What is the best camera for astrophotography?
1. Canon EOS 6D Mark II
We think the best camera for astrophotography is the Canon EOS 6D Mark II. This is the best choice for professionals and those who are serious about their photography hobby.
The Canon EOS 6D Mark II is a camera that you can use in different conditions. Unlike other cameras that lock in hot and cold conditions, its operating temperature ranges from 0°C to 40°C. It has a 45-point cross-type AF system that makes it easy to find subjects. Coming to your sensor, you get a 26.2 MP full-frame CMOS sensor paired with the DIGIC 7 image processor. You’ll notice the colors are bright and vibrant. You’ll also get great results if you’re using a low or slightly high ISO. It has an ISO range of 100 to 40,000. But to get the best results for your astrophotography, you should keep the ISO as low as possible to get the least amount of noise. It is designed with a 3.0 inch vari-angle LCD touch screen that can let you easily change what you want in your setup.
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2. Nikon D3500 DX-Format DSLR
If you want to get the best budget camera for astrophotography, check out the Nikon D3500’s DX-format DSLR.
It’s a decent camera that can be enjoyed not only by budding photographers, but even people who just want to invest in a backup camera. The Nikon D3500 is still used by professionals despite being classified as an entry-level camera. It features a 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor paired with an EPEED 4 image processor that delivers stunning results. It performs well at low ISO, making it a great choice for anyone looking to do astrophotography. You can also transfer images via Bluetooth. If you plan on using the lowest ISO for your astrophotography, you will notice sharp images with vivid colors, making this the top choice for many. However, we don’t suggest that you adjust your ISO taking into account the noise it makes at the higher end of the ISO. In normal situations this camera is also useful as it is easy to use as it is designed for beginner photographers. It also has 11 autofocus points spread across the frame. And for anyone looking for a camera for their VLOG, this is also convenient. What’s not to like? For one, the battery drains quickly. Also, you don’t have a dedicated ISO button that makes it easy to adjust the ISO while shooting. But overall it is the best budget camera for astrophotography considering the results and the build.
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3. Canon EOS 90D
The Canon EOS 90D is a great choice for photographers and videographers. It comes with powerful specs that can produce great photos and videos.
The 32.5-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor and 45-point cross-type AF make it a favorite not only for low-light shooters, but other types of photographers as well. As for recording videos, it can capture 4K videos without cropping. Also, you can transfer your files wirelessly via Bluetooth or WiFi. The controls are also easy to understand, especially when you blend the LCD touchscreen. It is a candidate for the best camera for astrophotography given the specs we mentioned.
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4. Pentax KP 24.32 weatherproof ultra-compact DSLR
The Pentax KP is often overlooked by many photographers. However, if you take a closer look, you’ll notice that this is a great camera that you should seriously consider if you’re into astrophotography.
For starters, let’s take a look at its strengths. First, it comes with a decent 24MP APS-C image sensor paired with a 27-point AF system. It also has a weatherproof design that makes it suitable for outdoor activities in case you are the type that faces unpredictable weather conditions during astrophotography. If you’re seriously considering astrophotography as a hobby, this is a camera that won’t disappoint. Many consider this camera to be the best camera for astrophotography simply because Pentax is not as popular as other brands like Nikon and Canon. But if you want to be transparent about the Pentax KP, the worst part is the short battery life. You would need an extra battery, especially when you always need to use lamp mode when shooting astrophotography.
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5. Nikon D7500 20.9MP DSLR Camera
The Nikon D7500 is a camera that comes in handy in many situations. It has a decent ISO range, a powerful 20.9MP sensor, and a tilting LCD screen with touchscreen functionality.
When it comes to its AF system, you get a 51-point AF system that can track subjects well in most situations. However, if you are going to use it for astrophotography, you will realize how effective this camera is in low light situations. You can use Bulb mode for long exposures and get spectacular results, especially when using the lowest ISO. It also doesn’t disappoint under normal circumstances when you need to take pictures of human and animal subjects and even landscapes in the morning. Some would even consider it your best bet for the best camera for astrophotography. The only minor downside to its design is the single-card slot design, as well as the touchscreen functionality, which tends to lag behind.
