12 best camera innovations

Ratings of electronics and engineering goods

Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

Cameras, as well as smartphones and many other electronic gadgets, are a category of mass or professional goods with which the most serious consumer expectations are associated. That is why large specialized exhibitions like the same Consumer Electronics Show (CES) collect all the most interesting and new from a variety of manufacturers, creating a serious stir every year.

The editors, together with the Rankquality.com service, studied the chronology of the release of new cameras from the CES-2019 exhibition to the present day – the beginning of 2020. Based on the analysis carried out by our industry experts, we have compiled an overview of the most exciting new camera innovations of the past 12 months. We devoted a separate category to the most anticipated new products that have not yet been presented, but have already been announced

Rating of the best new cameras

Nomination a place Name of product price
The best new SLR cameras 1 Nikon D780 RUB 159,990
2 Canon EOS 250D RUB 36,900
3 Canon EOS-1D X Mark III RUB 469,990
The best new mirrorless cameras 1 Nikon Z6 RUB 109,990
2 Fujifilm X-T3 RUB 83,990
3 Fujifilm GFX100 RUB 769,990
4 Canon EOS Ra RUB 189,990
5 Leica M10 Monochrom RUB 615,000
The best new compact cameras 1 Olympus TG-6 RUB 25,990
2 Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VII RUB 75,998
3 Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II RUB 54,990
4 Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay RUB 12,990

The best new SLR cameras

First, let's take a look at what's new in the photography industry in 2019 in the category of full-fledged SLR cameras. These are the freshest novelties that the manufacturers have officially presented, so it's too early to judge the prices of some of them in Russia. For now, we will talk about the very fact of the release and about those characteristics that are officially known at the end of January 2020.

Nikon D780

Rating: 4.9

Nikon D780

First, we will consider an interesting novelty from Nikon – the Nikon D780 SLR camera, which is an actual continuation of the D750 series with a large 'admixture' of characteristics from the neighboring Nikon Z6 model.

So, the D780 is a mid-range full-frame DSLR aimed at amateurs and professionals alike. Built on the basis of a CMOS-matrix with a resolution of 24Mpixes (effective) with back illumination. Autofocus in Live View has been significantly improved by fitting directly onto the phase tracking sensor array. Autofocus is carried out on different points, including the faces and eyes. For those who prefer optical viewfinder aiming, the phase sensor itself is 51 points and is backed up by algorithms borrowed from the Nikon D5.

As for the continuous shooting, here it may not seem very impressive – only 7 frames per second with autofocus. However, in the aforementioned Live View mode, the camera turns into a mirrorless, and the frequency rises to 12 frames per second.

The possibilities for shooting video in the new product will roughly correspond to the same Nikon Z 6. So, you can write video in ultra-resolution 4K across the entire width of the matrix, but with fps no more than 30 frames per second. In FullHD, you can already shoot at a frame rate of up to 120 per second.

All the most popular add-ons like HDR support in 'version' H LG, picking, zebra, N-Log 10 bits are present. As for saving video material in RAW format, the manufacturer is modestly silent. NEF (RAW) photos can be taken seamlessly, including lossless or flexible mix of uncompressed formats and 'optimal' JPEG compression.

Dimensions of the device without a lens – 143.5×115.5x76mm. The metal case is equipped with dust and moisture protection. Operating temperature range – from 0 to +40 degrees. Weight with battery and memory card is 840g. The battery is a lithium-ion EN-EL15b⁶, you can charge it directly in the body of the device via USB-C. For data storage, there are two SD card slots supporting the UHS-II higher data rate.

In general, experts take the liberty of claiming that the Nikon D780 took the best from DSLR and mirrorless cameras. However, the model has yet to pass at least some test of time, and this applies to all solutions presented in our review.

Advantages

  • full frame;
  • compact;
  • relatively light weight;
  • hybrid viewfinder;
  • advanced autofocus;
  • the optimal combination of mirrorless and mirrorless form factors.

disadvantages

  • does not save video in RAW format;
  • the temperature of the medium is only above zero.

Canon EOS 250D

Rating: 4.8

Canon EOS 250D

The second number in the selection of the latest DSLRs of the late 2019 – early 2020, consider the amateur model EOS 250D from the permanent market leader Canon. Although the degree of professionalism of the camera does not always correlate directly with the price, the cost of the EOS 250D is really acceptable. Now it is difficult to say who was the first to dub this model “the world's lightest DSLR with a rotating screen”, but this characteristic quickly caught on, and it is quite fair.

