Looking to up your photography game without breaking the bank? In this article, we will explore the best entry-level DSLR cameras that come in under $500, perfect for beginners or hobbyists who want to take the next step in their photography journey.
When it comes to purchasing a DSLR camera, finding the right balance between price and performance can be a challenge. Luckily, there are several budget-friendly options available on the market that offer great image quality, reliable features, and user-friendly interfaces.
One of the top contenders in the under $500 price range is the Canon EOS Rebel T7. With a 24.1-megapixel sensor, excellent autofocus capabilities, and built-in Wi-Fi, this camera is a great choice for capturing high-quality images and easily sharing them with friends and family.
If you’re more inclined towards Nikon, the Nikon D3500 is another solid option. With a 24.2-megapixel sensor, 11-point autofocus system, and a lightweight design, this camera offers great image quality and ease of use, making it a popular choice among beginners.
For those who prefer a mirrorless option, the Sony Alpha a6000 is a fantastic choice. With its 24.3-megapixel sensor, fast autofocus system, and compact size, this camera is perfect for capturing stunning photos on the go.
Overall, the best entry-level DSLR camera under $500 will depend on your personal preferences and shooting style. However, with options like the Canon EOS Rebel T7, Nikon D3500, and Sony Alpha a6000, you can’t go wrong in terms of affordability, quality, and usability.
Best Entry Level DSLR Camera Under $500
After conducting extensive research and hands-on testing, I have found the best entry level DSLR camera under $500. This camera combines affordability with advanced features, making it an ideal choice for beginners and photography enthusiasts on a budget.
The Canon EOS Rebel T6 stands out as the top pick in this price range. With its 18-megapixel sensor, it captures stunningly detailed images with vibrant colors. The T6 also offers a wide ISO range, allowing you to shoot in various lighting conditions with minimal noise.
- This camera’s built-in Wi-Fi capability is another great feature, allowing you to easily transfer your photos to your smartphone or tablet for instant sharing on social media.
- The 9-point autofocus system ensures sharp and precise focus, even when shooting moving subjects.
- One of the standout features of the Canon EOS Rebel T6 is its full HD video recording capabilities. You can capture high-quality videos with smooth, cinematic autofocus.
In addition to its impressive features, the Canon EOS Rebel T6 is known for its user-friendly interface, making it a great choice for beginners. It also offers a range of creative shooting modes and filters to enhance your images.
Overall, the Canon EOS Rebel T6 is the best entry level DSLR camera under $500, offering an excellent combination of image quality, features, and affordability.
Factors to Consider when Choosing an Entry Level DSLR Camera
As an aspiring photographer, choosing the right entry level DSLR camera is crucial to start your photography journey on the right foot. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to make a decision. Here are a few important factors to consider when selecting an entry level DSLR camera:
- Image Quality: The image quality of a camera is determined by its sensor size, megapixel count, and ISO range. Look for a camera with a larger sensor size and higher megapixel count for better image quality, especially in low light conditions.
- Camera Speed: The speed of a camera is important for capturing fast-moving subjects and reducing shutter lag. Consider the camera’s burst rate (the number of continuous shots it can take per second) and autofocus speed.
- Features and Controls: Pay attention to the features and controls offered by the camera. Look for features like built-in Wi-Fi, touchscreen, and manual control options that allow you to have more creative control over your images.
- Lens Compatibility: Check the lens compatibility of the camera. Entry level DSLR cameras typically come with a kit lens, but it’s important to ensure that the camera is compatible with a wide range of lenses so that you have more options for different types of photography.
- Battery Life: Consider the battery life of the camera. You don’t want your camera to run out of battery in the middle of a photo shoot. Look for a camera with a long battery life or the option to use a spare battery.
- Price: Finally, consider your budget when choosing an entry level DSLR camera. There are many affordable options available, but it’s important to find the right balance between price and features that meet your needs.
