The growth of mirrorless cameras in the digital imaging market has been successful. Manufacturers can make smaller mirrorless cameras than their DSLR counterparts by removing the large mirror box that consumes space in the camera body. Although these hybrid cameras were once popular with casual photographers and beginners, today they are common with professionals too. Almost every professional photographer wants to own the compact system camera because it carries additional benefits not available on a DSLR. So, if you are in the market looking for one, consider starting with our top ten best mirrorless camera under 1000 reviews.
There are plenty of reasons to invest in a quality hybrid camera. Unlike the DSLR camera, a mirrorless interchangeable lens camera or MILC comes with a thinner body because it lacks a mechanical mirror for changing scenes between the image sensor and optical viewfinder. On the other hand, similar to a digital single-lens reflex camera, the mirrorless option works with different lenses. In the past, the best DSLR camera would offer the advantage of more lenses and accessory choices. While MILCs were famous for being lighter, more portable, faster, and the best choice for videos, you would pay the cost of accessing fewer lenses.
But thanks to adapters, a mirrorless camera can now attach to a wide range of lenses from DSLR manufacturers. Lens adapters for a mirrorless camera are common in the market. Therefore, your modern mirrorless camera can use nearly everything, from the newest lenses to the old medium type film lenses. With a wide selection of a hybrid camera to choose from, it often becomes challenging to settle on one. Whether you are trying to find the best mirrorless camera for beginners or something to match your existing collection of lenses, this review will help. Besides, there is a detailed compact system camera shopping guide coming after the top ten best mirrorless camera under the 100 section below.
Top 10 Best Mirrorless Camera Under 1000 Reviews
Although some people prefer digital SLRs, we believe those massive and weighty devices aren’t often the best choice to use on the go, even for skilled photographers. And so, it is the right time to introduce the best hybrid camera at $1000. Our list kicks off with a Sony camera for pioneering the mirrorless camera market.
1. Sony Alpha a6000 Mirrorless Digital Camera
The a600 is our prime choice among Sony’s models for having an affordable price. Its small size and portability make it the best mirrorless camera under 1000 for travel. The camera offers sharper images and faster AF, thanks to Sony’s BIONZ X processor.
Features of the Sony Alpha a6000 Mirrorless Digital Camera
| Key Features | Description |
| Megapixels | 24.3 |
| Sensor Size | APS-C |
| Processor | BIONZ X |
| Internal Stabilizer | Three-axis image stabilization |
| Weight | 0.76lbs |
| Video | FullHD 1080/24/60 pixels |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi and NFC |
| Built-in Viewfinder | 7.5 cm wide tilting TFT |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
- Fast autofocus
- Sharp OLED electronic viewfinder
- Built-in flash with multi-use hot shoe
- Connectivity through Wi-Fi and NFC
- Downloadable apps for the camera
- Eye sensor too sensitive
- No analog mic input
- Slow EVF in dim light
- No touchscreen
2. Canon EOS M50 Mirrorless Digital Camera
The Canon EOS M50 Mirrorless Digital Camera with EF-M 15-45mm Lens is Canon’s entry-level mirrorless choice with an electronic sporting viewfinder. It is the first non-professional option from Canon that supports 4K video recording.
Features of the Canon EOS M50 Mirrorless Digital Camera
| Key Features | Description |
| Megapixels | 24.1 |
| Sensor Size | APS-C CMOS |
| Processor | DIGIC 8 |
| Internal Stabilizer | N/A |
| Weight | 4.75 pounds |
| Video | UHD 4K, HD 720p |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and NFC |
| Built-in Viewfinder | 3-inch Vari-Angle Touchscreen |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
- Excellent image quality
- Dual Pixel AF
- Impressive battery life
- Silent shutter mode
- Simple menu
- Excellent monochrome images
- 4K video offers a large crop with no Dual Pixel AF
- A limited selection of native lenses
- Poor battery life
- Lacks USB charging
3. Sony Alpha a7IIK Mirrorless Digital Camera
The a7IIK is a perfect fit for the more experienced photographers. While the price is twice that of the a6000, the Sony Alpha a7IIK beats the former as the first-ever full-frame camera to offer 5-axis built-in image stabilization. Get this hybrid camera if you are in the market for the best mirrorless camera for video.
