Best Budget DSLR Cameras

There was a time when digital DSLRs were all the rage. In fact, the first one came out in 1999.

But despite the new wave of mirrorless rigs dropping in, there are still countless best-budget DSLRs that are very much relevant today.

But if this is your first rodeo to purchase a DSLR camera, chances are the gazillion choices and models out there are likely to toss you into confusion.

For that reason alone, looking into what you are buying is very much important.

But not to worry.

In this article, we are going to talk about everything DSLR and the highly recommended budget models.

But before we jump into the meaty details, let’s see what exactly defines the best DSLR cameras.

Things to consider when choosing the best budget DSLR cameras

Best cheap DSLR cameras for beginner photographers

Not all DSLR gears will be the same.

Some are good, some bad, and others just meh. In order to pick the right choice, consider the following factors:

Weight

DSLRs are old-school cameras with mirror reflectors that add a tone of weight to their overall structure.

As such, some are likely to be bulky and heavy adding an unnecessary burden to your already fully stocked traveling bag.

Battery life

This too varies from one model to another.

So if you shoot for prolonged hours, ensure the gear you are going to pick will be up for the long ride ahead.

LCD screen

Some of the budget cameras, especially those at or below $500 are likely to have an immovable non-touchscreen LCD.

If you choose to spend a little more, you can get vari-angle screens that let you take selfies and shoot from different angles.

Plus, a touch-enabled screen lets you pinch, zoom, or review footage while shooting.

ISO range

The good news is that many DSLR cameras on a budget are going to have the right ISO range, which is usually between 100 to 40000.

Depending on your needs, you can go for those with an expandable capacity beyond 40000, which is usually not recommended as images become grainy. 

However, the right ISO ensures the camera will perform well in varying light conditions.

Sensor quality and size

A higher resolution is something no one should sweep under the table.

Thankfully, many mid-budget cameras carry around 20+ megapixels that shoot ultra-clear footage.

To get even juicier results, go for those with large sensors.

Plenty of accessories

DSLR gears are inherently versatile.

But it pays handsomely to check for extra features like triggers, flashes, mounts, and others that provide for a highly customizable experience.

There are other important factors that you should not ignore like the rate of continuous shooting mode, time-lapse videos, weather resistance, durability, connection networks, number of autofocus points, etc.

And now back to our main theme…

What are the best budget DSLR cameras?

Which camera is best for photography in low price?

Here are a couple of options that you’ll find supremely reliable:

1. Nikon D3500 DSLR Camera

It is every photographer’s desire to capture high-quality images with notable details, color accuracy, and dynamic range.

The greatest image sharpness cannot be overemphasized enough. Guess what, the Nikon D3500 DSLR Camera offers exactly that.

Shooting at 24.2 megapixels with Expeed 4 processor, this gear guarantees outstanding performance.

It has the capability to shoot full HD videos and you can edit them internally.

Quite conveniently, it’s got SnapBridge Bluetooth that will let you share images with other mobile devices.

Durability should not worry you because the Nikon D3500 DSLR Camera is a top-class quality rig that you can take anywhere.

Its design is waterproof, temperature-proof, and X-ray proof with shock and vibration resistance capability.

So if you always work in demanding situations, this is the camera to have. 

Main features

  • 24.2 megapixel CMOS sensor
  • Image stabilization
  • EXPEED 4 image processor 
  • 5 fps shooting
  • Omitted optical low-pass filter
  • LCD screen for monitoring and reviewing images
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • 11 point autofocus system
  • In-camera image editing
  • Full HD video recording
  • Built-in pop-up flash

Pros

  • Comes with a guide that teaches beginners photography basics
  • Captures nicely detailed footage
  • Hassle-free to learn
  • Comfortable grip
  • Affordably priced
  • Fairly lightweight than previous models

Cons

  • Not ideal for point-and-shoot scenarios
  • The LCD is not touchscreen and doesn’t tilt or flip

2. Canon EOS REBEL SL3 Digital SLR Camera

There are many reasons why Canon EOS REBEL SL3 Digital SLR Camera should be your go-to model.

First, it has a very powerful 24.1-megapixel image sensor that shoots stunning images and 4K time-lapse movies. 

Unlike the Nikon D3500 DSLR Camera, this one comes with a vari-angle LCD touchscreen.

