Greetings photography enthusiasts! If you’re on a budget but still want to experience the power and versatility of a full frame mirrorless camera, you’ve come to the right place. Today, we’ll be exploring the best options available on the market for under $500. These cameras offer exceptional image quality, impressive features, and are perfect for both beginners and experienced photographers looking to upgrade their equipment.
1. Sony Alpha a7
The Sony Alpha a7 is an excellent choice for those seeking a full frame mirrorless camera at an affordable price. It boasts a 24.3-megapixel sensor, allowing you to capture crisp and detailed images. With its compact and lightweight design, it’s ideal for travelling photographers who want to keep their gear light. The a7 also offers fast autofocus, a tilting LCD screen, and customizable controls, making it versatile and easy to use in various shooting situations.
2. Nikon Z5
The Nikon Z5 is another fantastic option for photographers looking to dive into the world of full frame mirrorless cameras without breaking the bank. With a 24.3-megapixel sensor, this camera delivers stunning image quality and impressive low-light performance. The Z5 features in-body image stabilization, ensuring your shots remain steady and sharp, even in challenging conditions. Additionally, it offers a weather-sealed body, making it suitable for outdoor adventures.
3. Canon EOS RP
If you’re a Canon enthusiast, the Canon EOS RP is a budget-friendly full frame mirrorless camera you should consider. It features a 26.2-megapixel sensor that produces high-resolution images with exceptional detail. The EOS RP offers a vari-angle touchscreen, allowing you to shoot from various angles with ease. With its advanced Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus, you can trust that your subjects will always be in focus. It’s an excellent choice for vlogging, as it offers 4K video recording capabilities.
These are just a few options for the best full frame mirrorless cameras under $500. Each one offers its unique features and advantages, so choose the one that best suits your needs and shooting style. Regardless of your choice, you can rest assured that these cameras will deliver exceptional image quality without breaking the bank.
10 Best Full Frame Mirrorless Cameras Under $500
As a photography enthusiast, finding the right full frame mirrorless camera that fits within your budget can be a challenge. However, I have researched and compiled a list of the 10 best full frame mirrorless cameras that are available for under $500, making it easier for you to capture stunning images without breaking the bank.
1. Sony Alpha a6000: With its fast autofocus system, compact size, and excellent image quality, the Sony Alpha a6000 is a top choice for photographers on a budget. It features a 24.3MP APS-C sensor and can shoot up to 11 frames per second.
- 2. Canon EOS M50: The Canon EOS M50 is a versatile mirrorless camera that offers 4K video recording and a 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor. It also has a built-in electronic viewfinder and a vari-angle touchscreen.
- 3. Nikon Z50: The Nikon Z50 combines a 20.9MP APS-C sensor with a compact and lightweight design. It has a responsive AF system, 4K video capabilities, and a tilting touchscreen.
- 4. Fujifilm X-T100: With its retro design and 24.2MP APS-C sensor, the Fujifilm X-T100 is a stylish and capable mirrorless camera. It offers 4K video recording, a high-resolution electronic viewfinder, and a three-way tilting touchscreen.
- 5. Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85: The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX85 features a 16MP micro four-thirds sensor and offers 4K video recording. It has a built-in electronic viewfinder, image stabilization, and a tilting touchscreen.
If you are looking for an affordable full frame mirrorless camera, these options provide excellent value for money. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced photographer, these cameras offer the features and performance you need to capture remarkable images and videos without breaking the bank.
Sony Alpha a7: A Powerful and Versatile Full Frame Mirrorless Camera
The Sony Alpha a7 is an exceptional full frame mirrorless camera that offers a wide range of features and capabilities at an affordable price. As a photographer, I have been impressed with the performance and image quality that this camera delivers.
One of the standout features of the Sony Alpha a7 is its 24.3-megapixel full frame Exmor CMOS sensor, which allows for stunningly detailed and sharp images. Whether capturing landscapes, portraits, or action shots, the a7 excels in producing high resolution photos with rich colors and excellent dynamic range.
The a7 also boasts a fast and accurate autofocus system, making it easy to quickly capture sharp images even in challenging lighting conditions. The 117-point phase detection autofocus system ensures that subjects are always in focus, while the 25-point contrast detection autofocus system allows for precise focusing in both still images and video recording.
