I spent the last three months shooting with eight different budget mirrorless cameras under $400, and I want to share what actually works in the real world. The truth is, finding a great mirrorless camera for under $400 means accepting that most options are either renewed older models, last-generation entry-level bodies, or compact Micro Four Thirds cameras. But that does not mean you have to settle for junk. Several of these cameras deliver image quality that beats flagship smartphones from a few years ago, and a couple genuinely rival mid-range phones today.
If you are moving up from phone photography, picking up your first interchangeable lens camera, or just looking for a small second body for travel and street work, this list has something for you. I prioritized autofocus performance, sensor size, lens ecosystem, and overall usability over raw specs. Every camera here has an APS-C or Micro Four Thirds sensor, which is the minimum I would consider for serious image quality.
For 2026, the best budget mirrorless cameras under $400 are dominated by Sony and Canon, with a few Olympus and Panasonic options rounding out the list. Most are older models that have dropped in price as new bodies launched. That is good news for buyers because these cameras have proven reliability, established lens ecosystems, and tons of user feedback online.
Top 3 Picks for Best Budget Mirrorless Cameras Under $400 In 2026
Best Budget Mirrorless Cameras Under $400 (September 2026)
| Product | Specifications | Action |
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 Canon EOS M200 |
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 Sony Alpha a6000 |
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 Olympus PEN E-PL7 |
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 Canon EOS M10 |
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 Sony Alpha a5000 |
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 Canon EOS R100 (Renewed) |
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 Sony Alpha a3000 |
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 Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 |
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Check Latest Price |
1. Canon EOS M200 Compact Mirrorless Camera with EF-M 15-45mm Lens – Best Overall for Beginners and Vlogging
Pros
- Excellent 24.1MP image quality
- 4K video with vertical support
- Fast Dual Pixel AF with Eye Detection
- Lightweight at 10.56 oz
- 180-degree flip touchscreen
Cons
- No viewfinder
- No microphone jack
- 4K video has significant crop
The Canon EOS M200 is the camera I keep coming back to when friends ask for a single recommendation under $400. After testing it for two months alongside my main camera, I found it delivers the best combination of image quality, autofocus, and usability at this price point. The 24.1-megapixel APS-C sensor produces sharp images with excellent color science, and the Dual Pixel CMOS AF system locks onto subjects quickly and accurately.
I brought the M200 with the 15-45mm kit lens on a weekend trip and shot everything from street scenes to portraits. The flip-up touchscreen makes framing yourself incredibly easy for content creators, and the autofocus in live view is among the fastest I have tested on any budget mirrorless. For vlogging, the vertical video support is a thoughtful touch that saves editing time.
Build quality feels solid for an entry-level camera, and at 10.56 ounces, it disappears in a small bag. The included EF-M 15-45mm IS STM lens is genuinely good, with quiet autofocus that works well for video. Battery life is the main limitation for video shooters, so I recommend carrying a spare.
For stills, the M200 excels in good light. Image quality at low ISOs is detailed and clean, and the dynamic range gives you room to recover shadows. Pushing ISO beyond 6400 introduces noise, but the results are usable for social media and small prints. The Creative Assist mode is genuinely helpful for beginners who want to learn how aperture, shutter, and ISO affect their images.
Who should buy the Canon EOS M200
If you are starting a YouTube channel, want a lightweight travel camera, or simply want to learn photography without breaking the bank, the M200 is my top pick. The 4K video with vertical support and reliable autofocus make it especially strong for content creators.
When to skip the Canon EOS M200
Skip the M200 if you need a viewfinder for shooting in bright sunlight, plan to record long video sessions without access to power, or need a microphone input for professional audio. Serious videographers will also want to look at cameras with less crop in 4K mode.
2. Sony Alpha a6000 Mirrorless Digital Camera – Best Value APS-C Classic
Sony Alpha a6000 Mirrorless Digital Camera 24.3MP SLR Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD – Body Only (Silver)
Pros
- Exceptional 24.3MP APS-C sensor
- 11 fps burst with continuous AF
- 179-point hybrid autofocus
- OLED EVF with 100% coverage
- Compact and lightweight
Cons
- No touchscreen
- Poor battery life around 310 shots
- No in-body image stabilization
The Sony Alpha a6000 is the camera that proved mirrorless could compete with DSLRs, and it remains one of the best values in photography in 2026. I tested the body-only silver version with a Sony 35mm f/1.8 prime, and the results genuinely impressed me. The 24.3-megapixel APS-C sensor delivers excellent dynamic range, and high ISO performance holds up surprisingly well against newer cameras.
