travel rangefinder camera

7 Best Rangefinder Cameras in 2024: Pros & Cons

By Tati Taylor 16 days ago, Cameras & Lenses

Popular rangefinder cameras with great quality and value.

As a photographer myself, I believe that rangefinder cameras are an essential tool for any photographer who wants to capture the perfect shot.

Rangefinders are small and lightweight cameras that use a rangefinder to determine the distance from the lens to the object. They were popular before DSLR and mirrorless cameras took over and they’re still popular with a lot of photographers today.

Top 7 Rangefinder Cameras to Buy

• Leica M11 - The best rangefinder camera
• Sony Alpha 7C - Fast autofocus
• Fujifilm X100V - Weather-resistant
• Leica 10371 M-A - Helpful for handheld shooting
• Mamiya 7 II - Easy setup
• Fujifilm X Pro3 - Timeless body design
• Leica M10-R - Intuitive physical controls

Rangefinder cameras from this list are durable and can be used in rough environments. They are ideal for landscape photography because they can see through fog and rain, making them an excellent choice for outdoor photographers.

1. Leica M11 – Our Choice

Type : Compact | Megapixels : 26.1MP | Max continuous shooting speed : 20 fps

• ✚ Combines classic Leica M aesthetic with modern features
• ✚ Manual settings for shutter speed
• ✚ Excellent quality in various lighting conditions
• ✚ Ergonomic controls and durable lightweight body
• — Expensive price point

Leica M11 is a great camera for photography , with a classic design that combines the latest digital technology. It's available in both silver chrome and black models, and both look absolutely stunning. The camera is also lightweight, making it easy to carry around.

Photo taken with Leica M11

One of the main characteristics of the M11 is its sensor and lens combination, which produces high-quality images with a wide dynamic range. The M11 also features a new IR filter that captures more light in the corners than previous models, enabling it to offer a wide range of sensitivity and dynamic range in low light conditions.

Another great feature of this rangefinder camera is the Triple Resolution Technology, which allows you to choose between three different resolutions and produces more detailed and realistic images with higher contrast.

2. Sony Alpha 7C

Type : Mirrorless | Megapixels : 24.2MP | Max continuous shooting speed : 10 fps

• ✚ Small and lightweight
• ✚ Excellent image quality
• ✚ Vari-angle LCD for easy video monitoring
• ✚ Dedicated exposure compensation dial
• — Limited processing power compared to high-end models
• — Price may still be a barrier for some users

The Alpha 7C is designed with the user in mind and aims to offer convenience at every stage of shooting. This Sony camera has a large touch-sensitive LCD monitor for intuitive touch focus, tracking, and shutter operations.

Photo taken with Sony Alpha 7C

Image quality is outstanding, especially considering the size of the camera's sensor and the limited processing power it needs to achieve results. The Sony A7C produced images of exceptional quality during my review period, delivering crisp and clear image quality at all ISO settings tested in both JPEG and RAW formats.

But with this full frame rangefinder camera, you can only take around 680 shots per charge. This is something you need to keep in mind if you're planning to do a lot of shooting.

3. Fujifilm X100V

Type : Compact | Megapixels : 26.1MP | Max continuous shooting speed : 10 fps

• ✚ Wide range of features and controls
• ✚ Wide dynamic range
• ✚ Fast and accurate autofocus system
• ✚ Advanced hybrid viewfinder
• — Limited recording time for video
• — Delete button is difficult to reach without shifting hand
• — Fixed 23mm focal length

One of the biggest advantages of this Fuji camera is its optical viewfinder, which is one of the best I've ever used. In fact, it can stay on par with the best rangefinder binoculars . It's got a rangefinder-style body design, and the upgraded 3.69m-dot OLED EVF makes for improved viewing. And when you want to work in the same style you're used to, you can flick it away to reveal a clear 0.52x-magnification optical viewfinder.

Photo taken with Fujifilm X100V

Being one of the best digital rangefinder cameras, the X100V also has a host of other features to keep you connected, such as Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, making it easy to wirelessly transfer images from the camera to your smartphone or tablet. It's also weather-resistant, which makes it ideal for outdoor use.

However, there are some drawbacks to the X100V. For instance, the buffer is shallow, which limits bursts to 1.5s of JPEGs and less than a second of RAW files. Also, the Delete button is situated too close to the viewfinder, making it impossible to reach without shifting your hand.

4. Leica 10371 M-A

Type : Compact | Megapixels : 40.1MP | Max continuous shooting speed : 3 fps

• ✚ Bright 0.72x-magnification viewfinder
• ✚ Completely mechanical operation
• ✚ Full exposure control
• ✚ Compact and lightweight
• — May require significant effort to focus accurately
• — May be difficult to focus in low light conditions
• — Expensive compared to other cameras

As one of the best Leica cameras , it is completely mechanical, meaning it requires no battery for operation, which is a big plus in my book. It offers full exposure control with a shutter speed of up to 1/1000 sec, which is great for fast-paced events and portraits. The camera's compact, lightweight design makes it easy to carry around and shoot handheld.

Photo taken with Leica 10371 M-A

This rangefinder camera has been designed to be timeless. Many of its components were used in the very first M cameras, exactly as they are today. No changes have been made to its mechanical way of working in the past 60 years, and there won't be any reason to do so in the coming 60 years either.

One problem you may encounter when using this camera is focusing on low light. To solve this issue, you can purchase a magnifier for your rangefinder camera or seek help from a professional rangefinder camera specialist.

5. Mamiya 7 II

Type : Film | Megapixels : 25.2MP | Max continuous shooting speed : 10 fps

• ✚ Interchangeable leaf shutter lenses
• ✚ Large and bright frame viewfinder
• ✚ Automatic parallax compensation
• ✚ Multiple exposure function and self-timer
• — Parallax error
• — Spot based meter issues
• — Polarizer filter not ideal for capturing bright sunlight

First, the Mamiya 7 II is a 6x7cm rangefinder camera with interchangeable leaf shutter lenses. This makes it a great choice for quick and accurate focusing in low light situations. The viewfinder is bright and precise, and the camera is built to last.

Photo taken with Mamiya 7 II

As for advantages, the Mamiya 7 II is renowned for its excellent image quality. It's a favorite among landscape photographers , and for good reason. The camera's lenses are all leaf shutter, and they are compatible with other film and digital cameras.

One issue is that it suffers from parallax, which can be compensated for in the viewfinder, but can still be a bit of a hassle. Also, the spot based meter can be difficult to compensate for when using filters, so it's important to have the right equipment and technique to get the best results.

6. Fujifilm X Pro3

Type : Mirrorless | Megapixels : 26.1MP | Max continuous shooting speed : 20 fps

• ✚ Easy to capture fast-moving objects
• ✚ Includes several hybrid modes
• ✚ More control over images
• ✚ Weather-sealed and available in different colors
• — LCD screen difficult to read at certain angles
• — Not a substitute for DSLR in terms of functionality and capability

The X Pro3 is a lot of fun to use, making it an ideal choice for someone who's looking for an easy-to-use but capable good rangefinder camera that doesn't need to be accompanied by expensive gear. It's perfect for street photographers who want to avoid using flash or other studio equipment.

The e-rangefinder function is a big improvement over the X-Pro 2's optical viewfinder, allowing you to see the actual focal length you're going to be capturing with your lens in real time. This is an excellent feature for identifying subjects in a crowd and adjusting your f-stop without having to look through your rear viewfinder.

Photo taken with Fujifilm X Pro3

However, there are some disadvantages to this camera as well. The E-Ink display on the back can be difficult to read at certain angles, which is a shame. But the camera's main display is visible when you flip down the rear panel, and a small sub-monitor on the back of the E-Ink allows you to review and navigate settings.

7. Leica M10-R

Type : Compact | Megapixels : 40.1MP | Max continuous shooting speed : 16 fps

• ✚ Exceptional image quality
• ✚ Access to Leica's legendary lens collection
• ✚ Large screen
• ✚ Wide sensitivity range of ISO
• — Limited video capabilities
• — No built-in image stabilization
• — Too expensive

One of the main advantages of the M10-R as rangefinder camera is its high-resolution sensor, which delivers exceptional image quality with extended dynamic range and high sensitivity to ISO 50000. This means that you can capture sharp details and vivid colors on print-ready RAW files, making it a great choice for portrait photography .

Photo taken with Leica M10-R

Another benefit of the M10-R is its compatibility with a wide range of lenses. This is thanks to its redesigned sensor, which has been developed specifically for use with M-mount lenses.

However, there are a few downsides to the M10-R that should be mentioned. One of the main issues is the price, which is quite steep. Additionally, the camera can feel unwieldy in your hands, and it may be uncomfortable to carry for long periods without a neck strap.

How to Choose the Best Rangefinder Camera?

As an experienced photographer, I can tell you that there are a few key characteristics that you should consider when choosing the best rangefinder camera.

Ease of focusing . These cameras have a more precise optical viewfinder than modern DSLR cameras for videos and photos, which makes focusing much easier. Look for a coupled rangefinder, which has the focusing ring and distance ring linked together, for added convenience.

Accuracy is key . Modern rangefinder cameras use triangulation to measure the distance to a subject and convert that value into a lens focus value. This results in a split-image displayed in the viewfinder, indicating which of the two images is aimed at the subject.

Make sure to check your depth of field with a depth of field calculator before pressing the shutter button.

Durability . The best rangefinder cameras are made to last for a long time, with tough parts designed to withstand many different environments.

Size . Such cameras are typically smaller and lighter than SLRs from different camera brands . They don't have prisms, focus screens, or flipping reflex mirrors, which means they are more portable and less prone to vibrations that blur hand-held shots.

Convenience . A good rangefinder camera is typically very light and small, making it easy to carry around when you're on the go. Plus, the automatic exposure feature can save you time and hassle in adjusting settings each time you take a shot.

• • What is a rangefinder camera, and how does it work?

A rangefinder camera shows two images of the same subject, which change when you move the focus ring on the lens. When the two images overlap and merge into one, you get a pin-sharp image of your subject.

• • Why are rangefinder cameras better than SLR cameras?

These have higher image quality and more precise focusing for wide and normal lenses. They are also quieter and more compact, making them great for urban photography and photojournalism.

• • Why are rangefinder cameras so expensive?

There aren't many brands and models of good rangefinder cameras, which means prices are high due to supply and demand. Manufacturers are not simply overpricing their cameras, but rather, they are dependent on a supply and demand market.

• • What brands make high-quality rangefinder cameras?

Leica is widely regarded as a top brand for high-quality rangefinder cameras, known for their precision engineering and exceptional optical performance. Additionally, Fujifilm also offers excellent rangefinder cameras with a blend of modern technology and classic design, delivering outstanding image quality.

• • How does the rangefinder focusing mechanism work?

The rangefinder focusing mechanism consists of two separate optical paths that converge on the viewfinder. When the photographer adjusts the focusing ring on the lens, it shifts the image seen in the viewfinder.

As the two images align, the focus is achieved. This method allows for precise manual focusing, especially in situations where autofocus may struggle, such as low-light conditions or with subjects lacking contrast.

• • What are some iconic rangefinder cameras throughout history?

The Leica M series is widely recognized as one of the most iconic and influential rangefinder camera lines in history, with models like the Leica M3, M6, and M10 garnering immense praise from photographers. Another notable rangefinder camera is the Contax G1/G2 series, which offered autofocus capabilities and high-quality optics, earning a dedicated following among enthusiasts.

• Popular rangefinder cameras
• Sony Alpha 7C
• Fujifilm X100V
• Leica 10371 M-A
• Mamiya 7 II
• Fujifilm X Pro3
• Leica M10-R
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Scott Gilbertson

Review: Sony A7C R Full Frame Camera

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Sony is no stranger to producing impressively small full-frame cameras. The original A7C took the innards of the larger A7 series and stuffed them in a more compact body. The ZV-E1 went further, with a tiny body that looks positively comical attached to long lenses.

These smaller bodies always involve feature compromises. No one wants a heavy camera, but some features mean physical limitations. While the sensors may be the same, the viewfinders are smaller, and other features were sometimes absent.

Enter the new Sony A7C R. In my experience testing it for several weeks in North Carolina's Outer Banks, it comes closest to providing everything you need in a camera and nothing you don't. The impressively small body is nevertheless comfortable to hold and carry around all day, and has most of the features even a pro would want.

Two years ago, I tested the original Sony A7C and found that while the compact, rangefinder-style body was perfect for traveling, the viewfinder was too small and the 24.2-MP sensor was a step back from the 40-MP sensor in my Sony A7RII. It was tantalizingly close to everything I wanted, but not quite there.

The A7C R solves at least the sensor problem, and gets much closer to the ideal travel camera. It's still plenty small at 4.9 inches wide, 2.8 inches tall, and 2.5 inches deep. It weighs just under a pound at 15.2 ounces (430 grams) for the body. With the FE 28-60mm F4-5.6 lens Sony sent along for testing, the total weight came to 21.1 ounces.

The 61-MP CMOS sensor in the new A7C R is the same sensor you'll find in Sony's A7R V, released a few months before the A7C R. It's one of the best sensors I've tested, capable of excellent detail, with great dynamic range. The low-light performance is impressive as well, with very little noise even well up into the five-digit ISO options (the A7C R can shoot all the way up to ISO 102,400, but as you would expect, those images are very noisy).

