Best Cameras for 2025: A Comprehensive Guide

Finding the best camera isn’t just about selecting the most expensive model; it’s about choosing the one that fits how, where, and what you shoot. For some, that means a lightweight mirrorless camera that delivers DSLR-level quality without the bulk. For others, it might be a compact gimbal camera built for smooth handheld footage, or a rugged action cam that can withstand mountain trails, underwater dives, or chaotic travel days. The world of cameras is incredibly diverse, and today’s gear can do much more than just capture high-resolution photos.

We’ve tested a wide range of options to help you choose the best camera for your needs and budget. Content creators might gravitate toward vlogging-friendly setups with flip-out screens, strong autofocus, and solid 4K video capabilities. If you’re in search of a mid-range all-rounder, there are models that strike a great balance between performance and portability. For those pursuing the best of the best, premium cameras with full-frame sensors and interchangeable lenses offer unparalleled control and image quality. From mirrorless marvels to adventure-ready action cams, this guide breaks down the top picks to elevate your photography or videography.

Best Cameras for 2025

Best Mirrorless Cameras

Mirrorless cameras represent the largest category in terms of available models, making it the best choice if you’re looking for advanced features. Canon and Nikon have recently announced the discontinuation of new DSLR development, as most advantages of that category have diminished, as detailed in a video. The primary selling feature of a mirrorless camera is the ability to change lenses based on the type of shooting you intend to do.

Best Action Camera or Gimbal Camera

The most important features to consider in an action cam are image quality, stabilization, and battery life. GoPro has consistently outperformed its rivals in these areas, but DJI has captured a significant share of the market with the Osmo Pocket 3 gimbal camera.

Best Compact Camera

This category has seen a decline in the number of available models compared to a few years ago, with many options being older as manufacturers shift their focus to mirrorless models. However, compact cameras still hold significant value. They provide a noticeable step up in quality compared to smartphones, and many people prefer taking a compact camera while traveling or attending events rather than dealing with the bulk of a DSLR or mirrorless camera.

Compact cameras typically feature type 1-inch sensors, although a few models offer larger options, particularly Fujifilm’s XF-100V. Another popular model, Sony’s XV-1, is primarily aimed at content creators looking to enhance their setups. Key desirable qualities include image quality, a fast lens, a relatively long zoom, a flip-out display, good battery life, a high-quality electronic viewfinder (EVF), decent video capabilities, and good portability.

What to Consider Before Choosing a Camera

While smartphones continue to improve in video and photo quality each year, dedicated cameras still maintain an edge in several aspects. The larger sensors in mirrorless cameras allow for greater light capture, and there is a wide selection of lenses with superior optics. Dedicated cameras also excel in speed for capturing fast-moving subjects, offer enhanced video capabilities for content creators, and produce more professional results.

Sensor Size

Several key factors should be considered to maximize your camera’s potential. The first is sensor size: generally, the larger the sensor, the better (and usually more expensive) the camera.

Full-frame sensors are the largest available for mainstream cameras, found in models like the new Panasonic S9, the Nikon Z III, and the Canon EOS R5 II. With dimensions equivalent to 35mm film (36 x 24mm), full-frame sensors provide the best performance in terms of image quality, low-light capability, and depth of field. However, they are also quite expensive and can be challenging to use. While bokeh appears stunning at an aperture of f/1.4, the depth of field can be so narrow that only a small part of the subject is in focus, complicating video shooting.

The next size category is APS-C (approximately 23.5 x 15.6mm for most models and 22.2 x 14.8mm for Canon), available in Fujifilm’s X Series lineup, the Canon R10, the Sony ZV-E10 II, and the Nikon Z50. APS-C sensors are more affordable than full-frame options, both for the camera body and lenses, while still offering many advantages such as decent bokeh, high ISO performance for low-light shooting, and relatively high resolution. With a sensor size similar to that of movie cameras, APS-C is ideal for video shooting and is easier to maintain focus compared to full-frame cameras.

Micro Four Thirds (17.3 x 13mm), a format shared by Panasonic and Olympus, is the next step down in sensor size. While it offers less bokeh and light-gathering capability than APS-C and full-frame sensors, it allows for smaller and lighter cameras and lenses. For video, it is still possible to achieve reasonably tight depth of field with good prime lenses, while focus remains easier to control.

The other common sensor size is Type 1 (1 inch), which is actually smaller than one inch at 12.7 x 9.5mm. This size is primarily used in compact models like Sony’s ZV-1 vlogging camera. Finally, action cameras such as the GoPro Hero 11 and DJI’s Osmo 3 feature even smaller sensors (1/1.9 and 1/1.7 inches, respectively).

Autofocus

For photographers, autofocus (AF) speed and accuracy are crucial factors. Most modern mirrorless cameras utilize hybrid phase-detect AF systems that enable rapid focusing and fast burst speeds. Many also incorporate AI features such as eye-detect AF for both people and animals, which locks onto the subject’s eyes, face, or body to maintain focus. However, some models are faster and more responsive than others.

Displays

The electronic viewfinder (EVF) and rear display are also essential components. The best models feature sharp and bright EVFs that assist in judging a shot before capturing it. For street photography, having a bright and sharp rear display is advantageous, as it allows for easy visibility of subjects and focus checking in various lighting conditions. Additionally, a screen that flips out rather than merely tilting can be beneficial.

Lenses

While DSLRs and mirrorless cameras allow for lens interchangeability, compact cameras are limited to their built-in lenses. Although this is advantageous for portability, it means sacrificing certain capabilities. For example, the Fujifilm X100V features a fast but fixed 35mm-equivalent f/2.0 lens with no zoom, while the Sony RX100 V offers a 24-70mm zoom but is slower at the telephoto end (f/2.8) and less sharp than a fixed focal (prime) lens.

When selecting a lens for a mirrorless camera, consider the focal or zoom length along with the minimum aperture. Smaller numbers, such as f/1.4 for a prime lens or f/2.8 for a zoom, are preferable, as they allow for shooting in darker environments and maximizing background blur to isolate subjects. However, these lenses tend to be more complex and, consequently, more expensive.

Video Recording

When evaluating video capabilities, several additional factors come into play. Some cameras utilize pixel binning or line skipping for video recording, which can diminish sharpness. Higher-quality cameras typically read out the entire sensor and then downsample to enhance video sharpness (camera manufacturers often do not disclose whether video is pixel binned but will indicate if it is downsampled). Another critical factor is sensor speed, as slower sensors may exhibit more rolling shutter effects, resulting in a “jello” effect that distorts video.

Moreover, consider battery life, handling, and feel. How long can you shoot before the camera overheats or shuts down? Does it support 10-bit HDR video? Are there microphone and/or headphone jacks available? (Having both is preferable for recording interviews.) How effective is the video autofocus? All these elements contribute to your decision-making process.

This article originally appeared on Engadget at [[LINK_1]].