Rating of the TOP-17 SLR cameras of 2021: an overview and characteristics of the best models

SLR cameras - rating and review of models. Description, technical parameters, pros and cons of popular devices. How to choose a SLR camera.

Mirrored cameras considered classics and lot of professionals.

Principle of operation such devices are indeed allows you to get undistorted, very high-quality images with the highest detail.

We figure out how to choose a SLR camera, what is its difference from a mirrorless device, which models deserve the title of the best.

Let's turn to the rating of popular devices in terms of experts and consumer reviews.

Rating TOP-17 best SLR cameras

Place	Model	Price
The best models in terms of price and quality
#1	Canon EOS 6D Body
#2	Nikon D750 Body
#3	Nikon D500 Body
#4	Nikon D5600 Kit
#5	Canon EOS 800D Kit
Inexpensive models for beginners
#1	Nikon D3500 Kit
#2	Canon EOS 2000D Kit
#3	Nikon D5300 Kit
#4	Canon EOS 200D Kit
Semi-professional models
#1	Canon EOS 80D Body
#2	Nikon D610 Body
#3	Canon EOS 77D Kit
#4	Canon EOS 90D Body
Professional Models
#1	Nikon D780 Body
#2	Canon EOS 6D Mark II Body
#3	Nikon D850 Body
#4	Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Body

Criteria for choosing a SLR camera

Stay up to date! The choice of a digital SLR camera is based on the following parameters:

Matrix.
You should pay attention to the number of megapixels and image resolution.In theory, the higher these parameters, the better.
Also important is the self-cleaning option of the matrix, its type (CMOS, CCD, Live MOS).
Each type of matrix has its own advantages and disadvantages; modern cameras are dominated by CMOS sensors.
Optics.
SLR cameras are sold both with a lens in the kit (kit) and without it (body).
For beginners, kits with universal optics are recommended for purchase.
The lens has a decisive effect on the quality of images, for this reason experienced photographers tend to buy the body option.
Focus system.
Regardless of the type, the focus mechanism when working in automatic and manual modes should be as accurate and fast as possible.
It is worth checking the operation of the system empirically, for example, before buying in a store.
Stabilization.
The system significantly improves the quality of shooting. In professional models, matrix-shift stabilizers are often used.
The stabilization built into the lens increases the cost of the device by an order of magnitude, but is less effective.

The best models in terms of price and quality

The modern fleet of digital SLRs is saturated with Japanese brands, the largest of which are Canon and Nikon.

Keep in mind! The best cameras from manufacturers topped this rating.

Rating of the TOP-5 best models in terms of price and quality ratio.

Canon EOS 6D Body

Equipped with a full-frame sensor, the Canon EOS 6D Body DSLR guarantees high-quality images in formats such as JPEG and RAW that are most suitable for post-processing.

The 3-inch screen of the device allows you to see 97 percent of the viewfinder field of view for the most accurate photo / video shooting.

Tracking, single-frame and intelligent focus modes provide the ability to capture clear pictures in various lighting conditions.

Wi-Fi, USB, HDMI ports provide compatibility with other digital gadgets. Information storage is realized by means of memory cards SD, SDHC, SDXC.

Main characteristics:

supported lenses - Canon EF (optional);
matrix - 20.2 MP, 5472? 3648;
display - 3?;
focus - phase type;
interfaces - Wi-Fi, USB, audio, HDMI;
battery capacity - 1090 photos;
video - 1920 ? 1080, 60fps;
features - GPS, orientation sensor, HDR;
dimensions and weight - 145? 111? 71 mm, 755 g.

Advantages

excellent ergonomics;
availability of wireless interfaces;
high-quality shooting in low light;
powerful battery;
effective noise reduction system.

Flaws

does not shoot in RAW in automatic modes;
short exposure;
auto white balance sucks.

Nikon D750 Body

Nikon D750 Body allows you to take high-quality photos and videos with maximum convenience - this is facilitated by the compact design of the camera, mechanical control buttons and settings.

The built-in flash with bracketing works in both automatic and manual modes.

