Best Digital Cameras for Autofocus System (2024)

1

Sony A7R V

Score: 9/10

Sony A7R V

The A7R V features an advanced AI-powered autofocus system with excellent subject recognition and real-time tracking, though it may occasionally misidentify subjects.

Autofocus System

9/10

G

Gerald Undone

They've added a new AI Processing Unit to the camera, which uses deep learning.

G

Gerald Undone

The new system is supposed to be much more tenacious in understanding your specific subject.

G

Gerald Undone

Sony is a genius with autofocus, and the a7r5 is possibly its best camera yet in this area.

Image Quality

9/10

The Sony A7R V delivers outstanding image quality with its 61MP sensor, offering excellent dynamic range and color accuracy. It performs well in low light, though it requires high-quality lenses to achieve its full potential.

Quotes from Reviewers

G

Gerald Undone

You're getting that excellent 60-megapixel resolution, very expansive dynamic range, and good noise performance.

G

Gerald Undone

The similarities to the 7r4 sensor unfortunately mean that we have some of the slowest readout speeds you'll find in a contemporary full-frame sensor.

G

Gerald Undone

I still had problems with dust on the sensor.

G

Gerald Undone

It delivers nearly identical image quality to the a7r IV.

Lens Options

8/10

The camera supports a wide range of lenses, including high-quality Sony G and GM lenses, and third-party options. However, the high-resolution sensor demands investment in premium lenses for optimal performance.

Video Features

7/10

The camera offers 8K video recording and various color profiles, but suffers from rolling shutter issues and heating during extended use, making it less ideal for professional video work.

Quotes from Reviewers

G

Gerald Undone

You can also record 4K video at up to 60 frames per second.

G

Gerald Undone

The 8K video has a 1.24 times crop, while 4K 60p has the same crop but also adds pixel binning.

G

Gerald Undone

It's held back by one thing: excessive rolling shutter.

Build Quality

8/10

The A7R V boasts a robust build with a versatile articulating screen and excellent viewfinder, though its grip may be uncomfortable for prolonged use.

Quotes from Reviewers

G

Gerald Undone

It's truly outstanding, and I hope all future cameras from Sony will use this mechanism moving forward.

G

Gerald Undone

The grip has some hard edges and a material that's less cushy compared to Canon's R5.

2

Canon EOS R7

Score: 9/10

Canon EOS R7

The R7 features advanced autofocus with eye, animal, and vehicle detection, performing well in tracking moving subjects.

Autofocus System

9/10

T

Tony & Chelsea Northrup

The R7's blinding Auto Vegas capabilities and its all-true Auto Vickers are always lightning fast, with very intelligent and customizable tracking options.

T

Tony & Chelsea Northrup

The R7 features advanced autofocus with eye, animal, and vehicle detection, similar to higher-end models like the R3.

T

Tony & Chelsea Northrup

The autofocus system may struggle with older EF lenses, resulting in inconsistent performance.

Image Quality

8/10

The Canon EOS R7 delivers impressive image quality with its 32.5MP sensor, offering good detail and color. However, it struggles with noise at high ISO settings and has a lower EVF resolution.

Quotes from Reviewers

T

Tony & Chelsea Northrup

The R7 has a 32-megapixel sensor.

T

Tony & Chelsea Northrup

Canon emphasized that the R7 features a new sensor.

T

Tony & Chelsea Northrup

When examining the high ISO raw files, you can see that they are not quite as clean as those from the absolute best BSI APS-C competition.

T

Tony & Chelsea Northrup

The dynamic range is quite good on this camera, enabling you to bring down highlights reasonably well.

Lens Options

6/10

The R7 is compatible with a wide range of lenses, including EF lenses with an adapter, but has limited native RF-S lens options.

Quotes from Reviewers

T

Tony & Chelsea Northrup

Canon currently has only two APS-C RF lenses available for this.

T

Tony & Chelsea Northrup

The R7 offers versatility with lenses like the 18-150mm kit lens, which is suitable for both macro and sports photography.

T

Tony & Chelsea Northrup

If you're thinking about buying a new camera, visit milfordphoto.com.

Video Features

8/10

The R7 offers 4K 60p video with no crop and includes features like in-body stabilization, but suffers from rolling shutter issues.

