The 8 Best Sony Digital Mirrorless Cameras

Exploring the best of Sony's innovative camera technology for creators. Here's a guide to the top picks for all varietes of photographers and filmmakers.

Sony A7S III Review - A full frontal view of the camera.

Sony is a juggernaut in the camera industry, renowned for its cutting-edge technology and its cameras' popularity among novice and seasoned photographers worldwide. The brand's diverse offerings encompass a range of camera bodies, each tailored to meet the needs of a broad spectrum of creators. Below, you'll find a curated selection of our favorite camera bodies from Sony's arsenal, designed to facilitate a seamless transition for those seeking to switch to Sony or elevate their photography or videography game. Lo and behold, here are our top picks.

At A Glanceā€¦

  1. Sony FX3 - The New(er) Netflix-Approved Top Choice for Every Filmmaker
  2. Sony A7 IV - The Go-To Cult Classic for Filmmakers & Hybrid Shooters
  3. Sony A7C II - The Most Compact Choice for Hybrid Shooters
  4. Sony A7R V - The Top, More Affordable Contender for Serious Photographers
  5. Sony Alpha 1 - The Best For Mega Professional Photographers
  6. Sony A6400 - The Beloved Beginner's Choice for Photographers
  7. Sony A7S III - The Elevated Yet Accessible Choice for Filmmakers 
  8. Sony ZV-1 - The Best Choice for Vloggers & Content Creators

To Know:

If you're a creative who's passionate about capturing cinematic magic, the Sony FX3 Cinema Line camera is your dream come true. This incredible piece of tech not only helps bring your visions to life but also boasts reliable performance and effortless operation, making it the perfect companion for today's content creators. The camera's compact and lightweight design means you can take it anywhere without worrying about it weighing you down. Plus, with its full-frame image sensor and innovative light-gathering techniques, you can rest assured that you'll be able to snap breathtaking photos even in low light conditions. And let's not forget about the standard ISO sensitivity of 80-102400 for movies that can be expanded up to a whopping 409600. This means you can capture stunning visuals in any lighting situation, giving your creative vision the power it needs to shine.

What We Love:

FULL-FRAME IMAGE CAPTURE, EVEN IN DIM LIGHT

With the FX3, you don't need to worry about missing out on capturing stunning visuals just because the lighting isn't perfect. The camera's full-frame image sensor is coupled with innovative light-gathering techniques, making it possible to snap clear and usable images even in low light conditions. And if that wasn't impressive enough, the standard ISO sensitivity of 80-102400 for movies can be expanded all the way up to an astounding 409600.

4K 120FPS WITH EVERY FRAME IN FOCUS

The FX3 is a powerhouse for capturing detailed 4K imagery, even at high frame rates. This is all thanks to the camera's high-precision AF and impressive high-speed readout capabilities. And if you want to create stunning motion sequences, the Slow and Quick (S&Q) mode gives you full control over the shooting frame rate. This means you can experiment with beautiful slow-motion footage at up to 5 times slower than normal speed, with a 24p output.

The Details:

Brand: Sony

Product Type: Compact Cinema Camera for Filmmakers

Best For: Beginner to advanced filmmakers who want to make short films, YouTube videos, or short-form internet videos. Also Netflix-approved, meaning it's the top choice for higher-end feature films.

Sony FX3 Full frame Cinema Line camera thumbnail

Sony

FX3 Full-Frame Cinema Camera Body

The new YouTuber dream camera could be the Sony FX3 Cinema Line camera. Compact and lightweight, easy to carry and handle is cinema power in your hand.

Buy for $3,898.00

To Know:

Sony A7IV is an incredibly versatile hybrid camera for filmmakers and photographers alike. It offers amazing video quality (up to 4K 60p 10-bit 4:2:2 w/ full pixel readout in all rec. formats) while also offering 33MP for photos. This hybrid camera has features that will take your photography and videography to the next level, including advanced autofocus, enhanced operability, and improved workflow capability. And if you care about the environment, you'll be pleased to know that Alpha 7 IV was developed with sustainability in mind. Sony has used their original recycled plastic SORPLASā„¢ for the camera body and packaging, reducing the amount of plastic used in the product. So not only can you capture stunning visuals with this camera, but you can feel good about your choice knowing that you're supporting a more sustainable future.

What We Love:

All-Day Shooting w/ Impressive Noise Reduction

You can capture stunning images without worrying about noise levels, thanks to the impressively low noise levels achieved throughout the standard range of ISO 100-51200 (which can be expanded to ISO 50-204800 for stills and ISO 100-102400 for movies). Whether shooting in low light or trying to capture the tiniest details, the BIONZ XR engine ensures that your images are crisp, clear, and stunningly detailed.

