The Best Sony Cameras for 2026

When you buy an interchangeable lens camera (ILC), the brand you choose dictates which lenses and accessories you can use. Sony's popular E-mount mirrorless system leads the pack in lens selection, offering class-leading autofocus and picture quality. I've been reviewing E-mount cameras for nearly 15 years at PCMag and have purchased a couple for myself, so I'm very familiar with the system. Needless to say, I can help you pick the right camera if you're already invested in Sony or looking to switch over from another lens mount. Right now, the a7 IV is my top pick for most people, while I recommend the a7C II for photogs who want a smaller camera for travel, the ZV-E1 for video and vlogs, and the a7R VI for professional studio, landscape, or fine art imaging. Read on if you're interested in adding a Sony E-mount or compact camera to your kit.

Best Full-Frame Camera for Most People

Sony a7 V

Score: 4.5

Pros & Cons

• + 33MP full-frame sensor leaves room for cropping

• + Large EVF and dual articulating rear screen

• + 30fps tracking at 14-bit Raw with pre-capture mode

• + Robust subject detection with class-leading focus tracking

• + Full-width 4K60 video and Super35 4K120 slow motion

• + Works with CFe and SDXC memory cards

• + Outstanding battery life

• - 33MP full-frame sensor leaves room for cropping

• - Large EVF and dual articulating rear screen

• - 30fps tracking at 14-bit Raw with pre-capture mode

• - Robust subject detection with class-leading focus tracking

• - Full-width 4K60 video and Super35 4K120 slow motion

• - Works with CFe and SDXC memory cards

• - Outstanding battery life

Why We Picked It

The Sony a7 V is the full-frame camera to get if you're interested in starting with the Sony system or upgrading from an older a7-series camera. It offers plenty of pixels (33MP, to be precise), supports 4K120 video with 10-bit color, and features Sony's Real-Time Tracking autofocus system with eye detection for people, pets, and wildlife. It's fast, too; it focuses and captures full-quality 14-bit Raw images at 30fps.

Who It's For

Shutterbugs:The a7 V is a popular camera among photo hobbyists and enthusiasts. It is a capable choice for all genres of photography thanks to its stabilized full-frame image sensor, fantastic autofocus system, and large lens library. It doesn't matter if you prefer portraits,  wildlife photos , landscapes, or any other genre—the a7 V can handle them all.

Professionals:Dual memory card slots, a rock-solid autofocus system with 30fps capture, and rugged, weather-sealed construction make the a7 V a fine choice for professionals working in or out of the studio. The a7 V is a good choice for portraits, weddings, events, real estate, and similar applications.

Videographers:The a7 V is a capable video camera. It captures movies at up to 4K120 with 10-bit color, features a stabilized sensor to smooth out handheld shots, and includes a comprehensive set of picture profiles for cinematic color without editing, as well as flat looks for experts who want to grade color in the editing room.

Specs & Configurations

Dimensions: 3.8 by 5.1 by 3.2 inches

Weight: 1.5 lb

Type: Mirrorless

Sensor Resolution: 33 MP

Sensor Type: Partially Stacked BSI CMOS

Sensor Size: Full-Frame

Lens Mount: Sony E

Memory Card Slots: 2

Memory Card Format: SDXC (UHS-II),CFexpress (Type A)