Quotes from Reviewers

T

Tony & Chelsea Northrup

The R7 offers 4K 60p video with no crop and 4K 30p video that is oversampled for high detail.

T

Tony & Chelsea Northrup

The camera experiences rolling shutter issues in 4K fine mode, which can affect fast-moving subjects.

T

Tony & Chelsea Northrup

The micro HDMI port is less durable, and the 30-minute recording limit can be restrictive.

Build Quality

7/10

The R7 is robustly built with weather-sealing and a comfortable grip, but has a slightly plasticky texture and lower EVF resolution.

Quotes from Reviewers

T

Tony & Chelsea Northrup

The R7 is made of a robust magnesium alloy and is strongly weather-sealed.

T

Tony & Chelsea Northrup

The camera has a slightly plasticky texture and doesn't feel as premium as that of some competitors.

T

Tony & Chelsea Northrup

The EVF resolution is lower than expected for its price, and some controls can be fiddly.

3

Nikon Z 8

Score: 9/10

Nikon Z 8

The Z8's autofocus system is significantly improved, with effective 3D tracking and subject detection. It performs well in various conditions, though it may struggle in heavy snow.

Autofocus System

9/10

P

PetaPixel

The autofocus system is significantly improved, featuring effective 3D tracking and human subject detection.

P

PetaPixel

Autofocus can struggle in heavy snow conditions.

Image Quality

9/10

The Nikon Z8 delivers excellent image quality with its 45.7MP sensor, offering great clarity and resolution. While it excels in low light due to in-body stabilization, the electronic shutter may introduce noise in shadows.

Quotes from Reviewers

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PetaPixel

The photos are better than anything we're going to get today.

P

PetaPixel

The Nikon Z8 offers excellent image quality with a 45.7-megapixel sensor, similar to the Z9.

P

PetaPixel

An electronic-only shutter may result in more noise in shadows and slightly less dynamic range compared to cameras with mechanical shutters.

Lens Options

8/10

The Nikon Z8 offers a wide range of lens options, thanks to its large Z Mount and compatibility with Nikkor Z lenses. However, third-party lens options may seem limited.

Quotes from Reviewers

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PetaPixel

The Nikon Z Mount is the largest among any mirrorless cameras, allowing for the adaptation of other lenses, including Sony lenses.

P

PetaPixel

There is a perception that third-party lens options for Nikon cameras are limited.

Video Features

8/10

The Z8 supports 8K raw recording and offers excellent video quality with effective autofocus. However, overheating can occur during extended high-resolution recording sessions.

Quotes from Reviewers

P

PetaPixel

The Z8 supports 8K raw recording and ProRes 422 HQ internally, offering excellent video quality.

P

PetaPixel

Overheating can occur during extended 8K or 4K 60 fps recording sessions.

Build Quality

8/10

The Z8 has a robust build with a comfortable grip and user-friendly design. However, it lacks a flip-out display and has mediocre battery life compared to the Z9.

Quotes from Reviewers

P

PetaPixel

The camera has a robust build with a large grip, making it comfortable to hold.

P

PetaPixel

It lacks a flip-out display, which may not be ideal for vlogging or filming oneself.

4

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

Score: 9/10

Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

The advanced Dual Pixel Autofocus system works well for both photography and video, with a 61-point AF system that is sensitive down to -3EV.

Image Quality

9/10

The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV offers fantastic image quality with its 30.4MP full-frame sensor, excellent low-light performance, and vibrant colors. However, the large RAW file sizes and older technology may pose challenges.

Quotes from Reviewers

B

Brian Kissig

The colors are fantastic, and the resolution is awesome.

B

Brian Kissig

It's a 30-megapixel sensor, which isn't the highest, but every one of those 30 megapixels is filled with tremendous and sharp quality.

B

Brian Kissig

It works very well in low-light conditions, as well as at higher ISO values.

Lens Options

8/10

The camera supports a large catalog of EF lenses, including high-quality L series lenses, but may require new lens purchases if you don't own EF lenses.

Quotes from Reviewers

B

Brian Kissig

Canon offers a large catalog of choices when it comes to its EF series of lenses, suitable for all occasions, scenarios, and budgets.