2019 was the year of mirrorless dominance, but Canon managed to release a DSLR model even after two mirrorless cameras came out in a row. The EOS 250D replaced the super popular EOS 200D, which proved to be a commercial success. The new model combines some of the best features of the EOS 200D and the other EOS M50.

Here we see an APS-C CMOS sensor with an effective resolution of 24Mpix and the embedded Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology. Crop factor – 1.6. An optical viewfinder is provided. Photo shooting speed – up to 5 frames per second.

From the EOS M50, this model borrows the ability to shoot video in ultra-high resolution 4K, but with a limited frame rate of up to 25 frames per second with a bitrate of 120Mbps. And this is not the only limitation. When shooting in 4K, Dual Pixel CMOS AF will not work, and not all of the matrix will be available, but only the middle with a crop of 2.64x. But in FullHD, on the other hand, there are no restrictions either on the useful area of ​​the matrix, or on the use of Dual Pixel CMOS AF.

The set of interfaces here is quite good – USB2.0, HDMI, microphone input, wireless Wi-Fi modules and Bluetooth, NFC tag. There is a remote control.

Now let's get back to where we started. Indeed, the camera is one of the lightest – it weighs only 449g including the battery. Dimensions without lens – 122x93x70mm. The LCD screen is rotatable, touch, 3 inches in diagonal. The lens mount used is Canon EF. Estimated battery capacity (native form factor) is roughly 1070 photos.

The body of the camera is made in a classic style; three color options are available – black, silver, white. But the most accessible is the first. The other two on sale may not be easy to find. This model is supplied as a complete set with a lens, and separately 'carcass'.

Advantages

  • minimum weight;
  • rotary screen;
  • 24Mpix matrix;
  • Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology;
  • wireless communication modules;
  • NFC;
  • affordable price.

disadvantages

  • 4k video is sprinkled;
  • many outbreaks of previous generations are not like.

Canon EOS-1D X Mark III

Rating: 4.7

CANON EOS-1D X MARK III

To round out the selection of the best new SLR cameras according to version, the latest and hottest new product from Canon. This is one of the most anticipated models announced last fall 2019 – the top reportage EOS-1D X Mark III DSLR.

Here it is worth immediately identifying certain boundaries of the possible. This is a professional model, which the developer company itself unequivocally positions as a potentially 'Olympic' model along with flagships of other manufacturers, designed specifically for the games in Tokyo. Therefore, at the beginning of 2020, the EOS-1D X Mark III will have to pay a little less than half a million rubles (for comparison, the Mark II is almost exactly half the price). But, as for the 'Olympic' flagship, there is no particular price alternative.

This model has a CMOS sensor of 36x24mm and an effective resolution of 20.1 million pixels. In this regard, the camera is not far from its direct predecessor, the EOS-1D X Mark II. However, this helped to preserve and even enhance the camera's capabilities in terms of shooting in low light conditions, a point that Canon marketers diligently emphasize.

Close attention is paid to the speed of operation and autofocus. The phase tracking sensor covers the full height and 90% width of the conventional field of view to form 525 tracking zones. For aiming through the optical viewfinder, an advanced autofocus with a sensor is installed here, which, according to official data, is almost three orders of magnitude higher resolution in the center than the Mark II.

Serial shooting is quite on the level here. When using the optical viewfinder, the speed will be up to 16 frames per second, and in Live View mode, up to 20 frames per second. Of course, focusing and metering takes place before each shot.

In addition to the JPEG and RAW formats, this model can record images in 10-bit HEIF format, which provides a high dynamic range. The possibilities for shooting video are also encouraging. You can record video directly to the memory card in ultra-high resolution 4K, and even at a frequency of 60 frames per second. But this is not the limit – the device can also write 10-bit 4: 2: 2 Canon Log to the same memory card. By the way, about cards – in the EOS-1D X Mark III you can use two CFexpress formats.

A proprietary lithium-ion battery delivers over two hours of continuous 4K footage.

Advantages

  • improved quality with a lack of lighting;
  • photo recording in extended HEIF format;
  • video recording in 4K at 60fps;
  • autonomy;
  • overall a powerful top-end reportage DSLR.

disadvantages

  • high price;
  • far from a record matrix resolution for such a price.

