressive image quality. In this article, I will highlight some of the best mirrorless cameras available for under $500.
When it comes to choosing a mirrorless camera on a budget, it’s important to consider factors such as image quality, features, and usability. The cameras on this list offer a good balance of these aspects while being affordable for those looking to get started in photography or upgrade their gear without breaking the bank.
Whether you are a beginner looking to explore the world of mirrorless cameras or a seasoned photographer in search of a budget-friendly option, the cameras featured in this article are sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations. Let’s dive into the world of sub $500 mirrorless cameras and discover the best options available.
My Experience with the Fujifilm X-A7 Mirrorless Camera
As an amateur photographer looking for a budget-friendly mirrorless camera, I recently purchased the Fujifilm X-A7. I was drawn to its compact size and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around for outdoor shoots.
One of the standout features of the Fujifilm X-A7 is its impressive 24.2MP APS-C sensor, which delivers stunning image quality with vibrant colours and sharp details. The camera’s autofocus system is fast and accurate, ensuring that I can capture sharp images with ease.
- The Fujifilm X-A7’s 4K video recording capabilities allow me to create high-quality videos with excellent clarity and detail.
- Its flip-out touchscreen LCD is perfect for vlogging and capturing selfies, adding versatility to my photography.
- The camera’s built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity make it convenient to transfer photos to my smartphone for quick sharing on social media.
My Experience with the Sony Alpha a6000
Having used the Sony Alpha a6000 for photography for quite some time now, I can confidently say that it has exceeded my expectations in terms of performance and features.
One of the standout features of the Sony Alpha a6000 is its impressive autofocus system, which allows for quick and accurate focusing, even in challenging lighting conditions. This has been particularly useful when capturing fast-moving subjects or shooting in low-light environments.
- The camera’s compact size and lightweight design make it easy to carry around, making it a great option for travel or everyday use.
- The electronic viewfinder provides a clear and accurate preview of the shot, allowing me to compose my images with precision.
- The tilting LCD screen has also been a handy feature for capturing shots from different angles, especially for creative compositions.
My Experience with the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III
As a photography enthusiast, I recently had the opportunity to try out the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III mirrorless camera. I was impressed by its compact size and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around for hours of shooting without feeling fatigued. The camera body felt sturdy and well-built, giving me confidence in its durability.
One of the standout features of the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III was its image quality. The 16-megapixel sensor delivered sharp and vibrant photos, even in low light conditions. The built-in image stabilization system helped me capture clear shots without the need for a tripod, which was especially useful for shooting on the go.
- The camera’s autofocus system was fast and accurate, allowing me to capture fleeting moments with ease.
- I found the intuitive menu system and customizable controls to be user-friendly, making it easy to adjust settings on the fly.
- The tilting touchscreen LCD was convenient for framing shots from different angles, and the electronic viewfinder provided a clear and accurate preview of the final image.
My Experience with the Panasonic Lumix GX85
Having used the Panasonic Lumix GX85 for quite some time now, I can confidently say that it’s a fantastic mirrorless camera that offers a great balance of features and performance at an affordable price point.
One of the standout features of the Lumix GX85 is its compact and lightweight design, making it perfect for on-the-go shooting without compromising on image quality. The 16-megapixel sensor delivers sharp and detailed images, while the 5-axis image stabilization ensures that my shots are always clear and steady.
- The GX85’s 4K video recording capabilities allow me to capture stunning footage with excellent clarity and detail.
- The tilting touchscreen display makes it easy to compose shots from different angles, while the electronic viewfinder provides a clear view of the scene even in bright sunlight.
- With a wide range of customizable settings and shooting modes, the Lumix GX85 gives me the flexibility to experiment with different styles and techniques.
My Take on the Canon EOS M50
When it comes to compact mirrorless cameras under 500, the Canon EOS M50 stands out as a reliable choice for both beginners and enthusiasts. As an avid photographer, I appreciate the M50’s compact size and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around for long shooting sessions.
The Canon EOS M50 offers impressive image quality with its 24.1-megapixel APS-C sensor and DIGIC 8 processor. I’ve been able to capture sharp and detailed photos with vibrant colours that truly stand out. The camera’s Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus system ensures fast and accurate focusing, perfect for capturing moving subjects or achieving precise focus in various shooting scenarios.
