SLR or system camera – which is better? Before we jump into the fray (small spoiler: the answer is a clear “it depends”), let’s first clarify what is actually behind the camera types. Then we’ll take a look at the pros and cons, and I’ll also tell you which camera I personally prefer to use.
Three different camera types: System camera (Fujifilm X-T4), DSLR (Nikon D850), compact camera with fixed lens (Fujifilm X100V)
The basics: What is the difference between SLR and system cameras?
Essentially, cameras differ in two things: how the image is displayed in the viewfinder and how big the sensor is (if you want nerdy details on this, there’s more info here: Sensor sizes).
So that we know what we will have in the photo later, it would be helpful to see the image before the shutter is released, wouldn’t it? This is where the two types of viewfinder come into play: the optical viewfinder (OVF) and the electronic viewfinder (EVF). SLR cameras rely on the optical viewfinder, while system cameras use the electronic viewfinder. Let’s take a closer look.
OVF – Optical View Finder
In the classic SLR camera, the whole thing works via a mirror: the light falls on the mirror (1), is then passed on to a prism (2), and the prism ensures that the image appears upright and correct in the viewfinder. Only when we pull the trigger does the mirror flip up and the light falls directly onto the sensor (3).
Advantages of OVF: With SLR cameras, I look through the lens – I see exactly the image that is actually taken, without any delay. And hey, I don’t need electricity for it! Particularly practical in bright light, because the viewfinder image is clear and bright.
Disadvantages: DSLR cameras are often bulkier and heavier because the mirror takes up space and the technology is more complex.
EVF – Electronic View Finder (Electric View Finder)
System cameras, as the name suggests, do without a mirror. This makes them more compact and saves weight. Here, the light falls directly onto the sensor and is transmitted from there to a small monitor in the viewfinder or to the display.
Advantages of the EVF: The viewfinder shows me what the image will look like with the current settings. Great for checking the exposure precisely. And because I don’t have to fold a mirror, the camera can be completely silent – ideal if you don’t want to be noticed.
Disadvantages: Nothing works here without power. When the battery is empty – and unfortunately this happens a bit faster with system cameras – I can’t see anything. In addition, the electronic preview is sometimes slightly delayed.
Trigger: click-clack or silent?
When I press the shutter release button on an SLR camera, the mirror flips up and makes the typical “click”. System cameras, on the other hand, are almost completely silent as they do not have a mirror. Some still have a quiet mechanical shutter, but you can also mute it – then you really can’t hear anything.
Autofocus: Who is faster?
Here, the SLR camera still has a tiny advantage in terms of speed. However, the difference is so small that it is not significant in most situations. System cameras offer features such as face or even eye recognition, which makes focusing for portraits much easier.
Decision support: SLR or system camera?
Which is better? I now use both camera systems – depending on the situation. Here is a little guide to help you decide:
Why I choose a system camera:
- More compact and lighter
- Quiet and unobtrusive
- Flexible in everyday life and on the road
- Ideal for reportages or street photography when I want to remain inconspicuous and not carry too much.
Why I appreciate the SLR camera:
- Faster autofocus
- Longer battery life
- Larger and clearer viewfinder, especially in difficult lighting conditions
For portraits, studio shots or customer orders where I simply need a pinch more power and quality.
At the end of the day, everyone has their preferences and the best camera is the one you feel comfortable with. Try out what suits you best – the choice is yours!
