The 4 Best DSLR Cameras For Beginners – Spring 2023: Reviews
- Table of Contents
- Intro
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Best Camera
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Best Mid-Range
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Best Budget
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Easiest To Use
- Notable Mentions
- Recent Updates
- All Reviews
- Discussions
Updated May 10, 2023 at 09:26 am
By Adriana Wiszniewska
While mirrorless cameras are increasingly popular among consumers, there’s still a lot to love about the traditional DSLR, from optical viewfinders that give you an unfiltered view of your subjects to unrivaled battery performance to ergonomics that have defined the shooting experience for generations of photographers. You can also generally find DSLRs for cheaper, especially when looking at the used market. While it can be tempting to go right for a high-end model, it’s important to get a handle on the basics when you’re just starting out, which is why we’ve tailored our list around affordability and ease of use.
We’ve bought and tested over 80 cameras in our lab, and below you’ll find what we think are the best entry-level DSLR cameras. If you want to look into mirrorless options as well, you can also take a look at our picks for the best mirrorless cameras for beginners. Or, if you’re looking for something more advanced, check out our recommendations for the best DSLR cameras or the best cameras for photography.
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Best DSLR Camera For Beginners
Canon EOS Rebel T8i
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Travel Photography
7.5
Landscape Photography
7.6
Sport & Wildlife Photography
7.0
Vlogging
7.
0Studio Video
6.9
Action Video
2.9
Body Type
DSLR
Mirrorless
No
Sensor Size
APS-C
See all our test results
The Canon EOS Rebel T8i is one of the best beginner DSLRs on the market. Canon has included everything you could want in a beginner camera and then some, making this a great option to grow into as a newbie photographer. It’s compatible with any of Canon’s EF and EF-S lenses, so you can also easily upgrade lenses as your skills grow, and there are plenty of affordable options to choose from. Unlike some of the more affordable options below, this is one of the few beginner DSLRs that can record 4k video. It has a fully articulated touchscreen, along with a fair amount of buttons and control dials.
However, there’s no ‘Guide’ shooting mode like you get with the Nikon D3500 below, so the controls might be more intimidating to navigate if you’re just getting started. This camera also has the most advanced autofocus system of any camera on this list, though it still pales compared to newer mirrorless alternatives. It also has a fairly quick burst rate, making it a good choice for sports and faster subjects in addition to portraits and landscapes.
See our review
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Best Mid-Range DSLR Camera For Beginners
Nikon D5600
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Travel Photography
7.6
Landscape Photography
7.6
Sport & Wildlife Photography
7.
0Vlogging
5.9
Studio Video
3.5
Action Video
2.5
Body Type
DSLR
Mirrorless
No
Sensor Size
APS-C
See all our test results
If you don’t need 4k video capability, you could be all set with a camera like the Nikon D5600. It’s the mid-range model in Nikon’s entry-level DSLR lineup. Like the Canon EOS Rebel T8i, it’s a fairly well-built camera with a fully articulated screen. Its intuitive user interface and relatively simple controls are also quite accessible to newcomers. That said, it has a slower max burst rate and less advanced autofocus system, but for most people, it’ll more than get the job done.
Beyond that, its high-resolution APS-C sensor can capture high-quality images, and the camera is compatible with both Nikon DX and FX lenses, giving you a wide range of lenses to upgrade to as your skills grow. Though it’s been discontinued and is increasingly hard to find new, you can find used models for a reasonable price at retailers like B&H Photo Video and KEH Camera. All in all, this is a great fit for beginner photographers looking for an intermediate model that won’t cost a fortune.
See our review
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Best Budget DSLR Camera For Beginners
Canon EOS Rebel SL3
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Finding Store
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Travel Photography
7.2
Landscape Photography
7.
6Sport & Wildlife Photography
6.8
Vlogging
7.4
Studio Video
7.0
Action Video
3.1
Body Type
DSLR
Mirrorless
No
Sensor Size
APS-C
See all our test results
The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 is part of Canon’s entry-level SL series, designed to be small and lightweight. It’s also one of the best budget DSLRs on the market. With 4k video capability, quick burst shooting, and a solid autofocus system, it’s a very well-rounded camera for the money.
However, it doesn’t feel as well-built as the Nikon D5600 and has fewer physical controls than the Canon EOS Rebel T8i.
That’s not a bad thing for those getting started, but it may feel a bit limiting for more advanced photographers who prefer to shoot in manual mode. Still, this is a great little camera that won’t break the bank and is lightweight enough that you’ll want to bring it with you everywhere.See our review
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Easiest-To-Use DSLR Camera For Beginners
Nikon D3500
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Finding Store
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Finding Store
Travel Photography
7.2
Landscape Photography
7.1
Sport & Wildlife Photography
6.5
Vlogging
2.
9Studio Video
3.1
Action Video
2.6
Body Type
DSLR
Mirrorless
No
Sensor Size
APS-C
See all our test results
If you’re completely new to photography, we recommend the Nikon D3500. It’s affordable, relatively lightweight, and has a simple user interface that makes it a pretty easy jump from your smartphone. You won’t find too many bells and whistles here, like 4k video capability or a flip-out screen, but the reason this is such a good choice for beginners is its interactive ‘Guide’ shooting mode. Built right into the mode dial, the Guide Mode walks you through the basics of photography as you shoot. It isn’t quite as helpful as having a photography teacher on hand to show you the ropes, but it is the next best thing.
While it’s aimed at total beginners, the D3500 has a surprisingly good sensor that’s on par with that of the Nikon D5600 above. Battery life is also fantastic, so it can last through multiple days of shooting, depending on your shooting habits. Ultimately, if you don’t know your aperture from your ISO yet, the D3500 is one of the best beginner DSLR cameras you can get, thanks to its small size, simple design, and unique Guide Mode. Like the D5600, however, it’s becoming harder to find new, though you can still find it at B&H Photo Video for now. Otherwise, you can look into used models and older versions like the Nikon D3400 at retailers like KEH Camera.
See our review
0
0
6
That’s not a bad thing for those getting started, but it may feel a bit limiting for more advanced photographers who prefer to shoot in manual mode. Still, this is a great little camera that won’t break the bank and is lightweight enough that you’ll want to bring it with you everywhere.
9
Notable Mentions
- Canon EOS Rebel T7 / EOS 2000D:
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 / EOS 2000D is a decent budget DSLR with good image quality and a simple-to-use menu system. However, it doesn’t have the same hands-on learning mode as the Nikon D3500.
See our review
Recent Updates
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May 10, 2023:
Restructured the article for clarity and added links to help users more easily find discontinued models. -
Mar 13, 2023:
Checked accuracy and availability of picks to ensure they’re still the most relevant picks for users. -
Jan 12, 2023:
Reviewed picks for accuracy, with minor adjustments to clarity of text. -
Nov 15, 2022:
Minor tweaks to text for clarity. -
Sep 16, 2022:
Overhauled article to better reflect user needs and market conditions.
