Best dslr for entry level

Best Entry-Level DSLRs of 2022, Ranked

Not long ago, I had a chance to test several entry-level DSLRs side by side and review which ones were the best. Today, I’d like to circle back and rank some of these cameras for photographers who are trying to decide on a DSLR, either for yourself or as a gift. Hopefully, this list gives you a good idea of which camera will be right for you.

Early 2022 Update: Since this article was first published, almost every camera on the list below has changed in price, some more than others. The rankings below have been updated accordingly.

What Counts as an Entry-Level DSLR?

My first DSLR was the Nikon D5100, which is almost the definition of entry-level. But when I heard people actually call it entry-level, I was taken aback. It was a good camera! I had saved money and spent a lot of hours researching which one to buy, but pros nonetheless dismissed it as “consumer” or “amateur.” The few times I heard people call the D5100 a “prosumer” camera, I nodded in agreement. And prosumer is a ridiculous word.

Nikon D5100 + 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 @ 32mm, ISO 100, 6 seconds, f/22.0

That’s my way of saying that the cameras on this list are still really good, even though the title of the article says “entry-level.” The category of the camera doesn’t determine the category of the photographer. Besides, I stretched the definition a bit just because I wanted to do a great top-10 list and needed to reach the quota. Other than a few older or obsolete DSLRs that are still sold new for some reason, this guide includes every current entry-level DSLR on the market; it’s the most comprehensive list you’ll find anywhere today.

In total, I’ve ranked six DSLRs from Canon, two from Nikon, and two from Pentax. The overwhelming number of Canon cameras is simply because Canon’s lineup has more entry-level DSLRs at the moment. It’s not a sign of Canon favoritism (and you might notice that the bottom spot belongs to Canon, whoops). In fact, one camera from each manufacturer makes it to the top three. I didn’t plan that ahead of time, but it’s a pretty nice sign that each company is competitive in this space.

Last, I have to mention my (somewhat boring) takeaway after testing several entry-level cameras last year: They’re all very similar in quality, without any real duds among them. The difference between the best and worst cameras on the list below is surprisingly small. Your individual needs – say, a desire to shoot video more than stills – could shift where each camera falls for you, perhaps significantly.

Don’t Buy the Bundle

Before jumping into the rankings below, take just a moment to heed a quick warning: Don’t buy that all-purpose photography bundle!

Most of the cameras in this article, due to their price range, are targeted largely at first-time DSLR buyers. As a result, you can buy most of them as a bundle with lots of extra photography accessories. This sounds good since it saves you some effort buying accessories separately – but the equipment included in these bundles is often quite overpriced.

Here’s just one example. Right now, on Amazon, you can buy the Nikon D3500 with a kit lens for $560. Or, for $660, you can add two 32 GB memory cards, a remote shutter release, a bag, a flash, a filter kit, and two converters to turn the lens into a wider angle and a tighter telephoto. That sounds like quite a deal, right? But it’s actually very overpriced.

In practice, the only useful accessories in that bundle are the memory cards and the remote shutter release (and maybe the bag). The filters are going to be low in quality, and as we’ve shown before, a bad filter clearly harms the sharpness and flare performance of your camera system. The wide-angle and telephoto converters are just novelties; your image quality generally will be terrible when using either of them. And the flash isn’t automatic, just a cheap manual one.

Instead, you can buy two better 32 GB memory cards for $9 apiece, a generic AmazonBasics remote for $11 (the other one is generic anyway), and a simple bag.

This isn’t to say all photography bundles are low quality, but that it’s easy to get a bad one if you’re just starting out and don’t know any better. When in doubt, don’t buy the bundle, and get all the accessories you need separately instead.

Now that you know the basics, here’s the list of the top 10 entry-level DSLRs available today, ranked from worst to best:

10. Canon Rebel T6 / EOS 1300D

One of the few DSLRs on this list that I wouldn’t recommend is the Canon Rebel T6 (also known as the Canon EOS 1300D). That’s simply because it sells for $450 with a kit lens – a good price, but equal to the newer T7! Although the two are practically identical cameras, the T7 has a 24-megapixel sensor rather than 18 on this T6. So, I don’t really see why anyone would buy the T6 kit at its current price, aside from being confused by Canon’s sprawling DSLR lineup. These days, the T6 is rarely found for sale new anyway and you’d have to look for something used or refurbished.

However, speaking of buying used or refurbished, you can sometimes find a good deal on the T6 camera that includes a 70-300mm zoom alongside the regular kit, making it potentially a very good buy indeed. Last year, around the holidays on Canon’s own website, the T6 was sold with two lenses – the 18-55mm kit lens and a 75-300mm telephoto – refurbished for $280. At such a price, the T6 would jump up higher than #10 and potentially be one of the better options on this list just because of value. So, it’s really all about price.

(There is also a relatively similar camera known as the 4000D – or 3000D in some markets – which is not generally sold in the US, but retails for potentially even less at $340 or so.)

9. Pentax KP

The 24-megapixel Pentax KP is one of the most advanced DSLRs on this list, positioned just at the edge of entry-level. It also has the highest-end control layout of all ten cameras here. You actually get three separate dials to change camera settings, which is more than can be said of most $3000+ professional cameras.