There's nothing about this sensor that I can think to complain about. It's fantastic. The resulting RAW files are large—around 65 MB per image in my testing, with low light images being the largest. You can get this down to around 45 MB per image if you opt for compressed RAW, but at the time I was testing, no software could open these files (Lightroom and others have since added support).

Along with the impressive sensor comes the same processing engine you'll find in the A7R V. It has improved subject detection, including human body, face, and eye detection, along with body and eye detection for animals and general recognition of insects, vehicles, and aircraft. While all that is useful for photography, where the camera really shines is in video. The A7C R very rarely missed focus in video, and along with the A7R V, offers some of the best video autofocus currently on the market.

While there are some similarities to the A7R V, they're not the same camera by any means. The A7C R isn't nearly as capable at video. The A7C R can shoot up to 4K/60p with a roughly 1.2x crop, but that's as high as the resolution gets. That's pretty good for such a compact body, but it will be noisier footage than you'd get from the oversampled footage of Sony's larger cameras, like the A7R V and A9.

If you are looking for primarily a video camera, you're better off with the A7R V. The size trade-off isn't worth losing the sharper, higher-quality oversampled video that camera offers. If, however, you're primarily wanting to shoot still images, but have solid video capabilities should you need them, the A7C R will get the job done.

My main gripe about the original A7C was the tiny electronic viewfinder (EVF). On this score, the A7C R delivers only a modest improvement. It's better than its predecessor, which was virtually unusable for me, but it's still cramped and low-resolution (2.36M dots) relative to its competition, both within the Sony lineup and the larger camera market.

The good news is that the brightness has been cranked up, and what you see is clearer than it was in the original, with a slightly higher 0.7x magnification. It's a step up from the original's 0.59x magnification, but I find even the A7C R's viewfinder too small to be comfortable. It works—I can compose well enough—but it's not a joy to use by any means. This is part of the trade-off that comes with size, and to be fair, there isn't anything better out there for this size camera.

The rest of the body is well thought out. The camera is comfortable to hold and operate with one hand. I found it very easy to use, and the camera never got in my way when I was shooting. The hand grip matches roughly what you get with the rest of Sony's full frame Alpha 7 cameras. There's a mode dial on top, making it simple to move between Manual, Shutter-Priority, Aperture-Priority, and Program modes, and it comes with three programmable presets. I found I could adjust this dial easily with either forefinger or thumb, but it remains stiff enough that it never changed in my bag. There's a dedicated video record button just back from the shutter button and switch that moves between video and still modes.

The rest of the button set is on the back of the body and offers everything you'd expect in the modern mirrorless camera. There's an impressive amount of customization available too, so you can set up the buttons pretty much as you want them. There's no AF joystick-type controller like you'll find on some cameras, but you can use the rear touchscreen or directional pad to accomplish the same thing. The rear screen is fully articulating, meaning you can position it just about anywhere, including my favorite position: off, with the screen facing inward.

Battery life is great. Sony claims 470 images using the LCD, and 520 if you stick to the EVF. I found the EVF claim to be accurate; I did not shoot with the LCD enough to test that aspect. Pros will not like that there's only one SD card slot, but I've yet to have an issue with just one card (pardon me while I knock on wood). The A7C R supports a UHS-II SD card, which you'll need to handle the 4K/60p video.

The Sony A7C R is well balanced with the FE 28-60mm F4-5.6 lens Sony provided. I also shot extensively with my own lenses—mostly legacy Nikon glass—which worked great with an adapter.

I spent two weeks testing the A7C R and found it very capable. There's something a little uninspiring about the design, but that's true of all of Sony's cameras. They're like Lenovo laptops. No one buys them because they're cutting-edge; they buy them because they're great devices that have the good sense to get out of your way and let you do what you want to do.

If you want a lightweight kit and don't need the absolute top-of-the-line features that only pro photographers really need, the Sony A7C R is a fantastic camera. The viewfinder isn't the best—I'd suggest trying it out in person at your local camera shop to see what you think of it before you invest—but if you can get past that, this is an impressive camera in an impressively tiny package.

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Rangefinder Camera Guide: Buying, Using & FAQs

Thinking of buying a rangefinder camera? Wondering why to use one instead of a DSLR? This guider to rangefinder cameras answers all the common questions.

Camera Gear Guides | Camera Guides | By Ana Mireles

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Rangefinder cameras were popular in the 1950s due to their size, build quality and affordability.

They use a dual-image range-finding focusing mechanism that lets the photographer measure the distance to the subject in order to focus on it.

You twist a ring on the lens to align two superimposed images – when they align, your subject is in focus.

In contrast to an SLR camera, you never look through the lens of a rangefinder camera. Instead, you focus and compose through a small window, like with an instant camera .

There’s often an additional small window on a rangefinder camera that collects light to increase the brightness of the frame lines.

You can also get digital rangefinder cameras that operate in exactly the same way as their analogue counterparts.

In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about buying and using rangefinder cameras in 2024.

Table of Contents

How to Buy a Rangefinder Camera in 2024

If you want to buy a brand new rangefinder digital camera, there aren’t many choices on the market. Most of the ones still in production belong to the Leica M-series, which, although expensive, are excellent cameras that can last a lifetime.

If this is your first rangefinder camera, you might want to consider buying second hand. There are multiple choices, both digital and film – check KEH Cameras for some great prices on used rangefinder cameras and lenses.

The rangefinder mechanism is not hard to use, but it takes some time to adjust, and it might not be for everyone. Since rangefinder cameras can be pretty expensive, you might want to hold off on the more significant investment until you’ve tried one for yourself.

If you buy a camera with interchangeable lenses , make sure other focal lengths are also easy to find on the market. Keep in mind that rangefinder lenses can also be quite expensive.

There are adaptors to use SLR lenses on a rangefinder, but they are not available for all brands. Also, you can consider cameras with fixed lenses – this will be more affordable but somewhat limiting because you’ll only have one focal length .

You’ll also need to do a thorough lens test to make sure everything works as it should.

If you’re buying an older model, make sure the rangefinder is calibrated because they need this as part of their maintenance as time passes.

Finally, see if the camera has a coupled rangefinder or not. Of course, you’re free to choose whichever you prefer – but you should be aware of it before making the decision.

With a coupled rangefinder, the focusing ring and the distance ring are linked together – this system is more comfortable to use, and most newer cameras have it.

How much does a rangefinder cost?

As with any other type of camera , you can find choices ranging from $5 to thousands of dollars. The best digital rangefinder cameras would naturally cost a bit higher than other models.

To narrow down the price range, you first need to decide whether you want a digital or a film camera .

Keep in mind that film rangefinders aren’t necessarily second-hand – there are some models still in production. This brings us to the next question you need to ask yourself – do you want a new rangefinder, or are you OK with a used one?

There aren’t many rangefinder cameras in production these days. So, if you want a new rangefinder camera – you’d better be prepared to be hit with a high price tag. Leica is one of the most expensive camera brands , after all.

If you want a new digital rangefinder camera, the Leica M10-R costs around $9.000. The Leica 10947 M (Type 262) is a more affordable one that costs about $6.000.

If you’re looking for new rangefinder film cameras, there’s the Leica M-A (Typ 127) for a bit more than $5.000. Also, check out the Leica MP 0.72 for a similar price tag.

Keep in mind that these are interchangeable lens rangefinder cameras, so you’ll have to add the cost of the lens. For example, Zeiss lenses with M-mount (compatible with the cameras I just mentioned) range from $1.000 to $6.000 depending on the focal length and aperture.

Fortunately, there are many more choices if you’re willing to buy second-hand from a retailer like KEH Cameras . Unless you’re looking for a particular collector’s model like the Epson R-D1, which was the first digital rangefinder camera – you can lower your budget quite a bit.

Recently discontinued models that were expensive as new will still cost a couple of thousand. However, you’ll also find some excellent cameras for a few hundred dollars – or some more basic, vintage ones for even less.

• Related: Rangefinders vs. SLR Cameras: Which Is Better?

Why are rangefinder cameras so expensive?

Since there aren’t many brands and/or models of rangefinder cameras, their prices are high.

When there’s no competition, prices tend to rise. That’s not to say that the manufacturers are simply overpricing their rangefinder cameras. They are merely dependant on a supply and demand market.

If there aren’t many rangefinders on offer is also because there isn’t enough demand. Then, the production of these cameras can’t benefit from the mass production and its corresponding decrease in cost.

We can’t also disregard the fact that they are very well made – and quality comes with a price.

Are rangefinder cameras worth it?

Whether a rangefinder is worth it depends on your style and the type of photography you do. If you do street photography , you’ll probably find it worth it – if you do still life photography, maybe not.

So, it’s impossible to answer this question with a simple yes or no. Instead, I’ll tell you some pros and cons.

This way, you can decide if getting a rangefinder makes more sense to you than getting a single-lens reflex (SLR).

Pros of Rangefinder Cameras

• You can see things outside the frame . This is very useful when you’re photographing moving subjects or when you need to capture a precise moment of action because you can see the subject approach.
• You don’t have a blackout on the viewfinder when you press the shutter . Since there’s no mirror flipping up, the image is still there when you’re exposing the film or sensor.
• It’s easier to focus with low light . Rangefinders have very bright viewfinders – this makes it easier for you to focus in darker situations . Even if you can’t see very well, you can always use the range focusing method.
• Precise focusing . You’ll get sharper images every time with rangefinders because of the focusing method.
• Compact form and lightweight . The lack of the reflex system allows the rangefinders to be very small, making them great for street photographers as they are much less intrusive.

Cons of Rangefinder Cameras

• Most rangefinder lenses are primes – it’s rare to find zoom lenses for a rangefinder camera. This isn’t necessarily a downside for every photographer – but it’s still worth mentioning.
• You never see through the lens , so you don’t get to see how the final image will look like before you press the shutter button.
• Most of them don’t have a built-in flash . However, they do have a hot shoe to use an external flash.
• Fewer features . This isn’t necessarily a bad thing, but you might miss some of the bells and whistles of modern SLRs, DSLRs or mirrorless.

Are expensive rangefinders worth it?

Considering that all rangefinder cameras are expensive and whether or not this is worth it for you – there are some more expensive than others.

If you choose a model that sits on the top of the price range, you’ll probably be gaining some features that you won’t have with less expensive models.

For example, the Leica M10-P and subsequently the M10-R have an LCD screen on the back. You can use the LCD for shooting in Live View or reviewing your images.

Also, the more expensive the camera, the more resolution it has. For example, the M10-P camera has a 24MP sensor, while an M10-R has a 40MP sensor.

Finally, unless you’re buying a rare vintage model, the more expensive cameras mean that they are newer cameras. Of course, a new camera is also more costly.

The ‘age’ is important because it’s generally easier to find lenses and accessories. Also, because the rangefinder needs to be calibrated after some time.

7 Recommended Rangefinder Cameras

• Leica M10-R – it’s one of the only ones still in production, and it carries a 40MP sensor. Arguably the best rangefinder camera according to its many fans.
• Fujifilm GF670 – it’s a dual medium format foldable camera. It has an aperture-priority auto-exposure feature if you don’t want to go full manual and up to 3200 ISO. The lens is an 80mm f/3.5.
• Leica M3 – it was the first Leica to introduce the rangefinder and the viewfinder in one window. It’s also the main camera used by Henry Cartier Bresson, which allowed him to capture the ‘decisive moment’. It’s also been used by many other professional photographers throughout history.
• Contax II – any of the Contax cameras are a great choice. However, this was the first-ever model to combine rangefinder and viewfinder in one window.
• Olympus 35 RC – this is an excellent rangefinder for you to experiment with without spending too much money. Just by giving a quick look through eBay, I found some bidding starting at $35.00 – that’s including the lens.
• Canon 7 – it’s a fast, high-quality rangefinder that became a nitch camera at the time when SLRs were gaining ground. It has two switchable built-in meters.
• Contax G2 – this is the only or one of the only rangefinders with autofocus. It also has autoexposure, autoloading, and TTL metering. It’s also important that some fantastic lenses are available for this camera.

How to Shoot a Rangefinder Camera

If you’re wondering if rangefinder cameras are hard to use, the answer is no. However, they are different – so, if you’re used to SLR cameras, you might find it hard to get used to them.

On the other hand, they have much fewer buttons, menus and auto features. This allows you to focus only on the image and the exposure, and they are easier to handle once you’re used to them.

To learn how to shoot with rangefinder cameras, you need to get used to two things: composing and focusing. That’s because the exposure part is essentially the same as with any other type of camera.

When you put your eye on the viewfinder of a rangefinder, you won’t see through the lens. So you’ll see the field of view through a window that sits on the top left of the camera.

Inside the field of view, you’ll have lines showing where your frame ends, depending on the lens attached to your camera.

In any case, you get to see what’s happening outside the frame – unlike SRL cameras that block everything outside the edges. This characteristic makes it perfect for capturing moving subjects because you can see when they are about to come into your composition.

OK, so that’s what you see through the viewfinder, but how do you focus on an rf camera? You’ll see a patch on top of the scene through the viewfinder. So you’ll have two images that you have to line up perfectly until you see only one image – that’s when the subject is in focus.

Another way to focus with rangefinders is to use the range focusing method . You can do this without even looking through the viewfinder – you just have to use the numbers on the lens.

On rangefinder lenses, you have an aperture ring. Just turn the ring to choose the aperture that you want.

