The most popular type of digital camera back in the early to mid-2000s was the DSLR, which is why it is considered the best.

The debate on DSLR cameras vs mirrorless cameras is still going on, since the smaller, lighter models are slowly overtaking in popularity. DSLRs are still a top choice regardless of whether you are a beginner or a professional photographer, and this doesn't take away from the heritage and reliability of DSLRs. We think the best DSLR cameras can still hold their own, because they rank highly in our guide.

DSLR cameras, which are used by professional photographers, are typically a bit larger than other types of cameras. They aren't the bulky, obnoxious items they used to be so this shouldn't stop you from liking them. Regardless of experience or ability, owning one of the best DSLR cameras will give you the results you want.

If you want to do more research or check out our best camera deals, you can check out our guide. If you want to see the best DSLR cameras, then read on. If you want to learn more about the best mirrorless cameras, then you should read our guide.

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Best overall

Nikon D850 camera body

(Image credit: Nikon)

The D850 is a serious step up from the D780, offering 45.7MP still photos at up to 9FPS, but only when using a dedicated battery grip. It isn't as high as some of the other cameras on this list, but it is still large enough to be seen in a movie.

If you need to switch between stills and video, the D850 is the ideal choice. The battery grip is protected from the elements and the camera is weather sealed. The D850 is a camera that you can take anywhere and get great results.

Best for hybrid photographers

Nikon D780

(Image credit: Nikon)

The D780 builds on the success of the D750 and features a more detailed rear screen and a burst speed of 12FPS making it ideal for wildlife, sports, and action photography. It shoots 4K video with 10-bit N-log recording and 12 stops of dynamic range.

A lowlight master, this model has the ability to expand the ISO range to 204800, and the noise reduction algorithms are perfect to keep the images clean. When live view is activated, its lowlight-specific autofocus ability can drop the camera's autofocus range to -7EV.

Best for action photography

Canon EOS 90D

(Image credit: Canon)

Crop sensor DSLRs benefit from the perceived extra zoom. That is where Canon is exploiting this camera. The longer effective focal length and quick 10FPS maximum burst speed are complemented by a huge 32.5MP image sensor to bring far-away subjects closer than ever before.

It would be great to see 4K DCI on this camera, but 4K UHD is more suitable for most shooters and keeps up with the rest of its class. The iTR focus tracking is powered by a 220,000 RGB and IR metering sensor.

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is still used by many professionals five years after its release. It is an absolute powerhouse of a camera as it captures 30.4MP stills and shoots in 4K DCI video for cinema-like movie quality.

peripherals can be attached with a variety of outputs, and the rear screen is large and detailed. It has a microphone input for external microphones, a flash connection port, and a technology that allows for easy image transfer.

Best for durability and speed

Canon 5D Mark IV

(Image credit: Canon)

The Canon 5D Mark IV is still used by many professionals around the world. It captures 30.4MP stills and shoots in 4K DCI video for cinema-like movie quality, an absolute powerhouse of a camera.

peripherals can be attached to the rear screen with a variety of outputs. The camera has a microphone input for external mics, a flash connection port, and a built-in wi fi and nfo technology that makes it versatile.

Best rugged option

Canon EOS 6D Mark II

(Image credit: Canon)

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II is a benchmark DSLR. It is between the entry-level models and the professional models. Photographers who like to push the limits of the entry-level versions can exploit the integrated weather and dust seal features and take advantage of slightly elevated burst shoot speeds.

There is a five-axis digital image stabilization to keep handheld shooting steady, and the dual-pixel CMOS AF smoothly adjusts focus when shooting video. It can capture 4K time-lapses with a 26.2MP image resolution, but unfortunately, movie resolution is the only real letdown to an otherwise great intermediate-level camera.

Nikon D7500

(Image credit: Nikon)

The D7500 is a camera body designed for photographers who want to take their photography to the next level. It's large, 3.2-in rear tilt screen makes it ideal for awkward shooting angles without the need for a tripod.

It is suitable for sports and wildlife photography due to the 8FPS maximum burst speed and the 20.9MP image sensor, which is more than enough to shoot 4K UHD video. This is suitable for shooting in all weathers as it is protected from water and dust.

Best for beginners

Canon EOS Rebel SL3

(Image credit: Canon)

While there are cheaper entry-level crop sensor cameras available, the Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / 250D is the best of the bunch with a 24.1MP CMOS sensor and DIGIC 8 image processor that produces vivid, minimal noise photos. The live view option on the rear screen improves this to 143, however, there are only nine autofocus points across the viewfinder.

This Canon has a -4EV working range and a maximum expanded ISO sensitivity of 51200, it is a handy camera in low light conditions, especially if you have a lens with in-built image stabilization.

Best entry-level Nikon

Nikon D3500

(Image credit: Nikon)

The cheapest DSLR from the company feels comfortable in hand with a deep, professional grip. This entry-level beauty has a 24.2MP stills resolution which isn't to be sniffed at.

The movie recording is limited to Full HD at 60 frames per second, but the dynamic range is good and the rear display is large and bright. Anyone new to photography should be able to take great pictures with one of the DX zoom lens.

We have rounded up the very best DSLRs you can buy today, from stand-out entry-level cameras that are perfect for the budget-conscious or beginner photographer, through to high-end enthusiast and professional models, and everything in between.

Ensure you look for a camera that suits your needs by paying close attention to your requirements. Whether that is high resolution stills, a wide dynamic range, or a crisp 4K video recording. It is important to remember that lens choice is a crucial factor when choosing an interchangeable lens camera, so take a look at the scope of the lens available as well before purchasing your favorite camera.