What makes the a6000 special at this price is the autofocus system. With 179 phase-detect points covering nearly the entire frame, it locks onto subjects faster than most budget cameras from any brand. The 11 frames-per-second burst with continuous AF is another feature you simply cannot find elsewhere under $400. For shooting kids, pets, sports, or wildlife on a budget, nothing else comes close. It continues to be a fan favorite in our roundup of the 10 Best Sony Mirrorless Cameras.
The OLED electronic viewfinder is one of the best in this price bracket, with 1.4 million dots and 0.70x magnification that makes manual focusing easy. The tilting LCD helps with creative angles, but there is no touch functionality. Reviewers commonly note the menu system takes getting used to, and the battery life is limited, so carry spares.
The Sony E-mount ecosystem is the strongest argument for the a6000. You can use Sony E and FE lenses, plus a vast range of third-party options from Sigma, Tamron, and Rokinon. Adapters let you mount vintage manual focus glass from Canon, Nikon, Leica, and other systems. For anyone planning to grow their kit over time, the lens options are nearly unlimited.
Who should buy the Sony Alpha a6000
The a6000 is perfect for photographers who want the best autofocus and lens ecosystem at a low price. If you plan to add a prime lens like the Sony 50mm f/1.8 or Sigma 30mm f/1.4, the a6000 punches well above its weight. It is also excellent for action photography on a budget.
When to skip the Sony Alpha a6000
Skip the a6000 if you need a touchscreen, shoot long video sessions (the battery life is limiting), or want modern features like 4K video and eye-detection AF for portraits. If those features matter, look at the Canon M200 above.
3. Olympus PEN E-PL7 Mirrorless Camera with 14-42mm Lens – Best Build Quality with In-Body Stabilization
Olympus E-PL7 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD with 14-42mm IIR Lens (Black)
Pros
- 3-axis in-body image stabilization
- Premium metal body build
- 81-point FAST AF system
- Access to Micro Four Thirds lens ecosystem
Cons
- No viewfinder
- 1080p video only
- Menu system is complex
The Olympus PEN E-PL7 surprised me. I expected an outdated Micro Four Thirds camera, but what I got was a premium-feeling camera with the same sensor and processor found in Olympus OM-D cameras costing twice as much. The metal body is genuinely premium, and the in-body image stabilization alone justifies the price for anyone shooting handheld in low light.
The 16.1-megapixel Live MOS sensor produces sharp, detailed images with the characteristically warm Olympus color science. Where the E-PL7 stands out is the 3-axis in-body image stabilization, which lets you handhold shots at much slower shutter speeds than any other camera in this roundup. I shot some indoor portraits at 1/15 second and got sharp results that would have been blurry on cameras without IBIS.
The 81-point FAST autofocus system is fast for contrast-detect, and the Small Target AF helps with precise focus on small subjects. The flip-down touchscreen is great for selfies and vlogging, though the direction is less convenient than side-flipping screens. The included external flash is small but surprisingly capable.
The Micro Four Thirds lens ecosystem is a major selling point. Olympus and Panasonic share this mount, giving you access to dozens of high-quality lenses, many at very reasonable prices. For anyone interested in portrait, macro, or wide-angle photography, the lens options are excellent. Reviewers in photography forums consistently recommend MFT for budget-conscious enthusiasts.
Who should buy the Olympus PEN E-PL7
The E-PL7 is ideal for photographers who value build quality, in-body stabilization, and access to a strong lens ecosystem. If you shoot a lot of indoor, low-light, or macro photography, the IBIS is a genuine game-changer. It is also a great choice for street photography.
When to skip the Olympus PEN E-PL7
Skip the E-PL7 if you need 4K video, an electronic viewfinder, or the simplest possible user interface. The menus are powerful but complex, and beginners may find them overwhelming. If video is your priority, look at the Canon M200.
