In order not to be unfounded, we interviewed experts and professional photographers, studied customer reviews and compiled the TOP of the best professional cameras for 2021 in terms of price/quality ratio.
Rating of the TOP 20 best professional cameras of 2021
| Place | Name | Price |
| TOP 3 best professional cameras by price/quality for 2021 | ||
| 1 | Canon EOS M50 Kit | Find out the price |
| 2 | Sony Alpha ILCE-7M3 Body | Find out the price |
| 3 | Nikon Z50 Kit | Find out the price |
| TOP 3 best mirrorless professional cameras | ||
| 1 | Canon EOS RP Body | Find out the price |
| 2 | Sony Alpha ILCE-6400 Kit | Find out the price |
| 3 | Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III Kit | Find out the price |
| TOP 3 best professional SLR cameras | ||
| 1 | Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Body | Find out the price |
| 2 | Nikon D750 Body | Find out the price |
| 3 | Pentax K-1 Mark II Body | Find out the price |
| TOP 3 best professional cameras for a beginner photographer | ||
| 1 | Nikon D3500 Kit | Find out the price |
| 2 | Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II | Find out the price |
| 3 | Canon EOS M200 Kit | Find out the price |
| TOP 3 best professional full-frame cameras | ||
| 1 | Canon EOS R6 Body | Find out the price |
| 2 | Nikon Z5 Body | Find out the price |
| 3 | Sony Alpha ILCE-7M3 Kit | Find out the price |
| TOP 3 best compact professional cameras | ||
| 1 | Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100M5A | Find out the price |
| 2 | Fujifilm X100V | Find out the price |
| 3 | Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS200/TZ200 | Find out the price |
| TOP 2 best inexpensive professional cameras | ||
| 1 | Canon EOS M100 Kit | Find out the price |
| 2 | Olympus Tough TG-6 | Find out the price |
Top 6. Panasonic Lumix DC-FZ82
Rating (2021): 4.58
112 reviews from resources were taken into account: Yandex.Market, ROZETKA, DNS
The largest zoom A camera that can zoom in as much as 60 times. Other models with the same zoom are more expensive.
- Characteristics
Average price: 32990 rub.
- Country: Japan
- Type: compact
- Matrix: 18.9 MP, 1/2.3
- Sensitivity: ISO 80–3200
- Photo/video resolution: 4896×3672 / 3840x2160
One of the best ultrazooms for beginners and advanced photographers. The device has many capabilities, thanks to which it can be used in different scenarios: shooting landscapes and portraits, photo hunting for animals. The only important limitation: the size of the matrix does not give good photos in low light conditions. There is Wi-Fi, which makes it convenient to upload photos directly to your smartphone or PC. Videos can be shot in 4K resolution. The case is of high quality, the assembly is good - there are no backlashes, gaps, or creaks. In reviews, experienced owners recommend this model for purchase by beginners, as well as those who need the highest possible zoom in a budget price range.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Zoom up to 60x
- Wi-Fi available
- High video resolution
- Photo quality suffers greatly when shooting in poor light
- Small viewfinder
How to choose a professional camera?
When choosing a professional camera, you need to study the technical documentation of models that seem attractive and compare key parameters.
These include ergonomics, image quality and functionality.
- Weight, dimensions and form factor . When choosing a camera, this is one of the most important criteria, since those who work at outdoor events need the device to be light and convenient.
- Image quality. It is mainly determined by the matrix, so the more megapixels, the better.
- Functionality . This includes the presence of all sorts of features: autofocus, flash, time-lapse, timer, video shooting, RAW shooting, night mode.
- Clarity and color rendition of pictures . These indicators are mainly determined by stabilization and photosensitivity.
- Battery capacity and number . The capacity determines how long the camera can work without recharging, and the presence of a second battery in the kit allows you to quickly replace a dead one without waiting for it to be recharged. An even more comfortable option is a battery-powered camera.
- Compatible with a variety of accessories , from memory card type to tripod or strap mounts.
Top 8. Canon EOS 2000D Kit
Rating (2021): 4.51
64 reviews from resources were taken into account: DNS, Otzovik, Yandex.Market
- Characteristics
Average price: RUB 29,978.
