Entry-Level Mirrorless Cameras, 2014 edition

Entry-level mirrorless cameras provide a nice middle ground between fixed-lens point-and-shoots and lower-end DSLRs. It's an ever-growing category with options for photographers of varying skill level and intentions. The common factors in this class are the huge step up in image quality over most compacts and smartphone cameras and the friendly interfaces.

The story of the entry-level mirrorless category is a tale of sensor sizes. Sony, Fujifilm and Samsung's NX3000 use APS-C-sized sensors. Nikon's 1-series, and the Samsung NX Mini use a 1"-type sensor that's considerably larger than that of most enthusiast compacts. It's the increase in sensor size that makes much of the image quality benefits of these cameras possible - larger sensors are able to gather more light and generally produce less-noisy and higher dynamic range images. Pentax's tiny QS1 is an outlier - it has a 1/1.7"-type sensor, as found in many advanced point-and-shoots.
Sensor size is not the only thing that matters though; for many, connectivity is king when considering an entry-level mirrorless camera. The majority of the cameras here can be used in conjunction with a smartphone, to share instantly with the world. Some do it better than others, and some don't do it at all.
Another important factor to consider when purchasing an entry-level mirrorless camera is the quality of the kit lens included. A fast kit lens (smaller F-number), with a wider range of focal lengths will do the camera you choose more justice than a slower lens, or one with a lesser zoom range. This is true regardless of the size of the camera’s sensor. Here are the cameras we've identified current entry-level mirrorless models:

• Fujifilm X-M1
• Fujifilm X-A1
• Sony a3000
• Samsung NX3000
• Samsung NX Mini
• Pentax Q-S1
• Nikon 1 S2
• Nikon 1 J4
• Olympus Pen E-PL7
• Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1

Beginners who are looking for better-than-smartphone image quality will definitely find it in this class, and may also like how lightweight and portable these cameras are as compared to a DSLR. They make great cameras for everyday, good light shooting and will generally take better low light images than a phone or point-and-shoot. 

The way we see it there are two kinds of users who will consider cameras in this class - those who are looking for a point-and-shoot experience with better image quality, in a body that will also play nice with their smartphone, and those who are looking for a step-up camera with which to learn the ins-and-outs of photography without going all the way up to a DSLR.

Fujifilm X-M1

The Fujifilm X-M1 carries the same 16MP X-Trans APS-C sensor as Fuji's more advanced X-series cameras - a chip we've praised for its excellent image quality. Sensor aside, the X-M1 is identical to the Fujifilm X-A1. Neither have a viewfinder but both offer a tilting 3.0" rear LCD panel.
The X-M1 is sold as a kit with the 16-50mm F3.5-5.6 lens, which will give users a 24-75mm equivalent angle of view. We found the lens to be quite sharp in use. Like other X-Trans Fujifilm cameras the X-M1 produces relatively noise-free JPEG images even up to ISO 3200 - very good indeed for this class. It turns out images with great default color and exposure, and JPEG processing is so good that many users won't feel the need to shoot Raw.   

Although it's a step down from the X-E2, the X-M1 offers a number of features that enthusiasts will be pleased to find at this level. The twin dials are useful for anyone who wants to take control quickly over their exposure, and the tilting LCD is handy when it comes to creative high and low-angle composition and video recording. Those moving up to the X-M1 from a point-and-shoot likely won't mind the lack of viewfinder, and enthusiasts who don't consider LCD-only shooting a deal breaker will be happy with the 920k dot screen.  

Wi-Fi connectivity is an option in this camera, though it is limited to pushing photos to smart devices and computers. It

works reliably, we just wish there was some way to control the camera remotely. 1080p HD video capture is also limited, in terms of manual capture, to aperture priority only.  Straight out of camera JPEGs are good, and a versatile in-camera Raw conversion option lets you re-process files if you want to try different looks without resorting to editing on a computer.

Overall the X-M1 is a solidly built, thoughtfully engineered camera with several useful features that are hard to find in this class. Enthusiasts who don't mind the loss of the viewfinder will find a lot to like in the inexpensive X-M1.

What we like:

• Excellent JPEG image quality
• Tilting LCD
• Wi-Fi connectivity

What we don't:

• Occasional overexposure
• Limited control in video mode
• One of the priciest in the class

Fujifilm X-A1

 The Fujifilm X-A1 is nearly the same camera as the Fujifilm X-M1 except for one key detail - it uses a 16MP APS-C sensor with a traditional Bayer array, rather than X-Trans. Other than that, the two are nearly identical.

