Do you want to know what the best low-light camera is for shooting at night or indoors? This guide will walk you through the various options and help you select the best one for you – and at the best price.
Low light remains one of the most difficult difficulties for camera manufacturers. If you spend a lot of time taking pictures after dark, you might think about getting a camera that is specifically intended for that purpose. Although it may necessitate a trade-off in another area of performance, if a large proportion of your photographs are taken in low-light circumstances, the improved performance may be worth it.
Choosing the best camera for low-light photography necessitates more thought than simply considering the best mirrorless cameras, best DSLRs, or best compact cameras. Often, those guides will recommend the best overall camera or the finest all-arounder. For individuals who prefer low-light photography, consider the following features:
- sensor size, design, and pixel count
Conventional wisdom holds that the larger the sensor, the more suited it is for low-light photography. That is generally true, which is why there are so many full-frame cameras on our list. Models with a smaller sensor are also worth considering if you have another factor in mind, such as portability. It is also worthwhile to consider sensor design. Backside-illuminated sensors function best in low-light environments. You must also take into account the pixel count. Those with a lower pixel count use larger pixels, which are often better at gathering light. The majority of the cameras in this category have interchangeable lenses. When this is the case, look at the lens range to see how well the compatible lenses work in low light. Sharp lenses with large apertures will be your greatest friend after dark, but it’s also worth checking for ones with built-in stabilization (especially if your camera lacks it). If you’re considering a fixed-lens camera, look at its widest aperture for a quick indication of its low-light capability.
- Image stabilization
Many current cameras feature in-body image stabilization, which helps to keep your shots sharp in low-light situations. If you wish to photograph handheld or at slow(ish) shutter rates, IBIS will be really useful. Some cameras will instead rely on lens stabilization, but others will use both camera and lens stabilization simultaneously for particularly amazing results.
- High ISO capabilities
The ISO capabilities of current cameras have increased substantially over the years. Because most current cameras have very high ISO rates, it’s worth checking reviews for example photographs taken at such speeds to get a better understanding of how clean or noise-free those images are.
- AF performance
This is a critical issue, especially if you’re photographing subjects that aren’t static, such as musicians on stage. You’ll need to consider the sort of autofocus mechanism, the number of AF points, and the sensitivity of those points. Again, it’s important to read reviews to see how the critic rated performance in low-light situations.
- Remote control apps
Many current cameras can be triggered from your smartphone. If you’re using a tripod and shooting low-light street and landscape images, this can be tremendously handy for avoiding camera wobble and saving money on a remote release.
Here we have compiled the list of Best Low Light Cameras. If you are looking for it then you are in the right place.
10 Best Low Light Cameras
1. Sony a7 III
The Sony a7 III mirrorless camera takes the top spot as the best camera overall. Because it is driven by Sony’s proprietary BIONZ X image engine, it is capable of producing high-quality images regardless of the lighting. In addition to this, it comes with a 28–70mm lens kit that can be swapped out for any other lens in the E-mount series. However, the performance of the lens is only good if the sensor is strong enough to acquire the data from the lens. As a result, the Sony a7 III incorporates a 35 mm full-frame picture sensor that provides a readout speed of 1.8 times and a resolution of 24.2 megapixels.
Due to the fact that it is able to record images in a 14-bit uncompressed RAW format and has a 15-stop dynamic range, we have decided to make this our top option for performance in low light. You will also have the ability to modify the ISO range, which will allow you to go from 50 all the way up to 204800, which is a large scale that is suitable for any scene. Without the need for a mechanical shutter, you will be able to utilize the camera at a rate of 10 frames per second. Even the performance of the focusing system on this camera is fairly respectable, as it provides 693 phase-detection points in addition to 425 autofocus points for every scene.
2. Nikon D7500
$996.95
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Our second pick for the finest camera to use in low light is another product manufactured by the trustworthy and well-known Niko brand. The Nikon D7500 is a digital single-lens reflex camera that is both extremely professional and adaptable enough for a wide range of uses. This camera will be equipped with a robust 18–140 mm lens by default, which is fantastic news when you consider how much less expensive it is in comparison to other premium options. A sensor measuring 23.5 millimeters by 15.7 millimeters and with a resolution of 20.9 megapixels may be found hidden below the lens of the camera.