All Reviews
Our recommendations above are what we think are currently the best DSLR cameras for beginners to buy, according to their needs. We factor in the price, feedback from our visitors, and availability (no cameras that are difficult to find or almost out of stock in the US).
If you’d like to choose for yourself, here’s the list of all our reviews for interchangeable-lens DSLR cameras, arranged in order of ascending price. Be careful not to get caught up in the details. There is no single perfect camera. Personal taste, preference, and shooting habits will matter more in your selection.
DSLR vs mirrorless cameras in 2023
The DSLR design (left) has some advantages of its own, even if mirrorless cameras (right) seem the way forward
(Image credit: Panasonic/Nikon)
The choice between a DSLR vs mirrorless camera is still an important (and sometimes divisive) buying decision. Here, we’ll explain what the differences are, and where each camera type has an advantage.
All the major camera manufacturers are focusing their efforts on mirrorless camera systems, but DSLR cameras are still being made, sold, bought and loved!
The best DSLRs and mirrorless cameras differ in their construction and design, but not in their sensors, image quality, technologies, and indeed many of their features. The differences are partly physical – the way these two camera designs look, handle and work – and partly technical in terms of the video capture and autofocus systems they offer.
Obviously, personal preference comes into play too. The mirrorless vs DSLR debate should largely come down to which one you like using more! These are the best-value Nikon and Canon DSLR cameras.
Mirrorless vs DSLR in 2023: which is best?
DSLR and mirrorless cameras offer a different shooting experience, and although mirrorless cameras can boast the latest imaging technology, DSLRs have many more traditional physical qualities, including optical viewfinders and old-fashioned virtues like long battery life.
Let’s look at the key differences between mirrorless vs DSLR cameras.
1. The mirror
DSLRs and mirrorless cameras both show the scene through the camera lens itself as you compose the picture, but the way they display it is completely different. DSLRs use a mirror to reflect an optical image up into the viewfinder.
You are looking at an optical image. When you take a picture, the mirror flips up so that the image can then pass to the back of the camera where the sensor is exposed to the image.
DSLRs use a mirror in the body to reflect the image up into the viewfinder. The instant you take a picture, the mirror flips up and out of the way.
Mirrorless cameras take a different approach. They use the ‘live view’ captured by the camera sensor itself to create an electronic image that can be displayed either on the rear screen or in an electronic viewfinder. There is no mirror mechanism to flip up and out of the way.
But what sounds like a win-win situation is a little more complicated than that.
First, many people prefer the optical image of a DSLR viewfinder. Second, digital displays consume a lot more power, and mirrorless cameras still can’t compete with DSLRs for battery life.
Affordable full frame mirrorless cameras
Nikon Z 6II
$1,696.95
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Panasonic Lumix S5
$1,497.99
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Nikon Z5
$996.95
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Sony A7C
$1,598
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2. Autofocus
The key difference here is that mirrorless cameras use a single autofocus system for both rear screen and viewfinder shooting, whereas DSLRs – confusingly – have to use two.
DSLRs use dedicated ‘phase detect’ autofocus sensors which are in the base of the camera behind the mirror. When you take a picture, the mirror flips up and out of the way and that means the AF sensor is no longer available.
Back when DSLRs didn’t have live view, this wasn’t a problem. But when the demand grew for live view shooting using the rear screen, DSLRs had to switch to autofocus systems that used the image formed on the sensor itself.
So you have a situation that persists to this day – DSLRs have one autofocus system for the viewfinder and a different one for live view shooting.
In terms of performance, mirrorless cameras have largely caught up with DSLRs for autofocus speed and surpass them for frame coverage and tracking features.
DSLRs use separate dedicated phase detection autofocus sensors mounted behind and below the mirror for viewfinder shooting. In the early days, this easily beat mirrorless cameras for speed. The situation has changed, however.
Mirrorless cameras can now be successfully used for fast-moving sports and action photography that once demanded a DSLR.
In fact, if you look at the capabilities of the hybrid on-sensor autofocus system in the latest Sony A7 IV, even DSLR diehards would have to concede that the separate phase-detect AF systems in DSLRs are dinosaurs by comparison.
DSLRs with ‘mirrorless camera’ live view autofocus
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
$1,899
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Canon EOS 90D
$1,159
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Nikon D780
$1,996.:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/493664-1-5bbb9a7a4cedfd0026b64cd4.jpg)
95
View
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Mirrorless cameras with DSLR style ‘phase detection’ AF
Sony Alpha A7 III
$1,698
View
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Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
$999.99
View
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3. Viewfinders
The design of mirrorless cameras means they need to use electronic viewfinders. These have improved hugely in a very short space of time.
High-quality electronic viewfinders are now found on many mirrorless cameras – and what you see in the viewfinder is exactly what you would see in live view on the rear screen. (Image credit: Nikon)
The latest and best electronic viewfinders available today have such high resolution that you can hardly see the ‘dots’ and they have a clarity that genuinely approaches optical viewfinders.
However, they can still suffer from lag, or ‘latency’ – a tiny delay between what the camera sees and what the screen shows. Viewfinder lag is less of an issue than it used to be thanks to faster refresh rates, and the most recent area of focus for manufacturers has been in the blackout effect you would typically see when shooting continuous bursts of images.
Electronic viewfinders can show a more clearly visible view of a scene in low light and have zoom functions for precise manual focusing – two highly underrated benefits of electronic viewfinders. Because of their auto-gain light amplification effect, electronic viewfinders let you compose and shoot images in near darkness.
It’s also worth pointing out that if you are a fan of vintage manual lenses which need to be used in stopped-down mode, a DSLR viewfinder will be way too dark but a mirrorless EVF will be fine.
However, many photographers still prefer the ‘naked eye’ view of an optical viewfinder over a digital one. You’ll soon see the image the camera has recorded in playback mode anyway.
DSLR optical viewfinders are still popular because they offer a ‘naked eye’ view of world with no screen lag or digital artefacts.
Optical viewfinders have another key advantage that’s particularly relevant for sports and action photographers. There is unavoidable screen blackout in the camera’s burst shooting mode as the mirror flips up and down between exposures, but this is rarely an issue – the key point is that there is no lag, and it’s much easier to follow a fast-moving subject with a high-speed DSLR like the Nikon D500, for example, than it is with the average mirrorless camera.
Some highly rated DSLRs with optical viewfinders
Nikon D7500
$899.95
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Canon EOS 250D
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II
$1,168.99
View
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Nikon D780
$1,996.95
View
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Some mirrorless cameras with excellent electronic viewfinders
Fujifilm X-Pro3
$1,979.95
View
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4. Size
The most often claimed advantage of mirrorless systems is that they are much smaller than DSLRs. This is the main sell of mirrorless systems: the same size of sensor and image quality as offered by a DSLR without the bulk.
But there are often trade-offs in making a mirrorless camera body so compact, such as battery life, the way a camera handles larger lenses, and how much space there is for external dials and buttons.