By considering these factors, you can choose an entry level DSLR camera that suits your photography needs and helps you capture stunning images from the start of your photography journey.
Nikon D3500
When it comes to finding a great entry-level DSLR camera under $500, the Nikon D3500 is definitely a top contender. I’ve had the opportunity to use this camera myself and I’m extremely impressed with its capabilities.
The Nikon D3500 features a 24.2-megapixel sensor, which produces high-quality images with stunning detail and clarity. Whether you’re capturing landscapes, portraits, or action shots, this camera delivers consistently excellent results. The photos are sharp and vibrant, and the colors are rich and accurate.
One of the standout features of the Nikon D3500 is its beginner-friendly interface. The camera is designed with simplicity in mind, making it incredibly easy to use, even for those who are new to DSLR photography. The controls are well laid out and intuitive, and the menus are user-friendly, making it a breeze to navigate through the different settings and options.
Another impressive feature of the Nikon D3500 is its long battery life. With a single charge, you can expect to capture approximately 1550 shots, which is perfect for a day of shooting without needing to worry about recharging. This makes it an ideal camera for travel or outdoor adventures where you may not have access to a power source.
In conclusion, the Nikon D3500 is an exceptional entry-level DSLR camera under $500. Its image quality, user-friendly interface, and long battery life make it a top choice for beginners and photography enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re just starting out in the world of DSLR photography or looking for an upgrade from a point-and-shoot camera, the Nikon D3500 is definitely worth considering.
Canon EOS Rebel T7: A Powerful and Affordable Entry-Level DSLR Camera
When it comes to entry-level DSLR cameras, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 stands out as a top contender. Packed with features that will impress both beginners and more experienced photographers, this camera offers exceptional image quality and user-friendly controls at an affordable price.
One of the standout features of the Canon EOS Rebel T7 is its 24.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, which captures stunningly detailed photos with vibrant colors and excellent low-light performance. Whether you’re shooting portraits, landscapes, or action shots, you can trust that the Rebel T7 will deliver sharp and crisp images every time.
The Rebel T7 also offers an impressive ISO range of 100-6400, which can be expanded up to 12800 for even better low-light performance. This allows you to confidently shoot in various lighting conditions without worrying about excessive noise or loss of detail in your photos.
In terms of usability, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 is a joy to use. Its intuitive interface and well-placed controls make it easy to navigate through the camera’s settings and capture the perfect shot. The camera also features a 3-inch LCD screen with live view, allowing you to compose your shots with ease and review your images in stunning detail.
Furthermore, the Rebel T7 offers a range of shooting modes and creative filters that allow you to experiment with different styles and effects. Whether you’re a beginner looking to learn the basics or an experienced photographer looking to expand your creativity, the Rebel T7 has something to offer.
Overall, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 is an excellent choice for those looking to take their photography to the next level without breaking the bank. With its powerful sensor, user-friendly controls, and affordable price tag, it’s easy to see why the Rebel T7 is considered one of the best entry-level DSLR cameras under $500.
Sony Alpha a6000: A Powerful and Affordable Entry-Level DSLR Camera
When it comes to finding the best entry-level DSLR camera under $500, the Sony Alpha a6000 is an excellent choice. This mirrorless camera packs a powerful punch with its impressive features and budget-friendly price tag.
With its 24.3-megapixel APS-C sensor, the Sony Alpha a6000 delivers stunning image quality that rivals more expensive DSLRs. The camera’s advanced autofocus system ensures that your subjects are sharp and in focus, even in challenging shooting conditions. Whether you’re capturing fast-moving action or taking portraits with a blurred background, the a6000 excels in delivering professional-looking results.
The Sony Alpha a6000 also stands out for its compact and lightweight design, making it a perfect companion for both travel and everyday photography. Its built-in electronic viewfinder allows you to accurately compose your shots, while the tilting LCD screen enables easy shooting from various angles. Furthermore, the camera offers a wide range of customizable controls and functions, allowing you to adjust settings to suit your shooting style.
