Which entry-level mirrorless camera is best for under $600?

Question

Im finally getting a real camera for my trip to Seattle next month since my phone just isnt cutting it for landscape shots anymore. I have about 600 bucks to spend and Im so hyped but the options are kinda overwhelming.

I kept seeing the Sony a6000 recommended everywhere as the best starter but is that way too old for 2024? Then I looked at the Canon R100 because its newer but everyone on reddit says the fixed screen is a dealbreaker and the lenses are pricey. I just want something that takes crisp photos without being a total brick to carry around. What do you guys think is actually the best pick for under 600 right now?

EdwardRency · Accepted Answer

You might want to consider going with a Micro Four Thirds setup to stay under budget. I would suggest looking for a Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV with 14-42mm Lens because the stabilization is killer for handheld shots. Just be careful about buying brand new... prices are inflated right now. Make sure to check used sites so you have money left for a decent bag.

FearlessFrancine · Answer

Honestly, 600 bucks is a tough spot for new gear because prices have hiked recently. You are right to be cautious about the Sony Alpha a6000 with 16-50mm Lens. While its 24.3MP sensor still produces clean files, the BIONZ X processor is showing its age. You will notice slow write speeds and the autofocus system lacks the modern eye-tracking that makes shooting so much easier now. I would suggest looking at these specific trade-offs before you pull the trigger:

Canon EOS R100 with RF-S 18-45mm Lens: Be careful with this one. It is basically an EOS M50 Mark II in a different shell. The fixed screen is a genuine dealbreaker for landscape work where you often need low-angle compositions. Plus, the 1.6x crop on 4K video is pretty brutal if you plan on filming any of your trip.

Panasonic LUMIX G85 with 12-60mm Lens: If you are going to Seattle, this might be a better bet. It uses a smaller Micro Four Thirds sensor so you lose a bit of dynamic range compared to the APS-C Sony, but it is weather-sealed. Seattle rain is no joke and this is the only body in your price range that wont die from a few splashes. The 5-axis stabilization is also superior for handheld shots in low light.

Sony Alpha a6100 with 16-50mm Lens: If you can find a used or open-box deal, this is the real successor. It adds 4K and much faster tracking. Just make sure to check the battery life specs tho... these small mirrorless bodies eat through power fast. I usually carry at least two spares for a full day of shooting.

uxnrhighmj · Answer

Like someone mentioned, avoid the ancient tech. I've tried many systems, but the Canon EOS R50 with RF-S 18-45mm Lens has much better autofocus and dynamic range for your landscape shots under six hundred.