B

Brian Kissig

As creatives move away from EF mount cameras and purchase RF equipment, it's becoming increasingly likely that you can acquire older EF lenses, which still work incredibly well, at significantly reduced prices.

Video Features

7/10

The camera offers 4K filming with DPAF for easier video shooting, but has limitations like a 1.74x crop and only Motion JPEG format for 4K.

Quotes from Reviewers

B

Brian Kissig

The 5D Mark 4 was expected to have a 4K filming option at 24 frames per second, but it was a major letdown to hear that it came with a crop factor of 1.74.

B

Brian Kissig

The 8-bit C-Log on the 5D Mark IV is quite mushy and doesn't always color grade as well as the newer R series.

Build Quality

8/10

The camera is robust and well-built with ergonomic design, dual card slots, and connectivity options, but is heavier and bulkier than newer models.

Quotes from Reviewers

B

Brian Kissig

Its build quality is spot-on after 2 years of traveling and running around.

B

Brian Kissig

The 5D Mark IV is a tank of a camera, but, man, is it heavy, weighing in at a mighty 890 grams without a lens.

5

Nikon Z9

Score: 9/10

Nikon Z9

The Z9's autofocus system is advanced, with 493 focus points and excellent subject tracking, though it may lose tracking in some sports situations.

Autofocus System

9/10

J

Jared Polin

The Z9 has a brand new, updated autofocus system with 493 focus points and 3D detection with subject tracking.

J

Jared Polin

3D tracking with subject detection is spot-on; it really can't miss.

J

Jared Polin

The Nikon Z9 has nine types of subject detection, including people, animals, and vehicles.

J

Jared Polin

We've talked about how wonderful it is that 3D tracking is back on a Nikon body, and it works great.

Image Quality

9/10

The Nikon Z9 offers excellent image quality with its 45.7MP sensor, providing high resolution and impressive low-light performance. However, it has slightly worse dynamic range compared to some competitors and potential flicker issues with LED lights.

Quotes from Reviewers

J

Jared Polin

The Z9, with its 45.7 megapixels, actually has impressive low-light capabilities thanks to the native ISO that ranges from 64 all the way to 25,600 ISO.

J

Jared Polin

The Nikon Z9 is a fast-shooting camera, capable of 20 frames per second, whether you're shooting in lossless compressed or lossy compressed formats.

J

Jared Polin

The image quality on the Z9 is excellent compared to the Sony A1. Again, I just feel like it's neck and neck compared to the Nikon Z7 II.

J

Jared Polin

There are some rare situations where high-frequency LED lights and artificial lights might cause flicker.

Lens Options

9/10

The Z9 is compatible with a wide range of lenses, including new options and older F-mount lenses via an adapter, making it versatile for various shooting needs.

Quotes from Reviewers

J

Jared Polin

Another exciting release from Nikon, coming out at the same time as the Z9, is a new lens I have here: the 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 zoom lens.

J

Jared Polin

It offers five and a half stops of vibration reduction.

J

Jared Polin

It also offers inner balance technology to help maintain the center of gravity.

Video Features

8/10

The Z9 offers robust video features, including 8K video and internal raw recording, though some features are disabled by default and require firmware updates.

Quotes from Reviewers

J

Jared Polin

The Nikon Z9 can shoot 8K video at up to 30 frames per second.

J

Jared Polin

It also has 4K 120fps video recording capability internally.

J

Jared Polin

The Nikon Z9 can shoot 4K 10-bit ProRes internally.

J

Jared Polin

The performance on it is excellent. Using Chris's laptop, we were able to edit 8.3K raw video at a playable frame rate.

Build Quality

8/10

The Z9 is built with a durable magnesium alloy chassis and weather-sealing, though its large size and lack of a mechanical shutter may be drawbacks.

Quotes from Reviewers

J

Jared Polin

The Z9 is the quintessential camera for professional sports photographers.

J

Jared Polin

It has mission-critical build quality and so much more.

J

Jared Polin

The Nikon Z9 is compatible with EN-EL18 series batteries, which are the same as those used in the D6.

J

Jared Polin

The Z9 has an integrated vertical grip, which is perfect for vertical orientation.