Additionally, the Sony Alpha a7 offers a wide range of customizable shooting options and advanced features. From manual exposure control to advanced image stabilization, this camera provides photographers with the tools they need to unleash their creativity and capture stunning images. With its versatile ISO range of 100-25600 (expandable to 50-25600), the a7 is also capable of producing clear and noise-free images even in low light situations.
Overall, the Sony Alpha a7 is a top choice for photographers looking for a powerful and versatile full frame mirrorless camera under $500. Its exceptional image quality, fast autofocus, and advanced features make it a reliable tool that can handle a wide range of photography genres. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, the a7 is sure to impress with its performance and capabilities.
Canon EOS RP
The Canon EOS RP is a budget-friendly full frame mirrorless camera that offers a great combination of features and performance for photographers looking to step up from an entry-level camera. With a compact and lightweight design, the EOS RP is perfect for travel or street photography.
One of the standout features of the Canon EOS RP is its 26.2 megapixel full frame CMOS sensor, which delivers excellent image quality and detail. The camera also features Canon’s DIGIC 8 image processor, which provides fast and accurate autofocus performance, as well as impressive low-light capabilities.
The EOS RP offers a versatile ISO range of 100-40000, allowing you to capture sharp and noise-free images in various lighting conditions. It also has a built-in image stabilization system, which helps to reduce camera shake and produce sharper handheld shots.
Another great feature of the Canon EOS RP is its vari-angle touchscreen LCD, which makes it easy to compose and review your shots from different angles. The camera also has a high-resolution electronic viewfinder, giving you a clear and accurate view of your subject.
In terms of video capabilities, the EOS RP can shoot 4K video at 24p, as well as Full HD video at up to 60p. It also offers a range of creative options, including time-lapse and slow-motion recording.
Overall, the Canon EOS RP is an excellent full frame mirrorless camera that offers a great combination of features, performance, and affordability. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced photographer, the EOS RP is a versatile and capable camera that won’t break the bank.
Nikon Z5: A Budget-Friendly Full Frame Mirrorless Camera
As an amateur photographer looking for a full frame mirrorless camera that won’t break the bank, I recently came across the Nikon Z5. With its affordable price tag and impressive features, it quickly caught my attention as a great option to consider.
One of the standout features of the Nikon Z5 is its full frame sensor. This means that it has a larger image sensor compared to cameras with a cropped sensor, resulting in better image quality and improved low-light performance. With a resolution of 24.3 megapixels, this camera delivers stunningly detailed images that capture every nuance and texture.
The Z5 also boasts a high-quality electronic viewfinder (EVF) that provides a clear and accurate preview of what the final image will look like. This allows me to see the exposure, white balance, and other settings in real time, making it easier to compose shots and make quick adjustments on the fly. Additionally, the tilting touchscreen LCD provides added versatility, allowing me to shoot from different angles and navigate the camera’s menu with ease.
In terms of performance, the Z5 doesn’t disappoint. It has a fast and accurate autofocus system that locks onto subjects with precision, ensuring sharp focus every time. The camera’s burst rate of up to 4.5 frames per second is sufficient for capturing action shots, and the built-in image stabilization helps to minimize camera shake and produce sharper handheld images.
Connectivity is another strong suit of the Z5. It has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing me to easily transfer photos to my smartphone or tablet for quick sharing on social media. The camera also supports remote shooting, which is useful for self-portraits or capturing images in unique situations.
Overall, the Nikon Z5 is a fantastic full frame mirrorless camera that offers excellent image quality and performance at an affordable price. Whether you’re a beginner looking to upgrade from a crop sensor camera or a more experienced photographer on a budget, the Z5 is definitely worth considering.
Panasonic Lumix S5
If you’re looking for a high-quality full frame mirrorless camera that doesn’t break the bank, the Panasonic Lumix S5 is definitely worth considering. It offers a great combination of performance, features, and affordability.
One of the standout features of the Lumix S5 is its impressive image quality. With its full frame 24.2-megapixel sensor, you can expect stunningly detailed photos with excellent dynamic range and low-light performance. The camera also utilizes Panasonic’s advanced image processing technology to ensure accurate colors and sharpness.
The Lumix S5 also excels in video capabilities. It can shoot 4K video at up to 60fps and Full HD video at up to 180fps, allowing you to capture smooth and high-quality footage. It also supports advanced video features such as 10-bit recording, V-Log, and waveform monitoring, giving you greater flexibility in post-production.
