It’s hard to beat a good mirrorless camera. Their beautiful combination of lightweight portability and stunning image quality make them the favorite tool of photographers everywhere. The trouble is, many mirrorless cameras can be prohibitively expensive.
That’s where we come in. We’ve trawled through countless reviews online to find the best mirrorless camera under $600. The list on this page contains our top picks for the best options on the market.
We’ve considered sensor size, image quality and, of course, price to find options that we genuinely believe are worth your money. Also be sure to check out our buyer’s guide towards the end of this page. It contains our pointers on how to spot a high-quality mirrorless camera when shopping.
Best Mirrorless Camera Under $600 – Our Top Picks and Reviews
Check out the list below to find your new favorite mirrorless camera. We’ve included options from most major brands.
1. Panasonic Lumix GX85
This option from Panasonic packs formidable optical performance into a package that’s refreshingly easy to carry with you. The camera body of the GX85 rests comfortably on the palm of your hand.
Despite its small size, its 16MP live MOS sensor and Panasonic’s powerful “Venus Engine” for image processing deliver phenomenal images with rich colors and vivid detail.
More Than 27 Lens Options
For a mirrorless camera under $600, this option is compatible with a surprising number of interchangeable lenses, including more heavy-duty Leica lenses. This adds an unparalleled level of versatility when compared to a standard point-and-shoot camera.
High-Speed Autofocus
One area where some mirrorless cameras in this price range can fall short is when tackling a moving subject. Not so with the GX85. This powerful micro four thirds camera comes with the image stabilization and autofocus system you need to keep even speedy, dynamic subjects sharply in focus.
4K Photo and Video Options
This mirrorless camera comes with a number of intelligent considerations that make it easy to shoot, capture and even live crop at 4K resolution. While there are plenty of options out there that can achieve feats like this, it’s far less common with a camera under 600 dollars.
Pros:
- Less than half the bulk of a traditional DSLR
- Speedy autofocus system
- Micro four thirds format for portability
- Tons of lens options
Cons:
- The lack of a microphone jack will be disappointing for some
2. Fujifilm X-A5
One thing we love about Fujifilm is how well they develop modern, new camera systems that stay true to their retro roots. Don’t let the retro aesthetic of the X-A5 fool you though. This APS-C mirrorless camera is built with everything it needs to take great photos is 2021.
Portrait Enhancer
If you’re a content creator, influencer, or just love a good selfie, then this is probably the best mirrorless camera for you. The built-in “Portrait Enhancer” on the X-A5 automatically enhances skin tones and other photo elements to instantly improve portrait shots.
Simulate Film Photos
One prominent strength of Fujifilm cameras in our opinion is the brand’s consistently impressive filters and presets designed to simulate the look and feel of taking photos using traditional film. While the functionality is arguably just a baby step or two above a gimmick, it can produce some really lovely shots with minimal effort.
Compatible With X Mount Lenses
This mirrorless camera is compatible with Fujifilm’s line of X-mount lenses. This gives you a reasonable amount of flexibility when it comes to the type of work you’ll be able to do with your camera. While there’s less choice than some competitors like Canon, you’ll almost definitely find what you need.
Pros:
- Attractive retro stylings with modern camera performance
- Fujifilm’s awesome “film simulation” presets
- Great performance for a camera under 600
- Super lightweight compared to a DSLR
Cons:
- 4K video capture is limited to 15fps
3. Sony Alpha a6000
If you’re looking for a camera that can deliver the high-speed performance you’re looking for, this APS-C mirrorless camera won’t disappoint. It offers blisteringly fast continuous shooting, autofocus and image processing. This is a very good mirrorless camera under 600 dollars.
Super Speedy
The a6000 is capable of continuous shooting at 11fps. Combine this with the camera’s 179 autofocus points and you’re looking and perhaps the best mirrorless camera on the market as far as raw speed is concerned. If you do a lot of burst shooting for your photography, definitely consider this one.
Great Low-Light Performance
Some mirrorless cameras struggle when it comes to shooting in sub-optimal lighting conditions. Fortunately, the a6000 comes with an ISO range of 100-25600. Pair this with the right lens and you’ll be capturing stunning images, even at night time.
BIONZ X Image Processing
This camera wouldn’t have made it to a “best mirrorless camera under 600 dollars” review if it didn’t offer good onboard image processing. Sony’s “BIONZ X” chip does a great job of developing your images quickly and effectively. This camera has strong color accuracy and great overall optical performance.
Pros:
- Good low-light performance
- Best mirrorless camera for speed
- Powerful onboard processing
- 179 autofocus points
Cons:
- The built-in Wi-Fi functionality can be a little janky
Check out the best travel lenses for the Sony a6000
4. Canon EOS M100
Next up in our quest to find the best mirrorless camera under 600 dollars in the Canon EOS M1oo. This is another option that offers great speed, impressive image quality and a powerful APS-C sensor. With access to Canon’s legendary line of EF-M, EF and EF-S lenses, this is a capable little camera.