- Country: Japan
- Type: mirror
- Matrix: 24.7 MP, APS-C, CMOS
- Sensitivity: ISO 100–3200, Auto ISO
- Photo / video resolution: 6000×4000 / 1920x1080
DSLR camera with low price. The manufacturer positions it as an entry-level model, but the ability to change optics greatly expands its capabilities. The basic package includes a kit lens, but professional photographers say that it is better to change it, for example, to a 24 mm ef-s or 50 mm ef. This Canon has a ton of scene settings that help the beginner take great shots. If you are looking for a good option to understand whether you want to continue to pursue photography or if it’s not your thing, then the EOS 2000D would be the best option: inexpensive, allows you to take additional lens purchases to a new level, easy to use even for beginners.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Simple and easy controls
- Optics can be changed
- High resolution photo
- Mediocre video quality
- Most flashes and synchronizers will not work
1. Hasselblad H6D-400c – $48,000
The top-end device from the Swedes, Hasselblad H6D-400c, is the standard that every photographer dreams of, but only a few can afford it, and it is often bought by wealthy amateurs who are far from professional photography.
The 100 MP sensor allows you to take pictures with a resolution of up to 11600x8700 pixels, but this is not the limit. The camera matrix is capable of shifting in each direction by half a pixel, and then combining the resulting images into one. Thanks to this, images are obtained in a resolution of 23200x17400 and weigh 2.4 GB each, saved in TIFF format.
1 1
7. Leica M Monochrom (Typ 246) - $7,550
To a person far from the topic of photography, it will probably seem crazy that a black and white camera costs 7.5 thousand dollars, but the fact remains a fact.
This camera is the successor to the M Monochrom (without mentioning the brand in the name), released in 2013. That model became the first digital and full-frame for b/w shooting, and the hero of our selection – Leica M Monochrom (Typ 246) – became its improved version.
The camera was equipped with a 24 MP matrix, depriving it of color filters that it simply does not need. Also, the camera does not need to calculate brightness using interpolation, which ensures high clarity of photos even when shooting in low light conditions.
Top 4. Nikon D5100 Kit
Rating (2021): 4.68
306 reviews from resources were taken into account: Onliner, DNS, IRecommned, Yandex.Market
The most popular This camera is more popular than any other of the top budget models for beginners. The statistics are confirmed by data from the Yandex.Wordstat service.
Best price The most budget model in our top. The closest camera in price with similar characteristics costs 22% more than this one.
- Characteristics
Average price: 17990 rub.
- Country: Japan
- Type: mirror
- Matrix: 16.9 MP, APS-C, CMOS
- Sensitivity: ISO 100–6400, Auto ISO
- Photo/video resolution: 4928×3264 / 1920x1080
One of the cheapest DSLRs, which is deservedly in the top of the best models for beginners. People buy it not only for its low price, but also because it has a rotating screen, a good battery, and quiet operation. Beginner users admit that learning the settings took 3-4 hours, and after that, managing and selecting settings did not raise any questions. The model seems heavy - the weight is more than 500 grams with the battery, but after a week the owners get used to it. The device is suitable for amateur photography, for travel, and for starting a photography career. Experienced users note that newer generations of Nikon are more expensive, but are characterized by more noise in the pictures.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Almost no noise in the photo
- Convenient control and simple setup
- Long battery life
- Handle is too small for large hands
- The battery compartment cover is not secure enough
- Video quality is poor
#4 – Fujifilm X-A7
Price: 49,490 rubles
The Fujifilm X-A7 model is one step away from getting on the prize podium in the selection of the best cameras for professional photography. The mirrorless device is equipped with advanced AF using 425 sensors, as well as a successful automatic mode. Professionals will appreciate the advanced manual mode with a lot of different settings.
The camera will also appeal to aesthetes who are keen on the appearance of devices - the retro design allows it to look much more interesting than its competitors in direct comparison. The main disadvantage of the Fujifilm X-A7 is the fact that the model heats up when shooting video in 4K.
