Take your photography level to the next to undergo without spending a considerable price. As a professional photographer, you can click excellent images and record full HD video with the best DSLR camera under $500.
You are making a huge mistake if you think only expensive cameras can click good pictures. However, getting your hands on a high-quality, affordable camera without spending a fortune is possible. If you buy a camera online, you will get some of the best deals on cheap yet high-quality cameras. You may be someone who could not purchase a particular camera model a few years ago due to money constraints. However, now you can buy the best cameras with excellent features without spending a significant amount.
You will not just get entry-level DSLRs but advanced compact cameras or the best mirrorless camera under $500. However, these are perfect for beginners. We assure you that all the cameras mentioned in our list are exceptional products in their category. Let’s find out the perfect camera for you.
This Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera comes with a complete kit along with a 1-year warranty. The camera is perfect for mobile device users who are willing to take their photography game to the next level. The camera is effortless to use and comes with unique features when these two characteristics are combined. You will surely get fantastic quality images; in other words, this is the best nature photography camera.
You will find some valuable equipment along with the camera, such as three pieces filter kit, a 50-inch camera tripod, an extra battery pack, AC/DC Car, and a home charger. However, along with all these, you will get a few more pieces of equipment. The camera weight is 8.2 pounds, which is also suitable for a DSLR camera. This camera completely fits in your canon camera bag; also, you can carry two extra lenses with the camera.
If you are looking for a high-quality affordable camera that records 4K video, this is not the camera for you. Also, the camera’s LCD screen is stationary, and you cannot move around the LCD screen, which makes recording yourself difficult. Even if you are shooting continuously for a long time, you might start facing issues with the camera. Some users reported slow continuous shooting.
However, if you are looking for the best video camera that meets your daily recording needs such as content creation, and YouTube video, this is perfect for you.
| Specifications of Canon EOS Rebel T7 | |
|---|---|
| Type | DSLR |
| Megapixels | 24.1 MP |
| Sensor Type | 22.3 x 14.9 mm CMOS |
| Lens Mount | Canon EF mount |
| Screen | 3 Inch (920,000 dots) |
| ViewFinder | Optical (Pentamirror) |
| Max Burst Speed | 3 fps |
| Max video resolution | 1920 x 1080p |
| Dimensions | 129 x 101.3 x 77.6 mm |
| Weight | 427 g (Body Only) |
With this camera, you can surely impress anyone. Nikon D5600 is capable of capturing fantastic quality images and videos; setting the camera is very easy and immediately starts with taking rate photos and videos without the learning curve.
Unlike other cameras available in the market, this one comes with an everlasting battery, which allows you to take more than 970 shots per charge. With Nikon D5600, you will be able to click photos throughout the day. It comes with a versatile lens kit that allows you to click amazing quality images and videos in any condition.
Using SnapBridge, you will be able to transfer images instantly with compatible phones or smartphones. Once you can work with the camera, you can start exploring all its manual settings and making changes according to your liking.
| Specifications of Nikon D5600 | |
|---|---|
| Type | DSLR |
| Megapixels | 24.2 MP |
| Sensor Type | 23.5 x 15.6 mm CMOS |
| Lens Mount | Nikon F bayonet mount |
| Screen | 3.2 Inch (1,037,000 dots) |
| ViewFinder | Optical (Pentamirror) |
| Max Burst Speed | 5 fps |
| Max video resolution | 1920 x 1080p |
| Dimensions | 124 x 97 x 70 mm |
| Weight | 415 g (Body Only) |
The a5100 is one of the best-selling mirrorless cameras by Sony. This particular camera comes with ultra-fast autofocus along with 179 AF points. The camera also arises with an interchangeable lens, which makes it outfit the new camera very easily.
One of the best features of the camera that we liked is its 3” flip LCD screen, which displays full HD video and photos in real-time along with the options like share, edit, and upload via Wi-Fi.
The camera comes with a 16-50mm lens, 3MP, Wi-Fi, and ultra-fast autofocus, helping to click better pictures. The device can record full HD 1080/24/60p videos and is also compatible with Windows and Mac OS. The camera comes with a rechargeable battery, one of the best parts of purchasing this camera.