- The vari-angle touchscreen LCD makes it easy to compose shots from different angles
- The 4K video recording capability allows for high-quality video content creation
- The built-in electronic viewfinder provides a clear and immersive shooting experience
Nikon Z50: A Compact Mirrorless Camera Packed with Features
As an avid photography enthusiast, I have always been on the lookout for a compact mirrorless camera that delivers exceptional performance without breaking the bank. The Nikon Z50 caught my attention with its impressive specifications and compact design.
Equipped with a 20.9-megapixel APS-C sensor, the Nikon Z50 delivers stunning image quality and vibrant colours. The camera’s 209-point hybrid autofocus system ensures fast and accurate focusing, making it ideal for capturing sharp images of moving subjects.
- The tilting touchscreen LCD makes it easy to compose shots from various angles.
- The Z50’s 11fps continuous shooting mode is perfect for capturing fast-paced action.
- With 4K video recording capabilities, this camera is versatile for both stills and video shooting.
Sony Alpha a5100
As an enthusiast photographer looking for a compact mirrorless camera under $500, the Sony Alpha a5100 caught my attention. This camera offers impressive image quality and versatility in a compact and lightweight body.
With its 24.3-megapixel APS-C sensor, the Sony Alpha a5100 delivers stunning images with sharp details and vibrant colors. The camera’s fast autofocus system and 179 phase-detection points ensure that I can capture sharp and focused shots, even in challenging lighting conditions.
- The Sony Alpha a5100 features a 3-inch tilting touchscreen display, making it easy to compose shots from different angles.
- Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity allow for seamless sharing of images to my smartphone or tablet.
- Overall, the Sony Alpha a5100 is a great choice for photographers looking for a budget-friendly mirrorless camera without compromising on image quality and performance.
Conclusion
The Panasonic Lumix G7 is a versatile and feature-packed mirrorless camera that offers excellent image quality and performance at an affordable price point. With its 16-megapixel sensor, 4K video recording capability, and fast autofocus system, the Lumix G7 is a great choice for both still photography and video shooting.
Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry around for everyday use or travel, while the ergonomic grip ensures comfortable handling during extended shooting sessions. The tilting touchscreen LCD and electronic viewfinder provide flexible shooting options, and the built-in Wi-Fi connectivity allows for easy sharing of images and remote camera control.
- Pros:
- Great image quality
- 4K video recording
- Fast autofocus system
- Compact and lightweight
- Tilting touchscreen LCD
- Cons:
- Plastic construction may feel less premium
- No in-body image stabilization
- Limited selection of native Micro Four Thirds lenses
Best sub 500 mirrorless cameras
Canon EOS R100 Mirrorless Camera, RF Mount, 24.1 MP, DIGIC 8 Image Processor, Continuous Shooting, Eye Detection AF, Full HD Video, 4K, Small, Lightweight,...
Features
| Part Number | 6052C002 |
| Model | 6052C002 |
| Warranty | 1 year manufacturer |
| Color | Black |
| Release Date | 2023-06-27T00:00:01Z |
| Price history for Canon EOS R100 Mirrorless Camera, RF Mount, 24.1 MP, DIGIC 8 Image Processor, Continuous Shooting, Eye Detection AF, Full HD Video, 4K, Small, Lightweight, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Content Creation | |
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Canon EOS R50 Mirrorless Vlogging Camera (Body Only/White), RF Mount, 24.2 MP, 4K Video, DIGIC X Image Processor, Subject Detection & Tracking, Compact,...
Features
| Part Number | 5812C002 |
| Model | 5812C002 |
| Warranty | 1 year manufacturer |
| Color | White |
| Release Date | 2023-03-16T00:00:01Z |
| Price history for Canon EOS R50 Mirrorless Vlogging Camera (Body Only/White), RF Mount, 24.2 MP, 4K Video, DIGIC X Image Processor, Subject Detection & Tracking, Compact, Smartphone Connection, Content Creator | |
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| Price history for Nikon Z 5 | Our most compact full-frame mirrorless stills/video camera | Nikon USA Model | |
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Canon EOS R10 (Body Only), Mirrorless Vlogging Camera, 24.2 MP, 4K Video, DIGIC X Image Processor, High-Speed Shooting, Subject Tracking, Compact,...
