When buying a used camera, one important factor to consider is the camera’s shutter count – the number of times the shutter has been activated. This gives an indication of how much use the camera has had and its overall lifespan. But what shutter count is considered high and potentially a sign of excessive wear? There is no definitive threshold, as acceptable shutter counts depend on the camera model and its rated shutter lifespan. However, as a general guide:
Under 50,000-100,000: Low to normal use
For most entry-level and mid-range DSLR and mirrorless cameras, under 50,000-100,000 actuations is considered low to normal use. For example, the Canon EOS Rebel T6 is rated for 100,000 shots. While shutter count increases gradually over time with regular use, remaining under 100,000 actuations means the camera has plenty of lifespan left.
100,000-150,000: Moderate use
Between 100,000-150,000 shots is moderate use for an entry-level or mid-range camera. The shutter system still has reasonable life expectancy at this stage. Cameras like the Nikon D5600 and Canon EOS 80D are rated for 100,000 cycles, so up to 150,000 is not a major concern. However, the bargain price should reflect the moderate use.
150,000-300,000: Heavy use
For entry and mid-level cameras, shutter counts between 150,000-300,000 are considered heavy use. While the camera may still function normally, its shutter system is nearing the end of its lifespan. Issues like longer shutter lag, erratic shutter speeds and failure can start appearing. The price should be substantially lower than normal.
Over 300,000: Excessively high
Once a lower-end camera exceeds 300,000 shutter actuations, it’s generally considered to have reached the end of its usable life. At this extremely high count, shutter failure is likely imminent. The cost should be very low and little long term use should be expected. It’s risky buying at this level unless you just need the camera temporarily.
Acceptable shutter counts by camera tier
To give a better idea of acceptable shutter count ranges, here are some guidelines for different camera classes:
Entry-level DSLR or mirrorless cameras
- Low use: Under 50,000
- Moderate use: 50,000 – 100,000
- High use: 100,000 – 200,000
- Excessive use: Over 200,000
Popular entry-level models like the Canon T7i, Nikon D3500 and Sony a6000 are rated around 100,000 cycles. Up to 200,000 is heavy use but still functional. Over 200,000 becomes risky.
Mid-range DSLR or mirrorless cameras
- Low use: Under 75,000
- Moderate use: 75,000 – 150,000
- High use: 150,000 – 300,000
- Excessive use: Over 300,000
Mid-range cameras like the Canon 80D, Nikon D7500 and Fujifilm X-T3 are built for 150,000+ actuations. So up to 300,000 is heavy but not uncommon use. Beyond that becomes excessive.
Pro-level DSLR or mirrorless cameras
- Low use: Under 200,000
- Moderate use: 200,000 – 400,000
- High use: 400,000 – 500,000
- Excessive use: Over 500,000
Pro models like the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II, Nikon D5 and Sony a9 series are engineered for intense use, with 400,000+ rated cycles. So up to 500,000 is high but acceptable use if the price reflects it. Beyond 500,000 requires careful examination.
High-end medium format cameras
- Low use: Under 100,000
- Moderate use: 100,000 – 200,000
- High use: 200,000 – 400,000
- Excessive use: Over 400,000
Being larger and more intricate, medium format bodies like the Hasselblad X1D and Fujifilm GFX are designed for lower actuation volumes than smaller format cameras. Keep shutter counts under 200,000 for optimal lifespan.
Shutter lifespan by manufacturer
Rated shutter cycles also vary across camera brands based on their technology and testing:
Canon
- Entry-level DSLR: 100,000 cycles
- Mid-range DSLR: 150,000 cycles
- Pro DSLR: 400,000-500,000 cycles
- Mirrorless: 100,000-200,000 cycles
Canon designs their entry and mid-range DSLR shutters for 100,000-150,000 shots. Pro models are engineered for 400,000+ while mirrorless are rated from 100,000 to 200,000 depending on model.