This lets you shoot selfies and explore fun shooting angles. The touchscreen can reduce the hassle of dealing with buttons.

Canon EOS REBEL SL3’s compact and lightweight design will be a blessing for those who move around a lot.

While it’s been targeted at beginners, its features are far more advanced to suit pro-level photographers.

The gear comes paired with a high-quality lens kit.

If you find this camera to be a little expensive, you can pick its earlier version Canon SL2. They are almost the same only that the latter lacks 4K recording.

Main features

  • Built-in Wi-Fi
  • Touch-enabled LCD screen
  • 24.1 CMOS image sensor
  • 9-point phase-detection AF
  • Vari-angle LCD
  • Built-in flash

Pros

  • Compact and lightweight
  • Touchscreen-enabled LCD screen
  • Shoots outstanding 4k footage
  • Accurate and fast autofocus
  • Built-in sharing technology
  • Long battery life

Cons

  • No serious flaws worth mentioning

3. Canon EOS Rebel T8i

Canon EOS Rebel T8i is an upgraded version of Canon EOS SL3 for a discerning photographer.

You get a robust DIGIC 8 image processor that shoots magnificent stills and videos at 24.1 megapixels. It supports up to 4K quality.

While most models in this review come with old-school less than 7-point autofocus, this one stretches to 9 with AI enhancement.

On top of that, it boasts a 45-point cross-type phase-detection that locks on fast-moving objects resulting in ultra-clear shots.

The camera makes it easy to stream photos online.

Just use the EOS utility webcam for either mac or windows and you will turn this rig into a top-quality webcam that sends videos straight to Facebook, YouTube, Instagram, and other social media platforms.

So if you are a vlogger, this is the camera to go for.

Main features

  • 24.1 megapixel CMOS sensor
  • ISO range: 100-25600
  • 45-point cross-type phase detection
  • Shoots up to 7 frames per second
  • 4K capability
  • Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity 
  • Vari-angle touchscreen LCD
  • Lens kit included

Pros

  • Reliable for fast shooting
  • Crystal clear stills and videos
  • Easily shares media to social media sites
  • Smooth learning curve 
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Precise autofocus

Cons

  • Crops a little in 4k mode

4. Panasonic LUMIX FZ300 Long Zoom Digital Camera

If you are really dying for a 4K camera without spending an insane amount of money, check out Panasonic LUMIX FZ300 Long Zoom Digital Camera.

It shoots both 4k videos and photos. In fact, you can extract photos from your 4k videos in case there is a moment you don’t want to lose.

This gear is compact, yet packs image stabilization and diffraction compensation.

Results? Crisp-clear images that portray subjects in their faithful nature.

Its 24x full zoom range will perform to your expectations in low-light situations.

Quality-wise, Panasonic LUMIX FZ300 is rugged to comfortably handle the rigors that come with outdoor photography.

Plus, it is both splash and dustproof thanks to the seals covering every joint.

Main features

  • 12.1 megapixel
  • Wi-Fi connectivity 
  • 4K video
  • Hybrid image stabilization
  • Burst rate of 30 fps
  • Long zoom range
  • Depth-from-Defocus AF
  • Dust/splashproof
  • Point-and-shoot camera

Pros

  • Shoots high detailed 4K videos and photos
  • A high-sensitivity sensor that performs well at night
  • Shoots across an entire zoom range
  • An impressive high burst rate of 30 fps
  • Cancels camera shakes
  • Built-in connectivity for sharing media easily
  • Can be controlled remotely by a Wi-Fi-connected smartphone

Cons

  • No serious issues to report

5. Pentax K-70 Weather-Sealed DSLR Camera

Do not let the big names in this review dissuade you from checking out models like Pentax K-70 Weather-Sealed DSLR Camera.

On most platforms, including Amazon, this camera is mostly 5-star rated with barely any complaints.

This is the gear you need if you always find yourself working in bad weather.

Inside its weather-sealed body, it packs a well-endowed 24.24 megapixel filterless CMOS sensor for capturing memorable footage.

The LCD screen tilts and flips allowing you to take selfies and as well as attempt shooting at different angles.

For around $500, Pentax K-70 Weather-Sealed DSLR Camera is equipped to reduce camera shakes and still works exceptionally well at night.