Battery Type: Sony NP-FZ100

Minimum ISO: 50

Maximum ISO: 204800

Stabilization: 5-Axis IBIS

Display Size: 3.2 inches

Display Resolution: 2.1 million dots

Touch Screen: True

Viewfinder Type: EVF

Viewfinder Magnification: 0.78x

EVF Resolution: 3.7 million dots

Connectivity: Wi-Fi,Microphone (3.5mm),Headphone (3.5mm),USB-C,HDMI

Video Resolution: 4K

HDMI Output: 4:2:2 10-bit

Flat Profile: True

Best for Hi-Res Photos

Sony a7R VI

Score: 4.5

Pros & Cons

• + 66MP Stacked CMOS sensor

• + Up to 30fps drive with focus tracking

• + 8K30 and 4K120 video with 10-bit color

• + Smart, reliable subject detection

• + Largest, brightest viewfinder in a full-frame camera

• + Class-leading battery life

• - 66MP Stacked CMOS sensor

• - Up to 30fps drive with focus tracking

• - 8K30 and 4K120 video with 10-bit color

• - Smart, reliable subject detection

• - Largest, brightest viewfinder in a full-frame camera

• - Class-leading battery life

Why We Picked It

The a7R VI uses Sony's highest-resolution full-frame sensor to output 66MP photos and 8K30 video. It also features the best implementation of Real-Time Tracking focus yet, with AI-assisted subject recognition for people, wildlife, and vehicles. An ultra-sharp EVF, a dual-hinge LCD, and a rugged, weather-resistant body complete the package. Its Stacked CMOS sensor provides a significant speed upgrade over the a7R V, scanning quickly enough to fire off images at 30fps with minimal motion distortion, and supports full-width 4K120 video too.

Who It's For

Shutterbugs:The a7R VI's 66MP sensor is a significant draw for photo enthusiasts who want a camera that can handle large crops and still produce wall-sized prints. Add fantastic autofocus, a snappy 30fps capture rate, and the best viewfinder in its class, and you've got a camera that delivers great photos and is a lot of fun to use.

Professionals:Dual memory card slots, weather-protected construction, backlit controls, and a huge, sharp viewfinder make the a7R VI a good choice for professional photographers. The high-resolution sensor is likely overkill for event photography, but it is ideal for pros who specialize in landscape, macro, and portrait photography.

Wildlife photographers:You can't always get close to animals in the wild, either out of concern for your safety or simply because they're scared of people, so the a7R V's 66MP resolution gives you plenty of room to crop into the picture and get sharp results. Reliable animal, bird, and insect detection focus modes, along with 30fps tracking, ensure spot-on focus.

Specs & Configurations

Dimensions: 3.8 by 5.2 by 3.3 inches

Weight: 1.6 lb

Type: Mirrorless

Sensor Resolution: 66 MP

Sensor Type: Stacked CMOS

Sensor Size: Full-Frame

Lens Mount: Sony E

Memory Card Slots: 2

Memory Card Format: CFexpress (Type A),SDXC (UHS-II)

Battery Type: Sony NP-SA100

Minimum ISO: 50

Maximum ISO: 102400

Stabilization: 5-Axis IBIS

Display Size: 3.2 inches

Display Resolution: 2.1 million dots

Touch Screen: True

Viewfinder Type: EVF

Viewfinder Magnification: 0.90x

EVF Resolution: 9.44 million dots

Connectivity: Microphone (3.5mm),Headphone (3.5mm),Bluetooth,PC Sync,HDMI,USB-C

Video Resolution: 8K

HDMI Output: 4:2:2 12-bit

Flat Profile: True

Best Full-Frame Vlogging Camera

Sony ZV-E1

Score: 4.5

Pros & Cons

• + Tiny full-frame camera with stabilized sensor

• + Widescreen cinematic vlog mode

• + S-Cinetone and S-Log3 picture profiles

• + Great-looking 10-bit 4K60 video

• + 4K120 and 1080p240 slow-motion

• + Excellent stabilization system

• + Quality in-camera audio

• - Tiny full-frame camera with stabilized sensor

• - Widescreen cinematic vlog mode

• - S-Cinetone and S-Log3 picture profiles

• - Great-looking 10-bit 4K60 video

• - 4K120 and 1080p240 slow-motion

• - Excellent stabilization system

• - Quality in-camera audio

Why We Picked It

The ZV-E1 has loads of features for video creators who often work solo, including AI-assisted framing tools that help you stay in the center of a shot even when you change the camera angle. Stabilized 4K video with 10-bit color and the S-Cinetone profile, along with a cinematic vlogging mode, are additional highlights.

Who It's For

Content creators:The ZV-E1 is made squarely for vloggers and content creators, with a special eye to those who do double duty as camera operator and on-screen talent. Its 12MP sensor is tailor-made for 4K recording, and the camera supports automated framing tools to add pans and zooms to static shots so your YouTube show looks a little more like a broadcast production. The built-in three-capsule mic captures richer sound than you get with most cameras.

