7 Best Cameras for Digiscoping in 2023

This is a guide covering the best cameras for digiscoping.

Digiscoping has gained popularity over the years. It’s a great way to shoot the moon or even specimens under a microscope.

However, most people use digiscoping when they are observing wildlife. It’s a cheaper way to shoot photographs especially if you already have a high-grade telescope with you.

Though smartphones can be used for digiscoping, we’ve come up with some of the best cameras for digiscoping.

You can choose from an array of point and shoot to DSLR and micro four-thirds cameras.

So make sure to review all the camera options. That way you can make the best decision for you!

All of the cameras on this list have the capability to be used for digiscoping, which is the technique of using a camera to take photos or videos through a spotting scope, telescope or microscope. However, some camera models on the list may have a better performance or specific features that make them more suitable for digiscoping than others.

In a hurry? Here’s the quick overview:

• ⭐ Best Overall Camera for Digiscoping
  • Nikon Z 6II

• 🔍 Best Mirrorless Cameras for Digiscoping
  • Nikon Z 6II
  • Lumix G7KS
  • Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
  • Fujifilm X-S10

• 📷 Best DSLR Camera for Digiscoping
  • Canon EOS 90D

• 📹 Best Compact Cameras for Digiscoping
  • Panasonic LUMIX G85
  • Canon G7 X Mark II

• 💸 Best Budget Camera for Digiscoping
  • Lumix G7KS

How to Choose the Best Camera for Digiscoping?

Compatibility: When choosing a camera for digiscoping, it’s important to consider the camera’s compatibility with the spotting scope or telescope you plan to use.

Manual Focus and Exposure Control: A good digiscoping setup will have a camera that is capable of manual focus and manual exposure control, so that you can adjust the settings to get the best possible image.

Sensor and RAW: The camera should also have a good sensor, a fast burst mode, and be able to shoot RAW images.

Weight and Size: Another important consideration is the weight and size of the camera. Because digiscoping typically involves holding the camera steady, a heavier camera may be more difficult to use for extended periods of time. A mirrorless or compact camera is usually a good option as they are lightweight and easy to handle.

AF, Resolution, Frame Rate: It’s also worth checking for any features that would be particularly beneficial for digiscoping such as high-speed autofocus, high-resolution and high frame rate, and image stabilization.

Lens Availability: Lastly, it’s a good idea to look into the camera’s lens options and compatibility, since the lens selection is quite important for digiscoping.

7 Best Cameras for Digiscoping

1. Nikon Z 6II

Camera specifications:

• Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
• Max resolution: 6048 x 4024
• Image ratio: w:h 1:1, 3:2, 16:9
• ISO: Auto, 100-51200 (expands to 50-204800)
• Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
• Touch screen: Yes
• USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec)
• USB charging: Yes
• HDMI: Yes (mini HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: Yes
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (via MC-DC2 or smartphone)
• Video modes:
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 144 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 25p / 144 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 144 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 120p / 144 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 100p / 144 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM

The best camera for digiscoping is the Nikon Z 6II.

If you are after the best digiscoping setup, you always want to consider the weight of the camera and the quality of shots that you are going to get.

If you have a higher budget, then why not go after the Nikon Z 6II?

It’s a mirrorless camera from Nikon that stands out from the rest of the cameras that we have featured.

Full frame and mirrorless—these are enough reasons for you to go for the Nikon Z 6II.

It comes with a 24.5MP resolution plus it excels in low light conditions. And in case you want to record videos with it, it has a 4K video resolution giving you outstanding results.

It also comes with a vertical grip that allows you to shoot portraits easily.

Plus, you get to enjoy a growing variety of Z lenses from Nikon.

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2. Lumix G7KS

Camera specifications:

• Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
• Max resolution: 4592 x 3448
• Image ratio: w:h 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
• ISO: Auto, 160, 200, 400, 800, 1600, 3200, 6400, 12800, 25600
• Image stabilization: No
• Touch screen: Yes
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes (microHDMI TypeD)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Wireless: Built-In
• Resolutions: 3840 x 2160 (30, 25, 24, 20fps) 1920 x 1080 (60, 50, 30, 25fps) 1280 x 720 (60, 50, 30, 25fps), 640 x 480 (30, 25 fps)

The best budget camera for digiscoping is the Lumix G7KS.