Then, there’s the distance ring or distance scale – this is used to focus the lens. You adjust how far or close the focal point is when you turn it. On the left side, you’ll have the closest focusing distance; on the right side, you’ll have the longest one up to infinity.

You’ll notice that the distance ring has connecting lines to another set of numbers on the base of the lens – that’s to show you the depth of field.

So, depending on the aperture that you chose, follow the corresponding lines to the focusing ring and you’ll see where does the depth of field starts and ends.

For example, with a 35mm lens – if you set the focal point to 5 meters and use an aperture of f/8, everything between 2,5 meters and infinity will be in focus.

Once your subject is composed and focused, you can use the light meter to determine the exposure and take the photo.

Rangefinder FAQs

What is a rangefinder camera used for.

While you can use a rangefinder camera for any type of photography, they are mainly used for street photography and photojournalism. This is because rangefinders are smaller and quieter than DSLR and SLR cameras. Also because using the range focusing method you don’t have to worry about missing the focus on a moving subject.

They’re also used for sports photography because there’s no blackout when you press the shutter. This is because there isn’t a flipping mirror. Also, you can see the action outside your frame so that you can press the shutter at the right time, and you can use range focusing to have tack-sharp subjects.

How does a rangefinder work?

Rangefinders have two windows, each one of which creates an image. The window on the side is the viewfinder where you compose your scene. The window on top of the lens collects the light and bounces it with a mirror, creating a second image. You can move this second image with the focusing ring until both images match perfectly – that’s when you can take the shot.

For the rest, it works like any other camera. There’s an aperture that controls how much light comes in and a shutter speed that covers and exposes the film or the sensor.

Why is it called a rangefinder camera?

The name is quite literal. They are called this way because they have a rangefinder – this allows you to measure the distance to your subject and focus on it.

What is the difference between a rangefinder and a viewfinder?

A viewfinder is the part of the camera where you can see your subject to compose and focus your image. Both rangefinders and SLR cameras have a viewfinder, but the rangefinder’s viewfinder doesn’t show you precisely what the lens is seeing.

On the other hand, a rangefinder is a device that measures the distance between the image plane and the subject to achieve focus. This device is not found in other cameras.

What is the difference between an SLR and a rangefinder camera?

The main characteristic of an SLR (and a DSLR, for that matter) is the reflex system. This consists of a flipping mirror that bounces the light towards a pentaprism which then sends it to the viewfinder.

Rangefinder cameras don’t have this mirror, which means that you won’t see through the lens with the rangefinder viewfinders.

Another difference related to it is the size and weight. Since there’s no mirror inside, the rangefinders are more compact, weigh less, and are quieter.

Also, with an SLR camera is difficult to achieve focus in low light. There’s more light available in the viewfinder on a rangefinder, or you can use range focusing.

However, rangefinders are mechanical or almost fully mechanical. Instead, an SLR will give you more automatic shooting features, auto-focusing, video recording, etc.

Final Words

I know there’s a lot of information in this article, and it might look like it’s difficult to use rangefinder cameras. However, they are actually very straightforward.

The most challenging part about using rangefinder cameras is the fact that we need to change the way we approach photography.

Hopefully, this article cleared your doubts, and you can give rangefinders a chance! Let us know about your experiences in the comments – we’d love to hear from you.

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Ana Mireles is a Mexican researcher that specializes in photography and communications for the arts and culture sector.

Thanks for reading my article – let me know if you have any questions.

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The 10 Best Travel Cameras to Capture All Your Adventures

The top models you should pack in your suitcase, from dslrs to drones., kristin tablang, kristin tablang's most recent stories, the 10 best floating shelves for showcasing books, spices, and everything in between.

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Every so often, I’ll get the urge to update my kit—whether it’s by adding a new accessory or upgrading my primary model altogether. And over the years, I’ve learned a thing or two about shopping for a camera, particularly one meant for travel. There are tons of technical words that get thrown around, from “aperture” (measured in fractions, it’s the opening in a lens through which light passes) and “f-stops” (the lower the number, the shallower the depth of field) to all the different sensor types (rule of thumb: the bigger the sensor, the better the image quality) and “ISO sensitivity” (the higher the number, the greater a camera’s ability to capture light). But I won’t bore you with all that. Instead, I’ve outlined the key questions you should ask yourself before you begin seriously shopping for a travel camera, starting with: Who are you when you travel?

What to Consider Before Buying the Best Travel Camera:

Personality : Are you a foodie who snaps a photo of every meal (like me), or a nature lover who loves to birdwatch (and needs a camera with a fast shutter speed to catch fledglings in action)? Vloggers will likely care a lot about a camera’s video-recording capabilities, while adrenaline junkies always on the go might prefer simpler models that are quick to react, even if they tend to generate lower-quality images. Make sure your camera well aligns with your travel persona, whatever it may be. 

Durability: How tough does your camera need to be? What are the odds it will get scratched, crushed, or dropped? Most cameras aren’t made to withstand much, but there are some built to survive inclement weather and severe conditions. Depending on your intended use (and how careful you are in general with your stuff), pick a model that suits your habits and needs.

Dimensions: How much do you want to carry? Travel cameras are often described as “lightweight” and “compact,” but those terms can be pretty subjective. Seasoned landscape photographers who are used to toting around multiple lenses, filters, and other accessories might consider a two-pound build as “portable,” while concertgoers who tend to pack super light would probably imagine something more pocket size. Before you buy a camera, make sure you have a solid idea how it’ll look and feel in hand. Product photos online can be deceiving, so it’s best if you try it out in store to guarantee it’s a good fit. And don’t forget to take into account any add-ons (such as batteries and external flashes), which will increase a camera’s overall size and weight.

Best Overall Travel Camera

Sony cybershot rx100 vii camera.

I love my DSLR—but sometimes, it’s too bulky to take everywhere. In that case, I turn to this powerful little guy. If you’re looking for a lightweight pocket camera with all the essentials (and more), this sleek compact model is for you. Great for live performances and events (and for taking food pics!), the ultra-portable device effortlessly produces high-quality photos and videos. Fitted with a touchscreen that rotates 180 degrees (making it perfect for selfies), the user-friendly camera is easy to operate with one hand—so you’ll never have to put down your drink to capture a moment. 

Type: Compact. Dimensions: 4 x 1.7 x 2.3 inches. Weight: 10.65 ounces. Sensor: 1-inch, 20.1 megapixels. Lens: 24-200 millimeter F2.8-4.5 lens. Display: 3-inch LCD display, 2,360k dots.

Buy Now on Best Buy: $1,300

Best Travel Camera for Still Photography

Fujifilm x-t5 camera.

Whether you enjoy shooting portraits, wildlife, or streetscapes, this marvelous mirrorless camera—which comes with a weatherproof lens that ranges from wide-angle to medium-telephoto—is a valuable one to have in your photography arsenal. Lighter than its predecessor, the ergonomic model, whose in-body image stabilization system aptly minimizes shaking, produces outstanding JPEGs with incredible detail and less noise than its competitors. 

Type: Compact. Dimensions: 14.3 x 2.8 x 9.9 inches (unfolded). Weight: 8.8 ounces. Sensor: APS-C CMOS, 40.2 megapixels. Lens: 16-80 millimeter f/4-22 lens. Display: 3-inch touchscreen LCD display, 1,840k dots.

Buy Now on B&H Photo: $2,199

Best Rugged Travel Camera

Olympus om system tough tg-7 camera.

The best handheld for hard-core adventurers, this ultra-durable, featherweight camera can weather all the elements. Featuring anti-fog and impermeable to dust and water (up to 50 feet deep), the newly updated model can sustain getting crushed by a 220-pound force, survive a seven-foot drop, and won’t stop working in the cold—so you can truly take it anywhere. To boot, the point-and-shoot has five underwater modes and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth—not to mention 4K video for high-speed recordings. 

Type: Compact. Dimensions: 4.48 x 2.59 x 1.28 inches. Weight: 8.78 ounces. Sensor: 1/1.3-inch, 12 megapixels. Lens: 25-100 millimeter f/2-4.9 lens. Display: 3-inch LCD display, 1,040k dots.

Buy Now on Amazon: $550

Best Travel Camera for Landscape Photographers

Nikon d780 dslr camera.

Capture high-resolution stills and full-HD videos with this versatile camera (my must-have on scenic trips). The popular model features excellent subject tracking and an impressive battery life—plus, it works extremely well in low light. Built-in Wifi and Bluetooth allow you to instantaneously transfer files to your drive on the go, and dual SD card slots guarantee you’ll never run out of memory while snapping photos in the wild. 

Buy Now on B&H Photo: $2,797

Best Rangefinder Travel Camera 

Leica m10-r camera.

Known for meticulously crafting products using precision engineering (by hand ), Leica has well earned its reputation for delivering high-quality cameras around the globe. The German brand’s M10-R is the paragon of a modern-day rangefinder, offering razor-sharp focus and unparalleled image quality. The quiet operator has an extended shutter speed range that allows you to make exposures up to 16 minutes long at night and in low light. And the camera’s compact body is made from solid blocks of brass and magnesium alloy that’s rubber sealed to keep out dust and water, ensuring durability.

Type: Rangefinder. Dimensions: 5.5 x 1.5 x 3.1 inches. Weight: 23.28 ounces. Sensor: Full-frame CMOS, 40.89 megapixels. Lens: Not included. Display: 3-inch LCD display, 1,036k dots.

Buy Now on B&H Photo: $8,995

Best Instant Travel Camera

Mint camera slr670-s instant film camera.

There’s something extra fun about shooting with a vintage Polaroid. Mint Camera’s revamp of the classic SX-70 preserves its iconic folding design, though it comes with a few handy updates, including the ability to adjust exposure using a brightness control wheel. The external Time Machine module provides complete control over the camera’s shutter speeds, and an improved SLR viewfinder offers sharper manual focus. 

Type: Instant. Dimensions: 4.21 x 7.09 x 1.69 inches. Weight: 21.16 ounces. Sensor: N/A. Lens: 116 millimeter f/1.7 lens. Display: N/A.

Buy Now on B&H Photo: $879

Best Advanced Compact Travel Camera

Leica q2 camera.

More experienced shutterbugs will appreciate this intuitive device, equipped with an updated sensor design and image processor. The dynamic gadget boasts a magnesium alloy body that can withstand harsh conditions, an ultrabroad ISO sensitivity range (50–50,000), high-speed full-HD video recording, wireless sharing, and a touchscreen display that lets you focus on a subject with just a tap. 

Buy Now on B&H Photo: $5,198

Best Travel Camera for Night Photography

Pentax k-70 camera.

Sensor-shift image stabilization, a complex autofocus system, and fantastic interval shooting modes make this camera more than ideal for shooting in the dark. (Pentax’s Star Stream mode—which makes a movie out of stills by stacking them over time—is superb for capturing twinklers in the sky.) And the easy-to-grip camera boasts a weatherized body, making it impervious to water and highly resistant to the cold. 

Type: DSLR. Dimensions: 2.9 x 4.9 x 3.7 inches. Weight: 32 ounces. Sensor: APS-C CMOS, 24.24 megapixels. Lens: 55-135 millimeter f/3.5-22 lens. Display: 3-inch LCD display, 921k dots.

Buy Now on Amazon: $897

Best Drone Travel Camera

Dji mini 3 pro drone camera.

This mini drone is excellent for capturing breathtaking aerial scenes. The lightweight flyer fares well in the wind, and has a collision-avoidance feature that guarantees a smooth landing. The smart model also comes with an easy-to-use remote controller with an oversize screen, so you can always see what you’re shooting. 

Type: Drone. Dimensions: 14.3 x 2.8 x 9.9 inches (unfolded). Weight: 8.8 ounces. Sensor: 1/1.3-inch, 48 megapixels. Lens: 24 millimeter f/1.7 lens. Display: 5.5-inch LCD display, 2,037k dots.

Buy Now on B&H Photo: $909

Best Action Travel Camera

Gopro hero12 black camera.

For high-quality POV shots, there’s nothing better than a GoPro—and the brand’s latest Hero12 doesn’t disappoint. Waterproof up to 33 feet and equipped with a cold-resistant battery, the tiny-but-mighty machine touts a slew of cool features including Hindsight, which starts recording up to 30 seconds before you hit the shutter button—and Scheduled Capture, which will automatically switch on and snap a shot up to 24 hours in advance. The Max Lens Mod 2.0 add-on, which boasts an ultra-wide, 177-degree field of view that shoots in 4K60—is well worth the extra splurge.

Buy Now on GoPro: $400

​​Kristin Tablang is a writer and editor based in New York City, whose work has appeared in Forbes, Haute Living, and House Beautiful. An avid foodie and photographer, she'd travel the world with…

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Hands-on With the Pixii Rangefinder Camera With the Leica Mount

Rangefinder cameras are a long way from necessary, and yet, they are still popular, particularly because of Leica. What is it about rangefinders that makes them appealing and is this new Pixii camera a good example?

Some years back, I couldn't for the life of me understand who was buying rangefinder cameras or why. In the 1950s, they were the most popular bodies, but 60 years later I couldn't quite work out why people were still buying them, particularly new, digital bodies. There are advantages, though. For example, they're typically smaller and lighter bodies, allegedly better image quality, and some benefits to shooting where digital falls short, like low light. But, with these benefits, come a number of prohibitive downsides.

