Best cameras 2018

We’ve reviewed a variety of new cameras over the last year – here are the four top models that really stood out…

There’s been something of a quiet revolution this year. The sound of flapping mirrors has receded to such an extent that there isn’t a single new DSLR among our four favourite cameras. Indeed, we’ve only reviewed two new DSLRs during the whole of the last 12 months. Meanwhile, mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras (ILCs) have been going from strength to strength, with exciting new models to suit wide-ranging needs and budgets. Indeed, every single camera in our top four is an ILC or so-called CSC (Compact System Camera). It’s certainly a first for us, and reflects a fundamental shift in the camera market.

While all of our top cameras are compact system models, some are rather more compact than others. The same is true of the image sensors that lie at the heart of these cameras, which range from the relatively small sensor of the Micro Four Thirds format Panasonic, through the larger APS-C sensor of the Fujifilm, right up to the full-frame sensors of the Nikon and Sony cameras. Nikon has finally gate-crashed Sony’s fullframe mirrorless party, with Canon following hot on its heels. You’ll find a standalone review of the new Canon EOS R in this issue, but the Nikon Z 7 wins out for wow-factor.

So, without further ado, let’s take a step back and revisit the four most exciting camera launches of the year. Compared with the rest of the pack, we can remind ourselves of what separates the great from the good.