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6. Nikon D750 FX Format DSLR Camera Body
The Nikon D750 can be a good choice if you are trying to reduce the cost of your astrophotography hobby.
You can stick with that “old” DSLR and always get great results. With a 24.3 MP CMOS image sensor and EXPEED 4 image sensor, you still get decent results. Even at today’s standard, it’s still a cut above other cameras when it comes to photography. When it was released in 2014, many professional photographers loved it because of its waterproof design, lightweight construction, and powerful specs that can shoot Full HD videos and great photos. It also comes with a tilting LCD screen, which makes it easy to manipulate the camera at difficult angles when doing astrophotography. Although it is a relatively old DSLR, you can still consider it one of the best options for astrophotography, if not the best camera for astrophotography. If you’ve used the D800, some of our testers have found that the D750 produces smoother results, which can be a deciding factor for some users.
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7. Sony a7R II full-frame mirrorless camera
Many people love mirrorless cameras because of their lightweight and convenient design. But is that all? Sony’s A7R II full-frame mirrorless camera proves there’s so much more to these cameras. It comes with a powerful 42.4MP full-frame sensor that can also record 4K videos.
It can also connect to your smartphone via WIFI and NFC using the app. One of the reasons why it is preferred by professional photographers is for its performance in different scenarios. If you like astrophotography, this full-frame mirrorless camera won’t disappoint. It even has built-in 5-axis stabilization that allows the camera to withstand small wind tremors or even your shaky hands if you don’t have a tripod. There are, however, some design flaws that you’ll need to reconsider if you’re serious about finding the best camera for astrophotography. For starters, it doesn’t have a touchscreen for its menus, which is unusual for a relatively new camera. Then it just comes with a single-slot SD card reader. While for some these things are forgivable, the worst thing for us is the fact that the battery doesn’t last very long.
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8. Sony a7 III (ILCE M3K/B) Full Frame Mirrorless
The Sony A7 III is an entry-level full-frame camera that can come in handy as a good astrophotography rig. Sony removed the A7 III from the A9 model.
Although it’s a toned down version of the A9, it’s still a top contender for the best camera for astrophotography. For one, it has a decent 24.2MP BSI full-frame image sensor along with an excellent ISO range. It has an ISO range of 50-204,800, giving you the flexibility you need when shooting in the dark. Also, if you plan on using the camera for situations other than astrophotography, it’s still a great deal. It has a 693 phase detection AF system that makes it easy to track your subject. One thing you might not like is the fact that it doesn’t have a true vari-angle LCD screen.
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9. Canon EOS M50 Mark II
If you’ve ever tried using DSLRs for your astrophotography sessions, you’ll find the Canon EOS M50 Mark II a breath of fresh air.
It’s a lightweight choice compared to other Canon and non-Canon DSLRs. However, he packs a punch. It’s a favorite of not only photographers but vloggers as well, thanks to its 4K video capability. It comes with a flip-up screen, not to mention excellent autofocus. The sensor’s resolution is 24MP, which isn’t exactly the most impressive thing it can do when it comes to astrophotography. Unfortunately, it has some drawbacks, such as the lack of stabilization in the body. Even if you’re going to use a tripod, you’ll still want something that can give you steady shots.
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10. Pentax K-70 waterproof DSLR
The Pentax K-70 is another DSLR commonly overlooked by many photographers, including serious hobbyists.
If you’re the type of photographer looking for the best value, this might be a good choice for you. It comes with a 24 MP APS C AA filterless CMOS sensor with an ISO range of 100 to 204800. This is a weatherproof camera that also comes with a vibration reduction feature that can come in handy if it’s a little windy. out there. Also, you can transfer your files via WiFi and APP. While it produces low noise even in its mid-ISO range, it does have a few things you might not like. Some complained about the camera’s durability. Many users have reported problems that appear after months of regular use.
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Final considerations
Astrophotography can be fun. However, you will need the right camera to get the job done. It’s important to find a camera that works well in low-light conditions. And if you’re overwhelmed with options, check out the pros and cons to see which fits your preferences and budget.