THE 10 BEST FULL FRAME DSLRs TO BUY IN 2017

BEST DSLR CAMERAS OF 2017

Our pick of the best full-frame DSLRs from Canon, Nikon, Pentax and Sony

Digital SLR cameras (or DSLRs for short) are among the best of the best: they have the largest sensors, the most megapixels, and the highest quality selection of lenses. Below we break down the leading DSLRs on the market in 2017 using three categories: full frame (professional), semi-pro, and entry level. Full-frame DSLRs offer the best image quality but also are the bulkiest and most expensive. Semi-pro and entry-level DSLRs (called DX for Nikon and APS-C for Canon) have smaller image sensors but still can create outstanding images and cost considerably less. No matter your price range, there are great options and overall quality and available features continue to improve each year. For more information, see our DSLR comparison table and buying advice below the picks.

1. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

One of the most complete DSLRs we've seen Canon's EOS 5D series of cameras has a rich heritage – the original EOS 5D bought full-frame photography to the masses, while the Mark II unleashed Full HD video capture for the first time on a DSLR, starting a whole new genre of DSLR movie-making. That's not forgetting the Mark III, which while not as groundbreaking perhaps as the two models before it, became a firm favourite amongst photographers. The 5D Mark IV pretty much tweaks and improves on everything the Mark III offered. This includes a brilliant new 30.4MP sensor that delivers pin-sharp results, an advanced 61-point AF system that's incredibly sophisticated, a pro-spec performance, 4K video and some very polished handling. Put this all together, along with a host of other features and it all combines to make the EOS 5D Mark IV one of the best DSLRs we've seen.

Advanced AF system
Stunning performance
Expensive compared to rivals
4K video options limited
$3115

2. Nikon D810

It may have recently been ousted from the top spot, but this is still a terrific choice It might be getting on a bit now (it was launched back in the summer of 2014), but the Nikon D810 is still one of the best DSLRs around, and still gives the EOS 5D Mark IV a good run for its money to boot. Images from Nikon's 36.3 megapixel monster are bursting with detail, while its 1200-shot battery life puts the 50.6MP EOS 5DS in the shade. We're also fans of the D810's clarity micro-contrast adjustment with its video-friendly Flat mode for maximum dynamic range. The 51-point AF system copes well with tricky focussing situations, mainly because both the AF and metering systems are taken from the now ex-range-topping Nikon D4S. Excellent handling and relatively modest dimensions further ensure that the D810 doesn't disappoint.

5fps continuous shooting
AA-filterless, high-res sensor
No built-in Wi-Fi
Large file sizes
$2796

3. Canon EOS 5DS

Proof that more can mean better: the 5DS sets a new standard for DSLR photography With 50.6 million effective pixels, the Canon EOS 5DS is by far the highest resolution full-frame DSLR on the market today. The same goes for the 5DS R, which is identical to the 5DS, but features an anti-aliasing cancelation filter over the sensor to help resolve a little more detail should you need it. Pixel-packed sensors can be compromised, but not here. Image quality is superb, with as you'd expect fantastic detail, well controlled noise and good dynamic range, making it the ideal choice for the landscape or studio photographer. The EOS 5DS is now the benchmark for full-frame image quality, but it's not quite perfect. There's no Wi-Fi or 4K video recording and huge image file sizes necessitate decent memory cards and a fast computer.

Great AF, metering and white balance
Stunningly detailed images
Huge file sizes
No Wi-Fi
$2454

4. Nikon D750

A full frame DSLR packed with features for a reasonable price? Yes please Can't quite stretch to one of our top three options? Then the Nikon D750 should be at the top of your list. The D750 still packs a cracking 24.3MP sensor and is as weatherproof as the D810, yet it's roughly 25% cheaper. Compared to its baby brother, the D610, the D750 has a superior 51-point AF system, as well as more advanced metering and video capabilities. That's not forgetting the wider sensitivity range, useful tilting screen and Wi-Fi connectivity. Its continuous shooting speed of 6.5fps isn't quite as fast as some may have hoped for, but on the whole the Nikon D750 is a well-rounded, well-priced choice for enthusiast photographers.

