The Best DSLR Cameras of 2026

Nikon's best-ever APS-C DSLR might be the best crop-sensor camera we've ever tested. With plenty of advanced features, and 10-fps continuous bursts, Nikon's pulled out the stops in the D500, making this an exceptional pro DSLR. If you need speed (whether that's AF or burst speed), the D500 delivers for less than a third the price of the flagship D5. This Nikon does everything its big sister can manage, but behind its mirror is a sensor that's the smaller APS-C size. What that nets you is blisteringly fast burst shooting, 4K video abilities, and world-class weathersealing all in a condensed package.

Compared to previous models, the Mark III has the benefit of faster shot-to-shot times, dramatically improved autofocus, superb metering, and substantial upgrades to its video performance. It handles better, shoots faster, offers more control, and is better suited to all kinds of still and video applications. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a professional whose livelihood depends upon a camera, this is a solid choice.

For stills photographers who want a dependable, powerful, and flexible camera, it's hard to beat the Nikon D810. It takes incredible shots, works with almost any Nikon lens from the past 50 years, and is fast enough for all but the most demanding news and sports work. It's a superb camera in every way, and one of the best Nikon DSLRs we've tested. If you're looking to step up your skills, the D810 should be on your radar.

With the 1D X, Canon has created a superb, professional DSLR that’s as capable as it is versatile. It’s a multimedia powerhouse that’s firmly entrenched in professional territory, and this shows in the photos and videos we shot with it. It produces beautiful images, and whether you shoot stills or video, studio models or wildlife, the 1D X has features to make your job easier. It isn’t cheap, but it’s well worth the price of admission.

The Nikon D4, launched back in 2012, was a revolutionary camera that combined fast burst shooting, superb ergonomics and control, and professional video options. As it has done with previous generations of pro DSLRs, Nikon followed it up with a subtle refresh in the D4S, this time touting greater dynamic range, improved continuous shooting speed with autofocus, and a ludicrous top ISO of 409,600.