The best new mirrorless cameras

The second selection in the review of the best new camera products according to the magazine is more extensive than the first one, and this is because the entire last year 2019, the market was replenished mainly with bright mirrorless cameras. It looks like the world's top manufacturers, no matter how they cling to the mirror classics, will have to change their worldview sooner or later. Otherwise, as observers say half-jokingly, half-seriously, the next Olympic Games after Tokyo will be filmed by photographers on smartphones.

Nikon Z6

Rating: 4.9

Nikon Z6

First of all, let's take a look at the camera, which was already featured in the review when we took apart the Nikon D780. These two models came out with a short time interval. The Nikon Z6, even in the midst of a parade of mirrorless cameras from other manufacturers, managed to get the 'Camera of the Year' nomination by the EISA association.

First, let's figure out the key technical characteristics of the device. Here we see a full-size CMOS matrix with a resolution of up to 24.5MP, capable of forming an image with a maximum resolution of 6048×4024, a color depth of up to 42bit and a self-cleaning function.

The viewfinder of this model is electronic, large and very informative. The 3.2 ”LCD screen can also be used for guidance. The screen is touch-sensitive and rotary. The number of pixels of the viewfinder – 3.69 million, screen – 2.1 million. Hybrid AF provides up to 273 focus points. Autofocus has eye and face detection, and it works fine with precise aiming. Focus can be adjusted manually.

Burst photography provides up to 12 frames per second. There is a timer for 2, 5, 10 and 20 seconds, as well as a Time-lapse mode. Two-factor stabilization during photography – optical and by shifting the matrix itself. The camera can save the footage in JPEG (two compression rates), TIFF, RAW, as well as TIFF + JPEG dual mode.

In terms of video shooting, this model does not break records, but it provides the necessary level. So, the device can shoot in FullHD 1920×1080 resolution up to 120fps, and in UHD 4K 1920×1080 resolution, the frequency drops to 25-30fps. The size of the video file is limited in size – 4GB or in terms of recording time – 29 minutes.

For all-round communication, the Nikon Z6 has HDMI interfaces; USB3.0 with charging support; microphone input; output to the headset; wireless modules Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. Estimated autonomy corresponds to approximately 310 captured photos, and this is the weakest point of this model. The second big drawback is that the device is 'sharpened' for insanely expensive XQD memory cards.

As of February 2020, a Nikon Z6 'carcass' costs about 110 thousand rubles in Russia. Kit with a whale lens – almost 150 thousand rubles.

Advantages

  • full-size matrix;
  • large and informative viewfinder;
  • two-factor stabilization for photography.
  • shooting video in 4K;
  • wireless communication modules;
  • fast USB3.0 with charging support;
  • remote control.

disadvantages

  • only XQD memory cards are suitable, very expensive;
  • not the most outstanding autonomy.

Fujifilm X-T3

Rating: 4.8

FUJIFILM X-T3

The second number in the selection of the most interesting new products for mirrorless cameras is the new X-T3 from Fujifilm. Here the company has achieved notable successes in terms of photo and video shooting for devices of a more or less affordable price category. So notable that the X-T3 was highly praised by the European Association for Audio and Video Publishing (EISA).

The X-T3 received from the developers an X-Trans CMOS4 matrix with a resolution of 26Mpix and a crop factor of 1.5, capable of taking pictures with a maximum resolution of 6240×4160. The color depth is 42 bits. It is the first APS-C model to be backlit with full-frame phase sensors. There is no low-pass filter, due to which the highest possible image detail is achieved in this context. The X-Trans color filter successfully suppresses moiré and stray coloration.

The digital image processing function is performed by a 4-core X-Processor 4 chip. The increased processor power allows the X-T3 one and a half times faster than the X-T2 to direct autofocus and measure exposure. This is especially important with continuous shooting, which the X-T3 can shoot at 11 fps. And this is also with a mechanical shutter, and when using an electronic shutter, the speed increases to 20 fps, and without blackouts, but, however, the frame is sprinkled at 1.25.

This model does not have any problems in terms of shooting video in ultra-high definition 4K at 60fps. But you need to be prepared for the 30 minute recording time limit. This is an unpleasant moment, but it is a given. Also, when shooting for a long time at maximum quality, noticeable heating will be felt.

