We've tested various cameras, from traditional DSLRs to cutting-edge mirrorless cameras. Here are some of the best budget options.
While smartphone cameras are getting increasingly impressive—look at what the recently released iPhone 15 Pro is capable of!—they still can't beat the optics and image quality you can get from a dedicated photo or video camera. But if you know anything about cameras, you know that they can be very expensive, and that's not even mentioning the added cost of buying additional lenses. You can save money by buying used, but buying second-hand is always risky.
Thankfully, there are still some relatively affordable models on the market that can capture excellent images and, most importantly, get you out there shooting. We've tested a hundred different cameras, and these are the best budget options we recommend for most consumers.
Canon EOS R50: The best all-around budget camera
The Canon EOS R50 is one of the best bang-for-your-buck budget cameras on the market. This mirrorless model has a portable, lightweight body that'll make you want to bring it wherever you go. Unlike a traditional DSLR, the electronic viewfinder lets you preview your exposure in real time. On top of that, it's one of the more intuitive starter cameras, with a simple user interface and auto modes that make it easy to get the kind of photos you want, even if you've only used a smartphone before. Add a quick and accurate autofocus system and surprisingly advanced video features for the price, and you've got a highly versatile camera that won't break the bank.
Canon EOS R100: A cheap mirrorless option that'll get you started
The Canon EOS R100 is the cheaper sibling of the Canon EOS R50, and though it doesn't have as many features, it's a simpler and more affordable option for anyone on a tighter budget. While that does mean sacrifices like a fixed screen with no touch capability and more limited video features, the camera borrows its sensor from the Canon Rebel SL3 (more on that below) and captures great image quality. Its pared-down design makes it easy for beginners to pick up the camera and start shooting, with plenty of intelligent auto modes and an intuitive user interface. Like the R50, it's also part of Canon's mirrorless RF lens mount system, so you can easily upgrade to a more advanced body.
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV: Best for travel and portability
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a great budget camera if portability is your top priority. Like the Canon EOS R50, it's a mirrorless model, so it's smaller and more lightweight than a traditional DSLR. However, it uses a smaller Micro Four Thirds sensor, which means more compact lenses, making for a highly portable kit. Despite its small size, the camera also features nice ergonomics and built-in sensor stabilization to help you get clear shots when shooting handheld. Though its autofocus could be more reliable, this camera is a great travel choice thanks to its compact size.
Sony ZV-E10: Best for aspiring YouTubers
The Sony ZV-E10 is a budget camera catered toward vloggers and content creators. It doesn't have a viewfinder, but its flip-out screen is ideal for vlogging, letting you monitor yourself while you record. With 4k capture at up to 30 fps and a dedicated Slow & Quick mode for slow-motion or time-lapse recording in Full HD, it's well-suited to different video styles. The camera also has an excellent autofocus system, with specialized focus modes like 'Product Showcase' that are tailor-made for product and beauty vloggers. There's no built-in stabilization here, but using an optically stabilized lens can help give you some stability when shooting on the go.
Canon EOS Rebel SL3: A portable DSLR with affordable lens options
So far, our picks have all been mirrorless cameras, but there's still something to be said for the humble DSLR—namely, a longer-lasting battery life and an unfiltered, lag-free view of subjects through an optical viewfinder. The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 isn't just a great budget camera; it's also one of the most portable DSLRs Canon has ever produced. While it's still chunkier than mirrorless alternatives, its lightweight design and simple controls make it highly accessible to newcomers. Plus, Canon's EF-S/EF lens ecosystem has a wide range of well-loved and affordable lens options, making this a great choice to grow with as a photographer.
Canon EOS Rebel T7: A cheap, back-to-basics DSLR
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is one of the most affordable cameras you can buy. This no-frills DSLR is about as basic as interchangeable-lens cameras come. You won't find too many bells and whistles here—forget about 4k video recording or a flip-out screen. However, the camera's simplicity works in its favour for beginner photographers, allowing them to focus on getting the basics down, with the bonus of leaving more room in the budget for lenses. Plus, it's compatible with all the same EF-S/EF lenses as the Canon EOS Rebel SL3. Though it doesn't feel as well-built as pricier models, the T7 can still capture great photos and is one of the most accessible entryways into "proper" photography if you don't want to dive into the used market.
Conclusion
There's no denying that the cost of buying a camera and relevant accessories can quickly add up. With all the different types of cameras and various technology that goes into them, it can also be easy to get caught up in the details. The good news is that camera technology has advanced to such a degree that almost anybody produced within the last several years can capture excellent images. That means it's hard to go wrong, even if you're on a tighter budget. Generally speaking, the lenses you use and practice practice practice will have the biggest impact on your photography, so it's most important to find a camera that not only falls within your budget but also feels good in your hands and that you find enjoyable to shoot with.
Written by Adriana Wiszniewska, RTINGS.com
Disclaimer: The prices displayed are accurate at the time of publication. We’ll do our best to keep them as up-to-date as possible, but you may see slight changes. The products in this list are ranked by independent third parties. Rankings are based on both reviews and independent testing.