Looking to pick up your first DSLR or upgrade your current model? We’ve selected a range of cameras to suit a variety of specialisms
1. Budget: Canon EOS 4000D
Canon EOS 4000D Digital SLR Camera Body
Canon’s most budget-friendly DSLR. Ideal for those who want to learn, but produce high-quality images from the get-go.
Top five features:
- 18MP APS-C size CMOS sensor
- Full HD video
- Canon Photo Companion App and Wi-Fi
- Optical viewfinder
- Creative filters, applied in-camera
Why’s it so good?
It may be one of the least expensive DSLRs available, but Canon’s 4000D provides users with everything they need to start taking high-quality images. Built around a reliable 18MP APS-C sized sensor and a DIGIC 4+ processor, the 4000D is fitted with an EF/EF-S mount — giving access to Canon’s massive lens range. The simplified handling system and Photo Companion App provides intuitive coaching, allowing users to control as little or as much of their photography as they like. An optical viewfinder and 2.7in rear LCD display means image composition feels natural, while the camera can also be used to record Full HD video at up to 30fps. Other features include a 9-point AF system, 3fps burst shooting mode, Wi-Fi and a 500-shot battery life.
Also consider: Nikon D3400, Canon EOS 2000D
2. Enthusiast: Nikon D7500
Nikon D7500 Digital SLR Camera Body
Nikon's flagship APS-C body boasts 8fps burst shooting, and will certainly appeal to wildlife and sports photographers
Top five features:
- 20.9MP APS-C size CMOS sensor
- 4K video recording at 25fps
- 51-point phase-detection AF system
- 8fps burst shooting
- Touch and tilt display
Why’s it so good?
Nikon’s flagship DSLR with an APS-C sized sensor offers a feature set unrivalled by more affordable models. At its core is a highly respectable 20.9MP sensor that produces great image quality across its 100-51200 native ISO range. The body’s effective AF system includes 51 focus points (with 15 ultra-accurate cross-type points) and operates at light levels as low as -3EV. Continuous focus burst shooting is possible up to 8fps, making it a good choice for those making their first real move into sports or wildlife photography. Add in the ability to record 4K video at 25fps, Wi-Fi for remote file transfer to a smart device and a tilting touch-screen, and this camera is a very well-rounded model.
Also consider: Canon EOS 7D Mark II
3. Professional: Nikon D750
The D750 is a robust, full-frame workhorse and boasts impressive lowlight capabilities
Nikon D750 Digital SLR Camera Body
Top five features:
- Full-frame 24.3MP sensor
- Tough, weather-sealed body
- 51-point phase-detection AF system
- Dual SD card slots
- 1,230-shot battery life
Why is it so good? With a 24.3MP full-frame sensor that copes with high ISOs brilliantly, the Nikon D750 is a great choice for those who regularly find themselves shooting in low light (such as wedding and event photographers). The camera’s 51-point phase detection system also deals with tricky light conditions and fast-moving subjects well, making it a capable device for sports or wildlife. Its burst shooting mode offers a respectable 6.5fps and with a tough weather-sealed magnesium alloy body, this camera will take the strain of daily use much better than its more affordable plastic-bodied counterparts. Dual SD card slots allow photographers to back up files in the field and with a 1,230-shot battery life, this camera will excel as a professional workhorse. Other features of note include a tilt screen for comfort when composing at more extreme shooting angles, Wi-Fi for remote capture and file transfer, and Full HD video recording.
Also consider: Canon EOS 6D Mark II
4. Top-of-the-range: Canon EOS 1D X Mark II
Canon EOS 1D X Mark II Digital SLR Camera Body
Canon’ flagship DSLR boasts exceptional image quality and is built for capturing the most challenging of subjects and settings
Top five features:
- 20.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor
- 14fps burst shooting with AF tracking
- 61-point phase-detection AF System, with 41 cross-type points
- Built-in GPS
- 4K at 60fps
Why’s it so good?
For professional users who demand the ultimate in speed and performance, Canon’s 1D X Mark II sets the benchmark. Its 20.2MP full-frame sensor and dual DIGIC 6+ processors can capture superb quality RAW files at up to 14fps, with the device’s buffer only filling after 170 uncompressed files. When success depends on nailing those blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moments, this camera will deliver. Its 61-point phase-detection AF system, including 41 cross-type and 5 dual cross-type AF points, ensures accurate and speedy focus in all conditions, no matter the subject. Even when shooting at f/8, all 61 AF points remain at your disposal, including 21 cross-type sensors. High-quality 4K video can be recorded at up to 60fps by this camera too, while other features include in-built GPS, a rear touch-screen and SuperSpeed USB 3.0 connection.
Also consider: Nikon D5
5. Studio and landscape: Nikon D850
An uncompromising, high-resolution camera to help you shoot unique images with superb image quality
Nikon D850 Digital SLR Camera Body
Top five features:
- 45.4MP full-frame CMOS sensor
- 153 focus points (including 99 cross-type sensors)
- 4K at 30fps
- 9fps burst shooting mode
- Tilting touch-sensitive display
Why's it so good?
There are several high-resolution DSLRs on the market, but none of those quite beat the D850 when it comes to versatility. This device is far more than just a megapixel monster. The D850 does a fantastic job of sticking with moving subjects, thanks to its brilliant Multi-CAM 20K AF sensor module and 153-point AF system, which operates down to -4EV, and includes 99 cross-type and 15 sensors that support f/8. Pair this with a 9fps burst mode — and not forgetting that superior resolution — and the D850 can photograph just about anything. A touch-screen display, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, a massive 1,840-shot battery life and the ability to record 4K at 30fps only adds to this versatile camera’s appeal.
Also consider: Canon EOS 5DS
6. All-rounder: Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
2-Year Warranty
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Body
A professional full-frame body with the ability to deal with almost any situation you choose to shoot
Top five features:
- 30.4MP full-frame CMOS sensor
- 61-point phase-detection autofocus system with 41 cross-type AF points
- 4K at 30fps
- GPS built-in
- Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity
Why's it so good?
The Mark IV ticks a lot of boxes; it blends a high resolution sensor, 4K video, great connectivity options and the fantastic image quality we’ve come to expect from the 5D line. It’s a camera that can handle the unique challenges of every location, thanks to its superior build quality and solid weather-sealing. It records exactly where every shot is taken via built-in GPS, and with Wi-Fi connectivity, images can be shared quickly and easily. Add to that a 61-point phase-detection AF system with 41 cross-type points, for fast and accurate focusing, and a top burst rate of 7fps, and you won’t miss a moment. The 5D Mark IV is a great full-frame all-rounder.
Also consider: Pentax K-1 Mark II
About the Author
Matt Higgs has worked for Practical Photography and Digital Photo magazines, and his live music images have been featured in numerous respected music publications including Rock Sound, Guitarist, Guitar Techniques and Akustik Gitarre. www.matthiggsphotography.co.uk.
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