Digital Single Lens Reflex (DSLR) cameras are still the pick for serious photographers, both professional and amateur enthusiast. That’s because they have interchangeable lenses, high build quality and strong manual controls, so you can get your picture just right. They have optical viewfinders (the “single lens reflex” bit refers to the mirror and prism that reflect light coming through the lens up to the viewfinder) that see exactly what the lens does so you know what the picture will look like. Some lower priced DSLRs only show 95 per cent of the image on the viewfinder, but this is close enough for many.
DSLRs usually have bigger sensors than other cameras. The exception to this is the mirrorless or Compact System camera, which uses a digital viewfinder instead of an optical one. This means there’s no need for the mirror system, saving space and weight. Many mirrorless cameras deliver as good an image as a DSLR, and are lighter and smaller. But an electronic viewfinder rarely matches an optical viewfinder. For more information on the different types of camera available, check out our buying guide.
The main brands for DSLRs are Canon and Nikon, though Pentax and Sony make decent models, too. Brands for mirrorless cameras are more varied: Panasonic, Sony and Fujifilm all excel.
Most DSLR cameras are sold without a lens, so you can pick which one to buy separately to suit you, or use compatible lenses you already have. Note that Canon lenses only fit Canon cameras, Nikon lenses only go with Nikon cameras, and so on.
1. Canon EOS 5D Mk IV: £3,499, John Lewis
Fast, responsive, powerful and versatile, the 5D has always been a real jewel and the latest edition is the most capable yet. It’s a 30.4-megapixel camera that performs amazingly in every way, such as with the autofocus, which is super precise whether you’re using the viewfinder or framing your shot on the 3.2in LCD rear screen. It has a full-frame sensor, which means the sensor is the same size as a frame of 35mm film. Like most DSLRs, it shoots video as well, here at the highest 4K resolution. GPS means you can tag your photos easily. Price is for camera body only.
2. Sony Alpha99 II: £2,999, Wex Photographic
This full-frame camera has an extremely high-resolution sensor: 42.4 megapixels. Unlike the EOS 5D, the rear screen folds out, making those overhead or low shots easier. Strictly speaking, this is not quite a DSLR as it has a translucent mirror which lets light through to the sensor without moving. This means you can shoot faster – this camera can manage 12 frames per second. Price is for camera body only.
3. Nikon D3300: £319, Amazon
This is a great choice for your first DSLR, at a keen price. Its 24.2-megapixel sensor is a size known as APS-C, which is still a decent size if no match for full-frame (like full-frame, APS-C refers to a film negative size – in this case one used in compact cameras, called Advanced Photo System). It’s fast and effective, designed to be easy to pick up and use, though there are plenty of controls when you feel you want to go beyond automatic. Video recording is limited to Full HD resolution but this still looks good. Unlike some, the LCD screen isn’t touch-sensitive and it doesn’t fold out but these are among the few faults in a highly affordable camera. A newer version, D3400, is available, with extra connectivity features but not enough else to make you choose that over this. Price includes 18-55mm lens.
4. Pentax K-1: £1,999, Amazon
Pentax’s first full-frame DSLR is not cheap but good value nonetheless. Its 36-megapixel sensor works with an effective processing engine for rich, detailed images. It has its own shake reduction system which moves the sensor to compensate for accidental movement. Video recording is Full HD rather than 4K. The optical viewfinder manages to match a full 100 per cent of what the sensor sees, though there’s also a tilting LCD screen to frame your shot on. A GPS sensor can tag your photos and Wi-fi lets you quickly transfer them to a phone or tablet. Price is for camera body only.
5. Nikon D810: £2,399, PC World
The D810 is a hefty, impressive full-frame DSLR that’s quite a bit cheaper than the Canon EOS 5D Mk IV because it’s been around for over two years now – but it still deserves to be part of our round-up. Its 36.3-megapixel sensor is detailed and precise, delivering outstanding image quality. It doesn’t shoot 4K video, only 1080P and its continuous shooting speed isn’t a match for some, but these are the downsides – if you don’t need these features then this is a highly impressive camera, ideal for hobbyists and experts. Price is for camera body only.
6. Canon EOS 800D: £869.95, John Lewis
The new EOS 800D delivers a lot for a very good price – this camera is solid, reasonably compact and attractive. There’s no 4K video recording but it’s easy to use and has fast, effective autofocus that’s especially easy to use with the touchscreen LCD to pick your focus point. The interface is inviting, even to first-time DSLR users. The 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor is a real performer even in low light. Price includes 18-55mm lens (£779 for body only).
7. Nikon D7500: £1,299, Wex Photographic
Nikon’s brand-new D7500 is a 20.9-megapixel model which comes in a small body. It has a good autofocus system and is capable of neat tricks like shooting at 8fps – so it’s good for sports or wildlife shots. The 3.2in display folds out for extra versatility and video is shot at 4K resolution. It has a sensor with a size called DX format which is similar to APS-C. Price is for camera body only.
8. Canon EOS 77D: £829.99, John Lewis
The mid-range EOS 77D uses the same 24.2-megapixel sensor found on the cheaper EOS 800D above. The sensor in both is APS-C size. Unlike the 800D, this camera has extra features such as a top-mounted LCD panel to handily show exposure settings and more. There are also more comprehensive controls on the rear of the camera. Both of these are especially useful to more experienced photographers – though the same guided help system is available on both cameras. Price is for camera body only.
The Verdict: DSLR cameras
The joy of the DSLR comes with lots of rewards: the brilliant ergonomics of the camera shape, the power that reveals itself the more you use it and the great quality of the pictures it can take. It’s chunkier and heavier than a mirrorless camera, but that’s part of the appeal, too – it’s a serious piece of kit. None better than Canon’s range, especially the EOS 5D Mk IV, though the new EOS 800D is a good entry-level camera. Nikon’s D3300, though not the newest kid on the block, is stunning value. And though it’s not cheap, the Sony Alpha A99 II is a very rewarding camera to use.
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