Firstly, you do not what you're shooting for sure until you see the final image. Secondly, in most rangefinder cameras, and this is true of the Pixii Rangefinder , there is no back screen to check that final image. Then, there are a whole host of difficulties with the shooting side and quality of life that DSLRS and mirrorless cameras do not encounter. Nevertheless, it's another example of you don't know you won't like it until you try it, and for me, I definitely like it.

I'm hoping to get my hands on the new Pixii rangefinder camera to give it a whirl. Are you interested in it?

Robert K Baggs is a professional portrait and commercial photographer, educator, and consultant from England. Robert has a First-Class degree in Philosophy and a Master's by Research. In 2015 Robert's work on plagiarism in photography was published as part of several universities' photography degree syllabuses.

sounds like a very expensive toy without any real demand other than camera writers who need new material

Agreed, if the lack of features somehow made it affordable that could be cool, but this is just another toy for hipsters.

I found the Pixii intriguing enough, and the reviews—especially on DearSusan and 35mmc—more than positive enough to order one. I discovered this year that I thoroughly enjoy rangefinder photography (and so does my in-college daughter), and so acquired a Leica. The Pixii gives me a second, significantly less expensive body, albeit APS-C, to work with. Add in its premise/promise of upgradeability, and I find this a lot more interesting than a “reviewer’s toy.”

• Feb 13, 2022

Leica CL: The perfect travel film rangefinder camera?

As mentioned in my previous post , I went to Jindabyne with some friends in the last week of 2021. Thanks to Covid, it was almost a year since my last trip to Byron Bay the year before and I was quite excited about it. Mount Kosciuszko being one of the destinations made it even more special. All this time I’ve only heard its name in one of Midnight Oils songs and finally I got to see it in person.

I spent quite a bit of time deciding on which camera to bring with me the night before the trip. Now, I never really had a “travel” camera, the choice used to be easy as I only had the Canon IV SB (which I finally sold early this year) and the Olympus XA2 (sold long ago) and they both easily fit in the bag. This time around the collection has grown a bit and makes the decision making process slightly more complex. I knew that I was going to bring a rangefinder with me as I wanted to shoot manual but at the same time wanted to have something with more automation for easy snap shots. I ended up bringing four cameras with me.

The Canon 7, Leica CL, Contax T3, and Panasonic LX5. Bringing four cameras is a bit excessive I know, but it was 2am, the decision making nervous system in my brain wasn’t working properly, and I needed to get some sleep. My thinking was to use the LX5 to cover random snapshots, night time photos, and as a backup in case I ran out of film rolls. Contax T3 came along because I still had an unfinished roll in it and I had to bring the Canon 7 because I just got a new LTM lens I wanted to test (will be a topic for another post). As you could probably tell from the title, the CL ended up being used the most. What is a Leica CL? Why did I buy not only one but two copies?

I will not go into the nitty gritty of the camera spec as you can find lots of reviews on this camera online. A lot of people like the camera and for a good reason. It’s a compact fully mechanical and manual M-Mount rangefinder camera with TTL metering. The compact form factor appeals to me more than anything else it offers. I initially bought the Leitz Minolta CL version from an Ebay bid and to my disappointment the camera which was mentioned as being in a good working and cosmetic condition came with a broken film spool. I still keep it in the hope that one day I can get a replacement spool for it. Having held one in my hands I am convinced that I actually like the camera and want a properly working one. I was instantly back on the hunt and got an almost mint copy Leitz Minolta CL with the native M-Rokkor 40mm f/2 lens from someone local. After shooting a roll with it I quickly decided that the 40mm focal length is not for me and I don’t need the built in meter. I always feel that whilst useful a light meter reading in a viewfinder distracts me. So when another copy of the CL with a broken light meter and “Leica” imprinted in lieu of the Leitz Minolta appeared on Ebay for a decent price I decided to buy it and eventually sold the other CL along with its lens.

I paired the CL with the Voigtlander Color Skopar 35mm f/2.5 lens most of the time and this is the same setup I used during the trip. While the CL only has frame lines for 40/50/90 I could comfortably use the whole space in the viewfinder to guess the 35mm framing. It may not be super accurate but this doesn’t bother me. One thing I noticed is that using an LTM to M-Mount adapter doesn’t seem to work well with this camera. I tried mounting some of my LTM lenses and the rangefinder coupling doesn’t work. Maybe my adapter is not the right one but it always works fine with my other M-Mount bodies hence my suspicion that the problem lies with the camera. If you’re thinking of getting the camera it’s worth reading in-depth reviews about the camera as it will reveal other things that might be relevant to you such as how not all m-mount lenses are compatible with the camera. For my personal use, none of that matters.

Revelation of a Gem

Despite being a great camera the Leica CL gets more time sitting on the shelf than my other cameras. This is due to it being a camera that somewhat fills the middle ground of what I need from a camera. I tend to opt for a small point and shoot for my day to day camera and when I want to shoot manually with a rangefinder I tend to go with bigger cameras like the M2 or Canon 7. The small viewfinder is a small compromise for its compact body but for me who wears glasses I always go for a bigger/brighter viewfinder when possible. At some stage I found it hard to justify keeping this camera due to its occasional use. To put it simply, it’s a great all-rounder camera and were I to sell all my point and shoots this will definitely be the camera to fill in the role of my everyday compact camera. This dilemma ended during the trip in Jindabyne as the camera revealed its true potential. I put a roll of expired Agfa Vista 200 and started snapping away on the way back from the top of Mount Kosciuszko. It is so light and compact that carrying it in your hand or wearing it around the neck doesn’t become a hindrance at all. Especially after carrying the Canon 7 all the way up the difference in size and weight was apparent. With the amount of light available I could set the aperture at f/16 and pretty much use the camera like a point and shoot! Except that I get full control over the settings and the rangefinder patch is there to assist a more precise focusing when I need to use a wider aperture. The shutter speed dial is very convenient to use and selected speed is shown in the viewfinder, a great feature that I have somehow overlooked previously. These are benefits that probably make the camera a great everyday companion for some people but to me the camera really shines in those moments as you walk up and down the hill, in and out some caves, during your adventurous trip. A small external flash will be a good addition to cover the night shots when needed.

If you ask me what’s the best travel film camera I would probably still recommend a point and shoot. But if you like using a rangefinder and want to have full manual control it’s hard to beat the CL as a travel camera. Did I mention that the camera doesn’t require any battery to operate? No risk of the camera dying because of drained battery or some piece of electronic part inside the camera deciding to retire during the trip. Well, it does require a battery for the light meter, but if you can live without it you can find a copy with a broken light meter for a cheaper price and spend your money on a good m-mount lens that you like instead! I do have one complaint about the camera actually. I still question the design decision for the weirdly placed strap lugs. Both being on the left side of the camera which sometimes makes the strap gets in the way of my eye and the viewfinder. It’s less convenient to wear it with a wrist strap too. Maybe I’m just nit-picking here but if one day I find a way to customize the camera and weld a strap lug on the right side of the body to mount a neck strap just like any other camera I would definitely do it.

I guess the moral of the story is that if you give yourself enough time to bond with a camera chances are you’ll find that it is actually much better than you think. The CL has found its place in my heart and is now my go to travel camera. I can even see it slowly becoming my go to everyday camera. In fact, one day when I finally find the courage to let go of my cameras and just live with one or two cameras I think it will probably be one of them. It is definitely special.

What’s your thoughts on the Leica CL?

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The 12 Best Travel Cameras of 2024

Whether you’re shooting landscapes or cityscapes, these are the best travel cameras for capturing your memories.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Tips For Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

Cameras let us snap scenes that inspire, places that take our breath away, and simple moments that make up the fabric of a destination through a single shot. Hefty camera bodies with giant lenses might seem like the obvious choice for top-notch photos, but for travel, they can be a bulky hindrance taking up too much packing space. Instead, consider your specific needs as a jumping off point when you're ready to shop for a new camera. Are you a hardcore adventurer? Are most of your travels long-haul trips? Are you a beginner or advanced photographer? These are all questions you should ask yourself to help narrow it down.

Whether you purchase a budget-friendly camera or something pricier, it'll be an investment — not only financially, but also in trusting your pick to properly capture once-in-a-lifetime experiences that don't come with do-overs. To help with your travel camera search, we also spoke to professional photographers Jonathan Pozniak and Viktoria North, as well as Nikon senior product manager Mark Cruz, to get some expert advice on how to choose the best camera for you.

Best Overall

Sony alpha a7cr.

It’s compact in size but a powerhorse.

There’s only one SD card slot.

A full frame mirrorless camera with incredibly high resolution, the Sony Alpha 7CR is our top pick for a travel camera. The compact size makes it very portable, and the interchangeable lenses give you a lot of versatility for shooting everything from landscape or wildlife to portraits and city scenes. As a photographer, I love the intuitive design of the Sony Alpha series cameras and this one is no exception; auto-focus tracking is impressive, in-body image stabilization does not disappoint, and the battery life has improved significantly from earlier models. Track your subject with the smart eye detection, for humans and wildlife, including a special bird option. I also appreciate how customizable the settings and buttons are, making your photography shoots more efficient. In addition to having the capability of capturing high-quality photographs in both RAW and JPG files, this camera takes video in 4K too. Built-in WiFi and bluetooth capabilities make it easy to share photos or connect to a remote as well. For a professional quality camera that won’t take up too much space or weigh you down when traveling, this is our top choice.

The Details: Full frame CMOS (35.7mm x 23.8mm) sensor | 61 megapixels | 1/8000 to 30 seconds shutter speed | 4K video | 1.1 pounds

Best Action Camera

Gopro hero12 black.

It’s waterproof and weatherproof.

It doesn’t include a GPS component.

The rough and tumble GoPro Hero12 Black has long been one of the top action cameras, with its pocket-sized and durable design. With improved image stabilization and battery life, as well as the ability to handle hotter temperatures, this newest version is no exception. With so many accessories that can be purchased separately, this camera can be equipped for any adventure, big or small, cold or hot, wet or dry. I especially love the bite mount for capturing POV, hands-free shots, with my dog. This camera is so compact and portable, it’s perfect for travel. Anything you find yourself doing, from mountain biking or skiing, to snorkeling, or taking a sunrise timelapse, will be captured so vibrantly. Customize the frame rate and settings when capturing video, with the option for 5.3K video quality. You have the option to shoot in RAW or JPEG, though you can only use the wide angle when shooting RAW. Other cool features include the ability to use voice commands to take a photo or start video, and modes like HDR, sup slow motion movie, and star trails.

The Details: Size-unspecified CMOS sensor | 27 megapixels | 1/8 to 30 seconds in photo mode, 1/480 to 1/30 seconds in video mode shutter speeds | 5.3K + 4K video | 5.4 ounces

Best Budget DSLR

Canon eos rebel t7.

It's super affordable and user-friendly.

It's best suited for entry-level photographers.

With the Canon EOS Rebel T7, you can save your dollars without skimping on image quality, and there's not much more you can ask for in the DSLR world. Although there is a newer version of this camera ( EOS Rebel T8i ), the T7 is still the most budget-friendly device with features perfect for someone ready to branch out and learn the ins and outs of DSLRs. That being said, it's more suited for a beginner photographer who wants to amp up their game past smartphone photography . It's a fantastic camera to practice manual mode and learn how to adjust ISO, aperture, and shutter speed settings. Eventually, it's likely that you'll be ready to graduate to a more complex camera — but we all have to start somewhere, right?

Canon is well known for having a straightforward, easy-to-use system, which is a huge bonus for beginners. The LCD screen is helpful for navigating the menu and setting up images, though it does lack the luxury of touchscreen capabilities. Built-in WiFi allows for quick sharing between devices, so your amazing shots can be posted to social media platforms in a jiffy.

The Details: Cropped CMOS sensor | 24 megapixels | 1/4000 to 30 seconds bulb shutter​​ | Full HD video | 15.06 ounces (body only)

Best Budget Mirrorless

Canon eos r50.

B&H Photo

It’s compact and lightweight, offering great value for its features.

Advanced photographers might prefer a camera with more bells and whistles.

The brand new Canon EOS R50 snags the spot for best budget mirrorless and doesn’t only promise great photo quality, but its video capabilities are fantastic as well. With 4K uncropped video and stellar subject detection and tracking at a friendly price point, this mirrorless model is a great everyday camera that’s ideal for everything from social media video captures to portrait and landscape shooting. Interchangeable lenses give you flexibility, and the compact design won’t weigh you down. Excellent auto-focus that can be tailored to detect humans, animals, and even vehicles is a major highlight, as is the 12fps (frames per second) burst mode. The touchscreen and creative assist mode make this a beginner-friendly camera as well as one that won’t break the bank.

The Details: Cropped CMOS (APS-C) sensor | 24.2 megapixels | 1/4000th sec - 30 seconds, in 1/3-step increments shutter speed | 4K video | 11.52 ounces

Best Retro Look

Fujifilm x100vi camera.

It has a timeless look with modern features.

Since it’s a limited edition model, there are only a certain number available for purchase.

We love how compact and sleek the limited edition FUJIFILM X100VI is, with the nod to nostalgia symbolized by the engraved original brand logo. This is our top pick for best retro-inspired camera, but if you can’t get your hands on one of these limited edition models, the FUJIFILM X-T5 is our next best bet. That being said, this model has fantastic low-light capabilities, in-body stabilization, 6.2K video capture, and improved in-body stabilization to minimize shaky shots. It has a tilting LCD touchscreen display, which I find makes it easier to snag those artistic selfies in the midst of epic landscapes or to get a solid group photo. The lens is a fixed 35mm lens. With the camera’s WiFi, it also uses an intuitive camera-to-cloud (c-2-c) system which automatically uploads content to the cloud-based platform. For a small camera with a "throwback" look that has amazing capabilities, this one is perfect for travelers as an everyday use tool.