So, why is this camera only at position number nine? It all has to do with value. The Pentax KP is $1100 with an 18-55mm kit lens, making it double the cost of some other cameras on this list. Arguably, too, the less expensive priced Canon 77D has better core specifications, without compromising much on advanced controls. The $700 Canon T7i and Nikon D5600 both beat it in core specifications, although they don’t have the same high-end layout. In fact, Pentax’s own K-70 is quite comparable to the KP, despite costing $750 instead (and often going on sale for $650).

If build quality and control layout are at the top of your priorities, and you have a bigger budget, don’t dismiss the Pentax KP entirely. It’s still a strong camera – perhaps in the top three on this list if you ignore the price. But when you take value into account, you can get more camera for your money with other options below.

8. Canon Rebel T7 / EOS 2000D

The Canon T7 isn’t all that old of a camera (from February 2018), but its specifications feel outdated. The camera has 24 megapixels, 3 frames per second shooting, and a 9-point autofocus system. It doesn’t have a touchscreen or a tilt-flip screen for taking pictures at tricky angles. However, it sells for just $450 including a kit lens. Because many camera companies have been raising their prices of entry-level DSLRs, this makes the T7 one of the best values on this list.

Canon has two different 24-megapixel APS-C sensors (with “APS-C” meaning that the sensor measures 22.2 millimeters in width). The Rebel T7 has the older one. So, you won’t get quite the level of image quality as with the newest APS-C Canon cameras – and we’ve found that even those lag behind Nikon’s sensors in low light. Nevertheless, this is still a high-quality camera sensor, capable of detailed photos in both daytime and nighttime conditions. In fact, every DSLR on this list has very good image quality, and the differences are mainly visible under exaggerated conditions.

Here’s a quick table comparing Canon’s popular entry-level cameras, including the T7:

	T6 / 1300D	T7 / 2000D / 1500D	T6i / 750D	T7i / 800D	T8i / 850D	SL3 / 200D
Announcement Date	March 2016	February 2018	February 2015	February 2017	February 2020	June 2017
Megapixels	18	24	24	24	24	24
Autofocus Points	9	9	19	45	45	9
Continuous Shooting	3 fps	3 fps	5 fps	6 fps	7 fps	5 fps
LCD Tilt-Flip Capability	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Dual Pixel AF	No	No	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
4K Video	No	No	No	No	Yes	Yes
Battery Life	500 photos	500 photos	440 photos	600 photos	800 photos	1070 photos
Weight (with battery and card)	485 g	475 g	555 g	532 g	515 g	449 g
Price (early 2022, with 18-55mm kit lens)	$450	$450	$650	$860	$900	$700

7.

Canon Rebel T6i / 750D

One solid value in Canon’s lineup of entry-level DSLRs today is the Rebel T6i / EOS 750D, released in February 2015. Perhaps because of this camera’s age, Canon has been putting some decent discounts on the T6i, which now sells for just $650 with a kit lens (though you won’t always be able to find it selling new with a lens, probably because Canon replaced most of its inventory with the newer T7i and T8i).

This camera ticks a lot of the right boxes: a 24-megapixel sensor (though the older one), 19 autofocus points, 5 FPS shooting, and a tilt-flip touchscreen. The T6i does not have dual pixel AF, however, which does harm its prospects for video. And keep in mind that the 24-megapixel sensor is Canon’s older version, which doesn’t perform quite as well as its competition in low light (including the Nikon and Pentax cameras on this list, plus the newer Canons).

However, the T6i falls behind the Canon Rebel SL3, T7i, and T8i, all of which I’ve ranked higher than it. Those cameras all have the newer 24-megapixel sensor, and they’re lighter, more advanced cameras in other ways as well. The difference comes down to price, and to me, the price savings of the T6i aren’t enough to justify its weaker features.

There is also a version of the T6i with a slightly more advanced layout called the Canon T6s. It has two dials and a top LCD but otherwise is identical to the T6i. However, it sells for $650 body only (so you’d need to buy the lens separately), which means it is overpriced by comparison. I don’t think it’s worth considering unless you find a deal that brings it within $50 of the T6i in price, including a lens.

6. Canon Rebel T7i / EOS 800D

Every camera from here on out is what I’d consider a good buy for the typical consumer. Even though the Canon Rebel T7i / EOS 80D ranks sixth, it’s one of the most balanced cameras on the market and offers some pretty impressive features.

For example, the T7i builds on the T6i with 45 autofocus points, dual pixel AF, and the newer 24-megapixel sensor. However, at $860 (and difficult to find new), it’s more expensive than it should be. Canon is probably pushing you to get the newer, $900 T8i instead.

Before you settle on this camera, take a look at the Canon Rebel SL3 (more than $150 less at $700, matching or exceeding many of the T7i’s specifications). Or the $800 Nikon D5600, which is very similar to the T7i, but weighs less and has better battery life.

That said, if you find a good deal on the T7i or its specifications seem perfect for you, go for it. This camera is a pleasure to use – one of my favorites from testing – with a great LCD and an excellent kit lens.

Canon EOS Rebel T7i + EF-S18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM @ 31mm, ISO 100, 1/100, f/5.0

5. Canon T8i

The Canon T8i, released in early 2020, is an advanced camera in many ways, and it includes almost all of Canon’s newest bells and whistles. But it costs $900, the second most expensive camera on this list.

