What is a key difference between a DSLR and a mirrorless camera?

The primary distinction lies in the design and functionality of the viewfinders used in these two camera types. DSLRs (Digital Single-Lens Reflex cameras) utilize optical viewfinders that allow photographers to see exactly what the lens is capturing through a series of mirrors and prisms. This system reflects light through the lens to the viewfinder directly, providing a real-time optical view of the scene.

In contrast, mirrorless cameras, as the name suggests, do not have the mirror mechanism seen in DSLRs. Instead, they use an electronic viewfinder or display to show what the sensor is capturing, resulting in a more compact construction. The absence of mirrors in mirrorless cameras enables manufacturers to design slimmer and lighter bodies, often making them more portable than traditional DSLRs.

The other options mischaracterize important features of these camera types. For example, while it is true that mirrorless cameras generally feature electronic viewfinders, the statement that DSLRs use electronic viewfinders is inaccurate; they use optical viewfinders. Additionally, claims regarding weight and battery life do not hold universally true, as advancements in design and technology can lead to varying results among different models of both types of cameras.