Looking to get into photography but don’t want to break the bank? You’re in luck! In this article, we have compiled a list of the top 10 best starter DSLR cameras under $500. Whether you’re an aspiring photographer or just looking for a high-quality camera to capture your memories, these DSLRs offer exceptional value for the price. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our reviews and buying guide for the best starter DSLR camera under $500.
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Last update on 2023-10-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Starter Dslr Camera Under $500: A Beginner’s Overview
Starter DSLR cameras are the perfect entry-level tools for amateur photographers looking to take their hobby to the next level. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. However, with a budget of $500 or less, there are plenty of excellent options that won’t break the bank.
A starter DSLR camera for under $500 typically comes with an APS-C sensor, which strikes a balance between image quality and affordability. These cameras also come with a range of features, including manual controls, autofocus, and in-built Wi-Fi connectivity, which makes them perfect for sharing photos online. Popular models within this price range include the Canon EOS Rebel T7, Nikon D3500, and Sony Alpha a6000, all of which deliver excellent performance at an affordable price.
Best Starter Dslr Camera Under $500 – Expert Reviews
- Canon EOS 2000D DSLRCamera Body (International Version )- 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor, DIGIC 4+ Image Processor, 3.0" 920k-Dot LCD Monitor, Full HD 1080/30p Video...
- Canon EF-S 18-55mm F/3.5-5.6 DC III Zoom Lens - EF-S-Mount Lens/APS-C Format, 28.8-88mm (35mm Equivalent) ,Aperture Range: f/3.5 to f/38 ,One Aspherical Element...
- SanDisk 64GB Ultra UHS-I SDHC Memory Card (Class 10) - 64GB Storage Capacity , Class 10 / UHS-I , Max. Read Speed: 80 MB/s , Min. Write Speed: 10 MB/s ,...
- 58MM 0.43x Professional HD Wide Angle Lens (w/Macro Portion)- Easily screws on to the front of your lens, and instantly expands the field of view for...
- Camera Gadget Bag , 50 inch Tripod, High Capacity Spare Battery, Lens Cleaning Brush Pen, Lens Cleaning dust Blower, DSLR Camera 5pc Starter Kit- Lens Cap...
- Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm Lens 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor, DIGIC 4+ Image Processor, 3.0" 920k-Dot LCD Monitor, Full HD 1080/30p Video...
- Included with the camera body is the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II lens. This lens provides a 28.8-88mm equivalent focal length range that covers wide-angle to...
- The 9-Point Phase-Detection AF system delivers quick and precise focusing in challenging lighting conditions, while the Dual Pixel CMOS AF system offers smooth...
- The 500mm f/8.0 Telephoto Lens for T-mount is an ultra-telephoto lens suitable for wildlife, sports, and general photography. It delivers sharp, high contrast...
- The Canon EOS Rebel T7, a sleek entry-level DSLR, offers a 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4+ image processor for high-res, clear images even in diverse...
- Canon EOS 4000D DSLR Camera(International Version)- 18.0MP APS-C CMOS Sensor,DIGIC 4+ Image Processor, 6.8 cm (2.7 inch) TFT LCD, approx. 230 K dots, Full HD...
- Canon EF-S 18-55mm F/3.5-5.6 DC III Zoom Lens - EF-S-Mount Lens/APS-C Format, 28.8-88mm (35mm Equivalent) ,Aperture Range: f/3.5 to f/38 ,One Aspherical Element...
- SanDisk 64GB Ultra UHS-I SDHC Memory Card (Class 10) - 64GB Storage Capacity , Class 10 / UHS-I , Max. Read Speed: 80 MB/s , Min. Write Speed: 10 MB/s ,...
- 58MM 0.43x Professional HD Wide Angle Lens (w/Macro Portion)- Easily screws on to the front of your lens, and instantly expands the field of view for...
- Camera Gadget Bag , 50 inch Tripod, High Capacity Spare Battery, Lens Cleaning Brush Pen, Lens Cleaning dust Blower, DSLR Camera 5pc Starter Kit- Lens Cap...