Even better, its body is compact for all-day shooting.

Main features

  • 24-megapixel CMOS sensor
  • 6fps continuous shooting
  • Hybrid autofocus
  • In body shake correction
  • Dustproof and weather-resistant
  • Vary angle
  • Wireless WLAN connection

Pros

  • Extremely good autofocus
  • Effectively suppresses shutter noise
  • Reliable ISO
  • Great color rendition 
  • Ergonomic controls that can be operated with gloves 

Cons

  • No serious flaws

6. Canon EOS 80D Digital SLR Camera 

If you are a serial YouTuber or a logger and would like a camera that you can easily turn into a webcam, try Canon EOS 80D Digital SLR Camera.

You only need EOS utility webcam beta software and it will work on both Windows and Mac.

But you are possibly wondering, how good is it?

Well, like most others, it comes with a 24.2 megapixel CMOS sensor whose resolution is powerful enough to deliver extremely detailed media.

On top of that, it has an intelligent viewfinder that displays both AF mode and AF points and grids of other info that you can choose to display or hide.

With a 45-point cross-type AF system, Canon EOS 80D Digital SLR is one of the best budget DSLR cameras you can confidently rely on for high-speed, precise shooting even in dim lighting. 

Furthermore, this is a low-luminance gear. This means it is compatible with many EF lenses which can stretch the AF system to a max of 27 points.

As a result, photographers will never miss anything.

With such extreme versatility, you can understand why vloggers and YouTubers will love this camera.

Main features

  • 24.2 megapixel CMOS sensor
  • 45-point all cross AF
  • DIGIC 6 image processor 
  • Rotating touchscreen monitor
  • 4 types of AF mode
  • Built-in wireless connectivity
  • Intelligent viewfinder 

Pros

  • Intelligently lets photographers pick or omit some footage info
  • Robust resolution for class-leading performance
  • Can share media straight to online platforms
  • Performs reliably in dim lighting
  • Excellent processing speed thanks to the wide ISO
  • Versatile to be used almost anywhere
  • Tracks smoothly in live view 

Cons

  • Its dynamic range may weaken in bright highlights
  • Can feel a tad expensive for first-timers

7. Nikon D500 DX-Format Digital SLR

Nikon D500 DX-Format Digital SLR is an unrivaled powerhouse that is equipped with class-leading technology.

Do not let its unimposing compact design fool you.

If you pop the hood open, you meet a very dedicated 20.9-megapixel DX sensor that captures the life beauty in its full color and structure—whether that is an African safari or the lush exterior.

With this marvelous project of Nikon’s dedicated efforts, you cannot miss life’s fleeting moments.

Why? It comes with an Expeed 5 processor that runs at 10fps so every memory is recorded. 

And while all the other cameras in this review have reliable autofocus systems, the one for this camera is absolutely mind-bending.

A whopping 153AF points with 99 cross-type points. So basically, you can capture images that exactly match your vision.

Nikon D500 DX-Format Digital SLR is an owl that dominates the night.

It boasts an amazing 100-51,200 ISO range that can be stretched all the way to 1640000.

So yes, you will see your subjects in their full glamor. And once your data is ready for transfer, you can leverage Wi-Fi, NFC, or Bluetooth.

Main features

  • 20.9 DX type CMOS sensor
  • Expeed 5 image sensor
  • 3.2 inches dot tilting touchscreen
  • Records 4K video at 30fps
  • Reflex viewfinder 
  • Built-in NFC, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi
  • 51200 ISO that can extend to 1640000
  • In-camera time-lapse
  • 153-point AF system

Pros

  • Compact and ultra-light
  • Amazing clarity up to cinematic standards
  • Rugged to explore the vast outdoors
  • Performs exceptionally well in the dark
  • Multiple connectivity options
  • Extremely fast processor

Cons

  • It does cost a lot though totally worth it

8. Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm Lens

The Canon Rebel line has been one of the most reliable gears for YouTubers and other loggers.

They are also great for general use.

Another version that is relatively cheap is the Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera.

The camera delivers very good quality images both at home and when you are traveling.

Even at greater ISO, you can rest assured the images won’t be grainy.

It also holds itself pretty well when shooting fast-moving objects.

