The Best Mirrorless Camera for Beginners (2024 Review)17 min read

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When it comes to buying a camera, the best mirrorless camera for beginners is one that’s easy to use and lightweight. This makes it easier to carry around all day and more comfortable. This is usually the most critical factor for beginners.

The best mirrorless camera for beginners should also have a good lens selection. Therefore, making it easier to improve on skills. For example, if you want to take some photos in low-light situations, the standard kit lens probably won’t cut it all the time. You’ll probably have to invest in an expensive prime or zoom lens that allows you to capture clear images when lighting is not that great.

So when you are looking for a camera that’s best for beginners, make sure it has excellent lenses and is lightweight and easy to use.

If you are interested in street photography. Check out the best camera for street photography and the best lenses for street photography.

The 5 Best Mirrorless Cameras for Beginners

RankTitleItem NamePrice (from)Amazon RatingAmazon
Link
1Top Mirrorless Camera for BeginnersSony Alpha A6000 Mirrorless Digital Camera$6484.7View on Amazon
2Best Mirrorless Camera for BeginnersFujifilm X-T200 Mirrorless Digital Camera$7994.3View on Amazon
3Best Portable Mirrorless Camera For BeginnersCanon EOS M200 Mirrorless Digital Camera$5494.6View on Amazon
4Mirrorless Camera for Beginner VloggersPanasonic Lumix G100 Mirrorless Digital Camera$7474.4View on Amazon
5Beginner-Friendly Mirrorless CameraOlympus PEN E-PL10 Mirrorless Digital Camera$6494.8View on Amazon
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What is a Mirrorless Camera?

A mirrorless camera is a digital camera that doesn’t use a mirror system, which is what DSLR cameras use. Instead of using a mirror, this type of camera sends the light straight to the image sensor so you can view your subject on the monitor or viewfinder found in the camera.

There are many models to choose from, including compact mirrorless cameras with built-in lenses, interchangeable lens cameras (with detachable or external lenses), and professional-level models that are even larger than most DSLRs.

Most of the time, a mirrorless camera comes with a built-in lens. It uses the same form factor as a DSLR or SLT camera. This allows you to change lenses right after buying your first one, which is ideal for beginners.

Mirrorless cameras are also lighter and more compact than their DSLR counterparts, making them even more ideal for beginners.

While mirrorless cameras are more convenient than DSLR models, they’re not necessarily more versatile. They don’t offer the same features as DSLRs. Mirrorless cameras may take longer to process the images you take because they don’t use a mirror system. In addition, some mirrorless cameras are larger and heavier than most DSLRs. This makes them less ideal for long-term use and travel.

Top Mirrorless Camera for Beginners – Sony Alpha A6000 Mirrorless Digital Camera

Top Mirrorless Camera for Beginners - Sony Alpha A6000 Mirrorless Digital Camera
Top Mirrorless Camera for Beginners – Sony Alpha A6000 Mirrorless Digital Camera

FROM

$648

on Amazon

Amazon Rating: 4.7 out of 5 stars

What is the Sony Alpha A6000 Mirrorless Digital Camera?

Sony has been making high-quality cameras for over three decades. With their A6000 mirrorless camera, they are continuing their legacy of making outstanding digital cameras.

The Sony Alpha A6000 is a mirrorless camera featuring an APS-C sized 24.3 MP Exmor CMOS Full-Frame sensor.

In addition, it incorporates Sony’s unique 179-point phase-detection autofocus system. In addition, it features the BIONZ X image processor for faster AF and faster continuous shooting speeds.

If you are looking for an entry-level mirrorless camera that’s easy to use and has excellent lenses. The Sony Alpha a6000 is definitely an option.

Features of the Sony Alpha A6000 Mirrorless Digital Camera

This camera has a 24.3 MP Exmor APS-C sensor, the same size as used in most entry-level and prosumer DSLRs. With this sensor size, you can capture detailed images that are packed with details.

The autofocus system on this mirrorless camera is also very fast and accurate. Consequently, making it great for taking photos of moving objects or your kids running around. In addition, the camera has a 179-point phase-detection autofocus system and a 25-point contrast-detection AF system.

This means that it will capture what you are trying to capture, even if your subject moves in the frame.