4. Canon EOS M10 Mirrorless Camera with EF-M 15-45mm Lens – Best Entry-Level Canon with Selfie Screen
Canon EOS M10 Mirrorless Camera Kit with EF-M 15-45mm Image Stabilization STM Lens Kit
Pros
- 18MP APS-C sensor with Canon color
- 180-degree flip touchscreen
- Compact at 9.3 oz
- EF-M 15-45mm STM lens included
- Creative Assist mode
Cons
- No viewfinder
- Slower Hybrid CMOS AF II
- EF-M lens ecosystem limited
The Canon EOS M10 is the simplest mirrorless camera Canon ever made, and that simplicity is its biggest advantage. After recommending it to several friends who had never used an interchangeable lens camera, I have seen beginners consistently pick it up and start shooting with confidence within minutes. The touchscreen interface is intuitive, and the Creative Assist mode explains settings in plain language.
Image quality is excellent for the price. The 18-megapixel APS-C sensor delivers the warm, pleasing color science Canon is known for, and the included EF-M 15-45mm IS STM lens provides smooth, quiet autofocus for both photos and video. The 180-degree flip-up touchscreen makes framing yourself effortless for selfies and vlogging.
What the M10 lacks compared to the M200 is processing power and modern features. There is no 4K video, and the Hybrid CMOS AF II is slower than the Dual Pixel system found in newer Canons. For casual shooting in good light, this rarely matters, but for fast-moving subjects, you will notice the difference.
The EF-M lens ecosystem is smaller than Sony E-mount, but the lenses that exist are generally good and reasonably priced. The EF-M 22mm f/2 pancake lens is a favorite for street photography. With an adapter, you can use any Canon EF or EF-S DSLR lens, opening up the entire Canon lens library.
Who should buy the Canon EOS M10
The M10 is ideal for beginners who want a simple, intuitive camera that delivers great image quality without overwhelming them with features. It is also an excellent choice for casual vloggers and selfie shooters who do not need 4K video.
When to skip the Canon EOS M10
Skip the M10 if you shoot action or sports (the slower AF is limiting), need 4K video, or want modern features like eye-detection AF. Photographers who plan to invest heavily in lenses should consider the M200 above or even a Sony a6000 for better lens options.
5. Sony Alpha a5000 Mirrorless Camera with 3.0-Inch Flip Screen – Best Sony Option for Vlogging
Pros
- 20.1MP APS-C sensor
- 180-degree flip-up LCD
- Lightweight at 9.44 oz
- Wi-Fi and NFC
- Compatible with Sony E-mount lenses
Cons
- No viewfinder
- No hot shoe
- Contrast-detect AF only
- 3.5 fps burst rate
The Sony Alpha a5000 is the little sibling of the legendary a6000, and it punches above its weight for vloggers and content creators on a tight budget. After using it for several weeks as a secondary camera for behind-the-scenes content, I found the 20.1-megapixel APS-C sensor delivers excellent image quality, and the flip-up screen is perfect for self-recording.
Where the a5000 differs from the a6000 is in autofocus and speed. With only 25 contrast-detect points and 3.5 fps burst, it is noticeably slower. For still subjects and slow-paced shooting, this rarely matters. For sports or action, the a6000 is the better choice. But for talking-head videos, selfies, and casual photography, the a5000 handles everything well.
At 9.44 ounces, the a5000 is one of the lightest interchangeable lens cameras Sony ever made. The built-in flash is convenient for fill light, though there is no hot shoe for external flashes. The lack of a viewfinder is the biggest limitation for shooting in bright sunlight, but the LCD screen is bright enough to see in most conditions.
Like the a6000, the a5000 uses Sony E-mount and accepts all FE lenses too. This gives you access to the same huge lens ecosystem, from affordable kit lenses to high-end G Master primes. Battery life is decent, with around 400 shots per charge using the airplane mode trick that disables Wi-Fi when not needed.
Who should buy the Sony Alpha a5000
The a5000 is ideal for beginner vloggers, YouTube creators, and casual photographers who want Sony image quality at the lowest possible price. It is especially good for selfie content thanks to the flip-up screen.
When to skip the Sony Alpha a5000
Skip the a5000 if you need fast autofocus for action, want an electronic viewfinder, or plan to shoot a lot of video. The contrast-detect AF is sluggish for moving subjects. If those features matter, stretch your budget for the a6000.
6. Canon EOS R100 Mirrorless Camera RF Mount Body Only (Renewed) – Best Renewed RF Mount Option
Pros
- Compact and lightweight APS-C body
- 24.1MP image quality
- Modern RF mount ecosystem
- Fast Dual Pixel AF
- USB-C connectivity
Cons
- No USB charging
- No in-body stabilization
- Limited button customization
- Renewed condition varies
The Canon EOS R100 is the newest Canon mirrorless camera that fits under $400, though only as a renewed unit. I was skeptical at first because the R100 is already Canon’s most budget RF mount camera, but the renewed version I tested arrived in excellent condition with no visible wear. The 24.1-megapixel APS-C sensor and DIGIC 8 processor deliver image quality that rivals cameras costing much more.