One advantage this sensor gives the X-A1 over the X-M1 is wider support for its Raw files. If you are undecided between the two, your ultimate decision may boil down to whether you prefer the subtle differences in image quality coming off the two sensors.

Like the X-M1 the X-A1 has no EVF but does include a tilting high-res 3.0" LCD. ISOs max out at 25,6000 and a burst rate of 5.6 fps should be ample for most.

The X-A1 is sold as a kit with the 16-50mm F3.5-5.6, offering a usefully wide 24mm equivalent angle of view and, as kit lenses go, it's respectably sharp. The twin dials are a rarity at this level and will suit anyone wanting a camera to grow into and learn to take control of. The articulated LCD is useful for getting creative with one's compositions during both still and video capture.

On top of its core features the X-A1 includes Wi-Fi for sharing images which works well but is limited, with no option

for remote control. There's also 1080p HD video recording, but manual control is limited to aperture priority only. Overall the X-A1 is a very appealing camera. Beginners will find this camera gives them lots of room to grow and learn, with good JPEG image quality; budding photographers will also find this camera meets many, if not all of their shooting needs.

What we like:

• Excellent JPEG image quality
• Tilting LCD
• Wi-Fi connectivity

What we don't:

• Occasional overexposure
• Limited control in video mode
• Slightly plasticky build

Sony a3000

The Sony a3000 looks and feels like a small DSLR but has all the trappings of a mirrorless camera, built around a 20.1MP APS-C sensor, Sony E-mount and a built-in electronic viewfinder. It's pitched as a less expensive alternative to a Nikon or Canon entry-level DSLR, like the D3300 and the Rebel SL1. Despite its looks and pop-up flash, the total package feels (and is) much cheaper. That 3.0" rear LCD only offers 230k-dot resolution and the electronic viewfinder is comparatively low-res, too.

The a3000 produces good looking JPEGs with pleasing color albeit with slightly over-saturated reds. Just keep an eye on exposure - we’ve found that it tends to overexpose in tricky lighting situations. Image quality at higher ISO’s is solid, and on par or better than the comparable models in this class. Raw images over ample latitude for adjustments.

Users will find the LCD and viewfinder disappointing though, especially if they are comparing it to the LCDs and optical viewfinders found on entry-level Canon or Nikons. And the lack of an eye-level sensor to change between viewfinder and LCD is unfortunate. The a3000 uses the old-style Sony NEX menu system that might come across as friendly and approachable to beginners, but may frustrate more advanced users looking for quicker access to controls. Overall build quality is pretty low, with the a3000's plastic chassis feeling quite cheap.

Overall, the a3000's standout feature it probably its price. It’s one of the least expensive cameras in this round-up, yet

offers one of the largest and best sensors. Though it offers no Wi-Fi, which may be a deal-breaker for some. It does covers all of the basics and adds a few nice touches like dual stereo microphones for an overall value that's hard to argue with - if you can overlook some serious shortcomings in certain areas of specification and build quality. Those deciding between it and a traditional DSLR should decide if the low price outweighs the cheap feel and mediocre EVF and LCD.

What we like:

• Very attractive price
• Proven 20.1MP APS-C sensor
• Good stock Sony features like Sweep Panorama

What we don't:

• Poor build quality
• LCD and EVF offer low resolution
• No Wi-Fi

Samsung NX3000

The NX3000 is Samsung’s entry-level NX camera, but with a 20.3MP APS-C sensor it is more than capable of taking on considerably more expensive cameras. Designed to be slim and compact, the camera offers a 3" LCD that flips out and flips up to stand above the body facing forwards – so selfie shooters can easily see exactly what they are shooting. A ‘wink shutter’ feature will even trigger the shutter if you blink at the camera. Seriously.

The camera comes with either the 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 standard zoom or the 20-50 f/3.6-5.6 zoom. Of course the camera is compatible with all the lenses in Samsung’s broad optical line-up. It also ships with a copy of Adobe Lightroom 5. 

With no built-in flash the NX3000 is supplied with a tiny external flash unit that sits in the hotshoe – a hotshoe that can also be used to house much larger and more powerful flashguns. 

