What’s the Best Camera in 2025? Guide to Finding the Right Camera For You

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Not many weeks go by when I'm not asked “What is the best camera?” or "what camera would you recommend?" The problem is there no straight forward answer. So I thought I'd get something on paper (or screen!) that might help those searching and struggling to find a definitive solution.

Camera ranges have never been more diverse and finding the right camera for the right job is arguably more important than ever. And, I’ll admit, I love geeking out now and then while pondering the next model to add to my collection. Purely in the  work purposes, of course!

I have also spent more than a decade helping thousands of people get to grips with their cameras, so I am used to working with systems from a huge range of different brands, including all the household names as well as some of the more obscure. This has helped me develop an understanding of the technology available, the features offered and the user friendliness of the cameras available on the market.

If you enjoy the advice and find it helps, please consider buying via the links provided below, they don't cost you anything and could go towards buying me a coffee (which the not-so-secret source of all my powers). Many of the links provided here will click through to WEX Photo Video who I have been using for over 10 years now and continue to use for most of my equipment. 

Types of Camera

There are three main types of camera – compact, mirrorless and DSLR. There's also the term "bridge cameras" but that was essentially swallowed up by the compact and mirroless markets. So what’s the difference?

• Compact cameras are small, flexible and convenient. They fit in your pocket and you can take them out to take photographs with little effort. They have fixed lenses, so you cannot change lenses, but they are increasingly feature heavy so you can really play about to get some great results.This does mean that there have to be some compromises and/or cost a surprisingly more than you might expect. You'll often find the quality and responsiveness increases with the RRP and will usually fall somewhere between a camera phone and a Mirrorless and DSLR.   
• DSLR cameras are much bigger than compacts and are very robust, which provides peace of mind when you are taking it out and about. The battery life is usually the best because DSLRs are more mechanical than other types of camera, so the battery isn’t drained by complicated electronics. An internal mirror reflects the image you see into your optical viewfinder, allowing you to see your subject in real time through the lens. You can use interchangeable lenses. It is worth noting that pretty much all manufacturers have stopped producing DSLRs, meaning these cameras, the lenses and accessories will be left behind as technology profresses (it also means they get cheaper and cheaper - eg. many DSLR cameras that sold for thousands are now available for hundreds on the used market) 
• Mirrorless cameras, as the name suggests, do not use the mirrors that DSLRs utilise. Instead, you see a digital version of the image on your viewfinder or screen. One key advantage is that you can see what the sensor sees, helping you understand whether the image is going to turn out too dark, for example, and what effect your adjustments will have on the outcome of the picture. The autofocus on a mirrorless camera tends to be better than other types and the technology available is usually superior. They tend to be lighter than DSLRs, but often use more battery power.  You can use interchangeable lenses, and the major manufacturers are all pouring resources into developing, advancing and supporting mirrorless models, but this does mean that they usually come with the highest price tag. 

Choosing Between Key Camera Manufacturers

My general advice when it comes to choosing a camera brand, is "If it ain't broke, don't try to fix it". Therefore if you're happy with the feel of your previous camera, used to the menu system and aren't frustrated by the user experience and/or accessory choices, stick brand you've already invested in. If you are frustrated or starting from a clean slate, here's some observations from my own experience...  (It's worth noting that all brands are producing some pretty exceptional cameras right now).

• Canon are widely considered to make the most user-friendly cameras and tend to br the easiest to pick up and learn on. You’ll find some great, high quality solutions that you can start to get the most out of pretty quickly.
• Nikon also provides systems of fantastic quality with high-end manufacturing and components. With their mid-top end range of cameras and lenses the RRPs are probably the best value on the market. Personally, I've found they lack the user-friendliness of Canon’s products but if you're happy to persevere, you'll  can some impressive bang for your buck! 
• Sony blazed a trail in the mirrorless market, having entered the camera industry later than their competitors. Having concentrated on mirrorless before many of the other manufacturers, there are plenty of used Sony cameras to choose from, with a broad range of quality systems available. They are also the choice of a growing number of professional photographers, with Sony challenging Canon and Nikon for supremacy in the press pack at events like the Olympic games. 
• Fujifilm makes very good value cameras that will certainly help you take fantastic pictures. They are particularly popular with amateur photographers who are conscious of cost, but are serious about the photographs they take. 
• Panasonic is another brand that provides value for money. You get a lot for your money when you buy a Panasonic camera, which provides peace of mind. They are also popular with videographers due to their excellent video capabilities. Their systems have also really improved over time and they are now at the top of their game. 
• Olympus are another favourite of keen amateur photographers, thanks to the combination of high end tech and lightweight systems. For amateur wildlife photographers, for example, Olympus have a range of portable solutions that still pack a punch. 

What is the Best Camera?

Here are my picks for the best new cameras to buy in 2025.

Disclosure, since writing this camera guide, I have partnered with Wex Photo Video which means if you buy something via the links in this article I may get a small percentage back (at no extra cost to you). Choosing to partner with Wex was an easy decision as I have been using and recommending them for over 10 years anyway! 