Many mirrorless cameras have a very small grip on their front plates, or none at all, rather than the more substantial ones found on most DSLRs.
(Image credit: Rod Lawton/Digital Camera World)
Small bodies also mean small controls, and users with larger hands may not find smaller mirrorless bodies easy to use. This extends to touchscreens too, with virtual buttons and controls often too small for them to be keyed comfortably, so although the Nikon D850 DSLR seems huge in comparison to today’s full-frame mirrorless camera, many of its pro users will prefer its size because it makes it much easier to see and change camera settings – and because it balances better with big lenses, which is what we cover in the next section.
Some mirrorless cameras genuinely smaller than DSLRs
Fujifilm X-T30
$1,698
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Nikon Z50
$944.95
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5. Lenses
DSLRs still have an advantage for lens choice, simply because they’ve been around and supported for decades. Anyone that opts for a Canon EOS DSLR today has 30 years’ worth of native optics to choose from, and many more when you factor in compatible third-party options.
Nikon and Pentax are in a similar position with their DSLR ranges.
However, the development of new DSLR lenses has slowed dramatically. Canon and Nikon now put almost all of their lens development effort into mirrorless lenses. Not only that, wider mirrorless lens mounts and shorter back-focus ‘flange’ distances have given lens designers a blank slate, and many new mirrorless lenses outperform older DSLR equivalents.
Nikon and Canon DSLRs still have the largest lens systems, but mirrorless makers like Fujifilm, Sony, Olympus, and Panasonic are hot on their heels and almost match the range available – and often with more modern lens designs. (Image credit: Sony)
It hasn’t taken Sony long to assemble an impressive range of lenses for its full-frame FE-mount mirrorless cameras (see our list of the best Sony lenses), and Panasonic has been smart enough to enter into an L-Mount Alliance with Sigma and Leica to ensure that it’s already supported with a large and growing lens range.
See our guide to the best L-mount lenses for more.
Nikon and Canon have been especially clever with their new full frame mirrorless cameras. Nikon makes an FTZ mount adaptor for using any of Nikon’s current DSLR lenses without restriction. Canon has also launched lens adapters for its EOS R full-frame mirrorless cameras, opening up its entire range of EF DSLR lenses to these cameras.
It still takes time, though. Nikon’s new ‘baby’ DX mirrorless cameras, the Nikon Z50, and Nikon Z fc, still have only three native APS-C lenses.
Fujifilm and Olympus have also had time to develop their own native lens systems, to the degree that none of the mirrorless camera brands is now at any real disadvantage regarding lens choice (see our list of the best Fujifilm lenses, for example).
The Canon RF 28-70mm F/2L USM is a remarkable mirrorless lens, but just look at the size of it! (Image credit: Future / Matthew Richards)
Some mirrorless makers have produced small or retracting lenses that do offer a size saving, but when lens makers produce mirrorless lenses to match the specifications and performance of DSLR lenses, they end up pretty much the same size.
6. Video
Mirrorless cameras have a considerable advantage when it comes to video, and that’s why the best filmmaking cameras and the best hybrid cameras aren’t generally DSLRs. First, their design makes them much better suited to the constant ‘live view’ required for video capture. Second, this is where camera makers are concentrating their video capture technologies and where you’re going to get the best video features and performance.
But let’s not forget that DSLRs can shoot video too. The Nikon D90 brought HD video to the consumer market, and the Canon EOS 5D II brought DSLRs into the professional videography and film-making arena.
For today’s DSLRs, video capture is a standard feature, and the Nikon D5, D850, and Canon EOS 5D IV offer 4K video capture, while the Nikon D780 is as effective for video as any mirrorless camera. Check out our best DSLR for video guide for more.
Even so, when it comes to 6K and 8K capture, raw or 10-bit video, high frame rates, and more, all the effort and development work is going into mirrorless cameras.
Mainstream mirrorless cameras are now getting very good indeed at video, and the Fujifilm X-T4 brings in-body stabilization and digital image stabilization for video. (Image credit: Fujifilm)
Sony has led the way with high-quality ‘oversampled’ 4K videos in its full-frame mirrorless A7-series cameras like the A7 III, and Fujifilm and Panasonic now have cameras capable of capturing 4K video at 60/50fps for smooth 2x slow motion effects in the Fujifilm X-T4 and Panasonic Lumix GH5 Mark II and GH5S.
The Panasonic Lumix S1H has already received accreditation from Netflix for original content creation, along with the best Netflix-approved cameras. The Canon EOS R5 also got much attention for its 8K 30p video capabilities, and Sony has joined in with the 8K Sony A1, as has Nikon, with the Nikon Z9.
If you only need video occasionally a DSLR will be fine, but if you need to shoot it as an important (or THE most important) part of your work, then mirrorless is the way to go.
Some great mirrorless cameras for video or vlogging
Sony Alpha A6400
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Nikon Z50
$944.95
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Fujifilm X-T30
$1,698
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Panasonic Lumix G9
$1,299.99
$897.99
View
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Deal ends Sun, Jun 11
Panasonic Lumix S1H
$3,997.99
$3,497.99
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7. Battery life
Even very basic DSLRs will happily offer 600 shots per battery charge, but the entry-level Nikon D3500 DSLR, for example, can capture up to 1,550 images on a single charge. The very best pro DSLRs can rattle off almost 4000 frames per charge, although this is admittedly with considerably larger batteries. With the Nikon D6, Nikon claims a stunning battery life of 3,580 shots – and twice that if the camera is used for high-speed continuous shooting.
You might not give your DSLR’s battery much thought, but when you own a mirrorless camera, the state of the battery can become a constant preoccupation! (Image credit: Fujifilm)
Mirrorless cameras, however, fare far less impressively here, with around 350-400 frames per charge being the norm while some are a whole lot less.
The Sony A7R III ushered in an extended 650-shot battery life almost double that of its predecessors, and the Sony A7R IV even improves on that slightly, so that’s a significant step forward, but the Canon EOS RP can only manage 250 shots.
As impressive as the flagship Sony A9 II pro DSLR is, its battery life of around 500 shots with the viewfinder and approximately 690 with the LCD is way lower than rival pro DSLRs like the Nikon D6 and Canon EOS-1D X Mark III. You might need a battery grip (shown here) just to keep up with a day’s shooting. (Image credit: Sony)
Mirrorless cameras are inherently more dependent on battery power than DSLRs. Either the LCD display or the electronic viewfinder is on all the time. Furthermore, the fact that most manufacturers try to make mirrorless models as small as possible means that their batteries are also small, which also presents a limit on their capacity.
Of course, you can buy spare batteries for cameras in both camps, so whether this is as great an issue or not is debatable.
One advantage of mirrorless cameras, however, is that many now offer to charge through their USB ports, like the Sony A6400, which is very convenient when traveling, though this is starting to appear on DSLRs like the Nikon D780, too.
