The Best Digital Cameras for 2024 | PCMag Skip to Main Content
PCMag editors select and review products independently. If you buy through affiliate links, we may earn commissions, which help support our testing.

The Best Digital Cameras for 2024

We test and rate scores of digital cameras and lenses each year, from pocket-friendly models to high-end medium format systems. Here's everything you need to know to pick the best camera for you.

By Jim Fisher
Updated February 23, 2024

Our Top 10 Picks

Canon EOS R6 Mark II

Best Full-Frame Camera Overall
Jump To Details
Nikon Z 8, front

Nikon Z 8

Best High-Res Full-Frame
Jump To Details
Fujifilm X-S20, three-quarter view

Fujifilm X-S20

Best Mirrorless for Enthusiasts and Creators
Jump To Details
GoPro Hero12 Black

GoPro Hero12 Black

Best Action Camera
Jump To Details
Lumix G9 II with lens

Panasonic Lumix DC-G9 II

Best Micro Four Thirds Mirrorless
Jump To Details

Sony ZV-E1

Best Full-Frame Vlog Cam
Jump To Details
DJI Osmo Pocket 3, front

DJI Osmo Pocket 3

Best for Vlogging
Jump To Details
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII

Best Premium Compact
Jump To Details
Sony a6700, three-quarter view

Sony a6700

Best APS-C for Sony E Lenses
Jump To Details
Best Sub-$1,000 Camera for Action

Canon EOS R10

Best Sub-$1,000 Camera for Action
Jump To Details

The Best Digital Camera Deals This Week*

*Deals are selected by our commerce team

Shopping for a digital camera? We're here to help. Our reviews cover everything from pocket-friendly models to high-end gear for pros. It's a diverse space that can be difficult to navigate if you don't spend all of your free time reading photo blogs and talking about your favorite lenses on an enthusiast forum.

Our goal is to help you find a camera that suits your needs, regardless of whether you're a family photographer looking for something better than a smartphone, or an enthusiast trying to decide between an SLR and a mirrorless camera system.

If you have an idea of what type of camera you want, check our top overall recommendations below. Otherwise, scroll down for a detailed look at the most popular camera classes and our favorites in those categories.


Our Experts Have Tested 74 Products in the Cameras Category in the Past Year
Since 1982, PCMag has tested and rated thousands of products to help you make better buying decisions. See how we test.

Table of Contents

Deeper Dive: Our Top Tested Picks
Canon EOS R6 Mark II

Canon EOS R6 Mark II

Best Full-Frame Camera Overall

4.5 Outstanding

Why We Picked It

The Canon EOS R6 Mark II is our favorite full-frame camera for most people. It snaps attractive 24MP photos and has a class-leading autofocus system that smartly recognizes people, animals, and vehicles. With 12fps (mechanical) and 40fps (electronic shutter) bursts available, it's especially suitable for action shots, while stabilized 4K60 video should please filmmakers and vloggers.

Who It's For

If you want a full-frame camera, the R6 Mark II should be near the top of your list. The big sensor means you can get soft, defocused backgrounds, while the best-in-class autofocus system ensures wildlife and sports specialists won't miss their shots. It's also an easy sell if you already own Canon SLR or RF lenses. Creators with Sony glass can look to the a7 IV as an alternative because it offers competitive performance for the same price.

PROS

  • Stabilized full-frame sensor
  • Class-leading autofocus
  • Superb picture quality
  • Magnesium body with dust and splash protection
  • Sharp EVF and swing-out touch LCD
  • 40fps tracking with e-shutter
  • Full-width 4K60 with 10-bit color
  • 6K support over HDMI

CONS

  • Limited third-party lens support
  • Fragile micro HDMI port

SPECS

Dimensions 3.9 by 5.4 by 3.5 inches
Weight 1.3 lb
Type Mirrorless
Sensor Resolution 24 MP
Sensor Type CMOS
Sensor Size Full-Frame
Lens Mount Canon RF
Memory Card Slots 2
Memory Card Format SDXC (UHS-II)
Battery Type Canon LP-E6NH
Minimum ISO 100
Maximum ISO 204800
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
Optical Zoom
Stabilization 5-Axis IBIS
Display Size 3 inches
Display Resolution 1.62 million dots
Touch Screen
Viewfinder Type EVF
Viewfinder Magnification 0.76x
EVF Resolution 3.7 million dots
Connectivity Bluetooth, micro HDMI, Wi-Fi, Microphone (3.5mm), Headphone (3.5mm), USB-C, Remote (2.5mm)
Maximum Waterproof Depth 0 feet
Video Resolution 4K
HDMI Output 4:2:2 12-bit
Flat Profile
Nikon Z 8, front

Nikon Z 8

Best High-Res Full-Frame

4.5 Outstanding

Why We Picked It

The Nikon Z 8 matches a high-resolution 45MP Stacked CMOS sensor with an autofocus engine that can track subjects at 20fps, a combination that's ideal for everything from wedding and fashion events to sports and wildlife capture. A midsize, weather-sealed body, brilliant EVF, and support for both Raw and ProRes video round out the feature set.