Specs & Configurations

Dimensions: 2.8 by 4.8 by 2.1 inches

Weight: 1.1 lb

Type: Mirrorless

Sensor Resolution: 12 MP

Sensor Type: BSI CMOS

Sensor Size: Full-Frame

Lens Mount: Sony E

Memory Card Slots: 1

Memory Card Format: SDXC (UHS-II)

Battery Type: Sony NP-FZ100

Minimum ISO: 80

Maximum ISO: 409600

Stabilization: 5-Axis IBIS

Display Size: 3 inches

Display Resolution: 1.04 million dots

Touch Screen: True

Viewfinder Type: None

Connectivity: Bluetooth,Wi-Fi,micro HDMI,USB-C,Headphone (3.5mm),Microphone (3.5mm)

Maximum Waterproof Depth: 0 feet

Video Resolution: 4K

HDMI Output: 4:2:2 10-bit

Flat Profile: True

Best Pocket Camera

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII

Score: 4.0

Pros & Cons

• + Sharp 8x zoom lens.Electronic viewfinder.1-inch sensor design.20fps capture with subject tracking.Eye detection for people and pets.Tilting touch screen.4K video with external microphone port.

• - Sharp 8x zoom lens.Electronic viewfinder.1-inch sensor design.20fps capture with subject tracking.Eye detection for people and pets.Tilting touch screen.4K video with external microphone port.

Why We Picked It

The RX100 VII is the camera to get if a pocket-friendly size is your top priority. It's a premium option, for sure, but that aligns with Sony's recent push into the high-end segment of the imaging market. The compact model offers plenty of zoom power (24-200mm F2.8-4) and a Type 1 Stacked CMOS sensor for snappy focus and blurry backgrounds. A pop-up viewfinder adds appeal for shutterbugs, while 4K recording support should attract video creators. If you're more about vlogs, however, the ZV-1 is similar in size and quite a bit cheaper.

Who It's For

Travelers:The RX100 VII's large Type 1 sensor and long 24-200mm F2.8-4 zoom lens are a perfect match for travelers who prefer to use a pocket camera over a smartphone. Its lens covers a wide range of scenes: it's wide enough for landscapes and cityscapes, and also zooms in for portraits or a trip to the zoo. And importantly for those on the go, the RX100 VII fits into a pants pocket.

Shutterbugs:Discerning photographers who typically turn up their noses at point-and-shoot cams will make an exception for the RX100 VII. Its Type 1 sensor captures clear photos in tough lighting conditions and works with the bright lens to soften backgrounds. Since it has a built-in flash, you can fill in a backlit scene or use the camera in dim interiors.

Professionals:Working photographers who don't want to always carry a large, full-frame kit should consider the RX100 VII as a camera for taking photos for fun. It competes with flagship smartphones for picture quality, but despite its pocket size, it includes features that pros want, like an electronic viewfinder and xenon flash.

Specs & Configurations

Dimensions: 2.3 by 4.0 by 1.7 inches

Weight: 10.7 oz

Type: Compact

Sensor Resolution: 20 MP

Sensor Type: BSI CMOS

Sensor Size: 1" (13.2 x 8.8mm)