Features
| Part Number | 5331C002 |
| Model | 5331C002 |
| Warranty | 1 year manufacturer |
| Color | Black |
| Release Date | 2022-07-28T00:00:01Z |
Canon EOS R8 Mirrorless Camera RF24-50mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens Kit, Full-Frame Hybrid Camera, 24.2 Megapixel CMOS Image Sensor, 4K Video, Content Creator...
Features
| Part Number | 5803C012 |
| Model | 5803C012 |
| Warranty | 1 year manufacturer |
| Color | Black |
| Release Date | 2023-04-18T00:00:01Z |
| Size | EOS R8 w/RF24-50mm |
| Price history for Sony Alpha 7C Full-frame Compact Mirrorless Camera Kit - Silver (ILCE7CL/S) | |
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Canon EOS RP Full-frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera + RF24-105mm Lens F4-7.1 IS STM Lens Kit- Compact and Lightweight for Traveling and Vlogging,...
Features
| Part Number | 3380C132 |
| Model | 3380C132 |
| Warranty | 1 Year Manufacturer |
| Color | Black |
| Release Date | 2020-04-29T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 105mm |
| Price history for Canon EOS RP Full-frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera + RF24-105mm Lens F4-7.1 IS STM Lens Kit- Compact and Lightweight for Traveling and Vlogging, Black (3380C132) | |
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Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50-250mm VR | Compact all-in-one telephoto zoom lens with image stabilization for APS-C size/DX format Z series mirrorless cameras...
Features
| Part Number | 20085 |
| Model | 20085 |
| Warranty | All new Nikon cameras, lenses, flashes and accessories include a one-year limited warranty. During this period, if the product is found to be defective in material or workmanship, Nikon Inc or one of its authorized repair facilities will either repair or replace the product without charge (as long as it meets the terms of the warranty). No registration or “warranty” card is needed with these products; simply retain your original dated proof-of-purchase in case warranty service is needed. We recommend registering your product so we can send you information about future updates or service issues that may arise. |
| Color | Black |
| Release Date | 2019-11-07T00:00:01Z |
| Price history for Nikon NIKKOR Z DX 50-250mm VR | Compact all-in-one telephoto zoom lens with image stabilization for APS-C size/DX format Z series mirrorless cameras (standard to long telephoto) | Nikon USA Model | |
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Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-200mm VR | Compact all-in-one telephoto zoom lens with image stabilization for Z series mirrorless cameras | Nikon USA Model
Features
| Part Number | 20092 |
| Model | 20092 |
| Warranty | All new Nikon cameras, lenses, flashes and accessories include a one-year limited warranty. During this period, if the product is found to be defective in material or workmanship, Nikon Inc or one of its authorized repair facilities will either repair or replace the product without charge (as long as it meets the terms of the warranty). No registration or “warranty” card is needed with these products; simply retain your original dated proof-of-purchase in case warranty service is needed. We recommend registering your product so we can send you information about future updates or service issues that may arise. |
| Release Date | 2020-06-19T00:00:01Z |
| Price history for Nikon NIKKOR Z 24-200mm VR | Compact all-in-one telephoto zoom lens with image stabilization for Z series mirrorless cameras | Nikon USA Model | |
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Canon EOS R8 Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera w/RF24-50mm F4.5-6.3 is STM Lens, 24.2 MP, 4K Video, DIGIC X Image Processor, Subject Detection & Tracking, Compact...
Features
| Part Number | 5803C012 |
| Warranty | 90 days limited warranty |
| Color | Black |
| Price history for Canon EOS R8 Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera w/RF24-50mm F4.5-6.3 is STM Lens, 24.2 MP, 4K Video, DIGIC X Image Processor, Subject Detection & Tracking, Compact (Renewed) Black | |
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Q&A:
What are the best sub 500 mirrorless cameras?
1. Sony Alpha a6000 – a popular choice with excellent image quality and fast autofocus.
Which mirrorless camera under 500 is good for beginners?
2. Canon EOS M100 – a compact and user-friendly camera with good image quality.
Is there a sub 500 mirrorless camera suitable for travel photography?
3. Fujifilm X-A7 – a lightweight camera with a versatile lens system, great for travel photography.
What about a budget-friendly mirrorless camera with 4K video recording?
4. Panasonic Lumix GX85 – a compact camera with 4K video capabilities and in-body image stabilization.
Are there any sub 500 mirrorless cameras with weather-sealing?
5. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III – a weather-sealed camera with a good range of features for its price.