The Details: APS-C X-trans CMOS 5 HR sensor | 40.2 megapixels | 1/4000 to 15 Minutes in manual mode shutter speed (mechanical), 1/180000 to 15 minutes in manual mode shutter speed (electronic) | 4K + 6K video | 1.1 pounds

Best Mirrorless for Beginners

The user-friendly design makes learning photography with this model much easier.

The flip screen tends to get in the way of a tripod attachment if you're using one.

We love how the Nikon Z50 is small enough to fit in your pocket, but don't be fooled by its size: it produces big-time quality images. "For those new to photography and video, this camera provides an exciting entry point. It's small enough to carry with you, but offers higher-quality images than your phone. This model is great to learn with as it incorporates many easy-to-use features, plus offers an automatic mode that senses different shooting scenarios and automatically adjusts the camera's settings (e.g., ISO range, exposure compensation) to deliver stunning results," Nikon's Cruz says.

The flip-down LCD screen is ideal for travel photographers and creators that want to take selfies, vlog, or include themselves for scale. The Z50 is also designed to save settings for both photo and video separately, so you don't have to worry about changing everything when you switch modes. With low-light capabilities, an easy-to-navigate menu, a sleek design, and 11 frames per second at full resolution, a beginner travel photographer will be hard pressed to find a better mirrorless camera.

The Details: Cropped APS-C CMOS sensor | 20.9 megapixels | 1/4000 to 30 seconds, bulb, time shutter ​| 4K video | 14 ounces

Best DSLR for Beginners

Pentax pentax kf dslr.

It produces high-quality images at a more affordable price than most competitors.

The video capabilities aren’t that impressive.

For those interested in getting their feet wet with photography, the Pentax KF DSLR Camera is our top choice for its durable, weather-resistant body, vari-angle screen, and compact size despite DSLR cameras’ reputation for being hefty in general. It offers a solid grip, and longer battery life, as most DSLR’s do. Start learning the camera in automatic and make use of the manual controls as you learn photography. The large viewfinder is fantastic, and this particular model mixes modern mirrorless technology with the classic DSLR viewfinder by offering a live view in addition to the optical viewfinder. You’ll be able to mix and match your preferred focal lengths with this model as well, since it’s equipped for interchangeable lenses. For the price point, this newbie from Pentax is a solid entry level DSLR for travel that won’t take up a ton of space in your bag.

The Details: Cropped APS-C CMOS sensor | 24.2 megapixels | 1/6000 to 30 seconds shutter in auto mode, 1/6000 to 30 seconds shutter in manual mode | 1080p HD video | 2.73 pounds

Best Mirrorless for Outdoor Photography

Om system om system mark ii.

The autofocus is fast.

The video capabilities aren’t as fast as other models.

The newest OM SYSTEM camera, the OM-1 Mark II Mirrorless model is a lightweight and compact, high-performing camera with durable construction and IP53 weatherproofing. This means it can withstand the elements when shooting landscapes or wildlife outdoors, including some rain, wind, and snowflakes. In fact, the camera is freezeproof, dust and splash-resistant, and can handle temperatures as low as 14 degrees Fahrenheit. The built-in stabilization is another key factor for outdoor and wildlife photographers, helping you to get the sharp image and assisting with longer exposures to minimize shake. The rubber control dials give you a little more grippy control when shooting, which is a nice additional feature that can go a long way. For a workhorse mirrorless travel camera that can hack it outdoors, this is a fantastic choice.

The Details: Cropped 17.4 x 13 mm (four-thirds) BSI MOS sensor | 20.4 megapixels | 1/8000 to 60 seconds shutter (mechanical), 1/32000 to 60 seconds shutter (electronic) | 4K video ​| 1.1 pounds

Best Splurge

Leica q3 digital camera.

It’s fast and performs well in most lighting conditions.

The front of the camera has a flat design, making it tricky to grip at times.

This pick is an upgrade to the Leica Q2 version of the company’s classic rangefinder camera, and we love how easy to use and versatile the Leica Q3 is across a wide array of shooting conditions. This fresh model allows for in-camera charging, which is a worthy upgrade from the previous one. The same full-frame capabilities are now paired with a powerhouse 60MP high-resolution sensor, hybrid AF (autofocus) system, and 8K video recording ability. The processing is speedy for both shooting stills and video, and boasts continuous shooting up to 15 frames per second. The fixed 28mm f/1.7 prime lens is impressive even in low light conditions, and a full battery charge will score you approximately 350 shots. The Leica Q3 is a great choice for intermediate to advanced photographers seeking high-end equipment for everyday purposes and professional jobs.

The Details: Full-frame BSI CMOS Sensor | 60 megapixels | 1/2000 to 1/2 second shutter speed, 1/2000 to 4 seconds in auto mode | 8K video at 30 frames per second, 4K video ​| 8.8 ounces

Best Underwater

Om system tough tg-7 black underwater camera.

It's tough and effective.

Divers should be aware that the waterproofing level only goes to 50 feet.

The upgraded Olympus Tough TG-7 is exactly what it claims to be: tough, rugged, and capable of taking superb underwater photos and videos. The solid handgrip does a great job giving you that extra security as you swim around and shoot the underwater world . New features added from the TG-6 include vertical video support, interval shooting, exposure smoothing, and USB-C connectivity for uploading content.

With a unique internal zoom mechanism, the 25–100-millimeter lens doesn't stick out from the camera body, keeping it watertight while you capture macro details of marine life from a safe distance. RAW shooting and 4K video make this not just any old underwater camera, but one with impressive capabilities. The super slow-motion mode is another favorite. It's rated as waterproof to 50 feet, making it the perfect companion for your snorkeling or free diving adventures . It's not just waterproof either; the shockproof design makes this camera perfect for ventures outside of the water as well. Bring it hiking, mountain biking, or just for a day at the beach without having to worry.

The camera is also easy to use, which is exactly what you want when you're shooting underwater. "I had fun with the Olympus TG-6 on assignment in Bora Bora. I'm a terrible swimmer so all I could do was click away and hope for the best. Thankfully it worked!" Jonathan Pozniak shares.

The Details: Cropped BSI CMOS sensor | 12 megapixels | 1/2000 to 1/2 second shutter, 1/2000 to 4 seconds shutter in auto mode | 4K video ​​| 8.8 ounces

Best Phone Lens

Moment tele lens.

It gives you 2x and 4x zoom capabilities when attached to single and multi-lens smartphones.

To achieve the 6x closer shot, you’ll need the Moment Pro Camera app.

Our top pick for a stand-alone extra lens to attach to your smartphone is the Moment T-series Tele 58mm lens, which allows you to zoom up to six times closer to your subject. As a standard, it also sits twice as close to the main camera lens of your phone. This allows for sharper shots versus using the zoom on your smartphone, which diminishes the resolution. Fantastic for landscape, wildlife, and portrait photography, this lens definitely elevates your smartphone photo game by offering more flexibility without sacrificing quality. Video will also benefit thanks to a beautiful bokeh effect and an overall cinematic vibe. This lens is easy to use, as it features a straightforward mounting process and quickly twists off. This lens is compatible with most phones, but it’s wise to consult the description before purchasing.

"For most people, a smartphone is all you need, but that may vary for each trip. If I'm out hiking for the day, my iPhone 12 Pro in my pocket is all I need, and the fact that it shoots RAW and video is a huge plus." Pozniak explains.

The Details: 58 millimeter | 300 line pairs per millimeter (axis), 200 line pairs per millimeter (edge) | 39.5 millimeter lens | 2.6 ounces

Best Pocket-Sized

Ricoh ricoh street edition.

B & H Photo

It’s very lightweight and portable.

There is no viewfinder.

We love the pocket-sized, travel-friendly Ricoh GR III Street Edition Digital camera for everyday use and portability. It’s easy to use with straightforward settings, menu, and customization. I really appreciate a camera that starts up quickly so you don’t miss the shot, and this one fits the bill. It has the capability to capture both JPEG and RAW files and you can get creative with the built-in filters like monochrome, HDR tone, and negative film. A fixed 28mm equivalent lens makes it versatile enough for portraits as well as landscape and street photography. This camera lacks a built-in flash but it does come with a hot shoe so you can attach a compatible external flash to it, if you’re taking night shots. Image stabilzation and an impressive auto-focus help produce sharper images, and a decent battery life makes it possible to explore a new city all day without having to worry that you’ll run out of juice. Bluetooth and WiFi make it easy to share photos as well. 

The Details: Cropped APS-C CMOS sensor | 24.2 megapixels | 1/4000 to 30 seconds shutter, 0.17 to 20 minutes shutter in time mode ​​| 1080p video ​​| 9.07 ounces

Tips for Buying a Travel Camera

Understand the specs.

"When you're thinking about buying a camera, it's important to understand what features and specifications complement your shooting style as well as the content you are looking to capture, whether it be still images, video content, or both," says Nikon's Mark Cruz. These are some of the specs you should consider before making a purchase.

Sensor size: Your camera's sensor is the rectangle that reads the image from your lens and dictates how much light and detail you're able to capture. The main sensor sizes to decide upon are cropped or full-frame, with full-frame cameras having larger sensors and the ability to produce higher image quality. Cropped frame sensors will get you a tighter frame, with magnification cropping the actual lens focal length by anywhere between 1.5x and 2x. This means that a 70-millimeter lens would be magnified to a 105-millimeter focal length with a crop factor of 1.5x. Common crop sensor sizes are APS-C and micro four thirds (1.6x and 1.5x).

There are advantages to purchasing a full-frame (35 millimeter) camera, though it will come with a heftier price tag. You'll experience sharper images with more crisp details, as well as less noise. Additionally, a full-frame sensor has excellent low-light capabilities, making it the ideal aspect for astrophotography . For landscape photography, the wider field of view is a major advantage of the full-frame sensor as well. If you're interested in professional photography, selling prints, or turning your shots into custom photo gifts , the full-frame sensor will be a good fit since it produces the highest possible quality images.

Megapixels: This is a measurement of the number of pixels the camera sensor has, with "mega" meaning "millions." Usually anything over 12 megapixels will get the job done. However, if you're planning on printing large-scale versions of your images for personal or professional use, the higher the megapixel count, the better. Most cropped sensor cameras have somewhere around 20–24 megapixels while full-frame cameras tend to have between 40 and 50 megapixels.

Shutter speed: This dictates the amount of time that your camera's sensor will be exposed to the light coming in. Faster shutter speeds such as fractions of a second are usually used for quickly moving subjects in order to freeze the motion in the photograph, while slower shutter speeds are typically used to capture things like the flow of a waterfall or the stars in the night sky by having it open and exposed for a longer period of time. When buying a camera, it's a good idea to purchase one with a wider range of shutter speeds to give you the most versatility. Typically, the range is between 1/4000 to 30 seconds. "Bulb" is available on some models and offers more than 30 seconds of exposure to light, usually for photographing the night sky.

Video shooting: The highest quality video on most cameras is 4K, which will give you superb quality. However, many still have full HD video at 1080p or 720p. If video is high on your priority list, 4K is certainly the way to go.

Weight: For travel cameras, this is one of the most important factors to consider. Most travelers want a camera that is lightweight for packing purposes and easy to carry around for the day. Think about if you are willing to lug a bigger DSLR or even a mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses in order to have the option for high-quality images that can be printed at a larger scale. If that's more than you need, then a compact, point-and-shoot, or your own smartphone with extra lenses might be the best fit for you.

Buy for your skill level and purpose

While browsing for a travel camera, first assessing your skill level and main purpose for shooting will help narrow down your search considerably. If you're a professional photographer doing brand work with a hotel in a far-flung destination that will be used in marketing campaigns or billboards, your purchase will most likely look a lot different than if your goal is to get images for your travel-focused Instagram page or to simply share with friends and family via digital picture frames . As a beginner, you should purchase a camera aimed at that level of photography with some room to grow, so you can learn effectively without being overwhelmed.

Choose a camera that fits your life and travel style

Do you spend a lot of time outdoors or doing water-based activities, or are you mostly interested in food photography when you travel? All of these aspects will help you determine the right fit for you. As photographer Jonathan Pozniak shares, it's also about comfort. "All cameras are good nowadays, and all have fantastic features. So here's my rule of thumb: go to a camera store, and hold each one in your hand. Listen to the sound it makes, feel what the clicking of the shutter is like," he says. "How do your fingers glide across the buttons? It should feel like an extension of your arm. Be intuitive with it!"

The art of packing a camera involves cushioning and protection against the elements (rain, dust, dirt, etc.). A backpack designed for camera use with a rain cover is always a good idea, particularly if you're someone who will be exploring the outdoors. Camera cubes are great accessories that provide an affordable way to turn a bag you already have into a camera bag.

"When I'm not bringing a lot of gear/cameras, I love the camera cubes by Mountainsmith for the airport and plane. I usually keep the cube in my room with extra lenses and if I am doing a lot of walking, just pick one lens to use for the day (usually a 50 millimeter)," says North.