Who It's For

The Z 8 is for professionals who use a camera to make a living, as well as knowledgeable enthusiasts. Its high-pixel sensor offers the broad dynamic range and resolution that landscape and architectural photography requires, while in-body stabilization, fast focus, and excellent low-light performance are ideal for events and action. Nikon has a full series of Z mirrorless lenses that work with the camera, too.

PROS

  • Sturdy, weather-sealed build
  • Large, crisp EVF with interruption-free capture
  • Dual-axis touch LCD
  • 20fps Raw and 120fps JPG bursts
  • Backlit buttons
  • Internal N-Raw and ProRes video capture
  • Up to 8K60 or 4K120 video

CONS

  • Heavier than competitors
  • Average battery life

SPECS

Dimensions 4.7 by 5.7 by 3.3 inches
Weight 2 lb
Type Mirrorless
Sensor Resolution 45.7 MP
Sensor Type Stacked CMOS
Sensor Size Full-Frame
Lens Mount Nikon Z
Memory Card Slots 2
Memory Card Format XQD/CFexpress (Type B), SDXC (UHS-II)
Battery Type Nikon EN-EL15c
Minimum ISO 32
Maximum ISO 102400
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
Optical Zoom
Stabilization 5-Axis IBIS
Display Size 3.2 inches
Display Resolution 2.1 million dots
Touch Screen
Viewfinder Type EVF
Viewfinder Magnification 0.8x
EVF Resolution 3.7 million dots
Connectivity Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C, HDMI, Microphone (3.5mm), Headphone (3.5mm), Remote (Nikon 10-Pin)
Maximum Waterproof Depth
Video Resolution 8K
HDMI Output 4:2:2 10-bit
Flat Profile
Learn More
Nikon Z 8 Review
Fujifilm X-S20, three-quarter view

Fujifilm X-S20

Best Mirrorless for Enthusiasts and Creators

4.5 Outstanding

Why We Picked It

The Fujifilm X-S20 is a near-ideal camera for content creators and photo enthusiasts alike. It puts Fuji's X-Trans color science into a magnesium body with familiar controls, long battery life, and a swing-out LCD for vlogging. A stabilized sensor and an extensive lens library make it a favorite for travel and anyone who wants options when it comes to glass. The only real knock against it for travel is the lack of weather protection.

Who It's For

We like the X-S20 for photo hobbyists who can take advantage of Fuji's large library of dedicated APS-C lenses, as well as content creators who want to make YouTube videos or short films. Event photogs should look to a higher-tier model with dual card slots, however, such as the Canon EOS R7 or Fuji X-T5.

PROS

  • Magnesium body with swing-out LCD
  • Subject recognition autofocus system
  • Long battery life
  • 7-stop stabilization
  • Built-in flash
  • Diverse set of film simulation looks
  • 10-bit 4K60 and 6K30 video

CONS

  • Not weather-sealed
  • Undersized EVF
  • Prone to overheating

SPECS

Dimensions 3.4 by 5.0 by 2.6 inches
Weight 1.1 lbs
Type Mirrorless
Sensor Resolution 26 MP
Sensor Type X-Trans BSI CMOS
Sensor Size APS-C
Lens Mount Fujifilm X
Memory Card Slots 1
Memory Card Format SDXC (UHS-II)
Battery Type Fujifilm NP-W235
Minimum ISO 80
Maximum ISO 51200
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
Optical Zoom
Stabilization 5-Axis IBIS
Display Size 3.0 inches
Display Resolution 1.8 million dots
Touch Screen
Viewfinder Type EVF
Viewfinder Magnification 0.62x
EVF Resolution 2.36 million dots
Connectivity Bluetooth, USB-C, Wi-Fi, micro HDMI, Microphone (3.5mm), Headphone (3.5mm), Remote (2.5mm)
Maximum Waterproof Depth 0 feet
Video Resolution 4K, 6K (3:2)
HDMI Output 4:2:2 12-bit
Flat Profile
GoPro Hero12 Black