Sony a5100 is exceptionally compact and hence can be carried around everywhere. One of the most significant advantages of purchasing this product is its excellent quality of low-light images. While testing this particular camera, we clicked a few pictures in some of the darkest places, and they turned out amazing.
According to the company, this Sony a5100 can perform all functions just like an expensive DSLR camera. However, the size and weight of the camera are less than half.
| Specifications of Sony Alpha5100 | |
|---|---|
| Type | Mirrorless Camera |
| Megapixels | 24.3 MP |
| Sensor Type | (23.5 x 15.6 mm) APS-C type Exmor® CMOS sensor |
| Lens Mount | Sony E -mount lenses |
| Screen | 3 Inch (921,600 dots) wide type TFT LCD |
| ViewFinder | None |
| Max Burst Speed | 6 fps |
| Max video resolution | 1920 x 1080p |
| Dimensions | 109.6 x 62.8 x 35.7 mm |
| Weight | 283 g |
Picking the perfect camera depends on what you need. You must check the best digital camera for everyday life with great features.
If you are looking for the best DSLR camera under $500 that is capable of clicking 4k video and images, PANASONIC Lumix FZ300 is perfect for you. This is ideal for beginners and comes with 30 frames per second feature, which makes clicking multiple images at a stretch very easy and quick. The camera is capable of clicking high-quality photos, and all images clicked using this particular model are crisp and free from artifacts associated with small aperture settings.
The design is extremely rugged. It is splash-proof and dust-proof at the same time. You will notice that the camera has very tight seals on each joint, buttons, and dials to perform well in every weather condition. The device comes with a 5 Axis Hybrid Optical image stabilizer. It helps reduce blur that might occur if you are shooting a one-handed video by compensating for five types of movements. While testing the features of this camera, we liked the long zoom feature a lot. Lumix FZ300 ensured that the object that you want to be in the frame is detailed at the same time.
| Specifications of PANASONIC Lumix FZ300 | |
|---|---|
| Type | DSLR |
| Megapixels | 12 MP |
| Sensor Type | 1/2.3 Inch MOS |
| Lens Mount | 24x zoom (25-600 mm eq.) f/2.8-8 |
| Screen | 3 Inch (1,040,000 dots) |
| ViewFinder | Electronic |
| Max Burst Speed | 12 fps |
| Max video resolution | 3840 x 2160p |
| Dimensions | 131.6 x 91.5 x 117.1 mm |
| Weight | 691 g |
Nikon D5300 is an advanced DSLR camera made for complete beginners. It is also Nikon’s very first SLR camera that comes with a wireless LAN function. The brand claims that D5300 offers significantly enhanced optical technologies along with optimized EXPEED 4 image processing.
As per Nikon, it is one of the best cameras under $500 with lightweight among all Nikon cameras under this price range, and it is also very durable. Since the brand is Nikon, the image quality of the images has too high and detailed.
With this camera, you can click from any angle, and you can hold the camera down low angle to get a good image of your pet. With this camera, you can click the best selfies and upload them instantly online using the Wi-Fi feature. Another great thing about this camera is that you can focus on the object you want.
The zoom feature of the device is stunning. This particular model comes with additional features like Wi-Fi, HD video capture, and a low pass filter, which were missing in the previous model. However, this Nikon camera comes without a touchscreen LCD screen. Having a touchscreen LCD makes recording videos very easy and quick at the same time.
| Specifications of Nikon D5300 | |
|---|---|
| Type | DSLR |
| Megapixels | 24.2 MP |
| Sensor Type | 23.5 x 15.6 mm CMOS |
| Lens Mount | Nikon F bayonet mount |
| Screen | 3.2 Inch (1,037,000 dots) |
| ViewFinder | Optical (Pentamirror) |
| Max Burst Speed | 5 fps |
| Max video resolution | 1920 x 1080p |
| Dimensions | 124 x 98 x 76 mm |
| Weight | 480 g (Body Only) |
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7 comes with versatile features and is a true hybrid mirrorless camera perfect for 4k UHD video recording. The revolving 16 MP Live MOS Micro Four Thirds sensor and Venus Engine 9 image processor and low-light feature ensure that you can click good quality images. The camera body is dust and splash-proof, which means that it is weather-sealed, and you can use it almost everywhere. Also, the camera comes with the G85 sensor, which is the successor of the G7. This particular camera model comes with customizable buttons and a twin control body, making the camera easy for beginners.