Memory Card Slots: 1

Memory Card Format: SDXC (UHS-I),Memory Stick Duo

Battery Type: Sony NP-BX1

Minimum ISO: 64

Maximum ISO: 25600

35mm Equivalent (Wide): 24 mm

35mm Equivalent (Telephoto): 200 mm

Optical Zoom: 8.3 x

Stabilization: Optical

Display Size: 3 inches

Display Resolution: 921600 dots

Touch Screen: True

Viewfinder Type: EVF

Viewfinder Magnification: 0.59x

EVF Resolution: 2.36 million dots

Connectivity: Bluetooth,Wi-Fi,Microphone (3.5mm),micro USB,micro HDMI

Maximum Waterproof Depth: 0 feet

Video Resolution: 4K

HDMI Output: 4:2:2 8-bit

Flat Profile: True

Best for Sports and Fast Action Photography

Sony a9 III

Score: 4.0

Pros & Cons

• + Innovative global shutter sensor

• + Full-frame, 14-bit Raw at up 120fps

• + Overdrive and pre-capture burst modes

• + Subject recognition autofocus system

• + Large, clear viewfinder

• + Dual-angle rear display

• + Twin memory card slots with CFe (A) and SDXC support

• - Innovative global shutter sensor

• - Full-frame, 14-bit Raw at up 120fps

• - Overdrive and pre-capture burst modes

• - Subject recognition autofocus system

• - Large, clear viewfinder

• - Dual-angle rear display

• - Twin memory card slots with CFe (A) and SDXC support

Why We Picked It

Sony's a9 III, the only full-frame camera on the market with a global shutter, can read out every pixel simultaneously, allowing it to perfectly freeze action in a way that models with line-by-line readouts can't. The camera's autofocus system and processor are powerful enough to track subjects and rattle off bursts of 24MP Raw images at a staggering 120fps. A global shutter is also beneficial for flash photography, as it enables sync with strobes at a previously unmanageable 1/80,000-second speed. 4K video also completely avoids rolling shutter distortion. It's not a significant concern for photographers who require this level of speed, but keep in mind that the a9 III's dynamic range and noise characteristics are more in line with those of APS-C cameras.

Who It's For

Sports photographers:The a9 III is a specialty full-frame camera that's ideal for sports photography. Its global shutter reads all of its pixels at once, so it can freeze motion without any rolling shutter distortion. Additionally, its autofocus system supports an impressive 120fps Raw capture rate with subject tracking. Simply put, it has the speed, autofocus, and motion-stopping power that you want for capturing on-field action.

Photojournalists:If you're tasked with covering breaking news, the a9 III's mix of incredible speed and reliable autofocus is beneficial. The newest firmware also supports C2PA content credentials, allowing images to be authenticated by editors prior to publication.

Specs & Configurations

Dimensions: 3.8 by 5.4 by 3.3 inches

Weight: 1.4 lb

Type: Mirrorless

Sensor Resolution: 24 MP

Sensor Type: Stacked CMOS

Sensor Size: Full-Frame

Lens Mount: Sony E

Memory Card Slots: 2

Memory Card Format: CFexpress (Type A),SDXC (UHS-II)

Battery Type: Sony NP-FZ100

Minimum ISO: 125

Maximum ISO: 25600

Stabilization: 5-Axis IBIS

Display Size: 3.2 inches

Display Resolution: 2.1 million dots

Touch Screen: True

Viewfinder Type: EVF

Viewfinder Magnification: 0.90x

EVF Resolution: 9.44 million dots

Connectivity: Bluetooth,HDMI,USB-C,Wi-Fi,Microphone (3.5mm),Headphone (3.5mm),Gigabit Ethernet (RJ-45),micro USB,PC Sync

Video Resolution: 4K

HDMI Output: 4:2:2 16-bit

Flat Profile: True

Best Do-It-All Camera

Sony a1 II

Score: 4.0

Pros & Cons

• + 50MP full-frame with minimal rolling shutter

• + Up to 30fps subject tracking

• + Pre-capture at full Raw quality

• + Large EVF with smooth refresh

• + Smart focus system recognizes and tracks subjects

• + Up to 8K30 and 4K120 video

• - 50MP full-frame with minimal rolling shutter

• - Up to 30fps subject tracking

• - Pre-capture at full Raw quality

• - Large EVF with smooth refresh

• - Smart focus system recognizes and tracks subjects

• - Up to 8K30 and 4K120 video

Why We Picked It

The Sony a1 II is the company's flagship hybrid photo-video camera and the top performer for creators who need both high-resolution 50MP stills and 8K30 video. Its Stacked CMOS sensor reads out quickly to minimize rolling shutter. Sony's subject recognition and real-time tracking smart focus system work together to enable 30fps subject tracking with full RAW quality for stills and up to 4K120 for slow-motion video.

Who It's For

Professionals:As Sony's flagship camera, the a1 II is built with the needs of professional photographers in mind. It features a large, clear viewfinder, dual memory card slots, and weather protection, allowing you to use it both in and out of the studio. With its 50MP resolution, 30fps capture with focus, and 8K video, the a1 II can handle almost any job.

