The Best APS-C Cameras in 2024: Top Picks for Photographers
APS-C sensor cameras remain a popular choice in 2024 due to their blend of performance, portability, and affordability. These cameras offer excellent image quality and advanced features, catering to a wide range of photographers, from beginners to professionals. In this guide, we’ll explore the top APS-C cameras available in 2024, comparing their key features, pros, and cons to help you find the perfect match for your photography needs.
What is an APS-C Sensor?
APS-C (Advanced Photo System type-C) sensors are smaller than full-frame sensors but larger than micro four-thirds sensors, striking a balance between performance and price. APS-C sensors offer several advantages:
- Better depth of field: Due to the crop factor (typically 1.5x or 1.6x), these cameras offer more depth of field, which is beneficial for landscape and street photography.
- Portability: APS-C cameras tend to be smaller and lighter than full-frame models, making them easier to carry.
- Affordable lenses: Lenses for APS-C cameras are generally more affordable than those designed for full-frame models.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing an APS-C Camera
- Autofocus Performance: The number of autofocus (AF) points and the type of AF system (phase-detection, contrast-detection, etc.) will impact how quickly and accurately the camera focuses.
- Image Resolution: Higher megapixels are important for printing large photos or cropping images without losing detail.
- Video Capabilities: If you plan on shooting video, look for features like 4K resolution, high frame rates, and in-body stabilization.
- Lens Selection: A good range of lenses will expand your creative options. Ensure that the camera brand offers a variety of APS-C lenses.
- Price: APS-C cameras come in a range of prices, so it’s essential to balance your budget with the features you need.
APS-C Camera Comparison Table: Sensor, Resolution, AF Points, Video, Price, and Description
| Model | Sensor | Resolution | AF Points | Video | Approximate Price (USD) | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canon EOS Rebel T100 | APS-C CMOS | 18MP | 9 points | Full HD | $300 – $350 | Affordable and easy-to-use option, ideal for beginners. |
| Canon EOS Rebel T7 | APS-C CMOS | 24.1MP | 9 points | Full HD | $320 – $370 | Solid and reliable option, with a classic and user-friendly design. |
| Canon EOS R100 | APS-C CMOS | 24.2MP | 143 points | 4K/24p | $350 – $400 | Excellent value for money, versatile with a fast autofocus system. |
| Sony ZV-E10 | APS-C Exmor | 24.2MP | 425 points | 4K/30p | $550 – $600 | Designed for content creators, featuring eye autofocus and a flip-out screen. |
| Canon EOS R50 | APS-C CMOS | 24.2MP | 651 points | 4K/30p | $550 – $600 | Compact and lightweight mirrorless camera, ideal for everyday photography and videography. |
| Sony a6400 | APS-C Exmor | 24.2MP | 425 points | 4K/30p | $700 – $750 | Versatile camera with fast, precise autofocus, perfect for action photography and video. |
| Panasonic Lumix LX100 II | Micro Four Thirds | 17.0MP | – | 4K/30p | $750 – $800 | Compact camera with a Micro Four Thirds sensor and Leica lens, ideal for creative and street photography. |
| FUJIFILM X-T30 II | APS-C X-Trans CMOS | 26.1MP | 425 points | 4K/60p | $850 – $900 | Exceptional image quality with a retro design, featuring a unique X-Trans sensor. |
| Ricoh GR III | APS-C CMOS | 24.2MP | – | 4K/30p | $950 – $1000 | Premium compact camera with a fixed 28mm lens, ideal for street and travel photography. |
| FUJIFILM X100VI | APS-C X-Trans CMOS 5 HR | 40.2MP | – | 4K/60p | $1599 | High-end compact camera with a fixed 23mm f/2 lens, offering a 35mm full-frame equivalent focal length. Perfect for street photography and everyday shooting. |
| Canon EOS R7 | APS-C CMOS | 32.5MP | 651 points | 4K/60p | $1100 – $1150 | High-performance camera with a high-resolution sensor and fast autofocus, perfect for demanding photographers and videographers. |
| Sony a6700 | APS-C Exmor | 24.2MP | 425 points | 4K/60p | $1200 – $1250 | High-end camera with a high-resolution sensor and next-generation autofocus system. |
| Sony RX100 VII | 1.0-type stacked CMOS | 20.1MP | 357 points | 4K/30p | $1050 – $1100 | Compact camera with a 20x optical zoom and 1.0-type sensor, ideal for versatile photography. |
APS-C vs. Full-Frame: Is APS-C Still Worth It in 2024?