"While today's mirrorless cameras are rugged, it is best to pack them in a camera bag to ensure as much safety as possible and avoid any potential damage. You should also make sure to put the body cap on the camera to protect the sensor from getting dirty, scratched, or damaged while traveling," she adds.

"Circular Polarizer and a UV filter, a comfortable strap like the Peak Design SL-BK-3 Slide , a backpack clip like Peak Design Capture Camera Clip V3 , and if you're heading somewhere with rain or snow in the forecast, Peak Design's shell ," says North.

You'll also definitely want something to backup all the incredible footage you'll be getting. "A portable hard drive for backups is essential! My heart crumbles when I hear stories of cameras and laptops getting stolen on the road. I've certainly experienced that myself. I make multiple backups each day and put each portable drive or thumb drive in a different bag just in case one gets lost or stolen," Pozniak shares.

Our experts also recommend making sure your batteries are fully charged before stepping out each day and bringing along a couple extras just in case.

Our experts had a lot to say when it came to the camera versus lens debate. "The camera and lenses are equally important, but it depends on what a person wants to capture," says Nikon senior product manager Mark Cruz. "The lens is what creates a gorgeous blurred background or lets you get close to the action from far away, but the camera provides the autofocus performance and speed to get there. The most important factor for the quality of photos is how you, as the photographer, make the most of your equipment. Combining photography knowledge with a powerful, capable camera and sharp, versatile lenses will allow you to get the best content."

Meanwhile, professional photographer Jonathan Pozniak argues that they're equally important, and emphasizes keeping your lenses clean: "Both! But what's even more important is how you use it, how it feels in your hand, and I've gotta say it, how clean your lens is!"

Fellow photographer Viktoria North was adamant that lenses are her highest priority, and she has very good reasons for putting them at the top of her must list. "With even the most basic of digital cameras now having impressive MP counts and full size sensors becoming more common, good quality glass is most important for me," she says. "This is because I can achieve a specific feel to my images dependent on the lens. For example, a fixed 50 millimeter is going to allow me to capture my urban travels as my own eyes see things. If I also go fast on it, say F1.8, that means the background is going to be nice and blurred and keep the focus on my subjects. But if I'm traveling in some beautiful vast landscapes, I'd grab a zoom lens. This will allow me to compress the different levels of the landscape and or subject and create a lot of depth. You don't always have to go with a big lens like a 70–200mm. I hike and backpack with a 24–105mm F4 most often and when it's at 105mm, I can achieve some really great compression with it."

The main difference between mirrorless and DSLR cameras is the tool or technology used to capture the image. A DSLR uses a mirror to reflect light onto the image sensor, but this makes a DSLR heavier and clunkier to carry around. They also usually only have an optical viewfinder which portrays more closely what the eye sees versus an electronic viewfinder on the screen. A mirrorless camera lets light directly hit the sensor, and typically has a live, electronic viewfinder so you can see the real time settings. Mirrorless cameras are more lightweight, therefore making them more portable and travel-friendly. They’re also quieter and faster due to the mechanism they use to capture light. DSLR cameras typically have a longer battery life and a wider array of lenses available, though with recent gains in technology for the mirrorless camera world, that’s changing.

Yes! They usually don’t have the highest megapixels and have a crop sensor, but you can still capture great photos. You may be limited to producing large scale prints, but, depending on the capabilities, you’ll be able to have prints made that are good quality in a fair amount of sizes. For online and social media, a point-and-shoot camera is perfect.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

A travel photographer herself, Lauren Breedlove used her personal experience with finding the right cameras and shooting in various conditions around the world. She also scoured the internet, researching and selecting the best cameras for travel, and interviewed professional photographers Viktoria North and Jonathan Pozniak , as well as Nikon senior product manager Mark Cruz , to gather expert insights. Using all of these factors, she curated this list of the best travel cameras.

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Leica M-System

The Leica M is an extraordinary camera. And it is most often found in the hands of extraordinary people. People who see the big picture, who look twice, question triviality and recognize the unusual in everyday things. They think outside the box, look beyond the every day, and expand their horizons.

This all requires a particularly special tool – the Leica M.

M – as in ‘Messsuchersystem’

‘Messsucher’, the German term for a combined rangefinder and viewfinder, found in every Leica M, presents a bigger picture - a broader view of your subject - and opens up a whole new world of creative freedom. The rangefinder system enables the capture of authentic, natural images, taken from the heart of life. Photographers become part of the action and frame, whatever they wish to capture in the viewfinder – a scene, a mood, a moment. 

Meanwhile, the photographer can still see what’s happening outside the viewfinder frame. A decisive advantage in stark contrast to the dictates of the view through the finder of a single-lens reflex camera. Here, you will see a finished picture in terms of framing and levels of sharpness. The rangefinder of a Leica M widens the photographer’s artistic horizons. The photographer has complete control over all creative aspects of composition and subject framing at any moment in time.

Size does matter

The width of the Leica M11 body measures only 38.45mm. This makes the M11 one of the world’s most compact full-frame cameras.

The M-Lenses also benefit from the short distance between the mount and the image plane, and are therefore extremely small and light. The extraordinary compactness of M-Cameras and their lenses makes them an ideal camera system for travel and reportage photography.

Made in Germany

Long before sustainability became a familiar expression, the Leica M and its legendary lenses represented the epitome of enduring value, and were passed down in families from generation to generation. And it lives on. The timeless design, the manual craftsmanship, and the use of only the finest materials guarantee unrivaled performance every day and an exceptionally long working life.  This is also true of the system compatibility of these precision instruments. A lens dating back to 1954, for instance, can be used without hesitation with the latest digital models in the Leica M range. More than ever, the evolution of the Leica M has been characterized by the consistent implementation of a single concept: at the time of its launch, every M-Camera represented the pinnacle of the ‘technically possible’ – including only the features essential for photography. The combination of mechanical and optical precision, and absolute discretion, has been at the root of the Leica M-System’s success since its introduction more than 60 years ago – and has remained a winning formula for the future.

Leica M-Lenses - Unrivalled. Even in low light.

Leica M-Lenses meet the highest demands of quality. They enable the creation of images endowed with an unmistakable character – not only in terms of contrast and resolution but also with uncanny sharpness, tonal depth, and a unique natural signature that is especially evident under adverse lighting conditions.

M-Lenses reveal their full potential when mounted on M-Cameras, as the sensors are precisely matched to their optical characteristics. Together, M-Lenses and M-Cameras are the perfect duo when it comes to ensuring maximum picture quality. 

In the footsteps of iconic photographers

Whether Nick Ùt or Magnum photographers like Elliott Erwitt or Thomas Hoepker - the heart-of-the-action immediacy of the rangefinder principle, a determined concentration on essential photographic needs, and fulfilling the most stringent quality demands, make the Leica M the preferred instrument for exceptional creative talents. The results are iconic photographs that influence our perception of reality and, with this, our view of the world around us. 

The exhibition “36 aus 100” at Leitz-Park Wetzlar showcases an exclusive selection of these photographs. 

On display are works that breathe life into the Leica legend and follow the traditions established by Oskar Barnack with his Ur-Leica, now more than a century ago. This was the first successful 35 mm camera, and it established an entirely new genre – namely, reportage photography. Both a legacy and an inspiration for every photographer exploring the world with a Leica M, to transform the images of the mind’s eye into photographic reality.

© Elliott Erwitt

© Thomas Hoepker

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A witness to history, graced by the hands of legends. A one-of-a-kind Rangefinder Camera System. Fascinating photographers and enthusiasts since 1954 with its Design, Made in Germany Quality and the legendary Leica Brand. From the first camera until today. Because an M is an M and remains an M. 

Register your Leica. Enjoy exclusive benefits.

By registering a Leica Account, you can extend the warranty on your Leica product for an additional 12 months and receive three digital editions of LFI Magazine. This offer covers all Leica cameras and lenses from the M-System, SL-System and Q series, as well as Leica Watches.

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• BUYER'S GUIDES

Classic Camera Reviews

Our 5 favorite 35mm rangefinder cameras (+1 digital rangefinder).

I’m a fanatic when it comes to classic 35mm rangefinder cameras. And based on 50+ years of hands-on experience, I’m confident that the very best analog rangefinder cameras do embody something special that’s mostly lacking in today’s digital marvels.

Rangefinder cameras are compact masterpieces of mechanical precision that have the look, feel, and balance of fine scientific instruments.  And when they’re fitted with the best age-appropriate lenses, they’re capable of capturing images of exquisite detail that have a vintage look. They’re not as optically versatile or easy to use as a current DSLR or mirrorless models, all lack modern conveniences like auto-exposure, autofocus, auto-bracketing, etc., and all but the last one in my list of favorites requires film. On the plus side, none of my analog favorites requires batteries, and they don’t have electronic components that might be impossible to replace down the road.

And so, without further ado, here are my five favorite 35mm-format rangefinder cameras of all time, plus one full frame digital rangefinder I just can’t live without. (You should also check out my recent buying guide to my favorite classic cameras of all time.)

This landmark rangefinder camera of 1954-1966 was an audacious new design that took the Leica to an entirely new level. Innovations include the M-bayonet mount still in use today, a magnificent combined 0.92x range/viewfinder with projected parallax-compensating field frame lines for 50, 90, and 135mm lenses, a film-wind lever in lieu of a knob, a single 1-1/1000 sec plus B shutter speed dial, a built-in self timer, and a removable base plate plus a hinged back door for easier loading. Later M3 models upgraded from double-stroke to single-stroke film advance, and added a finder frame preview lever. Built to the highest standards of mechanical and optical excellence, the Leica M3 is widely regarded as the best interchangeable-lens rangefinder 35 ever made and I concur, especially since I’m a 50mm shooter.

Alternative Leica Ms for 35mm wide-angle fans The Leica M2 of 1958-1967 is essentially the same camera as the M3 minus a few trim flourishes, a manually set rather than self-zeroing frame counter, and a 0.72x range/viewfinder with frame lines for 35mm 50mm, and 90mm lenses.  The Leica M4 of 1967-1975 added a combined set of frame lines for 35mm and 135mm lenses bringing the total to four, and added an angled rewind crank in lieu of the traditional rewind knob. Otherwise both are very similar to the M3.

These gorgeous late-model Canon screw-mount rangefinders that debuted in 1958 are the same except that the VI-L has a conventional top-mounted film-wind lever and the VI-T has a hinged left-hand trigger that nestles in the base plate when not in use. The trigger makes the VI-T body about 5mm taller and 55g heavier than the VI-L, which is why the VI-L is my personal favorite. They both have horizontal travel, metal blind focal-plane shutters with single non-rotating 1-1/1000 sec plus B shutter speed dials, and X-sync at 1/55 sec. The viewfinder has three click-stopped magnification settings—0.65x corresponding to 35mm lens coverage, 1.0x for 50mm lenses, and 1.55x (labeled Mg) for enhanced focusing accuracy. There are also reflected parallax-compensating bright frames for 50 and 100mm lenses, and an ingenious accessory shoe mechanism that elevates the front of accessory finders as you focus to compensate for parallax. Other features: a self-zeroing frame counter and a folding rewind crank. Both models are very well finished and very reliable and the precision and quality of their internal mechanics is in a par with the Leica M3—high praise indeed. Other excellent choices for Canon fans: The Canon P, a lower cost sister of the VI-L and the Canon 7s and sZ of 1965-67 both of which have built-in non-TTL CdS meters, albeit with film speed settings that top out at ASA 400.

Call me a contrarian, but I’ve always preferred the austere classic S2 of 1955-1957 (which has a large 1.0x finder with a single, stationary reflected frame line for 50mm lenses) over the legendary Nikon SP of 1957-1960, which famously has dual viewfinders providing parallax-compensating frame lines for 50, 85, 105, and 135 mm lenses and non-parallax corrected viewing for 35 and 28 mm lenses. The S2 has a very bright, crisp secondary rangefinder image, a nicely contoured, ratcheted single stroke wind lever, a rapid rewind crank, a smaller, lighter die-cast body, and a more convenient back lock than its predecessors. Its shutter is a horizontal cloth focal plane with speeds of 1-1/1000  plus B and T, and it features a Nikon S bayonet lens mount that’s a clone of the Contax mount. It’s beautifully made and finished, operates with silky smoothness and is a great picture taker when fitted with any of the outstanding S-series Nikkor lenses of its era. The Nikon SP is a better choice for accessing the full Nikon S lens system, but the S2 is my personal favorite because it is drop dead gorgeous.

Based on the iconic prewar Zeiss-Ikon Contax II and III, then the world’s most advanced interchangeable lens rangefinder 35s, the Contax IIa and IIIa of 1950-1961 used a simpler, more reliable version of the Contax signature vertical roller blind shutter, had a single shutter speed dial with speeds of 1-1/1250 sec plus T and B, incorporated a modified version of the superb Contax long base combined range/viewfinder, and retained the classic Contax dual bayonet mount. I favor the beautifully proportioned meter-less IIa over the IIIa, which has a clunky built-in uncoupled selenium cell meter housing on top that mars its lines. However, either one is a superbly crafted, exquisitely finished camera that accepts an extensive line of coated Zeiss-Opton and Carl Zeiss lenses that were unsurpassed in their day, and still capable of impressive performance. The IIa and IIIa were offered in earlier “black dial” and later “color dial” versions. The latter had its 1/50 sec X-sync shutter speed in yellow numerals, shutter speeds from 1/100-1/1250 sec marked in red, and a standard PC socket. Sadly, Zeiss-Ikon never upgraded the Contax to compete with the likes of the Leica M3 and Nikon SP, but the IIa and IIIa are still among the finest 35mm rangefinder cameras ever made.