High performance AF system
New 24MP sensor
Disappointing special effects
Tiltable screen doesn't fully articulate
$1971

5. Nikon D5

Nikon's flagship DSLR has the best AF system we've ever seen The D5 is Nikon's latest flagship DSLR, and it certainly doesn't disappoint. 20.8 megapixels might seem a bit stingy, but it means the D5 can shoot at 12fps continuous shooting, while the extended ISO range of ISO 3,280,000 has never been seen before in a camera. That's even before we get to the autofocus system - with a coverage of 173 AF points (99 of which are cross-type), the sophistication and speed of the AF is staggering. The ability to shoot 4K video is restricted to three minutes however, but that aside the D5 is a phenomenal camera that's used by professionals the world over.

Massive ISO range
Incredible AF performance
4K recording limited to 3mins
Heavy
$6496

6. Canon EOS-1D X Mark II

Canon's latest top-flight DSLR is a speed machine Choosing between the EOS-1D X Mark II and Nikon D5 will most likely depend on which manufacturer you're already tied to with your lens system, but the two cameras are otherwise pretty closely matched. With the EOS-1D X Mark II, Canon has created a very powerful and versatile camera that's a great choice for professional sport and news photographers thanks to a blistering 14fps burst shooting. It doesn't have the outrageous sensitivity range of the Nikon D5, but it's very capable in low light, delivering excellent images within its standard sensitivity range.

14fps burst shooting
Excellent control layout
Menu could be clearer
Touchscreen functionality limited
$5999

7. Sony Alpha A99 II

Sony’s flagship A-mount camera marries high-resolution stills with 4K shooting Sony has made some significant changes from the original A99 for this latest iteration, and the result is a camera that should satisfy a broad range of users. The high-resolution 42.2MP sensor at the camera’s heart is the A99 II’s greatest asset, while 4K video quality is also very good. At the same time the camera maintains much of what we loved about the A99, with excellent handing and the benefits of the SLT system presenting very real advantages over more traditional DSLRs. The arrival of the mirrorless Alpha A9 though takes the shine off a little.

Fast AF system
Superb image quality
Short battery life
No touchscreen
$3198

8. Canon EOS 5D Mark III

It may be a generation old, but the Mark III is still a great DSLR It may have been replaced by the Mark IV, but the Mark III is still a great choice for those after a feature-packed full-frame DSLR. If you don't need the extra pixels, then the 22.3MP sensor won't disappoint, delivering excellent results through the ISO range. Just make sure you shoot raw to get the best results. The AF performance is very good too, with the 61-point AF system at home shooting a range of subjects. This is backed-up with a decent all-round performance and polished handling, while it's also incredibly well made, with a durable metal finish. The arrival of the new EOS 6D Mark II, with its higher pixel count and vari-angle screen might mean though that this becomes a little less of a tempting proposition once the new camera becomes available.

High image quality
Comprehensive controls
No built-in flash
Heavy-handed noise reduction
$2079

9. Pentax K-1

Pentax's first full-frame DSLR The K-1 from Pentax offers a rugged build and a full-frame sensor at a relatively affordable price. It's not cheap, but it compares favourably with the likes of the Nikon D810, Canon 5D Mark III and Sony Alpha 7R II. Pentax's Pixel Shift Technology is clever, and it's great that the company has managed to produce a mode that can be used when the camera is hand-held, although the impact is subtle. Less of an all-rounder than the 5D Mark III, the K-1 makes an excellent camera for landscape, still life and portrait photography, or any genre that doesn't require fast autofocus and which benefits from a high pixel count for detail resolution.