But you must play nice with the shutter speed; otherwise, you can get blurry images.

Canon EOS Rebel T7 feels comfortable and it’s got both Wi-Fi and NFC for data transfer.

If you link it to Canon’s EOS webcam utility, you can easily turn it into a webcam that is compatible with both Mac and Windows.

It’s really one of the cheapest logging cameras you’ll get in mint condition.

Unfortunately, it might not be ideal for high-end video production because it lacks 4K support and has limited frame rate options.

If you wish for better results, we’d recommend you check out its next sibling- Canon EOS Rebel T7i

At a slightly higher cost, 7Ti gives you a better autofocus system, vari-angle touchscreen monitor, microphone port, faster burst shooting, and expanded ISO (not that important as photos become grainy).

Main features

  • 24.1 MP CMOS sensor
  • Full HD videos
  • DIGIC 4 image processor
  • Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC
  • 9-point autofocusing system
  • ISO range:100-6400
  • Image stabilization
  • Scene intelligent auto mode

Pros

  • Stellar image quality
  • Comfortable ergonomics
  • Versatile to serve on multiple occasions
  • Confidently shoots well in any light
  • Compatible with many of Canon’s EF and EF-S lenses

Cons

  • Limited high-end video functions
  • Short battery life

9. Nikon D5600 DX-Format Digital SLR w/AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm

Ever since it came out in 2017, Nikon D5600 DX-Format Digital SLR has been a reliable companion to many photographers.

It’s an ideal choice for anyone looking for a large vari-angle touchscreen monitor, richly detailed images, and a generous AF system.

The SnapBridge technology is also a huge selling point of this camera. It lets you use your smartphone to remotely shoot photos from a distance.

The photos can be instantly stored on a smartphone or tablet for quick sharing.

Nikon D5600 DX-Format Digital SLR comes with enough external controls so you don’t have to puzzle around with the menu system.

In fact, there’s an “I” quick feature that when you press, brings forth all the important settings like ISO and image quality.

The lens comes with is very sharp and useful in many scenarios.

Main features

  • 24MP sensor
  • Expeed 4 image processor
  • 39-point AF system
  • Vary angle touchscreen
  • 1080p video quality
  • ISO 100-25600
  • SnapBridge Bluetooth, WIFI, and NFC
  • Built-in flash

Pros

  • High-quality optical viewfinder
  • Generous ISO for outstanding night shots
  • Can be operated remotely
  • Intuitive controls
  • Multiple in-camera tools for unlimited creative potential
  • Reliable battery life
  • Lightweight construction

Cons

  • No 4K quality
  • The SnapBridge technology could use some refinement

10. Nikon D5300 24.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm NIKKOR Zoom Lens

Like its brother, Nikon D5600 above, Nikon D5300 is also armed with a powerful 24mp DX-format CMOS sensor that guarantees exquisite shots.

It has a 39-point AF system that lets photographers select their point of interest in each and every photo.

The ISO is good. At 100-12800, you don’t need to worry about grainy faults in your photos.

Plus, you will rest easy when the night falls knowing the camera will still deliver to your expectations.

Since this is a less pricey rig, it only shoots in 1080p and 720p.

The final footage, however, comes in friendly MPEG-4/H.264.

The three most important features it doesn’t sacrifice include vari-angle screen, Wi-Fi, and GPS.

Note that the camera allows the production of raw footage for those who like to do post-editing production.

Main features

  • 24-megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor (no optical low-pass filter
  • 3.2 inches vari-angle LCD screen 
  • Built-in Wi-Fi
  • 39-point AF system
  • 5fps continuous shooting
  • 100-12800 ISO that is expandable to 25600
  • 3D tracking & 3D metering
  • Full HD videos
  • GPS 

Pros

  • Produces rich-colored sharp images 
  • Allows instant photo sharing
  • Compact and ergonomic design
  • Comfortably places dials and buttons
  • Rugged for extreme performance

Cons

  • Doesn’t shoot 4K quality

11. Canon Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D)

Canon Rebel T6 is a truly unique case.

You see, a brand new one goes for over $450- the same price as a newer Canon T7 model.

Yet, the latter has a 24-megapixel sensor and the T6 has a dismal 18MP. 

