Updated Nov 22

Cameras that used to cost around $2000 are increasingly creeping up to the $2500 mark, but you can still get some really impressive cameras at this level if your budget will stretch that far. They range from high-end, high-speed Micro Four Thirds and APS-C cameras through to some remarkably capable mid-range full-frame models. Here are the current sub-$2500 options, from which we’ve picked the one we think is best.

What we like:

  • Simple, powerful AF for stills
  • Fast 40fps shooting with continuous AF
  • Excellent battery life

What we don’t:

  • AF less reliable in video mode
  • SD cards limit burst duration
  • E-shutter can distort fast-moving subject

The Canon EOS R6 II is a standout camera in a very competitive class. Its full-frame sensor helps deliver excellent image quality in a wide range of circumstances, while its easy-to-use, highly effective autofocus system and well-sorted ergonomics make it a pleasure to shoot with.

Its video autofocus isn’t as reliable as it is in stills (we’d point you towards the Sony a7 IV if you want the most dependable hybrid autofocus), but it’s still a very capable video camera. There’s a risk of rolling shutter distortion and a reduction in dynamic range at its fastest shooting speeds, but its combination of image quality, video capabilities and 40 frame-per-second shooting with electronic shutter makes the R6 II stand out as the most capable all-rounder in its class.

Read more about the Canon EOS R6 Mark II

Richard Butler

Also available:

These are the other models we considered when selecting our recommendation:

Why should you trust us?

Our Buying Guides are based on extensive use and testing of the cameras included. We only recommend cameras once we know how they compare to their peers in a variety of shooting situations. All selections are made solely by our editorial and video teams and are the models we’d buy or recommend to friends and family. We gain no financial advantage from recommending one camera over another, either as individuals or as a business.