Have a hard time deciding which camera brand is best for you? Worry no more, as we’re here to help you! Whether you’re planning to buy your first digital camera or upgrade your existing one, knowing the top camera brands is essential. Choosing the right brand is important as it’ll go a long way to shaping your photography style and how you build out your kit. The best digital camera brand you choose will also influence the quality of your equipment and the range of accessories compatible with it. So, what is the best digital camera brand for you to purchase? Let’s take a closer look at our list to find out!
How To Choose The Best Digital Camera Brands
Here, we’ve put together all the important features that you should look for when you want to invest in the best digital camera brand.
Types of cameras
Before deciding which camera brand is best, you should know what kind of camera you want to buy. If you’re looking for an action camera to bring to your next hiking trip, you can check out GoPro cameras, as this brand is specialized in making amazing action cameras. Instead, if you’re looking for a mirrorless camera or a DSLR, you should look for one made by Nikon, Canon, Sony, or other brands. What about instant print cameras? Well, if that’s what you want, Kodak produces some of the best.
Size
It’s very important to check the dimensions of the digital camera you’re going to buy. Some brands focus on making compact mirrorless cameras, while others offer a wide range of cameras, like DSLRs. If your priority is having a compact camera, then look for brands like Nikon and Fujifilm produce cameras that can easily fit in your jeans pocket or small bag. But if it isn’t your priority, go for a larger model as it usually means better ergonomics and battery life.
Battery life
This one may or may not be important to you. If you travel a lot and won’t have access to a charger, or won’t be able to carry spares, look for a digital camera that has long-lasting battery life. For most people though, we charge our devices every day, so this might not be an issue.
Price
The definition of cheap is different for everyone. However, we’re here to tell you that digital cameras that cost less than 150USD aren’t going to provide the same quality images as those that cost even 50USD or 100USD more. However, for those who just want a digital camera on a budget to knock around, it might not be a problem. So, depending on your needs, you should wisely choose how much you want to spend. For easy-to-use, affordable options, you can look for Kodak cameras. But if you have more budget, we recommend getting a camera from the big-3 (Nikon, Canon, and Sony).
Which is the no 1 camera company in the world?
We think it’s safe to say that Canon is the best digital camera brand in the world right now. Its high-quality cameras boast superb picture quality, stunning performance, and advanced specifications that have stolen countless photographers’ hearts.
Casio
13
Casio might not be the first brand that pops up in your brain when you’re asking yourself what is the best digital camera brand. Originally known for excellent watches and calculators, this Japanese company also produces some compact cameras. Looking through its device range, you’ll mainly notice most of them are point-and-shoot cameras.
Just take a look at the Casio Premium High-Speed EX-100 Digital Camera. This camera has a unique dual bracketing feature that allows you to shoot 9 images with different settings, which is super convenient. The photos can be composed on a giant 3.5-inch tilting LCD display, and the settings can be adjusted quickly via a function ring around the lens. Though it can’t record 4K videos, its 1080p videos are still impressive and you can take still photos while filming.
What We Love
A nicely designed and easy-to-use point-and-shoot camera.
Pros:
- Tilting LCD display
- Dual bracketing feature
- Allows you to take still photos while filming
- Compact and lightweight
- Wi-Fi connectivity
Cons:
- Not as well-known as other cameras
Ricoh
12
Previously, Ricoh was considered by many as the best digital camera brand and one of the largest manufacturers of various types of digital cameras. Although there are many brands out there that are now bigger than Ricoh, it still proves that it’s a brand to be reckoned with. It produces plenty of great cameras for underwater photography and filming in extreme conditions, making them great for outdoor adventurers. By the way, if you’re into water sports like snorkeling, you should read more about the best underwater cameras for snorkeling!
One of Ricoh’s best cameras is none other than the Ricoh GR II Digital Camera. Featuring specs like an F2.8 lens and 16MP APS-C sensor, this camera is totally worth purchasing. The white-balance algorithm of this camera has been tweaked to improve the precision of Auto White Balance control and fine-tuning of the compensation program to prevent high-sensitivity noise. It’s also designed to accommodate a wider variety of scenes and subjects by adding new creative tools, including 6 effect modes. Best of all, it comes complete with Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity.
What We Love
Often overlooked, this camera is actually really impressive and can help you take high-quality images effortlessly.