So anyone who goes T6 is probably confused by a long line of Canon’s EOS models. The good thing is, you can rarely find a new one.

Many of those existing in the market are either used or refurbished.

Now, if you can get a refurbished or used Canon Rebel T6, then that would be a solid deal as many go for lower than $300.

Considering it captures stellar pictures, has built-in connectivity, better ISO, and pretty much everything in T7, it is worth going for a second-hand choice.

Main features

  • 18-megapixel CMOS sensor
  • DIGIC 4+ image processor 
  • 920k-dot LCD screen
  • Pentamirror viewfinder
  • ISO 100-6400 can stretch to 12800
  • 1080p video resolution
  • Scene Intelligent Auto Mode
  • Wi-Fi and NFC capability
  • Zoom lens

Pros

  • Performs well in both low and excess light conditions
  • Great image quality
  • Reliable connectivity channels
  • Razor-sharp optical viewfinder
  • Quite affordable as a used or renewed model 

Cons

  • A new model is unnecessarily expensive
  • The screen doesn’t flip  

12. Pentax KP 24.32 Ultra-Compact Weatherproof DSLR

Pentax has a really good line of dependable DSLR rigs.

Besides the K-70, there is also Pentax KP 24.32 Ultra-Compact DSLR. It already has a powerful 24-megapixel sensor that should put your image quality worries at rest.

Perhaps the winning point of this gear is its ability to offer high-end control.

It bears 3 separate dials that you can use to adjust the camera’s settings. This is a feature you get in top dogs that cost upwards of $2000.

The only depressing aspect about Pentax KP 24.32 Ultra-Compact DSLR is all about value.

It costs twice as much as some of the best deals in this review like Canon 77D, and Canon T7i.

Bear in mind that even its own sibling, Pentax K70 has almost the same core features.

Nevertheless, if you can meet the budget, Pentax KP’s stellar build quality and amazing control can provide an immersive shooting experience. 

Main features

  • 24.3 MP filterless CMOS sensor
  • ISO: 819200
  • Built-in Wi-Fi
  • 5 levels of shake reduction
  • Weather-resistant design

Pros

  • Fantastic photo quality
  • Weatherproof construction
  • Easy to use
  • Best ISO quality
  • Amazing stability
  • Performs well in dim light

Cons

  • Lacks 4K quality
  • Relatively expensive compared to its peers

13. Nikon D7500 DX-Format Digital SLR Body

Pro photographers hate to cut corners with their work. This is because a majority of them get pleasure from their work.

But sometimes budget constraints get in the way—and that’s life.

But guess what; for less than $1000, the Nikon D7500 DX-Format Digital SLR camera provides class-leading performance.

It’s one of the best budget DSLR cameras with 4K capability, exceptional image processing, and metering that hinges close to Nikon’s award-winning D500.

Every photographer relishes some control over their rigs.

With a 51-point AF system that includes 15 cross-type sensors, this camera lets you pick the exact points you want to shoot.

That’s extremely marvelous if you would ask us.

Nikon D7500 DX-Format Digital SLR goes over and above to offer time-lapse videos with stereo sound. 

Furthermore, you can shoot footage in autofocus mode-but you must know what you are doing to get the best results.

Main features

  • 20.9 MP CMOS sensor
  • 51-point AF system ( 15 cross-type sensors)
  • 922k dot, tilting touchscreen
  • 100-51200 ISO range
  • Multiple shooting modes
  • Shoots in 4k and 1080p as well as the time-lapse mode
  • 8fps continuous shooting
  • Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity

Pros

  • A very powerful focusing system
  • Brilliant metering
  • A generous number of shooting modes
  • Extensively sealed to withstand dust and moisture
  • A rugged, durable design to serve for years
  • Excellent energy efficiency
  • Compact with great ergonomics
  • Convenient connectivity channels

Cons

  • The price tag may be a bit too steep for complete beginners

14. Pentax K-1 Mark II Full Frame DSLR Camera

Here is another professional-grade advanced camera on a budget- Pentax K-1 Mark II Full Frame DSLR Camera.

If you are a beginner on a really tight budget, this camera might not be ideal for you.

It’s for expert photographers, who, for some reason, cannot spend much on high-end gear but are also careful not to penny-pinch.

Hear this; this is the only camera in this review with an insanely empowered 36mp image sensor.

