Choosing a camera can be a daunting task, especially for beginners looking for the best starting DSLR. The right gear sets the foundation for your photography journey, blending quality, usability, and price. In this article, I’ve curated a list of the top ten starting DSLRs available on Amazon, along with a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision.
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Movo VXR10-PRO External Video Microphone for Camera with Rycote Lyre Shock Mount - Compact Shotgun... | $49.95 | Buy on Amazon | |
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Movo VXR10 Universal Shotgun Mic for Camera - Camera Microphone for DSLR, iPhone and Android... | $39.95 | Buy on Amazon | |
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DSLR Photography for Beginners: A Beginner’s Guide to Learning About Your DSLR Camera, Lens,... | $6.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
| 4 |
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Neewer Video Microphone for Phone, On Camera Mic Kit with Black Pro Shock Mount Compatible with... | $18.69 | Buy on Amazon | |
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tikysky Camera Microphone, M-1 Video Microphone for DSLR Interview Shotgun Mic for Canon Nikon Sony... | $31.95 | Buy on Amazon | |
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Moukey MCM-1 Video Microphone, Camera Microphone with Shock Mount, Windshield, Professional Vlogging... | $26.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
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Canon EOS Rebel T100 (EOS 4000D) DSLR Camera w/EF-S 18-55mm F/3.5-5.6 Zoom Lens + 64GB Memory Card,... | $399.00 | Buy on Amazon | |
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Sony Alpha A100 10.2MP Digital SLR Camera (Body Only) | $124.17 | Buy on Amazon | |
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Camera Microphone,Comica CVM-VM10II Professional Video Microphone with Shock Mount, Deadcat,Compact... | $32.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
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Bestshoot Condenser Interview Microphone Photography Shotgun Mic for Video Camcorders DSLR DV... | $24.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Contents
Buying Guide for Best Starting DSLR
Before diving into specifics, it’s important to understand what to look for when buying your first DSLR. Here are a few key considerations:
1. Budget
Determine how much you’re willing to spend. Entry-level DSLRs can range from $400 to $900. Your budget will primarily guide your choices regarding features and brands.
2. Size and Weight
If you’re planning to carry your camera for hours, opt for a lightweight model that fits comfortably in your hands.
3. Image Quality
Look for a camera with a good sensor. APS-C sensors are common in starter DSLRs and offer an excellent balance between performance and size.
4. User Interface
Choose a camera with a user-friendly interface. Look for models that offer a good amount of automatic modes to ease you into manual shooting.
5. Lenses
Consider a camera that supports interchangeable lenses. This will allow you to grow your kit as you become more advanced in your photography skills.
6. Brand Reputation
Stick with reputable brands like Canon, Nikon, or Sony. They offer great customer support and a wide range of accessories.
7. Features
Look for features that enhance functionality, like in-built Wi-Fi, connectivity options, great autofocus systems, and video capability.
Now that we understand what to look for, here are the top 10 best starting DSLR cameras of 2024, all available on Amazon:
1. Canon EOS Rebel T7
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is widely regarded as one of the best starting DSLRs, especially for photography newbies. Offering an impressive 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor, it delivers stunning image clarity along with an easy-to-use interface.
The camera features built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for easy sharing, while its 9-point AF system ensures accurate focus. The DIGIC 4+ image processor provides outstanding image quality even in low light conditions.
The EOS Rebel T7 also comes equipped with a helpful ?Guide Mode?, which teaches you how to take better photos directly through the camera interface—ideal for beginners.
- 24.1 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor with is 100–6400 (H: 12800)
- Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC technology
- 9-Point AF system and AI Servo AF
- Optical Viewfinder with approx 95% viewing coverage
- Use the EOS Utility Webcam Beta Software (Mac and Windows) to turn your compatible Canon camera into a high-quality webcam. Compatible Lenses- Canon EF Lenses (including EF-S lenses, excluding EF-M lenses)
2. Nikon D3500
Next up is the Nikon D3500, a compact and lightweight DSLR that boasts a 24.2MP sensor and a wonderful guide mode for beginners. Its interface is intuitive, making it easy for first-time users to navigate.
The D3500 offers excellent battery life, allowing you to shoot up to 1550 shots on a single charge. This model uses a 5-frame-per-second burst shooting speed—ideal for capturing action shots.
Furthermore, with its SnapBridge app, you can connect your camera to your smartphone for easy sharing of your favorite photos.