Features of the Sony Alpha a7IIK Mirrorless Digital Camera
| Key Features | Description |
| Megapixels | 24.3 |
| Sensor Size | Full-frame |
| Processor | BIONZ X |
| Internal Stabilizer | 5-axis in-body image stabilization |
| Weight | 1.32 lbs |
| Video | FullHD 1080p, 60p, 60i, 30p, and 24p |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi and NFC |
| Built-in Viewfinder | 3-inch, extra-fine, tiltable LCD |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
- Impressive EVF
- Unmatched image stabilization
- Small and compact
- Outstanding image quality
- Poor battery life
- Slow start-up
4. PANASONIC Lumix G7 4K Digital Mirrorless Camera
The PANASONIC Lumix G7 4K Digital Mirrorless Camera isn’t new in the market. Nevertheless, it offers excellent quality at a budget-friendly rate.
Features of the PANASONIC Lumix G7 4K Digital Mirrorless Camera
| Key Features | Description |
| Megapixels | 16 |
| Sensor Size | Micro 4/3 |
| Processor | Lumix G VARIO |
| Internal Stabilizer | N/A |
| Weight | 0.9lbs |
| Video | 4K UHD, 2160p |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi and NFC |
| Built-in Viewfinder | 3-inch LCD |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
- Excellent grip
- Great internal EVF
- Two-mode control dials
- Internal flash
- Plastic-like body
- Unavailable as body-only
5. Canon EOS M50 Mirrorless Camera
Aspiring photographers looking for a simple way to boost the quality of their videos and photos will find this Canon EOS M50 Mirrorless Camera a perfect fit.
Features of the Canon EOS M50 Mirrorless Camera
| Key Features | Description |
| Megapixels | 24.1 |
| Sensor Size | APS-C CMOS |
| Processor | DIGIC 8 processor |
| Internal Stabilizer | N/A |
| Weight | 0.86 lb |
| Video | 4K UHD, 2160p |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and NFC |
| Built-in Viewfinder | electronic viewfinder |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
- Compact size and lightweight
- Reliable white balance
- Excellent image quality
- Simple interface with detailed manual controls
- A small selection of native EF-M lenses
- Manual focus magnification is poor
6. Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless Camera
The Alpha a6400 is Sony’s mid-level 24 MP compact system camera or CSC camera. It carries a wide range of video and still image features, with a more reliable and simple autofocus system. The a6400 is a friendlier version to use than other Sony models.
Features of the Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless Camera
| Key Features | Description |
| Megapixels | 24 |
| Sensor Size | APS-C |
| Processor | BIONZ X |
| Internal Stabilizer | No |
| Weight | 1.72 pounds |
| Video | Full HD |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi |
| Built-in Viewfinder | LCD |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
- Excellent autofocus capability
- Impressive image quality
- Full samples of 4K videos
- Poor ergonomics
- Lacks built-in stabilization
- Rolling shutter when recording video
7. Canon EOS M50 Mirrorless Camera Deluxe Photo Bundle
Even though this Canon EOS M50 doesn’t come with a full-frame sensor, it is rich with other useful features.
Features of the Canon EOS M50 Mirrorless Camera
| Key Features | Description |
| Megapixels | 24.1 |
| Sensor Size | APS-C |
| Processor | DIGIC 8 processor |
| Internal Stabilizer | N/A |
| Weight | 0.86lbs |
| Video | 4K UHD / 2160 p |
| Connectivity | Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and NFC |
| Built-in Viewfinder | Electronic viewfinder |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
- Compact and lightweight
- Superb image quality
- Quick, accurate autofocus
- Simple interface
- Limited range of native EF-M lenses
- Single-dial control
8. Panasonic Lumix G7KS 4K Mirrorless Camera
The Lumix G7KS 4K Mirrorless Camera by Panasonic boasts of the next generation Micro Four Thirds lens. Its design makes it a compact, lightweight hybrid camera to use on the go.