The NX3000’s sensor is the same as that found in the NX300 and NX30. We have not fully tested the NX3000 yet, but in our NX30 test, we found JPEG image processing tended to be a bit sloppy, especially in low light. This is something that could improve, in time, with firmware updates. Raw images on the other hand were decent, giving us an ample amount of latitude to recover shadow tone.

While ideal for beginners, the Samsung NX3000 provides plenty of growing room, with advanced shooting modes and

a comprehensive specification. Multiple automatic settings are supplemented by fully manual operation, a 5fps top drive speed, ISO settings of up to 25,600 and HD video recording. Connectivity is provided via Wi-Fi and NFC, and the camera can be controlled via a smartphone.

What we like:

• Flip-up LCD
• Well-implemtned Wi-Fi
• Includes Adobe Lightroom

What we don't:

• No built-in flash
• Cheap-feeling plastic body
• Uses microSD cards

Samsung NX Mini

Samsung has a history of trying something unexpected every once in a while. This is the company that gave us the first cameras to run full Android operating systems with LTE connectivity. It was in a similar spirit that the Korean manufacturer introduced the Samsung NX Mini. Using a BSI 20.5MP CMOS sensor of the 1"-type, it nabs the title of 'world's slimmest interchangeable lens camera'.

The NX Mini gives the world yet another lens mount - ’NX-M’. There are only three lenses in the range at present - a 9mm F3.5 (24mm equivalent) prime, 9-27mm F3.5-5.6 (24.3-73mm equivalent) collapsable zoom, and a 17mm F1.8 (46mm equivalent) prime. All three are very good (the primes, particularly). A NX mount adapter is sold separately for $149.99.  

Samsung engineers have clearly put an emphasis on the 'slim' aspect of the camera. It's only 22.5mm thick, and with the diminutive 9mm prime it's well within the bounds of jacket-pocketability. The body itself is the size of a compact point-and-shoot, and the lenses inspire the same kind of 'those can't possibly be real lenses!' reaction that the Pentax Q-S1 and its optics did when we first laid eyes on them.

Images captured in Raw mode offer ample latitude. Unfortunately JPEG handling tended to be aggressive, with smudging of fine detail by noise reduction, at medium and high ISOs. Simply put, to get the most out of this camera, you need to shoot Raw.

It may be a fresh face, but the Samsung NX Mini isn't the only super-small interchangeable lens camera game in town.

Nikon's 1 series uses a 1" sensor and proprietary lens mount, while Panasonic offers the GM1 and GM5 with a larger Four Thirds sensor and Micro Four Thirds mount. The intrepid Pentax QS1 and its predecessor, the Q7, which came before them all, uses a 1/1.7" sensor - smaller than any of the above.

What we like:

• Compact body with familiar controls
• Responsive touchscreen
• Highly pocketable

What we don't:

• Slow image processor
• Difficult manual focusing
• May be too small for some users

Pentax QS1

The Pentax QS1 offers some cosmetic updates over predecessor Q-mount cameras, but the internals like a 12MP 1/1.7-inch BSI CMOS have remained largely unchanged from the previous Q7 model.

JPEG Image quality in fair-light conditions is good, with solid color renditions. Default sharpening is not overly aggressive. As should be expected with any smaller-sensor camera that captures less light than a larger-sensor counterpart, image quality dips as you increase your ISO. Still, the default noise reduction setting actually did a very good job in most scenarios.

Stand-out specs includes a high ISO of 12,800, 5fps burst, sensor-shift image stabilization and Full HD video capture at 1080p 30fps. The QS1 ships with the kit 5-15mm f/2.8-4.5 zoom lens, which offers an equivalent field of view to a 27.5-83mm lens. It also accepts all Q-mount lenses of which there are eight as of the time of writing.

The Q-S1 is available in 40 different color combinations and offers classic, minimalist styling, in a tiny, remarkably-cute body. Its small sensor means it's outclassed in this company when it comes to image quality, but it's very small and offers a lot of direct manual controls. Features like a hotshoe, pop-up flash, direct white balance and ISO button, as well as a quick dial, give this camera some appeal. If only it had Wi-Fi.