- Canon EOS 4000D DSLR Camera(Intertiol Version)- 18.0MP APS-C CMOS Sensor,DIGIC 4+ Image Processor, 6.8 cm (2.7 inch) TFT LCD, approx. 230 K dots, Full HD 1080p...
- Canon EF-S 18-55mm F/3.5-5.6 DC III Zoom Lens - EF-S-Mount Lens/APS-C Format, 28.8-88mm (35mm Equivalent) ,Aperture Range: f/3.5 to f/38 ,One Aspherical Element...
- SanDisk 64GB Ultra UHS-I SDHC Memory Card (Class 10) - 64GB Storage Capacity , Class 10 / UHS-I , Max. Read Speed: 80 MB/s , Min. Write Speed: 10 MB/s ,...
- 58MM 0.43x Professiol HD Wide Angle Lens (w/Macro Portion)- Easily screws on to the front of your lens, and instantly expands the field of view for breathtaking...
- Camera Gadget Bag , 50 inch Tripod, High Capacity Spare Battery, Lens Cleaning Brush Pen, Lens Cleaning dust Blower, DSLR Camera 5pc Starter Kit- Lens Cap...
- BUNDLE INCLUDES: Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm Lens, EOS Bag, Sandisk Ultra 64GB Card, Clean and Care Kit, Canon Neck Strap, Battery, Battery...
- COMPACT AND CAPABLE: The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is a sleek entry-level DSLR featuring versatile imaging capabilities and a helpful feature-set.
- ADVANCED FEATURES: Incorporating a 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4+ image processor, the T7 produces high-resolution stills with notable clarity, reduced...
- QUALITY, SPEED, ACCURACY: The sensor and processor also afford shooting continuously at up to 3 fps for photographing moving subjects, as well as Full HD...
- VERSATILE: The rear 3.0" 920k-dot LCD offers a bright, clear image for playback and review, and built-in Wi-Fi with NFC also offers the ability to wirelessly...
- Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm Lens 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor, DIGIC 4+ Image Processor, 3.0" 920k-Dot LCD Monitor, Full HD 1080/30p Video...
- Included with the camera body is the EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II lens. This lens provides a 28.8-88mm equivalent focal length range that covers wide-angle to...
- The 9-Point AF System is a precise autofocus system with 9 points and a cross-type point for accurate focusing in low-light conditions. It has a 3.0" LCD...
- The Canon EOS Rebel T7, a sleek entry-level DSLR, offers a 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor and DIGIC 4+ image processor for high-res, clear images even in diverse...
- Adjustable Torso Height - The X50 has four height options with approximately 9 cm (3.5 in) of vertical adjustment. This means the same backpack can fit short or...
- Core Unit Modular Camera Insert System - The X50 utilizes our DSLR Core Unit series. Core Units provide shockproof protection for Mirrorless and DSLR cameras...
- Dual Laptop/Tablet Sleeves - Both rear and front panel padded sleeves fit a laptop up to 16 inches in size. Having two sleeves lets you pack both a tablet and...
- Expandable Roll-Top Access - We gave the Action X series a roll-top access so the bag can be adjusted to your gear needs while maintaining a tight and compact...
- Hidden Tracking Device Sleeve - A new hidden sleeve holds a personal tracking device so you always know where your pack is. In the unfortunate scenario your...
- Ergonomic design for shock-proof & muscle fatigue relief : Finger-shaped handle stabilizer for smoothly & stablely shooting to improve the footage obvisouly &...
- Easy-mounting, plug & play : Universal 1/4 screw thread and easy mounting thumb knob locking system for all DSLR Mirrorless camera, camcorder and other...
- Light & Solid & Comfortable : Made of high-quality ABS material, skin-like coating for a comfortable holding to enjoy a better experience.
- Safety wrist strap tether avoid drop risk : Additional secure wrist strap tether for easy and safe holding to avoid dropping risk, best choice for youtuber...
- Widely use: Compatible with all DSLR Mirrorless camera， camcorder, LED video light, long focus lens, and any other equipment with 1/4" thread hole.
