A full-frame DSLR is a digital single-lens reflex camera (DSLR) with a 35 mm image sensor format. Historically, 35 mm was one of the standard film formats, alongside larger ones, such as medium format and large format. The full-frame DSLR is in contrast to full-frame mirrorless interchangeable-lens cameras, and DSLR and mirrorless cameras with smaller sensors, much smaller than a full 35 mm frame. Many digital cameras, both compact and SLR models, use a smaller-than-35 mm frame as it is easier and cheaper to manufacture imaging sensors at a smaller size. Historically, the earliest digital SLR models, such as the Nikon NASA F4 or Kodak DCS 100, also used a smaller sensor.
An APS-C format DSLR (left) and a full-frame DSLR (right) show the difference in the size of the sensors.
The Pentax K-1 II is Pentax's flagship full-frame DSLR
Image: Image noise Canon EOS 7D Mark II
Image: Image noise Canon EOS 6D
Digital single-lens reflex camera
A digital single-lens reflex camera is a digital camera that combines the optics and mechanisms of a single-lens reflex camera with a solid-state image sensor and digitally records the images from the sensor.
Perspective view of Sony Mavica from June 1982 press release
Nikon NASA F4 back view with Electronics Box, launched on STS-48 September 1991
Kodak DCS 100, based on a Nikon F3 body with Digital Storage Unit, released in May 1991
Pentax K10D APS-C digital SLR with lens removed