All options and captured images are displayed on a 3.2-inch screen that has a swivel mount design.

Files in auto mode are saved to the memory card in popular JPEG and RAW formats.

Wi-Fi technology allows you to transfer photos and videos to other devices.

Main characteristics:

supported lenses - Nikon F (optional);
matrix - 24.3 MP, 6016? 4016;
display - 3.2?, swivel;
focus - phase type;
interfaces - Wi-Fi, USB, audio, HDMI;
battery capacity - 1230 photos;
video - 1920 ? 1080, 60fps;
features — orientation sensor;
dimensions and weight - 141? 113? 78 mm, 750 g.

Advantages

high speed and accuracy of phase autofocus;
light weight, compact size;
Ease of use;
great autonomy.

Flaws

small buffer during continuous shooting;
inconvenient proprietary NX-D converter.

Nikon D500 Body

The Nikon D500 Body SLR camera, which is devoid of a lens in the basic configuration, allows the user to choose this accessory on their own in accordance with the specific goals and objectives of the planned shooting.

The camera allows you to create photos in resolution up to 5568? 3712 dots, record videos up to half an hour in 4K resolution.

One of the features of this camera is the availability and ease of management of the existing functionality.

The device is equipped with a matrix of 20.9 million pixels, accurate and fast auto focus mechanisms.

The battery capacity of this camera is 1900 mAh.

Main characteristics:

supported lenses - Nikon F (optional);
matrix - 20.9 MP, 5568? 3712;
display - 3.2?, swivel, touch;
focus - phase type;
interfaces - Wi-Fi, Video, USB, audio, Bluetooth, HDMI, NFC, remote control port;
battery capacity - 1200 photos;
video - 3840 ? 2160, 60fps;
features — orientation sensor;
dimensions and weight - 147? 115? 81 mm, 760 g.

Advantages

long battery life;
high autofocus speed and accuracy;
Ease of use;
solid housing with dust / moisture protection.

Flaws

a rare format of used memory cards (XQD);
weak functionality for video;
no built-in flash.

Nikon D5600 Kit

The Nikon D5600 Kit DSLR allows you to take high-quality pictures and videos in high resolution even in low light and while the subject is moving.

This is facilitated by the vibration reduction system, 3.2-inch swivel touch screen, built-in flash.

Autofocus ensures that the smallest details are captured, built-in Wi-Fi allows you to transfer videos and photos to a smartphone or tablet.

A capacious 1230 mAh battery allows you to take at least 820 frames.

Transportation of the equipment is facilitated by a strong shoulder strap.

Main characteristics:

supported lenses - Nikon F (included);
matrix - 24.2 MP, 6000? 4000;
display - 3.2?, swivel, touch;
focus - hybrid type;
interfaces - Wi-Fi, USB, Bluetooth, HDMI, NFC, audio;
battery capacity - 820 photos;
video - 1920 ? 1080, 60fps;
features — orientation sensor, HDR;
dimensions and weight - 124? 97? 70 mm, 420 g.

Advantages

democratic price;
high quality picture;
convenient automatic modes;
thoughtful controls;
an abundance of manual shooting settings.

Flaws

unreliable battery cover;
noise in poor lighting conditions;
lack of stabilization on the matrix.

Canon EOS 800D Kit

The Canon EOS 800D Kit, built for high quality photography and videography, boasts excellent features, including compactness and perfect ergonomics.

CMOS matrix with physical dimensions of 22.3? 14.9 mm, crop factor 1.6, ISO 100-25600 with the possibility of subsequent expansion and a resolution of 24.2 MP guarantees perfect image accuracy and detail.

The device is equipped with a kit lens with a focal length of 18-55 mm.

If necessary, the user can use other compatible optics.

The power source in this device is a 1040 mAh battery.

Main characteristics:

supported lenses - Canon EF / EF-S (included);
matrix - 24.2 MP, 6000? 4000;
display - 3?, rotary, touch;
focus - hybrid type;
interfaces - Wi-Fi, Video, USB, audio, Bluetooth, HDMI, NFC, remote control port;
battery capacity - 600 photos;
video - 1920 ? 1080, 60fps;
features — orientation sensor, HDR;
dimensions and weight - 131? 100 ? 76 mm, 532 g.