However, even if the camera is exceptionally cheap, this is the best mirrorless camera for video within your budget range. Hence if you face any issues with the camera during the first few days of using it, all expenses will be yours. The fast burst shooting mode is useful and comes with an autofocus system that quickly focuses on essential objects in your picture. The design of the camera is incredibly stylish and has a contemporary feel. The built-in Wi-Fi feature helps to share images very quickly amongst compatible devices.
| Specifications of Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7 | |
|---|---|
| Type | Mirrorless |
| Megapixels | 16 MP |
| Sensor Type | 17.3 x 13 mm CMOS |
| Lens Mount | Micro Four Thirds Mount |
| Screen | 3 Inch (1,040,000 dots) |
| ViewFinder | Electronic |
| Max Burst Speed | 7 fps |
| Max video resolution | 3840 x 2160p |
| Dimensions | 124.9 x 86.2 x 77.4 mm |
| Weight | 360 g (Body Only) |
This Canon EOS Rebel SL2 camera model by Canon is exceptionally lightweight and easy to use as well. With this camera, you will be able to capture stunning photos and videos. It is one of the smallest SLR cameras that the company has ever manufactured but comes with an autofocus system.
The LCD swing that comes with the camera is sensitive and gives a clear view of what is in the frame. One of the best advantages of choosing this camera is its fully articulated LCD screen. Also, the brand improved autofocus in Live View and also added up to 5 fps continuous shooting. All these features make this camera a great budget camera.
While testing the camera, we could mount it very quickly on our tripod, and the camera comes with a standard tripod socket. You will also get a mini HDMI and a mini USB port, which makes connecting any device with the camera extremely easy. While using the camera, you will notice that there is an external microphone port and wired remote control on the left side of the body. We loved this camera more than any other camera mentioned on the list since it is incredibly compact but comes with some of the most useful features that any good photographer needs, as this is one of the best cameras under $500.
| Specifications of Canon EOS Rebel SL2 | |
|---|---|
| Type | DSLR |
| Megapixels | 24.2 MP |
| Sensor Type | 22.3 x 14.9 mm CMOS |
| Lens Mount | Canon EF mount |
| Screen | 3 Inch (1,040,000 dots) |
| ViewFinder | Optical (Pentamirror) |
| Max Burst Speed | 5 fps |
| Max video resolution | 1920 x 1080p |
| Dimensions | 122.4 x 92.6 x 69.8 mm |
| Weight | 406 g (Body Only) |
Olympus is a top-rated camera company that announced its return to an old form factor. The company introduced interchangeable-lens digital cameras. This particular camera comes with a 12.3-megapixel sensor that is perfect for capturing fantastic quality videos and pictures. The camera comes with face detection, Art filters, and a SuperSonic Wave filter for reducing dust and multiple exposures.
However, along with these features, the company also offered a few new features, including HD cameras, 324-area matrix, and in-camera music and still. The camera is silver in color, and the black lens of the camera makes it extremely classy. The maximum shutter speed is 1/4000 Seconds, which is one feature we liked in this camera.
You can get two new lenses along with the camera, the 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 and the 17mm f/2.8, with an optical viewfinder, which is small. In addition, You will have a small flash along with Olympus E-P1. This camera has a stainless steel body, and the company offers this camera in silver and black or white and tan color variants. The camera does not come with a memory card. Hence you need to purchase one to use the camera.
| Specifications of Olympus PEN E-P1 | |
|---|---|
| Type | Mirrorless |
| Megapixels | 12 MP |
| Sensor Type | 17.3 x 13 mm CMOS |
| Lens Mount | Micro Four Thirds Mount |
| Screen | 3 Inch (230,000 dots) |
| ViewFinder | Digital |
| Max Burst Speed | 3 fps |
| Max video resolution | 1280 x 720p |
| Dimensions | 120.6 x 69.9 x 36.4 mm |
| Weight | 335 g |
9. Nikon D3300 [Best Entry-Level DSLR Camera]
Average Customer Rating
Since we are talking about the best DSLR camera under $500, we have to mention this Nikon model, which is Nikon D3300. Like Sony, Nikon is another excellent company that produces budget-friendly DSLRs and SLRs. The brand is known for manufacturing high-quality affordable cameras with helpful features.