Features of the Panasonic Lumix G7KS 4K Mirrorless Camera
| Key Features | Description |
| Megapixels | 16 |
| Sensor Size | Live MOS Sensor Four thirds |
| Processor | Venus Engine 9 |
| Internal Stabilizer | N/A |
| Weight | 0.9 lb |
| Video | 4K UHD, 1080i, 480p, 1080p, and 720p |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi |
| Built-in Viewfinder | LCD |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
- Impressive performance in low light settings
- Durable, scratch-proof design
- Excellent results with higher shutter speeds
- Decent video recording capability
- Lacks weather sealing
- You cannot buy the body separately
- Plastic design
9. PANASONIC Lumix FZ80 4K Digital Camera
The PANASONIC Lumix FZ80 packs with most features you’ll want in a cheap DSLR camera, including a built-in Power O.I.S image stabilization and the 60X zoom DC Vario lens.
Features of the PANASONIC Lumix FZ80 4K Digital Camera
| Key Features | Description |
| Megapixels | 18.1 |
| Sensor Size | MOS 1/2.3-inch |
| Processor | Venus Engine |
| Internal Stabilizer | N/A |
| Weight | 1.36 lbs |
| Video | 4K QFHD, 4K UHD |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi |
| Built-in Viewfinder | 3-inch LCD touchscreen |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
- Touch LCD
- Fast autofocus
- Impressive 60x zoom range
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- 30 frames per second 4K photo capture
- Sharp electronic viewfinder
- Non-tilting rear LCD
- Lacks 24fps video capture
- No internal image stabilizer
10. Canon EOS Rebel T6 Digital SLR Camera
The Canon EOS Rebel T6 is among the most accessorized devices on our list of the best mirrorless camera under 1000. It comes with up to three lenses, a flash, tripod, and a 48 GB memory card, among others.
Features of the Canon EOS Rebel T6 Digital SLR Camera
| Key Features | Description |
| Megapixels | 18 |
| Sensor Size | APS-C CMOS |
| Processor | DIGIC 4+ processor |
| Internal Stabilizer | N/A |
| Weight | 1.07 lb |
| Video | Full HD 1080p |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi and NFC |
| Built-in Viewfinder | 3-inch LCD optical viewfinder |
| Warranty | 1-year limited warranty |
- Built-in Wi-Fi
- Excellent video resolution
- Internal optical viewfinder
- NFC connectivity
- Face detection focusing
- Compact and lightweight
- Lacks image stabilization
- Poor performance in low light
- No environmental sealing
10 Important Things To Know About The Best Mirrorless Camera Under 1000
Deciding which is the best mirrorless camera under 1000 can be a confusing thing. You need to consider several factors when choosing the right hybrid camera. Here are some vital factors to consider when shopping for the best mirrorless camera under 1000.
1. Price
Price is often the first thing you’ll look at when picking the perfect camera. It is essential to note that the most expensive camera may not always be your best fit. Unlike most products where pricing determines quality, the best camera for you may depend on your level of skills and needs. You may also want to take into account the cost of any additional items as you prepare your budget.
The camera itself often accounts for a small percentage of the entire photography cost. The gear might cost you up to three times more than the money you spend on a compact system camera. So, you should consider your journey in photography when planning a budget. This could be an expensive venture if you will be using the camera all the time.
2. Portability
Size and ergonomics factors often determine a camera’s portability. Travel photographers will need to bring their gear along the journey, which may include lenses. Extra items can add to the weight of your luggage. Therefore, photographers regularly prefer light cameras to ease the load.