The X-T3 has noticeably improved autofocus, and literally in all directions. 2.16 million phase-sensitive pixels cover the entire frame area, and phase tracking works correctly when the lighting level is reduced by as much as two points compared to previous generations of cameras in this line. That is, the X-T3 can accurately direct autofocus literally in the twilight.

The viewfinder definitely pleases. It is digital here, with a diagonal of 0.5 inches with a resolution of 3.69 million points and even has its own small magnification factor – 0.75x. The refresh rate of the image in the viewfinder is 100 times per second. Display delay – 5ms. The screen itself is made according to the most advanced technology to date OLED. There is a diopter adjustment with a lock.

Advantages

  • advanced backlit matrix;
  • tenacious and accurate autofocus;
  • shooting video in 4K 60fps;
  • full HDR support;
  • electronic viewfinder OLED;
  • full frame coverage with phase-sensitive elements;
  • wireless communication modules;
  • one of the best combinations of performance and value.

disadvantages

  • users do not like the 30 minute video recording time limit;
  • weak battery.

Fujifilm GFX100

Rating: 4.7

Fujifilm GFX100

The third number in this part of the rating is another new product from Fujifilm, and it will be a real treasure of innovations and the embodiment of technological progress. Even when compared to its quite advanced predecessor, the GFX100 is far ahead. What can I say, even if EISA recognized this model as 'the best among innovative'. Our experts included it in the review more for general development and broadening the horizons of our readers, since very few can afford it so far. Its price is absolutely prohibitive.

This is the first camera on the market with an image sensor larger than 35mm to feature phase-tracking pixels and backlighting. Actually, the dimensions of the matrix are 43.8×32.9mm. The huge 102MP resolution allows you to create images with native resolution up to the unimaginable 11648×8736 pixels.

The camera is equipped with a 3.2-inch diagonal electronic viewfinder, with a 100% field of view and a resolution of 5.76 million pixels. The image is also displayed on the rear rotatable LCD screen.

The GFX100 significantly improves on the already nearly flawless autofocus for which previous generations of Fujifilm's GFX series cameras were renowned. Tracking autofocus has received additional settings, contributing to extremely accurate tracking of even the fastest objects. 3.76 million phase-sensitive pixels cover almost 100% of the entire matrix. A total of 425 focus points can be nominally used.

Despite the prohibitive 'megapixel', the GFX100 is quieter than the previous generation of the series, not least thanks to the backlighting. Also here we see a wider dynamic range and an increased signal reading speed. The powerful X-Processor 4 combined with an innovative sensor allows the camera to seamlessly record 16-bit RAW image and video files of unimaginable quality and resolution.

The developers' 'control shot' in the direction of skeptical remarks that sounded after the announcement – the integrated image stabilization system at the matrix level (IBIS). It implies stabilization in 5 axes up to 5.5 stops. The bolt mechanism 'swings' on four springs to minimize vibration.

For all its incredible specs, the GFX100 is not strong in terms of video. So, the device can shoot in 4K 3840×2160, but with a frame rate of no more than 30fps.

Advantages

  • large matrix with huge resolution;
  • extremely accurate focusing;
  • advanced autofocus;
  • powerful processor;
  • 16-bit RAW recording;
  • the richest equipment.

disadvantages

  • no more than 30fps when shooting video in 4K;
  • prohibitive price.

Canon EOS Ra

Rating: 4.7

CANON EOS RA

This and the next model in the ranking of the best novelties of cameras according to the version is not just new, but something special. Now we will consider the Canon EOS Ra camera, which was released quite recently – in November 2019 and served as a continuation of the R series. The model is specific in a good way and even surprising in its purpose – for astrophotography and versatile shooting of the night sky.

To be precise, the EOS Ra is not much different from the EOS R released in 2018. But these differences served as an adequate response from Canon to the requests of astrophotographers. So while the machines are almost identical, this 'almost' makes a dramatic difference.

The key technical points of these two modifications are the same. The EOS Ra features the exact same 30.3MP sensor, the same focusing system and the same digital imaging processor.