The T8i sports an excellent 45-point autofocus system in the viewfinder, and it has a tilt-flip touchscreen. Perhaps even more important is that the T8i includes Canon’s famous “dual pixel autofocus” to focus quickly and accurately via the rear LCD screen (whereas most DSLRs mainly focus well through the viewfinder). It also has Canon’s newest 24-megapixel sensor for excellent quality images, and shoots in 4K video. (It and the SL3 are the only two cameras on this list that have 4K.) Compared to the prior Canon T7i, it has 7 FPS instead of 6 FPS shooting and somewhat better battery life (800 versus 600 shots).

Unfortunately, the $900 price is a steep asking point. You wouldn’t lose much by going with a camera like the Canon T7i, Nikon D5600, or Pentax K-70 if you’re trying to save some money. Yes, the T8i is more advanced than most of those cameras, but not drastically so. At least consider the less expensive options before you make the leap.

4. Nikon D5600

Next up is the Nikon D5600, which is one of the best entry-level DSLRs available today. When I reviewed the D5600, I wrote: “in many ways, it is the perfect option for people who just want an advanced camera that gets out of their way. ”

So, why didn’t I rank it number one? For a long time, I did; you’ll see plenty of references to that in the comments section below. But recently, Nikon decided to boost the D5600’s price (with a kit lens) from a brilliant $550 to a less exciting $800. That’s enough to shift this camera pretty far in the rankings.

That said, the D5600 is a great camera. Having tested it side-by-side against Canon’s 45-point AF system on the T7i and T8i, the D5600’s 39-point autofocus system worked better. The Canon T8i shoots 7 FPS rather than the 5 FPS on this camera – but the D5600’s better autofocus means it’s still the slightly better camera for action photography. Beyond that, the two cameras are quite similar, but the D5600 weighs less (465 vs 515 grams) and has a better battery life (970 vs 800 photos).

So, if you’re looking for the best autofocus system on this list, arguably the best camera sensor, a great lineup of native lenses, a tilt-flip touchscreen, and a lightweight kit overall, the D5600 is an excellent choice. The only issue is the price; at $550, it was a no-brainer and clearly the #1 camera on this list, while at $800, it’s overpriced. That said, I recommend checking the current price. If you find it even slightly on sale, it’s probably my #1 recommendation. (I update this article pretty frequently to reflect changing prices, but Nikon puts these cameras on sale all the time.)

If you want to save money, you can always buy an older model from the Nikon D5600 lineup, many of which are available used or refurbished for a great price. In fact, that’s my top recommendation of all: Get an older D5000-series camera if you find a good deal, even if it’s refurbished or used.

Here’s a quick table showing the differences between the D5600 and the prior versions. Even back to the D5200, this is a great lineup of cameras, and all of them are worth considering today if you want to save some money. The differences between them are not very big, to be frank:

Camera Feature	Nikon D5200	Nikon D5300	Nikon D5500	Nikon D5600
Announced	November 2012	October 2013	January 2015	November 2016
Sensor Resolution	24 Megapixels	24 Megapixels	24 Megapixels	24 Megapixels
AA Filter	Yes	No	No	No
Image Processor	EXPEED 3	EXPEED 4	EXPEED 4	EXPEED 4
Autofocus	39-point Multi-CAM 4800DX	39-point Multi-CAM 4800DX	39-point Multi-CAM 4800DX	39-point Multi-CAM 4800DX
Frame Rate	5 FPS	5 FPS	5 FPS	5 FPS
LCD Size	3″ Diagonal	3. 2″ Diagonal	3.2″ Diagonal	3.2″ Diagonal
LCD Resolution	921,000 dots	1,036,800 dots	1,036,800 dots	1,036,800 dots
Built-in GPS	No	Yes	No	No, but can use your phone’s GPS data via SnapBridge
Built-in WiFi	No	Yes	Yes	Yes
Built-in Bluetooth	No	No	No	Yes
SnapBridge	No	No	No	Yes
Max Video Frame Rate	60i	60p	60p	60p
Touchscreen	No	No	Yes	Yes
Battery Life	500	600	820	970
Weight (with battery and card)	555 g (1.22 lbs)	530 g (1.17 lbs)	470 g (1.04 lbs)	465 g (1.03 lbs)
Dimensions	129 × 98 × 78mm	125 × 98 × 76mm	124 × 97 × 70mm	124 × 97 × 70mm

NIKON D5600 + 18-55mm f/3.

5-5.6 @ 55mm, ISO 100, 1/100, f/8.0NIKON D5600 + 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 @ 20mm, ISO 400, 1/320, f/8.0NIKON D5600 + 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 @ 34mm, ISO 200, 1/50, f/8.0NIKON D5600 + 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 @ 18mm, ISO 100, 1/200, f/8.0

3. Pentax K-70

If you want a combination of top build quality, advanced controls, and a tilt-flip screen, look no further than the Pentax K-70.

This is an excellent and overlooked camera for beginners, and it’s a good value at $750 (check current price, as it often goes on sale for $650). With a 24 megapixel sensor, 11 viewfinder autofocus points, and 6 FPS shooting, the K-70 is a highly capable camera with few downsides. It even has “hybrid AF” in live view, similar to Canon’s dual pixel AF and great for video shooters.

Any issues with the K-70 depend upon your personal requirements, including how much you’re willing to invest in a smaller DSLR company. Canon and Nikon are certainly more established names in the camera business, with a larger camera and lens lineup should you wish to upgrade in the future. That said, Pentax does also make some full-frame DSLRs, so you do have an upgrade path if you pick this camera.