Mirrorless cameras that support USB charging
Nikon Z50
$944.95
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Panasonic Lumix G90/G95
$999.99
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Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
$999.99
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8. Dust
This is a difference between DSLRs and mirrorless cameras that never gets mentioned in the specs sheets but will have come to the attention of anyone who uses both camera types.
With mirrorless cameras, the sensor is much more exposed and much closer to the lens throat of the camera. With DSLRs, the sensor is right at the back of the camera and covered by the shutter and the mirror in front of it – the sensor is only exposed to dust when you take a picture (unless you shoot in live view).
Some mirrorless cameras seem much more susceptible to dust and other sensor debris than others. We have found some Sony cameras particularly prone to sensor dust, while Olympus, Panasonic, and Fujifilm cameras are not affected as badly. Almost all cameras have automatic dust-removal systems that ‘shake’ the sensor to dislodge any foreign matter, but some are clearly more effective than others.
DSLR sensors may not be as prone to dust spots, but they are a lot harder to reach if you do need to clean them. (Image credit: Future)
However, while mirrorless camera sensors may be more exposed to dust, they are also much easier to clean. DSLR sensors are the very devil to reach with dust-removing gadgets and need a special cleaning mode that locks up the mirror and opens the shutter.
The D850’s silent shutter option makes it handy for wedding, social and event photography, but really it’s mirrorless cameras that take the lead for silent shooting.
When to choose a DSLR
DSLRs are bigger, fatter, chunkier, and easier to grip.
They handle better with telephoto lenses and they have more space for external controls, so you spend less time navigating digital interfaces and tapping at touchscreens – and their batteries last all day.
They also have optical viewfinders. Mirrorless users might not care, but DSLR fans would never swap the ‘naked eye’ viewfinder image of a DSLR for a digital simulation, no matter how good.
There’s another thing. If you’re on a tight budget you’ll have to work hard to find a mirrorless camera with a viewfinder for the same price as a DSLR – you will struggle to get a mirrorless APS-C camera with a viewfinder for the same price as a Nikon D3500 or a Canon EOS 2000D. DSLRs are still amongst the best cameras for beginners.
The Pentax K-1 II is not compact or light by any standards, but it’s a solid, old-school DSLR that’s built just how many DSLR fans like them.
When to choose mirrorless
Mirrorless camera bodies are smaller and, if you choose carefully, you can get smaller lenses to go with them – though this only really holds true with the Micro Four Thirds format, as APS-C and full frame mirrorless cameras come with lenses as large as their DSLR counterparts.
If you’re an Instagrammer, influencer, blogger, or blogger, a mirrorless camera like the Olympus PEN-EPL9 or Canon EOS M50 is perfect. They’re small, light, and adaptable and have tilting/vari-angle screens that let you shoot from all sorts of angles. They’re great for both video and stills and can easily fit in an everyday bag.
If you’re a pro or semi-pro videographer, mirrorless is the way to go here, too. This is where all the video development in cameras, lenses, hardware, and accessories is happening with cameras like the Nikon Z6 II and Sony A7 III. The Panasonic Lumix S1H is a video-centric mirrorless model that’s making inroads into the pro cinema market, and the Fujifilm X-T4 is a mirrorless camera with video specs that are currently out on its own in this price range.
There is one final paradox. You might say that the DSLR design is retro, but in fact, if you want a camera that looks and feels the way cameras used to, then a mirrorless camera is the way to go! See our guide to the best retro cameras to see why, as well as the best rangefinder cameras.
How we test cameras
We test cameras both in real-world shooting scenarios and in carefully controlled lab conditions. Our lab tests measure resolution, dynamic range, and signal-to-noise ratio. Resolution is measured using ISO resolution charts, dynamic range is measured using DxO Analyzer test equipment and DxO Analyzer is also used for noise analysis across the camera’s ISO range. We use both real-world testing and lab results to inform our comments in buying guides.
Four of our favorite DSLRs
Nikon D850
$2,496.95
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Canon EOS 250D
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Canon EOS 6D Mark II
$1,168.99
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Four of our favorite mirrorless cameras
Nikon Z50
$944.95
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Fujifilm X-T5
$1,699
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Panasonic Lumix S5II
$1,997.99
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Rod is an independent photography journalist and editor, and a long-standing Digital Camera World contributor, having previously worked as DCW’s Group Reviews editor.
Before that he has been technique editor on N-Photo, Head of Testing for the photography division and Camera Channel editor on TechRadar, as well as contributing to many other publications. He has been writing about photography technique, photo editing and digital cameras since they first appeared, and before that began his career writing about film photography. He has used and reviewed practically every interchangeable lens camera launched in the past 20 years, from entry-level DSLRs to medium format cameras, together with lenses, tripods, gimbals, light meters, camera bags and more. Rod has his own camera gear blog at fotovolo.com but also writes about photo-editing applications and techniques at lifeafterphotoshop.com
Top 10 Best Cameras for Beginners 2023
The best cameras for beginners should be easy to use, but with interchangeable lenses and manual controls.
What is the best camera for beginners? We think it’s not a very expensive camera, but still capable of producing quality images and having the opportunity to try out more advanced techniques and shooting styles as you learn more about photography.
That is, this means that it must be: mirrored or mirrorless!
03/08/2023 Update
New models have been added to the ranking of the best cameras and cameras for beginners.
There’s been a long debate over which is better, DSLRs or mirrorless cameras, but either type is a great way to get started in photography, and we’ve included both types of cameras in this list.
In general, a DSLR will be bigger and heavier with better battery life. It might cost a bit less and you can choose from a wide range of lenses. The mirrorless camera will be smaller and lighter, and it will be the best choice for video shooting and blogging.
For those who are going to use the camera primarily for shooting videos for social networks, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with our rating of the best cameras for vlogging. For extreme and outdoor enthusiasts, we have prepared a rating of the best action cameras.
To be honest, DSLRs are slowly disappearing from the market, and almost all major camera manufacturers are moving towards developing mirrorless systems.
However, if you get a Canon or Nikon DSLR, you can choose from a huge range of lenses and your camera will likely be up to date for many years to come.
At the end of this ranking, you’ll find some more tips for choosing the best camera for beginners, but it all comes down to price, versatility, and usability.
When buying, you need to think about lenses. DSLRs and mirrorless cameras are usually sold as “body only” or with a kit lens. Of course, buying just the body is cheaper, but that’s a false economy – if you don’t already have a lens, it’s always cheaper to buy a kit than to buy a lens separately. You’ll usually get a basic 3x zoom lens or something similar, and that’s a good place to start.
We recommend using the included lens with every camera in the ranking, as it is almost always the standard option.