The camera has a 24.2 MP CMOS DX format, which ensures that your clicked images are crystal clear. The camera comes with a user guide, which makes using the camera extremely easy.
One of the best features of this particular camera is capturing 5 frames within a second. You can expand the memory of the camera. If you are looking for a camera that captures excellent HD images, this is perfect for you. The camera allows you to shoot in low light with high ISO sensitivity, high resolution, and a panorama feature. You can also connect this camera to your smartphone or tablet, and this is one feature that we loved about this particular model. However, the downside of picking this camera is that the LCD screen is not touch-sensitive.
| Specifications of Nikon D3300 | |
|---|---|
| Type | DSLR |
| Megapixels | 24.3 MP |
| Sensor Type | 23.5 x 15.6 mm CMOS |
| Lens Mount | Nikon F bayonet mount |
| Screen | 3 Inch (921,600 dots) |
| ViewFinder | Optical (Pentamirror) |
| Max Burst Speed | 5 fps |
| Max video resolution | 1920 x 1080p |
| Dimensions | 124 x 98 x 76 mm |
| Weight | 430 g |
10. Panasonic Lumix G7KS
Average Customer Rating
The Lumix G7KS by Panasonic comes with 16 Megapixels, and the lens of the camera is 14-42 mm, which is perfect for a camera in this price range. The camera offers superb quality images without being bulky and heavy, like traditional DSLR cameras that are available in the market. With this camera, you will be able to click perfect, clear, and sharp images. The device is capable of capturing 4K photos. This camera is perfect for both 4K and HD video recorders. This particular model is relatively compact and reasonably priced at the same time.
The device has some of the best features that a photographer will be looking for in any camera that he or she purchases. Panasonic Lumix G7KS comes with Focus mode AFS (Single) / AFF (Flexible) / AFC ( continuous) / AF mode, and these are a few features that a camera must have to capture good quality images. We liked the eye detection and tracking features of the camera. You will also get the Wi-Fi feature along with the camera, which makes sharing images and videos extremely easy. The device is extremely easy to control compared to traditional DSLR cameras. Panasonic Lumix G7KS comes with a control aperture and shutter settings with the front and rear dials.
| Specifications of Panasonic Lumix G7KS | |
|---|---|
| Type | SLR Mirrorless |
| Megapixels | 16 MP |
| Sensor Type | 4/3 (17.3 x 13 mm) CMOS |
| Lens Mount | Micro Four Thirds Mount |
| Screen | 3 inch (1,040,000 dots) |
| ViewFinder | Electronic |
| Max Burst Speed | 7 fps |
| Max video resolution | 3840 x 2160p |
| Dimensions | 125 x 86 x 77 mm |
| Weight | 410 g |
Final Thought
Since choosing the best DSLR camera under $500 can be a bit intimidating, we hope our list made your decision easier. In this list, you will find compact cameras as well as cameras with great features. These are some of the best cameras that we have come across and tested. These cameras are extremely easy to use, and few are lightweight at the same time. Some of these are currently best-selling in the market as well. So which camera are you planning to purchase?
You Must Read:
Michael Rivera
I am a senior editor of this website - Camera Suggest. I along with my team of camera professionals help people in buying the best camera within their budget.
Hello camerasuggest,
I’m a vlogger. So I think This is really so helpful article for all kind of vloggers.
Thanks for share your experience.
Glad you like it.
Thank you so much. 🙂
Hi Michael, I bought the Sony A5100. As a Youtuber i wanted to get into the vlogging. Also, it takes awesome pictures for my Instagram and Facebook without carrying my bulky DSLR. I am convinced to buy this camera after this page. You have collected a very good list of best cameras within $500. A5100 is worth the money!!