Wildlife and sports photographers:Few cameras deliver the combination of speed (30fps), room to crop (50MP), and autofocus performance you get with the a1 II. It can track people and animals with ease and is compatible with an array of telephoto lenses.

Videographers:The a1 II records at up to 8K30 (with 4K120 slow motion) with 10-bit color and minimal rolling shutter distortion. It supports lower resolutions and slower frame rates, too, plus it can output 12-bit Raw or ProRes footage to an external recorder.

Specs & Configurations

Dimensions: 3.8 by 5.4 by 3.3 inches

Weight: 1.4 lb

Type: Mirrorless

Sensor Resolution: 50 MP

Sensor Type: Stacked CMOS

Sensor Size: Full-Frame

Lens Mount: Sony E

Memory Card Slots: 2

Memory Card Format: CFexpress (Type A),SDXC (UHS-II)

Battery Type: Sony NP-FZ100

Minimum ISO: 50

Maximum ISO: 102400

Stabilization: 5-Axis IBIS

Display Size: 3 inches

Display Resolution: 2.1 million dots

Touch Screen: True

Viewfinder Type: EVF

Viewfinder Magnification: 0.90x

EVF Resolution: 9.4 million dots

Connectivity: Wi-Fi,Microphone (3.5mm),micro USB,Headphone (3.5mm),Bluetooth,PC Sync,HDMI,USB-C,2.5Gbps Ethernet (RJ-45)

Video Resolution: 8K

HDMI Output: 4:2:2 12-bit

Flat Profile: True

Best for Advanced Amateurs and Influencers

Sony a6700

Score: 4.0

Pros & Cons

• + Compact body style with EVF

• + 5-axis stabilized sensor

• + Swing-out LCD for video and selfies

• + High-capacity Z series battery

• + Nearly full-width, 10-bit recording at up to 4K60

• + 4K120 slow-motion

• + Improved menu system

• - Compact body style with EVF

• - 5-axis stabilized sensor

• - Swing-out LCD for video and selfies

• - High-capacity Z series battery

• - Nearly full-width, 10-bit recording at up to 4K60

• - 4K120 slow-motion

• - Improved menu system

Why We Picked It

The Sony a6700 is the best APS-C sensor model available because it goes beyond the basics to accommodate both enthusiast photographers and video creators. We like its compact, weather-protected body, and its corner EVF works especially well with smaller lenses. The 26MP BSI CMOS sensor supports subject tracking and intelligent subject recognition, enabling 11fps tracking, as well as capturing 10-bit 4K60 video with in-body stabilization.

Who It's For

Shutterbugs:Hobbyists will appreciate the a6700's compact size, electronic viewfinder, and physical controls. With 26MP resolution and an 11fps burst rate plus reliable autofocus, the camera handles everything from landscapes to sports. Picture quality is great, and there are countless lenses available in E-mount.

Sports and wildlife photographers:The a6700 features a great autofocus system and a decent 11fps burst rate, making it a good option for capturing photos of animals in the wild or competitive sports.

Content creators:Vloggers will appreciate the a6700's forward-facing screen, microphone and headphone jacks, stabilized sensor, and 4K60 video engine. It's a good option for recording on the go or in the studio.

Specs & Configurations

Dimensions: 2.7 by 4.8 by 2.5 inches

Weight: 1.1 lb

Type: Mirrorless

Sensor Resolution: 26 MP

Sensor Type: BSI CMOS

Sensor Size: APS-C

Lens Mount: Sony E

Memory Card Slots: 1

Memory Card Format: SDXC (UHS-II)

Battery Type: Sony NP-FZ100

Minimum ISO: 50

Maximum ISO: 102400

Stabilization: 5-Axis IBIS

Display Size: 3 inches

Display Resolution: 1.03 million dots

Touch Screen: True

Viewfinder Type: EVF

Viewfinder Magnification: 0.71x

EVF Resolution: 2.36 million dots

Connectivity: Bluetooth,Wi-Fi,USB-C,Microphone (3.5mm),Headphone (3.5mm),micro HDMI

Maximum Waterproof Depth: 0 feet

Video Resolution: 4K

HDMI Output: 4:2:2 10-bit

Flat Profile: True

Best Swappable Lens Camera for Beginners

Sony a6100

Score: 4.0

Pros & Cons

• + Light and compact.Built-in EVF.Tilting touch LCD.Superlative autofocus.Loads of lens choices.Up to 11fps Raw capture.4K video.