- ✔ COMPATIBLE WITH ALL SMARTPHONES, TABLETS, and LAPTOPS including ALL iPhone models, Samsung Galaxy and Note, Google Pixel, Huawei and more. CONTENTS INCLUDE:...
- ✔ TRUVIEW 0.45x WIDE ANGLE LENS - CAPTURE 45% MORE PICTURE WITH EVERY SNAP: Shoot stunning photos of people, pets, travel scenery, landscapes, architecture,...
- ✔ CLARUS 15x MACRO LENS - MARVEL YOUR SENSES. MAGNIFY NEARBY SUBJECTS FOR BREATHTAKING, SUPER CLOSE-UP PHOTOS: Capture all the intricacies and details with...
- ✔ GLOWCLIP RECHARGEABLE LED FILL LIGHT - The GlowClip LED light clips ANYWHERE on your phone to instantly illuminate your subject and surroundings with warm...
- ✔ QUICK-RELEASE LANYARD AND TRAVEL CASE - TRANSPORT AND PROTECT YOUR LENS KIT: Perfect for taking your Xenvo lenses with you on the fly. The travel case...
Last update on 2023-10-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Reasons for Buying Starter Dslr Camera Under $500
There are plenty of reasons why investing in a starter DSLR camera under $500 can be a great idea. Not only do these cameras offer high-quality images at an affordable price, but they’re also often more user-friendly than more advanced models, making them perfect for novice photographers. Here are just a few of the key reasons why a starter DSLR camera might be the perfect choice for you.
Affordable cost
The cost of professional DSLR cameras can be quite high, often reaching into the thousands of dollars. This can be a barrier to entry for many people who are just starting out with photography or who don’t have a lot of money to invest in equipment. By purchasing a starter DSLR camera under $500, photographers can get access to high-quality equipment without breaking the bank.
Affordable DSLR cameras are also an excellent option for beginners who are unsure whether they want to pursue photography as a serious hobby or profession. By investing in a low-cost camera, they can experiment with different techniques and styles of photography without worrying about the financial consequences of making mistakes or not enjoying the activity. Additionally, a starter DSLR camera can serve as a stepping stone to more advanced equipment once the photographer has gained more experience and confidence.
Perfect for beginners
A Starter DSLR Camera Under $500 is perfect for beginners who are just starting out in photography. It is an affordable option for those who are not yet ready to invest in more advanced and expensive cameras. With their user-friendly features, these cameras help beginners to learn the basics of photography.
Beginners can experiment with different settings while taking pictures and learn from their mistakes. The camera allows them to capture high-quality images and videos. They can also use various lenses to get different perspectives and learn more about the art of photography. Overall, a Starter DSLR Camera Under $500 offers a great starting point for beginners who want to develop their photography skills.
Suitable for learning photography basics
Photography is a fantastic art form that requires knowledge of basic photography concepts and techniques. Beginners who are just starting their journey in photography need to invest in a good camera that’s easy to use and learn. It helps if the camera is not too expensive, and they don’t want to spend too much on a camera until they learn the basics and decide to pursue photography further.
A starter DSLR camera under $500 provides the perfect opportunity for beginners to learn photography basics. These cameras have lots of features that help beginners understand the technical aspects of photography, such as aperture, shutter speed, ISO and many others. It provides manual controls that allow beginners to experiment and try different settings to see how they affect their images. Additionally, these cameras come with built-in tutorials and guides that teach users how to use the camera and take great photos. All in all, investing in a starter DSLR under $500 is a great way for beginners to kickstart their photography journey.
Compact and portable
Compactness and portability are paramount when it comes to buying a starter DSLR camera. These features make the camera easy to carry around and convenient to use, especially when you are on the move. With a compact camera, you can place it in your backpack, purse, or any other small carrying bag for easy access.
Portability also makes it possible to use the camera in a variety of settings. You can take it to the beach, mountains, park, or any other location without worrying about the bulk or weight. Additionally, a starter DSLR camera under $500 is ideal for beginners who may not be ready to invest in expensive and bulky high-end DSLRs. The compactness and portability of these cameras make them perfect for learning the basics of photography and videography.
