DSLR cameras are probably the best choice for people wanting to get a basic start video or photography. While you can use your phone or even upgrade to a mirrorless camera, DSLRs certainly have a special place in the world of photography. Now, what is the best entry level DSLR out there?
They usually handle better and have a superior battery life to most other types of cameras. They are also the only cameras with a true viewfinder instead of just a digital display.
Technically speaking, DSLRs offer what you could call the most authentic photography experience.
Why Should I Get A DSLR?
DSLRs aren’t made in the same quantity as digital and mirrorless cameras. You don’t get new models every few months which is perfect for beginners. It means there are fewer options to confuse a potential first-time buyer.
Moreover, because you can get older models that are well-made and full of great features for a great price.
Entry-level DSLRs are different from advanced ones in one aspect. They don’t have as many features as an advanced DSLR.
However, they pack just enough to keep the user invested and experimental till they’re comfortable to advance to something a little more pro.
Camera manufacturers offer entry-level DSLRs with streamlined features just to intrigue customers and lure them in before unveiling the more advanced models which they hope will keep you loyal to their brand.
Let’s take a quick look at the current best-selling DSLR cameras:
What Should I Avoid?
One thing I’ll advise is that you avoid photography bundles. Not that they are bad. On the contrary, some of them are great. They can provide you with all the great accessories you’ll need.
However, as a novice photographer, you won’t be able to tell which bundles are good and which are just cheap scams. Just get your accessories separately, it’ll be cheaper anyways.
With all of this in mind, this guide will list a number of my favorite DSLRs that I think are perfect for novice photographers.
It’ll also include what things to look out for when buying your first DSLR. now let’s get into the guide. These are my picks for the best entry-level DSLRs.
Best Entry Level DSLR – The Cameras
Let’s jump right into with the Canon EOS 200D.
1. Canon EOS 200D
Canon is one of the biggest manufacturers of cameras in the world. They have a pretty great track record when it comes to DSLRs.
The Canon EOS 200D is no different. The camera shoots pictures at an amazing 24MP. It also records video in full HD at 1080p. So in terms of image quality, this is definitely a beast. You won’t get much better quality for an entry-level DSLR.
The camera also packs a plethora of great features. Chief among these is the built-in WI-FI connectivity. This makes transferring your images to your computer a painless process which is very important.
The Canon EOS 200D is probably the world’s lightest DSLR which is great. DSLRs tend to be bulky. This one is easy to handle and comfortable to grip.
The controls are very easy to learn and use as well. Canon has built a relationship of being beginner-friendly and this camera is no exception.
2. Nikon D5600
Nikon stands shoulder to shoulder with Canon as one of the best camera manufacturers in the world. Their Nikon D5600 which is geared towards beginners is a testament to that.
Similarly to Canon’s offering, the camera takes pictures at 24MP and films video at a reliable 1080p. So you won’t get anything but the best when it comes to quality.
What does this camera offer in terms of features? Well, Nikon cameras are famous for a feature called SnapBridge.
It uses Bluetooth to connect your smartphone to the camera. The two devices maintain connection so that whenever you take a picture it instantly appears on your phone.
It’s certainly a neat feature and could be useful to many. The camera also features a tilting LCD screen and touch screen controls.
In terms of handling, it’s not the lightest camera out there. It’s not the heaviest or bulkiest camera either.
It’s relatively comfortable to handle and grip. Especially if you have large hands or long fingers. I guess we should thank Nikon for thinking of us large-handed people.
The Nikon D5600 is priced a little higher than the last suggestion, but it’s still a very reasonable asking price.
Still, for the level of features it’s offering, the camera is definitely worth it. A solid pick for anyone’s first DSLR.
BEST ENTRY LEVEL DSLR
What Are Entry Level DSLRs?
Entry level DSLRs are a great option for people who want to get into photography or videography.
These cameras are very affordable and can be an excellent stepping stone for beginners looking to learn the basics of manual camera settings and getting used to using a larger device.