So you don’t have a large budget for your digiscoping needs.

If you are looking for the best digiscoping setup, then you might be interested in the Panasonic Lumix G7KS Mirrorless Camera.

Though it is known for its 4K video resolution making it a favorite by vloggers, it has an underrated performance when it comes to taking photos.

It offers superb image quality with its 16MP resolution. It also has a precise autofocus feature that allows you to shoot accurately.

Plus, you can get to transfer files via WiFi. What’s not to like about the Panasonic Lumix G7KS?

Some users pointed out that the camera tends to freeze and shuts down after a while.

Plus, you might find shots at low-light to be a bit too noisy.

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3. Panasonic LUMIX G85

Camera specifications:

• Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
• Max resolution: 4592 x 3448
• Image ratio: w:h 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
• ISO: Auto, 200-25600 (expands down to ISO 100)
• Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
• Touch screen: Yes
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes (micro-HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: No
• Wireless: Built-In
• Wireless notes 802.11b/g/n
• Video modes
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 100 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 100 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 28 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60i / 17 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Dolby Digital
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 24 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Dolby Digital
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 20 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 24p / 24 Mbps, AVCHD, MTS, H.264, Dolby Digital

The Panasonic LUMIX G85 4K is a great option for those who are planning to shoot photos outdoors.

Because it is a lightweight camera, you don’t have to worry about carrying another heavy equipment especially when you already have to bring your telescope.

The Panasonic Lumix G85 Digital Camera is a mirrorless micro four-thirds camera that has features that you don’t expect from a camera its size.

It has a 16MP resolution and a stabilization feature that stands out in its class. It also has a flip LCD that makes it easier to view photos regardless of the angle.

Plus, you can also use its touchscreen to get the right setting for your camera. It is undeniably one of the best cameras for digiscoping, but you also have to be aware of its flaws.

For starters, the battery life won’t last that long.

It might be a good idea to buy an extra battery.

Also, some users mentioned that the unit tends to overheat especially if you used its video.

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4. Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II

Camera specifications:

• Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
• Max resolution: 5184 x 3888
• Image ratio: w:h 4:3
• ISO: Auto, 200-25600 (expands down to 64)
• Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
• Touch screen: Yes
• USB: USB 3.0 (5 GBit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes (Micro-HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: Yes
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (wired or via smartphone)
• Video modes:
  • 4096 x 2160 @ 24p / 237 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 102 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 25p / 102 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 24p / 102 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II camera is a bit more powerful than your average micro four-thirds camera.

It comes with a 20.4 MP live MOS sensor coupled with a New TruePic VIII dual quad-core image processor that brings great quality photos for its users.

It can shoot up to 60fps with its silent electronic shutter and up to 15fps with its mechanical shutter.

Though it is more powerful than your average mirrorless camera, it is still true to what a mirrorless camera is all about.

It is lightweight and compact perfect for those who want to keep their gear light. Its autofocus is also something that attracts a lot of users.

It has a 121 point dual fast AF equipped with cross-type on-chip phase-detection focusing.

However, just like other micro four-thirds cameras, it doesn’t perform well in low light situations.

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5. Canon G7 X Mark II

Camera specifications:

• Body type: Compact
• Max resolution: 5472 x 3648
• Image ratio: w:h 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
• ISO: Auto, 125-12800 (expandable to 25600)
• Image stabilization: Optical
• Touch screen: Yes
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes (micro-HDMI)
• Microphone port: No
• Headphone port: No
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (via smartphone)
• Video modes: 1920 x 1080 (60p, 30p, 24p), 1280 x 720 (30p), 640 x 480 (30p)

The Canon Powershot Digital Camera G7XMarkII is a unique option on our list of best cameras for digiscoping.

This is the only camera that you can’t change the lens.

However, we decided to include this because of its powerful features and its beginner-friendly design.

Let’s admit that a lot of people today are intimidated to be using micro four thirds and DSLRs because of its seemingly complex interface.

On the other hand, the Canon PowerShot Digital Camera G7xMarkII is a point-and-shoot camera that allows you to just use it even if you are not exactly a photography enthusiast.

For a point-and-shoot camera, it offers a higher resolution than other micro four-thirds cameras on our list.

It has a 20.3MP CMOS sensor giving you high-quality images plus a wide dynamic range. It also has an autofocus system and a manual focus.