How to Choose the Best Starter Dslr Camera Under $500?
When looking for the best starter DSLR camera under $500, there are certain factors to keep in mind. These factors can help narrow down your options and ensure that you choose a camera that best suits your needs and budget.
Image quality
Image quality is one of the most important factors to consider when buying a starter DSLR camera under $500. It determines how good your photos will look and how well they will represent the subject you are capturing. Good quality images are necessary for creating stunning and impactful shots, which can be great for personal use or if you’re starting out as a photographer.
Moreover, as a beginner, you’ll be learning the basics of photography, such as composition, lighting, and exposure. If you have a DSLR that can produce high-quality images, you’ll be able to better see the results of your efforts and learn faster. You’ll also be able to experiment with settings and techniques with greater control over your results. Therefore, it is important to find a DSLR camera with good image quality, even if you’re on a budget.
Lens compatibility
The choice of lens compatible with a beginner DSLR camera under $500 is essential because it has a significant impact on the final picture quality. The lens is the core component of the camera that captures the light and transfers it onto the sensor. It’s responsible for shaping the image quality, sharpness, clarity, colors, and overall artistic look of the picture. Therefore, choosing a compatible lens requires consideration of the camera’s lens mount, sensor size, shooting needs, and personal preferences, such as focal length, aperture, and image stabilization. By choosing the right lens, beginners can take full advantage of the camera’s capabilities and improve their photography skills.
Furthermore, investing in lenses that are compatible with future camera upgrades ensures that one will not need to purchase new lenses with each updated camera body. Lenses are a significant investment for photographers, and choosing a lens compatible with a range of camera bodies can save time and money in the long term. By researching and investing in compatible lenses when purchasing a starter DSLR camera under $500, photographers are setting themselves up for success and growth in their photography journey.
Autofocus system
Autofocus system is a crucial consideration before buying a starter DSLR camera under $500 because it determines how fast and accurate the camera can focus on the subject. A good autofocus system enables the camera to quickly and accurately focus on the subject, which is important for capturing sharp and clear images. In addition, an autofocus system with multiple focus points gives more flexibility and control over the composition of the shot.
Moreover, having a reliable autofocus system can make the photography experience more enjoyable and less frustrating for beginners. With an efficient autofocus system, beginners can focus more on learning about composition and exposure, rather than struggling with manual focusing techniques. Therefore, in order to get the best value for money and a more satisfying photography experience, one should consider the autofocus system before buying a starter DSLR camera under $500.
ISO range
ISO is one of the key settings in a camera that determines the sensitivity of the camera’s sensor to light. A higher ISO range means that the camera can capture images in low light conditions without the need for a flash or longer exposure times, which is essential for beginners learning to take pictures in different lighting conditions. When choosing a starter DSLR camera under $500, it is important to consider the camera’s ISO range, as it can significantly affect the quality of your images.
In addition to low light conditions, ISO range also plays a crucial role in image quality and noise reduction. Higher ISO range cameras tend to produce more noise in the images, which can lead to blurry and grainy photos. Therefore, when selecting a starter DSLR camera, one should choose a camera with a moderate ISO range that gives them the flexibility to shoot in different conditions while still producing sharp and clear images with minimal noise.
Shooting Speed
Shooting speed is an important factor that should be considered before buying a starter DSLR camera under $500. Shooting speed refers to the time taken by the camera to capture multiple shots in a single click. A DSLR camera with a high shooting speed ensures that you capture the exact moment you want to with precision. This is particularly important if you are interested in capturing fast-moving subjects, such as sports events, wildlife, or even children. A camera with a fast shooting speed will enable you to take multiple shots and choose the best one later.
In addition, shooting speed is also a fundamental aspect of photography that can be used to create specific effects. For example, a high-speed shooting mode will freeze the action, while a low-speed shooting mode will create motion blur. So, if you are interested in experimenting with different photography styles, it is essential to have a camera that offers a range of shooting speeds. Therefore, before buying a starter DSLR camera under $500, it is crucial to consider the shooting speed to ensure that you get a camera that meets your specific needs.