What we like:

• Extremely compact size
• Sensor-based IS
• Rear command dial 

What we don't:

• Sensor is significantly smaller than the other cameras in class
• No Wi-Fi connectivity
• Few compatible lenses

Nikon 1 S2

The Nikon 1 S2 is a compact, inexpensive interchangeable lens that uses the company's 1 System (CX-format) lenses. It sits under the Nikon 1 J4 in the company’s lineup. What sets Nikon's 1-series cameras apart from most of the others in this roundup are their fast hybrid AF systems that utilize on-sensor phase detection to understand subject distance and, in turn, acquire faster focus.

The S1 is built around a 14.2MP CMOS sensor and ultra-fast hybrid AF system, allowing for 20fps continuous shooting with autofocus. Other features include a 3" 480k dot LCD, 1/16000 sec maximum shutter speed, 1080/60p video recording, and optional Wi-Fi.

Not much larger than a point-and-shoot, the S2 is a reliable camera in good lighting conditions. Like its predecessor though - and in fact all 1-series cameras - it struggles in lower-light situations, with noise becoming more of a factor than we’d expect from a camera with a physically larger sensor.

Unlike the J4, the S2 does not offer Wi-Fi connectivity or have the option to capture 120fps video at 720p. It can capture full HD video at 60p, though.

The design of the S2 is fairly minimal, with only a handful of physical buttons. It ships with a 11-27.5mm kit lens, which offers a potentially limiting 30-74mm equivalent field-of-view range. Of all the cameras in the round-up this one is most geared toward those who want the simplest shooting experience. For its price though, the incredible burst rate and

solid AF will please anyone who wants a basic camera for capturing fast action, like a child’s soccer game, in good lighting conditions anyway.

What we like:

• Small and lightweight
• Excellent continuous focus utilizing hybrid AF
• Fast burst rate

What we don't:

• Smaller sensor than many of its competitors
• No built-in Wi-Fi
• No hotshoe

Nikon 1 J4

Nikon’s 1 Series is all about tiny cameras that take tiny lenses and which shoot at very high frame rates. The Wi-Fi equipped Nikon 1 J4 sits below the more advanced Nikon 1 V3, and offers many of the same features as well as the same sensor. The idea of these models is that they are as small as a compact camera, but they produce better image quality via their larger sensors – in this case a 1"-type CX-format CMOS sensor with 18 million pixels. What also sets Nikon's 1-series cameras apart from most of the others in this roundup are their fast hybrid AF systems that utilize on-sensor phase detection to understand subject distance and, in turn, acquire faster focus.

"For those who want to capture fast-moving subjects it's a great choice"

An extremely fast image processor allows users to shoot at up to 20 frames per second at full resolution with AF, and at up to 60fps with the AF turned off – so the J4 is an ideal camera for casual sports and action, in addition to its more everyday uses. Its top shutter speed of 1/16,000 sec (courtesy of an electronic shutter) is also quite remarkable at this price point. 

Image quality is good, though limited by the J4’s 1” sensor size, especially when compared to APS-C and Four Thirds sensors found in rivals. We did have some qualms, though, especially with JPEGs coming out of the J4. Shadow noise and noise reduction smearing of fine details is visible in JPEGs captured even at lower ISOs. Raw shooters will fair a little bit better; detail lost to NR can be recovered, though the shadows offer little latitude for adjustments.

Despite the downfalls of the J4's sensor size, this camera is a phenomenal option if capturing action is your primary aim.

Parents take note: 20 fps burst with continuous AF is not just class leading, but would be considered impressive even by high-end DSLR-standards. The camera is compatible with Nikon’s growing line of 1 Series lenses that comprises everything from 28mm equivalent wide angle zooms to telephotos of up to 810mm. 

With a 3" touch screen, built-in Wi-Fi, an ISO range of 160-12,800 and a new improved autofocus system that uses 105 phase detection points across the frame, the Nikon 1 J4 is a very capable and flexible little camera.

What we like:

• Compact size
• 20 fps burst mode w/continuous AF utilizing hybrid AF
• Responsive performance

What we don't:

• Noisy sensor, too much noise reduction
• No hotshoe
• Uses microSD cards

Olympus E-PL7

Before the popular OM-D line of Olympus Micro Four Thirds cameras arrived on the scene, there was the Pen line.The Olympus E-PL7 is the sixth mirrorless camera in Olympus’ Pen lineup, and looks more like a rangefinder than an SLR (OM-D cameras tend to be more SLR-looking).  

