Last updated on December 5th, 2023
Are you eager to dive into DSLR photography but need help deciding which new camera to choose? In today’s digital era, capturing stunning photos with a smartphone has become increasingly common. However, if you’re passionate about exploring photography as a hobby or profession, it’s time to consider a DSLR camera. This blog post will serve as your ultimate guide to the top 7 entry-level DSLRs for beginners.
It would be best to have a reliable entry-level DSLR camera, an essential to embark on your photography journey. We have curated ten exceptional cameras catering to novices or those seeking to experiment with photography. Each camera boasts outstanding features at budget-friendly prices, ensuring you stay within the bank while pursuing your creative aspirations.
Overall Best Entry level DSLR Camera
Canon EOS Rebel T8i
The Canon EOS Rebel T8i is a fantastic entry-level DSLR for several reasons. With a 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor and the powerful DIGIC 8 image processor, this camera delivers exceptional image quality for beginners looking to take their photography skills to the next level.
One of the most notable features of the T8i is its 3.0″ 1.04m-dot vari-angle touchscreen. This flexible screen allows users to quickly compose shots from various angles, making it easier to capture unique perspectives. The camera’s UHD 4K24p video capabilities and vertical video support make it an excellent choice for aspiring videographers.
Focusing is a breeze with the T8i’s 45-point all-cross-type phase-detect autofocus (AF) system. Combined with Dual Pixel CMOS AF and Eye Detection, this camera provides fast and accurate focusing, ensuring your subjects are always sharp and focused.
The T8i performs well in various lighting conditions, offering an ISO range of 100-25600. With up to 7 fps continuous shooting, you can easily capture fast-moving subjects. Its built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities enable quick and easy sharing of your photos and videos with friends, family, or on social media platforms.
A unique feature of the T8i is its 220,000-pixel AE sensor, which aids in accurate exposure metering and helps to ensure properly exposed images. This camera’s impressive features and ease of use make it an excellent choice for those new to DSLR photography.
What We Like/Dislike About the Canon EOS Rebel T8i
| Like | Dislike |
|---|---|
| APS-C CMOS sensor | No 4K video at 30fps |
| Dual Pixel CMOS AF | Limited dynamic range |
| 45-point cross-type AF | Single SD card slot |
| Vari-angle touchscreen LCD | Slow burst rate in live view |
| Built-in Wi-Fi & Bluetooth | No in-body image stabilization |
| Guided interface for beginners | Plastic body construction |
What Consumers Are Saying
“The Canon Rebel T8i is a perfect entry-level DSLR for aspiring photographers, offering user-friendly features and excellent image quality.”
“With its responsive autofocus system, the Rebel T8i makes capturing stunning action shots and fast-moving subjects easy.”
“The T8i’s 4K video recording capabilities open new creative possibilities for budding filmmakers and content creators.”
Best Budget Entry-level DSLR Camera
Nikon D3500
The Nikon D3500 is an excellent choice for those seeking a budget-friendly entry-level DSLR that offers great value without compromising performance. This camera provides an ideal balance between affordability and quality, making it a popular option for beginners and hobbyist photographers.
Equipped with a 24.2MP DX-format CMOS sensor and the EXPEED 4 image processor, the D3500 delivers sharp, detailed images with accurate colors. The absence of an optical low-pass filter ensures maximum image sharpness, allowing users to capture stunning photographs even at an entry-level price point.
One of the most attractive features of the Nikon D3500 is its native ISO range of 100-25600, which enables the camera to perform well in various lighting conditions. With a continuous shooting speed of 5 fps, users can easily capture fast-paced action or fleeting moments.
The D3500 offers a 3.0″ 921k-dot LCD screen for framing and reviewing images, and it supports Full HD video 1080p recording at 60 fps. Its Multi-CAM 1000 11-point autofocus system ensures accurate focusing. The SnapBridge Bluetooth connectivity allows the seamless sharing of images and videos to your smartphone or other devices.
Nikon has designed the D3500 with ease of use in mind, featuring a Guide Mode that helps beginners learn the basics of photography and experiment with various settings. The camera also includes special effects that allow users to get creative with their images.
What We Like/Dislike About the Nikon D3500
| Like | Dislike |
|---|---|
| 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor | No touchscreen |
| Good image quality | No 4K video |
| 11-point AF system | Limited dynamic range |
| Compact and lightweight design | Single SD card slot |
| Built-in Bluetooth | No built-in Wi-Fi |
| Beginner-friendly interface | No in-body image stabilization |
| Excellent battery life |
What Consumers Are Saying
“The Nikon D3500 is an excellent choice for beginners, providing an intuitive interface and exceptional image quality at an affordable price.”
“The battery life on the Nikon D3500 is impressive, allowing me to shoot all day without worrying about running out of power.”
