A full-frame camera has an imaging sensor the same size as a 35mm film frame (36 x 24mm) – much larger than an APS-C sized sensor (approximately 22.3 x 14.8mm).

Because of its bigger surface area – around 2.6x more than APS-C – a full-frame sensor can use larger light-gathering pixels. This typically results in better low-light performance, reduced image noise and greater dynamic range. It also makes it easier to achieve a shallower depth of field compared with smaller sensor formats.

Not necessarily. Sensor size alone doesn’t determine resolution – APS-C cameras can also offer very high pixel counts.

The larger size of a full-frame sensor allows pixels to be physically larger, helping them capture more light and deliver cleaner images at high ISO settings. This is one of the reasons why many photographers consider a good full frame camera as offering superb image quality for low-light photography.

In practice, many popular full-frame mirrorless cameras offer higher resolutions than APS-C models, making them ideal for landscape photography, portrait and travel – or anywhere you need to capture fine detail.

Full frame isn’t inherently better than APS-C – it depends on your priorities. The smaller size of an APS-C sensor enables cameras and lenses that are more compact and lightweight, which can be an important consideration if you’re travelling or carrying a camera for long periods.

One of the main differences between full-frame cameras and APS-C cameras is the effect that sensor size has on lens selection. An APS-C sensor captures a smaller central portion of the image projected by the lens, effectively giving you more reach compared with using the same lens on a full-frame camera – often referred to as a 1.6x crop factor.

While this can be beneficial for distant subjects, full-frame cameras make it easier to capture a true wide-angle perspective and take fuller advantage of a lens’s angle of view. This is especially appealing for landscape, architectural and creative photography. Many Canon full-frame mirrorless cameras also allow you to quickly apply a 1.6x crop, giving you extra reach when you need it.

The best full-frame mirrorless camera depends on what you shoot. Canon’s EOS R System includes top full-frame cameras for landscape photography, offering very high resolution and durable build quality, high-speed models for sport, and versatile all-rounders suited to a wide range of subjects.

If you’re looking for a full-frame upgrade, consider how it could enhance the way you like to shoot. Greater resolution gives you more freedom to crop and create larger, more detailed prints, while advanced video features such as 8K and Open Gate recording expand your creative options. In-body image stabilisation (IBIS) helps you shoot with confidence in low light and means fewer missed shots due to camera shake.

If you find that your current camera struggles to keep up, a full-frame camera with a faster burst speed and pre-continuous shooting lets you capture fleeting moments – recording frames even before you fully press the shutter button.

And if you're finding yourself leaving your camera behind because it's too heavy, Canon's compact and lightweight full-frame mirrorless models are designed to go wherever inspiration takes you – so you're ready to capture every moment.

Whichever mirrorless camera best suits your needs, you’ll have access to Canon’s extensive range of RF prime and zoom lenses. The RF mount has enabled more compact, higher-performing full-frame lenses with advanced features. It has also led to new types of lenses that weren't possible until now – such as hybrid lenses optimised for stills and video, and VR lenses for creating immersive content.

The best beginner full-frame camera is one that’s lightweight, easy to use and can grow with your skills. Canon full-frame cameras have intuitive controls that can be customised to match your preferred setup, and many also include Scene Intelligent Auto mode. This can handle exposure automatically while still letting you benefit from the improved image quality, low-light performance and creative flexibility that full-frame sensors offer.

This combination makes Canon full-frame mirrorless cameras ideal for anyone starting out, whether you’ve used an interchangeable-lens camera before or are stepping up from a smartphone.

The best full-frame camera for landscapes and outdoor photography is one that’s designed for challenging conditions, with strong build quality and dust- and weather-resistance providing peace of mind. A high-resolution sensor allows you to capture an immense amount of detail in a scene and gives you plenty of room to crop and explore different compositions later.

Full-frame sensors can capture a wider dynamic range, which is especially useful when shooting bright skies, and their large size is ideal for wide-angle photography. Canon’s RF lens range extends from ultra-wide fisheye lenses to compact 24mm, 28mm and 35mm primes, giving you the flexibility to expand your creative horizons.

The best full-frame camera for travel photography is lightweight, has strong battery life and offers the versatility to capture a wide range of subjects. Whether you’re photographing travel portraits, scenic views, food or wildlife – or shooting video clips for social media – you’ll need a camera that is easy to carry, adapts quickly to changing scenes, and is chargeable on the go.

Taking a tripod on your travels may not always be practical, in which case a full-frame camera that offers excellent high ISO performance and features in-body image stabilisation (IBIS) will help you achieve sharper images. Shooting handheld also gives you the freedom to find different angles and fresh perspectives – particularly if your camera has a Vari-angle screen.

Canon’s intelligent Dual Pixel CMOS AF automatically detects and tracks a wide range of subjects, from people and wildlife to vehicles, helping you react quickly to unpredictable travel moments. And of course, you'll be able to enjoy the step up to full-frame quality, capturing scenes with greater detail, depth and dynamic range.

Lens choice is equally important for travel. Canon’s RF range includes fast, lightweight primes and zooms covering a wide range of focal lengths, letting you capture everything from sweeping landscapes to detailed close-ups while on the move.