6

Sony A7 IV

Score: 9/10

Sony A7 IV

The A7 IV boasts an advanced AI autofocus system with excellent tracking capabilities for humans, animals, and birds, though it occasionally misfocuses and isn't as advanced as the A7R V.

Autofocus System

9/10

E

Engadget

Sony's Alpha cameras are renowned for their autofocus and shooting performance, and the A7 IV continues that tradition.

E

Engadget

The A74 consistently nails focus in most situations, particularly when capturing people in tricky situations with complex lighting.

E

Engadget

The Sony A74 captures 40% more sharp shots thanks to its vastly improved autofocus system.

Image Quality

8/10

The Sony A7 IV offers high-resolution images with excellent low-light performance and dynamic range. However, noise becomes an issue at higher ISOs, and rolling shutter can be problematic.

Quotes from Reviewers

E

Engadget

The A74 performs even better than Sony's low-light champ, the A7S3.

E

Engadget

Images are clean and usable in most low-light situations, right up to ISO 12800.

E

Engadget

The 14-bit RAW images deliver up to 13 stops of dynamic range.

E

Engadget

Rolling shutter is still an issue because we don't have a very fast scan speed on this sensor.

Lens Options

7/10

The A7 IV supports a range of high-quality lenses and memory cards, but CFexpress Type A cards are expensive and hard to find, and lens breathing compensation is limited to select lenses.

Quotes from Reviewers

E

Engadget

The A74 features a dual-slot card system that supports both SD UHS-II and the much faster CFexpress Type A cards.

E

Engadget

The breathing compensation function introduces a slight digital zoom that counteracts any change in focal length when switching to a new subject.

E

Engadget

CFexpress Type A cards are still only used in Sony cameras, making them relatively hard to find and quite expensive.

Video Features

7/10

The A7 IV offers strong 4K video capabilities with 10-bit color and advanced profiles, but suffers from rolling shutter issues and lacks 4K 120fps support.

Quotes from Reviewers

E

Engadget

The A74 is Sony's most advanced camera yet, especially when it comes to autofocus.

E

Engadget

The A74 can shoot downsampled 4K video at up to 30p, using the full width of the sensor.

E

Engadget

The lack of noise at high ISO ranges is a significant advantage, making the camera usable in many more situations.

E

Engadget

The rolling shutter can be quite severe in 30p mode when using the full width of the sensor.

Build Quality

8/10

The A7 IV features a robust build with a substantial grip and a fully articulating touchscreen, but lacks some controls and has a smaller display compared to competitors.

Quotes from Reviewers

E

Engadget

The A74 has the same body, apart from a few differences. First off, it has the A1's nice big grip, so it's a delight to hold and use.

E

Engadget

The rear touch display can fully articulate, rather than just tilt out, making it better for portrait shooting.

E

Engadget

The A74 features a dual-slot card system that supports both SD UHS-II and the much faster CFexpress Type A cards.

7

Canon EOS R6 Mark II

Score: 9/10

Canon EOS R6 Mark II

The autofocus system is highly effective with over a thousand active phase detect points, performing well in low light and tracking fast-moving subjects accurately. It excels in action, sports, and wildlife photography.

Autofocus System

9/10

D

DPReview TV

The autofocus performed very effectively, especially in low light conditions.

D

DPReview TV

The Canon R6 Mark II has a really powerful subject detection autofocus that works on people, animals, cars, airplanes, insects—pretty much anything you can throw at this camera.

Image Quality

8/10

The Canon EOS R6 Mark II delivers improved image quality with a new 24.2MP sensor, offering better resolution and excellent low-light performance. It provides natural color rendition and effective image stabilization, though it has slightly less dynamic range compared to some competitors.

Quotes from Reviewers

D

DPReview TV

The new 24-megapixel sensor is the most significant improvement in this camera, offering enhanced image quality, better low-light sensitivity, and a greater dynamic range than before.

D

DPReview TV

JPEGs have good levels of detail without excessive sharpening. Color accuracy is good, and skin tones are more pleasing than those of any other cameras I've tried recently.

D

DPReview TV

The R6 Mark II is actually better than the original model in low-light conditions, despite the extra pixels.