- Includes all original accessories plus a 90 Day Warranty
- Nikon D3500 24.2MP DSLR Camera with AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens
- 24.2MP DX-Format CMOS Sensor No Optical Low-Pass Filter Native ISO 100-25600; 5 fps Shooting 3.0in 921k-Dot LCD Monitor
- INCLUDED IN THE BOX: D3500 Camera Body | EN-EL14a Rechargeable Li-ion Battery | MH-24 Quick Charger | AN-DC3 Strap | BF-1B Body Cap | DK-25 Rubber Eyecup | AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR LC-55A | 55mm Snap-On Front Lens Cap | Rear Lens Cap | Limited Nikon 90-Day Refurbished Warranty
3. Canon EOS 90D
For those ready to step up from entry-level DSLRs, the Canon EOS 90D could be a great option. It boasts a 32.5MP APS-C sensor, providing stunning detail.
The camera features a 45-point all cross-type autofocus system for quick focus, making it versatile for different shooting scenarios. It also shoots 4K video, which is a significant plus for those interested in videography.
The fully articulating touchscreen allows for creative angles, whether you’re shooting from above or below. It’s an ideal choice for photography and video-making.
![Canon DSLR Camera [EOS 90D] with Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, DIGIC 8 Image Processor, 4K Video, Dual Pixel CMOS AF, and 3.0 Inch Vari-Angle Touch LCD Screen, [Body Only], Black](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41JtOF3xVBL.jpg)
- High image quality with 32.5 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor
- High-speed continuous shooting of up to 10 fps with no time Lag during ovf shooting
- 4K UHD 30P/ Full HD 120P video
- 45-Point All Cross-type AF System supports up to 27 points with an F/8 metering
- Use the EOS Utility Webcam Beta Software (Mac and Windows) to turn your Canon camera into a high-quality webcam, or do the same using a clean HDMI output.
4. Nikon D5600
The Nikon D5600 packs a 24.2MP sensor along with a vari-angle touchscreen that makes it simple to shoot from unique angles. It’s designed with new photographers in mind while providing advanced features.
The camera’s SnapBridge feature also enables seamless sharing, while its 39-point autofocus system ensures accurate shots. It offers impressive features like time-lapse performance and high ISO capabilities.
- This Certified Refurbished product is manufacturer refurbished it shows limited or no wear
- Includes all original accessories plus a 90 day warranty
- Nikon D5600 24.2MP DSLR Camera 18-55mm VR & 70-300mm ED Lens
- Large, 24.2 MP DX-format CMOS sensor, Always connected to your smart device with SnapBridge, 3.2-inch Vari-angle touch LCD, Advanced 39-point Auto Focus system, Full HD 1080 at 60p video capability with built-in stereo sound
- INCLUDED IN THE BOX: D5600 Digital SLR Camera (Body Only), EN-EL14a Rechargeable Li-ion Battery, MH-24 Quick Charger, DK-25 Rubber Eyecup, AN-DC3 Strap, BF-1B Body Cap, AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Lens, AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED Lens, 90 Day Manufacturer Refurbished Warranty
5. Canon EOS Rebel SL3
The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 is often hailed as one of the most compact DSLRs on the market, featuring a 24.1MP sensor and Dual Pixel autofocus. Its compact size makes it easy to carry around while still delivering high-quality images.
It shoots in 4K and has a fully articulating touchscreen, perfect for vlogging as well as photography. Additionally, the eye detection autofocus is a significant leap forward for those wanting to ensure sharp portraits.
The Rebel SL3 also offers excellent battery life, making it a reliable choice for long days of shooting.
- Mounting type: Bayonet
- Turn your Canon camera into a high-quality webcam
- Viewfinder type: Optical
- Product type :CAMERA DIGITAL
6. Pentax K-70
If you’re seeking something different, the Pentax K-70 offers a unique blend of features that are great for beginners and advanced photographers alike. It comes with a weather-sealed body, making it an excellent option for outdoor photography.
The 24.2MP sensor and advanced image stabilization provide excellent performance in various conditions. The camera also features a varying array of shooting modes to help you learn photography techniques.
Its unique pixel-shift technology allows for highly detailed images, giving ambitious photographers more room to play with.
- The wireless remote is for select Pentax cameras and replaces Pentax E/F/WP. It’s compatible with Pentax K-70 K-30 K-5 II K-5 IIs K-3 II K-1 II K-S2 K-S1 645D 645Z K500 K-7 K-5 Q-S1 WG-20 WG-10 WG-5GPS WG-4GPS etc.
- Range extents to approximately up to 65ft. / 20m in front of the camera.
- It has access to single-shot and bulb modes for most shooting needs. Select cameras can remotely zoom in or out as well as the Fn function. Note* : The zooming and Fn function are only available for some select cameras.