Competitive price
Impressive features
Slow AF system
Dated menu system
$1946

10. Nikon D610

Looking to step up to a full-frame DSLR? Nikon has the camera for you The D750 is good value, but the D610 gets you into the world of full-frame photography for even less. Much less in fact than some of Nikon's APS-C DSLRS. It's only an incremental upgrade over the preceding D600, but it addresses that camera's issues and boasts top-notch image and build quality. Although its pixel count is the same as the cheaper APS-C D7200, the increased sensor size results in greater dynamic range and less image noise. Full-frame is the name of the game, so extra features like Wi-Fi or a tilting screen are absent, but the 39-point AF system is reliable and the 6fps continuous shooting speed respectable. The D610 is slightly overshadowed by the newer D750, but it's still an decent camera. It's getting on a little bit though and due for upgrade.

Restricted AF point coverage
Resolved sensor issues
No Wi-Fi, fixed screen
$1496.95

Buying Advice

DSLR Categories
Image Sensor Size
Megapixels
Autofocus
Video
Rear LCD Screen
Wi-Fi
Weather Sealing
Lens Types
Canon and Nikon Domination
What About Mirrorless?

DSLR Categories

There are a wide range of DSLRs on the market, and you can spend anywhere from $300 for an entry-level model up to $6,000 or more for full frame. For the purposes of this article, we use the three categories below.

Full-frame (Professional) DSLRs
The vast majority of professional photographers use full-frame cameras, which have by far the largest image sensors at 36x24mm. These cameras are the most expensive and the bulkiest but the image and video quality truly is outstanding. Those without significant photography experience should not necessarily feel intimidated by full-frame cameras—auto settings allow for easy operation, although many learn to use the manual functionality down the road. In 2017, you can expect to spend around $1,500 and up for a new full-frame DSLR (the old Canon 6D is the cheapest).

Enthusiast (Semi-Pro) DSLRs
Crop sensor cameras (also called APS-C) are the most common type of DSLR. The image sensors are roughly 24x16mm (Nikon and Canon’s sensor dimensions vary slightly), and the cameras have a smaller field of view than full frame. Both semi-pro and entry-level DSLRs have crop sensors, but the former are loaded with advanced features like fast shooting speeds, high-end autofocus systems, dual memory card slots, and just about every other bell and whistle you can think of. Semi-pro DSLRs are in the $1,000 to $2,000 price range.

Entry Level DSLRs
The best-selling DSLRs are found at the entry level. Models include the Nikon D5000 and D3000 series, and Canon’s Rebel series. The image sensors and megapixels in the entry-level class are similar to semi-pro but these cameras offer fewer advanced features (as the price gets lower features get stripped away). The good news is that you still get great image quality for the price and these DSLRs perform better and are less expensive than ever. Entry-level DSLRs generally cost between $400 and $800 with a kit lens included.

Sensor Size

Here at Switchback Travel, we praise sensor size over megapixels, which has a larger impact on image quality. As mentioned above, there are two main image sensor sizes to choose from when buying a DSLR:

Full frame DSLRs: 36 x 24mm = 866 sq. mm (or slightly smaller).
Crop sensor DSLRs (Nikon “DX” or Canon APS-C”): 24 x 16mm = 366 sq. mm (or slightly smaller).