As for the lens, you get an f1.8 aperture if you are using the wide-angle shot.

On the other hand, you can have the f2.8 when it is zoomed.

These are apertures that you typically see from DSLR and micro four-thirds lenses.

It even has a tilting LCD that allows you to adjust according to the angle that you are comfortable with.

Plus, it operates with a touchscreen capability allowing you to adjust according to how you want it.

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6. Canon EOS 90D

Camera specifications:

• Body type: Mid-size SLR
• Max resolution: 6960 x 4640
• Image ratio: w:h 1:1, 4:3, 3:2, 16:9
• ISO: Auto, 100-25600 (expands to 51200)
• Image stabilization: No
• Touch screen: Yes
• USB: USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
• HDMI: Yes
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: Yes
• Wireless: Built-In
• Remote control: Yes (Wired , wireless or smartphone)
• Video modes:
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 120 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 120p / 120 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 60p / 60 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC
  • 1920 x 1080 @ 30p / 30 Mbps, MP4, H.264, AAC

The Canon EOS 90D is a favorite by professional photographers.

It isn’t surprising why it is one of the best cameras for digiscoping.

For starters, you get to enjoy a 32.5 MP resolution.

It comes with a CMOS sensor that has been partnered with Canon’s DIGIC 8 Image Processor giving you stunning results no matter what the situation is.

It appeals to pros because they can get to enjoy great details with every shot.

It is also a good option if you are going to use it in low light situations.

Unlike other cameras that we have featured, you can expect the camera to maintain high-quality shots with minimal noise.

Also, you don’t have a problem shooting multiple shots because it can shoot up to 10fps. On top of that, you can also record 4K videos.

Plus, it has a 45-point all cross-type AF system allowing you to track your subject easily.

Using the camera is not too complicated. You have multi-controller buttons that make it easy to access the features of the camera.

You can then look through the optical viewfinder to get the right function. And lastly, you can connect the camera via WiFi and Bluetooth wherein you can transfer the files wirelessly.

So what’s not to like? First, the EOS90D is a bit on the heavy side.

That’s what you can expect from a DSLR.

Also, check out the best lenses for the Canon 90D.

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7. Fujifilm X-S10

Camera Specifications:

• Body type: SLR-style mirrorless
• Max resolution: 6240 x 4160
• Image ratio: w:h 1:1, 3:2, 16:9
• ISO: Auto, 160-12800 (expands to 80-51200)
• Image stabilization: Sensor-shift
• Touch screen: Yes
• USB: USB 3.2 Gen 1 (5 GBit/sec)
• USB charging: Yes
• HDMI: Yes (micro-HDMI)
• Microphone port: Yes
• Headphone port: No
• Wireless: Built-In
• Wireless notes 802.11b/g/n + Bluetooth
• Remote control: Yes (via smartphone and wired remote)
• Video modes:
  • 4096 x 2160 @ 30p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 4096 x 2160 @ 25p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 4096 x 2160 @ 24p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 4096 x 2160 @ 23.98p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 30p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM
  • 3840 x 2160 @ 25p / 200 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM

The X-S10 is a lightweight camera designed for users who are always on the go.

With a body that’s around less than 500 grams, that’s a lightweight camera to have in your gear bag.

It has a deep handgrip that allows you to hold the camera firmly.

Plus, it also has intuitive controls that give users the chance to tweak their settings. Though it is minimalist on the outside, you can expect a powerful engine on the inside.

You get a 26.1MP sensor that stands out. Plus, the quad-core CPU can provide users with great precision in its ability to focus on subjects.

It only needs 0.02 seconds to target the subject. This camera brings a balance between simplicity and pro-level specs.

If you are going to shoot in low-light conditions, the X-S10 is a handy tool. You can expect less noise from this.

However, if you’ve used the X-T3, you will notice that the X-S10 doesn’t focus as fast.

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Concluding Remarks

If you are looking for the best cameras for digiscoping, you must consider different things.

Budget is always a priority because some cameras could cost a lot while there are those great cameras for less than a quarter.

Next, you also want to know the conditions that you are going to be dealing with.

There are instances when you need a camera to do well in low light conditions.

Unfortunately, some micro four-thirds cameras don’t have the ability to give you great images in low light.

With this list, be sure to compare the cameras before you invest in one.

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