Top 5 BEST DSLR Cameras for 2025
The best DSLR camera you can buy for novices, hobbyists and pros
Every kind of photographer may find a DSLR camera, from entry-level models to high-end workhorses. The Nikon D850 would be our first choice if we had to pick just one to use in 2025. Testing revealed that the full-frame sensor still produces excellent images despite being several years old. It has a sturdy construction and is quite reasonably priced.
New DSLR releases are seldom as the majority of camera manufacturers are now concentrating on creating the greatest mirrorless cameras. The top DSLRs that are still available for purchase in 2025 are the main emphasis of our guide. Every model listed below has undergone a rigorous testing process, so you can be sure it’s worth your time. Additionally, we’ve selected a few DSLRs that are quite reasonably priced on the used market.
We know exactly what to look for when purchasing a DSLR camera in 2025 because to that practical experience. Below, we’ve condensed that extensive knowledge into a list of reliable recommendations.
best DSLR for image quality
1. Nikon D850
best professional DSLR
2. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
best beginner DSLR camera
3. Nikon D7500
best DSLR for sports and wildlife
4. Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
best full-frame hybrid DSLR
5. Nikon D780
1. Nikon D850
Even after being on the market for a few years, it’s difficult to find another DSLR that performs as well as the D850. It is undoubtedly expensive, but the qualities we found in our tests—such as its robust, weather-resistant magnesium alloy body, a ton of functions, and superb image quality—justify this. While the 7fps burst mode is abnormally high for a camera with a 45MP sensor, the sensor itself still has one of the greatest resolutions of any DSLR.
Its versatility should be easy to appreciate when you combine it with a fantastic 4K video, amazing handling, and a cracking AF system.Want to go mirrorless but like the D850’s sound? Though it isn’t quite a mirrorless version of the D850, Nikon’s more recent Z7 mirrorless camera has some innovative technology of its own, such as a brand-new lens mount, and has the same 45MP resolution as the D850.
Although the D810 maintained the same 36.3MP resolution as the revolutionary Nikon D800/D800e, it was eventually overshadowed by the 42.2MP Sony Alpha A7R II and the 50.6MP Canon EOS 5DS. However, the D850 gained a brand-new 45.7MP full-frame back-illuminated sensor (BSI), which was only slightly less powerful than the 5DS and had a significant pixel boost over the D810.
The BSI design should operate better in low light than earlier sensors since the light-collecting components are located closer to the sensor’s surface. Similar to the D810 (and D800e), the D850 does not have an anti-aliasing filter, allowing for even more detail to be extracted from the sensor, but at the expense of moiré patterning.
2. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
With a 30.4MP sensor, a sophisticated 61-point AF system, and 4K video capture, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV refines and enhances nearly everything that came before it. All of these features functioned admirably in our real-world tests. Canon has effectively ruled out a 5D Mark V replacement, thus the Mark IV will remain one of the most alluring DSLRs available at this price range.
With a maximum frame rate of 30 frames per second and no ability to record in a flat gamma profile, its 4K video options are a little limited.The EOS 5D Mark IV, however, is still a surprisingly modern option if you’re primarily searching for a strong DSLR for stills shooting. Its popularity is demonstrated by the fact that you can still purchase it brand-new.
With on-chip digital-to-analogue conversion, the 5D Mark IV also uses the same cutting-edge sensor technology as the 1D X Mark II and 80D. This should result in better noise performance and a wider dynamic range.
With the introduction of Dual Pixel Raw technology, however, photographers can now fine-tune the region of greatest sharpness, so that’s not the complete story when it comes to image quality.
3. Nikon D7500
We believe the D7500, which was first marketed to enthusiasts, is a good all-arounder for novices to develop with. Despite not being an entry-level DSLR, it now offers great value thanks to frequent reductions. We are nevertheless amazed by its performance, even though it has the same excellent 20.9MP APS-C sensor as the D500 and a strong 51-point AF system. Additionally, 4K video is a wonderful addition.
