Mirrorless vs DSLR vs Point and Shoot Cameras (Which Camera Should You Buy?)

Today I am gonna compare Point and Shoot cameras to DSLRs and also Mirrorless cameras. Some say Mirrorless cameras are the future of photography. But let’s see where our humble Point and Shoot photography lies in that space. So let the comparison begin.

1. Sensors

DSLRs and Mirrorless cameras have larger sensors which mean larger pixel size, that can capture more light and more data points. Not only does this reduce noise in the image, but also allows you to tinker with your shutter speed and ISO settings.

2. Size & Weight

One of the main selling points of a Mirrorless camera over a DSLR is its portability and significantly lighter body weight. But a Point and Shoot camera can be even more compact and travel friendly. Because they’re so easy to carry around, you can have them on you all the time. This will ensure you never miss a worthy opportunity. Also if you have a backache or such health issues, then a Point and Shoot or Mirrorless can be suitable.

3. Lenses

DSLRs have a wider selection of lenses to choose from. But as Mirrorless cameras continue to grow in popularity, their lens offerings are catching up. In Point and Shoots, you have a fixed lens, so there is no question of attaching any lens to it. So a Point and Shoot will lack diversity, and constrain you with only one lens. But having a fixed lens also means I can shoot landscapes, birds, portraits, all at the same time without bothering to carry extra lenses and changing them again and again.

4. Price

Obviously Point and Shoot cameras are cheaper, then DSLRs, and Mirrorless are most expensive. Some Point and Shoots may cost less than 1/10^th of the price of a lens of a Mirrorless camera. Yes they are expensive!

5. Battery Life

Mirrorless continues to fall short here, which can be a big negative when shooting in the field for long stretches. The battery life of a DSLR can give you a few hours of shooting. In Point and Shoot, the battery life is better. It lasts me the whole day without any need for replacement, provided the batteries that I use have been recommended by the manufacturer.

6. Image Quality

Both DSLRs and Mirrorless cameras are capable of fantastic image quality. The image quality of a Point and Shoot may fall behind DSLRs and Mirrorless cameras, but in broad daylight i.e. a well lit scene the images turn out to be great.

7. Video Quality

Only high-end DSLR and Point and Shoot models can produce 4K or Ultra HD quality videos. That’s why, in this case, Mirrorless cameras have the edge because they have the ability to produce such quality even with some affordable models.

8. Viewfinder

The reflex mirror in a DSLR allows the optical viewfinder to accurately show what you’ll capture when you click. Point and Shoot cameras come with LCD screens to view the shots you’re about to take. In Mirrorless, since, by design, there is no mirror to direct the view of the lens to the viewfinder, many Mirrorless cameras utilize an electronic viewfinder, or EVF.

9. Settings

DSLRs and Mirrorless cameras allow me to fully control my settings manually. Only high end Point and Shoots allow me that. Most of them give me a very limited range of settings to play with. eg my Nikon Coolpix B500 only allows me to set my ISO and not my shutter speed and aperture manually.

10. Controls

The simplest Point and Shoot cameras have a menu with a small number of options. Because of that, they’re often easy to operate. You won’t have to think about complicated settings. DSLRs and Mirrorless cameras will allow you set up the camera just how you want it with the control buttons and menu. The menu controls require a lot of study and experimentation. Because of these features, they are suitable for the advanced photographer.

So as a conclusion, if you want more options in terms of usage, choose a Mirrorless camera. A Point and Shoot is more suitable for the photographer who wants to keep it simple and budget friendly. If you want something in the middle, then a DSLR is best.

I hope you liked my blog. Do let me know your suggestions and thoughts in the comments section. Thank you!

Also Read – Photography at Bandra Worli Sea Link