If you like to shoot outdoors or take action photos, then it’s important that you protect your gear.
Finding the best weather-sealed camera can be handy no matter what type of photography you do. Whether it’s nature, travel, adventure or sports. Even photographers taking street shots in cold climates can benefit from the extra security of a weather-sealed camera body.
That’s why we put together this list of the best weather-sealed cameras available today.
They are in order of the cameras which scored highest on our site. You can also check out our best weather-sealed DSLR cameras or the best budget weather sealed cameras which all are under $1000 by filtering our database.
Here are the 10 best weather sealed cameras rated by CameraReviews:
Best Sony Mirrorless
Sony a1
- Large sensor captures tons of detail
- High frame rate of 30 fps
- Eye tracking (human, animal, and bird)
- Easy customization
- Silent shooting for quiet situations
- Incredible 8K/30p Ultra HD video
Best Canon Mirrorless
Canon EOS R3
- A high frame rate of 30 fps
- Less noise with BSI stacked sensor
- 8 stops of image stabilization
- 6K / 60p RAW video
- 620-shot battery life
Best for Video
Canon EOS R5 C
- The photo/video switch allows you to easily switch between shooting modes
- 5-axis In-camera image stabilization
- Compact and lightweight
- Unlimited video recording due to built-in fan preventing overheating
- Reduced video sizes with Cinema RAW Light modes
Best Autofocus
Sony a7R IV
- Super high-resolution sensor
- Stunningly sharp image quality
- Excellent face and eye detection AF
- Large, high-resolution EVF
- Sharp 4K Ultra HD video
- Weather sealing to protect from elements
Highly Recommended
Canon EOS R5
- Large 45 MP sensor
- High frame rate of 20 fps
- In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS)
- Body, face, eye, and animal tracking
- 8K/30p Ultra HD video
Highly Recommended
Nikon Z7 II
- High-resolution image sensor
- Rapid 1/8000 s shutter speed
- Excellent AF system
- Dual memory card slots
- Great 4K video at 60 fps
Best for Low Light
Nikon Z6 II
- Excellent low-light focusing
- Lightweight and portable
- Superb low-light dynamic range
- Dual memory card slots
Best Panasonic Choice
Panasonic Lumix DC-S1R
- Powerful 47 MP image sensor
- Fantastic AF performance in low light
- 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization
- 4K video at 60 fps
- No time limit with video recording
Highly Recommended
Sony a9 II
- Impressive 20 fps continuous shooting
- Lightning-fast autofocus
- Improved ergonomics
- Great file transferring speeds
- 5-axis in-body image stabilization to counter camera shake
Highly Recommended
Sony a7R III
- Excellent image resolution
- Wide ISO range with 50 ISO setting
- Sophisticated and reliable AF system
- Dual card slot for more capacity
- Great silent shooting mode for sensitive situations
10 Best Weather-Sealed Cameras Specs and Scores
As you’ve already seen, our no1 choice is the Sony a1, but there are many other great options depending on your budget and preferences.
Let’s take a closer look at our favourite weather-sealed camera choices in 2023.
1. Sony a1
Camera Type |  Mirrorless |
|---|---|
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 50.1 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Full Frame |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 24 x 35.9 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 30 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 759 |
Pros
- Large sensor captures tons of detail
- High frame rate of 30 fps
- Eye tracking (human, animal, and bird)
- Easy customization
- Silent shooting for quiet situations
- Incredible 8K/30p Ultra HD video
Cons
- Expensive
- Highest frame rates only for JPEG, HEIF, and lossy compressed RAW files
- Eye tracking only selected manually
- Small rear LCD screen
- No GPS
The Sony a1 is a powerhouse mirrorless camera. It’s a favourite of outdoor and wildlife photographers (including CameraReviews own Nick Dale!) so it’s no surprise it’s the top-scoring weather-sealed camera option in 2022.
