Updated: June 7, 2023
Want to own a camera with the best features, then you should go for a full-frame camera. Full-frame cameras come with large sensors, the most megapixels and lenses that are some of the best in the class. So, who are the people buying these kinds of cameras? Even, though the full-frame cameras are bulky, they are the preferred choice of the top most professional photographers.
The mid-range DSLR cameras sport an APS-C sized sensor with physical dimensions of the chip measuring 23.6 x 15.7mm. Comparatively, a full-frame sensor has large dimensions of 36 x 24mm, which is of the same size of a frame of a 35mm film, that’s why it is called as “full-frame”. It also offers a larger surface area of 2.5 x compared to the APS-C sized sensor.
Benefit of having a full-frame camera
Other than the above benefits, the full-frame camera allows for larger photo sites, which means higher pixels on the sensor. Higher pixels mean better light gathering ability, which enables better image quality especially at higher sensitivities. A lot of amateur photographers and photography enthusiasts can now enjoy the benefits of full-frame photography.
Sometime ago, professional photographers used to rely heavily on the full-frame DSLR, but now the cost of these have dropped drastically and even low-cost models have also started flooding the market, making it possible for amateurs and professionals to reap the benefits of full-frame photography.
However, we have to mention about full-frame mirror less camera, they are not DSLRs as such, but brands like Sony A7 series have cameras like the brilliant Alpha A7R III and Leica SL are making their mark in the full-frame DSLR market.
The following are some of the best full-frame DSLR camera of 2018 you can buy in the market now.
Best full frame camera
1 . Nikon D850
Short Specs:
Sensor: Full-frame CMOS
Megapixels: 45.4MP
Auto focus: 153-point AF, 99 cross-type
Screen Type: 3.2 inch tilt-angle touch screen, 2,359,000 dots
Maximum Continuous Shooting Speed: 7fps
Movies: 4k
User Level: Expert
Pros
Breathtaking results
Excellent performance
Cons
Live View AF could be faster
Needs improvement in Snap bridge
Even though the Nikon D850 is costly, it is the ultimate full-frame DSLR and one of the best and complete DSLR that is available in the market. The camera specifications are some of the best with 45.4MP full-frame sensor that delivers detailed and rich images that are brilliant and dynamic. The excellent high ISO noise performance and the advanced 153-point AF system are just excellent to beat. High build quality, 7fps burst shoot and easy to use makes the D850 one of the best full frame mirrorless you would want to shoot with.
2: Canon EOS Mark 5D Mark IV
The Canon EOS Mark 5D is rated as the complete DSLR
Specifications
Sensor: Full-frame CMOS
Megapixels: 30.4 MP
Autofocus: 61-point AF, 41 cross-type
Screen Type: 3.2-inch touch screen, 1,620,000 dots
Max continuous shooting speed: 7fps
Movies: 4K
User Level: Expert
Pros
Stunning performance
Advanced AF system
Connectivity options
excellent sensor performance
Cons
Expensive compared to counterparts
4k video options are limited
The EOS 5D Mark IV is an improved version of the Mark III on offer. These include a brilliant new 30.4 MP sensor that delivers sharp results, advanced 61 point AF system that is sophisticated, a pro-spec performance, good 4k video and ease of use. Combine these specs with an array of other features, which makes the EOS 5D Mark IV one of the best DSLR cameras now. The Mark IV has a lot of features and functionalities that are enough for any professional photographer. But, the D850 and the Sony 7RIII have better mega pixel rate, which gives them a slight edge over the Mark IV.
3: Nikon D810
The Nikon D810 once ruled the roost, but it has the features and functionalities that make it one of the best.
Specification
Sensor: Full-frame CMOS
Megapixels: 36.3MP
Autofocus: 51-point AF, 15 cross type
Screen type: 3.2 inch, 1,228,800 dots
Max continuous shooting speed: 5fps
Movies: 1080p
User Level: Expert
Pros
High pixel count
No anti-aliasing filter for better detail resolution
5fps shooting at full resolution
Cons
No built-in Wi-Fi
Huge file sizes
The D810 was the favorite of photography enthusiasts since it was launched, but now it has been replace by the D850. The D810 is still a good full-frame DSLR camera. The quality of images taken from the Nikon’s 36.3MP camera is brilliant and detailed. The 1200 shot battery life puts the 50.6MP, EOS 5DS in the shade. The camera copes pretty well in tricky focusing situations because of the 51 point AF and metering system. It has great handling and relatively modest dimensions making the D810 a great choice in the full-frame camera range. Photographers still prefer D810, one of the best full frame cameras because it is lightweight that makes it easier for taking landscape, macro photos and still life.