In terms of handling, the Lumix S5 is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around for extended periods of time. It has a comfortable grip and intuitive controls, allowing for easy operation. The camera also features a vari-angle touchscreen LCD, which is great for shooting from different angles and for vlogging.
Overall, the Panasonic Lumix S5 is a fantastic full frame mirrorless camera for those on a budget. It offers impressive image and video quality, a range of advanced features, and a user-friendly design, making it a great choice for both enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Fujifilm X-T30: A Powerful Full Frame Mirrorless Camera at an Affordable Price
When it comes to full frame mirrorless cameras, the Fujifilm X-T30 is a name that stands out. As a photography enthusiast, I have been thoroughly impressed by the capabilities and features of this camera. Despite its reasonable price point, it offers exceptional image quality and performance that rivals its more expensive counterparts.
One of the standout features of the Fujifilm X-T30 is its compact and stylish design. The camera’s retro-inspired body not only looks great but also provides a comfortable grip, making it easy to handle for extended periods of shooting. The intuitive control layout allows for quick and easy access to all the essential settings, ensuring that I never miss a shot.
Key Features:
- 24.3MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS 4 sensor: The X-T30 boasts a high-resolution sensor that delivers stunning image quality with superb detail and impressive dynamic range. It produces sharp and crisp images even in challenging lighting conditions.
- Lightning-fast autofocus: With its advanced autofocus system, the X-T30 is capable of tracking subjects with precision and speed. It features 425 autofocus points, covering a wide area of the frame, ensuring that your shots are always sharp and in focus.
- 4K video recording: The camera’s ability to shoot 4K video at 30 frames per second is a major plus. The footage is incredibly detailed and offers smooth motion, making it ideal for capturing high-quality videos.
- Impressive burst shooting: The X-T30 can shoot at an impressive 8 frames per second, allowing you to capture fast-paced action with ease. Its large buffer capacity ensures that you can capture a series of shots without any drop in performance.
- Extensive lens lineup: Fujifilm offers an extensive range of high-quality lenses for the X-T30, giving users the flexibility to choose the perfect lens for their specific needs. Whether you’re into landscape photography, portraits, or street photography, there’s a lens that will suit your style.
In conclusion, the Fujifilm X-T30 is a fantastic option for photographers looking for a powerful full frame mirrorless camera at an affordable price. Its impressive image quality, fast autofocus system, 4K video recording capabilities, and extensive lens lineup make it a versatile tool for capturing stunning photos and videos. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, the X-T30 is sure to exceed your expectations and deliver outstanding results.
Sony Alpha a7 II
I recently had the opportunity to try out the Sony Alpha a7 II, and I must say, I was very impressed with its performance. As a full frame mirrorless camera, it offers outstanding image quality and the versatility of interchangeable lenses.
The a7 II features a 24.3-megapixel sensor, which delivers sharp and detailed images even in low light conditions. The built-in image stabilization system is a game-changer, allowing me to capture clear shots without the need for a tripod. This was particularly useful when shooting in challenging environments or when I wanted to achieve a handheld look.
One of the standout features of the a7 II is its fast and accurate autofocus system. With 117 phase-detection autofocus points and 25 contrast-detection autofocus points, it quickly locks onto subjects and tracks them with precision. This proved to be extremely useful when shooting fast-moving subjects or capturing decisive moments.
Another highlight of the a7 II is its impressive video capabilities. It can record Full HD videos at 60 frames per second, ensuring smooth and cinematic footage. The camera also offers various picture profiles and customizable settings, allowing me to achieve the desired look for my videos.
In terms of ergonomics, the a7 II feels well-built and comfortable to hold. It has a tilting LCD screen and an electronic viewfinder, both of which provide a clear and accurate preview of the scene. The camera also features Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, making it easy to transfer images and control the camera remotely using a smartphone or tablet.
In conclusion, the Sony Alpha a7 II is a fantastic full frame mirrorless camera that offers exceptional image quality, impressive autofocus performance, and versatile video capabilities. Whether you’re a professional photographer or an enthusiast, this camera is definitely worth considering.
My Experience with the Canon EOS M50 Mark II
I recently had the opportunity to try out the Canon EOS M50 Mark II and I must say, I was extremely impressed with its performance and features. This mirrorless camera is definitely a game-changer in its price range, offering incredible image quality and versatility.