The nearest competitors to the K-70 are the Canon T7i and Nikon D5600. All of these cameras are priced within $100 of each other and have very similar specifications. To me, though, the K-70’s more rugged build quality and better handling – especially the second control dial – are more valuable than the lighter weight and better autofocus of the Nikon and Canon. But not all photographers will agree; in fact, I’m probably in the minority there.

Still, for photographers who put a priority on build quality and an advanced control layout – say, landscape photographers who know they’ll be shooting in bad weather – the Pentax very well could be the top camera for you. Although 11 autofocus points isn’t much, everything else about the camera is hard to beat and worth the price. If you find it on sale for $650, it could be my top recommendation of the group.

2. Nikon D3500

Nikon’s D3000 lineup is arguably the best value for a DSLR today, and the D3500 is an excellent continuation of the previous versions (see our review). This is often the first DSLR I recommend to my friends who want a new camera.

The D3500 is currently $650 with a kit lens. (Prices can fluctuate, and I saw it at $450 not long ago; check current D3500 price.) Nikon has gradually raised the price on this camera over the years, but at $650, it’s still a solid value.

What’s more, the D3500’s 24-megapixel camera sensor is excellent – the same as on the D5600, which is perhaps the best APS-C sensor on the market today. If the image quality is all you care about, the D3500 is equal to or better than every other camera on this list – not a small feat considering its low price.

In that case, why isn’t it ranked number one? A few things. First, although the D3500’s image sensor is fantastic, cameras are about more than just a sensor. Other factors like ease of use, autofocus system, screen quality, and so on, also play a role. These are all areas where the D3500 sometimes falls behind the competition.

To start, the camera’s LCD does not tilt or flip at all, and it’s not a touchscreen. Video shooters especially will want to look at something like the Nikon D5600 or Canon SL3 instead, which fixes those problems.

The D3500’s autofocus system also has pretty low specifications, although it surprised me in practice with how accurate it was. Still, the D3500 only has eleven autofocus points in the viewfinder – simply not enough to track a subject around the entire frame. If you’re photographing something that moves fast, like sports or other performances, you might want a camera with a better autofocus system. Look at something like the D5600 or Canon T7i for good autofocus on a reasonable budget, or the Canon 77D or Pentax KP if your budget is a bit higher.

The Nikon D3000 lineup has been the company’s least expensive DSLR line for years – the fewest features, but also the best prices. Unfortunately, Nikon’s recent updates to this lineup didn’t add much. Compared to the D3400, the D3500 has a slight increase in battery life, a deeper grip, and a one-ounce weight reduction (30 grams). That said, I’ve now used the D3500 for some extensive field tests, and it clearly is an improvement. The biggest point in its favor is the grip; the D3400 had a very uncomfortable grip that we complained about in our review, while the D3500 is very comfortable to hold.

If budget is your main concern, I wouldn’t necessarily get the newest version of this camera. The D3500 isn’t all that different from the D3200 that launched way back in April 2012, let alone the D3300 and D3400. All of the older versions are discontinued, but you can still find them refurbished or used from plenty of sources, with excellent prices. Here’s a table showing the progress of all of Nikon’s D3000 series DSLRs since the Nikon D3100:

	Nikon D3100	Nikon D3200	Nikon D3300	Nikon D3400	Nikon D3500
Announced	August 2010	April 2012	January 2014	August 2016	August 2018
Megapixels	14. 2	24	24	24	24
Autofocus Points	11	11	11	11	11
Max Frame Rate (Stills)	3 fps	4 fps	5 fps	5 fps	5 fps
Viewfinder Magnification	0.8×	0.8×	0.85×	0.85×	0.85×
LCD Screen	230,000 dots	921,000 dots	921,000 dots	921,000 dots	921,000 dots
ISO Sensitivity	100-12,800	100-12,800	100-25,600	100-25,600	100-25,600
Max Video Frame Rate at 1920 × 1080	24 fps	30 fps	60 fps	60 fps	60 fps
Bluetooth	No	No	No	Yes, which lets you use SnapBridge	Yes, which lets you use SnapBridge
Remote Shooting	With IR remote	With IR remote	With IR remote	With IR remote	With your phone via SnapBridge
GPS	Yes, with GP-1 or GP-1A	Yes, with GP-1 or GP-1A	Yes, with GP-1A	Yes, with SnapBridge	Yes, with SnapBridge
Battery Life	550 shots	540 shots	700 shots	1200 shots	1550 shots
Weight (Body Only)	16. 0 oz / 455 g	16.0 oz / 455 g	14.5 oz / 410 g	13.9 oz / 395 g	12.9 oz / 365 g
Dimensions	124.5 × 96.5 × 73.7 mm	127 × 97 × 79 mm	124.5 × 99.1 × 76.2 mm	124 × 98 × 75.5 mm	124 × 97 × 70 mm

NIKON D3500 + 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6 @ 52mm, ISO 100, 1.3 seconds, f/6.3NIKON D3500 + 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6 @ 50mm, ISO 100, 1/500, f/5.6NIKON D3500 + 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6 @ 105mm, ISO 100, 1/1, f/5.6

1. Canon Rebel SL3 / 250D

The top camera on this list is the Canon SL3 / EOS 250D. It’s a great camera, and tremendous fun to use.