Advantages

excellent photo quality;
simplified menu for beginners;
fast autofocus;
ergonomic swivel screen.

Flaws

the complete lens is not the most outstanding;
noise at ISO above 3200;
relatively large weight.

Inexpensive models for beginners

amateur DSLRs conditionally divided into two classes - "for beginners" (the cheapest equipment with auto modes) and "for enthusiasts" (with great scope for creativity).

Note! The following ranking presents the best models of budget devices.

Review of the best SLR cameras for beginners.

Nikon D3500 Kit

The Nikon D3500 Kit SLR camera in a durable housing made of quality materials allows you to take spectacular pictures and videos in any weather.

This model uses a CMOS-matrix with physical dimensions of 23.5? 15.6 mm.

In one second, the user can take up to five frames without missing the key moment of shooting.

The device is distinguished by a well-thought-out design with a convenient arrangement of controls.

The sensitivity range from 100 to 25600 ISO provides the ability to shoot photos and videos in bright sunlight and in cloudy weather.

Main characteristics:

supported lenses - Nikon F (included);
matrix - 24.2 MP, 6000? 4000;
display - 3?;
focus - phase type;
interfaces - USB, Bluetooth, HDMI;
battery capacity - 1550 photos;
video - 1920 ? 1080, 60fps;
features — tripod mount;
dimensions and weight - 124? 97? 70 mm, 365 g.

Advantages

light weight;
excellent stabilization;
ease of setup;
high build quality.

Flaws

the screen is not protected from scratches;
lack of Wi-Fi;
The duration of video recording in maximum quality is only 10 minutes.

Canon EOS 2000D Kit

The Canon EOS 2000D Kit DSLR is an entry-level model equipped with an all-purpose lens for capturing decent quality photos and videos.

The camera is equipped with a 24.1-megapixel CMOS-matrix with a maximum photo resolution of up to 6000? 4000 points.

A wide sensitivity range with a minimum ISO of 100 and a maximum of 6400, as well as a built-in flash with a range of up to 9.2 meters, imply a universal use of the device.

Wi-Fi and NFC modules, an SD memory card slot expand the capabilities of the camera.

Main characteristics:

supported lenses - Canon EF / EF-S (included);
matrix - 24.1 MP, 6000? 4000;
display - 3?;
focus - phase type;
interfaces - Wi-Fi, USB, HDMI, NFC;
battery capacity - 500 photos;
video - 1920 ? 1080, 60fps;
features — orientation sensor;
dimensions and weight - 129? 101? 78 mm, 475 g.

Advantages

low price;
modern matrix;
good ergonomics;
powerful flash;
good kit lens.

Flaws

small delays when navigating in the menu;
lack of dust protection;
poor autonomy.

Nikon D5300 Kit

Model Nikon D5300 Kit with a maximum photo resolution of 6000? 4000 and high sensitivity settings will help you capture the most important moments without losing sight of a single detail.

The camera matrix stands out with a 42-bit color depth and a self-cleaning option.

The user has access to automatic and manual white balance settings, as well as the bracketing option.

The integrated shutter release timer operates from 2 to 20 seconds.

The flash operates at a distance of up to 12 meters.

The reflex viewfinder provides a 95 percent field of view. Connection with other devices is possible via USB, HDMI, video port or Wi-Fi.

Main characteristics:

supported lenses - Nikon F (included);
matrix - 24.2 MP, 6000? 4000;
display - 3?, rotary;
focus - phase type;
interfaces - Wi-Fi, Video, USB, audio, HDMI, remote control port;
battery capacity - 600 photos;
video - 1920 ? 1080, 60fps;
features - GPS, orientation sensor, HDR;
dimensions and weight - 125? 98? 76 mm, 480 g.

Advantages

high speed of work;
excellent photo quality;
good video quality;
tilting screen with viewfinder mode;
fast and quiet autofocus.