GoPro Hero12 Black

Best Action Camera

4.5 Outstanding

Why We Picked It

The GoPro Hero12 Black is the camera to beat for video-first creators who want to document outdoor adventures, dives, and extreme sports, as well as just make vlogs. It supports 5.3K60 and 4K120 capture, records incredibly stable footage without the need for a gimbal, and is small enough to mount pretty much anywhere. The 8:7 format sensor offers flexibility to pull out 16:9 and 9:16 video from the same clip. Optional accessories like the Media Mod cage and microphone, as well as the ultra-wide Max Lens 2.0 mod, make it a bit more versatile than budget action cams. We also like that it's waterproof to 33 feet.

Who It's For

GoPro started as a brand for surfers, so if Point Break is your favorite movie, consider yourself in the target market. Video-first adventure seekers should find the Hero12 ideal for slow-motion action shots, while vloggers should appreciate the front-facing color monitor and moving time-lapse mode.

PROS

  • Class-leading video stabilization
  • 10-bit HDR, GP-Log, and SDR video profiles
  • Up to 5.3K60, 4K120, or 2.7K240 recording
  • More useful Easy Controls than on Hero11
  • Front and rear displays
  • Pro controls and timecode sync
  • Tough, waterproof build
  • Small enough to mount in tight spots

CONS

  • Drops long-running GPS feature
  • Only a few headphones support wireless audio feature
  • One battery won't last all day

SPECS

Dimensions 2.0 by 2.8 by 1.3 inches
Weight 4.5 oz
Type Action Camera
Sensor Resolution 27 MP
Sensor Type CMOS
Sensor Size
Lens Mount
Memory Card Slots 1
Memory Card Format microSDXC
Battery Type GoPro Enduro
Minimum ISO 100
Maximum ISO 6400
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
Optical Zoom
Stabilization
Display Size 2.3 inches
Display Resolution
Touch Screen
Viewfinder Type
Viewfinder Magnification
EVF Resolution
Connectivity Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB-C
Maximum Waterproof Depth 33 feet
Video Resolution 5.3K
HDMI Output None
Flat Profile
GET IT NOW
Lumix G9 II with lens

Panasonic Lumix DC-G9 II

Best Micro Four Thirds Mirrorless

4.5 Outstanding

Why We Picked It

The Lumix G9 II is the best Micro Four Thirds camera we've tested. Its sensor goes toe-to-toe with larger-format competitors in picture quality, while its huge lens library gives creators plenty of flexibility. A stabilized sensor, 10-bit 5.7K60 video capture, and a sturdy all-weather build make it a good choice for video, location, and outdoor use. We also like the revamped autofocus system that integrates phase detection pixels for high-speed capture with subject tracking.

Who It's For

The Micro Four Thirds system makes sense for photographers who prefer to carry a lighter overall kit. Yes, the G9 II is built around a full-frame chassis, but it's still light at 1.4 pounds and balances well with a lot of compact lenses from Panasonic, OM System, and others. It's also great for hybrid creators thanks to its excellent video toolkit.

PROS

  • Crisp 25MP photos with 100MP multi-sampling
  • Fast phase detect focus system
  • Effective subject recognition and tracking
  • Large, 120fps electronic viewfinder
  • 16-bit Raw images handle edits well
  • Fantastic control scheme
  • Stabilized 10-bit video
  • Works with Micro Four Thirds lens library

CONS

  • Oversized body for Micro Four Thirds
  • Omits UVC/UAC webcam support
  • Middling battery life

SPECS

Dimensions 4.0 by 5.3 by 3.5 inches
Weight 1.4 lb
Type Mirrorless
Sensor Resolution 25 MP
Sensor Type CMOS
Sensor Size Micro Four Thirds
Lens Mount Micro Four Thirds
Memory Card Slots 2
Memory Card Format SDXC (UHS-II)
Battery Type Panasonic DMW-BLK22
Minimum ISO 50
Maximum ISO 25600
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
Optical Zoom
Stabilization 5-Axis IBIS
Display Size 3.0 inches
Display Resolution 1.8 million dots
Touch Screen
Viewfinder Type EVF
Viewfinder Magnification 0.8x
EVF Resolution 3.7 million dots
Connectivity Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, HDMI, USB-C, Microphone (3.5mm), Headphone (3.5mm), Remote (2.5mm)
Maximum Waterproof Depth
Video Resolution 5.7K
HDMI Output 4:2:2 10-bit
Flat Profile
Sony ZV-E1

Sony ZV-E1

Best Full-Frame Vlog Cam

4.5 Outstanding

Why We Picked It

The Sony ZV-E1 is the best full-frame camera you can get for vlogging. Its big sensor records video with blurred-out backgrounds, as well as includes stabilization to support steady handheld recording. The 12MP pixel count is somewhat meager but supports pixel-for-pixel readout for the best 4K video from a small camera. A quality in-camera mic sets it apart from mainstream photo cameras like the a7 IV. There are loads of lenses available too, with plenty of both affordable and high-end options. Third-party lens makers, including Sigma and Tamron, bolster Sony's FE lens line.