The SL3 is tiny and lightweight, yet the grip is still comfortable, and it has some of Canon’s most advanced features (including the newer 24-megapixel sensor). When I reviewed the nearly identical previous version (the Canon SL2) in New Mexico’s Bisti Badlands and Chicago’s glass-and-steel cityscape, I came away with the impression that this is a fantastic camera for any photographer – not just for a first-time DSLR shooter, even though that is the SL3’s target audience.

The main features? The SL3 has an excellent touchscreen LCD, with a full range of tilting motion for easy composition (like the Nikon D5600). And the 24-megapixel sensor is Canon’s newest, with excellent image quality, though it still lags slightly behind Nikon in low light (for the technically minded, no more than one stop of difference at high ISOs, based on our tests). Video users also will be happy to hear that the SL3 has dual pixel autofocus, the least expensive Canon camera to include it.

The big difference compared to the earlier SL2 is that, like the T8i, the SL3 has 4K video – although it only works with a heavy 2.64x crop relative to full-frame.

The Canon SL3 currently sells for $700 with a kit lens (also in stock at Amazon and Adorama if backordered on B&H), which is in line with other cameras on this list despite the more comprehensive features. Compared to the Nikon D3500, for example, it adds a tilt-flip screen, 4K video, and dual pixel AF, making it much more useful for video. I also prefer the kit lens that comes with the SL3 in terms of ergonomics and size. The two cameras are otherwise pretty similar, so if you don’t shoot much video, you could get the excellent D3500 instead.

Alternatively, you can still buy the older SL2 used for less money. The SL2 also has a tilt-flip screen and dual pixel AF; it just doesn’t have 4K video, and its battery life is a bit worse. Everything else is the same between the SL2 and SL3.

And that’s what it takes to be number one! However, before you focus too much on the specific rankings here, let me return for a moment to the #6 camera on this list, the Canon T7i. That camera loses to the SL3 in weight (532 vs 449 grams), price ($800 vs $700), image quality (old vs new 24-megapixel sensor), battery life (600 vs 1070), and video (no 4K option). But beats it in autofocus performance (45 vs 9 autofocus points) and frame rate (6 FPS vs 5 FPS). If you’re thinking that the T7i could easily be the preferred option for some sports-oriented photographers, you’re completely right. The difference from #6 to #1 on this list is pretty small. But in those small differences, the SL3 wins out.

Canon EOS Rebel SL2 + EF-S18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM @ 55mm, ISO 100, 1/250, f/7.1Canon EOS Rebel SL2 + EF-S18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM @ 18mm, ISO 500, 1/30, f/6.3

Complete Table

After seeing all the cameras in list form, I thought it would be useful to compare all these DSLRs and their key specifications in a table as well, hopefully to help you understand the specifications of each one a bit more clearly. For size purposes, I’ve divided it into two tables, first with cameras ranked tenth through sixth:

Feature	Canon T6 / 1300D	Pentax KP	Canon T7 / 2000D / 1500D	Canon T6i / 750D	Canon T7i / 800D
Ranking	10th	9th	8th	7th	6th
Announced	March 2016	January 2017	March 2018	February 2015	February 2017
Sensor Resolution	18 Megapixels	24 Megapixels	24 Megapixels (older version)	24 Megapixels (newer version)	24 Megapixels (newer version)
Autofocus Points	9	27	9	45	45
Frame Rate	3 FPS	7 FPS	3 FPS	5 FPS	6 FPS
LCD Type	Fixed	Tilt	Fixed	Tilt-flip	Tilt-flip
Touchscreen	No	No	No	Yes	Yes
Max Video Specs	1920 × 1080p, 30 fps	1920 × 1080p, 60 fps	1920 × 1080p, 30 fps	1920 × 1080p, 30 fps	1920 × 1080p, 60 fps
Battery Life	500 photos	390 photos	500 photos	440 photos	600 photos
Control Layout	Basic	Advanced	Basic	Basic	Basic
Weight (with battery and card)	485 g	703 g	475 g	555 g	532 g
Dimensions (W×H×D)	129. 0 × 101.3 × 77.6mm	131.5 × 101.0 × 76.0mm	129.0 × 101.3 × 77.6mm	131.9 × 100.9 × 77.8mm	131.0 × 99.9 × 76.2mm
Price (early 2022, with 18-55mm kit lens)	$450	$1100	$450	$650	$860

And then cameras ranked fifth through first:

Feature	Canon T8i / 850D	Nikon D5600	Pentax K-70	Nikon D3500	Canon SL3 / 250D
Ranking	5th	4th	3rd	2nd	1st
Announced	February 2020	November 2016	June 2016	August 2018	April 2019
Sensor Resolution	24 Megapixels (newer version)	24 Megapixels	24 Megapixels	24 Megapixels	24 Megapixels (newer version)
Autofocus Points	45	39	11	11	9
Frame Rate	7 FPS	5 FPS	6 FPS	5 FPS	5 FPS
LCD Type	Tilt-flip	Tilt-flip	Tilt-flip	Fixed	Tilt-flip
Touchscreen	Yes	Yes	No	No	Yes
Max Video Specs	3840 × 2160, 24 fps; and 1920 × 1080p, 60 fps	1920 × 1080p, 60 fps	1920 × 1080p, 30 fps (and 1920 × 1080i, 60 fps)	1920 × 1080p, 60 fps	3840 × 2160, 24 fps; and 1920 × 1080p, 60 fps
Battery Life	800 photos	970 photos	410 photos	1550 photos	1070 photos
Control Layout	Basic	Basic	Advanced	Basic	Basic
Weight (with battery and card)	515 g	465 g	688 g	415 g	449 g
Dimensions (W×H×D)	131 × 103 × 76 mm	124 × 97 × 70mm	125. 5 × 93 × 74mm	124 × 97 × 70mm	122 × 93 × 70 mm
Price (early 2022, with 18-55mm kit lens)	$900	$800	$750	$650	$700

Conclusion

Even though the Canon SL3 is number one on this list, remember that it isn’t necessarily the best camera for your needs. If you’d rather pay $100 extra for better autofocus and forego 4K video, the D5600 might be your top choice. Or, if you want great advanced controls and top build quality, the Pentax K-70 could be the way to go. The same is true of the D3400 for its impressive value and battery life, or any camera you find on sale for a great price. The point is, you have plenty of options.