• - Light and compact.Built-in EVF.Tilting touch LCD.Superlative autofocus.Loads of lens choices.Up to 11fps Raw capture.4K video.

Why We Picked It

The a6100 is a capable camera for family photographers and shutterbugs who are just getting started with a swappable lens model. It focuses just as quickly as the midrange a6400 , but has a less premium build and cuts back on some video features. Despite those compromises, you still get tracking focus at 11fps, Raw imaging, and 4K30 recording.

Who It's For

Beginners:Photographers looking to graduate from a smartphone should consider the a6100; it's a great option for a first camera. It achieves good results in automatic mode and lets you take manual control over exposure when you're ready. Plus, it works with a huge library of lenses.

Family photographers:The a6100's fast focus, built-in flash, and automatic mode make it a good choice for capturing scenes at family events and holidays.

Specs & Configurations

Dimensions: 2.6 by 4.7 by 2.3 inches

Weight: 14 oz

Type: Mirrorless

Sensor Resolution: 24 MP

Sensor Type: CMOS

Sensor Size: APS-C (24 x 16mm)

Lens Mount: Sony E

Memory Card Slots: 1

Memory Card Format: SDXC (UHS-I)/Memory Stick Duo

Battery Type: Sony NP-FW50

Minimum ISO: 100

Maximum ISO: 51200

Stabilization: None

Display Size: 3 inches

Display Resolution: 921600 dots

Touch Screen: True

Viewfinder Type: EVF

Viewfinder Magnification: 0.7x

EVF Resolution: 1.44 million dots

Connectivity: Bluetooth,Wi-Fi,micro USB,micro HDMI,Microphone (3.5mm)

Maximum Waterproof Depth: 0 feet

Video Resolution: 4K

HDMI Output: 4:2:2 8-bit

Flat Profile: False

Best Full-Frame Travel Camera

Sony a7C II

Score: 4.0

Pros & Cons

• + Stabilized full-frame sensor

• + Impressively small body style

• + Magnesium build with dust and splash protection

• + Best-in-class autofocus system

• + Long battery life

• - Stabilized full-frame sensor

• - Impressively small body style

• - Magnesium build with dust and splash protection

• - Best-in-class autofocus system

• - Long battery life

Why We Picked It

The Sony a7C II puts the imaging engine of the full-size a7 IV into a smaller, more travel-friendly body. It maintains many of the larger camera's features, including a stabilized 33MP BSI CMOS imager and a 10-bit 4K60 video engine, and offers the latest version of Sony's Real-Time Tracking system. The rangefinder-style body's corner viewfinder may not appeal to everyone, but a long-lasting battery and weather protection make this camera a sensible choice for world travelers. Don't forget about the a7CR if you want a similar camera with more pixels—it swaps the 33MP chip out for a 60MP sensor.

Who It's For

Travelers:The a7C II is one of the smallest full-frame cameras available, and it also includes weather protection and class-leading battery life. It's a great camera to use when you want to pack light, especially when paired with a small prime or compact zoom lens.

Shutterbugs:Photographers who prefer a smaller camera will love the a7C II. Its stabilized full-frame sensor captures gorgeous photos, and it has the viewfinder, manual controls, and lens selection that infuse enthusiasm into photo enthusiasts.

Content creators:Vloggers who want a full-frame will like the a7C II. It records at 4K60 with sensor stabilization, includes headphone and microphone jacks, and features a forward-facing screen.