Nikon
- Entry-level DSLR: 100,000 cycles
- Mid-range DSLR: 150,000 cycles
- Pro DSLR: 200,000-300,000 cycles
- Mirrorless: 200,000 cycles
Similarly, Nikon rates their entry and mid-range DSLRs for 100,000 to 150,000 actuations. Pro models are specced for 200,000 to 300,000 shots. Z mirrorless models have a consistent 200,000 rating.
Sony
- Entry-level mirrorless: 100,000-200,000 cycles
- Mid-range mirrorless: 200,000 cycles
- Pro mirrorless: 500,000 cycles
As a mirrorless-exclusive brand, Sony rates their entry models for 100,000 to 200,000 shots. Mid-range bodies are specced for 200,000 and pro models an impressive 500,000 cycles.
Fujifilm
- Entry-level mirrorless: 100,000 cycles
- Mid-range mirrorless: 200,000 cycles
- Pro mirrorless: 300,000 cycles
Fujifilm’s entry-level X Series bodies are rated for 100,000 shots while mid-range models are specced for 200,000 actuations. Pro models like the X-T3 increase to 300,000 cycles.
Olympus & Panasonic
- Entry-level mirrorless: 100,000 cycles
- Mid-range mirrorless: 200,000 cycles
- Pro mirrorless: 200,000-300,000 cycles
Micro Four Thirds manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic rate their entry models at 100,000 actuations. Mid-range and pro bodies are in the 200,000 to 300,000 range depending on model.
Checking a camera’s shutter count
When buying used, it’s important to find out the shutter count before purchasing. There are three main ways to check it:
Camera settings
Some cameras display the shutter count in their settings menu. The option may be labeled “Shutter Count”, “Release Cycles” or similar. Check your camera manual to find the exact menu.
File metadata
Take a photo and open the file in image editing software like Lightroom. The shutter count is often displayed in the metadata, under “Camera” or “Shooting” information.
Online shutter count tools
If the above options don’t work, there are websites offering automated shutter count checks via a camera’s serial number. Popular tools include shutteractuations.com and myshuttercount.com. There may be a small cost for this service.
Having the shutter count enables you to judge whether it’s at a reasonable level for the camera’s age and usage. Very high counts should translate to a lower resale value.
Estimating shutter lifespan
While rated shutter cycles provide a guide, real-world usage can vary:
Camera age
Older cameras will have higher counts on average. A 7 year old DSLR at 150,000 actuations may be normal versus high for a 2 year old model.
Shooting frequency
Occasional hobbyists will have lower counts than professionals shooting frequently. Volume of usage matters more than just age.
Shooting style
Certain genres like sports, wildlife and events require high burst rates and more shutter clicks. These conditions cause faster wear than typical shooting.
Environmental factors
Extensive use in dust, humidity and extreme temperatures can accelerate shutter deterioration. Babying a camera helps prolong its lifespan.
So the acceptable count depends on the camera’s specifics and history. Manufacturers’ ratings are a starting point for evaluating used cameras rather than an absolute cut-off.
Extending shutter life
To maximize shutter longevity as an owner:
- Avoid excessive burst shooting when unnecessary
- Allow time between bursts for shutter to settle
- Reduce shooting in harsh environments when possible
- Use body cap when not shooting to reduce dust
- Regular sensor cleaning to reduce abrasion risk
- Avoid bumps, drops and hard impacts
- Store camera in controlled temperature/humidity
While shutters gradually wear with normal use, following best practices can add many extra cycles before failure or replacement is required.
Conclusion
Determining an excessive shutter count depends on the camera model, its rated lifespan, age, shooting frequency and environmental factors. Entry-level DSLRs and mirrorless cameras often show signs of wear over 200,000 cycles, while mid-range models may last up to 300,000. Pro cameras can exceed 500,000 shots before needing shutter replacement. Checking the count before buying used gives vital clues about a camera’s expected longevity and value. Once purchased, proper care and shooting discipline helps maximize shutter life. While no camera lasts forever, understanding and minimizing shutter wear allows photographers to get the longest usage out of their gear.