Flaws

weak battery;
expensive optics;
stabilization only in the lens;
no moisture / dust protection.

Canon EOS 200D Kit

SLR camera Canon EOS 200D Kit with intuitive settings and controls.

Equipped with a convenient 3-inch touch screen that doubles as a footage viewer and viewfinder.

The camera is equipped with a 24.2 MP digital matrix, universal Canon EF/EF-S optics with a focal length of 18–55 mm.

Photos and video frames are saved to an SD, SDHC or SDXC drive.The device is powered by a 1040 mAh LP-E17 battery.

The presented device is equipped with many convenient options, which makes it the best choice for beginners.

Main characteristics:

supported lenses - Canon EF / EF-S (included);
matrix - 24.2 MP, 6000? 4000;
display - 3?, rotary, touch;
focus - phase type;
interfaces - Wi-Fi, Video, USB, audio, Bluetooth, HDMI, NFC, remote control port;
battery capacity - 650 photos;
video - 1920 ? 1080, 60fps;
features — orientation sensor, HDR;
dimensions and weight - 122? 93? 70 mm, 456 g.

Advantages

good detail of pictures;
light weight;
convenient swivel screen;
universal complete lens;
convenient controls.

Flaws

some software features are missing (auto ISO, silent shooting, etc.);
poor-quality sound recording from the built-in microphone.

Semi-professional models

Important! Cameras in this segment are comparable to professional cameras - this is powerful hardware, impressive functionality, excellent lenses.

Devices shown below differ from the "pros" except perhaps not such a high burst speed and a shorter shutter life.

Canon EOS 80D Body

Packed with powerful features, the Canon EOS 80D Body is the perfect solution for amateur photographers looking for a professional experience.

Among the features of this model, we can note an improved matrix with 24.2 million effective pixels, electronic time-lapse, support for wireless technologies and a powerful battery.

Burst photography is performed here at a speed of 7 frames per second.

The flash has a range of up to 12 meters.

For full-fledged creativity, the user will need to purchase Canon EF / EF-S optics, which is not included in the basic kit.

Main characteristics:

supported lenses - Canon EF / EF-S (optional);
matrix - 24.2 MP, 6000? 4000;
display - 3?, rotary, touch;
focus - phase type;
interfaces - Wi-Fi, Video, USB, audio, HDMI, NFC, remote control port;
battery capacity - 960 photos;
video - 1920 ? 1080, 60fps;
features — orientation sensor, HDR;
dimensions and weight - 139? 105? 79 mm, 730 g.

Advantages

ergonomics at height;
wide dynamic range;
excellent image quality;
viewfinder with full frame coverage.

Flaws

not the best image detail;
autofocus periodically "misses";
low battery life.

Nikon D610 Body

The Nikon D610 Body SLR camera, equipped with a 24.3 MP CMOS sensor and intelligent automation, will allow you to concentrate on the artistic process without being distracted by technical nuances.

The exposure here is distinguished by several processing modes - matrix, spot and center-weighted.

The autofocus system is based on the Multi-CAM 4800 FX sensor with 39 points.

The speed of a series of photos reaches 6 frames per second. Silent operation is another strong point of the presented device.

Autofocus and shutter have little to no effect on the background sound of video recording, which is limited in time to 30 minutes.

Main characteristics:

supported lenses - Nikon F (optional);
matrix - 24.3 MP, 6016? 4016;
display - 3.15?;
focus - phase type;
interfaces - USB, audio, HDMI, remote control port;
battery capacity - 900 photos;
video - 1920 ? 1080, 60fps;
features - metal case, moisture protection, orientation sensor, HDR;
dimensions and weight - 141? 113? 82 mm, 760 g

Advantages

high speed continuous shooting;
fast autofocus;
wide dynamic range;
flexible auto ISO setting;
build quality at the level.

Flaws

minimum shutter speed 1/4000;
big weight;
high price.

Canon EOS 77D Kit

The Canon EOS 77D Kit camera in a compact body made of high-quality material weighs just over 500 grams.

This allows you to use it for amateur and professional shooting in any situation.

The device has all the necessary functionality for this.