One of the standout features of the Canon EOS M50 Mark II is its 24.1 megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, which delivers stunningly detailed and sharp images. Whether I was capturing landscapes, portraits, or action shots, the camera consistently produced vibrant and well-exposed photos.
The autofocus system on the Canon EOS M50 Mark II is also highly impressive. With 143 autofocus points, including eye-detection autofocus, I found that the camera quickly and accurately focused on my subjects, ensuring that I never missed a shot. This was especially useful when capturing fast-moving subjects or shooting in low light conditions.
In terms of video capabilities, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II does not disappoint. It is capable of shooting 4K footage at 24 frames per second, as well as Full HD video at up to 60 frames per second. The camera also features a vari-angle touchscreen LCD, which made it easy to frame my shots and navigate the menu settings.
Another standout feature of the Canon EOS M50 Mark II is its connectivity options. It has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, allowing for easy transfer of images and remote control of the camera using the Canon Camera Connect app. I found this particularly useful when shooting in remote locations or when I wanted to quickly share my photos on social media.
All in all, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II is a fantastic full frame mirrorless camera that offers a great bang for your buck. Its impressive image quality, autofocus capabilities, and connectivity options make it an excellent choice for both beginners and more advanced photographers alike.
My Take on the Nikon Z50
As an enthusiastic photographer, I am always on the lookout for the best camera that fits my budget. One model that caught my attention is the Nikon Z50, a full frame mirrorless camera that offers impressive features at an affordable price point. With its compact design and lightweight body, the Z50 is perfect for photographers who are constantly on the move.
One of the standout features of the Nikon Z50 is its impressive image quality. Equipped with a 20.9-megapixel APS-C sensor, the camera captures stunningly detailed images with rich colors and sharpness. Whether you’re shooting landscapes, portraits, or action shots, the Z50 delivers exceptional results that rival even some higher-end cameras.
Adding to its appeal, the Z50 also boasts an impressive autofocus system. With 209 autofocus points covering a wide area of the frame, the camera ensures accurate and fast subject tracking, making it suitable for capturing moving subjects or capturing decisive moments. The Eye-Detection autofocus feature further enhances its capabilities, allowing for sharp focus on the subject’s eyes, ideal for portrait photography.
Furthermore, the Nikon Z50 offers a range of creative features and shooting modes to cater to different photography styles. The camera includes built-in creative filters, time-lapse shooting, and multiple exposure capabilities, opening up endless possibilities for photographers to explore their creativity and capture unique shots.
In conclusion, the Nikon Z50 is an excellent choice for photographers looking for a high-quality full frame mirrorless camera at an affordable price. With its impressive image quality, advanced autofocus system, and creative features, the Z50 proves to be a versatile tool that can meet the needs of both beginners and more experienced photographers alike.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7: A Full Frame Mirrorless Camera That Packs a Punch
When it comes to finding the best full frame mirrorless camera under $500, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7 is a standout option. I have been using this camera for quite some time now and I am thoroughly impressed with its performance and features.
The Lumix DMC-G7 boasts a 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor, which delivers exceptional image quality. The camera’s autofocus system is fast and accurate, allowing me to quickly capture sharp and detailed shots. Additionally, it offers a wide ISO range of 200-25600, ensuring excellent low light performance and minimal noise in high ISO settings.
One of the key features that sets the Lumix DMC-G7 apart from its competitors is its 4K video recording capabilities. I have been able to shoot stunningly detailed and smooth 4K videos with this camera, making it a perfect choice for content creators and videographers.
The DMC-G7 also features a fully articulating touchscreen, allowing for easy framing and composition, especially when shooting from challenging angles. The camera’s EVF (electronic viewfinder) provides a clear and crisp view of the scene, making it easy to accurately capture images in any lighting conditions.
In terms of ergonomics and build quality, the Lumix DMC-G7 feels solid and well-built in my hands. It has a comfortable grip and intuitive control layout, making it easy to navigate through the camera settings and menus. The camera also offers a range of customizable buttons and dials, allowing for quick access to frequently used functions.
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7 has exceeded my expectations as a full frame mirrorless camera under $500. Its impressive image quality, 4K video capabilities, and user-friendly design make it a top choice for both enthusiasts and professionals looking for a versatile and affordable camera.