Pros:
- Improved white-balance algorithm
- Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity
- Plenty of effect modes
- Can produce color-rich images
- Great image stabilization
Cons:
- The sensor is only 16MP
Hasselblad
11
Hasselblad is a Swedish camera brand that creates cameras and other photo equipment manually. For your information, this company produces only medium-format cameras. Considered the best digital camera brand, it’s the first company that provided the market with a mirrorless electronic medium format camera. What we like about Hasselblad cameras is that they have a lifetime warranty and maintenance.
There are some amazing cameras that you can find from this brand, but we really like the Hasselblad X1D-50c. It’s a 50MP mirrorless medium format camera, built around a 44x33mm sensor that’s 70% larger than full-frame models. By far, it’s the smallest camera to feature such a large sensor. Sitting at the center of a new system with its own family of XCD lenses, it offers adapted compatibility with older Hasselblad HC and HCD lenses.
What We Love
It’s a camera that has a lot to offer beyond just luxury appeal.
Pros:
- Outstanding 50MP sensor
- Compact
- Responsive touchscreen
- Wi-Fi connectivity
- Full TTL compatibility with recent Nikon Speedlights
Cons:
- Very expensive
Pentax
10
Are you still thinking about what is the best digital camera brand? Well, here we have Pentax, the next best digital camera brand in the world that we have on this list. It delivers a range of DSLR cameras including a medium-format DSLR. What’s more, this brand also develops a wide range of lenses to suit its full-frame and APS-C cameras. Though not as well known as other brands, its cameras are still very reliable and capable of meeting the needs of enthusiast photographers.
The Pentax K-70 DSLR Camera is probably the best all-around Pentax camera photographers can buy. What’s amazing about this item is that it’s weather-resistant! Also handy is its in-body image stabilization system with an equivalent performance of 4.5EV stops. Plus, its optical viewfinder features a near 100% field of view, which is super amazing, especially for traditionalists. With an 11 point AF system, this camera uses a hybrid combination of phase-detection AF and contrast-detection AF when shooting live view.
What We Love
It’s arguably Pentax’s best model that has many amazing features.
Pros:
- Weather-resistant
- Impressive image stabilization
- Optical viewfinder with a near 100% field of view
- Ergonomic controls
- Comes with Wi-Fi connectivity
Cons:
- The battery life isn’t the best
Kodak
9
When you’re asked which camera brand is best, you might think of Kodak. In fact, you’re not the only one. Kodak is synonymous with photography, and people can easily find plenty of amazing digital cameras made by this brand. Though it’s not as popular as it was back then, Kodak still manages to find a way to stay relevant in the photography world, and it does that by offering a range of unique instant print cameras.
Unlike DSLRs, instant print cameras are way easier to use. If you’re planning to buy one, we suggest getting the Kodak Smile Instant Print Digital Camera. Simple but effective, this camera will print out your images on Zink paper. Aside from its price tag, we also like the slide-to-open mechanism. Best of all, it lets you store images on a microSD card. And unlike other instant cameras, it doesn’t force you to print out every photo you take.
What We Love
It’s a basic but effective instant digital camera that’s extremely cheap.
Pros:
- Costs you less than 80USD
- Very easy to use and effective
- Slide-to-open mechanism
- Doesn’t force you to print out every photo you take
- Very compact
Cons:
- Slow startup
Leica
8
Those who are interested in the world of photography must be familiar with Leica. Founded in Germany back in 1914, this brand has produced world-class optics and cameras ever since. Its cameras are highly sought after, but they’re not so affordable for the mass market. After all, a good quality Leica DSLR or mirrorless camera with a couple of lenses can set you back tens of thousands of dollars! However, we have to admit that Leica engineering standards and image output are simply exceptional.
Leica doesn’t just make retro luxury cameras for the rich. The SL line sets out to offer Leica legendary design, build quality, and lenses to discerning professionals. Enter the Leica SL2 Mirrorless Full-Frame Camera. This camera uses the L-mount that’s now been adopted by brands like Panasonic for its full-frame mirrorless cameras, so there’s an increasing range of optics available. It also has an amazing sensor and in-body stabilization, allowing you to take impressive-quality images. Plus, you can also record 4K videos with this small beast.
What We Love
This is a simple, minimalist camera that’s able to produce flawless images.