“I appreciate the helpful Guide Mode on the D3500, which makes it easy for new photographers to learn the ins and outs of DSLR photography.”
Runner Up Best Entry-level DSLR Camera
Nikon D7500
The Nikon D7500 is a great entry-level DSLR with advanced features and excellent performance, making it a compelling option for beginners eager to explore more in-depth photography techniques.
At the heart of the D7500 is a 20.9MP DX-format CMOS sensor paired with the powerful EXPEED 5 image processor. This combination enables the camera to produce stunning images with accurate colors and impressive detail. The camera’s 3.2″ 922k-dot tilting touchscreen LCD allows for easy composition and image review while offering the convenience of touch controls.
One of the standout features of the Nikon D7500 is its 4K UHD video recording at 30 fps, providing aspiring videographers with the ability to capture high-quality footage. The camera’s Multi-CAM 3500FX II 51-point autofocus system ensures fast and accurate focusing, even in challenging shooting conditions.
The D7500 boasts an impressive native ISO range of 100-51200, which can be expanded up to 1,640,000, allowing for exceptional low-light performance. Its 8 fps continuous shooting capability enables users to easily capture fast-moving subjects and fleeting moments.
Nikon’s SnapBridge technology allows for the seamless sharing of images and videos through Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity. Additionally, the D7500 features a 180k-pixel RGB sensor and Group Area AF, which enhance the camera’s autofocus performance and improve subject tracking.
The D7500 is also built with durability in mind, featuring a robust weather-sealed construction that protects it from dust, moisture, and other environmental factors. This makes it a reliable choice for those who want to take their photography to new locations and conditions.
What We Like/Dislike About the Nikon D7500
| Like | Dislike |
|---|---|
| 20.9MP APS-C CMOS sensor | No vari-angle touchscreen |
| 51-point AF system | No built-in flash |
| 4K UHD video at 30fps | Single SD card slot |
| 8fps continuous shooting | No in-body image stabilization |
| Weather-sealed body | Heavy compared to competitors |
| Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth | Limited buffer for RAW shooting |
| Advanced metering and autofocus |
What Consumers Are Saying
“The Nikon D7500 is a versatile and feature-rich DSLR, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts looking to step up their photography game.”
“With its impressive 51-point autofocus system, the D7500 consistently delivers sharp and stunning images.”
“I love the D7500’s 4K video capabilities, which allow me to capture high-quality footage for personal and professional projects.”
Honorable Mentions
Canon EOS Rebel T7i
The Canon EOS Rebel T7i is an outstanding entry-level DSLR that combines user-friendly features with excellent image quality, making it a popular choice for beginners looking into DSLR photography.
Featuring a 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor and the powerful DIGIC 7 image processor, the T7i is capable of producing stunning images with accurate colors and impressive detail. The camera’s 3.0″ 1.04m-dot vari-angle touchscreen allows for intuitive operation and easy composition from various angles.
Full HD 1080p video recording at 60 fps ensures that the T7i can capture high-quality videos, offering a versatile option for those interested in videography. The camera’s 45-point all cross-type phase-detect autofocus (AF) system, combined with Dual Pixel CMOS AF, guarantees fast and accurate focusing for both stills and videos.
With a continuous shooting speed of up to 6 fps and an ISO range of 100-51200, the T7i is well-equipped to handle various shooting scenarios, including fast-moving subjects and low-light situations. The camera’s built-in Wi-Fi with NFC and Bluetooth capabilities allow easy sharing of images and videos to your smartphone or other devices.
Innovative features like HDR Movie and Time-Lapse Movie modes enable users to explore different aspects of photography and videography with the T7i. The camera’s user-friendly interface makes it easy for beginners to learn and experiment with various settings and shooting modes.
What We Like/Dislike About the Canon EOS Rebel T7i
| Like | Dislike |
|---|---|
| 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor | No 4K video |
| Dual Pixel CMOS AF | Limited dynamic range |
| 45-point cross-type AF | Single SD card slot |
| Vari-angle touchscreen LCD | No in-body image stabilization |
| Built-in Wi-Fi & Bluetooth | Plastic body construction |
| Guided interface for beginners |
What Consumers Are Saying
“The T7i’s vari-angle touchscreen provides added flexibility when composing shots, making it easy to capture unique perspectives.”
“I appreciate the built-in Wi-Fi, NFC, and Bluetooth connectivity of the Rebel T7i, which simplify sharing and transferring images.”
“The T7i’s lightweight design and comfortable grip make it perfect for extended shooting sessions and travel photography.”
Canon EOS Rebel SL3
The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 is a compact and lightweight entry-level DSLR that offers a perfect blend of user-friendly features and impressive performance. Its compact size and ease of use make it an ideal choice for beginners and travelers looking to capture high-quality images without the bulk of a larger DSLR.