4: Canon EOS 5DS
The Canon EOS 5DS has set a standard for the DSLR photography. With the EOS 5DS, Canon has set a new benchmark for all the DSLR models coming in the market. It is still the king when you talk in terms of mega pixels.
Specification
Sensor: Full-frame CMOS
Megapixels: 50.6MP
Autofocus: 61-point AF, 41-cross type
Screen-type: 3.2 inch, 1, 040,000 dots
Max continuous shooting speed: 5fps
Movies: 1080p
User Level: Expert
Pros
Full frame sensor and good detailing
Excellent AF, exposure and white balance
Extensive features and accessories
Cons
Huge file size
Fast shutter speed or a sturdy tripod and a mirror lock-up is needed to extract the best out of the sensor
No built-in Wi-Fi
The 5Ds from the stables of Canon have played an important role in bridging the gap between professional and amateur photography. It gives enthusiasts an affordable solution to the full-frame shooting with a smaller and lighter camera to back-up the professional level requirements. With the 50.6 MP, the Canon 5DS offers you the highest resolution for any full-frame DSLR today. The quality of images taken is just superb with fantastic details, controlled noise and good dynamic range, making it ideal for studio photography and landscape. Even though this Canon has the resolution by its side, the performance is not that great. Moreover, there is no Wi-Fi and 4K video recording, which is an important and necessary feature in a DSLR. Huge image files require the need to have decent memory cards and a fast computer.
5: Nikon D750
At first look you may feel the D750 seems to offer the same sensor as the D610, but it has a redesigned sensor with a better image quality and a high ISO range. It offers better video capturing features, in-built Wi-Fi and a tilting screen.
Specification
Sensor: Full-frame CMOS
Megapixels: 24.3MP
Autofocus: 51-point AF, 15 cross type
Screen type: 3.2 inch tilting, 1, 228, 8000 dots
Max continuous shooting speed: 6.5fps
Movies: 1080p
User level: Amateur/ Expert
Pros
New 24MP sensor
High performance AF system
Tilt angle screen
Lightweight full-frame body
Cons
No AF-on button
Shutter speed is limited to 1/4000 sec
Slow AF in live view
The D750 is Nikon’s latest full-frame camera that is just above the D610 and below the Nikon D810 in the company’s range. At first sight, the D750 looks similar to the D610, but is a better version of the same since it appears to share the same sensor. Other features that make the D750 a notch better than the D610 is the tilting screen, improved video features and better image quality. These above features make it a worthwhile full-frame DSLR. It has given both the Nikon cameras and Canon cameras a real hard competition. Although, this camera is pitted by Nikon as one for the professionals, it still has all the qualities like low cost that attract a lot of photography enthusiasts.
6: Nikon D5
The Nikon D5 is a new entrant in the DSLR scene and has garnered a lot of attention. The D5 is good for professional photographers who will be happy with its burst shooting capability and low-light performance.
Specification
Sensor: Full-frame CMOS
Megapixels: 20.8MP
Autofocus: 173-point AF, 99 cross-type
Screen type: 3.2 inch, 2, 359, 000 dots
Max continuous shooting speed: 12fps
Movies: 4K
User Level: Expert
Pros
High specs auto-focus system
Huge sensitivity range
Durable build
Cons
4K recording is limited to 3 minutes
vertical grip control arrangement doesn’t match with the horizontal grip
Heavy
Nikon has released this new DSLR as a replacement to the D45, the company’s flagship DSLR that was primarily aimed at the professional photojournalists and sports photographers. The new D5 doesn’t disappoint. With 20.8 mega pixels, the D5 can shoot at 12fps of continuous shooting. The extended ISO range of ISO 3,280,000 was never seen before in a camera. The AF 173 points, the sophistication, and the speed of the AF are impressive. The D5 however can shoot 4k video for three minutes only, but that aside the D5 is a substantially good camera that is used by professionals all over the world.