Pros:
- Superb resolution
- High-speed continuous shooting
- Excellent 4K video features
- Beautiful design and interface
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Non-tilting rear touchscreen
Olympus
7
Founded in Japan way back in 1919, Olympus has been producing high-quality film and digital cameras for quite some time. Considering its efforts in making the best cameras possible, it’s not surprising that it’s labeled as the best digital camera brand in the world by its fans. Most of its digital mirrorless cameras have a very retro-inspired design to them, especially the PEN and OMD range. You can also find other models that look like a traditional DSLR in size and look. Olympus cameras are popular thanks to their overall aesthetic, compact size, and range of quality lenses to suit most photography genres and budgets.
When it comes to its cameras, our favorite has to be the Olympus OM-D E-M 10 Mark III. This dinky camera can easily fit in your pocket, making it a great travel companion. Many photographers also love how the controls never feel cramped. Although it’s marketed for beginners and casual photographers, the features buried in this camera go far beyond beginner photography. Although it still has the old 16MP sensor, it’s capable of shooting 4K video. Small, lightweight, and powerful, what’s not to like about this camera?
What We Love
It’s a mini-DSLR-style mirrorless camera that’s considered by many as a low-cost gem.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design
- The control buttons never feel cramped
- Capable of shooting 4K video
- Amazing image stabilization
- Sleek design
Cons:
- The sensor is only 16MP
GoPro
6
Which camera brand is best? Well, if what you’re after is an action camera, the go-to brand is, obviously, GoPro! Action cameras have enjoyed popularity in recent years, thanks to the trend of posting content to platforms such as YouTube. In case you didn’t know, GoPro makes a small but reliable selection of compact action cameras that are ideal for outdoor sports like kayaking, skiing, and climbing. But even if you’re not action-oriented, a camera from this best digital camera brand can make a perfect travel camera that shoots in 4K video.
The latest of the GoPro range is the best GoPro yet, but it’s also the most expensive. Introducing you to the GoPro Hero9. The key addition to this new model is the front-facing color LCD screen that allows you to frame yourself while vlogging. The resolution gets a boost too, with a 20MP stills capability and a 5K video shooting. On top of that, the Hypersmooth 3.0 video stabilization system that’s unique to this model is unbeatably smooth. By the way, make sure to also check out the best GoPro accessories!
What We Love
It’s GoPro’s ultimate action camera that has got even better.
Pros:
- Hypersmooth 3.0 video stabilization system
- Excellent 5K video
- Built-in accessory mounts
- Bigger than its previous models
- Front-facing color LCD screen
Cons:
- Not compatible with older batteries
Fujifilm
5
Some people might still think that Fujifilm is a company that creates films or old-school cameras. While it’s true, this brand is also the creators of some truly amazing digital cameras for beginners and professionals. As the best digital camera brand, it creates a range of premium compacts and highly acclaimed digital cameras. Unlike some brands, it doesn’t make full-frame cameras. Instead, it invests heavily in APS-C sensors that are smaller but arguably just as good.
Speaking of which, you should give the Fujifilm X-T2000 Mirrorless Digital Camera a look. This camera looks and feels like an old-school camera, but its features are far definitely far from old. For instance, it has a big 3.5-inch Vari-angle touchscreen with twice the resolution of most rivals and a 1:6 aspect ratio perfectly suited to video. Featuring an electronic viewfinder, you can use this camera to shoot 4K video as well as 24MP stills.
What We Love
It’s a used-to-be-pricey digital camera that’s packed with tons of awesome features.
Pros:
- Used to be expensive
- Lightweight and compact
- Vari-angle touchscreen
- Electronic viewfinder
- Can shoot 4K video and 24MP stills
Cons:
- It tends to overheat when shooting video
Panasonic
4
You’ll definitely get tons of different answers when you ask what is the best digital camera brand. That said, we’re sure Panasonic is definitely among those answers. Similar to Sony, Panasonic makes a wide range of consumer and commercial-grade electronics too. When it comes to cameras, this brand has a name for making great digital cameras and cinema-quality video cameras. Nowadays, you can easily find an exciting range of full-frame DSLRs and cropped-sensor digital cameras under the Lumix banner.