Available accessories and support
When looking to buy a starter DSLR camera under $500, it is important to consider available accessories and support. This is because DSLR cameras have interchangeable lenses, and you may need additional lenses or filters to get the most out of your camera. Without available accessories, you may not be able to take full advantage of the capabilities of your camera.
Additionally, having access to good customer support is crucial when buying any electronic device. In case of any issues, you want to be able to get the help you need quickly and easily. With a starter DSLR camera, you may also need guidance on how to use certain features or how to take better photos, and having good customer support can provide you with the assistance you need to improve your photography skills. Therefore, by considering available accessories and support, you can ensure that you get the most out of your starter DSLR camera under $500.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good options for starter DSLR cameras under $500?
For those on a budget, there are some great starter DSLR cameras available for under $500. One popular option is the Canon EOS Rebel T6, which offers 18MP resolution, built-in Wi-Fi, and a 9-point AF system. It also comes with a 18-55mm lens kit, which is perfect for beginners. Another option is the Nikon D3500, which has a 24.2MP sensor, a 5fps continuous shooting mode, and an 11-point AF system. It also comes with an 18-55mm lens kit and is known for its user-friendly interface.
Other good options for starter DSLR cameras under $500 include the Pentax K-S2, which offers 20MP resolution, built-in Wi-Fi, and weather-sealed body, and the Sony Alpha a6000, which has a 24.3MP sensor, a 11fps continuous shooting mode, and a 179-point hybrid autofocus system. Ultimately, the best camera for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs, but any of these options would be a great choice for someone looking to get into photography on a budget.
What kind of features should I be looking for in a starter DSLR camera under $500?
When looking for a starter DSLR camera under $500, there are several features to consider. Firstly, you should look at the sensor size, which determines image quality and low light performance. Ideally, you want a camera with a larger sensor size, such as APS-C or Micro Four Thirds. Secondly, consider the autofocus system, which can affect the speed and accuracy of focusing. A camera with fast and accurate autofocus can make it easier to take sharp photos.
Other features to look for include the maximum shutter speed and continuous shooting speed, as well as the availability of different shooting modes. It is also important to consider the lens mount, as this will determine what kind of lenses you can use with the camera. Some popular entry-level DSLR models to consider include the Canon EOS Rebel T7, Nikon D3500, and Sony Alpha A6000.
Are there any drawbacks to purchasing a cheaper DSLR camera for beginners?
There are definitely some drawbacks to purchasing a cheaper DSLR camera for beginners. Cheaper DSLR cameras often have lower quality components and may not have as many features as more expensive models. This can result in lower quality images, slower performance, and less flexibility in terms of settings and options. Additionally, cheaper DSLRs may not be as durable and may not last as long as more expensive models, which could result in having to replace the camera sooner than expected.
However, for beginners who are just starting out with photography, a cheaper DSLR can still be a good option. They may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, but they can still produce good quality images and provide a solid foundation for learning the basics of photography. As beginners improve their skills and become more experienced, they can always upgrade to a more advanced model later on.
Can I expect to get good quality photos from a starter DSLR camera under $500?
Yes, you can expect to get good quality photos from a starter DSLR camera under $500. Many entry-level DSLR cameras offer excellent image quality, high resolution, and advanced features like autofocus, ISO control, and built-in flash. With proper technique and composition, an affordable DSLR camera can capture high-quality images suitable for printing, online sharing, or even professional work. However, the choice of lenses, lighting, and post-processing software can also affect the final photo quality.
Verdict
To wrap up, finding the best starter DSLR camera under $500 can be a daunting task, but with the right guidance and information, you’ll be able to choose the perfect camera for your needs. We reviewed and analyzed some of the best options available in the market to help narrow down your search. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned photographer on a budget, the best starter DSLR camera under $500 is out there waiting for you to capture life’s special moments.