The pictures it delivers are magnificently detailed with subtle shades, mind-bending bokeh, and next-level depth.

As you can guess, each shot comes out reflecting the true nature of your subjects.

Pentax K-1 Mark II is one of Pentax’s flagship models.

As such, you get awesome features like reduced noise, increased image sharpness, and faster focusing at a fairly cheap price.

The interior components are encased in a magnesium alloy body making the camera bold enough to brace tough weather and rough handling.

Main features

  • 36MP filterless sensor with shake reduction
  • Engine accelerometer (for faster focusing, noise reduction, and increased image sharpness)
  • Vary angle touchscreen
  • Astro tracer exposure mode
  • Magnesium alloy body

Pros

  • Produces extremely detailed images
  • Impressive durability and weather resistance
  • Superb bokeh rendition
  • Stellar ergonomics
  • Advanced image stabilization
  • Faster and reliable autofocus
  • Compact and lightweight

Cons

  • Its price tag may not be friendly to beginners

15. Canon EOS 90D

Hello to all professional vloggers, bloggers, and travelers.

May we draw your attention for a second to this illustrious camera; Canon EOS 90D.

Do you know how a cup of coffee, espresso, or beer feels on a chilly evening?

It doesn’t matter if you don’t take any of those but here is the thing; Canon EOS 90D is sensationally glorious.

This is a versatile gear that knows no bounds.

Whether you want to shoot eagles in the sky, wildlife, a crowd of folks at a Disney event, or anything; this gear is Eveready.

With an unreliably stunning 32 megapixels, this rig has helped photographers produce high-resolution images in their life-like forms.

What’s better, you can crop the images without losing quality.

The dual-pixel CMOS sensor takes this camera to a whole new level of sophistication.

It is swift, and accurate, and can even lock on your subject’s eye, resulting in expressively detailed portraits and movies.

So before you ask, yes, this is a point-and-shoot gear that will come in handy in fast-paced instances like sports and wildlife.

As you already know, the costlier the camera, the more autofocus points it comes with.

Guess how many Canon EOS 90D has? Will help you out-5481 manually selectable AF points.

That’s a heck lot and offers photographers the thrill to shoot any specific area they feel like. So even if your subject hinges to the corners, you’ll still snap it.

Now, if you take a gear like Nikon D3300, it cost around $500 and has a measly 11 AF points. It’s pretty much limiting.

There is quite a lot to say about this camera from its multi-controller customization to convenient connectivity.

To cut this long story short, if you go for Canon EOS 90D, expect nothing short of perfection.

Main features

  • Dual-pixel CMOS sensor
  • DIGIC 8 image processor
  • Bluetooth and Wi-Fi equipped
  • 4K video quality
  • 3-inches vari-angle touch LCD
  • Connects with EOS’ webcam utility for streaming
  • 11 frames per second burst mode

Pros

  • Exceptionally amazing images and 4K videos
  • Comes with a battery grip-an aspect many cameras ignore
  • An upgraded fast burst mode
  • A fairly strong battery capacity
  • Designed to withstand bad weather and rough use
  • It comes with a thumbstick even though it’s a budget DSLR
  • Convenient connectivity channels

Cons

  • Lackluster buffer depth
  • At its price, one card slot is a bummer

16. Canon EOS 6D Mark II

A product full of five-star reviews is usually a hallmark of universal satisfaction, don’t you agree?

If you are an enthusiast or pro photographer, you normally don’t want to spend a lot and end up with a displeasing experience.

One of the best budget DSLR cameras with a lot of 5-star reviews is Canon EOS 6D Mark II.

You can never go wrong with this gear. It has everything you could ever wish for-super sensor, a great ISO range, and convenient connectivity options.

The Dual-pixel CMOS sensor guarantees fast and precise phase-detection-even in lie view.

It too has a generous AF point that lets photographers pick any section they wish to capture.

Canon EOS 6D Mark II is a professional-grade gear worth looking into—especially if you are a night owl.

The only issue is that some of the lenses it supports tend to be pricey. Nevertheless, it is an exceptional powerhouse as the EOS 90D above.