Personally, we highly recommend getting the Panasonic Lumix G85 Mirrorless Digital Camera. This mirrorless model comes with interchangeable lenses like a DSLR, but with half the bulk! It’s the perfect transitional camera with enough features to start shooting light and fast, without too much manual clutter. Among all of its features, we really fancy its dual image stabilization. You can also get a crystal-clear 4K video with a handheld shot, even in the darkest settings.
What We Love
Allows everyone to shoot sharp photos and videos even if they don’t have many experiences.
Pros:
- Can record 4K videos
- True-to-life photo details
- Post Focus mode
- Dual image stabilization
- Compact and lightweight
Cons:
- The settings and features can intimidate some beginners
Sony
3
What is the best digital camera brand? Some people may answer it’s Sony, and we understand why. This brand is well known for developing all kinds of high-tech devices. From stereos to PlayStations, you name it. Of course, it makes exceptional cameras too. Considered the best digital camera brand, it creates a selection of powerful full-frame mirrorless digital cameras that deliver incredible image quality. Don’t worry, you can find plenty of entry-level and compact cameras from this brand too. Designed with aesthetics and performance in mind, its cameras are definitely worth buying.
Speaking of Sony cameras, one of the best cameras it has ever made is the Sony a7 III Mirrorless Camera. Despite being the company’s entry-level camera, it’s still the model that has caused lots of waves in the camera industry since it was first released. Featuring Sony 24.2MP BSI full-frame image sensor, this camera can produce sharp, vivid, and contrasty images with tons of dynamic range. If you’re someone who appreciates the ability to shoot silently, you’ll be thrilled to know that there’s a Silent Shutter Mode. Plus, it allows you to shoot more than 1,700 photos on just one battery!
What We Love
It’s a great pick for those who want an entry-level camera with tons of modern features.
Pros:
- Impressive image quality
- Tilting touchscreen LCD
- Dual SD card slots
- 10fps continuous shooting
- Good wireless connectivity
- Amazing battery life
Cons:
- The menu can be a bit confusing
Nikon
2
Much like Canon, Nikon has been in the business of making cameras for decades. As a brand that’s loved by many and considered the best digital camera brand in the world, it makes a vast range of pro-level DSLR cameras. Wondering which camera brand is best for beginners? Lucky for you, Nikon also makes tons of entry-level cameras. What’s more, Nikon has an extensive range of lenses for their DSLRs. On top of that, many third-party companies also make amazing lenses to pair with a Nikon camera. When it comes to image quality and performance, this brand’s cameras are easily among the best.
If you want to buy a Nikon camera, we recommend getting the Nikon Z50 Mirrorless Camera. This camera is very compact, but despite its small size, it has a good grip and external controls. Plus, the retracting 16-50mm kit lens is remarkable not just for its pancake lens dimensions but also for its overall performance. Want to record 4K videos? No problem, as it can also do that! Featuring a 20.9MP sensor, this camera is a terrific value, especially when bought as a twin-lens kit.
What We Love
It’s Nikon’s first APS-C mirrorless camera that offers outstanding image quality.
Pros:
- Compact body and kit lens
- 4K video and 11fps shooting
- Great for vlogging
- Beginner-friendly
- In-camera trimming
- Flippable LCD screen
Cons:
- No in-body stabilization
Canon
1
Canon is the best digital camera brand that’s currently seen as the leader in the camera space. Founded back in 1937, this brand is most known for its high-quality DSLRs and DSLR lens lineup. Apart from that, it also has tons of achievements across the 20th century. This brand was the first company to include a micro-computer in a camera, the first company to produce a camera with eye-controlled AF, and the first company to produce an image-stabilized lens available to the masses. With all of its accolades, there’s no wonder it’s seen by many as the best digital camera brand in the world.
That said, one of its best cameras is none other than the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Full Frame DSLR Camera. This high-end model features a 30.4MP full-frame CMOS sensor for versatile shooting and up to 7.0fps continuous shooting speed. It’s also able to record 4K videos, so you can say goodbye to low-resolution videos! Not to mention, you can use the EOS Utility Camera Beta Software to turn this camera into a high-quality webcam!
What We Love
It’s Canon’s flagship full-frame camera that offers everything you possibly need.
Pros:
- Full-frame sensor
- 4K video recording
- Can be used as a webcam
- 7.0fps continuous shooting speed
- Wide dynamic range
- Intelligent Viewfinder II
Cons:
- Expensive
