When it comes to DSLR camera brands, there is one that consistently stands out from the rest… the Sony brand. If you need a compact camera with DSLR capabilities, or the ability to shoot in low light conditions, then the Sony cameras in this guide should be on your shortlist. Over the years many amateur and professional photographers have invested in Sony DSLR cameras. It is notable that Sony has been able to please their consumer base, in addition, to win numerous awards from professional organizations.
Our guide, the Best Sony DSLRs for Every Budget, will show you some of the best mirrorless cameras on the market. We chose these cameras based on a variety of factors. Prices, internal features/capabilities, the purpose of use, and photography level. First up on our list is one of the best cameras on the list, the Sony a9.
Sony a9 Mirrorless Digital Camera
If you’re a professional photographer looking to take your career to the next level? Then you need to take a serious look at the Sony a9. The Sony a9 ($4500) is one of the most popular DSLR cameras used by wedding, sports, studio, and portrait photographers. With its amazing full frame sensor, 24.2 megapixels, and low light capabilities, the quality of photos that you’ll experience will be breathtaking.
The Sony a9 can shoot up to 20 frames per second continuously and has a wide variety of features. The BIONZ X processing engine helps with post-editing workflow. Another great feature you’ll enjoy is its lightweight body. Whether you’re shooting in a fast pace environment or in a staged environment, you will have no problem with fatigue. As a photographer, you may also want to capture some video footage as well. The Sony a9 is capable of shooting in video formats such as XVAC S, AVCHD, and MP4. You will definitely be pleased with every penny that you invest in the Sony a9.
Specifications
Megapixels: 24.2
Sensor Size: Full Frame
AF Points: 693 pts
ISO: 100-51200
In Body Stabilization: Yes
Video Resolution: 2160p @ 30fps
Continuous Shooting: 20 fps
Price: $4500
Sony a7R III Mirrorless Digital Camera
The Sony a7r III ($3198) is another popular option that professional photographers. With 42.4 megapixels (one of the highest megapixel levels in the Sony brand), the photos that you shoot will be extremely sharp and clear. If you are seeking to capture very specific details in your photography, the Sony a7rIII will get the job done.
One of this cameras best features is its low light shooting capabilities. If you’re looking to capture high-quality photos in dim lighting venues/environments, the a7r III is a great option with its ISO range of 100-32000. One issue that some photographers bring up with sony is the battery life. The a7r will 530-650 photos before having to recharge your battery. For comparison, the canon 80d shoots roughly 1200 photos before running out of juice. We highly recommend you bring extra batteries for any of the Sony digital cameras. The Sony a7rIII is a great option for photographers who are at the intermediate and professional levels.
Specifications
Megapixels: 42.4
Sensor Size: Full Frame
AF Points: 425 pts
ISO: 100-32000
In Body Stabilization: Yes
Video Resolution:
Continuous Shooting: 10 fps
Price: $3198
Sony a7II Mirrorless Digital Camera
If you’re new to photography you’ll want a camera to learn the basics on that won’t break the bank. The Sony a7II ($1598) is a perfect option for the amateur photographer looking to take their photography to the next level. This is a mid-grade DSLR that is perfect for capturing daily photos or professional quality images (including sporting events, weddings, nature, and more). The Sony a7II is a full frame camera with 5-axis image stabilization. The latter is important as you will be able to capture your best photos without having to worry if your shaky hands may cause a blur.
The a7 II has some great features, these include great focus capability, 100% field coverage, shutter speed (1/8000), and wireless functions. Additional features include an autofocus with 117 points, in-body stabilization, a video resolution of 1080p @ 60 fps, and a continuous shooting speed of 5 fps.
Specifications
Megapixels: 24.3
Sensor Size: Full Frame
AF Points: 117 pts
ISO: 100-25600
In Body Stabilization: Yes
Video Resolution: 1080p @ 60fps
high frame rate: 720p @120fps
Continuous Shooting: 5 fps
Price: $1398
Sony a7 III Full Frame Mirrorless Camera
The Sony a7 III ($1998) offers a range of impressive features making it a great choice for people looking for a powerful camera on a smaller budget. It’s ideal for photography enthusiasts and its impressive specs include 24.4 MP full-frame camera further enhanced with a BIONZ X image processor and 693 AF points. You can also capture 4K2 HDR3 video and thanks to its smart autofocus system anything you capture whether an image or video will look smooth and detailed. Other impressive features include a powerful long-lasting Z and 5-axis in-body SteadyShot image stabilization.
Specifications
Megapixels: 24.2
Sensor Size: Full Frame
AF Points: 425 pts
ISO: 50-51200
In Body Stabilization: Yes
Video Resolution: 2160p@30fps
Continuous Shooting: 10 fps
Price: $1998
Sony a6300 Mirrorless Digital Camera
Are you in the market for a starter level DSLR camera? Whether you’re taking photos simply as a hobby or looking to become a professional photographer, the Sony a6300 ($798) is definitely a great DSLR to start with. At an affordable price, you’ll be able to not only begin your journey as a photographer, but you will also be able to learn your way around working with a DSLR camera. This camera has 24.3-megapixel APS-C sensor, which will definitely allow for you to capture high-quality photos. The Sony a6300 can continuously shoot 11 frames per second. In addition to the latter, you can also shoot amazing 4k videos with a resolution of 2160p @ 30 frames per second. Additional features include an amazing 425 focus pts, in body stabilization, and an incredible ISO range of 100-512000.
Specifications
Megapixels: 24.2
Sensor Size: APS-C (23.5 x 15.6mm)
AF Points: 425 pts
ISO: 100-512000
In Body Stabilization: Yes
Video Resolution: 2160p @ 30fps
Continuous Shooting: 11 fps
Price: $798
Sony a5100 Mirrorless Digital Camera w/ 16-50mm Lens
The last DSLR camera on this list is the most affordable option for beginning photographers. The Sony a5100 ($548) is the starter camera that’s helped many current Sony users become lifelong consumers. The Sony a5100 features 24.3 megapixels, 6 frames per second continuous shooting, built-in Wi-Fi for easy sharing, NFC One-touch functionality, and face detection for portrait photos. It doesn’t have in-body stabilization and has a decent iso of 100-25000, which is a lot better than a number of Canon DSLR cameras. If you need high-speed continuous shooting I would look at other options in our guide. The basic APS-C sensor size is a great place for you to start. As you progress into higher grade DSLR cameras with full frame sensors, you’ll be able to appreciate and learn how to best utilize your Sony DSLR cameras.
Specifications
