It seems like cameras are becoming more and more popular by the day. Whether you’re simply seeking to capture special moments in your daily life or choosing a career path as a photographer, it is important that you have the best equipment you can afford.
Today we are going to provide you a list of the best entry-level DSLR cameras for beginners. This list is comprised of a variety of brands including Panasonic, Canon, and Sony. We believe that with the following DSLR cameras you’ll be able to start your journey of being a photographer or enthusiast with little struggles.
What to look for in an entry-level DSLR?
Before we get started I wanted to explain this list a bit. The cameras in this guide are by no means the cheapest cameras available. But they do provide the best bang for your buck with regards to features vs cost.
First up on our list is one of the newest, the Canon EOS M50. Canon’s newest entry into mirrorless cameras has some great features, and a great price to match.
Canon EOS M50 w/ EF-M15-45mm Lens
When it comes to starting your photographer journey, you will be in awe of all the options that you have available to you. We recommend that you definitely stay within your budget for your first DSLR camera. A great option is the Canon EOS M50 ($899). Technically it’s a mirrorless digital camera but it has all the features a much larger DSLR.
The M50 features an APS-C 24.1 megapixels sensor, a respectable ISO range of 100-51200, which is perfect for overexposed or dim lit environments, the ability to shoot 4k video (2160p @ 23 fps), and continuous shooting of 7.4 fps. What’s also great is that for $899 you get an EF-M15-45mm Lens.
Specifications
Megapixels: 24.1
Sensor Size: Canon CMOS Sensor
AF Points: 143 pts
ISO: 100-51200
In Body Stabilization: No
Video Resolution:
Continuous Shooting: 7.4 fps
Price: $899
Canon EOS 80D
One thing that many entry-level photographers believe is that price dictates performance. That is far from the truth. The Canon EOS 80D ($1199) is a great all-around camera for starting out. The dual-pixel autofocus is probably the best in the game, and a must if you’ll be vlogging and the rest of the specs aren’t too shabby. It has a 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor, 45 autofocus points, and an ISO range of 100-25600. You’ll also be able to produce stunning photos before SOOC (straight out of camera) and during editing.
The EOS 80D is known for being an entry-level DSLR that professional photographers used before upgrading to intermediate and professional-grade DSLRs. Once you get a great understanding of the type of photos or video you’ll shoot, you can move up to the 80D’s big brother, the Canon 6D Mark II ($1199) which is the full frame version of the 80D.
Specifications
Megapixels: 24.2
Sensor Size: APS-C (22.5mm x 15.0mm)
AF Points: 45 pts
ISO: 100-25600
In Body Stabilization: No
Video Resolution: 1080p @ 60fps
Continuous Shooting: 7fps
Price: $1199
Panasonic G7
The first Panasonic brand DSLR that we have for you to choose from is the Panasonic G7 ($660). This DSLR has received positive reviews from users and we agree with them. With 16 megapixels, an ISO range of 100-25600, integrated wi-fi and the capability of shooting videos in 2160p quality. This is definitely a great entry level DSLR that is worth being on this list. This G7 comes with a 14-42 mm kit lens to get you started. Now if you want to move up a bit to in-body image stabilization then you’ll want to check the next camera on our list the Panasonic G85.
Specifications
Megapixels: 16.0
Sensor Size: Live MFT Sensor (17.3mm x 13.0mm)
AF Points: 49 pts
ISO: 200-25600
In Body Stabilization: No
Video Resolution: 2160p @ 30 fps
Continuous Shooting: 7 fps
Price: $660
Panasonic G85
The Panasonic G85 ($898) can be described as a newer version of the G7. It comes with many of the same features as the G7 including a 16-megapixel micro four-thirds sensor, 49 focus pts, and an iso range of 200-25600. But it also comes with some additional features which may be worth the upgrade. These include 5-axis in-body image stabilization. Which means you will be able to hand shoot with longer shutter times that would cause a lot of blurriness on cameras without it. The body is also dust and splash resistant so it takes away some of the worry concerning water damage. The G85 has a new mechanical shutter that is much quieter than the G7. The G85 also has a number of other features including higher continuous shooting speeds, focus stacking, and an optional battery grip that’ll let you house two batteries for additional shooting time. Overall the G85 has additional bells and whistles but you’ll need to decide if is worth the extra money.
Specifications
Megapixels: 16.84
Sensor Size: Live MOS Sensor
AF Points: 49 pts
ISO: 200-25600
In Body Stabilization: Yes
Video Resolution: 2160p @ 30 fps
Continuous Shooting:
Price: $898
Sony A6300
The last entry-level DSLR on our list is really a mirrorless, but it needed to be included. The Sony A6300 ($898) probably hits the second slot on this list for the best bang for your buck. It has all the features you look for in an interchangeable lens camera. The A6300 features a 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor, 425 pt autofocus, excellent low light handling capabilities with an ISO range of 100-51200, and 4k video shooting capabilities. This camera also shoots crazy slow-mo with the ability to shoot HD video at 120 fps. This camera basically has it all compact size, great features, and a wide range of lenses. If it had a longer battery life it would probably take the top slot.
Specifications