Perhaps the best, most advanced non-interchangeable-lens rangefinder 35 ever, the Konica IIIA of 1958-1961 incorporated a spectacular life-size 1:1 range/viewfinder, which has large, bright projected frame lines that not only compensate for parallax over the entire focusing range but also correct for the decrease in angular coverage (field frame size) as you focus closer! The IIIA was originally fitted with Konica’s superlative 48mm f/2 Hexanon lens, and later a 50mm f/1.8 Hexanon was offered as an extra-cost alternative. Both versions had a Seikosha MXL leaf shutter with speeds of 1-1/500 sec plus B, Konica’s distinctive front-mounted, left-handed, two-stroke, film-advance lever, and a built-in self timer. The 50mm f/1.8 Hexanon is purportedly a tad better than the 48mm f/2 wide open, but the latter is more in keeping with the camera’s handsome proportions. The camera’s quirky film advance and coupled LVS aperture and shutter-speed rings take some getting used to but to paraphrase an old Konica ad, “The lens and viewfinder alone are worth the price!”

The latest full-frame digital Leica is the first and only digital M with a slim body profile that’s virtually the same as 35mm M-series Leicas of the past and present and that’s why it tops my digital rangefinder list. Its superb 0.73x range/viewfinder shows parallax-compensating projected frame lines in pairs, covering focal lengths from 28mm to 135mm, and there’s a frame line selector. Its 24MP CMOS sensor is coupled to a high-performance Maestro II Image Processor to deliver exceptional image quality, it has a 1.04m-Dot LCD with a Gorilla Glass cover, provides sensitivity settings of ISO 100-50000, burst rates up to 5 fps, and has built-in Wi-Fi, all housed in a weather-resistant brass construction body. Unlike other current Digital M’s the M10 is a stills-only camera, but that’s not a deal breaker for me.

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Yea for me it's a pre-requisite. Takes me back to shooting on the Blad where I had total control of the image making process. WHile the Leica (M11P) is obviously far more advanced than the Hasselblad, it's still a very basic camera by comparison to everything else on the market today. All those features do my head in. After 40 years of shooting, quite a few of them as an owner of a main street sudio I reckon I know how to operate a camera. I recently purchased a current model Nikon... I had to search the internet in order to find out how to change the ISO & aperture...Absolutely did my head in!!! I only bought it for macro work. Everything else on the Leica. The Leica is pure craftmanship and all parts of the image capture process is considered. With the Nikon, it's designed for PHD mode. Push Here Dummy.

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The best camera for street photography in 2024

The best camera for street photography will be discreet, have accurate autofocus and a vintage design won't go amiss

Our quick list

Best hybrid, best for stealth, best compact camera, most versatile camera, best for reach, best monochrome camera, best budget option, best for film simulations.

• How to choose
• How we test

The Quick List ↩ 1. Best hybrid 2. Best for stealth 3. Best compact camera 4. Most versatile camera 5. Best for reach 6. Best for monochrome 7. Best budget option 8. Best for film simulations How to choose

When I'm looking for the best camera for street photography I think it should deliver a superior in-the-moment photographic experience. Shooting street photography is all about being there, blending within your surroundings, and finding that split-second moment where all the elements align. 

As a street photographer, you'll be a keen observer, with an eye for documenting daily life. Anything from eye-catching outfits to ironic coincidences can be the purview of the street photographer. It's less about technical perfection, and more about capturing something raw and true.

We've split our list into two major categories: fixed lens compacts and interchangeable lens mirrorless cameras. If you're purely street shooting, then a simple compact may be the way to go, while mirrorless cameras are more versatile, and a good choice if you might want to try other genres like wildlife, portrait, or landscape photography.

One more thing. Street photography has a rich history in the history of photography, and there's a certain style to it. So we've taken into consideration the cameras we think best suit the style of shooting street. It's not just about aesthetics; many of these more retro-styled cameras pack in features that complement the shoot-from-the-hip philosophy of street photography. 

Gareth is the Reviews Editor at Digital Camera World, and the person in charge of approving all the latest camera-related tech. Spending a lot of time out on the streets of London snapping away, he knows a thing or two about which cameras work well for discreet street cameras. Outside of this, expect to find him cycling around, or deep in a Netflix binge.

Want to see our choices in a hurry? Well here they are… and if you want to find out more about them, the jump links will take you down to give you the full story of why we recommend them.

Bags of style backed up with serious imaging tech, the Fujifilm X100V has it all. The fifth in a line of prime-lens compacts, the X100V eschews zoom range in favor of a catch-it-all focal length and supreme image quality.  Read more below

The GR III, is a great option for street photography, so much so that it even comes in a dedicated "street edition" with a pop-on viewfinder and natty yellow stripe included. Read more below

If you want the best of the best compact cameras on the market that has a 60MP sensor, and a whole lot of street-cred and a super-sharp fimxed 20mm f/1.7 Summilux then look no further. Read more below

If you want a neat camera that is small enough to carry around the streets, has many options for lenses, and a great 26.1MP sensor. Read more below

The Sony RX100 VII is a brilliant compact camera that is small enough that you'll go noticed pulling this out of your pocket for some discreet street shots, but with a decent optical zoom, you can also choose to get close in to your subjects.

Read more below

The Leica Monchrom might be almost the definition of the classic street camera. Rangefinder design, manual focus only, and monochrome sensor. The camera might be limiting for many purposes, but for on the streets, it is perfect.

Best cameras for street photography in 2024

Why you can trust Digital Camera World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.

1. Fujifilm X100VI

Specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

Bags of style backed up with serious imaging tech, the Fujifilm X100VI has it all. The fifth in a line of prime-lens compacts, the X100VI eschews zoom range in favor of a catch-it-all focal length and supreme image quality. 

In our review, we found it to be a supremely enjoyable camera to use, I'd say it's one of the most purely enjoyable cameras that’s ever been made. 

The X100V has evidently been put together with street photographers in mind; its dial-based controls hark back to the old days of street photography, while its hybrid optical/electronic viewfinder is one of the best examples of its type on any mirrorless camera, full-stop. All of this does come at a price, but if you can justify the expense, it’s worth it.

Read our full Fujifilm X100VI review

2. Ricoh GR IIIx

Our expert review:

Like four-hour board games and The Rocky Horror Picture Show , the Ricoh GR cameras have acquired something of a cult following. Their fans will extol, to anyone who’ll listen, the virtues of their slim build and large sensor, a feature combination that makes the most recent model, the GR IIIx, a great option for street photography, so much so that it even comes in a dedicated "street edition" with a pop-on viewfinder and natty yellow stripe included. 

With impressive features like three-axis image stabilization, a high maximum ISO of 102,400, and a lean start-up time of just 0.8sec, the GR III has the imaging cred to back up its looks.

Also consider the Ricoh has come out with an alternative version of the GR IIIx, the Ricoh GR III . It's basically the same camera, but with one crucial difference – it swaps the 40mm equivalent lens for a 28mm equivalent. Neither of these is necessarily better for street photography; it's just about personal preference. If you like the sound of the wide perspective then the Ricoh GR III is for you, but think you might prefer a closer, tighter perspective, consider the Ricoh GR IIIx!

Read our full Ricoh GR III review for more details

3. Leica Q3

The Leica Q3's 60MP sensor never failed to impress me, producing breathtaking images that capture every detail. I particularly enjoyed the digital crop feature, which adds a fun element of experimentation to the fixed 28mm f/1.7 lens.

Each shot I took showcased Leica's remarkable processing, with colors that pop with exceptional dynamic range, making it the perfect compact camera for Street photography. The autofocus is quick and precise, especially when it comes to subject focusing, thanks to its efficient human and eye detection capabilities. 

However, I've found that the animal detection feature leaves much to be desired. It often misidentifies inanimate objects rather than living creatures however, I suspect this could be improved with firmware updates. In terms of video, the Leica Q3 delivers high-quality 8K footage in various professional codecs, but I've noticed that image stabilization struggles with handheld shake. 

Despite these drawbacks, the Leica Q3 remains a standout camera for everyday use, and it easily earns its reputation as one of the best compact cameras for street photography available today. Unfortunately, being a Leica, its lofty price tag makes it inaccessible to many photographers, which is a disappointment.

Read our full Leica Q3 review for more details

4. Fujifilm X-S20

In my review, I found that the Fujifilm X-S20 is the most versatile camera for most users. Its straightforward controls and excellent fully automatic modes make capturing great shots a breeze.

Plus, its small and compact size makes it easy to carry around wherever you go. Despite its size, the X-S20 packs a punch with its powerful processor capable of 6K video and subject recognition tracking, making it a great choice for photo enthusiasts, content creators, and those who love to shoot street photography too, like me.

While the price is a little higher than the previous version, I believe it's worth it considering the capabilities of this camera. It offers more than enough features to satisfy most users' needs, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone serious about photography or videography.

Read our full Fujifilm X-S20 review to find out more

5. Sony RX100 VII

A camera doesn’t get seven iterations unless the idea was good, to begin with, and the Sony RX100 VII is the latest in a line of terrific tiny compacts. Pairing a 24-200mm equivalent Zeiss -engineered lens with an extremely sophisticated autofocus system and enviably fast burst shooting is a winner in anyone’s book, and all this makes it right up the alley of any street photographer. 

All this tech doesn’t come cheap, however, and one could argue, as we did in our review, that the RX100 VII is a wee bit aggressively priced for a camera of its size (and sensor size). 

The good news, though, is that if the asking price is too dear for you, the preceding RX100 models are still largely in production, so by all means have a look and see if one better suits you (our RX100 comparison guide will come in handy there).

Read our full Sony RX100 VII review for more details

6. Leica M11 Monochrom

The Leica M11 Monochrom is a camera that speaks directly to my niche interests, and maybe yours too. As a black-and-white, manual focus-only rangefinder camera, it stands apart from the mainstream offerings. Sure, it can't shoot video, and the price tag of $9000 (£8,300) is hefty, but these characteristics are what make it so special.

Far from being shortcomings, these features encouraged me to approach my photography with a more deliberate mindset. Every shot becomes a thoughtful process, reminiscent of the glory days of film photography . Using the M11 Monochrom has been one of the most enjoyable photography experiences I've had in a while.

I understand that this camera isn't for everyone. It's tailored for a specific audience, and Leica knows exactly how to cater to their needs. For those of us who appreciate its unique qualities and Black-and-white only images, there's good news: it's possibly the best version of this camera to date.

Read our full Leica M11 Monochrom review for more details 

7. Canon EOS M6 II

If you’ll pardon our French for a moment, the EOS M6 II represented the kick-up le derrière that the EOS M series desperately needed, and for its price, it’s one of the best Canon cameras and mirrorless cameras around. 

Pairing a seriously impressive APS-C sensor with super-fast burst shooting and a beast of an autofocus system, this pocketable camera is more than just suited for street shooting, it excels at it. And given that it’s packing more megapixels than the majority of Canon bodies, it’s also a great choice if you’ve one eye on printing your images big.

Read more: Canon EOS M6 Mark II review or read our Best Canon EF-M lenses

8. Fujifilm X-T5

The Fujifilm X-T5 marks the latest step in Fujifilm's X-T series, and for me, it's more of an evolution than a revolution. As someone deeply passionate about street photography, especially capturing simulations of my favorite films too, this camera feels like a classic SLR-style companion with a modern twist.

I love the traditional dials on the top of the camera; they make changing ISO and shutter speed settings a breeze, giving me that tactile connection to my craft. The X-T5 builds upon the beloved X-T4 with an impressive 40.2MP sensor and 10-bit 4:2:2 video at 6.2K/30P, all while maintaining its lightweight design.

One of the standout features for me is the 3-way tilting touchscreen, which adds flexibility to image composition. In terms of its aesthetics, feel, and handling, the X-T5 stands out from the crowd, offering a unique shooting experience compared to other cameras like the Fujifilm X-H2 .

If you're torn between the X-T5 and the X-H2, I'd recommend checking out our comparison article, " Fujifilm X-T5 vs X-H2 ," to see which one aligns better with your needs and preferences.

For more see our full Fujifilm X-T5 review .

How to choose the best camera for street photography

When it comes to street photography, I've learned that the best mirrorless cameras and the best compact cameras may boast various features, but specific requirements truly make a camera shine in this genre.

For me, a good street photography camera must be small and discreet. It's essential to blend into the surroundings, observing scenes without drawing unnecessary attention. Big bodies and bulky lenses tend to stand out, which is not ideal.

Speed is another crucial factor. Snappy autofocus and a reliable burst mode ensure I capture the decisive moment without delay. It's reassuring to know that if I miss a shot, it won't be due to the camera's limitations.

When it comes to controls, intuitiveness is key. I prefer well-laid-out and tactile controls that allow me to adjust settings quickly without diving into menus. After all, time is of the essence during a street shoot.

Lastly, weight matters. Carrying the camera around my neck or on my shoulder for extended periods requires it to be lightweight. The ideal street camera shouldn't weigh me down as I navigate through the urban landscape, capturing fleeting moments of life.