Fujifilm X-A7
Top 2. Sony Alpha SLT-A58 Kit
Rating (2021): 4.75
324 reviews from resources were taken into account: DNS, ROZETKA, Otzovik, Yandex.Market, M.Video, Svyaznoy
Best DSLR Camera This model has received the highest ratings from experts and experienced photographers. It has wide ISO values, high photo resolution and many manual settings.
- Characteristics
Average price: 23850 rub.
- Country: Japan
- Type: mirror
- Matrix: 20.4 MP, APS-C, CMOS
- Sensitivity: ISO 100–25600
- Photo/video resolution: 5456×3632 / 1920x1080
The best budget DSLR camera with optical stabilization, high photo resolution, large ISO range. The screen rotates in two planes, which makes it convenient for shooting from different angles. A kit lens is quite suitable for beginners: its capabilities are enough to start a career, and there is no need to change optics at first. The menu is simple, even a novice photographer can quickly figure it out. The DSLR is fast: it snaps frames quickly, one after another, and this is an important advantage compared to even more expensive competitors. But when choosing this camera, remember that branded accessories are very expensive, and the standard shoe does not allow you to install simple and inexpensive flashes. Professional photographers believe that in automatic mode the system sets ISO values too high.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Rotating screen
- Fast work
- Good standard lens
- Expensive accessories
- Plastic mount
- Noisy descent
See also:
- 15 best tripods
Top 3. Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX80 Body
Rating (2021): 4.73
49 reviews taken into account from resources: ROZETKA, Yandex.Market, DNS
Best in All Features Light as a compact and capable as a DSLR, this camera deserves to be called the best in all features. The device can take high-quality photos and videos.
- Characteristics
Average price: 40,990 rub.
- Country: Japan
- Type: mirrorless
- Matrix: 16.84 MP, 4/3
- Sensitivity: ISO 100–25600
- Photo/video resolution: 4592×3448 / 3840x2160
The best possible camera from this top. It is more expensive than others, but is considered budget in the category of mirrorless cameras with interchangeable lenses. The model was released in 2021 and does not lose its relevance. In reviews, experts note that the device is excellent for both taking photos and recording videos. One of the main advantages of this Panasonic is the built-in stabilizer, which saves the picture from blurring even in difficult conditions. At a shutter speed of 15, you can take fairly sharp shots handheld, while competitors in the same conditions with a shutter speed of 40 produce blurry photos, no matter how hard you try. Of the minuses: there is no microphone output, the battery charge can barely withstand 2 hours of shooting, the noise of the matrix is in the shadows.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Extensive settings
- Excellent video and photo quality
- Sharp shots in difficult conditions
- No mic output
- Noise in dark areas of the frame
- Slow focusing in 4K mode
See also:
- 10 best new cameras of 2021
Digital compact cameras
For some users, the size of the case is of considerable importance. If they are too large, it is difficult to carry the device with you, and difficulties may arise during shooting. Compact cameras are best suited for travel. For professional photography, you can purchase models with detachable optics.
1
Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX15
RUB 43,840
High-quality optics are used in the manufacture of this model. The focal length can vary between 24-72 mm. The matrix is full-frame, excellent aperture allows you to get high-quality frames even in the absence of light sources.
The installed sensor is inch in size. Quality ISO1600, you can save the frame in a variety of formats. There are no phase sensors for autofocus.
9.9 /10
rating
Advantages
- High-quality optics
- Supports 4K recording
- USB charging available
- Durable body made of quality material
Flaws
- Battery drains quickly
- JPEG image quality is poor
Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX15
2
Canon IXUS 285HS
11,300 rub.
Among the features we can note excellent control; the DIGIC 4 processor copes well with the assigned tasks.
The model is characterized by a thin and stylish body, as well as high-quality assembly. The installed lens has a 12x optical zoom with a stabilizer, but the maximum aperture is 3.5 mm.
Many people decide to buy this model because of its attractive design and compact size.
9.7 /10
rating
Advantages
- Video shooting is carried out in FullHD format
- There is support for Wi-Fi and NFC
- Optical stabilizer with 12x zoom
Flaws
- The built-in WI-FI module drains the battery greatly
- The matrix is too sensitive and difficult to adjust
Canon IXUS 285HS
3
Nikon Coolpix W300
RUB 23,350
This action camera comes with attractive features. The device can dive to a depth of 30 m, and also fall onto a hard surface from a height of 2.4 m. This price includes a GPS module, as well as a barometer and compass.
