So You’re Eyeing Mirrorless and Compact System Cameras?

EDITOR’S CHOICE: Sony a7R II

The latest addition to Sony’s highly respected a7 series, the a7R II’s updates continue to elevate the a7R to the next level. A new BSI full-frame CMOS sensor provides a bump in megapixels from 36 to 42, among other benefits. The new model offers 5-axis in-camera image stabilization similar to that of the a7 II, along with a more durable shutter that cuts vibration by approximately 50 percent and is designed to last for about 500,000 actuations. Also of note is a more advanced and faster AF system, extended ISO up to 102400, and 4K video with clean HDMI output. For a closer look, check out my hands-on review in the November issue of Photo District News. You’ll understand why the a7R II is our editor’s choice.

Price: $3,200

Nikon 1 J5 

Part of Nikon’s petite interchange lens cameras, the Nikon 1 J5 is the first Nikon to shoot 4K video (albeit at only 15 fps). And thanks to the new EXPEED 5A image processor, this compact 20-megapixel camera is fast, capturing up to 20 full-resolution images per second—with AF. Although there’s no viewfinder, the camera features a new, 3-inch touchscreen LCD that flips up 180-degrees for selfies and group shots. Available in black, silver or white, this cute—but capable—little camera comes in a trio of different kits.

PRICES: STARTING AT $500 (ONE-LENS KIT) 

Samsung NX500

The NX500 may be smaller, lighter and less expensive than the flagship NX1 but Samsung’s engineers managed to squeeze a lot of technology into its compact 4.7 x 2.5 x 1.7-inch body including the same, 28-megapixel BSI APS-C sensor. And the NX500 shoots 4K video. While the smaller model lacks a viewfinder, its 3-inch Super AMOLED touchscreen LCD provides a good alternative. Available in black, white or brown, this camera is fast, with a responsive AF system and up to 9 fps burst mode. (It comes with a small flash and 16-50mm power zoom lens.)

PRICE: $800 (WITH 16-50MM LENS) 

Fuji X-T10 

Similar in many ways to the higher end X-T1, the new X-T10 offers a new and improved autofocus system that includes Zone and Wide/Tracking modes, with a larger 77-point area for capturing action shots. Like its more expensive sibling, the X-T10 utilizes a 16-megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS II sensor and can shoot at up to 8 fps in continuous mode. While it’s not weather-sealed like the X-T1, it offers a sturdy magnesium alloy construction and a handsome, classic design. If you have X-T1 envy but want to save a few hundred dollars to put toward one of Fujinon’s
X-mount lenses, check out the X-T10.

PRICE: $800 (BODY ONLY) 

E1 from Z Camera

Kickstarter may have some strange projects but it’s also a generator of great ideas and technology. Consider the E1, a sturdy 2.96 x 2.2 x 1.97-inch magnesium alloy camera body that weighs 7.4 ounces, is built around a Micro Four Thirds sensor and features an MFT mount. It shoots stills, including RAW (DNG) images plus 4K video. Sure, some action cameras may be smaller but they don’t support interchangeable lenses like the 16-megapixel E1 does. The camera’s built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth are complemented by iOS and Android apps and provide complete control over all camera functions. Ship date is not yet set but we’re anxious to see what this tiny camera can do.

PRICES: $699 (BODY ONLY), $999 (WITH 14MM F/2.5 LENS) 

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8

Outfitted with a new 20-megapixel sensor and utilizing a quad-core CPU, the GX8 promises faster response, better image quality, improved noise reduction and much faster AF tracking performance. With AFS, the camera cranks away at 8 fps in burst mode and a respectable 6 fps using continuous AF. Like the GX7, the new model offers both body and lens image stabilization, but with the GX8 you have the option of enabling both stabilizers at the same time for rock solid stills and video. Panasonic was at the forefront of bringing 4K video to mirrorless cameras so it’s no surprise that the GX8 offers 4K video, along with 4K Photo. The latter offers three modes that pull still frames from 4K video shots. The GX8 offers a wealth of features and, as a bonus, is splash and dustproof.

Price: $1,200 (BODY ONLY) 

Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II  

The next generation OM-D E-M5 Mark II offers much of what we loved about its predecessor (especially the 5-axis image stabilization) but takes it up a notch with enhancements such as a redesigned 16-megapixel sensor, an additional stop of IS (5 vs. 4), a microphone jack and built-in Wi-Fi. It’s a bit faster, too, with 10 fps and 5 fps continuous shooting (the latter with AF). There’s a fully articulated 3-inch touchscreen. With its Micro Four Thirds sensor and mount, you have a large assortment of lenses to choose from, making it a solid option for a wide range of photographic genres.

PRICE: $900 (BODY ONLY)