SUPER Fast

The system combines phase-detection AF and contrast-detection AF and has evolved even further to achieve greater speed, accuracy, and tracking performance. Plus, with Sony's 4D FOCUS, you can achieve pinpoint focus no matter what you're shooting. The system uses a wide, dense AF area that covers roughly 94% of the image area for both stills and movies and boasts an impressive 7596 phase-detection AF points.

The Details:

Brand: Sony

Product Type: Mirrorless Digital Camera Body

Best For: Filmmakers wanting classic colors and true-to-life tones for their intuitive video device.

Moment Sony ILCE7 M4 Alpha a7 IV Mirrorless Digital Camera Body Only Thumbnail

Sony

Alpha a7 IV Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera

Are you a feature-demanding Sony shooter? Alpha a7 IV has a new processor, smooth eye-tracking AF, customizable dials, 15+ stops of dynamic range, and more...

Buy for $2,498.00

To Know:

With the dawn of the digital age, the line between photography and videography continues to blur. Enter the Sony A7C II: Sony's beacon of progress in the hybrid creator's universe. Succeeding the original A7C, launched three years prior, this latest masterpiece embodies evolution. Replete with the same formidable full-frame 33MP sensor found in the A7IV, the A7C II promises incredible clarity. For videography enthusiasts, the A7C II is not just another camera. With the capability to shoot 10-bit 422 at 4K 60fps in APS-C mode and 4K 30fps in full-frame mode, every second recorded is a cinematic experience waiting to unfold. With the addition of the active stabilization mode, even the most challenging shots are transformed into smooth cinematic sequences, offering more stability than standard IS. The "C" in A7C II resonates with "compact,ā€ making it a delight for creators who are constantly on the move. While the A7IV may be celebrated for its small stature, the A7C II takes compactness to the next level without compromising power.

What We Love:

Fast, Reliable Sensor

Advanced 33MP Back-Illuminated 35mm Full-frame Image Sensor.

Super Compact

Lightweight but doesn't comprise quality or power storage.

Form Fitted for Video

With the capability to shoot 10-bit 422 at 4K 60fps in APS-C mode and 4K 30fps in full-frame mode.

Moment Sony A7 CII Thumbnail

Sony

Alpha a7C II Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera - Body Only and Kits

Building off the sleek profile and full-frame sensor combination of its first-generation predecessor, the black Sony a7C II offers improved resolution, autof...

Buy for $2,199.99

To Know:

An exceptional new camera everyone raves about. This powerful camera combines next-generation AF, 61MP image quality, stunning 8K24p/4K60p movie capabilities, advanced connectivity, and workflow features. Whether you're a professional photographer or someone who loves capturing stunning visuals, the Sony Alpha 7R V has got you covered. With its advanced autofocus system, you can trust that your shots will always be perfectly in focus. And with the incredible 61MP image quality, you'll be able to capture stunning details and textures like never before.

What We Love:

Lovely Sensor and Engine

61.0 MP full-frame back-illuminated Exmor Rā„¢ CMOS sensor

Crazy AI System

AI subject recognition has been expanded to include a number of new subject types, including vehicles and insects.

Fast Auto Focus

Deep learning technology supports powerful Real-time Recognition AF as well as more reliable Real-time Tracking which is supported by higher Fast Hybrid AF performance over a wider area.

The Details:

Brand: Sony

Product Type: Full-Frame Mirrorless

Best For: Top of the line photography camera, 61 megapixel stills designed for professional photographers who want super high resolution photos.

Moment Sony ILCE 7 RM5 Alpha 7 R V Full Fraame Mirrorless Camera Body thumbnail

Sony

Alpha 7R V Full Frame Mirrorless Camera Body

Looking for the best Sony has to offer? The Sony Alpha 7R V combines ļ»ænext-generation AF, 61MP image quality, and spectacular 8K24p/4K60p video recording.

Buy for $3,899.00

To Know:

This camera is the most technologically advanced and innovative model Sony has ever released. With a 50.1-megapixel full-frame stacked Exmor RSā„¢ image sensor, you'll effortlessly capture stunning, high-resolution images. Plus, you'll never miss a moment with up to 30 fps continuous shooting and up to 120 AF/AE calculations per second. And if you're a fan of video, the Alpha 1 won't disappoint. It can shoot 8k 30p 10-bit 4:2:0 video, ensuring your footage is as stunning as your photos.

What We Love:

Extreme Quality

50.1MP Full-frame Exmor RS stacked CMOS image sensor with integral memory. With its Super 35 mode, the camera acquires approximately 2.3x the amount of data required for QFHD 4K through full-frame readout with no pixel binning.

Shutter Flash

FOr the first time ever, it allows for electronic shutter flash sync. This is thanks to the high readout speed from the stacked CMOS sensor, which enables all the advantages of electronic shutter shooting to remain available for flash photography.

The Details:

Brand: Sony

Product Type: Mirrorless Camera

Best For: Mega photography professionals needing a quality camera to keep up with them.