Due to the high degree of protection, the main characteristics had to be reduced. The focal length ranges from 24 to 120 mm, aperture from 2.8 to 4.9. This causes a decrease in the degree of sharpness.
9.5 /10
rating
Advantages
- High mechanical strength and moisture resistance
- There is a function for recording video in 4K quality
- Long range focal length
Flaws
- The quality of the resulting images is relatively low
Nikon Coolpix W300
6. Hasselblad X1D-50c 4116 Edition with 45mm lens - $9,900
The Hasselblad X1D-50c 4116 Edition with a 45mm lens is every photographer's dream. The company has been manufacturing cameras for more than 150 years and during this time has gained vast experience. Each of its models contains everything you need, and sometimes even more.
Hasselblad X1D-50c is no exception: a medium format sensor measuring 43.8 x 32.9 mm, a 50 MP matrix, a dynamic range of 16 bits (enough for 14 exposure steps) - what else is needed for happiness? Perhaps almost 10,000 US dollars would be enough for this “doll”.
Interesting fact: Hasselblad specializes not only in the production of cameras for mass use, but also produces optics for NASA since 1962. Some American satellites and spacecraft still take pictures of the Earth and outer space using technology from this company.
What to look for when choosing
I would like the device to serve for a long time and perform its primary functions perfectly. Therefore, we recommend that you pay attention to the following parameters before purchasing:
- Weight and dimensions of the device. For many photographers, this is one of the most important parameters. There are “juicy” days when filming goes one after another. You have to jump on your feet most of the time, also with a huge, heavy bandura around your neck or in your hands. Choose the optimal size. For example, like your previous model.
- ISO value . The higher the ISO, the higher the light sensitivity and the more noise you have in your photo. The matrix of modern cameras is capable of providing a fairly wide ISO range. This parameter can be changed by pressing a couple of keys. The higher the value, the more detail increases in poor lighting conditions.
- Number of pictures per second . This parameter will be important for photographers who photograph moving objects (wild animals, athletes, etc.). Experienced experts recommend selecting at least 8 frames per second.
Top 5. Nikon D3400 Kit
Rating (2021): 4.66
77 reviews from resources were taken into account: Yandex.Market, Otzovik, DNS
The highest photo resolution An inexpensive SLR camera that captures photos in a resolution of 6000x4000. Other participants in the rating have slightly lower resolution.
- Characteristics
Average price: 21,900 rub.
- Country: Japan
- Type: mirror
- Matrix: 24.7 MP, APS-C, CMOS
- Sensitivity: ISO 100–3200, Auto ISO
- Photo / video resolution: 6000×4000 / 1920x1080
A budget DSLR camera with a long battery life and good image stabilization quality. In manual mode there are many settings, the menu is intuitive, there are tips for beginners. The assembly is of high quality despite the fact that the model is one of the most inexpensive. Even in Auto mode the photos come out good. The kit lens is simple, but will please you with the quality of shooting, especially if you take it with stabilization. Professional photographers recommend starting with it. Over time, you will understand what you are missing and purchase suitable optics. Focusing is accurate and tenacious, a rarity in the budget price range. Among the disadvantages: there is no Wi-Fi, only Bluetooth, the included lens has a small zoom.
Advantages and disadvantages
- Great price
- Good kit lens with stabilization
- Precise focus
- Blur-free photos when shooting handheld
- No Wi-Fi
- Problems with software for transferring photos to a smartphone
- Small zoom
2. Mamiya Leaf 645DF+ with Credo 50 back and 80mm f/2.8 lens - $33,600
The Mamiya Leaf 645DF+ with a Credo 50 back and an 80mm f/2.8 lens is a system camera with a removable back, albeit a bit cut down. System cameras allow you to take both digital photos and shoot on film, but this particular model does not support film backs.
However, with a gorgeous Schneider Kreuznach lens, a 50 MP matrix and a shutter speed of 1/10,000 sec. until an hour, I somehow don’t want to complain about it.