Digital SLR Comparison Table DSLR PRICE CATEGORY MP SENSOR WEIGHT BURST 4K WEATHER Canon EOS 5D Mark IV $3,299 Full frame 30.4 864 sq. mm 28.2 oz. 7 fps Yes Yes Nikon D810 $2,797 Full frame 36.3 861 sq. mm 31.1 oz. 5 fps No Yes Canon EOS 5DS R $3,699 Full frame 50.6 864 sq. mm 29.7 oz. 5 fps No Yes Canon EOS 6D $1,399 Full frame 20.2 855 sq. mm 26.8 oz. 4.5 fps No Yes Nikon D750 $,1897 Full frame 24.3 861 sq. mm 26.5 oz. 6 fps No Yes Nikon D500 $1,897 Enthusiast 20.9 369 sq. mm 30.3 oz. 10 fps Yes Yes Pentax K-1 $1,794 Full frame 36.4 864 sq. mm 32.6 oz. 4.5 fps No Yes Canon EOS 80D $1,099 Enthusiast 24.6 337 sq. mm 25.8 oz. 7 fps No Yes Nikon D7200 $997 Enthusiast 24.2 366 sq. mm 23.8 oz. 6 fps No Yes Canon EOS 7D Mark II $1,499 Enthusiast 20.2 336 sq. mm 32.1 oz. 10 fps No Yes Pentax K-70 $871 Entry level + 24.24 366 sq. mm 24.3 oz. 6 fps No Yes Nikon D5500 $697 Entry level + 24.2 366 sq. mm 14.2 oz. 5 fps No No Canon EOS Rebel T7i $849 Entry level + 24.2 332 sq. mm 18.8 oz. 6 fps No No Sony Alpha a68 $698 Entry level + 24.2 366 sq. mm 24.6 oz. 8 fps Yes No Nikon D3400 $497 Entry level 24.2 357 sq. mm 15.1 oz. 5 fps No No Canon EOS Rebel T5 $346 Entry level 18 332 sq. mm 15.3 oz. 3 fps No No Buying Advice DSLR Categories Image Sensor Size Megapixels Autofocus Video Rear LCD Screen Wi-Fi Weather Sealing Lens Types Canon and Nikon Domination What About Mirrorless? DSLR Categories There are a wide range of DSLRs on the market, and you can spend anywhere from $300 for an entry-level model up to $6,000 or more for full frame. For the purposes of this article, we use the three categories below. Full-frame (Professional) DSLRs The vast majority of professional photographers use full-frame cameras, which have by far the largest image sensors at 36x24mm. These cameras are the most expensive and the bulkiest but the image and video quality truly is outstanding. Those without significant photography experience should not necessarily feel intimidated by full-frame cameras—auto settings allow for easy operation, although many learn to use the manual functionality down the road. In 2017, you can expect to spend around $1,500 and up for a new full-frame DSLR (the old Canon 6D is the cheapest). Enthusiast (Semi-Pro) DSLRs Crop sensor cameras (also called APS-C) are the most common type of DSLR. The image sensors are roughly 24x16mm (Nikon and Canon’s sensor dimensions vary slightly), and the cameras have a smaller field of view than full frame. Both semi-pro and entry-level DSLRs have crop sensors, but the former are loaded with advanced features like fast shooting speeds, high-end autofocus systems, dual memory card slots, and just about every other bell and whistle you can think of. Semi-pro DSLRs are in the $1,000 to $2,000 price range. Entry Level DSLRs The best-selling DSLRs are found at the entry level. Models include the Nikon D5000 and D3000 series, and Canon’s Rebel series. The image sensors and megapixels in the entry-level class are similar to semi-pro but these cameras offer fewer advanced features (as the price gets lower features get stripped away). The good news is that you still get great image quality for the price and these DSLRs perform better and are less expensive than ever. Entry-level DSLRs generally cost between $400 and $800 with a kit lens included. Sensor Size Here at Switchback Travel, we praise sensor size over megapixels, which has a larger impact on image quality. As mentioned above, there are two main image sensor sizes to choose from when buying a DSLR: Full frame DSLRs: 36 x 24mm = 866 sq. mm (or slightly smaller). Crop sensor DSLRs (Nikon “DX” or Canon APS-C”): 24 x 16mm = 366 sq. mm (or slightly smaller).