Who's It For

If you've got a YouTube channel or aspire to have one, the ZV-E1 should be on your short list. It's especially suitable if you plan to serve both as the on-screen talent and the camera operator. The ZV-E1 includes some tracking and zoom-in options to add Ken Burns-style motion to shots, meaning you can let the camera handle movements and concentrate on the content of your video. Its small size and weather-sealed body are equally useful for location shots and those in the studio.

PROS

  • 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

CONS

  • Fragile micro HDMI port
  • Can overheat at 4K60
  • No mechanical shutter

SPECS

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
35mm Equivalent (Wide)
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
Optical Zoom
Stabilization 5-Axis IBIS
Display Size 3 inches
Display Resolution 1.04 million dots
Touch Screen
Viewfinder Type None
Viewfinder Magnification
EVF Resolution
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
Learn More
Sony ZV-E1 Review
DJI Osmo Pocket 3, front

DJI Osmo Pocket 3

Best for Vlogging

4.0 Excellent

Why We Picked It

The compact, vlog-friendly DJI Osmo Pocket 3 puts a wide-angle 20mm lens and a 4K video camera on a three-axis gimbal that enables rock-steady handheld footage. It also supports 4K60 recording with sound and 120fps slow-motion in widescreen mode, as well as manages a quality 3K picture in a vertical aspect ratio. The Pocket's Type 1 sensor works well in dim light and supports 2x lossless digital zoom for scenes in which the prime lens is a little too wide.

Who It's For

The Osmo Pocket 3 is first and foremost a video camera. It snaps stills, sure, but its gimbal-stabilized video is the main appeal. You should get it for self-recorded videos, travel logs, and documentary-style footage. We recommend spending more on the Creator Combo ($669) if you're after a turnkey vlogging solution as it adds an extended life battery and a wireless lapel mic for longer shoots with crystal clear sound. Just remember that the Pocket is not rugged or waterproof, so it won't replace your action cam.

PROS

  • Large image sensor excels in dim light
  • Excellent battery life
  • Records long clips without overheating
  • Built-in wireless mic support
  • USB-C charging

CONS

  • Not rugged or weatherproof
  • Costs more than the Pocket 2

SPECS

Dimensions 5.6 by 1.6 by 1.2 inches
Weight 6.4 oz
Type Compact
Sensor Resolution
Sensor Type
Sensor Size Type 1
Lens Mount
Memory Card Slots 1
Memory Card Format microSDXC
Battery Type Internal
Minimum ISO
Maximum ISO
35mm Equivalent (Wide) 20 mm
35mm Equivalent (Telephoto)
Optical Zoom
Stabilization Gimbal
Display Size 2 inches
Display Resolution
Touch Screen
Viewfinder Type
Viewfinder Magnification
EVF Resolution
Connectivity USB-C, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Maximum Waterproof Depth
Video Resolution 4K
HDMI Output None
Flat Profile
Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII

Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII

Best Premium Compact

4.0 Excellent

Why We Picked It

The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 VII is, simply put, the best pocket camera out there. It sports a big Type 1 sensor for blurred backgrounds and good results in tough light, along with a long 24-200mm equivalent zoom for versatile coverage and a clever pop-up viewfinder. Autofocus is topflight too, while a stacked CMOS sensor supports 20fps bursts and 4K video.

Who It's For

The RX100 VII is a camera for die-hard photogs who want a quality camera with a pocketable form factor, price be damned. Its lens covers a wide range of angles, so you can get an epic landscape views and zoom in on the local fauna, too. Meanwhile, the EVF supports eye-level shots for photography.

PROS

  • 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.

CONS

  • Expensive.
  • Can't start video while images are writing to card.
  • Limited touch functions.

SPECS

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)
Lens Mount
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
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
Sony a6700, three-quarter view

Sony a6700

Best APS-C for Sony E Lenses