Specs & Configurations

Dimensions: 2.8 by 4.9 by 2.5 inches

Weight: 18.1 oz

Type: Mirrorless

Sensor Resolution: 33 MP

Sensor Type: BSI CMOS

Sensor Size: Full-Frame

Lens Mount: Sony E

Memory Card Slots: 1

Memory Card Format: SDXC (UHS-II)

Battery Type: Sony NP-FZ100

Minimum ISO: 50

Maximum ISO: 204800

Stabilization: 5-Axis IBIS

Display Size: 3 inches

Display Resolution: 1.04 million dots

Touch Screen: True

Viewfinder Type: EVF

Viewfinder Magnification: 0.7x

EVF Resolution: 2.4 million dots

Connectivity: Bluetooth,Wi-Fi,micro HDMI,Microphone (3.5mm),Headphone (3.5mm),USB-C

Maximum Waterproof Depth: 0 feet

Video Resolution: 4K

HDMI Output: 4:2:2 10-bit

Flat Profile: True

Best for Vloggers on a Budget

Sony ZV-E10 II

Score: 4.0

Pros & Cons

• + 10-bit 4K60 video recording

• + Clear three-capsule stereo microphone

• + Reliable autofocus with vlogging features

• + Background Defocus button for one-touch bokeh

• + Good battery life

• + Supports external mics and headphone monitoring

• + Works as a USB webcam

• - 10-bit 4K60 video recording

• - Clear three-capsule stereo microphone

• - Reliable autofocus with vlogging features

• - Background Defocus button for one-touch bokeh

• - Good battery life

• - Supports external mics and headphone monitoring

• - Works as a USB webcam

Why We Picked It

The ZV-E10 II is built specifically for content creators and vloggers. It features an APS-C sensor that records at up to 4K60, a clear three-capsule microphone, and several special capture modes designed to help you produce better-looking video for your YouTube channel, even if you're not a camera expert. Since it supports interchangeable lenses, you can choose one that best suits your channel.

Who It's For

Content creators:Up-and-coming vloggers will like the ZV-E10 II's video-first design and affordable price. It includes a good sounding microphone (and works with external mics), and has easy controls to soften backgrounds and change color tones.

Specs & Configurations

Dimensions: 2.7 by 4.7 by 2.1 inches

Weight: 13.3 oz

Type: Mirrorless

Sensor Resolution: 26 MP

Sensor Type: BSI CMOS

Sensor Size: APS-C

Lens Mount: Sony E

Memory Card Slots: 1

Memory Card Format: SDXC (UHS-II)

Battery Type: Sony NP-FZ100

Minimum ISO: 50

Maximum ISO: 102400

Stabilization: Digital

Display Size: 3.0 inches

Display Resolution: 1.04 million dots

Touch Screen: True

Viewfinder Type: None

Connectivity: Bluetooth,USB-C,Wi-Fi,micro HDMI,Microphone (3.5mm),Headphone (3.5mm)

Video Resolution: 4K

HDMI Output: 4:2:2 10-bit

Flat Profile: True

Sony's Camera Line

Sony categorizes its swappable lens cameras into several distinct families. The a6000 series offers consumer-friendly prices and sticks with the APS-C sensor size. Sony tunes its ZV vlogging cameras so non-pros can get good video results. Meanwhile, advanced amateurs and pros with better skill levels can look to the a1, a7, or a9 full-frame series.

Finally, serious video creators should consider the FX cinema line. PCMag hasn't reviewed any FX cameras, but they share most of their technology with the Sony cameras we cover, which are housed in camera bodies better suited for a production environment.

All of the company's current swappable lens models use the same E-mount, allowing you to switch lenses between different camera body styles. Flashes are also cross-compatible, including with some fixed-lens models.

Sony is currently going through a transition period for smartphone connectivity. Older models connect using the long-running Imaging Edge smartphone app (for Android and iOS). But newer models offer support for the Sony Creators' App (also available for Android and iOS). If you have a stable of Sony bodies, you might need to install a couple of different apps on your phone for on-the-go transfers and wireless remote control.

Alternatives to Sony

If you're not dead set on a Sony camera, check out our recommendations for the best DSLR and mirrorless cameras from any manufacturer.

We also have buying guides for Canon , Fuji , L-mount , Micro Four Thirds , and Nikon lenses, as well as roundups of the best Canon and Nikon cameras.

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