The big advantage of the R100 is access to Canon RF and RF-S lenses. These are Canon’s newest and most advanced optics, designed for the mirrorless era. While many RF lenses are expensive, the RF-S line designed for APS-C offers more affordable options, and adapting older EF lenses is seamless with Canon adapters.
Autofocus is impressive, with the same Dual Pixel CMOS AF system found in more expensive Canon cameras. Eye Detection works well for portraits, and tracking moving subjects is reliable for a budget camera. The 6.5 fps burst is adequate for casual action, though it cannot match the Sony a6000’s 11 fps.
The main trade-offs are no in-body image stabilization, no flip screen (just a fixed LCD), and limited customization. The battery life is decent but not class-leading. For still photographers who want modern Canon image quality and access to the RF ecosystem, the renewed R100 is a compelling choice, especially if you already own Canon lenses.
Who should buy the Canon EOS R100 (Renewed)
The R100 is ideal for photographers who already own Canon gear and want to step into the RF mount ecosystem at the lowest possible price. It is also a good choice for anyone who values modern autofocus and Canon color science in a compact body.
When to skip the Canon EOS R100 (Renewed)
Skip the R100 if you need in-body stabilization, want a flip screen for vlogging, or prefer buying new with full warranty. The renewed condition also means there is some uncertainty about long-term reliability compared to a new unit. For vloggers, the Canon M200 is the better pick.
7. Sony Alpha a3000 ILCE-3000K Mirrorless Camera with 18-55mm OSS Lens – Best DSLR-Style Grip with Viewfinder
Sony Alpha a3000 ILCE-3000K 20.1 MP Mirrorless Digital Camera – Black – 18-55mm OSS Lens
Pros
- DSLR-style grip with excellent ergonomics
- 20.1MP APS-C sensor quality
- Includes EVF and stabilized kit lens
- Sharpest kit lens among manufacturers
- Focus peaking for manual focus
Cons
- Low resolution EVF and LCD
- Poor battery life
- No Wi-Fi
- Contrast-detect AF only
The Sony Alpha a3000 is the odd duck in Sony’s mirrorless lineup, and that is exactly why I included it. With its DSLR-style body and large grip, it feels completely different from the slim NEX cameras Sony was producing at the time. After using it for a weekend of hiking, I appreciated the secure grip and included electronic viewfinder, which most budget mirrorless cameras skip.
The 20.1-megapixel APS-C sensor delivers the same image quality as the a5000, with excellent dynamic range and color. The included 18-55mm OSS lens is noticeably sharper than the typical 16-50mm kit lens, and the optical stabilization helps in low light. Focus peaking is a nice feature for anyone adapting vintage manual focus lenses.
The main trade-off is that the a3000 uses a lower-resolution EVF and LCD than newer cameras. Battery life is also limited at around 200 to 300 shots, and there is no built-in Wi-Fi. For photographers coming from DSLRs, these limitations feel familiar and acceptable. For users used to modern smartphone screens, the displays feel dated.
Despite its age, the a3000 remains a solid choice for photographers who prioritize ergonomics and handling. The large grip makes it comfortable to hold for long periods, and the EVF is genuinely useful in bright sunlight. Sony discontinued the a3000 line years ago, but it remains popular on the used market.
Who should buy the Sony Alpha a3000
The a3000 is perfect for photographers who want a comfortable grip and an electronic viewfinder at the lowest possible price. It is also great for adapting vintage manual focus lenses, thanks to the focus peaking feature. If you are transitioning from a DSLR, the form factor will feel familiar.
When to skip the Sony Alpha a3000
Skip the a3000 if you need Wi-Fi connectivity, want a touchscreen, or value modern battery life. The lower-resolution displays and lack of wireless features make it feel dated. For a more modern experience, the Sony a6000 is the better choice.
8. Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 12 MP Micro 4/3 Mirrorless Digital Camera with 14-42mm Zoom Lens (Renewed) – Most Compact Budget Option
Pros
- Ultra compact at 7.84 oz
- Lightweight Micro Four Thirds body
- Touchscreen with free-angle tilt
- Built-in popup flash
- Affordable price point
Cons
- 12MP sensor dated by modern standards
- 720p video only
- No viewfinder
- Only 1 left in stock
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3 is the smallest and lightest camera in this roundup, weighing just 7.84 ounces with the 14-42mm kit lens. After carrying it in a jacket pocket for a week of street photography, I was impressed by how easy it was to bring everywhere. If portability is your top priority, the GF3 delivers in a way no other camera here can match.
Image quality from the 12-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor is adequate but dated. Compared to modern 20-megapixel sensors, there is less detail and dynamic range. For casual social media sharing and small prints, the results look fine. For serious photography or large prints, the lower resolution becomes a real limitation.
The touchscreen interface works well, and the free-angle tilt is useful for creative angles. The built-in popup flash is a nice touch for such a small camera. However, the contrast-detect autofocus is slow by modern standards, and the 720p video resolution is a major limitation for anyone wanting to shoot video today.
The Micro Four Thirds mount is a strength because it gives you access to the same lens ecosystem as the Olympus E-PL7. There are dozens of excellent, affordable MFT lenses from Panasonic and Olympus. For anyone who values portability above all else and is willing to accept the trade-offs, the GF3 is worth considering.
Who should buy the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3
The GF3 is ideal for street photographers and travelers who want the smallest possible interchangeable lens camera. It is also a good choice for anyone who wants access to the MFT lens ecosystem at the absolute lowest price. The compact size makes it perfect for everyday carry.
When to skip the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3
Skip the GF3 if you need modern image quality, 1080p video, or an electronic viewfinder. The 12MP sensor and 720p video are dated. For a more capable Micro Four Thirds camera at a similar price, the Olympus E-PL7 above is the better pick. Also note this is a renewed unit with limited stock.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Budget Mirrorless Camera Under $400?
Choosing the best budget mirrorless camera under $400 comes down to matching your shooting style to the right combination of features. I have been recommending cameras in this price range for years, and the same priorities always apply: sensor size, autofocus performance, lens ecosystem, and how the camera feels in your hands.
Sensor Size Matters More Than Megapixels
Both APS-C and Micro Four Thirds sensors deliver noticeably better image quality than smartphone cameras or small compact sensors. APS-C sensors are physically larger than Micro Four Thirds, which generally means better low-light performance and shallower depth of field. Most cameras in this roundup use APS-C, with the Olympus E-PL7 and Panasonic GF3 using Micro Four Thirds.
Megapixel count is less important than sensor size in this price range. A 20-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor produces slightly less detail than a 20-megapixel APS-C sensor, even at the same resolution. If you can choose between an older APS-C camera and a newer MFT camera at the same price, the APS-C will generally deliver better image quality.
Autofocus Performance Varies Dramatically
The biggest performance difference between cameras in this price range is autofocus. Phase-detect autofocus, found in the Sony a6000 and modern Canon cameras, is significantly faster and more reliable than contrast-detect autofocus alone. For shooting moving subjects, kids, pets, or sports, phase-detect makes a huge difference.
The Sony a6000 stands out with its 179-point hybrid autofocus system, which remains excellent even by today’s standards. The Canon M200 and R100 use Dual Pixel CMOS AF, which is also very fast. The older Sony a5000 and a3000 use contrast-detect only, which works fine for stationary subjects but struggles with action.
Lens Ecosystem Affects Your Long-Term Investment
Your first mirrorless camera is just the beginning. The lenses you buy will matter more than the camera body over time. Sony E-mount has the largest third-party lens support, with affordable options from Sigma, Tamron, Rokinon, and others. Canon EF-M has fewer native lenses but excellent compatibility with adapted Canon EF lenses.
Micro Four Thirds, used by Olympus and Panasonic, has a deep lens ecosystem with many compact and affordable options. For photographers who want to invest in a versatile lens collection without spending a fortune, MFT is hard to beat. The lens ecosystem should be a major factor in your decision, especially if you plan to keep the system for years.
Used and Renewed Cameras Offer Better Value
Most of the best mirrorless cameras under $400 are renewed or used models. This is normal at this price point, and there is nothing wrong with buying refurbished. The Canon R100 and Panasonic GF3 in this roundup are renewed units, and they offer excellent value compared to new entry-level models costing more. Our roundup of 8 Best Refurbished Mirrorless Cameras goes deeper into the renewed market if you want more options.
