Whether you’re buying your first camera or you’re interested in taking up photography as a hobby DSLR cameras from the outset look expensive, overwhelming and ultimately picking one out can become a time consuming task.
We know all about the difficultly you are faced with when deciding which camera is right for you. In order to avoid spending your money on a camera that isn’t right for you – we made this list. For anyone who is considering taking up photography, or wants to own a DSLR camera.
This list compromises some of the best DSLR cameras that are out there right now for as little as 500 dollars. This list documents all the best budget options so you don’t have to waste your time, nor your money.
Read our list and you’ll see there are great options out there and you don’t need to break the bank in order to start shooting great photographs. Find out which DSLR camera is right for you with our top DSLR’s for under 500 dollars.
Canon COS Rebel T7 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 is II Kit
The Canon COS Rebel T7 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 is the first camera that makes our list. Whether you’re a newly or a well versed camera owner you’re sure to have heard of Canon.
They have become a mainstay focal name within contemporary camera culture. This DSLR camera is our top pick for a DSLR camera under 500 dollars.
The image taking capabilities of this camera are nothing short of amazing. Some users have even claimed it shoots just as well as high end DSLR. Plenty of photographers use this camera and stick with it for a long time.
Canon have included by automatic and manual settings on this camera which work great for beginners and then those that are more experienced. The manual override function also gives users plenty of room for experimentation which is extremely important when starting out with a DSLR camera.
If you invest in this camera you definitely will not be disappointed!
Pros
- Easy to use.
- Manual and Auto functionality.
- Great build quality.
- Amazing value for money.
- Superior image quality.
- Sharp, crisp clear images every time.
- Shoots fantastic shots straight out of the box.
- Good battery life.
- WiFi connectable.
- User friendly with easy to use controls that are laid out for beginners.
- Manual settings allow for creative experimentation.
- Automatic functions are great for beginners or those that just want to shoot great images without any fuss.
- A camera that you can grow with.
- 95% view coverage for the optical view finder.
Cons
- LCD doesn’t tilt unlike other slightly more expensive options.
- The continuous shooting option is poor and focusing become difficult.
- No 4K video shooting capabilities.
Nikon D5300 24.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera
The Nikon D5300 24.2 MegaPixel DSLR camera is a close second on our list of the best DSLR’s for under 1000 dollars.
Whilst this camera doesn’t feature a touch screen the ease of use, great ergonomic design and overall functionality of this camera make it favourite for those that want a DSLR on a budget. The inbuilt GPS system as well as WIFI are added features that, considering the price are great add ons.
This camera is a great investment for those that simply want to shoot photographs. If you’re after a camera that is simple, effective and great value for money then look no further.
For those that require a camera that also films, we suggest you look elsewhere as this camera has no LCD screen and limited filming abilities. However, if you wish to travel, or shoot outdoors a lot this is the best DSLR for under 500 dollars that you’re going to find!
Pros
- Great Nikon build camera.
- Easy to use.
- Effective straight out of the box.
- Great value for money.
- Great for travel shooting.
- Ergonomic design.
- Lightweight and compact.
- Perfect for outdoor snappers.
- Good DSLR for beginners.
- Built in WIFI.
- Built in GPS system.
- High resolution screen.
- 24 Mega Pixel sensor is great for snapping.
- Extremely good image quality for the money.
Cons
- Poor for video recording.
- Basic and lacking in settings.
- Good for beginners but those that are willing to learn manual focusing techniques will quickly become bored with the limited features.
Nikon D3500 W/ AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Black
The Nikon D3500 is another great DSLR camera for under 500 dollars. This is a great option for those that are wanting a beginner camera that will work straight out of the box.
No thrills, but no spills with this extremely basic DSLR. He fast autofocus and high ISO performance are particularly impressive on this model, with superior image quality in comparison with most that feature on our list.
Further down the line you can easily add lenses to this DSLR enabling it to shoot images that mirror shots taken by much more expensive cameras. Overall this is a good all round option and one well worth considering before you make your purchase.
Pros
- Good value for money.
- Easy to use.
- Vast improvement on the previous model.
- Good for beginners.
- Adaptable with lenses that enhance the performance.
- Extremely fast auto focusing for easy shooting.
- High end ISO performance that is outstanding given the price.
- Good value for money.
- Super image taking abilities.
- Comfortable to handle.
- Superb grip.
- Ergonomic design that is easy to handle.
- Point and shoot capabilities also.
- Nikon snapbridge app compatible to instantly share photos with your phone.
Cons
- HD video as a posed to 4K.
- No WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity that other models offer.
- Rear screen is completely fixed.
- Not a great option for those that are considering shooting images as well.
Canon EOS Rebel T6 Digital Camera
The Canon EOS Rebel T6 camera is another versatile DSLR for under 500 dollars that any user will be happy to shoot with.
This beginner friendly offering from Canon is the perfect camera for snapping crisp, clear and sharp wherever you are. This camera is great for beginners that are willing to learn the process of digital photography as this camera allows ample room for experimentation.
The autofocus is largely silent and offers impressive capabilities shooting both static and moving subjects with ease, clarity and superior quality. This is the perfect DSLR for under 500 dollars for anyone who wants to learn photography properly and isn’t just looking for a simple camera.
Pros
- Great value for money.
- Superior build quality.
- Offers multiple chances for experimentation.
- Autofocus is outstanding.
- Silent when in use.
- Can capture both moving and static subjects with ease.
- Built in WiFi for easy transfer of images.
- Great for shooting videos.
- 2 megapixel sensor is sharp and powerful.
- EOS allows you to take clear, sharp shots with ease whilst you learn how to use the camera.
- Dazzling shooting ability.
Cons
- No touch screen.
- Autofocus doesn’t work very well in low level light.
- No autofocus whist in video mode which is disappointing.
Canon EOS 4000D DSLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 III
The Canon EOS 4000D DSLR camera is our pick for the best beginner DSLR for under 500 dollars.
This is the most basic camera on our list. If you’ve been reading this list and you’re thinking that you don’t want all the added feature so that some cameras offer then this is the camera for you. Without a doubt this is the most simple and basic DSLR you can get.
Image quality is great, the camera is simple to use and the price is right.
Pros
- Easy to use.
- Great for beginners.
- Simple DSLR.
- WIFi connective.
- Great image quality.
- Large range of lenses you can add for advanced shooting.
- Buttons are laid out logically.
- Ergonomically designed.
- Perfect for young families.
- Easy to use autofocus to make the camera work for you.
Cons
- Doesn’t have a touch screen.
- Autofocus can be slow and lacking.
Conclusion
This list has ran through all the best DSLR cameras that area valuable for those working on a tight budget. Getting into photography doesn’t have to put a hole in your pocket! Review the cameras on our list and you’re sure to find a camera that works well for you.