Entry level DSLRs usually have better quality than your typical point-and-shoot camera, but they don’t quite compare with more expensive professional models like those offered by Canon or Nikon.
3. Sony A68
Sony has also released some noteworthy cameras in the past. They’ve become something of a noteworthy name in the world of photography. Their Sony 168 is their response to the entry-level DSLR market competition.
How does it fair? In terms of image quality, Sony held no punches. The camera packs 24MP image quality and full HD video recording at 1080p.
Sony also added some surprising features to the 168. For one, you get image stabilization. This is wonderful since it reduces shakiness and makes for smoother footage. It also has a tilting LCD and an electronic viewfinder. Sadly, there’s no built-in WiFi.
The Sony 168 is light and small compared to its competitors. It’s also comfortable to grip and handle.
If you have a slightly above average hand size you can even use it with only one hand. It’s solidly built but be wary of one thing. It’s not weatherproof. So if you’re planning to hike with this one, think twice.
Still, it retails for a very reasonable amount and for all its features it’s worth considering. That is if you don’t mind the electronic viewfinder. Maybe try it out first before making a decision.
4. Pentax K-70
While this manufacturer may not be as instantly recognizable as Nikon or Canon, they are still responsible for making some stellar cameras.
The Pentax K-70 is a great choice if you want something a little advanced yet still easy to grasp for a fast learning beginner.
It offers the usual in terms of quality. Taking images at 24MP and Recording video at 1080p just like the other cameras on this list.
This camera packs a little more within its features though. For example, it includes a vari angle LCD screen. It also has several neat digital filter effects. You get built-in WI-FI for easier file transfer.
On top of that, the Pentax K-70 is strongly built to be weatherproof. So if you’re going into the wilderness maybe you should be carrying this one.
The camera has a lot of controls, about 19 in total. Most of them perform more than one action.
However, they are not intimidating or overwhelming. Instead, they offer the perfect amount of customization once you’re comfortable with the camera.
It also has two grips one for your hand and one for your thumb in the rear. This makes for very comfortable handling.
If you’re looking for a solidly built, feature-packed camera with a more in-depth experience this is the one for you.
BEST ENTRY LEVEL DSLR
Advantages of Entry Level DSLRs
• Entry level DSLRs are a great way to jump into photography.
• You can custom-build your camera with features and specifications that you want.
• Get an in-depth understanding of how DSLR cameras work while still picking up the basics of photography.
• Are cheaper than other brands, but offer comparable or higher quality.
5. Canon EOS 4000D
I understand that some of these cameras might seem intimidating in terms of price. That’s why I saved the last slot for the most budget-friendly camera.
This one is for those who can’t spend big money on a camera and instead want a competent and well-made beginner camera. Canon has got you covered in terms of that, my friend. The Canon EOS 4000D strikes a nice balance between price and features.
Canon EOS 4000D shoots photos at a modest 18MP and video at 1080p at 30fps instead of the 60fps you’ll find in the other cameras on the list. You do get WI-FI connectivity which is generous of Canon at this price range if we’re honest.
The controls and their placement is thankfully streamlined and easy to use. Its plastic build feels solid for the most part. The handling is comfortable unless you have “large” hands. It could be a little hard to grip the camera due to its shallow finger recess.
The price of the Canon EOS 4000D is a rather wallet saving sum, so that’s another really big positive.
For what it offers, you get great value for what you pay. A solid beginner’s choice to be sure.
Best Entry Level DSLR – In Conclusion
That brings us to the end of this guide. The market for entry-level DSLRs sure has a lot of nice features and very reasonable prices to lure you in.
Camera manufacturers are far more aware that there’s an audience who wants a camera but are intimidated by the myth of complication.
Thus, they have been marketing beginner-friendly DSLR cameras for good prices. If these selections don’t do it for you, that’s okay. There’s a lot of other great choices from these manufacturers.
Just make sure you do your research and know which cameras are geared at which audience. If you get a camera from any of these manufacturers you’ll have nothing to worry about. A camera is largely what you make out of it.
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Thanks!
No probs, Darin!