Want to invest your money in a camera but aren’t able to make a choice between a mirrorless and DSLR camera? If the answer to this question is yes, then you need not worry. Because for making an informed decision you first need to understand the difference between mirrorless and DSLR cameras. As both the cameras have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. To know about each aspect of such cameras, you need to move with us till the end.
✓ Core Difference: Internal Mechanism
DSLR cameras make use of a mirror to reflect the light from the lens to an optical viewfinder. Whereas the mirrorless cameras, as the name itself suggests these cameras do not have any mirror. Due to which the light passes directly through the lens and onto the image sensor. For preview the image gets displayed on the electronic viewfinder or on an LCD screen.
✓ Size And Weight
Size and weight is yet another noticeable difference between mirrorless and DSLR cameras. Due to the mirror mechanism the DSLR cameras are more bulky and huge in size. Whereas the mirrorless cameras are lightweight and compact. Therefore if you are into travelling photography then a mirrorless camera is more suitable as one can easily dump it into a bag or even pocket and move around easily.
✓ Battery Life
The difference between mirrorless and DSLR cameras in terms of power consumption is significant. The DSLR cameras don’t consume much power because they use an optical viewfinder, which doesn’t require any power. Therefore on a single charge you can take multiple shots. Whereas the mirrorless cameras have electronic viewfinder or LCD screens. Both these mechanisms consume power for their working. Due to which the battery drains out much faster as compared to DSLR cameras. Therefore if battery longevity is essential for you then a DSLR camera should be your choice.
✓ Lens Selection And Compatibility
DSLR cameras have been in use since decades. Due to which you get access to multiple lenses and various other accessories. Whereas the mirrorless cameras are comparatively new due to which its lens selection and accessories are still growing. Although this difference between mirrorless and DSLR cameras won’t make a big difference for the new generation. But it can be a concern for those who have been in this field for years and have an existing lens collection.
✓ Pricing
As mentioned earlier the DSLR cameras have been in use since decades due to which its production cost is lower and thus it reflects on the pricing as well. On the other hand the mirrorless cameras are pricier especially the high-end models. As they also possess some advanced features like fast autofocus, use of artificial intelligence and much more. So if you are on a budget then a DSLR camera won’t break your savings. But if you want access to the latest technology then selecting a mirrorless camera is a practical decision.
✓ Viewfinder: Optical vs Electronic
Another difference between mirrorless and DSLR cameras is that of a viewfinder. The DSLR cameras consist of optical viewfinder. The pros of this is that it provides a natural and unfiltered view of the scene. Additionally there is no lag or delay in the image which is suitable for fast action photography. Moreover with an optical viewfinder you can save battery consumption as it does not require a screen to display the image.
On the other hand with an electronic viewfinder you get to see the effects of exposure and various other settings in real time. Moreover it is very bright and clear even in low light. However it needs power to operate so it hampers battery life.
✓ Shutters
DSLR cameras use mechanical shutters so when you click a picture it makes a sound. Whereas the mirrorless cameras use electrical shutters that do not produce any sound. So depending upon your need you can make the selection. If you are into wildlife photography then it’s advisable to go for the mirrorless camera as unnecessary noise can alter your pictures.
Pros And Cons: DSLR Vs. Mirrorless
Now as you are familiar with the major difference between mirrorless and DSLR cameras, it’s time to check out their respective pros and cons.
Pros Of DSLR Cameras:
✓ With an optical viewfinder you get a real time view of the scene.
✓ Offers longer battery life.
✓ More rugged and can handle outdoor weather conditions easily.
✓ Availability of a wide range of lenses.
✓ Faster Autofocus in still photography.
✓ Bigger image sensors offer better quality pictures.
✓ Performs great in low-light situations.
Cons Of DSLR Cameras
✓ They are bulky in size as well as weight, so it can sometimes be difficult to carry them around.
✓ Slow autofocus in live view and video.
✓ The mirror flipping up and down during shoot can create noise which can be disruptive in certain environments.
Pros Of Mirrorless Cameras
✓ Portable and compact size.
✓ Accurate autofocus in both stills and video due to on-sensor phase detection.
✓ Electronic viewfinder gives preview and displays various settings for final image output.
✓ Silent operation.
✓ It includes the latest innovations, such as in-body image stabilization and 4K video capabilities.
Cons Of Mirrorless Cameras
✓ Lower battery life so not ideal for long outdoor shoots.
✓ Smaller selection of lenses and accessories.
✓ Might not perform well in low light and harsh weather conditions.
✓ They are expensive so not ideal for those who are on a budget.
Make The Choice As Per Your Needs !
Now that you clearly know about the difference between mirrorless and DSLR cameras as well as their pros and cons, it’s time to decide which one suits your photography style and needs. Although no one is superior to the other as both have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. But the main focus, that is, high quality pictures is present there in both the cameras.