While the E-PL7 offers no electronic viewfinder, it does feature a capable 16MP Four Thirds CMOS sensor, a top-plate control dial, hotshoe, a redesigned shutter mechanism (previous models had issues with image shake due to shutter vibration), 8fps bursts, a tilting 1.04m dot touch LCD, Olympus’ latest TruePice VI image processor and 3-axis in-body image stabilization. 

Other features like Wi-Fi connectivity, focus peaking and an 81-point AF system make this camera competitive in the class. However, for the price, there are ample mirrorless cameras available that will offer features like an EVF, a larger sensor and better AF, for the same cost or less. If you simply want something you can point and shoot with, with some classic styling, the E-PL7 is a solid option, but for a mirrorless camera with more pro-level controls and features, look elsewhere. 

What we like:

• 3-Axis sensor-based IS works with all lenses
• Camera is fairly customizable 
• Wi-Fi connectivity 

What we don't:

• No EVF
• Only one control dial on top
• Controls feel like that of a compact, not a mirrorless camera 

Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1 is a pocketable mirrorless camera with a 16MP Live MOS Micro Four Thirds sensor, built-in Wi-FI, 3-inch 1.04m dot touch LCD and a magnesium-alloy shell. 
We’re fond of this camera for its incredibly-small size and lightweight design. Its Wi-Fi connectivity is amongst the most reliable, and its very good touchscreen helps with the lack of physical buttons. 

We were a bit disappointed in the camera’s battery life, rated to just 230 shots per charge. And we found JPEG noise reduction at higher ISOs to be on the sloppy side. That said, image quality at lower ISOs is very good. 

Overall, if it’s a very small, portable ILC you are after, the GM1 is a solid option (though personally we’d take the GM5 over it, just for the built-in EVF). But opting for a slightly larger body will result in more control options, and likely a better overall handling/shooting experience.

What we like:

• Incredibly small design
• Very good image quality, especially at lower ISOs
• Good touchscreen

What we don't:

• Poor battery life
• Poor noise reduction at higher ISOs
• Small controls can be fiddly 

Which camera should I buy?

The truth about this class is that all of these cameras take perfectly good pictures in good light, with overall low light (high ISO) image quality scaling with sensor size (bigger is better). In low light, you can expect the APS-C cameras to outperform the 1" cameras, which in turn will outperform the Pentax Q-S1 with its smaller 1/1.7"-type sensor. Every camera and/or lens that comes as a part of the kit in this roundup has some form of image stabilization, which will help your low light photography.
You'll want to consider other differentiators that set these cameras apart as well: hybrid AF systems promise faster AF, faster burst rates are better for capturing that decisive moment, Wi-Fi gives you more connectivity, and accessory ports give you more versatility. And don't forget handling preferences - you very well may find some of these cameras more pleasant to use, and easier to grow into, than others. Do keep in mind that that if you don't plan on ever swapping the (kit) lens on these cameras, or making large prints, you may find the differences between these cameras to be, well, not exactly earth-shattering.

Best entry-level mirrorless camera: Fujifilm X-M1

The Fujifilm X-M1 remains our top pick in this category for the second year in a row. JPEG image quality is excellent, with very little noise, until the highest sensitivities. It offers users a great body to grow into, functioning well on full-auto mode, as well as when set to manual modes. External controls are plentiful and the inclusion of Wi-Fi and a quality kit lens make this camera a great option for photographers of a variety of skill levels.

Best mirrorless camera for fast action: Nikon 1 J4

20 fps burst with continuous AF. 20 fps burst with continuous AF. Oh, we said that twice? That's because despite the quirks of the Nikon 1 J4, nothing comes close to matching its fast burst rate and its excellent hybrid autofocus system (it's the only camera in this roundup with phase-detection AF sensors that can understand subject distance for faster focus). This is the ideal soccer mom/dad camera to shoot pictures of your babies, kids, or pets (if you can tolerate a lower burst rate and more camera for a bit more money, do consider the very capable Sony a6000).

Best budget mirrorless camera: Sony a3000

The Sony a3000 is a peculiar camera. It looks like a DSLR, but contains no mirror. It feels cheap, has a low-budget EVF and LCD, but tucks an impressive and capable 20.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor right in the middle of all that plastic. It is by far the most budget-friendly camera in this roundup, but also has one of the largest sensors. If you can get past its ergonomic downfalls, you’ll still be getting a lot of camera for your buck.