In addition, the camera can shoot up to 11 frames per second with continuous autofocus tracking. This means that you can shoot fast-moving subjects and images of kids and pets running around without blurriness.

The camera has a 3-inch touch screen, which allows you to take photos and see them on your LCD or viewfinder. In addition, it has a Live View mode. Therefore, allowing you to take advantage of full-time live autofocus as well as exposure bracketing.

The Sony Alpha a6000 uses the same BIONZ X image processor found in most high-end DSLRs. This makes it exceptionally fast and capable of capturing excellent images that are packed with details and sharpness.

The awesome stuff
  • High-End Sensor – This camera has a 24.3 MP sensor, which makes it equivalent to a 45-MP full-frame sensor.
  • Awesome Autofocus – This camera has a 179-point phase-detection autofocus system, which is very fast and accurate when faced with fast-moving subjects or kids running around.
  • Great Image Quality – The Sony Alpha a6000 also has a BIONZ X image processor capable of better noise reduction and faster processing speeds.
  • Excellent Video Capability – It can shoot Full HD (1,920 x 1,080) videos at up to 60 fps. This video capability of the Sony Alpha a6000 is excellent for taking advantage of slow-motion or recording your family’s antics.
  • Built-In Wi-Fi and NFC – In addition, the Sony Alpha a6000 has built-in Wi-Fi capability and NFC (Near Field Communication), which allows you to connect with your smartphone.
  • Good Battery Life – The Sony Alpha a6000 uses NP-FW50 lithium-ion battery, which gives you roughly 460 shots per charge.
You may also like:  The 7 Best Fujifilm Cameras in 2024 (Unbiased Review)
What we don’t like
  • Slightly Bulky – This camera is slightly larger than an Olympus OM-D E-M5, weighing about 1.8 lbs (0.8 kg).
  • No Optical Viewfinder – Even though it has a 3-inch touch screen, you won’t be able to view what you are shooting in the viewfinder on this model.
  • Bulky Battery – The camera uses a proprietary lithium-ion battery, which can be a hassle to find in stores if you need a replacement.
  • Expensive Extras – The camera uses Sony-specific batteries, memory cards, and remote shutter releases. This makes it more expensive to buy extras than other mirrorless cameras compatible with standard accessories.

Why Do I Recommend the Sony Alpha A6000 Mirrorless Digital Camera for Beginners?

If you are looking for a mirrorless camera to start your photography experience. The Sony Alpha a6000 is a great choice.

First, the camera has an impressive 24.3 MP sensor. Equally impressive 179-point phase-detection autofocus system that will help you get the shots you want, even if your subjects are moving in the frame.

In addition, it’s capable of shooting 11 frames per second in continuous autofocus mode, which is another great benefit when taking pictures of active kids or pets.

And while it’s a little larger and heavier than smaller point-and-shoots. The fact that it has built-in Wi-Fi and NFC capability makes it a versatile camera for travel.

In addition, this camera is affordable and is a great starter mirrorless camera for anyone who wants to experience photography without breaking the bank.

Best Mirrorless Camera for Beginners – Fujifilm X-T200 Mirrorless Digital Camera

Best Mirrorless Camera for Beginners - Fujifilm X-T200 Mirrorless Digital Camera
Best Mirrorless Camera for Beginners – Fujifilm X-T200 Mirrorless Digital Camera

FROM

$799

on Amazon

Amazon Rating: 4.3 out of 5 stars

What is the Fujifilm X-T200 Mirrorless Digital Camera?

Fujifilm has a long history of making high-quality cameras. And with their mirrorless X-T200 camera, they are excitingly continuing that legacy.

This camera is a minor step up from the Fuji X100 series. Fuji X100 was an entry-level digital camera that got many photographers started on the path of photography.

In addition, it can take advantage of retro-style film and has many different image effects, including an Art Filters mode for creative effect shots.

The X-T200 is also an extremely attractive model that’s great for photographers who want a digital camera with the retro look of an old rangefinder film camera.

Features of the Fujifilm X-T200 Mirrorless Digital Camera

This camera is designed for high-quality images with its 24.2 MP APS-C CMOS sensor, a 1/4000 stop shutter speed, and a top ISO speed of 12,800 (expandable to 32,000). This makes it a great camera for taking pictures of kids, pets, or other moving objects.