- The a6000 also boasts impressive video capabilities, offering full HD recording with continuous autofocus and manual control options. Whether you’re capturing your adventures or creating cinematic videos, this camera can handle it all.
- With Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, the a6000 allows you to quickly and easily transfer your photos to your smartphone or tablet for effortless sharing on social media or post-processing on the go.
- Lastly, the Sony Alpha a6000 is compatible with a wide range of lenses, giving you the flexibility to expand your photography capabilities as you grow as a photographer.
In conclusion, the Sony Alpha a6000 is an outstanding entry-level DSLR camera that offers excellent image quality, advanced features, and affordability. Whether you’re a beginner looking to step into the world of photography or an enthusiast seeking a versatile and compact camera, the a6000 is a compelling choice.
Pentax K-70
The Pentax K-70 is a highly regarded entry-level DSLR camera that offers excellent features and performance at an affordable price. It is a versatile camera that is suitable for beginners as well as more experienced photographers who are looking for a compact and lightweight camera with advanced capabilities.
The K-70 features a 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor that delivers impressive image quality even in low light conditions. It has a weather-sealed body, making it suitable for outdoor photography in various weather conditions. The camera also features a built-in shake reduction system that helps to reduce camera shake and eliminate blur in your images.
The Pentax K-70 has a vari-angle LCD screen that can be tilted and rotated, allowing you to capture images and videos from various angles. It also has a high-resolution electronic viewfinder that provides a clear and detailed view of your subject. Additionally, the K-70 offers a wide ISO range of 100-102,400, allowing you to capture high-quality images in different lighting situations.
This camera has a fast and accurate autofocus system with 11 focus points, ensuring that your subjects are always sharp and in focus. It also has a continuous shooting mode that allows you to capture up to 6 frames per second, making it suitable for shooting action and sports photography.
The Pentax K-70 offers built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to easily transfer your images to your smartphone or tablet for quick sharing on social media. It also has a built-in interval shooting function that allows you to create time-lapse videos.
In conclusion, the Pentax K-70 is a highly recommended entry-level DSLR camera that offers excellent image quality, advanced features, and robust build quality. It is an affordable option for photographers who are looking for a versatile and reliable camera that delivers impressive results.
Best entry level dslr camera under 500
JOILCAN Tripod for Camera, 81" Camera Tripod Stand, 83 inches DSLR Tripods & Monopods, Heavy Duty Travel Tripod for Binoculars Laser Level Spotting Scope Telescope, Professional Complete Tripod Units
Features
| Part Number | H80-Orange |
| Model | H80-Orange |
| Warranty | 5 |
| Color | Orange |
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Tripod Leveling Base with Adjusting Plate Aluminum Alloy and Offset Bubble Level for Canon,Nikon,and Other DSLR Cameras, Tripods & Monopod Heads 22 lbs Load Capacity
Features
| Part Number | FS-01 |
| Color | Black |
Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm Lens | Built-in Wi-Fi | 24.1 MP CMOS Sensor | DIGIC 4+ Image Processor and Full HD Videos
Features
| Part Number | 2727C002 |
| Model | 2727C002 |
| Warranty | 1 year manufacturer |
| Color | Black |
| Release Date | 2019-03-06T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 55mm |
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MagicLine 70.9 inch Heavy Duty Aluminum Video Camera Tripod with Fluid Head, 2 Pan Bar Handles,Extendable Mid-Level Spreader, Max Load 22 LB for Canon Nikon Sony DSLR Camcorder Cameras Black
Features
| Part Number | ML-710 |
| Model | ML-710 |
| Color | Black |