The included huge 3.2-inch tilting LCD display, which has a 922K-dot screen and also supports touch functionality, will make it much simpler for you to control the parameters of this camera. This display also supports touch functionality. This camera has an ISO range of 100–51200, which is fantastic and ideal for photographing in low light because it covers such a wide range.
You will receive a 51-point system with 15 sensors for the autofocus, which enables a shooting speed of up to 8 frames per second while maintaining focus throughout the entire process. The Nikon D7500 is capable of capturing video in both 1080p Full HD and 4K Ultra HD resolutions. Additionally, you will have access to a variety of videos, including time-lapse footage. Your photography will unquestionably go to the next level once you upgrade to the Nikon D7500, which is equipped with the EXPEED 5 image processor.
3. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Canon is likely a name that is already familiar to you if you have any background at all in professional photography or cameras. A fantastic single-lens reflex (SLR) camera body is now available from Canon, perfect for photography lovers and professionals alike.
There are a select few options available, some of which are extremely high-end, like the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, which is developed especially for use in professional contexts. If you have past experience in the field, we will strongly advocate going with this decision. Otherwise, we will not recommend it.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a single-lens reflex camera body that features a resolution sensor that packs an amazing 30.4 megapixels. This sensor is able to provide an ISO range that extends from 50 all the way up to 102400, making it capable of delivering an ISO range that goes from 100 all the way up to 32,000. Additionally, it is 4K capable and provides the option to capture 4K at either 30p or 24p. When it comes to Full HD and HD, it can take captures at 60p and 120p, respectively.
This camera is powered by the DIGIC 6 plus image processor, which gives a vastly improved capture speed in addition to exceptional image quality. You will have access to both of these features. Because it can take approximately seven frames per second during continuous photography, the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV ensures that you won’t miss any essential moments. A dual-pixel CMOS autofocus mechanism is included in the device, allowing for seamless video capturing even during live performances. Unless you currently have a lens kit that’s reasonably good, you should be sure to place an order for an EF lens as well.
4. Panasonic LUMIX LX10
The Panasonic LUMIX LX10 is a simple point-and-shoot camera that is an excellent choice for amateur photographers and people who like photography as a hobby. It has a huge CMOS sensor that is 1 inch in size and has a resolution of 20.1 MP with the ability to zoom 3 times. The gadget comes pre-configured with a LEICA lens kit that has a focal length range of 24–72 millimeters and is known for its excellent level of performance. In addition to that, it features optical picture stabilization, which enables you to effortlessly achieve the best results even while you are moving. When using the camera in portrait mode, the digital viewfinder display can be rotated to an angle of 180 degrees, and it has a width of 3 inches.
You will be able to get an accurate representation of the final product thanks to the 1040K dots that are contained within the digital display. Despite being a budget-friendly camera, the Panasonic LUMIX LX10 is capable of recording in 4K QHD resolution. As a result, it is an excellent option for those who create content. It contains an internal focus stacking feature that enables you to take pictures at a rate of approximately 30 frames per second and choose the ideal focus point after the picture has been taken. In spite of the fact that it is a simple point-and-shoot camera, it provides a shooting experience that is comparable to that of a DSLR because of the lens-mounted control ring. Additionally, the Panasonic LUMIX LX10 is compatible with both USB and WiFi connectivity.
5. Fujifilm X-T3
$1,099.00
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Fujifilm provides the next contender for the title of the best camera for low-light situations. The Fujifilm X-T3, like the majority of Fujifilm cameras, has a powerful CMOS sensor that measures 23.5 x 15.6 millimeters and is housed in a beautiful metallic body. It comes equipped with the X processor 4, an image processor that, when combined with the 26.1 MP resolution sensor, produces results that are simply breathtaking. However, keep in mind that it is only a camera body, and in order to use it, you will need to attach a lens from the Fujifilm X mount series to the device.
When it comes to filming in 4K, the Fujifilm X-T3, just like every other Fujifilm camera, is extremely effective. It is one of the first mirrorless cameras that are capable of recording video in 10-bit K at 60 frames per second. When it comes to the unit’s performance in low light, you will find that the Fujifilm X-T3 is capable of remarkable performance since it combines 2.16M phase detection with low light phase detection. This enables it to provide excellent results. Even the digital OLED display on the Fujifilm X-T3 has 3.69 million dots, and it magnifies the image by 0.75 times so that you can get an accurate representation of the situation. This device has an ISO range that goes from 160 all the way up to 12800.