Moreover, the camera has an electronic viewfinder and a 3-inch LCD touchscreen that allows you to see your images before taking them. And like most mirrorless cameras, it has Wi-Fi capability and a remote shutter release.

This camera also has built-in high-performance Wi-Fi and NFC. Allowing photographers to quickly download photos on a smartphone, share their images on social media or transfer images to a tablet.

In addition, the camera has a built-in tiltable 3-inch touchscreen for taking self-portraits or shooting from different angles.

This camera also comes with the functionality of the film simulation mode. Certainly, allowing photographers to shoot photographs that mimic classic Fujifilm film styles.

And to compliment this camera’s retro look, it comes with a leather case and a leather wrist strap.

The awesome stuff
  • Good Image Quality – The Fuji X-T200 has a 24.2 MP sensor, producing excellent image quality in both stills and video capture.
  • Great Image Effects – This camera has the Art Filters mode, allowing photographers to add a vintage filter and artistic effects.
  • Great Battery Life – The Fujifilm X-T200 uses an NP-W126S lithium battery, which gives you about 270 shots per charge.
  • The Fuji X-T200 is an excellent mirrorless camera for beginners looking to get started without spending too much money on accessories or replacing batteries.
  • Affordable – Like most mirrorless cameras, the Fujifilm X-T200 costs less than other digital cameras.
  • Excellent Center Touch Screen – This camera has a 3” LCD touchscreen that allows photographers to see what they are taking in the viewfinder before taking a picture.
  • Great Build Quality – The Fujifilm X-T200 is made of metal and feels sturdy under your fingers when you hold it.
What we don’t like
  • Only One Memory Card Slot – The camera only has one memory card slot, which is a little inconvenient to use when transferring pictures from the camera to your smartphone.
  • No Built-In Flash – Every camera should have a built-in flash to take photographs in low light or for self-portraits, but this Fujifilm X-T200 mirrorless camera does not have this feature.
  • Expensive – Like most mirrorless cameras, the Fujifilm X-T200 is more expensive than other digital cameras for a similar feature set.

Why Do I Recommend the Fujifilm X-T200 Mirrorless Digital Camera for Beginners?

If you are looking for a retro camera to take pictures of your kids and pets, or a camera that can take advantage of retro-style film, The Fujifilm X-T200 is the perfect choice for you.

Similarly, this camera has an excellent 24.2 MP APS-C CMOS sensor that delivers clear, high-quality images on still photography and video capture.

In addition, it has a 1/4000 shutter speed and ISO 12,800 maximum sensitivity which is perfect for any situation requiring quick shots.

Further, this mirrorless digital camera has built-in Wi-Fi and NFC capability for easy uploading to your social media pages.

Although it is on the expensive side, The Fujifilm X-T200 has enough features and quality to grow with as you become a more experienced photographer.

This mirrorless camera is an excellent choice for a digital SLR for serious photographers looking to save some money in the long run by getting started on a mirrorless camera.

Best Portable Mirrorless Camera For Beginners – Canon EOS M200 Mirrorless Digital Camera

Best Portable Mirrorless Camera For Beginners - Canon EOS M200 Mirrorless Digital
Best Portable Mirrorless Camera For Beginners – Canon EOS M200 Mirrorless Digital

FROM

$549

on Amazon

Amazon Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars

What is the Canon EOS M200 Mirrorless Digital Camera?

The Canon EOS M200 Mirrorless Digital Camera is the most portable mirrorless camera. It has a compact and lightweight design making it easy for you to carry it wherever you go.

It is an excellent choice for photographers looking for a mirrorless model that is easy to carry and can easily fit into your pocket or purse.

The Canon EOS M200 is a mirrorless camera with many of the same features as other higher-end cameras in the Canon M series.

This camera is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, affordable mirrorless digital camera.

Features of the Canon EOS M200 Mirrorless Digital Camera

The camera has an EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II lens. Further, this camera also shoots high-definition images with excellent quality on both still photography and video capture. This feature makes it perfect for recording videos of your kids, pets, or other moving objects.

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Moreover, this camera has an electronic viewfinder (EVF) and a 3-inch touchscreen that allows you to see what you’re taking before taking the picture.