Unlike bulky DSLRs that require big spaces to store, the smaller hybrid cameras only need a fraction of that space. Nevertheless, different brands and models come in various dimensions and weights. For example, the Sony Alpha a7IIK Mirrorless Digital Camera comes with internal 5-axis image stabilization. It removes the need to bring along an extra lens for image stabilization and reduces the weight of your luggage.
Also, getting a compact mirrorless camera makes it easy to maneuver, while carrying around the shoulders or neck for a long time. You’ll want to acquire a small compact system camera to fit in your travel bag with other items easily. In addition, make sure the camera harness is comfortable to avoid straining your neck or shoulders.
3. Auto Features
Beginners in photography often depend on the ability of a camera to set up the right shots. If you are still finding your way around photography, consider buying a device with impressive auto-properties. Some of the automatic features may include;
- AutoFocus
- Environment presets
- Auto ISO settings
- Different aperture speeds with the f-stop
The settings will help save the time you would take reading manuals and ensure better camera operation. Sometimes experienced photographers need to get faster shots while achieving better photography. Using these auto features can enhance the quality of image content, which explains why professionals are now taking advantage of the presets.
4. Continuous Shooting
All cameras today are about processing and speed. The majority of cameras come with a faster processor, an aperture, as well as shutter with shutter speeds. All these properties allow users to shoot rapidly and as many times as they need without reloading. The AutoFocus speed and electronic viewfinder are vital in achieving continuous shooting. You’ll want to ensure the preferred camera doesn’t produce excessive noise when in continuous shooting.
5. Interface and Controls
The best mirrorless camera under 1000 packs plenty of fancy features with an advanced interface. Learning to use the touch screen and buttons can be challenging. We recommend getting an easy-to-use hybrid camera.
An easy to use camera will allow you to explore its settings fully, including the acronyms and the functions of each button. Also, the new interfaces and tiltable LCD screens will let you take photos from different angles.
6. Lens Compatibility
Camera lenses are a significant investment in photography. Remember to include basic lenses when planning your camera budget. High-end lenses will ensure you get the best shots, although they cost a fortune. Therefore, cameras with higher lens compatibility are a better investment. You can buy an adapter to ensure your camera is compatible with multiple lenses.
7. Image Sensor
The size of an image sensor affects image quality. Besides, it influences the depth of field, exposure, and effective focal length. The most popular hybrid cameras use Micro Four Thirds and APS-C image sensors.
8. Electronic Viewfinder
The electronic viewfinder differentiates the best compact system cameras from the basic models. You will be aligning images and shooting through the LCD screen on the camera’s back, just as you would do with a smartphone if it lacks the EVF.
9. Connectivity
Most hybrid cameras are keeping up with the connectivity of the world we live in today. The best mirrorless camera under 1000 often comes with Bluetooth, NFC, and Wi-Fi for connectivity and data transfer.
10. Weather Sealing
For extra protection, make sure to shop for a mirrorless camera with weather sealing. Most models add rubber sealing and casing on the camera body and buttons to make them moisture and dust-proof. While this feature varies from one manufacturer and model to the next, it helps to protect your device from natural elements.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
What camera is the best for taking pictures of dogs under 1000
The best camera for taking pictures of dogs under 1000 should be easy to handle, have regular lighting, and allow for motion control.
What is the best digital SLR camera under $1000
The best digital SLR camera under $1000 will depend on your preferences and budget. However, we recommend the Sony Alpha A7 because it comes with the convenience of internal 5-axis image stabilization, among other great features.
What is the best full-frame mirrorless camera under $1000?
The Sony Alpha a7IIK is the first-ever camera to offer full-frame recording. Therefore, we recommend it as the best full-frame mirrorless camera under $1000.
The Bottom Line
Many people prefer mirrorless cameras for travel photography. The hybrid models provide excellent image quality and impressive functionality. Also, the best mirrorless camera under 1000 is more portable and lighter than the DSLR counterpart. You will want to invest in a quality lens adapter so that your compact system camera is compatible with all digital SLR lenses. In doing so, you will get better flexibility in your professional