Moment Sony ILCE 1 B Alpha 1 Full frame Mirrorless Camera thumbnail

Sony

Alpha 1 Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera Body

Never go for second best! The Alpha a1 Mirrorless Digital Camera is the most technologically advanced and innovative camera that Sony has ever released

Buy for $6,498.00

To Know:

The APS-C camera from Sony is perfect for those who want advanced features without sacrificing on size or portability. With a powerful 24.2 MP ExmorĀ® CMOS sensor, this camera delivers incredible image quality that will blow you away. And with the world's fastest autofocus (AF) speed at just 0.02 seconds, you'll never miss a shot again. Plus, with advanced Real-time Eye-AF and Real-time object Tracking AF, you can rest assured that your subject will always be in sharp focus. With 425-phase/425-contrast-detection AF points spread over 84% of the sensor, you can be confident that your photos will always be stunning. The camera also boasts up to 11fps continuous shooting with continuous autofocus and auto-exposure, perfect for capturing fast-paced action shots. And if you're a fan of video, you'll be pleased to know that the camera can shoot in 4K HDR video2. With a 180-degree tiltable touchscreen LCD and Wi-FiĀ®, you can easily transfer files and control the camera remotely.

What We Love:

Object Tracking

Worldā€™s fastest AF at 0.02 sec. w/ Real-time AF & object tracking.

Great For Video Especially

4K movie w/ 2.4x oversampling, full pixel readout, no pixel binning.

Wide Sensor

Wide 425-phase/425-contrast-detection AF points over 84% of sensor

The Details:

Brand: Sony

Product Type: Mirrorless Camera Body

Best For: Best entry-level Sony, great for vlogging (flip up screen), also takes great high quality images in a small compact form factor.

Moment Sony ILCE6400 B Alpha a6400 Mirrorless Digital Camera thumbnail

Sony

Alpha a6400 APS-C Mirrorless Camera

One of the most beloved mirrorless digital cameras out there! The Sony Alpha a6400 has the Worldā€™s fastest autofocus, advanced APS-C, 24.2 MP CMOS sensor

Buy for $749.99

To Know:

This camera is a complete redesign of the S series system, with everything from the increased sensitivity to the 12.1MP Exmor R BSI CMOS sensor being new and improved. With the updated BIONZ XR image processor, you'll enjoy faster performance, improved noise reduction, and a wider dynamic range, ensuring that every shot is of the highest quality possible. Plus, your videos will look stunning and cinematic with UHD 4K 120p video recording and internal 10-bit 4:2:2 color sampling.

What We Love:

Crazy Great Dynamic Range

With 15 stops of dynamic range, you can fully clamp down any scene with precise clarity.

A Flip-Out Screen

An excellent camera that has a flip-out screen for easy recording and vlogging sequences.

Incredible Picture

Incredible 4k 16-bit raw output over HDMI with no recording limits for ultra-amazing-looking footage.

The Details:

Brand: Sony

Product Type: Mirrorless Camera

Best For: Filmmakers wanting that extra step of professionalism with a taste for quality tech. And vloggers, Sonyā€™s got a thing for vloggers.

Moment sony alphaa7s III Thumbnail

Sony

Alpha a7S III Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera Body

You demand performance from your camera? The Sony Alpha a7S III delivers with a complete redesign of the S series system with 4K 120 FPS and high dynamic range

Buy for $3,498.00

To Know:

It may be small, but it's packed with amazing features and uncompromising imaging technology that works better than an iPhone With Sony's advanced Realtime Eye-AF 3 and Real-time AF tracking, you can trust that your shots will always be perfectly in focus. And with the simplified Background Defocus function, you can create stunning bokeh that will take your photos and videos to the next level. Plus, with features like Face Priority AE (auto exposure) and the Product Showcase setting made specifically with content creators in mind, this camera has everything you need to create amazing content with ease. Whether you're just starting out in photography or you're a seasoned pro, this camera is sure to exceed your expectations and make really awesome content for any social platform.

What We Love:

Made For Vloggers

With its easy-to-use design and intuitive controls, you can start creating amazing content immediately. Whether you're a vlogger, a social media influencer, or someone who loves capturing beautiful moments, the ZV-1 is the perfect choice for you.

Natural Skin Tones

It's downright gorgeous for everyday use and for everybody and every skin tone.

Fast AF

One of Sony's coolest features of the ZV-1 camera is its Fast Hybrid AF system. This advanced technology lets you quickly and easily switch focus from a face to the background, giving your videos a more stylistic and watchable feel.

The Details:

Brand: Sony

Camera Type: Mirrorless Video Camera

Best For: Beginner filmmakers wanting a camera for YouTube, or anyone wanting something better than their iPhone for everyday video stills.

Moment Song DCZV1 B ZV 1 Digital Camera thumbnail

Sony

ZV-1 Digital Camera

In search of a pocket-sized camera full of unique features? The Sony ZV-1 is perfect for on the go content creators, vloggers to easily create and share

Buy for $748.00

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