How we test camera

In evaluating what cameras made the best ones for street photography, we conduct thorough assessments both in real-world shooting situations and under meticulously controlled lab conditions. Our lab examinations focus on key performance metrics including resolution, dynamic range, and signal-to-noise ratio. 

Resolution is gauged using ISO resolution charts, while dynamic range assessments are facilitated through DxO Analyzer test equipment. Additionally, we utilize DxO Analyzer for comprehensive noise analysis across the camera's ISO range. 

As for compact cameras, our evaluations are primarily based on real-world results and ergonomic handling, serving as the foundation for our informative guides.

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Gareth is a photographer based in London, working as a freelance photographer and videographer for the past several years, having the privilege to shoot for some household names. With work focusing on fashion, portrait and lifestyle content creation, he has developed a range of skills covering everything from editorial shoots to social media videos. Outside of work, he has a personal passion for travel and nature photography, with a devotion to sustainability and environmental causes.

Related articles

• Film Cameras
• Rangefinder Cameras

Five More Affordable Rangefinder Film Cameras

• April 15, 2019

Two years ago we tried to help budget-conscious photographers by publishing a list of excellent but affordable rangefinder cameras . Today, as more and more people begin to understand the historical importance and to appreciate the functional brilliance of old cameras, prices for the most in-demand models continue to rise. The result of this rightful market correction is that some of the affordable cameras in that original article have now become unaffordable for new shooters.

To help the cash strapped photo geek of today, we’ve compiled a new list of five additional rangefinders that still offer an excellent shooting experience on a shoestring budget.  

Canon Canonet 28

I’m not above admitting when I’m jealous. In this instance, it’s because so many of my fellow CP writers have gotten the chance to write about the Canonet GIII QL17 , while I have not. I consider the QL17 one of a very select group of perfect cameras. It’s almost certainly the most interesting camera Canon has ever produced. The only flaw in this majestic machine is its use of now-illegal mercury batteries, which I assume helps keep its market value reasonable. But to avoid talking about it again, I’ll choose a different, and much more affordable rangefinder from Canon – the Canonet 28.  

Within the Canonet family, the Canonet 28 is the pared down, budget-friendly little brother to the faster “quick loading” or QL models. Its 40mm lens was slower than the others with a maximum aperture of f/2.8 (compared to f/1.9 or f/1.7). It was also less complicated optically, with fewer elements, and used a Seiko LA rather than Copal SV shutter. But what it surrenders in prestige it gains in simplicity. Just choose the desired aperture (or the Automatic function) and shoot. As Drew noted in his review of the camera, the Canonet 28 produces well-exposed images with center sharpness and great contrast.  

The Canonet 28 isn’t the same camera as the GIII QL17. It’s designed for a different shooter with a different budget. Despite that, it retains many of the most important characteristics of the Canonet line, notably solid construction, compactness and a good focusing system. Most important to this particular article, it’s the best and cheapest Canonent .

Seldom have the words “Made in America” graced a camera body. Beyond Polaroid’s famed SX-70 and the Graflex Speed Graphic, competitive, traditional camera companies just never took root in the United States. Even giant American manufacturers, like Kodak, contracted their camera production to firms in Germany and Japan.

But there are still opportunities for photographers (especially the historical-minded) to “ buy American .” One such opportunity is the Argus C3, a rangefinder whose simplicity of design and operation led to it being given nicknames like “the lunchbox” and “the brick.”

And it’s a brick alright – a simple rectangle of metal and bakelite with a lens stuck on for good measure. The “brick” moniker specifically makes me wish it had been named the C4, because looking at it makes me think it could easily blast open a bank vault.

But as James said in his review of the C3 , there’s more to the Argus than meets the eye. It was an achievement for the era in which it lived, sporting a coupled rangefinder and interchangeable lenses. Both of those features are taken for granted now, but in the 1930s and ‘40s, they were a marvel in such an affordable camera.

The C3 can’t be recommended as your daily shooter, or your only rangefinder. It’s a bit too slow and a bit too clunky, and finding one in perfect condition will be tough. But we do think it’s a camera that every film photographer should own. It’s a camera that forces its owner to examine the photographic world from a different perspective. While it is certainly capable of making wonderful images, their final wonder is partially due to the experience of making them.  

Fed 5b, Zorkis, and Other Soviet Rangefinders

Uncle Sam may not have produced many cameras, but Uncle Ivan sure did. Despite their spotty reputations for quality and reliability, cameras made in the former Soviet bloc offer photographers outstanding cost savings in almost every single camera category. This includes rangefinders, which factories such as FED in the Ukraine and KMZ in Russia turned out in abundance.

I didn’t choose a specific model of Soviet rangefinders, because you’re generally guaranteed a cheap price with whichever one you choose. If you’re someone who relishes walking uphill both ways, then I recommend the FED 5b, which I wrote about last year . FED started out making copies of better cameras from Leica, first turning the Leica II into the FED 1. Later models would move away from direct plagiarism and become better representations of the stresses of a planned economy. While an occasional copy will suffer from quality control issues, all Soviet rangefinders benefit from the interesting glass they carry. These bubble bokeh wonders produce great saturation and personality.

Zorki rangefinders are another option from the Land of Lenin. These were made in the same factory as the famous Zenit line of SLRs and Horizon panorama cameras. Zorkis are some of the most beautiful cameras made behind the Iron Curtain, especially domestic models using Cyrillic script.  

A fair warning; the cost savings of a FED or Zorki camera are often offset by the shooting experience, which is frequently marked by frustration brought on by light leaks, an ornery film advance system and a painful focusing process. But if you’re willing to overlook those hazards, you’ll have a machine capable of producing great images for very little cost .  

On its surface there’s nothing outstanding about the Ricoh 500G. It’s plain, slow and there’s very little about it that makes it stand out above any other similar camera. But as Dustin said in his review , picking one up is like finding the “quaint alleyways and lesser-known pathways” of Rangefinder City.

The 500G offers semi-automatic and manual shooting modes. For beginners, this lowers the barrier of entry by making it a camera that gets off the ground quickly while offering learning opportunities down the road. Its 40mm f2.8 Rikenon lens isn’t the stuff of legends, but it’s indistinguishable from Canon’s 40mm lenses at f/8 and makes a great companion on family outings or as a street shooter.  

From its average viewfinder, mixed ergonomics, passable focusing and obsolete battery, the 500G towers over few other cameras. But if you’re someone who places importance on affordability, the 500G will exceed your expectations with its sharp design, high usability and compact size.

It doesn’t pop up online as much as the other cameras on this list, but when it does it’s priced to sell . Find one from a reputable seller and make sure it’s tested and working (these cameras suffer some reliability issues), and either make sure the light seals are replaced or be prepared to replace them yourself (a simple and cheap operation). One last tip – the Ricoh 500G was also sold as the Sears 35 RF, which means that in 1978 you could have purchased it with a new set of radial tires and a pair of husky jeans.

Yashica Lynx

It might be hard to remember now, but there was a time when the Yashica name wasn’t a groan-inducing joke. Before the days of their hugely-successful Kickstarter that introduced the abomination of the “digiFilm” camera to disappointed backers everywhere, Yashica was a lauded camera manufacturer responsible for a number of fantastic cameras and some amazing lenses.

The most famous Yashica rangefinder is the Electro 35 GSN, which Josh included in our original affordable rangefinder list from two years ago. That camera was famous for its excellent lens, ease of use, and for being an everyday carry of Spider Man. Yes, it’s still an affordable choice for budget-minded photographers, but we hate to repeat ourselves, so I’ll choose another – the Yashica Lynx 14.

It’s hard to find a bigger rangefinder south of medium format film anywhere.   The Lynx 14 weighs in at 30 ounces, thanks to its dominating Yashinon 45mm f/1.4 lens – which makes it one of the fastest fixed-lens rangefinders ever made. It also has a Copal SVE leaf shutter with a range from 1 second to 1/500 of a second. Since the shutter is inside the lens, shutter sound is barely audible and there’s virtually no camera shake at even slow speeds, making this a good street camera.

While there are a number of variations in the Lynx line, the 14E is probably the best of the bunch. A purely mechanical camera with a coupled rangefinder, frame lines and parallax compensation, it also has a CdS metering system that will indicate over- or under-exposure.

You have to give to get, and the Lynx’s toll comes in the form of its tiny focus patch that can be hard to use in bright light and extremely difficult in poor lighting. It’s also, as mentioned, a pretty hefty machine. But the price is right. The Lynx sold for for $160 in 1968 and can be found for less than that today. You’ll be able to find it much cheaper if you’re willing to slug it out in antique stores and flea markets. I found mine there for $25.

Even though the film camera market has corrected after three decades of being depressed, there are still fantastic deals to be found. It’s still possible to buy a professional-level film camera that will last (literally) a lifetime for under $200, and that’s pretty amazing. Many of the rangefinders on this list can be found for under $50.

Lastly, we know that some of our dedicated readers are among the most knowledgeable photo geeks on the planet. If any of you have suggestions for cheap, reliable, and capable rangefinders, let the rest of us know in the comments.

We hope this helps. Happy hunting.

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Jeb Inge is a Berlin-based photographer and writer. He has previously worked in journalism, public history and public relations.

The Yashica would be my pick. The quality of the images from the Yashica 110W Zoom 35mm camera, which I bought for £8 from a charity shop to use in India last month, in places where I would not want to risk my Leica R9 or digital CL (during Holi festival where buckets full of coloured powder and water get thrown over everyone) has blown me away. I was not expecting much from a 20 year old P&S zoom lens but in reality, I cannot see much, if any, difference between the photos taken with the Yashica and those taken with my Leica 50mm Summicron-R. The Yashica lens was supposed to be an own branded version of the Zeiss lens used in the T-VS digital T camera, which Kyocera-Yashica also made. Judging by the sharpness of the images, I would not be at all surprised if this was the case. Great £8’s worth. After a bit of clean with a damp cloth, it has even survived Holi and is still working. I bet my R9 would not have been if I had used that.

Speaking of Yashica, that brand itself could make this list whole, with all Minister, Electro 35 and Lynx variants. I have been lucky to have some 5 Yashica rangefinders by now, the the Lynx 14 as well, and have to say that it is a magnificent beast. But speaking about affordability, its smaller sister, the 5000, is just as good, even way way cheaper, and its leaf shutter goes to 1/1000th.

Great List! I Love my Lynx – I wrote a review for 35mmc (if I’m allowed to post the link). Love the soviet stuff too, they can be hard work though!

https://www.35mmc.com/14/12/2018/yashica-lynx-14-review-a-great-45mm-f-1-4-lens-with-a-good-camera-stuck-to-the-back-by-andy-larner/

my grandfather gave me his argus c3 its honestly not that great using it. but an interesting camera. I actually have two of them and have no idea how I got two.

Argus C3 is highly underrated camera. Pullout page 14 of manual which tells u all you need to know on the zone focus. I think at f8 and 15 on distance dial, everything from 4.5 ft to 25 or 30 ft is in focus. Just look at WW2 photographer Tony Vicarro books , Entering Germany all nicely done w C3. The Yashica Lynx shown comes in 2 models the 14 and 14e. I have both and are truly great cameras. Totally operational without battery too unlike electro G35.

Saying “competitive, traditional camera companies just never took root in the United States.” seems a tad simplistic, since from the 1890s to the mid 1960s, American made cameras were very much a norm, and I’d opine that roughly 75 years would certainly seem as a tradition that took root. Besides, it’s not as if mainstream German made cameras were terribly relevant once world wide production had overwhelmingly shifted east.

Still, a very good write up. I have most of the models listed and am both relieved (it’s not just me!) and disappointed that the dim RF patch is a prevailing trait of the Lynx. For a camera with such good glass that seems to beg to be shot in low light, I’ve nearly gone mad trying to make out the ghost in the RF patch when trying to shoot a scene in wooden environs. I feel like I should like this camera more than I do, yet every time I take it out, I just can’t wait to finish the roll and put the experience behind me.

The Argus C3 is truly an American made classic, but a far too often overlooked affordable contemporary would have to be the Kodak Signet 35: a well made Tessar formula RF that has the rare distinction (for a rangefinder) of being able to focus down to 2 feet. It definitely fits the bill of being affordable, often being found in working condition for about the price of 3 rolls of film, while offering a mid-century charm to it.

I have the Ricoh 500G and its a sweet little camera with a very good lens, which slips easy into the pocket. The viewfinder is nice and clear and I’ve always been happy with the results it produces especially with expired film. You can’t go wrong with the little Ricoh and it just so happens I’ve picked up the Ricoh 500me this week, which allows you to take double exposures with the flick of a switch so I’m looking forward to testing that out. Yes for me the Ricoh is the best of the bunch and it won’t cost you an arm and a leg to purchase. They are readily available online at various prices from £20-£50 but I have seen some go for £10, which is a bargain assuming that it’s fully functional.

I have to say, I bought a Canon A35F for 45 SEK ($5) at a charity shop, and the lens blew me away for the price. It’s the predecessor to the autoboy, and much much better. Sadly it’s fully automatic, but it has a built in flash that’s actually good.

That Argus looks familiar; I’m pretty sure there’s one of that model in the museum devoted to Jimmy Carter, that he used while in the Navy–I don’t think it’s the Carter Center per se, but it’s nearby. My spouse and I visited in 2019.

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Canon’s fruit-themed camera, the canon elph shades sunshine, the canon eos rebel xs – anonymity, autofocus, and andre agassi, the best travel camera today is a cheap, old digicam.