This camera also comes with a built-in tiltable 3-inch touchscreen for taking self-portraits or shooting from different angles.

In addition, the camera has Wi-Fi and NFC capability, which allows you to download pictures on a smartphone or tablet. This is very convenient when traveling since you do not need to worry about buying an external memory card with a camera kit.

Like most mirrorless cameras, the Canon EOS M200 is lightweight and easy to carry.

The awesome stuff
  • Great Image Quality – The Canon EOS M200 has a 24 MP CMOS sensor, producing excellent image quality in both stills and video capture.
  • Great Image Effects – This camera has the Art Filters mode, allowing photographers to add a vintage filter and artistic effects.
  • Good Battery Life – The Canon EOS M200 uses an LP-E17 lithium battery, which gives you about 250 shots per charge.
  • The Canon EOS M200 is an excellent mirrorless camera for beginners looking to get started without spending too much money on accessories or replacing batteries.
  • Affordable – Like most mirrorless cameras, the Canon EOS M200 costs less than other digital cameras.
  • The M-mount lens mount will allow you to purchase many lenses to expand your image quality in the future.
What we don’t like
  • Poor Low Light Photos – The camera has a maximum ISO of 6,200, challenging to use in low-light situations.
  • No Tiltable Viewfinder – The viewfinder is fixed at a 45-degree angle, which is not suitable for taking pictures from low angles.
  • Short Battery Life – The battery life of this camera is average. You will need to recharge it after using it for a couple of hours.

Why Do I Recommend the Canon EOS M200 Mirrorless Digital Camera for Beginners?

If you are looking for a high-quality mirrorless camera that will allow you to experiment with features such as artistic filters, this is the camera for you.

If you are just beginning your foray into photography, I recommend this Canon EOS M200 model as your first mirrorless camera.

This affordable camera has all of the features needed for beginners to start learning about photography. Therefore, the Canon EOS M200 also has many valuable features that will allow you to improve your photography skills as time goes by.

I would also recommend the M-mount lens mount, which allows you to purchase telephoto, wide-angle, and zoom lenses in the future without having to purchase a different camera.

The best mirrorless camera for beginners are cameras that have many valuable features, provide excellent image quality, and have a wide range of accessories that will allow you to explore other photography techniques over time.

Mirrorless Camera for Beginner Vloggers – Panasonic Lumix G100 Mirrorless Digital Camera

Mirrorless Camera for Beginner Vloggers - Panasonic Lumix G100 Mirrorless Digital Camera
Mirrorless Camera for Beginner Vloggers – Panasonic Lumix G100 Mirrorless Digital Camera

FROM

$747

on Amazon

Amazon Rating: 4.4 out of 5 stars

What is the Panasonic Lumix G100 Mirrorless Digital Camera?

The Panasonic Lumix G100 Mirrorless Digital Camera is an excellent camera for vloggers. It comes with an image stabilizer function that will reduce hand-shaking and produce less blurry pictures.

It also has a wide range of video shooting options that will allow you to capture professional videos without using an external camera.

The small and lightweight design of the camera makes it easy to carry in your purse or pocket, which is perfect for any vlogger who needs to shoot videos on the go.

The camera has an articulating screen that rotates at 180 degrees for self-portraits. In addition, the camera has a high-quality microphone, so you can easily record audio without having to use an external microphone.

This Panasonic Lumix G100 camera will allow you to capture professional videos for your YouTube channel or vlog. In addition, you will be able to take high-quality pictures of your travels, pets, or family members with ease.

Features of the Panasonic Lumix G100 Mirrorless Digital Camera

The camera has a 20.3 MP Live MOS sensor and a 4x optical zoom lens for taking high-quality pictures in different situations.

It has a versatile video capability allowing it to record UHD 4K up to 30p. It has 3-general-purpose dials and two specific-purpose buttons for easy access to shooting mode, exposure, and other options.

The camera also has a tilting electronic viewfinder LCD screen that can be tilted upward by up to 180 degrees for taking selfies or shooting from different angles.

The camera is lightweight and weighs less than 290 grams. Therefore, making it easy to carry in your purse or backpack while traveling.

With Full HD recording, you can use the 4x and 2x slow and 8x, 4x, and 2x quick motion settings. There is a possibility of recording Time Lapse using this camera.