That said, I hope this article gave you a good idea of where to start when you’re looking for an entry-level DSLR. There are so many cameras available today that things can get a bit overwhelming, but the list above encompasses nearly every current entry-level DSLR available today, as of early 2022. Keep in mind that the prices on these cameras fluctuate, sometimes quite a bit. If you get a good deal on any of the cameras in this article, it could be worth taking. Again, there’s not a dud in the bunch – just some cameras priced higher or lower than they should be, based on their competitors.

And most importantly, these might be “entry-level” DSLRs, but they’re all good enough to let you take high-quality photos. If you aren’t getting the pictures you want, it’s time to work on your technique instead!

The 4 Best DSLR Cameras For Beginners - Fall 2022: Reviews

Table of Contents
Intro
Best Camera
1. Best Mid-Range
  1. Best Upper Mid-Range
    1. Best Portable
      1. Notable Mentions
      2. Recent Updates
      3. All Reviews
      4. Discussions
      Updated Nov 15, 2022 at 08:49 am
      By Adriana Wiszniewska
      While mirrorless cameras have all but won out the battle for the hearts of consumers, there's still a lot to love about DSLRs, from optical viewfinders that give you an unfiltered view of your subjects to unrivaled battery performance to generous handgrips and ergonomics that have defined the shooting experience for generations of photographers. You can also find DSLRs for cheaper, especially if you look at the used market, which is great for beginners. While it can be tempting to jump right into the most expensive 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.
      Below you'll find our recommendations for the best DSLR cameras for beginners, narrowed down from over 75 cameras that we've bought and tested. If you think you'd prefer a mirrorless camera, 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.
      1. Best DSLR Camera For Beginners
        
        Nikon D3500
        
        SEE PRICE
        Amazon.de
        
        Unavailable
        Missing store
        Travel Photography
        6. 9
        Landscape Photography
        6.8
        Sport & Wildlife Photography
        6.2
        Vlogging
        2.9
        Studio 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 small, and lightweight, and its dead-simple control scheme and intuitive menu make it a very easy jump from your smartphone. But the main reason it's our top pick for beginners is its interactive 'Guide' shooting mode, which guides you through the basics of photography, so you can learn about different camera settings and their effects as you shoot.
        Beyond that, it also has an excellent high-resolution APS-C sensor, so image quality is top-notch. The camera's also compatible with both Nikon DX and FX lenses, giving you a wide variety to choose from as your skills grow. It has a fantastic battery life, so it can easily last multiple days of shooting. If you're just starting out and don't know your aperture from your ISO, the D3500 remains one of the best beginner DSLR cameras you can get.
        
        See our review
      2. Best Mid-Range DSLR Camera For Beginners
        
        Nikon D5600
        
        SEE PRICE
        Amazon. de
        
        Unavailable
        Missing store
        Travel Photography
        7.5
        Landscape Photography
        7.2
        Sport & Wildlife Photography
        7.0
        Vlogging
        5.9
        Studio Video
        3.5
        Action Video
        2.5
        
        Body Type
        DSLR
        Mirrorless
        No
        Sensor Size
        APS-C
        See all our test results
        
        Moving up the entry-level ladder brings you to the Nikon D5600, which uses the same excellent sensor as the Nikon D3500 and adds some quality-of-life features like a fully articulated screen and a more advanced autofocus system. That said, it doesn't have the 'Guide' mode of the D3500, so you're on your own to figure out all the different camera settings and features.
        It still has a simple control scheme and the same easy-to-use menu system, so it's still accessible to newcomers. Plus, it has the same lens mount, so you'll have access to the same lenses as you would with the D3500. It still doesn't shoot 4k video, but it's a great option for photography. Bottom line: if you don't mind losing out on the guide mode—maybe you already know a thing or two about cameras—and you're willing to stretch your budget a little bit, get the D5600.
        
        See our review
      3. Best Upper Mid-Range DSLR Camera For Beginners
        
        Canon EOS Rebel T8i
        
        SEARCH
        Amazon.de
        
        Unavailable
        Missing store
        Travel Photography
        7. 5
        Landscape Photography
        7.4
        Sport & Wildlife Photography
        7.1
        Vlogging
        7.1
        Studio Video
        6.9
        Action Video
        2.9
        
        Body Type
        DSLR
        Mirrorless
        No
        Sensor Size
        APS-C
        See all our test results
        
        At the higher end of entry-level cameras, there's the Canon EOS Rebel T8i. Canon has included just about everything you could want in a beginner camera here, but when you're just starting, less can be more. A total beginner likely won't get the most out of this camera when they're just starting, but it's a great camera to grow into as a newbie photographer. It's also compatible with any of Canon's EF and EF-S lenses, so you can easily upgrade lenses as your skill grows.
        Unlike the Nikons above, the T8i can record 4k video. It has a fully articulated touchscreen like the Nikon D5600, but you also get more buttons and control dials. However, there's no 'Guide' shooting mode like the Nikon D3500, so the controls might be more intimidating to navigate if you're just getting started. Still, this camera has the most advanced autofocus system of any camera on this list (although it still pales compared to mirrorless alternatives) and a solid burst rate, making it a competitive choice for sports or faster subjects.
        
