Hello Lykkers! Have you ever stood in front of a wall of cameras, scratching your head and wondering, “Which one should I buy?” Yeah, we’ve been there too.

With so many choices—DSLRs, mirrorless, all-in-ones—it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back! In this guide, we’ll walk through the key differences, pros, and cons of each type of camera in a clear, friendly, and super practical way. Let’s find the perfect one for us, together!

What’s a DSLR, and Why Do People Still Love It?

When we think of a “professional camera,” the first thing that pops into our minds is probably a DSLR. Short for Digital Single-Lens Reflex, this classic model uses a mirror system to reflect light from the lens up into an optical viewfinder. That means what we see is what we get—literally.

Why it’s still great:

- Battery life is amazing. Because it doesn’t rely on a digital screen for previewing shots, it consumes less power. This makes DSLRs perfect for long trips or all-day events.

- So many lenses and accessories! Since DSLRs have been around for a long time, brands like Canon and Nikon have built massive ecosystems of compatible lenses—from ultra-wide to super zoom. Plus, third-party brands offer budget-friendly gear like lens hoods, cages, and spare batteries.

- Pre-loved options galore. If we’re open to second-hand models, there’s a treasure trove of affordable DSLRs out there.

What to watch out for:

- Heavier and bulkier. The internal mirror and prism system adds size and weight. Carrying it all day? Not the most fun.

DSLRs remain a solid option if we want great image quality, strong battery life, and don’t mind a bit of extra weight—especially if we’re hunting for a bargain.

Understanding DSLR vs. Mirrorless Cameras

Video by Sony Electronics

Mirrorless Cameras: Lightweight and Loaded with Tech

Mirrorless cameras, as the name suggests, skip the mirror. Light hits the image sensor directly and the preview appears on an electronic screen or viewfinder. This makes the camera body much smaller and lighter.

Why we love them:

- Portability is a game changer. These are perfect for travel, casual outings, or street photography—anywhere we need something compact.

- Tech-savvy features built-in. New models include awesome tools like AI eye tracking, real-time previews, and in-body stabilization.

Things to keep in mind:

- Battery life is shorter. The always-on screen drains power faster. We’ll want to carry a few spare batteries—and they’re not always cheap. For example, a Canon battery can cost NT$3000!

- Lens prices can surprise us. Mirrorless lenses often cost more than similar DSLR lenses. Adapters can help, but add hassle.

Still, if we want the latest tech and a lightweight build, mirrorless is definitely worth a look.

All-in-One Cameras: The Handy Everyday Hero

Also known as bridge cameras, these look like DSLRs but come with a fixed lens that covers a wide zoom range—from wide angle to telephoto.

Why they’re great for us:

- All-in-one design. We don’t have to carry multiple lenses—just one camera for everything.

- Budget-friendly. They’re generally more affordable than DSLRs or mirrorless models.

- Easy to use. These are fantastic if we’re moving up from phone photography.

Limitations to note:

- Lower low-light quality. Smaller sensors don’t perform as well in dark conditions.

- No interchangeable lenses. That limits creativity if we want to explore more advanced setups.

Think of it as a camera that’s almost like a high-end phone with more control. Great for everyday use!

So, Which Camera Should We Pick?

Quick answer: mirrorless.

Why? It’s lighter, more compact, and packed with features. Plus, camera companies are focusing on this format—meaning better future support and updates.

Want something even more portable? A bridge camera might be perfect, especially if we shoot lots of video or vlogs.

On a tight budget? Consider a second-hand DSLR. It may not be the latest, but it can still take stunning shots for a much lower price. Sites like DCView, Shopee, and local FB groups are full of great deals.

Final Thoughts for Our Lykkers

Cameras might look complicated, but choosing the right one is all about understanding our own needs. Whether we want to capture everyday memories or create our next visual masterpiece, there’s a perfect camera out there waiting for us.

Let’s keep learning, experimenting, and sharing.

Got questions? Camera tips? Or just wanna show off your favorite shot? Drop them in the comments—we’re all ears, Lykkers!

Happy shooting, and see you through the lens!