For $2000, you can get a top-quality camera that excels in both photos and video, with autofocus systems nearly on par with professional sports cameras.
When choosing a camera, consider the lens ecosystem and check the price and availability of lenses you’ll need. Some brands restrict third-party lens options, so make sure to research that as well.
Additionally, newer mirrorless lenses often outperform older DSLR lenses. If you have existing lenses, think about whether to adapt them to a new system or sell them and invest in modern equivalents, which could also give you the flexibility to switch brands.
BEST CAMERA AROUND $2000: CANON EOS R6 II
The Canon EOS R6 Mark II is a powerful second-gen full-frame mirrorless camera with a 24MP stabilized Dual Pixel CMOS sensor. It boasts a comfortable grip, well-placed controls, and a user-friendly touchscreen interface, making it easy to handle even with larger lenses.
Its autofocus is exceptional, maintaining accuracy even at 40fps, with multiple subject detection modes and an intelligent ‘Auto’ mode that adapts to various scenes. The R6 Mark II excels in both stills and video, with fast burst shooting and impressive rolling shutter control in electronic shutter mode, though dynamic range drops in faster settings.
Video quality has been greatly enhanced, with full-width oversampled 4K at up to 60p and better thermal management. While video autofocus can occasionally shift to the background, it remains a top performer.
Though the R6 Mark II may seem like a slight upgrade from its predecessor, the many improvements make it one of the best full-frame cameras in its class.
RUNNER UP: NIKON Z6III
The Nikon Z6III is a powerful third-gen full-frame mirrorless camera with a 25MP “partially stacked” CMOS sensor. With an ergonomic grip, intuitive controls, and a refined touchscreen interface, it’s designed for ease of use, though it lacks the traditional AF mode button.
Autofocus is reliable, featuring Nikon’s 3D-tracking and multiple subject recognition modes. It shoots 20 raw frames per second and up to 60fps in JPEG. The Z6III delivers excellent image quality with detailed shots and minimal noise, though there’s a slight dynamic range tradeoff at high speeds.
For video, the Z6III supports multiple formats, including Raw, with superb 4K and 5.4K detail at 60p and impressive rolling shutter performance. It’s a major upgrade from its predecessor, offering the best balance of photo and video capabilities in its class.