The sensor filter has undergone some changes. The difference is very subtle, but it is the most important for astrophotography – the device can record 400% more H-alpha line radiation. In practice, this means that the image will show the red colors of the nebulae. Ordinary, even expensive and powerful cameras of such 'superpowers' are deprived as unnecessary. The thing is that interstellar clouds are composed mainly of helium and hydrogen, and 'glow' only in the infrared range, which mercilessly cuts off the filter of any other camera.

Also, at slow shutter speeds, it is extremely important to keep the camera steady and eliminate even microscopic vibrations, otherwise there will be problems with sharpness. Here, the mirrorless form factor itself contributes to this. The mirror lifting mechanism capable of causing critical vibration is absent here by definition.

The EOS Ra also adds features to assist when paired with a telescope. First of all, these are options that contribute to the same focusing, including even highlighting the field of focus. Needless to say, the magnification here simply could not but be improved. Indeed, the EOS Ra has three times the magnification of the 'sibling' – 30 times.

Finally, an important detail. The device is capable of shooting video in 4K resolution and outputting a 10-bit signal via the HDMI video interface.

Advantages

  • full frame;
  • the filter fixes infrared radiation;
  • 30x magnification;
  • improved focusing functions;
  • high matrix resolution;
  • shooting video in 4K and outputting a 10-bit stream via HDMI.

disadvantages

  • no systematic complaints from users have yet been observed.

Leica M10 Monochrom

Rating: 4.7

LEICA M10 MONOCHROM

And to conclude a large selection of the best new products in the segment of mirrorless cameras is something very special. This is the legendary Leica, and not simple, but monochrome, as you might guess from the name. The camera is insanely expensive, but it still does not break the review record set by the above-described Fujifilm GFX100 model. But the price here is even more justified than in the case of the GFX100, since the M10 Monochrom is intended for the true 'elite league' photographers.

This is the third generation of Leica full-frame mirrorless cameras designed for high-quality black and white photography. Experts in unison assert that the M10 Monochrom takes monochrome photography to a new, previously unthinkable level, and it's hard to disagree with this. Indeed, the installed matrix with a resolution of 40 megapixels is by no means a production one, but was developed specifically for this model of the camera, taking into account all the future nuances of the equipment and power of the electronics. The high sensitivity of the sensor, combined with the resolution, allows for completely unprecedented reproduction of details in virtually any lighting level.

The Leica M10 Monochrom is also a pioneer in a number of features. So, for example, this is the first 'rangefinder' with an ISO range of 160 to 100 thousand. When developing the sensor, its resource was originally incorporated into the ability to achieve higher ISO values ​​at a lower base ISO when compared with previous Leica monochroms.

This apparatus has a huge creative component, even in small nuances. So, the shutter here is the quietest of all the series, it literally 'whispers' and allows you to shoot as quietly as possible and not give out your presence. There is no classic noticeable red logo on the facade either, and the exterior of the camera is minimalistic and completely monochromatic without contrasting elements. Finally, the M10 Monochrom is compatible with all M lenses, thereby maximizing the scope for creative expression.

As for the quality, the brand itself says a lot. If this is not enough, we can add that the Leica M10 Monochrom is assembled by hand in a high-tech production in Germany, and not just good workers, but highly qualified specialists with an impeccable reputation and extensive experience.

Advantages

  • premium class;
  • famous brand;
  • manual assembly;
  • impeccable quality;
  • 40 million monochrome pixels in the matrix;
  • full-size;
  • compatible with all M lenses.

disadvantages

  • 'barrage' price.

The best new compact cameras

The third and final selection of the review of the best new camera products according to the version includes the most noticeable solutions of 2019 and the beginning of 2020 in the compact camera segment. These are the so-called 'soap dishes', but in this context such a formulation is not entirely correct, since the term 'soap dish' has a long-standing flair of cheapness and limitedness. But in fact, cameras compact in form factor can be multifunctional, and very expensive.

Olympus TG-6

Rating: 4.9

OLYMPUS TG-6

The only model of the Olympus trademark in our review opens the final category. This is a continuation of the well-known series, which is great for holidays, including active ones.

The first thing that immediately hints that the camera is aimed at operation in field conditions and in a very different environment is the availability of reliable protection against water, dust and exposure to negative temperatures. Indeed, the camera can even be used underwater, and interestingly enough, it has a separate mode for underwater macro photography!