Lens Options

7/10

Canon offers a range of high-quality RF lenses, and the RF to EF adapter allows the use of older Canon EF lenses. However, the lack of third-party RF lens options makes them more expensive.

Quotes from Reviewers

D

DPReview TV

Canon does not permit third-party companies to manufacture lenses for the Canon RF mount.

D

DPReview TV

I would actually recommend using the RF to EF adapter that Canon also makes and using Sigma lenses, which are disturbingly sharp.

Video Features

8/10

The R6 Mark II offers super sampled full-frame 4K video up to 60 fps with no crop, improved rolling shutter performance, and reliable autofocus. It supports 10-bit color with Canon C-log 3.

Quotes from Reviewers

D

DPReview TV

The EOS R6 Mark II offers super-sampled full-frame 4K video at up to 60 frames per second.

D

DPReview TV

Canon's dual pixel video autofocus is a strong point, especially with single point autofocus for run-and-gun shooting, interviews, and similar situations.

Build Quality

8/10

The camera has a robust build with a comfortable grip and well-placed controls. It features extensive weather-sealing and a high-quality electronic viewfinder.

Quotes from Reviewers

D

DPReview TV

The grip is large, comfortable, and tacky, providing a secure hold with no discomfort even after hours of use.

D

DPReview TV

The power switch is now on the right, allowing for easier access.

8

Sony a6700

Score: 9/10

Sony a6700

The a6700's autofocus system is excellent, featuring 759 points with real-time tracking and AI-based algorithms. However, it lacks an autofocus joystick, and real-time recognition is limited to preset subjects.

Autofocus System

9/10

G

Gerald Undone

It has 759 autofocus points that cover almost the whole screen, approximately 95% or so.

G

Gerald Undone

The real-time tracking autofocus for photo and video is incredible, and I've tested it extensively.

G

Gerald Undone

This now makes use of the new AI-based algorithms for autofocus and subject detection that debuted on the Sony a7r5, and it is very effective.

G

Gerald Undone

We don't have an auto-focusing joystick.

Image Quality

8/10

The Sony a6700 delivers high-quality images with its 26-megapixel sensor, offering good dynamic range and low light performance. However, the LCD screen and viewfinder lack resolution upgrades, and noise is noticeable at higher ISO levels.

Quotes from Reviewers

G

Gerald Undone

This camera uses the same 26-megapixel sensor that we saw in the FX30.

G

Gerald Undone

The oversampled 4K, from 24p up to 60p, reads at 16.1 ms.

G

Gerald Undone

It has also inherited a few terrific features from other recent Sony releases.

G

Gerald Undone

I also noticed a slight color shift as I moved through the ISO range.

Lens Options

9/10

The a6700 offers a wide range of lens options, including third-party choices, thanks to its established E Mount system. This makes it versatile for various shooting needs, though some lenses may be creatively limiting.

Quotes from Reviewers

Video Features

8/10

The a6700 offers strong video features, including 4K 60p oversampled from 6K and 10-bit recording. However, it may overheat during long sessions, and stabilization isn't perfect.

Quotes from Reviewers

G

Gerald Undone

At 120p, we lose nearly 2 stops on our medium score due to the significantly more prevalent noise.

G

Gerald Undone

The 4K120 also has an overheating problem.

G

Gerald Undone

This camera has the latest processor from Sony.

G

Gerald Undone

The camera supports 4K 60p, oversampled from 6K, 4K 120p, and features like S-Log3 and auto crop mode for video.

Build Quality

7/10

The a6700 has a sturdy build with improved handling and weather resistance. However, it only has one SD card slot and a confusing menu system.

Quotes from Reviewers

G

Gerald Undone

They added a third dial to the front of the camera.

G

Gerald Undone

It is dust and moisture resistant.

G

Gerald Undone

The grip is actually a little bit larger, and that's something I felt these always needed.

G

Gerald Undone

The camera has only one SD card slot and lacks a locking battery door.

9

Sony ZV-E1

Score: 9/10

Sony ZV-E1

The ZV-E1 features an incredible autofocus system with advanced subject detection and tracking, making it highly responsive for both video and photo.