1
Canon EOS 250D
Best Newbie Camera
Type: DSLR
Sensor: APS-C
9003 2 Lens mount: Canon EF-S
Screen: 3-inch touch screen with
vari-angle, 1,040,000 dots
Max burst speed: 5 fps
Max video resolution: 4K UHD @ 25p
Pros
- Lightweight, intuitive DSLR
- Superb Live View shooting 90 056
Cons
- Relatively few AF points
It’s not the cheapest DSLR you can buy, but it’s often worth paying a little more to get a lot more features – and this camera is a perfect example.
The EOS 250D features Canon’s best-in-class 24.1MP APS-C sensor, easy Live View shooting with an adjustable touch screen, and Canon’s fast Dual Pixel CMOS AF.
In fact, we would say that this is one of the few DSLRs where framing shots using the screen is preferred over using the viewfinder. In addition, Canon has made it possible for this camera to shoot 4K video, packing it all into the smallest DSLR body you’ll ever see. However, if you’re after particularly high-quality video, one of the SL3’s rival DSLRs will probably do the job better.
Recommended kit lens: Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM
3
Nikon D3500
Entry level classic DSLR
Type: DSLR
Sensor: APS-C
Megapixels: 24.2 MP
Lens mount: Nikon F (DX)
Screen: 3″ 921000 dots
Max burst speed: 5fps 9003 4 Max video resolution: 1080p (Full HD)
User Level: Newbie
Pros
- Interactive Guided Shooting Mode
- Solid Performance
- Good Handling
Cons
- Fairly simple controls
- No LCD display tilt and non-touch
If you’re worried about DSLRs being too complicated, don’t worry.
The Nikon D3500 has an excellent “Guide” shooting mode that acts as a fully interactive guide to photography and camera settings, presented through the rear LCD screen. The controls of the D3500 are simple and easy to learn. At the same time, its price indicates the absence of some of the more advanced features.
For example, there is no Custom Settings menu for customizing the camera’s functions to your preferences, as is found in every other Nikon SLR series. Autofocus in Live View and video capture modes is quite slow, although the Nikon AF-P DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens speeds it up and is the best kit lens for this model. Overall, the image quality and performance of the Nikon D3500 is extremely good for the money, and the 5fps burst rate is pretty fast for an entry-level DSLR. Check out the many other great Nikon lenses that this DSLR lets you use.
Recommended kit lens: Nikon AF-P DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR
4
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
Great beginner camera with flashy style
900 32 Type: mirrorless
Sensor: Micro Four Thirds
Megapixels: 20.
3
Lens mount: MFT
Screen: 3-inch 1-angle touchscreen 80 degrees, 1037k dots
Viewfinder: electronic viewfinder, 2360k dots
Max Frame Rate: 8.7 fps
Max Video Resolution: 4K UHD
User Level: Beginner / Intermediate
Pros
- 9000 6 Latest 20MP sensor
- 5-axis in-body stabilization
Cons
- Plastic build
- MFT sensor smaller than APS-C
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV starter camera with new 20MP sensor, improved in-body image stabilization and a new sliding and swivel screen, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV has many advantages.
While retaining the 4K video shooting capability and attractive design that made the Mark III attractive to consumers, the Mark IV is a great choice for those looking for an entry-level camera that can do just about anything. It’s one of our favorite small-sized cameras; it’s compact enough to carry and much more powerful than it looks.
The OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a camera that can be with you for a long time.
Recommended kit lens: Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 EZ
5
Fujifilm X-T5
a camera that is in a class of its own
Type: mirrorless
Sensor: APS-C X-Trans CMOS
900 32 Megapixels: 40.2 MP
Lens: Sony E
Screen: 3-inch swivel touchscreen
Viewfinder: 0.5-inch 3.69M-dot OLED viewfinder, 100 fps refresh rate
Continuous shooting speed: Mechanical 15fps, Electronic 20fps (1.29x cropping)
Maximum Video Resolution: 6.2K
User Level: Enthusiast/Intermediate
Pros
- 9005 4 10-bit video 4: 2:2 6.2K/30P
- Lightweight, compact design
- Cheaper than Fujifilm X-h3
Cons
- Not everyone will like the display 900 56
Fujifilm X-T5 is an evolution of the X-T series and not a revolution.
This is a classic SLR-style camera that puts photography first and is more for the serious enthusiast.
The X-T5 continues to build on the X-T4 that so many users loved, but is still perfect for those who want a lightweight camera with traditional controls and a great 40.2MP resolution, 10-bit 4:2: 2 videos at 6.2K / 30P and a new 3-position swivel touch screen. The look, feel and handling of the X-T5 is second to none.
Recommended kit lens: Fujifilm XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS.
5
Sony ZV-E10
Great camera for vlogging beginners
Type: mirrorless
Sensor: APS-C
Megapixels: 24.2MP
Lens: Sony E mount
Screen: adjustable angle
Viewfinder: No
Max Continuous Shooting: 11fps for 116 JPEGs
Max Video Resolution: 4K 30p
User Level: Enthusiast
Pros
- Autofocus features and performance
- Vari-angle screen
- Clip-on windscreen
Cons
- No in-body stabilization
- No viewfinder
If your interests are divided in half between video and photography, the Sony ZV-E10 blogging camera is a great choice.
It falls short in photography as it doesn’t have an electronic viewfinder, but it makes up for it with video capabilities, including 4K video recording and a fully rotatable screen.
The camera also features a large, high-quality built-in microphone (with windscreen), excellent Sony autofocus, and an attractive price. Unfortunately, it doesn’t have in-body image stabilization, and the menus can’t be touch-controlled (which can be a problem in a blogging camera), but for beginners in video, this is unlikely to be a big drawback. More importantly, thanks to the use of the Sony E mount, the camera has access to a large number of lenses from Sony and third parties.
Recommended kit lens: Sony E 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 power zoom
6
Panasonic Lumix G100
Made for vlogging but also a great camera for photography
Type: mirrorless
Sensor: Micro Four Thirds
Megapixels: 20.3
Lens mount: MFT
Screen: 3-inch 1840k-dot vari-angle
9003 2 Viewfinder: EVF 3.
69M dots
Max Continuous Shooting Rate: 10fps
Max Video Resolution: 4K UHD
User Level: Novice / Enthusiast
Pros
- Quality video and photo
- Audio recording capabilities
- EVF and hinged LCD
Cons
- No in-body stabilization
- No headphone jack or USB-C
Interested in the idea of vlogging? The Panasonic Lumix G100 is a great alternative to the Sony ZV-E10. It has a smaller Micro Four Thirds sensor, but it has an electronic viewfinder that Sony doesn’t have, so it’s a pretty even matchup. Photographers and vloggers will appreciate the ease of use of the Lumix G100.
It makes shooting high-quality videos and photos easy with a convenient button layout. Even people who are not interested in the technical details of capturing beautiful videos can get results with this camera. With a mini DSLR design and electronic viewfinder, Panasonic gave the G100 an edge in a highly competitive market.