Full-frame DSLRs have the largest sensors at roughly 36 x 24mm. Crop sensors are by far the most common, measuring approximately 23.5 x 15.6mm for Nikon’s DX cameras and 22.3 x 14.9mm for Canon’s APS-C. The good news is that large sensors are a big reason that many people choose DSLRs in the first place, and even a crop sensor camera is capable of producing professional-grade images that can be enlarged and hung on your wall. Professionals feel the extra cost of full frame is worth it, but most amateurs stick with crop sensor models. Megapixels Megapixels matter, but not as much as marketers would lead you to believe. It’s the combination of megapixels and sensor size that determine image resolution. Many newer entry-level and mid-range DSLRs offer megapixels counts around 24, including popular models like the Nikon D5500, D3400, and Canon T7i. Canon made a jump from the T5i (18 megapixels) to the T6i and T6S (24.2 megapixels) to finally catch up with Nikon in that department. The truth is that megapixels should merely be one factor of many when making a camera buying decision. It’s worth noting when major jumps were made: the Canon T5i to the T6i, for example, or the D3100 to the D3200. But most crop sensor DSLRs are comparable in megapixels and the small differences won’t make or break the quality of your photos. At the top end of the DSLR spectrum, there is more megapixel variation. A big battle is between the full-frame Nikon D810 (36.3 megapixels) and the Canon 5D Mark IV (30.2), which represents a notable difference if you plan on enlarging photos for professional purposes. And last year, Canon released the 5DS R, which boasts an incredible 50.6 megapixels. Those spreads matter much more than at the APS-C level.

Autofocus

With specs like megapixels and image sensor getting most of the attention, don’t overlook the importance of autofocus. Many cheaper digital SLRs cut costs with inferior autofocus, including the number of focus points and type (phase detection and contrast detection). An extraordinarily inexpensive DSLR like the Canon Rebel T5 ($399) has merely 1 cross-type focus point, while the Canon EOS 7D Mark II has a whopping 65 cross-type focus points. That’s a staggering difference between two APS-C cameras from the same brand. Unfortunately, there aren’t hard-and-fast rules as to what constitutes great autofocus, but you can start with the number and type of focus points. Multiple focus points help improve accuracy, so the more the better. Contrast Detection is slower than Phase Detection, and cross-type sensors are more accurate than vertical line sensors. Understanding the full complexities of autofocus is worthy of a full article in itself, but generally you can expect the quality of the autofocus to correlate with the price of the camera. If a DSLR is an outlier to this rule, we will let you know in the write-ups above.

Video

Video is all the rage in 2017. In terms of video resolution, 1080p is the standard with some high-end DSLRs like the Nikon D500 now offering 4K. Generally, cheap DSLRs shoot inferior video compared to mid-range and high-end models. Factors to consider include the quality of the autofocus, size and type of the image sensor, video speeds that the camera offers, and lenses that you intend to use. The audio capabilities of DSLRs also vary significantly as do the outputs. Over the years, Canon DSLRs have been known for producing the best video. Nikon bridged the gap recently but the distinction remains. For example, the entry-level Canon Rebel series is best in class in terms of video quality, and Canon has geared its kit lenses accordingly by adding STM (Stepping Motor) technology for smooth and silent video focusing. In the enthusiast DSLR category, the Nikon D500 and Canon 7D Mark II shoot by far the best video with autofocus and speed that can challenge many full-frame cameras. At the top end of the full-frame market, we are now seeing some divergence between video and still design. The new 50.6-megapixel Canon 5DS R does not include video-centric features like headphone sockets or an HDMI output. We understand the rationale: many dedicated videographers have cameras specifically for that purpose. It’s a good idea to have separate models with higher resolution sensors like the 5DS R that aren’t as good for video.

Rear LCD Screen

It seems like every DSLR update includes a higher resolution LCD screen with more features. That’s a good thing, and we particularly like touchscreen functionality that allows you to navigate the camera’s settings with more than a simple thumb toggle. Some LCD screens tilt and articulate, meaning that they are moveable depending on the angle of your shot (this is really handy for video shooters). A tilting or articulating LCD screen does add weight to the camera, which is something to keep in mind. And many pro full-frame DSLR do not have tilting or articulating screens—this feature is most popular on consumer models for people use for hand-held videos.