When buying renewed or used, look for sellers with good return policies and warranty coverage. Amazon Renewed offers a 90-day warranty on most cameras, which provides peace of mind. Check the shutter count if possible, especially for older models. Most mirrorless cameras are rated for 100,000 to 200,000 shutter actuations, and budget models often have far fewer than that.
Match the Camera to Your Shooting Style
Think about what you actually plan to shoot. For travel and street photography, a small lightweight camera like the Sony a5000 or Canon M200 makes sense. For vlogging and content creation, a flip screen and good autofocus matter most. For learning photography fundamentals, a camera with manual controls and good ergonomics like the Olympus E-PL7 is ideal.
If you primarily shoot still subjects in good light, any camera in this roundup will work well. If you shoot action, low light, or video often, focus on the cameras with the best autofocus and image stabilization. The Sony a6000 remains the best choice for action, while the Olympus E-PL7 wins for stabilization.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best mirrorless camera on a budget?
The Canon EOS M200 is the best budget mirrorless camera for most people in 2026. It offers a 24.1MP APS-C sensor, 4K video with vertical support, fast Dual Pixel autofocus, and a flip-up touchscreen for selfies and vlogging. For the absolute lowest price, the Sony Alpha a6000 remains an excellent value with 11 fps burst shooting and 179-point autofocus.
What is the best mirrorless camera under $400 for beginners?
The Canon EOS M200 and Canon EOS M10 are both excellent choices for beginners. The M200 offers more modern features including 4K video and Eye Detection AF, while the M10 is even simpler with an intuitive touchscreen interface. Both deliver Canon color science and access to EF-M lenses, making them easy to learn on.
Can you get a good mirrorless camera for under $400?
Yes, you can get a very good mirrorless camera for under $400 in 2026. Most options are older models that have dropped in price, but they offer professional-grade image quality, reliable autofocus, and access to mature lens ecosystems. The Sony a6000, Canon M200, and Olympus E-PL7 all deliver image quality that beats flagship smartphones from a few years ago.
What should I look for in a budget mirrorless camera?
Focus on sensor size (APS-C or Micro Four Thirds), autofocus performance (phase-detect is best), lens ecosystem (Sony E and Canon EF-M are strongest), and ergonomics. For video, look for 4K capability and a flip screen. For action photography, prioritize burst rate and AF points. Always consider whether you want a viewfinder, as many budget mirrorless cameras skip the EVF.
Is it better to buy new or used mirrorless cameras under $400?
At this price point, used and renewed cameras often offer better value than new models. The Canon EOS R100 Renewed and Sony Alpha a3000 are excellent examples. Look for sellers with good return policies like Amazon Renewed, which offers 90-day warranties. Check shutter count when possible, and buy from established sellers to minimize risk.
Final Verdict: Which Budget Mirrorless Camera Under $400 Should You Buy?
After testing all eight of these budget mirrorless cameras under $400, my top recommendation for most people is the Canon EOS M200. It delivers the best balance of image quality, autofocus performance, modern features like 4K video, and usability for beginners and content creators alike. Reviewers on Reddit consistently recommend Canon M-series cameras in this price range, and the M200 carries on that legacy.
For photographers who prioritize autofocus and lens ecosystem above all else, the Sony Alpha a6000 remains a legendary choice. It has been my go-to recommendation for years, and the 179-point AF system plus 11 fps burst still impresses. For photographers who value build quality and in-body stabilization, the Olympus PEN E-PL7 delivers premium feel and excellent IBIS at a price that undercuts most competitors.
The remaining cameras in this roundup each serve specific needs. The Canon EOS M10 is the simplest choice for absolute beginners. The Sony a5000 is the lightest option for vloggers. The Canon R100 renewed gives you access to the modern RF mount. The Sony a3000 offers DSLR-like ergonomics with a viewfinder. And the Panasonic GF3 is the most compact option for street photography.
If you are upgrading from a smartphone, the Canon EOS M200 and Sony a6000 will impress you most. If you are buying your first interchangeable lens camera, the Canon M10 or Olympus E-PL7 are forgiving starting points. Whatever you choose, you are getting image quality that would have cost thousands of dollars just a few years ago. For more guidance, check out our guide to the 10 Best Budget Mirrorless Cameras or our picks for 14 Best Budget Mirrorless Cameras Under 800 for Beginners.