7: Canon EOS -1D X Mark II
Canon EOS-1D X Mark II is the fastest EOS that is capable of up to 14fps full resolution. It is slightly better than the Nikon D5 for its image quality.
Specification
Sensor: Full-frame CMOS
Megapixels: 20.2 MP
Autofocus: 61-point AF, 41 cross-type
Screen-type: 3.2 inch, 1,620,000 dots
Max Continuous shooting speed: 14fps
Movies: 4K
User Level: Expert
Pros
Excellent control layout and good handling
4K recording at 60fps
Brilliant auto-focus system
Cons
Very small increase in resolution over the 1D X
Limited use of touch screen technology
Video mode needs a dedicated quick menu
The Canon EOS -1D x Mark II is a replacement for not only the 1DX, but also for the EOS-1D C pro video camera. The EOS-1D X Mark II and the Nikon D5 are quite similar in features and your choice of the brand will depend on your lens system. With the EOS-1D X Mark II, Canon has developed a powerful and an all-rounder camera that is suitable for news and even professional sports photographers, thanks to the super fast 14fps burst shooting. It may not have the sensitivity range of the Nikon D5, but is capable of shooting excellent images in low-light within its sensitivity range. This is a workhorse camera for professional photographers.
8: Sony Alpha A99 II
Sony has made its presence felt in the DSLR market by launching the A-mount series of full-frame DSLR’s, which is rather impressive. Released after four years from the original a99 this one has several technological advances that are worth mentioning.
Specification
Sensor: Full-frame CMOS
Megapixels: 42.2MP
Autofocus: 399-point AF, 79 cross-type
Screen-type: 3.0 inch vari-angle display, 1,228,800 dots
Max continuous shooting speed: 12fps
Movies: 4K
User Level: Enthusiast/Expert
Pros
All-round features
Superb overall image quality
Fast focusing system
Seamless LCD/EVF use
Flexible LCD screen
Cons
short battery life
sometimes sluggish
no touch screen
no in-camera raw processing
Sony has enjoyed great success with their full-time Alpha-branded compact system cameras, but with the A 99 II, it has continued their relationship with the professional DSLRs, like the SLT system. The latest series has a few changes from the previous models and has successfully catered to the requirements of all types of users. The high resolution camera with 42.2MP sensor is the greatest asset for this camera. The 4k quality is also very good. Most of the features of the A99 II are great including handling. With the arrival of the Alpha A9, which is a full-frame mirror less camera, the focus now has shifted away from the A 99 II.
9: Canon EOS 6D Mark II
Canon has introduced this revamped DSLR focusing on the enthusiasts. It is a versatile and has better features than the EOS 6D.
Specification
Sensor: Full-frame CMOS
Megapixels: 26.2 MP
Autofocus: 45-point AF, all cross-type
Screen type: 3.0 inch vari-angle touch screen, 1,040,000 dots
Max continuous shooting speed: 6.5fps
Movies: 1080p
User Level: Amateur/ Expert
Pros
Excellent live view focusing
comfortable grip
refined touch screen controls
useful vari-angle display
connectivity options
Cons
98% viewfinder coverage
Absence of 4k a big disappointment
Limited AF coverage
poor dynamic range
No USB 3.0
This Canon EOS 6D Mark II has some significant improvements over its predecessor EOS 6D with a lot of features including the fresh sensor, fast processor, best AF system and a strong burst rate. It is a better and versatile camera compared to the EOS 6D, but with some issues. These small issues spoils the otherwise good full-frame DSLR. Cannon lovers who are looking to make a move to the full-frame photography will be happy, but others may be disappointed a bit.
10: Sony Alpha a9
Mirrorless cameras have made strong inroads into the camera scene with some good resolution and high quality video.
Specification
Sensor: Full-frame stacked CMOS
Megapixels: 24.2
Autofocus: 693 phase detection AF points over 93% frame coverage
Max continuous shooting speed: up to 20fps continuous shooting speed
Pros
Fastest full-frame with 20 fps
Good battery life
Good AF
Cons
Low mega pixels
The Sony alpha a9 has blazing fast 20fps with an advanced 693 point phase detection auto-focus. It outperforms some of the other models from its competitors. This camera is great for sports and action photography. Lack of lenses has affected the demand for this camera if you look at the options available in the market today. Even though the a9 has some drawbacks, it has still emerged as a strong contender of the top camera category.
Photo : bhphotovideo