Recommended lens kit: Panasonic Lumix G Vario 12-32mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH
7
Canon EOS M50 Mark II
Still a great little camera – great price
Type: 90 033 mirrorless
Sensor: APS-C
Lens mount: Canon EF-M
Screen: 3-inch 1040k-dot vari-angle touchscreen
Max burst speed: 10fps second
Max video resolution: 4K UHD
Pros
- Built-in EVF
- Well articulated touch screen
Cons 90 003
- So-so 4K video
- Easy external control
First From the looks of it, it’s a modest update to the original Canon EOS M50, but the additions make this entry-level camera a worthy choice over its predecessor. These include an improved autofocus system (including eye detection in photos and videos), as well as significant benefits for HDMI video recording, vertical video recording, and YouTube live streaming capabilities.
Unfortunately, while it’s a great 1080p camera, it’s a poor choice for 4K – no Dual Pixel AF (only contrast definition left) and 1.6x crop.
However, it packs a lot of other technology into its compact body, including a great 24.1MP sensor, 10fps high-speed shooting, and a viewfinder (which many similar DSLRs in this price range lack). It’s a cute and easy to use camera that’s pretty versatile, and is a great DSLR alternative to the Canon Rebel SL3/EOS 250D, with similar capabilities in a more compact body.
Recommended lens kit: Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-5.6
8
Nikon Z fc
Retro look Nikon Z fc is just GORGEOUS
Type: Mirrorless
Sensor: APS-C CMOS
900 32 Megapixels: 20.9 MP
Screen: 3.2 1.04M-dot tilting
Continuous shooting speed: 11fps
Viewfinder: 2.36M-dot EVF
Max video resolution: 4K UHD @ 30p
900 32 user level: Novice / Enthusiast
Pros
- Great Design
- Handling
Cons
- Several lenses with DX mount Z
Nikon Z fc is by far the coolest camera on this list.
This is a retro style mirror machine with circular dial controls, it is fun to use and eye catching. Internally, it’s almost identical to the Nikon Z50, with the same APS-C sensor and processor, and many other specs.
A few extras such as the built-in flash have been omitted, and it’s more expensive than the Z50, so if you don’t care about aesthetics, Nikon’s other DX format camera is a smarter choice. But if you’re the kind of person who can’t resist the best retro cameras, then the Nikon Z fc is exactly what you need. It’s not the cheapest camera for beginners, but you get a lot of features for your money, and its looks may inspire you to get serious about photography.
Recommended Lens Kit: NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR
9
Nikon Z50
Nikon Z50 is essentially the same as the Z fc but designed for no-nonsense practicality
90 032 Type: mirrorless
Sensor: APS-C CMOS
Megapixels: 20.
9 MP
Monitor: 3.2-inch tilting 1.04M dots
900 32 Continuous shooting speed: 11fps
Viewfinder: EVF, 2.36M dots
Max Video Resolution: 4K UHD @ 30p
User Level: Novice / Enthusiast
Pros
- Good price
- Compact body and lens kit
- 4K – video and shooting at 11 fps
Cons
- No in-body stabilization
- Limited lens range
Despite its compact size, the Nikon Z50 has a good grip and comfortable location of external controls, and The built-in kit 16-50mm lens impresses not only with its “pancake” size, but also with its overall performance. Key features are 4K video shooting, 11fps continuous shooting, and the fact that its Z mount is identical to larger cameras, so dedicated Nikkor Z DX lenses, full-frame Nikkor Z lenses, and regular Nikon DSLR lenses via an FTZ adapter can be used.
Best of all, the Z50 offers great value for money, especially when purchased with two lenses.
However, even some time after its release, it still only has three native DX format lenses – meaning that while you’re stuck using older DSLR lenses via an FTZ adapter or larger and more expensive full-frame Nikkor Z lenses that are limited to wide angle photos due to the “crop factor” of the smaller sensor size.
Recommended kit lens: NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR
10
Sony A6000
SLR
Sensor: APS-C
Megapixels : 24.3 MP
Lens mount: Sony E
Screen: 3-inch tilting screen, 921K dots
Viewfinder: EVF, 1440K dots 900 34 Continuous shooting speed: 11fps
Max Video Resolution: Full HD
User Level: Novice / Enthusiast
Pros
- Small and light design
- Built-in EVF
Cons
- No 4K video
- Relatively old model
Although the Sony A6000 is six years old, it is still one of Sony’s best entry-level cameras, especially considering that it can often be bought at a good discount – it is significantly cheaper than the new models A6100, A6400 and A6600 , but almost as good as them in photography of stationary objects.
With a compact camera design and access to Sony’s range of interchangeable lenses, this small camera packs a big punch.
Resolution with the 24.3 megapixel image sensor is very good, although the 1440-dot electronic viewfinder is a bit weak by today’s standards, as well as a 921k-dot display. It doesn’t have the ability to record 4K video, and it doesn’t have the high-tech autofocus system of Sony’s latest A6000 series cameras. But if you can do without them, then the solid construction, image quality, continuous shooting, and autofocus performance are better than you might expect from its price.
Recommended kit lens: Sony 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS
How to choose a camera for beginners
Price: Yes, price is important, especially for beginners, we understand that! However, don’t rule out spending a little more, as this will often allow you to get a lot more features.
Interchangeable Lenses: Your standard lens will only achieve a certain amount, so if you plan to buy more, choose a camera with a choice of interchangeable lenses.
Easy settings: All of the cameras in our ranking have automatic modes to help you boost your confidence, as well as manual settings that come in handy later on when you get more ambitious.
Manual modes: Auto modes on cameras will help you start thinking for you, but it won’t last forever! You will also need manual control, because one day you will want to take control.
Video: 4K has become the new standard for video recording, so if vlogging is your primary interest, go for a more modern 4K capable mirrorless camera.
Mega pixels: Mega pixels affect image quality. However, almost all beginner cameras are in the 16 to 24 MP range, and the difference in results will be negligible.
Kit lenses
If you are buying your first DSLR or mirrorless camera, make sure you get it with the kit lens. While most cameras will be cheaper if you buy just the body, the price difference with the addition of a kit lens is usually small, and much cheaper than buying both separately.
Some entry-level cameras will have several kit lens options, so if there is one we would specifically recommend, we mention it above. However, be careful with very cheap and old kit lenses that sellers are trying to sell that do not have image stabilization, for example. This can save you some money on your purchase, but you’ll probably regret it later.
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9 Best Cameras for Beginners
Author Dmitry Evseenkov Reading 15 min Views 7.9k.
Updated
Canon is one of the most respected and renowned camera manufacturers in the world. They have everything from DSLRs to non-DSLR cameras. They have cameras for users of all skill levels.
If you are looking for a beginner camera, I recommend Canon cameras. They are respected and praised for a reason.
They have a great range of entry level cameras for those taking their first steps into photography.
I’ll help you find the best Canon camera for beginners so you can start shooting the best you can. I’ve compiled a list of the top 9 entry-level Canon cameras with all the details you need to make the right choice.
