Mirrorless Versus DSLR Cameras in 2022

Choosing between mirrorless or DSLR has long been one of the main deciding factors when buying a new digital camera. Mirrorless cameras have grown massively in popularity in the last decade. At the same time, DSLR models remain the go-to choice for any number of buyers, including both amateur and professional photographers.

For those unsure about which to buy, it can be tough deciding between the two. With manufacturers favoring mirrorless tech in newer and newer models, current-generation DSLR cameras are also becoming increasingly scarce. To understand why, it’s a good idea to look at the strengths and weaknesses of each option.

One of the most significant advantages of choosing a mirrorless camera over a DSLR model involves weight. Because mirrorless cameras lack the heavy mirrors employed in DSLRs, they’re noticeably lighter. This difference is immediately apparent when comparing otherwise mirrorless and DSLR models back-to-back.

They’re generally smaller, too. Bigger mirrorless cameras are available that essentially mimic the look and feel of chunkier traditional DSLR models. However, most DSLRs are as small as they can be, owing to their built-in mirrors. When searching for a smaller, lighter camera, a mirrorless model is, therefore, the obvious choice.

While it’ll be of little consequence to those who routinely use a tripod, it’s an essential consideration for those preferring to get more hands-on. It’s also well worth bearing in mind for those who regularly travel with one or more cameras. That’s especially true when flying or enjoying activities like hiking, where weight-saving measures are always important.

Right now, there are like-for-like DSLR and mirrorless cameras at most price points. With that, prices vary from under $500 to upwards of $2,000 among both options. Toward the top of the range, something like Canon’s best-selling EOS-1D X Mark III DSLR costs $6,499. Meanwhile, the newly introduced and mirrorless EOS R3 that essentially replaces it costs $500 less, priced at $5,999.

Almost across the board, mirrorless models today tend to offer better value than their DSLR counterparts. Borrowing from the cutting-edge tech found in smartphones, mirrorless camera innovations continue to come thick and fast, too. By contrast, improvements in DSLR tech have ground almost to a halt now, making increasingly feature-packed mirrorless models seem like a no-brainer when it comes to value for money.

Broadly speaking, prices for mirrorless cameras continue to come down as well, while the cost of DSLR models remains basically unchanged. Elsewhere, things like lenses and other accessories are largely interchangeable and, as a result, have no impact on price.

Maintenance for both mirrorless and DSLR cameras is mostly the same. Kept clean, dry, and protected from unnecessary knocks and careless handling, any model should last for many years to come. For this reason, a suitable camera bag or travel case is always a good idea. Another way to ensure that a camera remains in tip-top condition is with an extended warranty.

Extended camera warranties improve upon and prolong the limited coverage manufacturers provide from new. That means complete protection against:

With Upsie, camera warranty customers also get accidental damage coverage, further protecting against drops, cracks, and liquid spills. Upsie offers two and three-year plans.

Moreover, Upsie’s warranties are up to 70 percent less expensive than those sold by manufacturers like Canon, Nikon, Pentax, and Sony. The same goes for stores, including Walmart and Best Buy. That’s because Upsie cuts out the middleman before passing on savings to buyers. The same applies to camera, camera lens, and video camera warranties alike, with eligibility open to both new and used equipment purchased in the last 60 days.

Ultimately, unless an individual has a particular reason for choosing a DSLR camera, mirrorless models are the way to go in 2022. Lighter, increasingly powerful, and more affordable than ever, there’s also a greater choice of current-generation mirrorless cameras now on the market.

Of course, DSLR models are likely to remain available for the foreseeable future. But with even the most celebrated, famous, and globally renowned photographers now switching to mirrorless tech, they’ll no doubt become far less prevalent with each passing year. In essence, it’s a shift not dissimilar to the move from film to digital.

Either way, and whichever model you choose, be sure to protect your purchase with an extended camera warranty from Upsie. Head to upsie.com/camera-warranty to learn more about extended camera warranties.