Canon EOS 1D X

The choices at this level are more or less two-fold if you're considering full-frame: Nikon D4S (below) or Canon 1D X.

Both cut it close and there's little to separate the two, but when it comes to being just a whisker ahead we think the Canon has it in the speed department. It offers the fastest-in-class burst mode, the battery seems to last forever and, importantly, its 18-megapixel full-frame sensor is just about perfect for all manner of jobs.

Some other full-frame models outperform in the resolution stakes, and it's questionable as to whether Canon lost its "movie king" hat, but otherwise the 1D X is as good as professional full-frame DSLR cameras get.

PRICE: £4,845 (body only)