While full-frame cameras offer better low-light performance and a shallower depth of field, APS-C cameras still have distinct advantages:
- Cost: APS-C cameras and lenses are generally more affordable than their full-frame counterparts.
- Size and Weight: APS-C cameras are lighter and more compact, making them ideal for travel and street photography.
- Crop Factor: The crop factor can actually be a benefit for certain types of photography, such as wildlife and sports, where extra reach is advantageous.
If you don’t need the extra performance that full-frame sensors provide, APS-C cameras are more than capable of delivering high-quality images and videos in 2024.
Lens Selection for APS-C Cameras
One of the key benefits of APS-C cameras is the wide range of lenses available. From zoom lenses for landscape photography to fast primes for portraits, manufacturers like Canon, Sony, Fujifilm, and Nikon offer a diverse selection tailored to APS-C systems. Additionally, third-party manufacturers such as Sigma and Tamron offer excellent lenses compatible with APS-C cameras.
Some of the top lenses to consider for APS-C cameras include:
- Canon RF-S 18-150mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM (for Canon mirrorless APS-C cameras): A versatile zoom lens ideal for travel and general photography.
- Sony 16-55mm f/2.8 G (for Sony E-mount): A sharp, constant-aperture zoom lens that’s perfect for everyday use.
- Fujinon XF 35mm f/1.4 R (for Fujifilm X-series): A fast prime lens with excellent bokeh, ideal for portrait and street photography.
Finding the Right APS-C Camera for You
1. Best Camera for Street Photography: Ricoh GR III
- Sensor: APS-C CMOS
- Resolution: 24.2MP
- Price: $950 – $1000
- Why It’s Perfect: Compact, lightweight, and pocketable, the Ricoh GR III is ideal for street photography. Its 28mm fixed lens offers a natural perspective, while the APS-C sensor delivers excellent image quality. Fast autofocus and a minimalist design allow you to shoot quickly and discreetly, capturing candid moments with ease.
2. Best Camera for Travel Photography: FUJIFILM X100VI
- Sensor: APS-C X-Trans CMOS 5 HR
- Resolution: 40.2MP
- Price: $1599
- Why It’s Perfect: The FUJIFILM X100VI’s compact size and high-resolution sensor make it an ideal travel companion. Its 23mm f/2 lens (35mm full-frame equivalent) is versatile enough for landscapes, cityscapes, and portraits. With vintage styling and modern performance, it’s the perfect balance of style and portability for travelers.
3. Best Camera for Portrait Photography: Canon EOS R7
- Sensor: APS-C CMOS
- Resolution: 32.5MP
- Price: $1100 – $1150
- Why It’s Perfect: The Canon EOS R7’s high-resolution sensor and fast autofocus system make it a powerful tool for portrait photographers. Paired with prime lenses, it creates beautiful depth of field and bokeh, emphasizing details and skin tones. The 32.5MP resolution allows for detailed images, great for large prints and professional work.
4. Best Camera for Beginners: Canon EOS Rebel T7
- Sensor: APS-C CMOS
- Resolution: 24.1MP
- Price: $320 – $370
- Why It’s Perfect: The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is an easy-to-use DSLR, perfect for beginners looking to learn the fundamentals of photography. Its simple controls, excellent image quality, and affordable price make it a great entry-level camera. The T7 is versatile enough for all kinds of photography, from landscapes to portraits, allowing newcomers to explore different styles.
5. Best Camera for Sports Photography: Sony a6700
- Sensor: APS-C Exmor
- Resolution: 24.2MP
- Price: $1200 – $1250
- Why It’s Perfect: The Sony a6700 is a high-end APS-C camera that excels in sports photography. Its 425-point autofocus system, combined with real-time tracking and eye autofocus, ensures you won’t miss a shot, even with fast-moving subjects. It can shoot up to 11 frames per second, making it perfect for action photography. Additionally, the 4K/60p video capability and advanced processor make it a great tool for both photos and video.