Contents
Why Canon
Canon is one of the largest and best camera manufacturers in the world. They consistently produce cameras of outstanding quality. But there are other major manufacturers such as Nikon, Sony and Fujifilm. Why should you choose Canon over others?
Canon simply has the best selection of cameras for beginners. They have DSLRs, mirrorless and compact cameras. And all of these options are at the beginner level.
Nikon has the D3500 which is one of the best cameras for beginners. But this DSLR is the main option in their entry-level lineup. Sony and Fujifilm have a few mirrorless options for beginners, but they’re limited.
In addition, Sony cameras can be quite expensive.
Canon offers the perfect option for beginner photographers. Their beginner cameras have all the features you need to master the art of photography. And their extensive roster of models across all categories means you can stay with Canon as you develop your skills. They have options from beginner cameras to professional standard cameras.
What a beginner should pay attention to when choosing a camera
Buying a digital camera for beginners is not so easy. There are many things to consider. And lists of features and specifications can become a maze of information. First of all, you need to think about what kind of photography you want to do. Then you can find characteristics that match your intentions. Here are some of the main features you should look out for.
Camera type: Canon has several different types of cameras in its beginner line. They have DSLRs, mirrorless and compact cameras.
DSLRs are traditional cameras known for their reliability and classic functionality. Mirrorless cameras tend to be smaller than DSLRs and have more modern features such as electronic viewfinders and electronic shutters. Compact cameras offer something simple. They have fixed lenses, are easy to use and fit in your pocket.
Sensor Resolution: The resolution of the image sensor plays a huge role in the image quality of the camera. Other characteristics also play a role in photo quality. However, the resolution of the matrix will give you an idea of what you can expect.
Resolution is measured by the number of megapixels (MP) on the camera’s sensor. The more MP, the higher the image quality. This isn’t always true, but it works as a general rule for beginner photographers.
ISO range: The ISO setting determines how sensitive the image sensor is to light. If you set the ISO to a low value, the quality of the shots will be better, but you will need more light to get the correct exposure.
A higher ISO allows you to shoot in dark situations, but it introduces more digital noise.
A wide ISO range gives you more shooting options. You can shoot in daylight at lower levels, but the higher range allows you to shoot in low light conditions. This is useful for shooting at night or shooting concerts.
Autofocus: Autofocus is a useful feature if you want to try your hand at sports or wildlife photography. It focuses for you, allowing you to focus on getting the shot you want. Subject-tracking autofocus is also useful when shooting in fast motion.
Additional features: Younger photographers may prefer an electronic viewfinder to an optical one. It is also worth paying attention to the presence of Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. They make it very easy to transfer and share photos.
IVASH Photography beginner video on choosing your first camera:
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The 9 Best Canon Cameras for Beginners
We’ve done tests and research to find the best Canon camera for beginners. Our list has something for everyone. We have a Canon camera for you, no matter what kind of photography you want to do and what type of camera you need.
1. Canon EOS Rebel T8i
Canon EOS Rebel T8i
| Camera type | DSLR |
| Approval | 24.1MP |
| ISO | 100-25600 |
| Monitor | 3″ vari-angle touchscreen and viewfinder |
| Video | 4K |
| Burst speed | 7 fps |
The Canon EOS Rebel T8i is a great all-around camera with fantastic photo and video capabilities.
At the same time, Canon maintains ease of operation, so beginners can use it to the maximum. It offers good value for money with a complete lens. And we think this is the best Canon camera for beginners.
The Canon EOS Rebel gives you a variety of exposure control options. There is a fully automatic mode which is ideal for beginners. But you can gradually take control by using semi-automatic shooting modes such as shutter priority and aperture priority modes.
The 24.1 MP sensor is not revolutionary in the world of digital cameras. But it’s great image quality for a beginner enthusiast. You will see a significant jump in quality compared to smartphone cameras: more detail and vibrant colors.
The autofocus system is excellent for an entry-level camera. It uses 45 phase detection points that track the subject throughout the frame. In addition, there is an eye recognition function for people and animals. You will enjoy shooting portraits and wildlife.
Video recording is another feature that newbies will love. The Canon EOS Rebel T8i lets you shoot 4K video, perfect for getting started with videography. And the swivel screen makes it easy to film yourself for vlogging.
DSLR cameras tend to have bulkier bodies. But the Rebel T8i’s ergonomic design fits comfortably in your hand, so you’ll get used to it quickly. You have an electronic and optical viewfinder. The electronic viewfinder is handy, but it drastically reduces battery life.
2. Canon EOS M50 Mark II
Canon EOS M50 Mark II
| Camera type | Mirrorless |
| Approval | 24.1MP |
| ISO | 100-51200 |
| Monitor | 3″ vari-angle touchscreen |
| Video | 4K |
| Burst speed | 10 fps |
The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is the ideal mirrorless camera for beginners.
It is affordable for a mirrorless camera. It has all the features and functionality to captivate the young photographer, making it one of the best Canon cameras for beginners.
24.1 MP crop-size (APS-C) sensor for excellent image quality. And the ISO 100-51200 range means fantastic low-light performance. The DIGIC 8 image processor also helps maintain quality. It also improved the performance of the autofocus system.
The Canon EOS M50 Mark II also captures stunning 4K video. You can shoot at 120 fps for slow motion. The autofocus burst speed is 10 frames per second.
Rotatable EVF makes vlogging easier. In addition, the camera can be used for live broadcasts on Twitch, YouTube and Instagram. The Canon Webcam Utility App turns your Canon camera into a webcam.
3. Canon EOS M200
Canon EOS M200
| Camera type | Mirrorless Compact |
| Approval | 24.1MP |
| ISO | 100-25600 |
| Monitor | Rotating LCD monitor 3″ |
| Video | 4K |
| Burst speed | 6. 1 fps |
The Canon EOS M200 is a great entry-level camera for those new to photography. This is a compact camera that is easy to use and the results will increase your enthusiasm for photography.
Get the superb image quality you expect from a Canon camera. And they squeezed an APS-C sensor into a compact and lightweight body. The 24.1MP resolution is impressive for a point-and-shoot camera.
Vloggers and streamers will also love the Canon EOS M200. You have 4K video for videos. There is also a great 4K time-lapse feature. There is a rotating screen for selfies, and you can shoot in vertical mode so that your shots fit perfectly on your smartphone screen.
Autofocus features face and eye detection to help you shoot portraits and vlogs. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity makes it easy to transfer and share images and videos. And the Canon Camera Connect app lets you shoot remotely.
4. Canon EOS Rebel SL3
Canon EOS Rebel SL3
| Camera type | DSLR |
| Approval | 24. 1MP |
| ISO | 100-25600 |
| Monitor | 3″ vari-angle screen / optical viewfinder |
| Video | 4K |
| Burst speed | 5 fps |
The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 is another great entry-level DSLR. It comes with an 18-55mm lens, making it suitable for portraits, landscapes and street photography. Ease of use and performance make it one of the best Canon DSLRs for beginners.