Compared to the previous, fifth generation of the Olympus TG series, the “six” received an improved microscope mode, and the distance is minimized to 1 cm. Macro mode has all the necessary and useful additions such as bracketing and focus stacking. The aforementioned underwater macro mode has new preset white balance settings optimized for different depths.

The display has also undergone changes for the better. Mostly they touched on the resolution – now it is 1.04 million pixels. The device also has new accessories, among which the FCON-T02 fish-attachment, which is highly desired and expected by buyers.

Now let's take a quick look at all the most important characteristics of the device, regardless of its relationship with the predecessor of the fifth generation.

The TG-6 is the most classic rugged compact with a 1 / 2.33 ”matrix and 12MP resolution. The sensor is back-illuminated to reduce noise and generally produce images with flawless sharpness. 4x zoom corresponds to a focal length range of 25 to 100mm. The device can shoot video in ultra-high definition 4K.

The built-in lens consists of 9 optical elements in 7 groups. The crop factor of the matrix is ​​5.7. The maximum resolution of the reproduced image is 4000×3000 pixels. Built-in flash range – 7.9 meters. The viewfinder is not provided, aiming is carried out on the LCD screen on the back. The diagonal screen size is 3 inches, the resolution is 1,040,000 pixels.

The model supports continuous shooting at 20 frames per second. The maximum burst size is 49 RAW images.

This model is equipped with a Wi-Fi wireless communication module and a GPS receiver.

Advantages

  • back-illuminated matrix;
  • protected case;
  • works in the cold;
  • effective macro shooting modes, including underwater;
  • white balance presets for different depths;
  • shoots video in 4K;
  • Wi-Fi and GPS modules;
  • equipment.

disadvantages

  • not the most capacious battery.

Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VII

Rating: 4.8

Sony Cyber-shot RX100 VII

The second number in the selection of the best novelties among compact cameras is the product of the company, which we could not completely ignore in our review. We are talking about Sony Corporation and the seventh generation of the RX100 series. The previous version, the RX100 VI, was awarded the 'Best Compact Camera' award in the annual EISA ranking. The Seven has retained all the advantages, having seriously added in terms of improvements.

Like the previous version, the RX100 VII is aimed primarily at video bloggers. Originally, the Sony RX100 series itself was created as a compact assistant for the professional photographer for various occasions. But as model after model came out, developers began to pay more and more attention to video capabilities. The RX100 VII maintains an optimal balance in this regard.

This model received the same exact lens as the 'six' – 24-200 mm equiv. with aperture f / 2.8-4.5. However, the matrix itself was nevertheless changed to a newer one, with a resolution of 20Mpix and a format of 1 “. The difference is in the greater number of phase-tracking AF points. There are 357 of these points in total. Of particular interest is the real-time tracking function, as the models of Sony cameras of a different class – A9 and A6400 – can do. Autofocus is provided not only for aiming at the eyes of people, but also at the eyes of animals. In general, the company's representatives insist that the RX100 VII embodies many ideas and technologies borrowed from the top-end Sony A9.

A separate significant plus is continuous shooting at up to 20 fps, and without viewfinder blackouts. The maximum principal shooting speed is 90 frames / s. True, there are serious limitations here – locking of focus and exposure and the absence of preliminary buffering. This mode is suitable for extremely critical situations.

This model is capable of shooting video in UHD 4K 3840×2160, but at maximum resolution it will be limited to 30 frames per second. But there is practically no rolling shutter. In FullHD resolution, the frame rate can be significantly higher up to 120fps. There is also a separate mode of increased frame rate, when this indicator grows to an unimaginable 1000 frames per second. There is both digital and optical stabilization. Separate video capture mode for stories in portrait orientation.

Advantages

  • high-quality matrix;
  • many focus points;
  • real-time tracking;
  • aiming at the eyes of people and animals;
  • continuous shooting without blackouts;
  • video recording in 4K;
  • mode of increased frame rate up to 1000 per second;
  • Inherited ideas and technologies from the top-end Sony A9 camera.

disadvantages

  • no systematic complaints have yet been identified.

Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II

Rating: 4.7

CANON POWERSHOT G5 X MARK II

The third number in the selection is another 'Shot', but only from Canon, and it will be the Mark II of the PowerShot G5 series. Compared to its immediate predecessor, this model has little resemblance to it. The Mark II has been redesigned very, very significantly. And this is natural, since the time difference between these two generations was as much as 5 years, and during this time the technologies managed to step far ahead.

