What is the Best Canon Camera in 2024? (All Budgets)

This guide will help you choose the best Canon camera for your photography in 2024.

From compact point-and-shoots to reliable DSLRs and the latest EOS R mirrorless cameras, we’ve chosen the best bang-for-your-buck models currently available.

We’ve got recommendations for all levels of photographers, no matter your budget.

(We’ll also discuss the differences between full-frame vs. APS-C sensor Canon cameras and why it’s important.)

Investing in a Canon camera opens the doors to the wonderful world of Canon EF lenses – the envy of every other brand!

So let’s have a closer look at which Canon camera is right for you.

Best Canon Cameras in 2024

Image	Product	Features
	Canon EOS R6OUR #1 CHOICE	Fast, Precise Autofocus Capture High-speed Action Advanced Image Processor Full-frame CMOS Sensor	View Price →
	Canon EOS R5HIGHLY RECOMMENDED	Wireless Capabilities Robust & Reliable 45 Megapixel CMOS Sensor Fast, Precise Autofocus	View Price →
	Canon EOS RPBEST VALUE MIRRORLESS	Optical Image Stabilization Compact & Leightweight Full-frame CMOS Sensor Easy-to-use Features	View Price →
	Canon EOS M50 Mark IIBEST MIRRORLESS FOR BEGINNERS	Clean HDMI Output Wireless Connectivity Clear Autofocus Vari-angle Touchscreen	View Price →
	Canon 5D Mark IVBEST DSLR FOR PROS	Phenomenal Performance Dual Pixel CMOS AF Continuous Shooting Stellar Image Quality	View Price →
	Canon 6D Mark IIBEST VALUE FULL FRAME DSLR	Dust & Water-resistant 4K Time-lapse Video Continuous Shooting Outstanding Image Quality	View Price →
	Canon EOS 90DBEST VALUE APS-C DSLR	High-speed Continuous Shooting Dual Pixel CMOS AF Multi-controller Customization 45-point All Cross-type AF System	View Price →
	Canon EOS Rebel SL3BEST DSLR FOR BEGINNERS	9-Point AF System Ultra-light Excellent for Beginners Compact	View Price →
	Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark IIIBEST COMPACT	Versatile Built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi Live streaming to YouTube	View Price →
	Canon IXUS 185 HSBEST BUDGET COMPACT	Easy-to-use 8x Optical Zoom Lens Great Price Light & Compact	View Price →

 

Best Canon Mirrorless Cameras

While they were a little late to the game, Canon has clarified its intentions to develop state-of-the-art mirrorless tech.

So what are the best Canon cameras in the mirrorless market?

The Canon EOS R mirrorless camera range continues to grow, with each model boasting the latest in digital and optical technology.

What’s more, the range of Canon RF lenses has grown rapidly to provide lens options for every known genre.

Mirrorless cameras are the future of camera technology and bring into question the longevity of DSLRs. Regardless of your photographic experience, there’s a Canon mirrorless camera to suit every budget and profession.

Now that Canon has ironed out the kinks in the R series, it’s the right time to invest in Canon mirrorless cameras and lenses.

1. Canon EOS R6

Competing with other manufacturers, the Canon EOS R mirrorless camera lineup is quickly expanding.

Of the existing lineup, the Canon EOS R6 is our number one pick and the best bang for your buck full-frame mirrorless camera.

(While the EOS R5 is arguably the best Canon camera spec-wise, it comes at a much higher price, making it unsuitable for most photographers.)

The Canon EOS R6 features a 20-megapixel full-frame CMOS image sensor for exceptional image and video quality – 20MP is a sweet spot that delivers big enough files but without the need for a powerful computer to process the images.

The Canon R6 Mark II features a large, bright vari-angle touchscreen and a superb electronic viewfinder delivering true-to-life optics.

Low light performance is also excellent, with an ISO sensitivity range of 100-102,400. Performance is similar to its two main rivals: the Z6II, our choice of the best Nikon camera, and the a7III, the best Sony camera.

Thanks to the lightning-fast and accurate Dual Pixel CMOS AF II autofocus system, plus the insane continuous shooting speed of 20fps, the Canon EOS R6 Mark II is the best Canon camera for fast-moving action.