First of all, this is a CMOS-type sensor with 24.2 million effective pixels and a resolution of up to 6000? 4000 dots, ISO 100-25600 extended, Canon EF/EF-S 18-135mm lens.

In one second, the device allows you to take up to 6 pictures. The flash with red-eye reduction option works up to 12 meters away.

Main characteristics:

supported lenses - Canon EF / EF-S (included);
matrix - 24.2 MP, 6000? 4000;
display - 3.2?, swivel, touch;
focus - hybrid type;
interfaces - Wi-Fi, Video, USB, audio, HDMI;
battery capacity - 600 photos;
video - 1920 ? 1080, 60fps;
features — orientation sensor, HDR;
dimensions and weight - 131? 100 ? 76 mm, 540 g.

Advantages

conveniently implemented management;
the presence of an additional monochrome screen;
convenient swivel main screen;
quality photography.

Flaws

not the most powerful battery;
minimum shutter speed 1/4000;
not the best video stabilization.

Canon EOS 90D Body

The Canon EOS 90D Body DSLR with 32.5 MP APS-C sensor is a worthy solution when you need to capture the brightest moments, including those that cannot be seen with the naked eye.

The rate of fire of the device is up to 10 frames per second.

High ISO sensitivity makes it possible to capture dynamic scenes with a shutter speed of 1/8000 second.

The intelligent screen displays all shooting information, and its adjustable tilt angle allows you to shoot at an angle.

Focus and shoot with a single touch, allowing you to capture the most important moments.

Main characteristics:

supported lenses - Canon EF / EF-S (optional);
matrix - 32.5 MP, 6960? 4640;
display - 3?, rotary, touch;
focus - phase type;
interfaces - Wi-Fi, USB, Bluetooth, HDMI, audio, remote control port;
battery capacity - 1300 photos;
video - 3840 ? 2160, 120 fps;
features - moisture / dust protection, orientation sensor, HDR;
dimensions and weight - 141? 105? 77 mm, 701 g.

Advantages

convenient control of modes and shooting;
fast photo and video processing;
interesting author's HDR modes;
picture quality is top notch.

Flaws

insufficient dynamic range;
creative modes quickly "eat up" the battery;
problems with sharpness when using non-native lenses.

Professional Models

It is worth noting! Professional DSLRs have high-quality matrices, an abundance of settings, dust / moisture protection and an impressive shutter life.

The following ranking presents the best representatives of the "pro" class.

Nikon D780 Body

The Nikon D780 Body is a professional camera with Live View mode for silent shooting, and a swivel touchscreen display that is convenient for both viewing photos and selecting the desired characteristics.

Another interesting feature of the device is the shutter speed increased to 1/8000 second, followed by synchronization with flashes of the proprietary Speed Light line.

The camera supports the Nikon F mount.

The 24.5 MP matrix resolution and the ability to record in 4K UHD format make the device one of the most popular among professional photographers.

Main characteristics:

supported lenses - Nikon F (optional);
matrix - 24.5 MP, 6048? 4024;
display - 3.2?, swivel, touch;
focus - phase type;
interfaces - Wi-Fi, USB, audio, Bluetooth, HDMI, remote control port;
battery capacity - 2260 photos;
video - 3840 ? 2160, 120 fps;
features — orientation sensor;
dimensions and weight - 144? 116? 76 mm, 755 g.

Advantages

fast and accurate autofocus;
remote control from the phone;
two slots for SD-cards;
advanced exposure options;
sharp picture.

Flaws

unfriendly photo transfer app;
the high cost of the device itself and accessories.

Canon EOS 6D Mark II Body

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II Body professional SLR camera does not come equipped with a lens by default.

The user is given the opportunity to choose the most convenient Canon EF mount from his point of view.

The device is equipped with a CMOS-type digital sensor with 26.2 million effective pixels. Image resolution is 6240? 4160 points.

The presence of a touch screen viewfinder with a variable angle of inclination gives the user the opportunity to choose the most successful angle.