        See our review
      4. Best Portable DSLR Camera For Beginners
        
        Canon EOS Rebel SL3
        
        SEE PRICE
        Amazon. de
        
        Unavailable
        Missing store
        Travel Photography
        7.0
        Landscape Photography
        7.3
        Sport & Wildlife Photography
        6.6
        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
        
        While DSLRs aren't exactly known for their portability, especially with mirrorless cameras on the block, you can still get some pretty portable DSLRs with plenty of features. The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 is part of Canon's entry-level SL series, which is designed to be as compact as possible. While it's about the same size as the Nikon D3500 mentioned above, the Rebel SL3 gives you more features but doesn't have a dedicated 'Guide' mode.
        It does have a fully articulated screen, a fairly intuitive control scheme and menu, and can even record 4k video. And while its AF system isn't the most advanced, it still does an okay job tracking moving subjects. It also uses the same sensor as the Canon EOS Rebel T8i, so you'll get great image quality. Ultimately, it's a great choice if you want something portable with a little more oomph than the D3500. The D3500 is still the beginner king for those who want a camera that also acts as a hands-on learning tool.
        
        See our review
      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
      1. Nov 15, 2022: Minor tweaks to text for clarity.
      2. Sep 16, 2022: Overhauled article to better reflect user needs and market conditions.
      3. Jan 31, 2022: Changed the Nikon D3500 from an 'Easier-To-Use Alternative' to the 'Easiest-To-Use DSLR For Beginners'.
      4. Dec 02, 2021: Checked that picks were still accurate and available; no change to recommendations.
      5. Oct 05, 2021: Renamed 'Cheaper Alternative' category pick to 'Easier-To-Use Alternative' category pick to maintain consistency with other recommendation articles.
      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.
      Discussions
      Top 7 | best inexpensive SLR cameras
      
      from
      
      Home • Ranking, Electronics • 7 Best Inexpensive DSLRs of 2022
      
      The best budget DSLR deals on the market don't have to be some cheap basic models! Some cameras were originally produced for the budget segment, and some simply fell in price over time. When a model has been on sale for several years, the price of it starts to drop, and those models that you were previously not ready to buy because of the high price can suddenly be affordable!
      - Top 8 Canon cameras of 2022
      - 8 Best Beginner Cameras of 2022
      - 19 Best Professional Cameras of 2022
      The best DSLR deals aren't just for beginners, there are a couple of deals here for experts and enthusiasts. So it's not just about buying the best model in the budget category. You can also save on advanced cameras.
      
      The point is that even cameras that are a few years old still offer fairly advanced features and more than match many recently released entry-level models. While technology seems to be advancing at a breakneck pace, it is mostly in the top end of the market. Some of 9The 0021 best DSLRs of 2022 The are now very affordable as they were released some time ago and by then had fallen in price.
      - 1. Nikon D3500 - the cheapest SLR camera Nikon
      - 2. Canon EOS 2000D - inexpensive Canon SLR for beginners
      - 3. Nikon D5600 - a good budget SLR camera Nikon
      - 4. Canon EOS 250D - the best SLR for beginners
      - 5. Canon EOS 800D - cheap video SLR camera
      - 6. Canon EOS 6D Mark II - excellent full-frame SLR camera
      - 7. Nikon D750 - an inexpensive SLR camera for a beginner photographer
      Nikon D3500
      
      This entry-level model in the Nikon SLR lineup is very similar to the outgoing Nikon D3400 . However, the manufacturer still made some small changes to the design, which made it possible to create a camera that is small and light, but comfortable to grip. This is the entry-level model, which is equipped with a 24.2-megapixel sensor, which is not inferior to models with a price tag twice as much. It delivers a very good continuous shooting speed of 5 frames per second (for a beginner camera). There is a guide mode to help beginners get started and understand the basic principles. The D3500 is also equipped with the manual controls you need to learn photography as you improve your skills. The most basic lens model without the VR kit sells for a very attractive price, but we would recommend paying a little more for the VR version of the standard 18-55mm zoom lens.
      
      image stabilization
      
      excellent image quality
      
      non-rotating rear screen
      - 49,950₽
      Canon EOS 2000D
      
      The Canon EOS 2000D is a good camera for beginners, but it's pretty basic. It has a fixed rear screen and only shoots Full HD video, and it doesn't have Canon's Dual Pixel CMOS AF, which allows for faster real-time focusing. The model boasts a 24-megapixel sensor that matches the resolution of our favorite affordable Nikon D3500 DSLR. However, this unit falls short of Nikon's 5fps continuous shooting capabilities or Nikon's compact retractable kit lens.
      