Additionally, for improved external audio capture, the camera is equipped with a 3.5mm microphone input.

If you want to venture into real estate photography, we have reviewed the best lenses for real estate photography.

The awesome stuff
  • The camera’s wide range of video shooting options will allow you to create professional videos for your YouTube channel or vlog without the need to purchase an external camera.
  • The lightweight design of the camera makes it very easy to carry in your purse or pocket while traveling.
  • The articulating screen on the camera rotates at 180 degrees for self-portraits or shooting from different angles.
  • The camera has a high-quality microphone with an external audio input, so you can easily record audio without using an external microphone.
  • The camera has a 4x optical zoom lens and 20 MP Live MOS sensor that produces excellent image quality in both videos and stills capture modes.
  • The camera’s 3-general-purpose dials and two specific-purpose buttons make it very easy to access shooting modes, exposure, and other camera features.
  • The camera is lightweight and weighs less than 290 grams, making it very easy to carry in your purse or backpack while traveling.
  • The Panasonic Lumix G100 Mirrorless Digital Camera has built-in Wi-Fi connectivity that allows you to share images from your camera to different devices wirelessly.
What we don’t like
  • The camera does not come with a wide range of accessories, which will result in a limited selection of creative options for your videos and photography.
  • The viewfinder on the camera is fixed at a 90-degree angle, so it is difficult to take pictures from low angles.
  • The camera is not designed to shoot in RAW format, so you must use JPEG files alone if you are serious about capturing high-quality images and videos in different shooting situations.

Why Do I Recommend the Panasonic Lumix G100 Mirrorless Digital Camera for Beginners?

The features and capabilities of the Panasonic Lumix G100 Mirrorless Digital Camera will allow you to capture pictures and videos that are beautiful and professional in quality.

You may also like:  The 5 Best Sony Mirrorless Cameras in 2024 (Honest & Unbiased)

The camera has a 4x optical zoom lens that allows you to capture pictures from different angles without moving away from your subject.

The camera’s 20 MP Live MOS sensor and 20x digital zoom function make it easy to capture excellent pictures perfect for vlogging, blogging, or sharing on social media.

In addition, the camera has a variety of shooting modes that will allow you to take different types of pictures without having to learn how to edit your videos.

The articulating viewfinder LCD screen is also handy for vloggers. Above all, it is easy to take self-portraits without getting down on the ground.

The camera’s comfortable grip and lightweight design make it very easy to carry in your purse or backpack while traveling.

The built-in Wi-Fi connectivity of the camera will allow you to share images from your camera to different devices wirelessly.

You can easily capture professional videos with the help of an articulating screen, 20 MP Live MOS sensor, 4x optical zoom lens, 20x digital zoom, and 3.5mm microphone input.

Beginner-Friendly Mirrorless Camera – Olympus PEN E-PL10 Mirrorless Digital Camera

Beginner-Friendly Mirrorless Camera - Olympus PEN E-PL10 Mirrorless Digital Camera
Beginner-Friendly Mirrorless Camera – Olympus PEN E-PL10 Mirrorless Digital Camera

FROM

$649

on Amazon

Amazon Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars

What is the Olympus PEN E-PL10 Mirrorless Digital Camera?

The Olympus PEN E-PL10 Mirrorless Digital Camera is one of the most affordable mirrorless cameras currently available on the market.

The camera combines novice-friendly modes with a stylish shell creating a capable mirrorless camera perfect for beginners.

This compact camera has interchangeable lenses, making it easy to create videos and take pictures with different angles, distances, and perspectives.

The camera is lightweight and weighs 12.2 ounces. Likewise, making it easy to carry in your purse or backpack while traveling.

The Olympus PEN E-PL10 Mirrorless Digital Camera is perfect for beginners because it comes with various shooting modes that make it easy to take stunning pictures and videos even without having to edit your videos.

Features of the Olympus PEN E-PL10 Mirrorless Digital Camera

The camera can record Full HD videos at a rate of 30 frames per second, and it has a 10x optical zoom lens that allows you to achieve an equivalent angle of 112 mm.

Additionally, the camera has a 3-inch LCD screen that rotates 360 degrees for taking self-portraits, which will allow you to take pictures from every angle.