2. Canon EOS R3
Camera Type | Mirrorless |
|---|---|
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | Full Frame |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 24 x 36 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 30 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 1,053 |
Pros
- A high frame rate of 30 fps
- Less noise with BSI stacked sensor
- 8 stops of image stabilization
- 6K / 60p RAW video
- 620-shot battery life
Cons
- Relatively expensive
- Low-resolution for some photographers
- No 8K video
- Slowed frame rate with an SD card or low battery
3. Canon EOS R5 C
Camera Type | Mirrorless |
|---|---|
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 45 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | Full Frame |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 24 x 36 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 20 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 1,053 |
Pros
- The photo/video switch allows you to easily switch between shooting modes
- 5-axis In-camera image stabilization
- Compact and lightweight
- Unlimited video recording due to built-in fan preventing overheating
- Reduced video sizes with Cinema RAW Light modes
Cons
- Expensive
- Limited native lens compatibility
- Continuous AF only covers 80% of the image sensor in video mode
- Bigger than the original EOS R5
- Must use an external battery source for the fastest shooting speeds
4. Sony a7R IV
Camera Type | Mirrorless |
|---|---|
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 61.2 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | Full Frame |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 23.8 x 35.7 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 10 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 425 |
Pros
- Super high-resolution sensor
- Stunningly sharp image quality
- Excellent face and eye detection AF
- Large, high-resolution EVF
- Sharp 4K Ultra HD video
- Weather sealing to protect from elements
Cons
- Long write times
- Poor AF at high frame rates
- No pixel-shift motion compensation
- Complicated menus
- Limited, laggy touchscreen functionality
5. Canon EOS R5
Camera Type | Mirrorless |
|---|---|
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 45 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | Full Frame |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 23.9 x 35.9 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 20 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 1,053 |
Pros
- Large 45 MP sensor
- High frame rate of 20 fps
- In-Body Image Stabilization (IBIS)
- Body, face, eye, and animal tracking
- 8K/30p Ultra HD video
Cons
- Expensive
- Complicated autofocus setup
- Noise reduction applied to RAW files
- Hard to customize
- Overheats shooting video
6. Nikon Z7 II
Camera Type | Mirrorless |
|---|---|
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 45.75 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | Full Frame |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 23.9 x 35.9 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 10 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 439 |
Pros
- High-resolution image sensor
- Rapid 1/8000 s shutter speed
- Excellent AF system
- Dual memory card slots
- Great 4K video at 60 fps
Cons
- Disappointing battery life of 420 shots
- Tilt screen has limited flexibility
- Limited lens range
- Slow frame rate of 10 fps in continuous shooting speed
7. Nikon Z6 II
Camera Type | Mirrorless |
|---|---|
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 24.5 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | Full Frame |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 35.9 x 23.9 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 14 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 273 |
Pros
- Excellent low-light focusing
- Lightweight and portable
- Superb low-light dynamic range
- Dual memory card slots
Cons
- Autofocus can be slow
- Relatively short battery life
- Lower MP count than main competitors
- Needs more customizable buttons
8. Panasonic Lumix DC-S1R
Camera Type | Mirrorless |
|---|---|
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 47.3 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | Full Frame |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 24 x 36 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 9 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 225 |
Pros
- Powerful 47 MP image sensor
- Fantastic AF performance in low light
- 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization
- 4K video at 60 fps
- No time limit with video recording
Cons
- Pricey compared to competitors
- Heavy camera body
- Disappointing battery life
- 4K video is cropped
9. Sony a9 II
Camera Type | Mirrorless |
|---|---|
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 47.3 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | Full Frame |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 24 x 36 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 9 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 225 |
Pros
- Powerful 47 MP image sensor
- Fantastic AF performance in low light
- 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization
- 4K video at 60 fps
- No time limit with video recording
Cons
- Pricey compared to competitors
- Heavy camera body
- Disappointing battery life
- 4K video is cropped
10. Sony a7r III
Camera Type | Mirrorless |
|---|---|
Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 42.4 MP |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. | Full Frame |
Sensor Size The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture. | 24 x 35.9 mm |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 10 fps |
Autofocus Points Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings. | 425 |
Pros
- Excellent image resolution
- Wide ISO range with 50 ISO setting
- Sophisticated and reliable AF system
- Dual card slot for more capacity
- Great silent shooting mode for sensitive situations
Cons
- No video until image buffer is clear
- Long and complicated menu system
- Slow 10 fps maximum burst
- 4K video is not as smooth compared to newer camera models
We have a full Sony a7R III review if you are interested in finding out more!
What are Weather Sealed Cameras?
Weather-sealed cameras are more resilient to the elements. There currently is no official standard that defines what exactly weather sealed is. But, if a camera is weather sealed you can expect some level of protection from moisture and dust.
This process usually involves sealing all the camera joints with rubber. This makes the camera more water-resistant but not waterproof – so don’t plan on taking any dive shots!
As long you avoid prolonged exposure in wet conditions, you will still be able to take photos without issues.
Our Verdict
If you like shooting in wintery weather, or in a dust cloud at the side of a sports field, it’s important your camera is up to the job. A weather-sealed camera gives you more freedom, but it also should have the right specs for the job!
Now you have our list of recommendations it’s time to choose the best weather-sealed camera option for you.
Before you invest, it’s important to remember that there is no official standard that defines what exactly ‘weather sealed’ is.
We recommend checking each camera manufacturers own definition of what weather sealed means to them before you make a final decision.
Sony a1
An outstanding pro mirrorless camera for any photographer seeking to up their game!
We hope our list has helped you find your perfect camera, no matter the weather!!
Please share your experience with weather-sealed cameras, or any recommendations not already on our list!
