By CNET.com
The category of interchangeable-lens cameras subsumes a variety of capabilities and designs, and mirrorless models cover a lot of ground. For instance, there are compact models designed for people dissatisfied with the image quality and performance of point-and-shoot models and who are looking for more. Then there are the models for advanced shooters who want the speed and photo quality of a dSLR without the bulk. And there are a host of models that slide along the continuum between the two. Here are some of our favorites across the board, available for less than $1,000.
Sony Alpha NEX-6
CNET rating: 4 stars out of 5 (Excellent)
The good: A fine shooting design, great photo and good video quality, and excellent performance number among the Sony Alpha NEX-6's strengths.
The bad: The camera lacks the option to save groups of custom settings, a real irritation, and we wish it had a neutral color preset. Plus Sony's wireless implementation is awkward, and the app system is annoying.
The cost: $648 to $748
The bottom line: The Sony Alpha NEX-6 delivers an as-yet-unbeatable package of image quality, performance, and design, even for its rather high price.
Fujifilm X-M1
CNET rating: 3.5 stars out of 5 (Very good)
The good: Thanks to the company's X-Trans sensor and good JPEG processing, the Fujifilm X-M1 delivers some of the best image quality we've seen for less than $1,000. The camera is also well-designed and attractive.
The bad: Poor video quality and a subpar Wi-Fi implementation prove to be annoying drawbacks.
The cost: $777.99 to $799
The bottom line: While it may not be the best overall camera available for less than $1,000, the Fujifilm X-M1 does deliver the best photo quality in its price class.
Olympus PEN E-PL3
CNET rating: 4 stars out of 5 (Excellent)
The good: With a broad feature set aimed at enthusiasts, tilting LCD, nicely implemented filters, good performance, and excellent raw photo quality, plus a price that's less burdensome than the E-P3's, there's a lot to appreciate about the Olympus PEN E-PL3.
The bad: The PEN E-PL3's video disappoints, and the camera's lack of a grip may prove annoying for some shooters.
The cost: $389 to $699.99
The bottom line: While it's not the best in any particular aspect, and you probably don't want to use it for video, the Olympus PEN E-PL3 offers an excellent balance of size, features, performance, and photo quality for the money.
Sony Alpha NEX-5R
CNET rating: 3.5 stars out of 5 (Very good)
The good: Sony Alpha NEX-5R delivers excellent photo quality, even in dimmer light, and provides more physical controls than some of its predecessors for a more streamlined shooting design.
The bad: The wireless connectivity and apps "ecosystem" implementations are far less than this camera deserves.
The cost: $498 to $649
The bottom line: It's a great camera choice for high-quality stills and a streamlined shooting design under $800, but the Sony Alpha NEX-5R falls short when it comes to sharing your shots online.
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