Main features

  • 26.2MP DIGIC 7 image sensor
  • 45-point AF system (cross-type)
  • Full-frame DSLR
  • High-speed CMOS sensor
  • Wireless and GPS capability
  • 6fps continuous shooting
  • 100-40000 ISO range
  • Vari-angle touchscreen LCD
  • Dust & water-resistant

 Pros

  • Lightweight and durable
  • The screen tilts to capture images from different angles
  • Weather-sealed for uninterrupted performance
  • Shoots in ultra-clear 4K and Full HD
  • Generous AF points

 Cons

  • The price is a little on the higher side for beginners

17. Pentax K-3 Mark III Flagship APS-C Camera

If you are a fan of Pentax models, another of their flagship rigs for seasoned photographers is Pentax K-3 Mark III Flagship APS-C Camera.

It packs the most recent technology like shake reduction, noise filtering, wide viewing angle, and top ISO sensitivity.

Working at 12 frames per second, this camera is ideal for sports, wildlife, and other fast-paced events.

Nevertheless, it is still versatile enough to accompany you on other day-to-day photography occasions.

But maybe you are wondering, why the slight difference in price between K-1 and K-3?

Well K-3 has pretty much the same features as K-1 apart from the additional 1.05x image magnification and a lower, 25MP.

K-1 has 36MP which makes its footage far more detailed. All in all, you won’t go wrong with either.

 Main features

  • 25MP sensor
  • 12fps continuous shooting mode
  • 1.05x image magnification
  • 100% field of view
  • Pentax shake reduction
  • 95 weather-element seals
  • Made from high-strength magnesium alloy
  • LCD touchscreen

 Pros

  • Comes with a dual SD card slot
  • Increased AF for accurate subject capture
  • You can review images on the LCD touchscreen
  • Robustly sealed to prevent water and dust intrusion
  • Made from long-lasting magnesium alloy material
  • Excellent low-light performance

 Cons

  • Could be costly for first-time photographers

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a digital single-lens reflex camera work?

The process begins with light entering the camera through the lens.

When the shutter is released, the light hits a reflex mirror which further transmits it to the image sensor and the image gets captured.

What’s the difference between DSLR and mirrorless cameras?

DSLR cameras are not that different from mirrorless models. The only difference is that the latter lacks a mirror.

So light hits directly the image sensor. As for DSLR, light has to hit the mirror and then get directed to the image sensor.

How much do the best budget DSLR cameras cost?

On average, you may spend around $700 for a budget DSLR camera.

However, less sophisticated systems and renewed models are way cheaper, usually below $500.

Fairly advanced mid-budget cameras can stretch to $1000 or a bit more.

What are the disadvantages of DSLR cameras?

The biggest disadvantage of DSLR cameras is that the existence of the mirror means what you are seeing on the viewfinder may differ a little from what will be exposed on the image sensor.

However such discrepancies can be fixed during editing.

Which is better, mirrorless, or DSLR?

DSLR rigs may be considered old school but they are extremely durable, versatile (due to interchangeable lens), go easy on the battery, and are cheaper.

The problem comes in when focusing during video shooting; many are a tad heavy too.

Mirrorless, on the hand, are compact, lighter, and very good at shooting videos. But they are costlier.

So it’s up to the user’s preference and budget.

Which is the best DSLR camera for home use?

You don’t need fancy gear for home and leisure street photography. As such, any model below $500 will do just fine.

Excellent examples include Canon EOS 80D, Canon PowerShot SX430 is, Kodak PIXPRO Astro Zoom AZ252-WH, and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-H300 20.1 MP Digital Camera.

Should you buy a DSLR as a bundle?

The problem with being a beginner is that you are pretty much at the mercy of circumstances.

You can buy a camera alone and end up buying incompatible lenses or accessories.

The beauty of purchasing a bundle is that the camera comes with the right lenses and accessories letting you jump straight into the action.

There’s just one problem; some of those items are overpriced. 

Final Thoughts

There are many advantages to having the best budget DSLR cameras.

Obviously, the first one has to do with cost. You don’t get to dent your bank account for a professional standard rig.

Secondly, their ability to accommodate different lenses allows photographers a versatile experience.

Not to forget, their durability is outstanding. 

However, the right DSLR for you will depend on the subject you intend to shoot and the existing situation.

But armed with the information in this article and the reviews recommended, it becomes easier to pick the right camera!

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