My recommendations are genuine and made based on the hundreds of different cameras and people I encounter during workshops and lessons each year. 

It’s also worth remembering that the camera market is fast-paced and constantly changing. I will endeavour to keep the latest developments and recommendations updated towards the bottom of this article. 

Best Cameras By Price

Under £250

The good news is that it is still possible to find a good camera and lens combination for less than £250, if you are willing to buy second hand. Here are some examples of pre-loved cameras you could get hold of for this wallet-friendly price:

• The Canon 7D DSLR paired with a used lens like the Canon EF-S 15-85mm f3.5-5.6 IS USM will come in at under £250 and will set you up to start exploring your photography.
• Alternatively, try out another DSLR – the Nikon D5200 with the Nikon AF-S 18-70mm lens.
• Another option is the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ200, which is a decade old, but offers a high quality x24 zoom lens and will certainly do the job.

£250 – £500

You have the option to choose between compact, DSLR and mirrorless in this price range, and these are the systems I would suggest looking into:

• Compact: Olympus OM SYSTEM Tough TG-7 is waterproof, shockproof and freezeproof, making it a good choice to accompany you on adventures. 
• DSLR: Canon EOS 2000D (without lens) is an easy-to-use and intuitive camera that works well, even in low light conditions

Mirrorless: There are a few options here, including:

• Panasonic LUMIX DMC-G7 is feature-packed and great for video as well as stills. 
• Canon EOS R100 is a user-friendly option with creative assist tools to help you make the most of your photography
• Sony ZV-E10 is a good option if vlogging is your thing. It allows you to create stunning 4K videos at a great price.  

Used: Your money can stretch further with a second hand camera and here are some great options at this price:

• Compact: Sony Vlog ZV-1
• DSLR: Canon 5d Mark III
• Mirrorless: Sony A7

£500 – £1000

Stepping up to the next level, there are some superb options that still come in under a grand. Here’s what I would recommend for the best camera without hitting four figures:

• Compact: There are two options here:
• Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ2000 is promoted as a strong photo and video hybrid device, with a feature that allows you to take a photo and then choose your focal point later.
• Sony VLOG ZV-1 offers high quality video and photography that allows you to share your shots instantly with your smartphone to share them more easily

• DSLR: Canon EOS 2000D (with lens) offers easy operability, intuitive design and an in-camera guide.
• Mirrorless: Choose from 
• Canon EOS R10 is a great step up as you gain more experience as a photographer. It’s great if you are into photographing wildlife or sporting action
• Panasonic Lumix G9 provides high quality and speed, allowing you to capture images in 80 megapixels
• Sony A6400 is great value, towards the lower end of this bracket, and is super fast too.
• Used: There are also some great second hand deals to be had in this price range:
• Sony A7 III is perfect for capturing great images, even in low light conditions.
• Canon EOS 90D is extremely versatile and is designed for producing stunning images, even when the subject is moving at speed.
• Nikon Z6 offers the ability to take sharp, crisp images and features a powerful autofocus. 

£1000 – £1,500

Heading over the £1,000 mark, here are the models that will do a great job for you:

Compact: Here are two great possibilities:

• Nikon Z fc looks great, with a nod back to 1982’s Nikon FM2 SLR film camera, but also makes for a powerful and versatile camera with plenty of features
• Olympus OM-5 is built to take out and about on adventures. It’s small but tough and robust, whilst enabling you to take great shots.
• DSLR: Canon EOS 6D Mark II will do the job both in low and bright light, as well as allowing for impressive depth of field control.
• Mirrorless: I have two to choose from here:
• Canon R7 features the APS-C sized sensor, helping you find a balance between resolution, speed and great performance in low light situations.
• Fujifilm X-S20 features autofocus that uses an АІ аlgоrіthm to аutоmаtісаllу trасkѕ ѕubјесt аnd kеер thеm іn fосuѕ.
• Used: In the Used section, you can grab some powerful equipment in this price range:
• Olympus OM-1 is lightweight, but tough, allowing you to get out and about without worrying about it
• Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is designed to be weather resistant and the 30-megapixel CMOS sensor contributes to its ability to capture stunning detail
• Sony Cyber-Shot RX10 IV boasts an autofocus speed of just 0.03 seconds and speedy processing too. 

£1,500 – £2,500

These are the models that I think you should be looking at if you have between £1,500 and £2,500:

• Compact: Fujifilm X100VI comes with powerful 5-axis in-body image stabilisation to help reduce camera shake and result in sharp pictures.
• Mirrorless: There are three options here:
• Sony A7 IV features an advanced image processor, aiding superb performance for both photography and videography.
• Olympus OM-1 Mark II is a high quality system with a lightweight design and excellent stabilisation.
• Fujifilm X-T5 features super-quick shutter speeds so you can capture fast moving action with ease.
• Used: Here are three second hand options:
• Nikon D850 DSLR comes with a powerful 45.7 megapixel sensor and extended battery life. 
• Nikon Z7II combines high frame rates with speedy image processing in this professional standard device.
• Canon EOS R5 allows you to capture hugely detailed 45 megapixel stills and 8K video footage. 

