Mirrorless vs. DSLR Cameras: The Differences

Buying guide: DSLR or mirrorless camera?

You’re standing in one of our Superstores, looking at a display filled with dozens of cameras staring back at you. Or maybe you’ve been scrolling online for hours comparing different models. So, which one should you buy? Will you go for a mirrorless camera or a DSLR? And what exactly is the difference?

In this article, we’ll briefly explain the biggest differences between mirrorless and DSLR cameras. Hopefully, this will make your choice a lot easier.

What is a DSLR camera?

A DSLR camera is also commonly referred to as a DSLR, which stands for Digital Single Lens Reflex. This type of camera is characterized by the mirror mechanism inside it. Modern DSLRs use a combination of mechanical components — such as the mirror — and digital technology, including the image sensor.

With an analog camera, photos are captured on film. A DSLR, on the other hand, processes and stores images digitally through the image processor and sensor (for example, a CMOS sensor), allowing you to view them directly on the LCD screen.

The final image may look slightly different from what you saw when taking the picture. That’s because a DSLR uses an optical viewfinder. The light entering through the lens is reflected by the mirror into the viewfinder, so you see the scene exactly as it appears in real life. When you press the shutter button, the mirror briefly flips up so the image can be captured by the sensor.

The mirror has another function besides allowing you to look through the viewfinder. It also directs the image to a dedicated autofocus sensor, where the focusing takes place.

The advantage of this system is its speed, but the downside is that the autofocus points often cannot cover the entire image area. Camera manufacturers try to overcome this limitation by using phase detection or contrast detection autofocus systems.

What is a mirrorless camera?

A mirrorless camera does not have a mirror mechanism. Everything works digitally. As a result, these cameras are often much smaller and lighter. In a mirrorless camera, a single sensor handles all tasks. This also means the viewfinder is digital, allowing you to see exactly how your photo will look before you take it. Many mirrorless cameras don’t even have a viewfinder, meaning you rely entirely on the LCD screen.

Autofocus is also handled directly through the sensor. Since mirrorless cameras are not dependent on a separate autofocus sensor, they can apply autofocus across almost the entire frame. In addition, more and more smart features are available, such as eye autofocus, animal autofocus, and even automatic tracking autofocus for fast-moving subjects.

And speaking of speed, mirrorless cameras are incredibly fast. Because there is no mirror flipping up and down with every shot, these cameras can use extremely fast shutter speeds and capture a large number of photos in rapid succession.

All of these convenient digital features have made mirrorless cameras extremely popular among filmmakers in recent years. The video capabilities of many models have evolved to deliver almost cinema-quality results. Thanks to the digital image processing and the absence of a mirror mechanism, these cameras often include in-body image stabilization. This allows you to capture beautifully stable footage while filming.

A DSLR usually does not have built-in stabilization, unless the stabilization is incorporated into the lens itself.

Does the sensor matter?

Absolutely! If terms like Full Frame, APS-C, and Micro Four Thirds don’t mean much to you yet, be sure to check out our sensor guide page. There, we explain in detail what the differences are and exactly how crop factor works.

The type of sensor is also an important factor when choosing a new camera.

Which one is right for you?

Over the past few years, mirrorless cameras have evolved into powerful devices that are highly suitable for both beginners and professionals. Many professional photographers still tend to prefer DSLR cameras because of the wide range of available lenses. While adapters can solve this issue for mirrorless systems, they also add extra costs on top of the lens itself. Lenses for mirrorless cameras can become quite expensive rather quickly, which is something beginners should also keep in mind. DSLRs often have more entry-level lenses available. In general, there are also slightly more accessories on the market for DSLR cameras.

Weight and size are important factors for many photographers. Although larger and heavier may seem like disadvantages, many photographers actually consider them benefits. A bigger body often provides better grip and stability. A heavier DSLR is also better balanced when paired with a large telephoto lens. On the other hand, many professionals specifically choose mirrorless cameras because of their lightweight and compact design. They are easy to take along while traveling, and they are often preferred for video recording as well.

Ultimately, choosing a camera is a very personal decision. Do you want high-tech features such as eye-detection autofocus? Or would you rather have a sharp optical viewfinder and a camera that feels solid in your hands? The choice is entirely yours. Think carefully about what you want to use the camera for, such as the type of photography you plan to do. Consider your budget, but also keep future expenses in mind if you plan to expand your setup with additional lenses and accessories.

Short & Simple

Our video team briefly explains the differences below once again.

Rental

Can’t decide? Then renting a camera is a great option for you. This way, you can try everything out and see what feels best to work with. Take a look at Kamera Express Rental (formerly Budgetcam) for a wide range of mirrorless and DSLR cameras.

Good to know: your total rental fee will be deducted from the price of the camera if you decide to purchase it after the rental period.