Autofocus System

9/10

G

Gerald Undone

The autofocus was incredible on the a7R V, and it's just as incredible here.

G

Gerald Undone

This has the same auto-focusing algorithms that we have in the advanced Sony a7R5.

Image Quality

7/10

The Sony ZV-E1 offers excellent image quality with its 10-bit color and S-Cinetone profile, but its 12MP resolution may not meet the needs of serious photographers. It lacks a mechanical shutter, which can lead to rolling shutter issues.

Quotes from Reviewers

G

Gerald Undone

This camera shares many of the same internals as the A7S III and FX3.

G

Gerald Undone

It is using the same sensor and processor.

G

Gerald Undone

The image comes straight out of this camera.

G

Gerald Undone

The Sony Ace 7s3 sensor has 12 megapixels, which might not be enough for serious photographers.

Lens Options

7/10

The ZV-E1 is compatible with a wide range of lenses, offering versatility. However, the 28mm kit lens may not be ideal for vlogging, and the camera is limited to one SD card slot.

Quotes from Reviewers

G

Gerald Undone

Sony is offering this camera as a kit with the 28-60mm lens.

G

Gerald Undone

I wish Sony would make a bundle with the 20 to 70 F4.

Video Features

8/10

The ZV-E1 offers 4K60 recording with excellent stabilization and advanced video features, though it lacks 8K recording and may have overheating issues.

Quotes from Reviewers

G

Gerald Undone

Currently, it only supports up to 4K at 60 frames per second.

G

Gerald Undone

This camera will perform quite well in an environment of 22°C or lower.

G

Gerald Undone

The new subject detection features extend well beyond just this new microphone and are among the most interesting aspects of this camera.

G

Gerald Undone

It is now limited to the total width of the sensor.

Build Quality

6/10

The ZV-E1 is the smallest and lightest full-frame camera from Sony, but it lacks an EVF and has limited build quality compared to the FX3.

Quotes from Reviewers

G

Gerald Undone

This is Sony's smallest full-frame camera to date.

G

Gerald Undone

Overall, the build quality certainly isn't as good as that of the FX3.

G

Gerald Undone

It doesn't have an EVF.

10

Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III

Score: 9/10

Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III

The dual pixel autofocus system is fast and accurate, performing well in both stills and video, even in low light. The electronic viewfinder could be more powerful.

Image Quality

8/10

The Canon PowerShot G1 X Mark III offers excellent image quality with its 24.2 megapixel APS-C sensor, providing great dynamic range and low-light performance. However, noise at high ISO settings and limited bracketing features are drawbacks.

Quotes from Reviewers

T

Tech Gear Talk

The G1 X Mark 3 has a 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor.

T

Tech Gear Talk

The G1 X Mark 3 has the ATD sensor with a 24-megapixel APS-C.

T

Tech Gear Talk

We've proven this sensor to be excellent in low light with great dynamic range.

Lens Options

6/10

The built-in 24-72mm zoom lens with dual sensing optical image stabilization offers versatility, but the lack of interchangeable lenses and limited zoom range are notable limitations.

Quotes from Reviewers

T

Tech Gear Talk

It has a built-in 24 to 72 millimeter equivalent lens that also incorporates dual-sensing optical image stabilization.

T

Tech Gear Talk

With this zoom, you know we're not talking about something like a Ricoh GR or a Nikon Coolpix; we've got an actual zoom here.

Video Features

6/10

The camera can shoot 1080p video at 60fps with good stabilization and a fully articulating touchscreen, but lacks 4K and slow-motion capabilities.

Quotes from Reviewers

T

Tech Gear Talk

It can shoot video at up to 1080p and 60 frames per second.

T

Tech Gear Talk

It features a 3-inch fully articulating touchscreen.

Build Quality

7/10

The compact and lightweight design with a textured surface offers easy handling, but the battery life is shorter compared to some competitors.

Quotes from Reviewers

T

Tech Gear Talk

This G1 X Mark 3 is so compact. I mean, I love the new body design and the new size.

T

Tech Gear Talk

The G1X Mark 3 has a very new body design, but it's not really a new design because other cameras already use it.

T

Tech Gear Talk

It is incredible that they were able to fit that APS-C sensor in here.