£2,500 – £4,000

Heading above £2,500, here are my recommendations:

• Mirrorless: Here are four great models:
• Nikon Z6 III prioritises speed and precision and offers excellent image quality, dynamic range and colour fidelity. 
• Sony A7R V is a world class system that offers high quality images and captures fast moving subjects with ease.
• Nikon Z8 provides a range of powerful features to help your creative photography in a lightweight and compact body.
• Nikon Z7II features Dual EXPEED 6 image processors and significantly higher frame rates than its predecessors for a professional experience.

Used: Grab some powerful cameras for less by going second hand:

• Canon R6 Mark II is a world-class camera with lightning-fast speed and the ability to capture fantastic photographs and video. 
• Nikon Z6 III offers exceptional quality for hybrid photography and filmmaking as well as exceptional stability in any scenario.

Best of the best (over £4,000)

If you want to go top-of-the-range, I have these options for you that will come in at over £4,000:

• Canon EOS R5 Mark II gets you great results thanks to its rapid speed and stunning resolution.
• Sony A1 is built to a very high standard and provides the speed you need to capture everything you need, no matter how quickly it moves - Update - A1 II recently announced for pre-order
• Nikon Z9 is equally effective at capturing images and video, with a powerful autofocus and many other powerful features. 

Best Cameras By Use

The best camera for you will often depend on your level of experience and what you are doing with your photography. 

Early photography professional

For those starting off with professional photography, the Canon R6 II is a great choice. This full frame camera offers fast and accurate autofocus, with great image quality but without the overwhelming file sizes. The dual memory card slots allow you to simultaneously shoot onto a backup card to keep your images safe. 

Wildlife photography

When it comes to photographing wildlife, it’s hard if not impossible to argue with the value for money that you get from the Olympus OM-1 II. It provides extra reach but remains lightweight, which is handy when you are out and about in different habitats. You will get pro level results but without the big file sizes too, which is another reason to check this camera out. 

Best for Landscape 

If landscapes are your thing, then I would recommend the Sony A7R V. It produces super-detailed, high-quality large files that make the epic scenes you capture feel awesome when you look through your photos. 

Best beginner

When you are starting out, the Canon EOS R10 is a great step up if you have pushed your DSLR or smartphone camera to the limits. This will help you unlock your potential and help you develop your skills in style. 

Best All Rounder

If you want a versatile option, the Fujifilm X-S20 is set up as the perfect hybrid photograph and video option. It provides sharpness, clarity and silent autofocus that allows you to capture everything you need without interruption. 

Buying Used Cameras

One great piece of advice to give you is to explore the Used Cameras section of Wex. The second hand camera market is strong and, if you are not concerned with having the very latest technology, you can find some exceptional professional-standard cameras and equipment for a tenth of its original price. 

There is a tech revolution in the camera world and new models and features are being developed and brought to market at lightning speed. The great news for budget-conscious photographers is that this means there is a wide array of very good models that have been traded in or which photographers are looking to sell now they have moved on to the latest, shiny versions. 

Buying used cameras can provide you with access to the equipment that top professionals were using just a few years ago, giving these fantastic cameras a new lease of life. 

Top Tips for Camera Buying

Try hiring a camera

One of the best ways to work out whether a camera and lens is right for you is to hire a camera for a while. Buying cameras can be a significant investment so taking the opportunity to try it out before you make the purchase is a sensible option. Camera rental helps you get an idea of how the camera works, what it feels like and how effective it is for your purposes. 

Watch for price changes

When you see the price of a camera you have had your eye on suddenly drop in price, this can mean that there is a newer, better version of the camera on the way. The manufacturer will be looking to clear stock of the previous version before they bring out its successor. This can work in two ways. On one hand, you get a better price on a relatively new camera. On the other hand, you miss out on the new features. I don’t mind admitting that I have bought what I thought was a bargain before realising that the new version was on the way and I could have had it if I’d just held on! 

Finding the Best Camera

If you are looking for the best camera for you, I hope this article has helped and given you a few ideas. I have worked with so many different types of camera during the years, helping people attending workshops find the right settings to allow their photography to flourish. From this experience, I am able to share with you these insights that will help you with finding the right camera for your situation and budget. 

My Camera Choice?

So what's my choice? At the moment my camera kit comprises of a Canon EOS R6, Canon EOS R6 II & an R5 II. 

Current Best Deals

Camera Rumour Mill

Of course, there are always exciting developments bubbling away in the industry, with manufacturers continually looking to create the next big thing. Here are some of the rumours about models we can expect to see on the shelves in the coming months:

• Canon R6 III - Rumoured to be announced early 2025
• Sony A7 V - There is a lot of excitement about this but not much detail at the moment. However, it'll be a shock if this camera doesn't come out at some point in 2025
• Canon R7 II - Rumoured to be announced later in 2025.