Wi-Fi Built-in

Wi-Fi is a nice perk available on most new DSLRs, allowing you to transfer and upload photos and video to your device or social media platform directly from the camera (some even offer light in-camera editing). The software and Wi-Fi platforms vary, and some are easier to use and less buggy than others, but we like the option of using Wi-Fi. One thing to keep in mind: using Wi-Fi to transfer photos all of the time can eventually take a toll on your camera’s processor. Don’t be afraid to use Wi-Fi, but if you have a cord handy and it’s convenient to transfer photos in that manner, doing so may help prolong the life of your camera.

Weather Sealing

Some enthusiast and full-frame DSLR cameras are weather sealed for added protection from the elements (you can see our full list of weather-sealed DSLRs here). Weather sealing varies by model and there aren’t universal standards, but the process involves adding rubber sealing and housing on the body and around the buttons to make the camera more resistant to moisture and dust (both can be an absolute killer to your electronics). Calling these cameras weatherproof or waterproof would be an exaggeration, but they can handle tough conditions well and are popular among those who frequently are out in the field shooting in inclement weather.

Lens Types

When choosing a digital SLR camera, you’re also choosing a family of lenses that may stay with you for an extended period of time. If you buy a Nikon or Canon DSLR and start acquiring specialty lenses, you may want to upgrade your camera every few years, but with proper care the lenses should last for decades. Just as Canon cameras offer superior video, Nikon glass is preferred by a small majority of professional photographers that we know. However, both brands have extensive collections of crop and full-frame lenses, including a wide range of zooms and primes. You can’t go wrong with either brand, but keep in mind that there are transaction costs associated with selling lenses and buying new ones. Many people start with one brand and stay with it for convenience and cost effectiveness.

Ease of Use

Some people are intimidated by the prospect of using a DSLR and instead stick with their point-and-shoot camera or smartphone. These worries are unfounded: DSLRs across the spectrum from entry level to full frame have automatic shooting modes that do almost all of the work for you. It’s also true that they have advanced and manual features that really can make your photography shine. Our advice is to read the manual when you first buy a DSLR and watch the short introductory videos on its functionality. Before taking a big trip where you really want great photographs, head out for a test shoot to experiment and look at your results. You can always shoot with auto mode in a pinch, but it’s nice to have some fluency with things like shutter speed, ISO, and lens aperture. The process takes time, but with all of the available settings on today’s models, there is no reason to avoid taking the DSLR plunge. For a full list of beginner options, see our article on the best entry-level DSLRs.

A Note on Canon and Nikon Domination

It’s true that Canon and Nikon dominate this list. This is not the case in other camera categories (see our article on the best mirrorless cameras, for example), but Canon and Nikon flat out make the best DSLRs and have by far the largest collection of lenses. Both have been doing so for many decades and cameras from other manufacturers did not crack this list in any of our categories: full frame, semi-pro, or entry level. If you are interested in looking elsewhere, Sony has an interesting collection of digital SLRs, including the full-frame Sony a99 and new crop sensor a68. Pentax makes a number of DSLRs that are known for their excellent weather sealing, but you’re dealing with a pretty limited collection of lenses. At the end of the day, both from a price and quality perspective, we think Canon and Nikon DSLRs make the most sense.

What About Mirrorless Interchangeable-Lens Cameras?

This is a question that just about every photographer must ask in 2017, and it’s getting tougher to answer with impressive mirrorless releases like the new Sony Alpha a6500. There is no doubt that mirrorless cameras have made inroads on the DSLR market—they forego the bulky internal mirror system for an all-digital design that is more compact. The lens options still are more limited than DSLRs but are expanding, and Sony has released a very attractive line of full-frame mirrorless cameras, including the powerhouse a7R II.

DSLRs have the most extensive selection of lenses and decades of experience to back it up. Mirrorless cameras are more compact but the cost savings is debatable, particularly when you add in lenses (all things considered, they could be more expensive than DSLRs). For personal and business use, we use both types of cameras. If you’re a top landscape professional looking to shave ounces, Sony’s a7 series is a great option. For most people, and particularly those on a budget, DSLRs still are an excellent choice.

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