Synchronization via Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and NFC channels makes it easy to send ready-made photo / video materials. Storage of files in the device itself is provided by an SD, SDHC or SDXC format drive.

Main characteristics:

supported lenses - Canon EF (optional);
matrix - 26.2 MP, 6240? 4160;
display - 3?, rotary, touch;
focus - phase type;
interfaces - Wi-Fi, USB, Bluetooth, HDMI, NFC, audio, remote control port;
battery capacity - 1200 photos;
video - 1920 ? 1080, 60fps;
features - dust protection, GPS, orientation sensor, HDR;
dimensions and weight - 144? 111? 75 mm, 765 g.

Advantages

extended dynamic range;
convenient swivel screen;
built-in Time Lapse;
electronic video stabilization;
capacious battery;
useful GPS geolocation.

Flaws

one SD card slot;
there are misses of the exposure meter;
noise at high ISO.

Nikon D850 Body

With a 45.7 MP BSI CMOS sensor, the Nikon D850 Body allows you to capture the highest quality photos and videos by choosing the right lens for you.

ISO sensitivity in this device varies from 64 to 25600, in extended mode - from 32 to 102400 units.

The shutter speed range is from 1/8000 to 30 seconds. The built-in timer can be set to 2, 5, 10 or 20 seconds.

The model allows you to save pictures in JPEG, TIFF and RAW formats. Wi-Fi, USB and Bluetooth technologies are used for data transfer.

Main characteristics:

supported lenses - Nikon F (optional);
matrix - 45.7 MP, 8256? 5504;
display - 3.1?, swivel, touch;
focus - phase type;
interfaces - Wi-Fi, USB, Bluetooth, HDMI, audio, remote control port;
battery capacity - 1840 photos;
video - 3840 ? 2160, 60fps;
features — photography in FX format;
dimensions and weight - 146? 124? 79 mm, 915 g.

Advantages

exceptional photo detail;
excellent color rendering;
accurate and fast autofocus;
excellent ergonomics.

Flaws

wireless interfaces quickly “eat up” the battery charge;
high cost of XQD memory cards;
great weight.

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Body

The ruggedized Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Body DSLR is the perfect solution for professionals looking for the highest quality.

The device is equipped with a CMOS-matrix with 30.4 million effective pixels. Extended ISO settings are 50-102400 units.

The user is also available - shutter speed setting 1/8000-30 seconds, timer 2-10 seconds, manual and automatic modes, ultra-precise focusing system for 61 points, built-in NFC, Wi-Fi, GPS modules.

Management and viewing of materials are available on a 3.2-inch screen.

Main characteristics:

supported lenses - Canon EF (optional);
matrix - 30.4 MP, 6720? 4480;
display - 3.2?;
focus - phase type;
interfaces - Wi-Fi, USB, HDMI, NFC, audio, remote control port;
battery capacity - 900 photos;
video - 4096 ? 2160, 120fps;
features - moisture / dust protection, GPS, orientation sensor;
dimensions and weight - 151? 116? 76 mm, 800 g.

Advantages

convenient touch display;
the ability to control the camera from a smartphone;
accurate autofocus;
high resolution matrix.

Flaws

high price tag;
big weight;
the screen is not rotatable.

What is the difference between a DSLR and a mirrorless camera?

The principle of operation of a SLR camera is based on the reflection of the light flux passing through a set of lenses in the lens, in a special mirror located at an angle of 45 degrees.

After refraction in the pentaprism, the source enters the viewfinder.

Stay up to date! Mirrorless cameras do not have such a system, they are lighter in weight and simpler in terms of mechanics.

Otherwise, both varieties of these digital devices have much in common.

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Conclusion

SLR cameras allow you to take photos of the highest quality and are often used by professionals.
When choosing reflex camera it is worth paying attention to its matrix, optics, stabilization and focusing systems.
The modern fleet of digital SLRs is represented in the majority by Japanese manufacturing companies such as Canon and Nikon.
SLRs differ from mirrorless ones primarily in the presence of an optical system with a mirrorotherwise, these varieties are similar to each other.

Useful video

This video provides an overview of the best budget SLR camera:

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