Equipped with a 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor and the powerful DIGIC 8 image processor, the SL3 delivers stunning images with accurate colors and impressive detail. Its 3.0″ 1.04m-dot vari-angle touchscreen provides flexibility when composing shots and offers intuitive controls for quick adjustments.
One of the standout features of the Rebel SL3 is its UHD 4K24p video recording capabilities and 4K time-lapse movie mode, which allow users to capture high-quality videos and create stunning time-lapse sequences. The camera’s 9-point autofocus system, complemented by Dual Pixel CMOS AF, ensures fast and accurate focusing in various shooting situations.
The SL3 offers an ISO range of 100-25600, providing good low-light performance for an entry-level DSLR. With a continuous shooting speed of up to 5 fps, users can easily capture fast-moving subjects. Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth enable the seamless sharing of images and videos to smartphones, tablets, or other devices.
What We Like/Dislike About the Canon EOS Rebel SL3
| Like | Dislike |
|---|---|
| 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor | Limited dynamic range |
| Dual Pixel CMOS AF | 9-point AF system |
| Compact and lightweight design | Single SD card slot |
| Vari-angle touchscreen LCD | No in-body image stabilization |
| 4K video at 24fps | Plastic body construction |
| Built-in Wi-Fi & Bluetooth |
What Consumers Are Saying
“The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 is a compact and lightweight DSLR, making it perfect for travel photography and those looking for a more portable option.”
“With its user-friendly interface and Feature Assistant, the SL3 is an excellent choice for beginners starting their journey in DSLR photography.”
“The 24.1-megapixel sensor on the Rebel SL3 captures stunning images with great detail and color reproduction.”
Pentax K-70
The Pentax K-70 is a robust, feature-packed entry-level DSLR with excellent image quality and performance. It is a fantastic choice for beginners and enthusiasts alike. With its weather-resistant construction and impressive range of features, the K-70 is well-suited for outdoor and adventure photography.
Powered by a 24.24MP APS-C CMOS sensor and the PRIME MII image processor, the K-70 delivers sharp, detailed images with accurate colors. The camera features an anti-aliasing filter simulator, which allows users to capture images with maximum sharpness and minimize the occurrence of moiré patterns.
The K-70 has a 3.0″ 921k-dot vari-angle LCD monitor, providing flexibility when composing shots and reviewing images. It supports Full HD 1080i video recording at 60 fps, enabling users to capture high-quality videos alongside their still images.
One of the standout features of the Pentax K-70 is its SAFOX X 11-point autofocus system, which includes 9 cross-type sensors for fast and precise focusing. With an ISO range of 100-204800, the K-70 offers exceptional low-light performance. It allows users to capture images in a wide range of lighting conditions.
Built-in Wi-Fi compatibility ensures seamless sharing of images, and the camera is compatible with the optional O-GPS1 module for geotagging and Astro tracer functionality. The K-70 also features Shake Reduction and Pixel Shift Resolution technologies, which help to minimize camera shake and improve image quality.
What We Like/Dislike About the Pentax K-70
| Like | Dislike |
|---|---|
| 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor | No 4K video |
| In-body image stabilization | Limited lens selection |
| Weather-sealed body | No touchscreen |
| 11-point AF system | Slower autofocus in live view |
| Built-in Wi-Fi | Single SD card slot |
| 6 fps continuous shooting | Lower resolution viewfinder |
What Consumers Are Saying
“The Pentax K-70 is a rugged and weather-resistant DSLR, making it ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure photographers.”
“With its impressive in-body image stabilization, the K-70 allows for sharper images even in low-light conditions or when using slower shutter speeds.”
“The K-70’s 24.2-megapixel sensor delivers excellent image quality, capturing fine details and vibrant colors in every shot.”
Nikon D5600
The Nikon D5600 is an excellent entry-level DSLR that perfectly balances ease of use and advanced features, making it an ideal choice for beginners who want to step up their photography game. With its impressive image quality and user-friendly interface, the D5600 is an excellent option for aspiring photographers.
The D5600 is powered by a 24.2MP DX-format CMOS sensor and the EXPEED 4 image processor, which produce stunning, detailed images with accurate colors. Its 3.2″ 1.037m-dot vari-angle touch screen lets users compose shots easily from different angles and provides intuitive controls for adjusting settings.
Full HD 1080p video recording at 60 fps allows users to capture high-quality videos alongside their still images. The camera’s Multi-CAM 4800DX 39-point autofocus system ensures fast and accurate focusing, even in challenging shooting conditions.
With an ISO range of 100-25600 and a continuous shooting speed of 5 fps, the D5600 is well-equipped to handle various shooting scenarios, from low-light conditions to fast-moving subjects. Nikon’s SnapBridge technology enables the seamless sharing of images and videos through Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, making it easy to transfer your content to your smartphone or other devices.