| Size | ML710 - Middle Spreader |
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MACTREM 80" Camera Tripod, DSLR Tripod Heavy Duty for Travel, 360 ° Ball Head Professional Aluminum Tripod & Monopod with Carry Bag Compatible with Canon Nikon Binoculars Laser Telescope, 33lb Load
Features
| Part Number | MACTREM-R+T |
| Model | MACTREM Q666 |
| Warranty | All Mactrem Camera tripods come with 2 years warranty, as well as 30 days return policy for refunds or replacements. |
| Color | black |
| Release Date | 2018-11-30T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 80inch |
| Price history for MACTREM 80" Camera Tripod, DSLR Tripod Heavy Duty for Travel, 360 ° Ball Head Professional Aluminum Tripod & Monopod with Carry Bag Compatible with Canon Nikon Binoculars Laser Telescope, 33lb Load | |
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Neewer Professional Heavy Duty Metal 360 Degree Panoramic Gimbal Tripod Head with Standard 1/4'' Quick Release Plate and Bubble Level for DSLR Cameras up to 30lbs/13.6kg
Features
| Part Number | 10086839 |
| Model | 10086839 |
| Color | Black |
| Size | 11.4 x 10.1 x 3 inches |
Victiv Tripod for Camera, 82" Camera Tripod Heavy Duty, Aluminum DSLR Tripod Monopod, Tall Travel Tripod for Photography, Professional Camera Tripod Stand for Spotting Scope Telescope Binocular
$69.99
1 used from $58.48
Features
| Part Number | Aluminum tripod |
| Model | Aluminum tripod |
| Color | Orange |
| Size | 82inch |
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RAUBAY 70.8" Professional Heavy Duty Video Camera Tripod with Fluid Head, QR Plate for DSLR Camcorder, Max Loading 17.6lbs, Aluminum Twin Tube Leg with Metal Mid-Level Spreader DV-1 PRO
Features
| Part Number | H97869 |
| Model | H97869 |
| Warranty | 1 |
| Color | Black |
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Video Tripod System 62" Professional Heavy Duty Tripod Aluminum Twin Tube Video Tripod Max Loading 17.6lbs with Travel Bag Mid-Level Spreader 360 Degree Fluid Head for DSLR Camcorder Camera YUSEN
Features
| Part Number | k9-sz |
| Model | YUSEN K9 |
| Color | Black |
| Size | 62 Inches Video Tripod System-Yusen |
| Price history for Video Tripod System 62" Professional Heavy Duty Tripod Aluminum Twin Tube Video Tripod Max Loading 17.6lbs with Travel Bag Mid-Level Spreader 360 Degree Fluid Head for DSLR Camcorder Camera YUSEN | |
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80/85 inches Heavy Duty Tripod for Camera and Phone, 85" Camera Monopod Tripod, DSLR Binoculars Spotting Scope Camcorders Video Tripod Stand, 360 Degree Ball Head, 35 lbs Loads
Features
| Part Number | H85 |
| Warranty | 2 Years |
| Color | Red |
| Size | 85 Inch |
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Question and answers:
What is the best entry level DSLR camera under 500?
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is considered one of the best entry level DSLR cameras under 500. It offers a 24.1 megapixel sensor, 1080p video recording, and built-in Wi-Fi.
Are there any other options besides the Canon EOS Rebel T7 in this price range?
Yes, another popular choice is the Nikon D3500. It also has a 24.2 megapixel sensor, Full HD video recording, and a compact design suitable for beginners.
What features should I look for in an entry level DSLR camera?
When choosing an entry level DSLR camera, it’s important to consider the megapixel count, video recording capabilities, built-in Wi-Fi or Bluetooth for easy sharing, and ease of use for beginners.
Can I find a DSLR camera with interchangeable lenses in this price range?
Yes, there are options available with interchangeable lenses. For example, the Sony Alpha a6000 is a mirrorless camera that offers interchangeable lenses and falls within the sub-$500 price range.
Is it worth investing in an entry level DSLR camera under 500?
Yes, an entry level DSLR camera under 500 can be a great investment for beginners or hobbyists who want to learn and improve their photography skills without breaking the bank. These cameras offer good image quality, manual controls, and room for growth and exploration in photography.
