For a long time full frame DSLRs—those with image sensors as large as a 35mm film frame—were only for pros and well-heeled shutterbugs. Most folks buy a camera with an APS-C image sensor, a little less than half the size of full frame in terms of surface area. But there are advantages to getting a camera with a bigger sensor—including a larger, brighter viewfinder and the ability to create an extremely shallow depth of field with wide-aperture lenses. You'll still have to part with a good chunk of change to get an entry-level full frame model like the Canon EOS 6D or the Nikon D610, but there's no doubt that costs are dropping, making these cameras available to more and more photographers.
Entry-Level and Pro Choices
The aforementioned bodies start at around $1,500, but can be had for less if you catch a sale. They don't pack all of the pro features that you'll find in midrange cameras like the Canon EOS 5D Mark III, the 36-megapixel Nikon D810, and the Sony Alpha 99, all of which sell for more. These cameras feature more advanced autofocus systems, better weather sealing, and more durable designs so they can withhold the rigors of frequent use by working professionals.
Pentax has a lone full frame SLR model. The K-1 falls outside our top ten, but is a solid option for Pentax owners in want of a high-resolution, full frame model, and it comes in at a price that's under $2,000.
If you're a sports shooter or a photojournalist, instant and accurate focus, fast burst shooting, and tank-like durability are required. Canon and Nikon offer pro bodies that are up to the task. Both companies have new relatively new models—the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II and the Nikon D5. These pro bodies have superb autofocus systems that allow them to rattle off shots in rapid succession and lock onto focus nearly instantly. The top-end autofocus systems require larger camera bodies, and both models squeeze huge batteries into integrated vertical shooting grips.
Other Full Frame Options
A big SLR isn't the only way to get a full frame sensor. The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II is a small compact with a fixed 35mm f/2 Zeiss lens, but you pay for its size and top-notch glass. The Leica Q features a similar design, but its full frame sensor is married to a wider 28mm f/1.7 lens and its price crosses the $4,000 mark.
Sony has a full line of mirrorless cameras with full frame sensors in its Alpha 7 II series. And Leica's line of rangefinder cameras has been full frame for some time. Current models include the M (Typ 240) and the black-and-white-only M Monochrom (Typ 246).
Olympus and Panasonic are out of the SLR game entirely and have moved to mirrorless designs. Sigma has a lone APS-C SLR available, the SD1 Merrill, which leverages its Foveon sensor technology, but it looks to be moving toward a mirrorless system for future models.
We've yet to review a full frame DSLR that was a disappointment in terms of image quality, but all have their own strengths and weaknesses, especially in regard to autofocus and burst shooting capability. If you're looking for more information on selecting an SLR, check out the Best DSLRs as well as the Best DSLR Lenses. When you're ready to start shooting, read our 10 Beyond-Basic Photography Tips.