The D5600 also offers innovative features such as time-lapse movie recording, which allows users to explore different aspects of photography and videography. Its user-friendly interface and accessible controls make it easy for beginners to learn and experiment with various shooting modes and settings.
What We Like/Dislike About the Nikon D5600
| Like | Dislike |
|---|---|
| 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor | No 4K video |
| Good image quality | Limited dynamic range |
| 39-point AF system | Single SD card slot |
| Vari-angle touchscreen LCD | No in-body image stabilization |
| Built-in Wi-Fi & Bluetooth | Plastic body construction |
| 5fps continuous shooting | SnapBridge app limitations |
What Consumers Are Saying
“I’ve used a lot of different cameras, and by far, this one is the best. I couldn’t ask for a better camera highly recommend this one.”
I like the camera, it’s quick and easy to use, and the picture quality is great, but not with the 18-55mm kit lens.”
“I ordered this for my daughter for her photography class, and she loves it.”
Conclusion: Best Entry-Level Cameras
In conclusion, the world of entry-level cameras offers a diverse range of options for beginners and enthusiasts, each with unique features and strengths. The Canon EOS Rebel T8i, Nikon D3500, Nikon D7500, Canon EOS Rebel T7i, Canon EOS Rebel SL3, Pentax K-70, and Nikon D5600 all provide impressive image quality, user-friendly interfaces, and various features tailored to different needs and preferences.
The Canon EOS Rebel T8i and Nikon D7500 stand out for their advanced autofocus systems and excellent performance. At the same time, the Nikon D3500 and Canon EOS Rebel SL3 offer great value for budget-conscious beginners. The Canon EOS Rebel T7i and Nikon D5600 provide a well-rounded balance between ease of use and advanced features. The Pentax K-70’s weather-resistant construction is ideal for outdoor and adventure photography.
Ultimately, the best entry-level DSLR for you will depend on your individual preferences, budget, and photography goals. By carefully considering the features and capabilities of each camera, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect DSLR to embark on your photography journey.
FAQ
What’s the best type of camera for beginners?
The beginner camera will have many good qualities that make it easy to learn photography and videography. Beginners should choose an entry-level DSLR camera that is easy to use and has helpful and intuitive controls and guides to quickly learn the ropes.
The best entry-level DSLR cameras will give new photographers like yourself room to grow your skills. And as they develop, their DSLR camera should grow with you.
The best type of cameras for beginners are also budget-friendly; they will give you value for your money. As a beginner, the camera you should choose is all things rolled into one: affordability/value, quality, time-tested, easy to control, and quickly guided. With that, your camera can focus on quality, too. Before long, you will be a master of photography and/or videography.
Why Upgrade to a DSLR?
There are plenty of reasons for beginner photographers to upgrade to a DSLR. You will get better high-ISO performance with an entry-level DSLR camera. A few years ago, DSLR cameras did not have the capabilities they now boast.
Upgrading to a DSLR gives you a leg-up in photography. Suppose you need one of the best entry-level DSLR cameras. In that case, you are missing out and being limited as a photographer. When you upgrade your camera to a DSLR, you get many features to put to work.
Some features of DSLR cameras are self-cleaning sensors, wireless uploading, the most accurate autofocusing, higher pixels, fast shooting rates, dual memory card slots, and much more.
How to Choose the Right Camera
Some many features and capabilities go into finding the best entry-level DSLR camera for yourself. Though most cameras have similar features, you need to narrow down the best camera based on what you would like to photograph or catch on video. It would help if you considered the following:
- What will you be photographing? This could be nature, architecture, animals, portraits, travel photography, etc.
- What does your budget look like? A splurge may be worth it if you have more money to invest in your photography. However, this list is full of budget-friendly cameras for any entry-level photographer.
- Do you consider yourself a beginner or intermediate photographer? A more complex camera on this list may be better for an intermediate photographer. For example, you may want to shoot low-light or in 4K video.
- How important is it to share your images on social media? Pick a camera on here that has quick social media connectivity.
- Will you be upgrading your camera later on? Start with a more basic DSLR camera, then splurge later, so choose wisely.
- How do you want the camera to fit in your hands? Consider the size of your hands and the kind of grip you need in different environments.
- How will you process your images? Internet connectivity and desktop connectivity may be deciding factors here.
- Are you biased toward a particular camera brand? For example, some people are more Nikon fans than Canon, and vice versa. Ask your friends what they use.
Along with these questions, consider who or what your subjects will be and what you gravitate toward as far as features go. Then, you can list your top three from our list of best entry-level DSLR cameras to help you narrow down your favorites. You can go right with picking your entry-level DSLR camera from here.