6. OLYMPUS OM-D E-M1 Mark II
Compared to other sensors with a similar design, the four-thirds format sensors included in the OLYMPUS OM-D E-M1 Mark II deliver the highest level of performance. According to OLYMPUS, it is one of the high-tech sensors that operates at substantially lower noise and has a strong dynamic range, both of which will undoubtedly help with low-light performance. Additionally, it operates at a significantly lower temperature than other sensors. In addition to that, it has a broad ISO range, going all the way up to 25600. The resolution of the sensor itself is 20.4 megapixels, and it is a MOS sensor that is live. The image processor in this device is also fairly powerful, and it delivers excellent AF compatibility thanks to its use of the TruePic VIII image processor.
This camera features 121 autofocus phase-detection points, which work together to ensure that the image you take is perfectly in focus when it is captured. Using the OLYMPUS OM-D E-M1 Mark II, which features a quiet autofocus system, you are able to record up to 60 frames per second. In the event that you use the C AF system, you will be able to take 18 pictures per second, which is a speed that is still considered to be rather quick. Due to the fact that it is just a camera body, you will be able to use any lens that is compatible with the micro four-thirds system with this device.
7. Nikon Z 6II
The Nikon Z 6II is a mirrorless camera that offers users the option of using either an optical or a digital viewfinder. Therefore, you are free to utilize the desired technique of photography that is most suited to your needs. In addition to that, the 35.9 x 23.9 mm CMOS sensor that is included in this device will always produce results that are both sharp and accurate in terms of color. In addition to the body of the camera, you will also receive a lens set that ranges from 24 to 70 millimeters and is designed to be suitable for beginner-level use. In addition, you have the ability to change the lens kit with any lens of your choosing that is compatible with the Nikon Z mount series.
Because it is capable of recording 4K video footage at 60 frames per second, the Nikon Z 6II is an option that is acceptable even for content creators. The functioning of the camera’s focusing has also been vastly improved in comparison to the cameras that came before it in the series. You will also be able to shoot continuously at a considerably faster pace while achieving significantly improved AF performance. Because it is powered by the Nikon EXPEED image processor, you are certain to get solid performance in every scene, regardless of whether the scene is well-lighted or has a lower amount of available light. The sensor has a resolution of 24.5 megapixels, and it enables a maximum recording speed of up to 14 frames per second, making it ideal for use in low-light environments.
8. OLYMPUS OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
Despite being a small micro four-thirds sensor, the OLYMPUS OM-D E-M10 Mark IV nonetheless offers respectable performance thanks to its incorporation of a 20-megapixel MOS sensor. The cameras also come equipped with an interchangeable lens system. The kit lens, which ranges in focal length from 14 to 42 millimeters and comes preinstalled on the camera, can be swapped out for any other lens that is compatible with the micro four-thirds mount. Because it can be rotated downwards, the digital display of the OLYMPUS OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is fully capable of supporting portrait mode. This allows the user to see a preview of the subject from the front of the camera.
You have control over the ISO settings on the OLYMPUS OM-D E-M10 Mark IV, and they range from 80 all the way up to 25600. This makes the ISO range quite appealing. It has built-in image stabilization on all five axes and the ability to adjust the shutter speed by 4.5 steps, which together allow it to generate an image that is completely steady despite the action. During the process of capturing the photo, you have the option of selecting one of sixteen distinct artistic styles. In terms of zooming capabilities, you can take advantage of a 2x digital zoom without suffering any loss in image quality in addition to a 3x optical zooming capability.
9. Panasonic LUMIX S5
$1,597.99
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Because it is compatible with lenses that have a Panasonic L mount, the Panasonic LUMIX S5 quickly rises to the position of one of the most versatile products on our list. A full-frame, 24.2 megapixel BSI CMOS sensor that measures 35.6 x 23.8 millimeters in size serves as the device’s power source. Because of this, the big sensor takes in a huge amount of data at the time of capture and generates photos that are relatively accurate representations of the real world. Additionally, it features image stabilization on all five axes and a dedicated Lumix OIS lens that provides 6.5 stops of exposure latitude, making it ideal for motion photography. The Panasonic LUMIX S5 has a native ISO range that goes from 50 all the way up to 51200, and its extended ISO range goes from 50 all the way up to 204800. As a result, it is an option that is nothing short of excellent when used in conditions with low light.