Even though its quality isn’t the best, we found its 3.2-inch tilt-angle screen to be helpful during testing. We also gave the D7500 positive reviews for its weather-sealed body, which feels reassuringly sturdy, and its battery life.Although Live View focusing isn’t the fastest, we believe the D7500 is a very good value for the money if you’re willing to make a few little concessions.
The Nikon D7500’s sensor upgrade was one of the most significant disruptions. Nikon chose to employ the somewhat lower-resolution 20.9MP sensor from the D500, which, like that camera, is paired with Nikon’s EXPEED 5 image processor, even though the D7100 and D7200 both have 24MP chips (as did the entry-level D3400 and D5600).
Similar to the D500, Nikon was able to extract a bit more detail from the 20.9MP sensor by removing the low-pass filter. Although losing nearly 4MP in comparison to the D7200’s 24.2MP may seem like a significant sacrifice, there are benefits to the slight reduction in resolution, especially in terms of sensitivity.
4. Canon EOS 1D X Mark III
The last flagship DSLR from Canon is a suitable farewell. The 1D X Mark III is designed for professionals that require speed, performance, and image quality in a robust package. The capabilities of the 1D X Mark III greatly pleased us during our tests. Despite being a large camera, we valued its ergonomics during our review, and its sturdy construction feels sturdy enough to withstand a combat zone. We also discovered a camera that was capable of handling any circumstance.
Whether it was front-page action, sports, or nature, its performance was always certain. This camera doesn’t cut any corners because to its quick processor, large buffer, and quick burst speeds of 20 frames per second. This also applies to the AF system, which improves accuracy through deep learning.
This also applies to the AF system, which improves accuracy through deep learning. With 4K/60p capture available, its video capabilities are very useful. With all of its capabilities and capability, it’s arguably too much for the typical photographer, especially given its high price. However, it’s also an incredibly powerful DSLR that is well worth the money for experts.
5. Nikon D780
Like the original Nikon Z6, the D780 is essentially a cross between a mirrorless camera and a full-frame DSLR. The D780 is still somewhat pricey, but since it was released in 2020, its price has slightly decreased, making it our number one choice for anyone looking to combine the advantages of DSLRs and mirrorless technology. According to our evaluation, the D780 has some of the greatest image quality available, and the addition of contemporary technologies like Face and Eye detection enhances its 4K video capabilities.
The D780 builds on the strong foundation established by the D750 by utilizing the same 273-point on-sensor phase-detection AF technology as the Z6, which enables quick focus when using Live View.You may take full advantage of its remarkable 2,260-shot battery life if you choose to frame through its optical viewfinder. The D780 is still very expensive for a full-frame all-arounder, but if that isn’t a problem for you, it’s one of the best available.
Perhaps the clearest example of a DSLR reimagining itself for the mirrorless era is the Nikon D780. Despite having an optical viewfinder and a very conventional appearance, this full-frame camera has some of the same technology as its state-of-the-art Nikon Z6 cousin. Put otherwise, it’s a mix of a DSLR and a mirrorless camera.
Since many entry-level mirrorless cameras lack viewfinders, a DSLR is still the most affordable option for obtaining a camera with interchangeable lenses and a viewfinder. What other factors should you take into account while selecting one, though?
An entry-level DSLR and a more sophisticated one differ primarily in their design, sensor, and shooting capabilities. Compared to their more expensive counterparts, entry-level DSLRs, such as the Nikon D3500 (see no. 1 above), are frequently smaller. They have historically been among the best travel cameras available because of this, although it usually comes with fewer manual options and a lack of weatherproofing.
Sensor size is frequently linked to the size disparity as well. Professional-grade DSLRs, such as the Nikon D850, use full-frame sensors, whereas more reasonably priced DSLRs often feature APS-C sensors. Below is a diagram that illustrates the distinction.There isn’t a single “better” sensor size; each has pros and cons of its own. Read our article on how to purchase a full-frame camera to learn more about these.
When deciding between a mid-range DSLR and a beginning model, spending a little more on the latter will typically provide you more shooting options, which could result in you keeping the camera longer and ultimately saving money.