Tilt-Type LCD Screen
Like the Fujifilm option earlier on this page, this camera uses a tilting screen that can flip over to face the user when taking selfie photos. We can practically hear some of you rolling your eyes at this feature, but hear us out. It can make group shots, professional content creation and holiday photos so much easier.
Vibrant Photos With Minimal Noise
A 24.2 megapixel APS-C, CMOS sensor combines with Canon’s “DIGIC 7” image processor to produce shots that are vibrant, detailed and crisp. This camera does a great job of reducing image noise and makes it refreshingly easy to take photos that make a lasting impression.
The range of color represented here is also impressive.
AutoFocus Tracking
Looking for strong image stabilization and focus tracking that can keep up with moving subjects? Canon has you covered with the EOS M100. The demo photos provided by Canon for this camera even feature stunning shots of blisteringly fast horse races. In the right pair of hands, this is a very capable device.
Pros:
- Vibrant photos with very little effort
- The tilting LCD is great for group shots
- Great image stabilization and focus tracking
- Access to tons of Canon lenses
Cons:
- The lens that comes in the box isn’t made by Canon
5. Sony Alpha a5100
In many ways, Sony has had a bit of a head start in the mirrorless space. For a short while, they were one of the only brands producing the best mirrorless cameras. While this is no longer the case, Sony’s experience in this area really shines through with the a5100.
Familiar Sony Speed
As with the other Sony mirrorless cameras featured on this page, the a5100 comes with the speed that many users have come to expect of the brand. The 179 autofocus points, intelligent image stabilization and 6fps continuous shooting combine for a package that can produce gorgeous footage as quickly as you need it to.
Easy One-Hand Use
It’s true that most mirrorless cameras are significantly easier to operate using just one hand. That said, this model from Sony is particularly comfortable to use. The ergonomic camera body and lightweight frame allow for a camera that’s a joy to use on the go. Even with a hefty lens, this thing is much lighter than a DSLR.
The Low-Light Performance You Expect
Just like the a6000, this thing does a brilliant job of maintaining a high image quality in poor lighting conditions. The broad ISO range works in tandem with Sony’s stellar image processor to create images with far more detail than some of the competition.
Pros:
- Familiar Sony speed
- Performs well in low light
- Another option with a flip LCD
- Excellent one-hand use
Cons:
- The video performance is a little disappointing
6. Canon EOS M50 Mirrorless 4K Camera (body only)
Available at: Adorama
If 4K video performance is a priority for you, this is probably the best mirrorless camera under 600 dollars you’re going to find. The Canon EOS M50 brings excellent video performance, stunning image processing and speedy continuous shooting to the table. All for under $600!
Vari-Angle Touchscreen LCD
We’re big fans of the LCD on this option from Canon. The flexible design is surprisingly versatile and allows for a much more comfortable experience when shooting from a range of different angles. What’s more, Canon’s interface for this camera is completely touch compatible.
4K UHD and HD Slow Motion
As mentioned above, this camera does a great job of capturing footage in 4K. 4K video is capped at 24pfs. While it would have been nice to see higher frame rate options at this resolution, 24fps does lend a lovely cinematic feel to your footage.
At 1080p, this camera can also capture slow motion video for an awesome dramatic effect.
Automatic Transfer and Wi-Fi Connectivity
Most cameras these days offer some form of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity. The difference with the EOS M50 is that is actually does a decent job of getting things to work smoothly. With an optional companion app, this camera can automatically transfer your files to a compatible device of your choosing.
Pros:
- Great 4K and slow motion options
- Wi-Fi features aren’t a huge headache
- Lovely vari-angle LCD
- Access to Canon’s awesome lenses
Cons:
- The built-in microphone is far from ideal
7. Canon EOS M200 Mirrorless Camera with EF-M 15-45mm Lens
In recent years, Canon has been achieving great things in the mirrorless space. In fact, you might just find the best mirrorless camera under 600 dollars among their lineup of products. The EOS M200 demonstrates how far the brand has come with mirrorless cameras in recent years.
DIGIC 8 Image Processor
The latest iteration of Canon’s legendary onboard image processing, the DIGIC 8 processor is capable of glorious shots that are realized quickly and effectively, even in poor lighting conditions. Expect sharp, lifelike images with drastically reduced noise.
Tilting LCD
Like many cameras in this category, the EOS M200 comes with a handy tilting LCD that makes impromptu selfies a snap. Features like this make the Canon line of mirrorless cameras very attractive to content creators who need to self-reference while filming.
Feature Assistant
Most modern cameras come equipped with a ton of features. To the uninitiated, this can be pretty overwhelming. The feature assistant that comes built into the EOS M200 does a great job of introducing users to the capabilities of the camera. Big thumbs up from us.
Pros:
- Great selfie LCD
- Canon’s latest image processor
- Excellent optical performance for the price point
- Super quiet operation
Cons:
- Some people may find the tiny body difficult to get used to
Also available at: Adorama
8. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
There’s a lot to love about the OM-D E-M10 Mark IV. With killer image stabilization, great optical performance and an appealing price point, this micro four thirds camera is a great option. The classic Olympus stylings are also nice to see.
