The primary difference between a mirror and a mirrorless camera lies in the presence (or absence) of a mirror system used to reflect light into the optical viewfinder.
Mirror vs. Mirrorless: Key Differences
To better understand the distinction, let's break down the key differences between these two camera types:
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Mirror System:
- Mirror Cameras (DSLRs): Utilize a mirror to reflect light from the lens to the optical viewfinder, allowing the photographer to see the exact image that will be captured. When the shutter button is pressed, the mirror flips up, allowing light to hit the sensor and take the picture.
- Mirrorless Cameras: As the name suggests, these cameras do not have a mirror. Light passes directly through the lens onto the image sensor. The image is then displayed on either an electronic viewfinder (EVF) or the rear LCD screen.
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Viewfinder:
- Mirror Cameras (DSLRs): Typically use an optical viewfinder (OVF), which provides a direct, real-time view of the scene through the lens.
- Mirrorless Cameras: Commonly use an electronic viewfinder (EVF). This is a small display that shows a digital representation of the scene, often including exposure information and other settings. Some mirrorless cameras also rely solely on the rear LCD screen for composing images.
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Size and Weight:
- Mirror Cameras (DSLRs): Tend to be larger and heavier due to the mirror box and pentaprism (or pentamirror) assembly.
- Mirrorless Cameras: Generally smaller and lighter as a result of the removal of the mirror mechanism. This makes them more portable and convenient for travel or everyday use.
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Autofocus:
- Mirror Cameras (DSLRs): Often utilize a dedicated autofocus system separate from the main image sensor, particularly when using the optical viewfinder.
- Mirrorless Cameras: Typically use on-sensor autofocus, meaning the autofocus system is integrated directly into the image sensor. This often results in faster and more accurate autofocus, especially in video mode and when using live view.
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Image Preview:
- Mirror Cameras (DSLRs): The optical viewfinder provides a "true" view of the scene, but it doesn't always accurately reflect the final exposure settings.
- Mirrorless Cameras: The electronic viewfinder previews the image with the selected exposure settings applied. This "what you see is what you get" (WYSIWYG) approach can be very helpful for beginners and experienced photographers alike.
Summary Table:
| Feature | Mirror Camera (DSLR) | Mirrorless Camera |
|---|---|---|
| Mirror System | Yes | No |
| Viewfinder | Optical (OVF) | Electronic (EVF) or LCD |
| Size & Weight | Larger, Heavier | Smaller, Lighter |
| Autofocus | Dedicated System | On-Sensor |
| Image Preview | Direct View | WYSIWYG (EVF) |
In Conclusion
The key difference is that DSLRs use a mirror to reflect light to the viewfinder, while mirrorless cameras send light directly to the sensor, using an electronic viewfinder or rear LCD screen instead. This fundamental difference impacts size, weight, and several functional aspects of the camera.
