The decision between a DSLR and mirrorless camera is not as simple as it seems. Even though there are many reasons to purchase a DSLR camera, there are also good reasons for investing in a Mirrorless camera.
There are fewer DSLRs being produced today, but still a lot are. DSLRs are the pinnacle in this technology. A DSLR today is the result of a decade’s worth of technological improvements.
Mirrorless cameras are also a far cry from the humble beginnings of their humble origins, when they were viewed as a camera for beginners (in some respects, this has been reversed). What used to be called compact system camera (CSCs) are now the focus of almost every traditional brand except Pentax. Mirrorless cameras are still in their early stages of technological development, which is a great thing.
What you need as a photographer will determine which side of the DSLR vs. mirrorless debate you take. Do you want a camera that can do the job well, with a large selection of lenses and a long-lasting battery? Do you want something small, light and fast that can shoot both stills and video?
Let’s explore mirrorless technology before we discuss the pros and cons between DSLR cameras and mirrorless cameras.
- The Best Professional DSLRs
What is a Mirrorless Camera?
The name is the clue. A mirrorless camera does not have a reflective surface. The image that you see in the viewfinder of a DSLR is reflected by the mirror placed in front the sensor. The mirror moves physically out of the way when you press the shutter, allowing light to reach the sensor. Mirrorless cameras do not have a mirror. The light is reflected off the sensor and onto the lens. This image can be viewed in real time on the LCD of your camera or, if one is available, within the electronic viewfinder.
DSLRs use the same mirror technology as film cameras. It works extremely well because of this. Mirrorless technology, however, has proven to be a great improvement over DSLR technology. The two most important are speed and camera shaking. You can imagine that when you shoot at slower shutter speeds, the movement of the mirror inside the camera can cause vibrations. By removing the mirror, cameras can run faster.
- Best beginner mirrorless cameras
- Best professional mirrorless cameras
DSLR cameras vs Mirrorless Cameras: Key Differences
We have discussed the role of the mirror in DSLRs. Let’s see what happens when the mirror is removed.
Size
Mirrorless cameras are smaller and lighter because the manufacturers don’t need to include a mirror, which is a large component. Photojournalists, and especially street photographers, will find that a lighter, sleeker kit is more convenient when they are on the move for extended periods of time. The kit is also less noticeable, attracting less attention.