The best camera for low light is the one that has a larger camera sensor, period, and is paired with a camera lens that can gather as much light as it can. The full-frame camera sensors are much bigger than APS-C or Micro Four Thirds, so that’s that. Moreover, other factors like a higher usable ISO range, wider dynamic range, and its ability to lock focus on objects in near-dark environments make it a better camera for low light.
Below is the list of cameras that we think are worth considering if low-light photography and videos are in your plans. Every camera is selected for a different budget and use case.
1. The best camera for low light photography in 2025 is the Canon EOS R6 Mark II, which brings in significant improvements over the EOS R6. You get a better camera sensor and can shoot 4K in 60 frames, but the main highlight here is its stellar performance in low-light conditions. You also get an incredibly effective autofocus system and great stabilization. The camera isn’t that great with video but shines with its low-light performance for stills.
2. If you want a camera that can perform well in both pics and video when used in dark environments, then the Sony A7S III is for you. The camera is considered a gold standard when it comes to low-light shooting due to its advanced camera sensor and quality internals.
You get clear, noise-free images and video in any lighting conditions thanks to its 759 phase-detect AF points for super-fast focusing and a 12.1MP back-illuminated sensor designed to perform in night shooting. Easily the second-best camera for low light photography and videography this year, and it is rated second only because of lower-resolution images and a little higher price tag.
3. The Panasonic LUMIX S5 II is a great upper mid-range camera that can shoot exceptionally stunning and clean image files even in poor lighting. The cameras offer improvements over previous models with their new phase-detection autofocus system, which is more targeted towards low-light video shooting. You get solid 4k at up to 60 fps with 10-bit recording and a ton of recording formats. If you are looking for a camera more suited to photography, then the Nikon Z 6II is worth considering in this category.
4. Next is the Sony A6700 with its 26MP APS-C Exmor CMOS, which features better algorithms and decent internals for good low-light shooting. You also get Sony's AI-assisted subject detection and a good dynamic range of 100 to 32,000, which can be further expanded up to 102,400. A great lower midrange budget camera for those who want good low-light shooting performance from Sony without spending thousands.
5. And the last one is for those with an absolutely strict budget; the Nikon Z5 full-frame camera is a great option. The camera comes with ISO numbers of 100 to 51,200, which can be expanded to 102,400. The camera isn’t built for professional low-light photography, but it works great for entry-level work in low light, especially for events and low-light portraits.
Best Camera Lens for Low Light Performance
The year 2025 is the era of hybrid shooting, and your camera lens should be designed to help you achieve that. The SIRUI Saturn lens kit is designed to help the above cameras unlock their true potential and complement them with its T2.9 wide aperture for brighter pictures and videos.
Wrapping Up:
The best camera for low light photography can be the one for you from the above-stated list, but before you choose, assess your use case and budget. A camera lens kit, like SIRUI Saturn, is necessary to truly unlock the potential of these cameras.