When utilizing the AF-S system, the capture speed will be 7 frames per second, however, when using the AF-C mode, the capture speed will be lowered to 5 frames per second. You will have access to a visually appealing display for the camera thanks to the fact that the viewfinder on the Panasonic LUMIX S5 is likewise an OLED digital screen with 2.35 million dots. Additionally, the display is articulating, allowing you to achieve the optimal viewing angle while you are shooting the photograph. The maximum capture resolution that is supported is 4K at 30p or even 60p when the APS-C aspect ratio is used. Additionally, the Panasonic LUMIX S5 enables communication via Bluetooth and WiFi, which makes it considerably simpler to transmit data across devices.
10. Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III
$685.99
Save: 313.01
The Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III Digital Camera is our final recommendation for the best camera to use in low-light conditions. It is also a camera that belongs to the point-and-shoot category since the lens cannot be removed and replaced, and instead, you will be provided with a lens that has a focal length range of 24–72 millimeters. In spite of this, it makes use of the same type of CMOS APS-C sensor that is often seen in DSLR cameras. The sensor has a resolution of 24.2 megapixels and is capable of capturing photographs in both RAW and JPEG format with 14 bits of data while maintaining a 3:2 aspect ratio.
If you don’t want to lug around your bulky DSLR camera when you travel, this is a fantastic alternative for you to consider. For the finest possible results, this camera is both lightweight and powerful, with the capability of supporting a 3x zoom and an integrated picture stabilization feature. It is driven by an image processor called Digic 7 which is comparable to the majority of high-end choices that are currently on the market. When using the camera in the AF mode, there is also a dual-pixel phase-detection system that is included, which is really helpful. For a camera designed for use in dim light, the ISO range went all the way up to 25600, which is quite impressive. You will have 2.3 million dots to display on the electronic viewfinder in order to receive an accurate representation of the level of detail in the preview.
FAQs
Q: What characteristics of a camera allow it to perform well in low light?
In general, a camera that is good for shooting in low light will have a big back-illuminated sensor and a great range of ISO sensitivity. Both of these features are important for the camera. Although these two factors are essential in determining how well a camera will perform in low lighting, the lens that you attach to the camera body will also play a role in the process of determining how well the camera will perform. If you intend to take a significant number of photos or videos in low light, you should make sure that your camera is equipped with a lens that has a quick aperture. This will allow the maximum amount of light to reach the sensor throughout the shooting process.
Q: Are mirrorless or DSLR cameras better in low light?
When photographing in low-light conditions, both single-lens reflex cameras and mirrorless cameras can be very useful solutions. Having said that, mirrorless cameras of the contemporary day typically have huge full-frame sensors and outstanding IBIS technology, which makes it much simpler to shoot handheld photographs in low-light circumstances than it was in the past.
Q: How can I get sharp photos when there isn’t a lot of light?
Even if you are shooting handheld at slow shutter rates in a low-lit environment, having a camera that has good autofocus capabilities and IBIS will assist your photographs to remain sharp. Look for cameras that have an autofocus system that can work at a sensitivity of at least -5EV. Because excessive levels of noise reduction result in a loss of clarity, you should look for a camera that has strong noise management at higher ISO settings.
Q: What sensitivity setting (ISO) do you recommend for low light?
It is dependent on the specifics of your situation, including the amount of light that is available, in order to determine which ISO setting is optimal for low light. In low-light conditions, cameras with a wider ISO range will often perform better than those with a smaller range; however, this does not necessarily imply that you should take pictures using the highest ISO setting that your camera is capable of. When you turn up the ISO on your camera, the amount of noise that appears in your photos will also go up. Thankfully, the majority of today’s cameras are capable of minimizing the appearance of digital artifacts even at ISO settings as high as 10,000.
Q: Does 4K perform better in low-light situations?
A significant portion of this will be determined by the 4K video camera that you choose to use. 4K has a resolution that is four times higher than 1080p, but you should pay attention to whether or not the camera you are using shoots 4K with a crop, as many do. Shooting in genuine 4K will ultimately enable you to capture more details within the frame; however, you will need to record to an external recorder in order to achieve the best possible results.
Q: Is APS-C a good format for low-light photography?
Although a camera with an APS-C sensor does not have as large of a sensor as a camera with a full-frame sensor, this does not mean that there are not acceptable solutions available on the market for photography in low light. In the majority of situations, an APS-C sensor camera will be a more cost-effective solution for completing the task at hand; hence, as long as the camera possesses a sufficient ISO range and, preferably, in-body stabilization, it should perform admirably.