Also, the effective and easy to use face-tracking feature makes the R6 popular with portrait and wedding photographers too.

• How to Change Aperture on Canon Cameras

2. Canon EOS R5

Many consider the Canon EOS 1D X Mark III as the best Canon camera since it’s the flagship professional DSLR. While it’s an exceptional piece of kit with unparalleled performance, it’s expensive, bulky, and designed for a niche market.

That being the case, what’s the best Canon camera for professional photography in 2024?

Until the rumoured Canon R3, the number one full-frame sensor Canon EOS R mirrorless camera is the Canon EOS R5.

The Canon R5 specs feature a staggering 45-megapixel full-frame CMOS image sensor capturing high-resolution still images.

When using the CFexpress card, the R5 can capture an incredible 146 full-resolution RAWs at 20 fps. If you’re recording to both card slots at once, you can expect around 104 shots before the buffer struggles to keep up.

Speaking of the cards, the need to use one SD and one CF card won’t please everyone, despite the speed gains of the CFexpress format.

For movie-makers, its ability to capture up to Raw 12-Bit DCI 8K at 30p video recording and 4K video with no crop captured the headlines. Despite recent firmware upgrades, there are still some over-heating issues when recording at 8K.

The big, bulky weather-proof body packs a huge range of useful features, unrivalled performance, and exceptional image quality – if you can afford the R5, you won’t be disappointed.

3. Canon EOS RP

Hobbyists and enthusiast photographers needing an affordable full-frame mirrorless camera need to look no further than the Canon EOS RP.

While it’s the cheapest Canon full-frame EOS R mirrorless camera, it doesn’t cut corners on features, performance, or image quality.

The lightweight Canon RP features a 26-megapixel full-frame sensor capturing high-resolution image quality and 4K video.

The small dimensions of the RP make it popular as a travel camera, but any size benefit may be offset in the current selection of large RF or adapted EF lenses. – we’d recommend smaller primes.

A significant element to the cost of any camera is in-body image stabilization. To keep the overall cost down, the RP mirrorless camera doesn’t feature a stabilization system.

While it does capture 4K high res video, it comes at a 1.6x crop factor to contain the resolution at high levels. However, the buffer in both stills and video mode is excellent.

Another great feature of the Canon RP is charging via USB and connecting as a webcam. Vloggers, streamers, and those working from home can enjoy a high-quality video feed and reliable performance.

• What are the best lenses for the Canon EOS RP?

4. Canon EOS M50 Mark II

If you don’t need all the bells and whistles of a Canon R full-frame mirrorless camera, then the Canon EOS M50 Mark II could be the best Canon camera for you.

The M50 Mark II delivers a full shooting experience through the electronic viewfinder and vari-angle touchscreen – this makes it better than the EOS M6 Mark II, which features a fixed screen and no EVF.

With its 24MP cropped APS-C sensor, Canon has kept the costs of the M50 Mark II down to suit beginner photographers or those on a tight budget.

While the Canon RP is the cheapest full-frame sensor camera on this list, it’s still out of many people’s reach – as are many of the Canon RF lenses.

Thankfully, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II provides an entry-level price point with a range of quality lenses to match.

The Dual Pixel CMOS AF (Autofocus System) delivers fast and accurate focus performance, offering eye tracking AF for both stills and videos.

However, the 4k/24p video is heavily cropped and Dual pixel AF can’t be used during video recording.

Overall though, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II is the best Canon camera for beginners (who only require an APS-C sensor) and allows access to the exciting world of EF lenses.

• Best lenses for Canon EOS M50 Mark II

Best Canon DSLR Cameras

While mirrorless cameras are the latest in digital technology, there’s still a place for Canon DSLRs.

In fact, Canon DSLR cameras are considered the most reliable in the market, making them the most popular choice for photojournalists and sports/news photographers.

Although the market is turning to mirrorless, Canon DSLRs still offer superior ergonomics, longer battery life, and big, bright optical viewfinders, making them just as relevant  in 2024.

The professional range of Canon EOS DSLR cameras is the preferred choice of many of the best photographers in the world.