      easy to use
      
      long working time
      
      cost
      
      no 4K video
      - 42 300₽
      Nikon D5600
      
      The D5600 is more expensive than the other DSLRs on this list, but it's a very good camera that once sold for a much higher price. The 39-point AF system delivers more focus points than other budget DSLRs, and the 3.2-inch vari-angle touch display on the rear is larger than most competitors. Real-time autofocus isn't quite as efficient as on the Canon EOS 250D or any of the compact system cameras here (especially for video), but overall performance is still excellent, and there's plenty of lenses to suit it. For video, we probably wouldn't recommend it, but if you're looking for a versatile, high-quality compact SLR, this is a really good buy. We think it's just the perfect travel solution.
      
      works well at high ISOs
      
      confusing menu
      - 78,000₽
      Canon EOS 250D
      
      It's not the cheapest DSLR you can buy on the market right now, but it's often worth paying just a little more to get a much better feature set. And this is the perfect example of that. The EOS 250D is equipped with Canon's top-notch 24.1 MP APS-C sensor that boasts superb real-time shooting thanks to a fully customizable touch display and fast Canon Dual Pixel CMOS AF. This model from Canon also shoots 4K video, has Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, and it's all tucked into the smallest DSLR body you've ever seen. It's not the cheapest DSLR, but we think that if you take into account all its features, you will realize that it really offers the best value for money.
      
      fast focus
      
      easy to use
      
      few AF points
      - 77,065₽
      Canon EOS 800D
      
      Canon has always been great at making entry-level feature-packed SLRs, and the EOS 800D is another proof of that. Also known as the EOS Rebel T7i, the EOS 800D is equipped with a 24.2 megapixel APS-C sensor paired with Canon's latest DIGIC 7 processor. The AF system features 45 cross-type AF points as well as Dual Pixel CMOS AF for real-life viewing. time and video. However, if you're planning on shooting 4K video, the Rebel SL3 / EOS 250D is a better choice. Other features include built-in Wi-Fi, NFC and Bluetooth that allow you to pair the camera with a smart device and quickly transfer images, while the 3" LCD touch screen can be rotated to various angles (ideal for selfies and vloggers) . Like many entry-level cameras, the EOS 800D is poorly weatherproofed. But the strong point is the battery - it will last for 600 shots from a single charge, that is, in fact, it will be enough for a whole day of work.
      
      1920×1080 video up to 60 fps
      
      45 AF points
      
      noisy at ISO above 3200
      - 78,900₽
      Canon EOS 6D Mark II
      
      Canon's original EOS 6D was a hit for a number of good reasons, and its successor, the EOS 6D Mark II , is just as good. So, the model boasts a 26.2 MP full-frame sensor with Canon's smart dual-pixel CMOS autofocus system. A 45-point AF system replaces the EOS 6D's aging 11-point AF system, while a flip-out touchscreen, 6.5fps burst mode, and improved video performance round out the model's highlights. Autofocus is fast, both in normal and live mode. DSLRs often struggle in this area, so Canon deserves some credit for addressing this issue.
      
      fast autofocus
      
      control
      
      no 4K video
      - 129 900₽
      Nikon D750
      
      The Nikon D750 was launched as the company's second cheapest full-frame DSLR, and Nikon's first full-frame tilt screen. Over time, the high image quality, solid construction, high performance and steadily decreasing price have made this model even more attractive. It's not as technically advanced as the new Nikon D780, but if you can do without 4K video and fast real-time autofocus, then the D750 is just the perfect buy for you.
      
      rotary screen
      
      price
      
      no exposure 1/8000
      - 141 990₽
      - 7 best compact cameras of 2022
      - 7 Best Full Frame Cameras of 2022
      - 7 Best Travel Cameras of 2022
      Best budget DSLR in 2021
      
      Pros :
      - Very light - 415 grams.
      - Complements Nikon's wide range of F-mount lenses.
      - Offers one of the best value for money for a beginner.
      - Designed for beginners.
      Cons:
      - Does not offer IBIS.
      - Comes with a fixed rear screen only and does not offer 4K video capabilities.
      Final take:
      
      Besides being one of the cheapest DSLRs on the market, there are many reasons why the D3500 deserves to be shown again and again. With its price and ease of use, this camera is perfect for a very specific demographic: beginners, according to Summers.
      
      According to Summers, the D3500 boasts a great "Guide Mode" on the dial, which could be perfect for those new to this type of camera.
      
      “Not only does it give you a virtual guide to the camera's functions, but it also lets you customize it to suit your needs. That being said, you have the choice between basic help or a tutorial on more advanced camera features,” she said.
      
      However, that's not the only thing the D3500 can be proud of. Despite being labeled as a “beginner camera”, it comes with just the right set of features to capture quality photos and videos. It can even take over 1,500 shots, allowing it to work all day long.
      
      “The D3500 will provide you with a 24.2MP APS-C sensor that is very reliable for crisp images with rich tones,” added Summers. “Also, its burst speed is still great at 5fps considering it's an entry-level camera that's reasonably priced. So, with this bad boy, you have the most affordable and most beginner-friendly DSLR.”
      
      However, as expected, it does not come with IBIS, but is compatible with a wide range of Nikon F-mount lenses. On the other hand, its viewfinder has 11 AF points (1 cross-type), which are somehow located in the middle frame parts. However, for beginners, focusing is positive, effective, and fast enough.
      
      In addition, Live View focus points do not fail. You can move the dots with the buttons on the camera, and while it's a tedious task compared to the convenience of touch focusing, it still does the job better than we expected. After all, it only uses contrast-detect autofocus, and it's incredibly cheap, so it's a really shocking thing.
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