Should you buy a camera with a mirror? That is not a simple question to answer. DSLRs are dead and mirrorless is the future, but we think it depends on your budget, what kit you already have, and what you want to shoot.

In 2020, for the first time ever, more DSLRs were produced than mirrorless cameras. We are going to talk about the differences between a DSLR and a mirrorless camera, as well as the benefits of future-proofing your investment.

Our guide to the best mirrorless cameras is a good place to start. If you have a DSLR, we have the best DSLR cameras guide. The best cameras for photos and videos can be found in our buying guide.

Mirrorless vs DSLR — what's the difference?

There are some differences between a DSLR and a mirrorless camera. DSLR cameras are larger, heavier, and more portable than mirrorless cameras, which makes them an ideal choice for photographers. The reason for them being different in size is that they don't need to be large to fit a mirror inside the body. The light goes through the lens to the sensor in the camera. In a DSLR camera, the light goes through the lens and bounces off the mirror and into theOVF, redirecting the light into your eye.

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Man with mirrorless camera on strap round shoulder

Being lighter and smaller than their DSLR counterparts, mirrorless cameras are more portable (Image credit: Getty)

DSLRs are becoming more and more affordable as a result of the camera market moving more towards the mirrorless camera. Better deals on DSLRs can be found in the used market. DSLRs tend to hold their value longer than mirrorless cameras. A camera with the same shutter count will be more valuable than a camera with a high shutter count. There isn't a shutter mechanism in a camera. You can find more information on our dedicated DSLRs vs mirrorless page.

Photographers are starting to realize that bigger doesn't always mean better. It's important to choose a camera that's small and light because they're ideal for travel. If you want to attach the grips to the camera body, you can buy them. It is better to have the option as you cannot make a smaller DSLR.

The electronic viewfinder is an advantage over the DSLR. The EVF and the screen are representations of what the sensor sees. It shows you what your image will look like in real time. You can see the impact it is having on your image when you adjust your settings. The difference between getting the shot and missing it is due to the fact that you are too busy looking at the image you just took. EVFs make it much easier to make an image in the dark, and they're great for Astrophotography where the need for correct settings is important.

Mirrorless camera on a tripod at dusk

Mirrorless cameras have an electronic viewfinder which makes it easier to compose images in low light (Image credit: Getty)

There is no need for a complex mirror system inside the camera body. If you're shooting sports or an event where the shutter sound could distract you, silent shooting mode is ideal.

They are leading the way when it comes to new autofocus systems due to the rapid improvement of the camera technology. It's easier to track moving objects with a mirrorless camera. The EVF allows you to see which part of the image is being tracked. DSLRs can't focus as well as mirrorless cameras.

Many camera brands are making In Body Image Stabilisation the default feature on their new cameras. This depletes the battery life, but brands are improving this all the time.

The build and ease of use are the main differences between the two. The image quality isn't a factor as there isn't much difference between the two sides.

Is mirrorless the future?

It's easy to see that mirrorless is the future as companies put more and more resources into the cameras. The rise and success of Sony and Fuji prompted Canon andNikon to enter the market.

Woman with mirrorless camera in hand

Mirrorless cameras are gaining popularity with each year (Image credit: Getty)

It's important to weigh up whether or not you'll benefit from using mirrorless. If you already have a comprehensive DSLR kit, it makes sense to switch to mirrorless. It's possible that it isn't. If you invest in lens mounts, you'll be able to use other lens on a mirrorless camera, which means you won't have to buy a new kit. The distance between the lens mount and the sensor is the same for a DSLR and a mirrorless camera. You will be able to use any future releases and cheaper ones in the used market. The shorter distance makes it easier for companies to make high-quality lens for a camera.

If everything we've mentioned here sounds like something that would benefit you, then perhaps it's time to switch to mirrorless.