The question remains: “Which Canon DSLR should I buy?”. Let’s take a closer look.

5. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

Canon has a long history of releasing professional-grade DSLR cameras that outperform many in their class.

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV has a huge userbase, with popularity in commercial, portrait, and wedding photography.

Among other accolades, the 5D Mark IV is considered the best Canon camera for people photography thanks to its impressive dual pixel autofocus system, with wide 61-point coverage and solid 7fps continuous shooting speed.

Despite the Canon 5D Mark IV being an older model, it still sells incredibly well to professional photographers – yet another sign of the reliability and credibility of the camera.

On top of the stunning 30-megapixel full-frame CMOS image sensor and DIGIC 6+ processor, it also delivers amazing battery performance. You can shoot all day on a single battery and expect to capture over 900 shots.

High ISO performance is also top-notch – many consider it the best low light camera, especially when paired with Canon’s exotic f/1.2 prime lenses.

The 5D Mark IV was also the first full-frame sensor Canon DSLRs to feature a responsive touchscreen with excellent user interface – being able to scroll through images, zoom in with your finger and choose focus points makes shooting a lot of fun.

It’s also the first camera to feature Dual Pixel Raw, allowing for some micro-adjustments when editing – useful for only a select few.

Overall, it’s a solid camera, both in build, features and reliability. Despite its age, it’s one of the best Canon DSLRs that’s ever likely to be produced.

6. Canon 6D Mark II

Where the Canon 5D Mark IV is the best DSLR for pro photographers, the Canon EOS 6D Mark II is the best value full-frame DSLR for enthusiasts.

Offering stunning 26MP image resolution, good high ISO performance, effective Dual Pixel AF, and 1,200 shot battery performance, the 6D Mark II still a great option in 2024.

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II is marginally newer than the 5D Mark IV but at around half the price!

While it lacks in-body image stabilization, the extensive Canon lens range is overflowing with stabilized options to compensate in low light conditions.

What’s more, the 6D II has fast, accurate, and reliable autofocus performance thanks to the 45-Point All-Cross type focusing system that works surprisingly well in low light.

The fully articulated touchscreen is also a nice touch, allowing you to get creating with shooting angles or attempt some vlogging.

Overall, there are plenty of great features packed into the weather-sealed, ergonomic 6D Mark II’s body, all at an attractive price point.

7. Canon EOS 90D

The Canon EOS 90D is the generational leap from the popular Canon 70D – the first Canon DSLR I shot with.

Canon’s 90D is a great value mid-range APS-C DSLR camera featuring a 33MP cropped sensor to capture stunning images.

Delivering up to 1,300 shots with a single battery the 90D can keep you shooting for longer, despite its impressivev 10 fps continuous shooting speeed.

While the Canon EOS 90D is smaller and lighter than the full-frame models, it’s still a heavy and chunky camera, especially for APS-C sensor standards.

However, that additional heft provides excellent balance when paired with the vast range of Canon EF lenses – just avoid the optically-unimpressive 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 kit lens.

A neat feature is the ability to charge the 90D via USB, and also the ability to use it as a web camera. If you’re a vlogger, streamer, or work from home, you can use it to capture and stream high-resolution video.

The 90D feels great to hold, with excellent ergonomics and a weather-sealed body. There’s an AF joystick to select AF points, mic and headphone ports, and a useful touchscreen that rotates 180 degrees.

• Best Lenses for the Canon 90D

8. Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / EOS 250 D

If you’re wondering what Canon camera is best for beginners, it’s hard to go past the Canon EOS Rebel SL3 – otherwise known as the EOS 250D.

The Rebel SL3 offers a lot for its modest price tag, making it great for students. It features a 24-megapixel cropped APS-C sensor to capture great stills and 4K video.

Its smaller size, weight, and 1,070 shot battery life make it ideal for travel or as an everyday carry camera, without sacrificying any ergonomics – the grip is comfortable, despite its smaller size.

While the Canon Rebel SL3 struggles a bit with low light conditions, it more than compensates in optimal lighting or with the addition of flash.

There’s also a useful ‘guide mode’ for beginners. Just make sure the viewfinder is big enough for your needs – those who wear glasses may struggle.

