Mirrorless cameras have carved out a powerful niche in the photography world, offering lightweight bodies, fast performance, and stunning image quality. For photographers and content creators on a tight budget, there’s good news—you don’t need to spend a fortune to get great results. Today, we’re diving into some of the best budget mirrorless cameras available for under $800.
TL;DR
If you’re looking for a mirrorless camera under $800, there are several fantastic options for beginners and hobbyists alike. Models from Canon, Sony, Olympus, and Fujifilm offer portability, strong performance, and features like interchangeable lenses and 4K video. Whether it’s for travel, vlogging, or your first steps into photography, you can find a quality option without breaking the bank. Here are some of the top cameras to consider in 2024.
Why Choose a Mirrorless Camera?
Mirrorless cameras blend DSLR-quality images with the convenience of compact digital cameras. They eliminate the mirror mechanism found in traditional DSLRs, making them lighter and typically faster. For beginners, travelers, or casual shooters, these cameras are ideal thanks to their:
- Lightweight and compact design
- Interchangeable lenses
- Advanced autofocus systems
- Electronic viewfinder and real-time preview
With that in mind, here are the best mirrorless cameras under $800 to consider in 2024.
1. Canon EOS M50 Mark II
The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is a favorite among vloggers and entry-level photographers. It’s user-friendly, compact, and delivers solid photo and video quality for the price.
- Sensor: 24.1MP APS-C CMOS
- Video: 4K at 24fps
- Autofocus: Dual Pixel AF, Eye Detection
- Screen: Vari-angle touchscreen
- Price: Around $699 with kit lens
This camera’s versatility makes it excellent for content creation, from YouTube vlogs to Instagram photography. One limitation is a heavy video crop in 4K, but it performs beautifully in 1080p, which is still more than sufficient for most casual creators.
2. Sony Alpha a6100
For those who want blazing-fast autofocus and superior tracking, the Sony a6100 punches far above its price point. Though released a few years ago, it remains one of the best values in Sony’s Alpha lineup.
- Sensor: 24.2MP APS-C CMOS
- Video: 4K up to 30fps
- Autofocus: Real-Time Eye AF and Tracking
- Screen: 180° flip-up touchscreen
- Price: $798 with 16–50mm kit lens
It’s excellent for action, pets, and street photography, thanks to Sony’s top-tier autofocus. The color science may not be everyone’s favorite, but the performance is hard to beat at this price.
3. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
If design, in-body image stabilization (IBIS), and portability matter most, look no further than the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV. This Micro Four Thirds camera is sleek and powerful, especially with longer lenses or low-light shots where camera shake is a risk.
- Sensor: 20.3MP Micro Four Thirds
- Video: 4K at 30fps
- IBIS: 5-axis in-body stabilization
- Screen: Flip-down touchscreen
- Price: About $699 with 14–42mm lens
While the smaller sensor means low-light performance is not on par with APS-C competitors, Olympus offsets this with smart features and excellent lens compatibility. It’s a terrific choice for travelers and lifestyle photographers.
4. Fujifilm X-T200
The Fujifilm X-T200 combines aesthetics with serious imaging chops. Known for their retro style and film simulation modes, Fujifilm cameras are a hit among creative photographers.
- Sensor: 24.2MP APS-C CMOS
- Video: 4K at 30fps with no crop
- Features: Large touchscreen, USB-C charging
- Lens System: XF mount (excellent glass)
- Price: Around $699 with 15–45mm kit lens
The X-T200 stands out with its bright, high-res flip-out screen and intuitive interface. It’s tailored for those looking to step up from smartphone photography without learning complex controls right away.
5. Nikon Z30
One of the latest additions to Nikon’s mirrorless lineup, the Nikon Z30 is explicitly designed for vloggers and video creators.
- Sensor: 20.9MP APS-C CMOS
- Video: 4K at 30fps
- Screen: Fully articulating LCD
- Audio: External mic jack
- Price: $796 with kit lens
Its grip and ergonomics are top-notch, and the menu system is cleanly arranged. For vloggers who don’t care about a viewfinder but prioritize video quality and user-friendly controls, the Z30 is a winner.
What to Consider Before Buying
Before you shell out $800 on a new mirrorless camera, think about how you plan to use it. Here are a few tips and considerations:
1. Sensor Size
APS-C sensors (found in most models listed here) are larger and perform better in low light than Micro Four Thirds. Choose a bigger sensor if you’re aiming for sharper backgrounds or better night shots.
2. Lens Ecosystem
Buying a camera body is just the beginning. Look into the price and availability of lenses in that brand’s ecosystem. For example, Sony and Fujifilm have robust APS-C lens lineups, while Canon’s EF-M mount is more limited.
3. Video Features
If you’re planning on filming, invest in a camera with:
- Uncropped 4K video
- External microphone input
- Flip-screen for self-recording
4. Battery Life and Connectivity
Battery life can vary widely between brands and models. Cameras with USB-C charging are convenient, especially for travel. Also, check for Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for quick sharing and remote control with a smartphone.
Conclusion
You don’t need to spend thousands to enjoy a fantastic camera experience. Whether you’re a beginner, an amateur seeking an upgrade, or an aspiring content creator, there’s a budget mirrorless camera under $800 that fits your needs. Each of these cameras offers something unique—from lightweight travel appeal to advanced video features.
Pick the one that aligns with your creative goals, and you’ll have a powerful tool to grow and explore your photography journey—without emptying your wallet.