It has an intelligent auto shooting mode that will automatically choose an appropriate scene setting depending on your subject. The camera has a 5x optical zoom lens that captures high-quality stills and videos at 720p (60fps).

The Olympus PEN E-PL10 Mirrorless Digital Camera can capture high-quality images even in low light due to the camera’s ISO range of 125 – 6400.

In addition, the camera has a variety of shooting modes that allow you to take different types of pictures depending on the subject matter of your videos or pictures.

The camera’s 3-inch LCD screen will help you easily frame your subjects when taking pictures or making videos.

The awesome stuff
  • The camera combines novice-friendly modes with a stylish shell creating a capable mirrorless camera perfect for beginners.
  • This compact camera has interchangeable lenses.
  • The camera is lightweight and weighs 12.2 ounces.
  • The camera’s interchangeable lenses and focus-assist functions make it easy to create videos.
  • The camera can record Full HD videos at a rate of 30 frames per second, and it has a 10x optical zoom lens that allows you to achieve an equivalent angle of 112 mm.
  • It comes with many shooting modes, including Intelligent Auto, Portrait, Maitreya, Flower, Panasonic Macro Close-up Pro, and more.
  • The camera has a lot of intelligent settings that can help you to choose different shooting modes automatically.
  • The camera’s 3-inch LCD screen provides excellent image quality for your videos and pictures.
What we don’t like
  • The camera does not come with a wide range of accessories, which will result in a limited selection of creative options for your videos and photography.
  • The viewfinder on the camera is fixed at a 90-degree angle, so it is difficult to take pictures from low angles.
  • The camera is not designed to shoot in RAW format, so you must use JPEG files alone if you are serious about capturing high-quality images and videos in different shooting situations.

Why Do I Recommend the Olympus PEN E-PL10 Mirrorless Digital Camera for Beginners?

If you are a beginner and want to take stunning pictures and videos with your compact camera. Then the Olympus PEN E-PL10 Mirrorless Digital Camera is perfect for you. It comes with an array of shooting modes that will help you to achieve quality images in different situations.

The camera has an autofocus that can lock on a moving object (autofocus) or be used in manual mode to take still shots. Additionally, the 3-inch LCD screen will come in handy for composing different shots from different angles.

Even if you are a beginner, the camera’s interchangeable lenses and focus-assist functions will allow you to take pictures or videos with different perspectives effectively.

Moreover, the compact design of the camera is also handy for traveling. You can easily carry it in your purse or backpack, making it possible for you to capture stunning photos and videos wherever you go.

The camera’s interchangeable lenses and focus-assist functions make it easy to create videos.

So, if you are looking for a novice-friendly mirrorless camera for capturing stunning videos and images. Then the Olympus PEN E-PL10 Mirrorless Digital Camera is an excellent choice.

You will be glad that you purchased a camera like this because it provides you with many shooting options while on your travels.

Final Thoughts on The Best Mirrorless Camera for Beginners

As a beginner, you should know what you want out of your camera before making that decision.

There are many different cameras on the market, and knowing what features you need will make it easier to narrow down your search and choose a camera that will fulfill your needs.

Each of the entry-level mirrorless cameras that I have reviewed in this guide has its own strengths, so I recommend purchasing one and testing it out to see if you like it.

However, doing your homework before making your choice is vital for finding the best camera for beginners.

My advice is to take the time to learn about each camera before making a purchase. That way, you will have more confidence that you have made the right decision.

Now that you know which mirrorless camera is best for beginners. It’s time to go out and purchase your own to get started on this fantastic adventure called photography.

If you are a beginner photographer, I would like to know why you want to purchase a new camera. Please let me know by leaving a comment below.

James M

I've always been passionate about photography for as long as I can remember. I would take photos at any chance I got. I made up my own world and filled it with photos of friends, family, animals, natural forces, and more! This passion leads me till today where I have made myself so many happy memories and memories for others. This is why it means the world to me when I write these posts and get to make someone's day by inspiring them.

This Post Has 6 Comments

  1. Chapman

    Small body molding changes in the XTi arguably makes a difference in the ergonomics of the camera; depending on your hand size, you might find the XTi comfortable or unbalanced and cramped.

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