Best Canon Compact Cameras

If the larger Canon cameras are too big and complex for your needs, take a look at the top compact cameras of the year.

Compact cameras, otherwise known as point-and-shoot cameras, are small, lightweight, and often pocketable. They feature a fixed lens with a digital and/or optical zoom to cover most basic photography situations.

Their size, portability, and range of features make them ideal for (non-professional) family photography or capturing memories while on holiday.

9. Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III

Canon’s PowerShot line-up has introduced several popular models to suit a range of genres.

The Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III is a brilliant example; however, due to its high cost for a point-and-shoot, it didn’t make it to this list of best Canon cameras. (For that price, you’re better off looking at a DSLR and interchangeable lenses.)

The G7 X Mark III, however, delivers an excellent all-in-one camera and lens system at an affordable price, which is why we have classed it as our best Canon compact camera.

The 20-megapixel 1-inch BSI-CMOS image sensor and DIGIC 8 processor captures great images and 4K UHD video at 30p fps in H.264 format.

The compact camera features a fixed 24-100mm (35mm equivalent) power zoom ideal for capturing wide landscapes, portraits, and local sports events.

The f/1.8-2.8 variable aperture does a good job in blurring backgrounds and getting the most out of low light situations.

What’s most impressive about the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark III is the insanely fast 30fps continuous shooting speed, meaning you’ll never miss a moment of the action.

Just consider adding a second battery to your bag, as the battery life leaves a little to be desired.

• Best Canon flip screen camera

10. Canon IXUS 185 HS

The Canon IXUS range has diminished considerably with the rise of smartphone camera technology. However, the Canon IXUS 185 HS compact camera is still one underrated pocket shooter.

And when we say pocket, you can carry one in your jeans and forget it’s there! It’s our best budget point-and-shoot camera on the list.

The IXUS 185 HS features a 20-megapixel 1/2.3 inch CCD image sensor for great image results at an affordable price. While it captures video, it’s only able to record 720 HD footage at 25p.

One of the standout features of the Canon IXUS 185 HS is the versatile power zoom lens. The fast 28-224mm (35mm equivalent) lens captures sharp wide landscapes or distant wildlife, although there’s no fast aperture for blurring the background.

Overall, the IXUS is a fun little camera that will serve you well on holidays or as an everyday carry.

FAQ’S

What is the newest Canon camera?

The compact EOS R8 and entry-level EO

S R50 are the newest releases from Canon, announced on Feb. 7, 2023. So far, both mirrorless cameras are available for preorder on Canon’s website.

See also our Canon mirrorless camera list.

Are Canon L lenses worth it?

Yes, Canon L lenses can be worth the money if you’re a professional. They’re sturdy, and many of them are weather-sealed, so they’ll handle heavy use. Plus, they’re good for wide-open shots.

Will a Pentax lens fit Canon? (original keyword: will pentax lens fit canon)

Yes, it’s possible to use some Pentax lenses on a Canon camera if you pick a compatible manual adapter, like a Pentax K to Canon EOS (EF-S).

However, you won’t be able to use the autofocus, image stabilization, and AE metering features since the electric communication between the lens and the camera body is broken.

Are camera lenses universal?

No, there’s no standard design that makes lens mounts universal. Plus, there are technical incompatibilities to consider. For one, a mirrorless lens won’t work on a DSLR camera, even if the reverse setup works.

Are all DSLR lenses interchangeable?

Some DSLR lenses can be used interchangeably, but that’s not always the case. The mounts that work for one brand might not cut it for the other, and you’ll need an adapter.

Final Words

Since 1937, Canon has developed ground-breaking imaging products, including film cameras, digital models, and lenses. With that history and unmatched Japanese engineering comes consumer confidence and reliability.

My first DSLR was a Canon 70D, and it taught me so much about photography and my own shooting style.

It’s hard to pick the best Canon camera from their mirrorless, DSLR, and compact range, with a model to suit every level of skill, knowledge, and expertise.

Regardless of being new to digital photography or a seasoned professional looking to upgrade, there’s a Canon camera perfect for you.

What’s your choice of best Canon camera of the year? Let us know in the comments below.