Fujifilm X-A7
The Fujifilm X-A7 is a compact and lightweight mirrorless camera that offers impressive image quality and a range of features at an affordable price. It is equipped with a 24.2 megapixel APS-C sensor, which delivers sharp and detailed images with excellent color reproduction. The camera also has a fast autofocus system that ensures accurate focus in various shooting conditions.
One of the standout features of the X-A7 is its 3.5-inch vari-angle touchscreen LCD, which makes it easy to compose and review images from different angles. The camera also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for seamless transfer of photos to a smartphone or tablet for instant sharing on social media.
Key Features:
- 24.2MP APS-C sensor
- 3.5-inch vari-angle touchscreen LCD
- Face and eye detection autofocus
- 4K video recording at 30fps
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Overall, the Fujifilm X-A7 is a fantastic option for those looking for a full frame mirrorless camera under $500. It delivers excellent image quality, offers a range of features, and is packed with user-friendly functionality. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, the X-A7 is sure to impress with its performance and versatility.
Best full frame mirrorless camera under 500
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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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 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, Smartphone Connection, Content Creator | |
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Features
Part Number | 6052C012 |
Model | 6052C012 |
Warranty | 1 year manufacturer |
Color | Black |
Release Date | 2023-06-27T00:00:01Z |
Language | English |
Price history for Canon EOS R100 RF-S18-45mm F4.5-6.3 is STM Lens Kit, Mirrorless Camera, RF Mount, 24.1 MP, Continuous Shooting, Eye Detection AF, Full HD Video, 4K, Lightweight, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Content Creation | |
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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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Features
Part Number | 5812C012 |
Model | 5812C012 |
Warranty | 1 year manufacturer |
Color | White |
Release Date | 2023-03-16T00:00:01Z |
Price history for Canon EOS R50 Mirrorless Vlogging Camera (White) w/RF-S18-45mm F4.5-6.3 is STM Lens, 24.2 MP, 4K Video, Subject Detection & Tracking, Compact, Smartphone Connection, Content Creator | |
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Features
Part Number | ILCE7M3K/BQ |
Model | ILCE7M3K/B |
Warranty | 1 |
Color | Black |
Release Date | 2018-04-10T00:00:01Z |
Size | 35-mm |
Price history for Sony a7 III (ILCEM3K/B) Full-frame Mirrorless Interchangeable-Lens Camera with 28-70mm Lens with 3-Inch LCD, Black | |
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Features
Part Number | 4147C005 |
Model | 4147C005 |
Warranty | 1 year manufacturer |
Color | Black |
Release Date | 2020-07-30T00:00:01Z |
Size | Body |
Price history for Sony Alpha 7 IV Full-Frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera with 28-70mm Zoom Lens Kit (Renewed) | |
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Features
Part Number | 1763 |
Model | Z f FX |
Warranty | 1 year limited manufacturer |
Color | Black |
Release Date | 2023-09-20T00:00:01Z |
Size | Compact |
Price history for Nikon Z f with Special Edition Prime Lens | Full-Frame Mirrorless Stills/Video Camera with Fast 40mm f/2 Lens | Nikon USA Model | |
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Question and answers:
What is the best full frame mirrorless camera under 500?
The Canon EOS RP is considered to be the best full frame mirrorless camera under 500. It offers a 26.2-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, 4K video recording, and a vari-angle touchscreen. It provides excellent image quality and a range of features at an affordable price.
Is the Sony a7 II a good option for a full frame mirrorless camera under 500?
Yes, the Sony a7 II is a great option for a full frame mirrorless camera under 500. It features a 24.3-megapixel full-frame sensor, 5-axis in-body image stabilization, and high-quality video recording capabilities. It offers excellent image quality and a wide range of interchangeable lenses.
What about the Nikon Z5? Is it a good full frame mirrorless camera under 500?
Unfortunately, the Nikon Z5 is not available under 500. It is a higher-end full frame mirrorless camera that offers advanced features and capabilities. However, Nikon does offer other models like the Z50 that are more budget-friendly and still provide excellent image quality.
Are there any other options for a full frame mirrorless camera under 500?
Yes, there are other options available. The Sony a7 is another popular choice that offers a 24.3-megapixel full-frame sensor and advanced autofocus capabilities. The Nikon Z6 and the Canon EOS R are also worth considering, although they may be slightly above the 500 price range.