Actually, only the concept remained most confidently from the old 'Mark'. Mark II is the same compact with non-interchangeable optics, matrix of the same format (1 “) and, in general, flagship characteristics, which directly affects the price. Yes, for the Canon PowerShot G5 X Mark II now you will have to pay at least 50 thousand rubles on Russian trading floors. This is exactly the moment that we talked about in the preface to the section – not everything is 'soap dish' that is compact.

The design of the camera is extremely minimalistic and austere. The form factor is as pocketable as possible. But for all the minimalism, the developers managed to fit a full-fledged electronic viewfinder into a small and already 'stuffed' body. It is retractable and rises directly from the body. We even managed to equip the device with a 180-degree rotatable LCD screen.

This model uses a multi-layer CMOS sensor. The memory is located on the same silicon chip, due to which it was possible to achieve a significant increase in sensor speed compared to past and some neighboring Canon models.

In its pure form, the shooting speed in terms of the RAW format and the resolution of 20MP is 30fps. With AF tracking, maximum 8 frames per second. There is a preliminary shooting mode – in this case, the camera constantly shoots everything that it 'sees' and copies it to the clipboard, waiting for the shutter button to be pressed. This mode was created for those situations when a person physically cannot instantly react to an event, and even more so the camera itself does not have time to do it. Using such a buffer allows you to rewind reality into the past by half a second. All these subtleties are controlled by the powerful DIGIC 8 processor.

The camera shoots video in 4K resolution without cropping parts of the matrix at a maximum speed of 30 frames per second. In FullHD, the speed can go up to 120 frames per second. A lens with a zoom corresponding to focal lengths from 24 to 120mm at apertures from f / 1.8 to f / 2.8. There is optical stabilization. There are all the necessary communications, including wireless modules Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Charge from USB-C with PowerDelivery.

Advantages

  • high-quality matrix;
  • retractable digital viewfinder;
  • preliminary shooting mode;
  • shooting video in 4K;
  • Wi-Fi and wireless modules Bluetooth;
  • charging from USB-C with PowerDelivery.

disadvantages

  • low battery life – up to 230 shots, with the viewfinder – up to 180.

Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay

Rating: 4.6

Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay

And the final position in the review of the best new camera products in 2019, the beginning of 2020, according to the magazine, is another extremely interesting model from Fujifilm. Already in the name of the Instax series, you can clearly feel some connection with the photo service Instagram. And this connection really exists.

The new Instax Mini LiPlay is designed in the logo style Instagram, but the essence is far from style. The fact is that this model is the first in the series to become fully digital. Rather, as the manufacturer himself calls it, 'hybrid'. Instax has been called by some as 'the latest stronghold of analog photography'. And this stronghold still collapsed. The series still switched to digital.

Instax Mini LiPlay has a 5MP sensor with 2.7-inch display. Allusions to compact cameras of a more or less mass segment, which were in the TOP 10-15 years ago, are traced in this. The equivalent focal length of the lens is 28mm. Aperture – f / 2. It’s hard to believe, but such a toy machine is even equipped with autofocus.

This is an insanely original and peculiar technological solution, as before, it is capable of printing pictures. Two types of films are compatible with it: rectangular CONFETTI and square illumination.

Fujifilm Instax Mini LiPlay also got a funny and even trendy addition. The device can record a music track for up to 10 seconds, then encode it into a QR code and print it also on a photo. Obviously, this can work like a musical postcard – another person only needs to decode the QR code using a smartphone and hear a musical message.

Instax Mini LiPlay also has a wireless module Bluetooth. It can easily connect to a smartphone for direct photo printing.

The built-in memory of the device can hold up to 45 pictures. Expand your photo storage capabilities easily with an external microSDHC flash memory card. It is not included in the delivery set, you need to purchase it separately. In terms of photos, the capacity of the card will approximately correspond to 850 files per 1GB, if the files contain only images, no sound.

The dimensions of the chamber are really 'toy' – only 8×4.2x12cm, weight – 255g.

Advantages

  • the very fact of the transition of the Instax series to digital technologies;
  • special form factor;
  • there is autofocus;
  • photo printing on two film formats;
  • music recording with QR encoding.

disadvantages

  • objective claims are not received due to the extreme specificity of the series.


Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.

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