Digital SLR reviews: Compact system cameras explained
Compact system cameras have revolutionised digital photography, offering users the kind of picture quality that was once only the preserve of bulky digital SLRs. However, with an increasing number of manufacturers offering camera systems, it's worth considering the benefits of each and what advantages and disadvantages they have when compared to DSLRs.
Compact system cameras vs digital SLRs
Compact system cameras combine small mirrorless bodies with large image sensors.
For years now, if you've wanted the best possible picture quality then there's been no better choice than a DSLR. However, while DSLRs capture terrific shots, their bulky bodies and baffling range of buttons and dials can put off first-time owners.
The development of compact system cameras has meant there's a new option for photographers seeking excellent picture quality without the need for a heavy, complicated camera.
The key difference between a compact system camera and a DSLR is that there's no mirror within in compact system camera. This means the camera body can be significantly slimmer and lighter. It also means that you can't have an optical viewfinder on a compact system camera, though some models have electronic viewfinders instead.
Inside a compact system camera there's a large image sensor that's typically the same size as what you'll find in a DSLR - this is crucial for the resulting picture quality. A large image sensor allows you to capture excellent shots in challenging low light or to experiment with blurred backgrounds for artistic effects.
See how they compare: we put compact system cameras and DSLRs through an identical series of expert lab tests, so check our Which? reviews of the best digital SLRs and compact system cameras to find the best camera for you.
Advantages of a compact system camera
- Slimmer, lighter bodies than a DSLR
- Smaller lenses than DSLR equivalents
- Improved low light performance vs point-and-shoot cameras
- More manual controls than most pocket cameras
- Faster performance than most pocket cameras
- Often designed to be approachable for first-time system camera users
Disadvantages of a compact system camera
- Typically slower in operation than a DSLR
- Fewer buttons and dials than a DSLR
- Many models lack viewfinders
- Some models have no built-in flash
- With lens attached, often too bulky for a pocket
- Much smaller range of lenses than established DSLR ranges
Is a compact system camera right for you?
There are two likely types of user who may be considering a compact system camera, and whichever camp you fall into, there are a number of considerations to help you choose the best compact camera system for your particular needs.
Point-and-shoot camera users will find the straightforward design of some compact system cameras particularly approachable.
The 'step-up' user
Many people considering a compact system camera are those who have previously owned a digital point-and-shoot camera and are seeking a step-up in picture quality, with perhaps the possibility of exploring the advanced manual control features over time.
If this sounds like you, then the good news is there are some very portable models to consider. It's likely that a lack of complicated buttons and dials won't be an issue, so models like the Panasonic Lumix GF3, Olympus PEN Mini or Sony NEX-C3 and Sony NEX-5N are ideal.
These slim-bodied cameras have accessible automatic modes and fun shooting options, making them ideal for novice users.
The 'DSLR-familiar' user
The second group to whom compact system cameras may appeal are those who are familiar with using a DSLR but would like the same picture quality and functionality from a smaller camera body that's easier to carry around.
DSLR-owners may prefer advanced compact system cameras that offer features like viewfinders and control dials.
Anyone used to a DSLR may find themselves having to make compromises with a compact system camera. For example, the operating speed is rarely as quick as a DSLR, and only the top-end compact system camera models offer the same range of direct manual controls. DSLR-owners maybe averse to using the menu screen for selecting functions as opposed to switching dials.
Also, smaller compact system cameras tend not to have built-in viewfinders. Some will allow you to attach an external electronic viewfinder, but not all of them. DSLR-owners familiar with using an optical viewfinder may need to adjust to using an electronic viewfinder instead..
If you know your way around a DSLR, then there are still plenty of higher-spec system cameras to consider. The Panasonic Lumix G3 has a built-in viewfinder, a hot shoe for an additional flash, and plenty of buttons and dials for quick changes. The Samsung NX11 is another compact system camera that offers a scaled-down DSLR design. However, these models may be smaller than DSLRs, but the difference isn't overwhelming
Compact system camera brands
A large number of manufacturers have now tried their hand at producing compact system cameras, and there are a wide variety of systems to choose between, each with their own compatible lenses and accessories.
Nikon J1
Nikon 1 system
Nikon has joined the compact system cameras market with the Nikon 1 system.
The first two models to arrive are the Nikon J1 and Nikon V1 system cameras.
While the J1 has been developed as a simple point-and-shoot camera with interchangeable lenses, the pricier V1 camera is intended for enthusiasts, offering an electronic viewfinder to its features.
The Nikon 1 system offers exceptionally small camera bodies, but the downside is an image sensor that is roughly half the size of a DSLR's.
Olympus PEN E-P3
Micro-four-thirds, Panasonic and Olympus
The micro-four-thirds system was the first ever compact system camera to hit the market, in a joint development between Panasonic and Olympus. Micro-four-thirds lenses from either brand are useable with each other's camera systems.
While the micro-four-thirds sensor is smaller than a DSLR's, it's larger than the Nikon 1 sensor and significantly larger than a point-and-shoot camera's.
Olympus has pushed the retro-styled PEN cameras, such as the Olympus E-PL3 and Olympus E-P3. These are compact models with stripped down features.
Panasonic, meanwhile, has offered advanced models like the Lumix G3 as well as slimmed-down simplified models like the Lumix-GF3.
Sony NEX-C3
Sony NEX system
Sony's NEX cameras boast a DSLR-sized sensor in an exceptionally slim camera body.
If there's a downside to the NEX cameras, it's that their stripped-down features and lack of buttons force you to use the menu system frequently.
The NEX-C3 and NEX-5N are designed for users stepping up from a point-and-shoot, while the Sony NEX-7 offers advanced features like an electronic viewfinder.
Most of the NEX cameras do not feature built-in flashes, forcing you to attach an external flash unit.
Samsung NX11
Samsung NX system
Like Sony's system, Samsung's similarly-named NX system offers a DSLR-sized sensor and works with Samsung's iFunction lenses.
Samsung has developed particularly compact models like the NX200 for users seeking a particularly compact design.
For anyone seeking DSLR-like functionality, there are also larger models like the Samsung NX11.
The NX11 boasts a built-in electronic viewfinder, unlike the NX200.
Pentax Q
Pentax Q system
Pentax has also stepped into the fray with its pint-size Q camera system.
While the first Pentax Q camera is significantly smaller than much of the competition, it has an image sensor no larger than what you'll find in a compact bridge camera.
While the body of the Q and its lenses are extremely small, there are still a wide number of control dials and buttons on it's shrunk-down design.
Pentax K-01
Pentax K-01
The Pentax K-01 qualifies as a compact system camera due to its lack of a digital SLR-defining mirrorbox, however it has a sensor that matches the size of those found in many digital SLRs. And thanks to the lens mount on the front of its body, it's compatible with a broad array of existing Pentax K-mount digital SLR lenses.
When new system cameras launch there's usually a limit on the number of lenses available (unless you buy a lens adaptor), but at launch the Pentax K-01 already has a number of compatible new and second hand lenses, which is great if you're looking for a cheaper way of building up your arsenal of lenses.