5-Axis Image Stabilization
The in-body image stabilization system on the OM-D E-M10 does a phenomenal job of keeping your stills, well, still. Perhaps more importantly, it keeps videos buttery smooth, even when captured by the more clumsy among us.
Strong 4K Performance
This micro four thirds beast can capture 4K 30p video and produce lovely slow-mo shots at 120 fps. If you’re looking for an option that does well with videos like this, we recommend either the Canon EOS M50 or this one. They both hold their own in this regard.
Touchscreen Interface
We’re big fans of the touchscreen LCD and accompanying interface with this camera. If you’re new to mirrorless photography, this camera is a great option to help you get started. The UI is refreshingly simple to navigate and can be understood by even a complete novice.
Pros:
- Excellent 4K video for this price point
- Touchscreen UI works well
- Video and stills are buttery smooth
- Can sometimes even be found for less than $500
Cons:
- This isn’t the best option if you love working with manual settings
Buying a Mirrorless Camera Under $600 – Our Guide
So you’ve decided you want to pick up a good mirrorless camera at a reasonable price. Before you head out and waste your money on a dud, it’s important to read up on some of the key things to look out for. Read on to learn more.
Lens Compatibility
This is a big one in our opinion. It’s possible to find mirrorless cameras with limited or even no support for interchangeable lenses. There are tons of options out there that support a wide variety of lens options and we think these are the cameras actually worth considering.
The ability to change your lens while working adds a whole new level of versatility and functionality to your device.
Pricing
You’re on a page discussing sub-$600 cameras so price is probably important to you. Our one piece of advice would be to proceed with caution when viewing any product that’s cheaper than $400.
You can still find some hidden gems at crazy-low prices, but just make sure that any camera you choose has the feature set you need.
Portability
One of the things that won the mirrorless format its popularity is how portable these cameras are when compared to bulkier DSLR options. That said, some modern mirrorless cameras can come with more heft than you might expect.
If you plan on switching between multiple interchangeable lenses, for example, make sure you check out the weights of the particular lenses you like to use. They can add a considerable amount of chunk to your camera’s footprint.
Auto Features
Competent autofocus and white balance adjustments are a must with a camera in 2021. Once you enter into the more “budget” region of below $600, some cameras can start to skimp on the essentials.
Look for ratings of autofocus speed, white balance systems and other image processing features that are designed to effortlessly improve the look of your photos.
Connectivity
Most cameras these days come with at least some form of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity for offloading your work to other devices. While these features are more ubiquitous than ever, their performance can vary significantly.
If a camera’s connectivity feature makes use of a companion app, be sure to look at its reviews to see how well it performs.
Continuous Shooting
This is sometimes described as “burst shooting” on some cameras. The speed for this feature is measured in fps, or frames per second. Anything above 5fps is generally considered “fast enough” for most everyday tasks.
Once you surpass 10fps, you’re looking at a camera that can perform at speed. This feature can work wonders when capturing moving subjects with your mirrorless camera, so be sure to check the speed of any model you consider.
Ease of Use
The best mirrorless camera under 600 dollars should be easy to use, even for relative beginners. Look for UIs that are easy to navigate, button layouts that are intuitively designed and camera bodies that are easy to hold.
Doing a quick Google search like “[camera model] ergonomics” is a great way to get a first impression of how the mirrorless camera actually feels in the hand.
Battery Life
This is a huge consideration for most people, especially if you need an affordable camera that will serve you well while traveling. It’s important to check out not only how long an individual battery lasts on a given camera, but also how easy and affordable it is to pick up spares.
When working on the go, one of the best “hacks” for increasing the lifespan of your device is to pack a couple of spare batteries that are always ready to go.
Low Light Performance
While truly dazzling results in poor lighting conditions is mostly reserved for more premium cameras, sub-$600 models can achieve a surprising amount if you choose the right model. Look for a broad ISO range and decent onboard image processing to ensure you get the performance you’re looking for.
Canon’s DIGIC 8 and Sony’s BIONZ X processors both do a great job of pushing available optical performance to its absolute limit. Check out cameras with these processors if low light performance matters to you.
Durability (Lens Mount Especially)
Be sure to check out how durable your chosen camera is. How much of the body is made of plastic vs metal, for example? There are plenty of plastic cameras out there that still offer decent durability, but it’s something to keep in mind.
Check for reviews of the lens mount durability with extra scrutiny. If your mount snaps early on it can completely cripple your camera.
Final Thoughts
The world of the mirrorless shooter has transformed in recent years. While Sony still offers a fair few gems at this price point, they’re far from the only option any more. We hope you found the recommendations on this page useful.
Use our opinions and buyer’s guide to come to your own conclusions. Remember that you know your preferences better than anyone. Think closely about what you need your camera to achieve for you. Use this knowledge to make the right decision.
Whichever mirrorless camera you choose, we hope it serves you well — whatever your subject.