The 24.1MP sensor and DIGIC 8 processor combine to produce stunning photos with excellent detail and color reproduction. Dual pixel CMOS autofocus is fast and accurate, while eye detection helps with portraits and wildlife.
Some younger users may find the optical viewfinder difficult to get used to. But it can help novice photographers compose shots. Plus, you have a variable-angle screen to help with settings and in-camera editing.
The maximum burst speed of 5 frames per second is slow by today’s standards.
But 4K video is more than enough for aspiring filmmakers. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth options are also great for sharing images and videos online.
5. Canon PowerShot SX70 HS
Canon PowerShot SX70 HS
| Camera type | Bridge camera |
| Approval | 20.3 MP |
| ISO | 100-3200 |
| Monitor | 3″ LCD touch screen |
| Video | 4K |
| Burst speed | 10 fps |
Canon PowerShot SX70 HS is a bridge camera. It has all the functions of a SLR camera, but at the same time it is easy to operate, like a compact one. The lens is non-removable, so you don’t have to spend money on additional parts. In addition, this model has great features, making it one of the best Canon cameras for beginners.
The resolution of the matrix is 20.3 megapixels. It’s lower than the other options on this list, but the DIGIC 8 processor delivers maximum performance so you’ll still get incredible photos.
Canon’s fixed zoom lens delivers 65x magnification, putting you right in the middle of the action. This is one of the best Canon cameras for beginner sports and wildlife photographers. And in-body image stabilization reduces camera shake when zooming in.
You also have a 4K video with a bonus timelapse feature. There is burst shooting at 10 frames per second. There is Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. And you have the option to use the optical viewfinder as well as the LCD screen.
6. Canon EOS RP
Canon EOS RP
| Camera type | Full frame mirrorless camera |
| Approval | 26.2 MP |
| ISO | 100-40000 |
| Monitor | 3″ vari-angle touchscreen |
| Video | 4K |
| Burst speed | 5 fps |
The Canon EOS RP is a full-frame digital mirrorless camera.
And while full-frame cameras are not often associated with the beginner market, the Canon EOS RP is a good choice for beginner photographers. Specifications are great for beginners, but the price is higher.
Full frame sensor provides 26.2 MP image resolution. The image quality is just fantastic. And optical image stabilization provides 5 stops of jitter reduction for crisp photos.
The autofocus system is excellent, with 143 AF areas that provide 88% frame coverage. It is fixed in less than a second and tracks the movement of the subject through the frame. It performs excellently in low light conditions, which allows you to not lose focus when shooting at night.
Burst speed is slow, only 5 fps. But 4K video is great. Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity is also available. You can use the camera as a webcam. A fully articulating screen will help you with this.
7. Canon EOS 7D Mark II
Canon EOS 7D Mark II
| Camera type | DSLR |
| Approval | 20. 2MP |
| ISO | 100-16000 |
| Monitor | 3″ LCD screen |
| Video | Full HD |
| Burst speed | 10 fps |
The Canon EOS 7D Mark II is a little outdated. But it remains one of the best Canon cameras for beginners. This is a classic DSLR with all the features an aspiring photographer needs to get started. It’s simple, easy to use, and affordable, making it the perfect entry-level camera.
The 20.2MP camera is not revolutionary, but you will see a significant improvement in image quality over smartphone cameras. And the ISO 100-16000 range allows you to try new types of shooting.
The autofocus system is still on top. It uses a 65-point cross-type system that quickly finds and locks on to your subject so you don’t miss the moment. And dual-pixel CMOS AF allows you to shoot video with full autofocus support.
Novice videographers will be disappointed that the camera does not have 4K video.
Full HD video is decent, but this camera can’t compete with Canon’s new cameras when it comes to video. This model is aimed at enthusiastic photographers. And they’ll be happy to know that it’s still one of the best Canon cameras for beginners. 8. Canon EOS Rebel T7
Canon EOS Rebel T7
| Camera type | DSLR |
| Resolution | 24.1MP |
| ISO | 100-12800 |
| Monitor | 3″ vari-angle screen / optical viewfinder |
| Video | Full HD |
| Burst speed | 3 k/s |
In many ways, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 has been surpassed by the newer Rebel models. But the Canon EOS Rebel T7 is still a great entry-level camera, offering all the specs and features you’d expect from an entry-level camera.
Canon EOS Rebel T7 more than confidently holds its position in terms of image quality.
The 24.1 MP camera can be compared to any camera on this list. And the DIGIC 4+ processor provides the best quality.
The maximum continuous shooting speed is only 3 fps, which is slow by any standards. And the lack of 4K video speaks volumes about the age of the camera. But Full HD footage will still delight novice filmmakers. And Wi-Fi connectivity makes it easy to share photos on social media.
You can use the Canon EOS Rebel T7 as a webcam by connecting it to your computer via USB. And with the Canon Camera Connect app available for iOS and Android phones, you have the option of shooting remotely. Unfortunately, battery life isn’t fantastic.
9. Canon PowerShot G7X Mark II
Canon PowerShot G7X Mark II
| Camera type | Compact Camera |
| Approval | 20.1MP |
| ISO | 125-12800 |
| Monitor | 3″ LDC screen and viewfinder |
| Video | Full HD |
| Burst speed | 8 fps |
The Canon PowerShot G7X Mark II is another great camera for beginners.
There are some great models in Canon’s line of compact cameras. And the PowerShot G7X MII has great specs and image stabilization, making it one of the best Canon cameras for beginners.
The camera is equipped with a 1-inch sensor. But despite its small size, you get an image resolution of 20.1 MP. The Canon fixed zoom lens has excellent optical quality. This is a 4.2x zoom lens. And the image stabilization mechanism keeps photos sharp at full zoom.
At the minimum focal length, the maximum aperture of the lens is f/1.8. The maximum aperture changes to f/2.8 only at full zoom. This gives you great options when the lighting conditions are not ideal.
The burst rate of 8fps is decent for a pocket camera. It is ideal for shooting sports or fast action. Video is only shot in Full HD, not 4K. But thanks to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth options, you can share your photos and videos in just a few seconds.
The swivel screen is ideal for taking selfies or vlogging.
In addition, there is the possibility of vertical video shooting. Your vlogs will fit perfectly into your social media account. It is compact, lightweight and affordable. Battery life is also decent. As a point-and-shoot, this is one of the best Canon cameras for beginners.
Conclusion
Finding the best camera for beginners is not easy. There are many things to consider. There are different types of cameras. There are photo cameras and video cameras. And you have to consider your budget.
But no matter what you’re looking for, you can be sure that Canon has something for you. This is one of the most famous and respected manufacturers. And there are many Canon cameras for beginners. The
Canon Rebel T8i is our top pick for a beginner Canon camera. This is the best all-round camera with great performance for both stills and videos. There’s the Canon EOS M50 II if you’re into vlogging. And the Canon EOS M200 is the perfect option if you need something compact.