- Ideal for taking selfies, group portraits, and long exposures at close to mid-range, its compact design can be kept in your bag for use whenever you need.
- The IR trigger works by simply pressing the central button. Be sure that there are no obstructions between your camera and the remote as infrared triggers needs line of sight to function.
7. Sony Alpha a68
While technically a SLT (Single-Lens Translucent), the Sony Alpha a68 is another fantastic option for beginners. Featuring a 24.2MP sensor and a unique translucent mirror system, this camera allows for continuous autofocus in video and image modes.
One of its standout features is the 79-point fast hybrid autofocus system, which locks onto subjects quickly and accurately. It’s an excellent choice for those interested in wildlife or sports photography.
The camera also supports both shooting and focusing while in continuous drive mode, making it versatile in various scenarios.
- Wide area 79-point Phase Detection “4D Focus” AF system, 24.2MP APS-C sensor for astonishing image quality with fine details, 8fps continuous shooting3 with AF to capture the decisive moment
- SteadyShot INSIDE In-body image stabilization for every A-mount lens, Full HD XAVC S movie recording 30p/24p up to 50Mbps, OLED Tru-Finder (0.39” ) with 100% frame coverage
- Large 2.7” tillable, 460K dot LCD screen, Up to ISO 25,600 for clean low light images with low noise, Top display, front and rear control dials, 10 customizable button, Clean Full HD Movie output via HDMI
- Country of Origin:Thailand
8. Fujifilm X-T200
The Fujifilm X-T200 is a mirrorless camera that offers the feel of a DSLR with its retro design. Featuring a 24.2MP sensor and a vari-angle touchscreen, it’s wonderfully user-friendly.
Its unique Film Simulation modes make it fun to take photographs that have a vintage look and feel, giving you the flexibility to shoot in various styles. The camera supports 4K video, appealing to budding videographers.
The X-T200 also has a large EVF (electronic viewfinder) for composing shots, which can be quite handy in bright sunlight.
- Stellar Image Quality: Canon EOS R100 4K digital camera with 24.1 megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor for superb image clarity and detail can capture images with natural bokeh
- Compact Design: Compact, lightweight EOS R series 4K camera with an affordable price; smallest and lightest camera body in the EOS R series built for excellent mobility
- Powerful Image Processor: DIGIC 8 image processor allows for improved shooting functionality and 4K video capability; EOS R100 is a great starting point for users looking for mirrorless cameras with interchangeable lenses
- High-Speed Shooting: Capture HD video at up to 120 frames per second, Full HD video at 60 fps, and 4K video at up to 24 fps — an excellent entry-level choice of 4K camera for video recording
- Advanced Autofocus: Dual Pixel CMOS AF covers a wide area up to 143 zones with human face and eye detect AF; modern AF for stills and video with animal and vehicle detect AF; continuous capture of up to 6.5 shots per second when set to One-Shot AF
9. Panasonic Lumix GX85
Another excellent mirrorless option is the Panasonic Lumix GX85. Though not technically a DSLR, it provides an impressive array of features for beginners. Offering a micro four-thirds sensor, the GX85 captures exceptional quality across various lighting conditions.
The dual image stabilization helps ensure sharp images even when shooting handheld. Its 16MP sensor and definition allow for high-resolution shots and videos.
This model is compact, lightweight, and offers features like a silent shutter mode—perfect for those photography situations that require discretion.
- Fine Detail Performance: 16 megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor with no low pass filter resulting in a near 10 percent boost in fine detail resolving power over existing 16 megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensors
- Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera Kit: With 2 super compact lenses 12 32mm F3.5 5.6 and 45150mm F4.0 5.6, shoot lighter and faster with the modern hybrid photography performance of a mirrorless camera and nearly half the bulk of most DSLRs
- Class Leading Dual Image Stabilization: In body 5 axis dual image stabilization works in both photo and motion picture recording—including 4K video—to produce clear handheld shots even in low light conditions. Battery AC Adaptor (Input 110 - 240V AC) (Included, connect with USB cable). Battery life (CIPA standard) Approx. 290 images (rear monitor), 270 images (LVF) with H FS12032
- Live Viewfinder and Tilting LCD Display: Integrated eye level electronic viewfinder (2764K dots) and rear touch enabled 3 inch LCD display (1040K dots) provides 80 degrees of up tilt and 45 degrees of down tilt to maximize viewing. Recording media-(Compatible with UHS-I UHS Speed Class 3 standard SDHC / SDXC Memory Cards). Direct Print-Pict Bridge compatible
- 4K VIDEO CAPTURE: 4K QFHD video recording (3840 x 2160), plus exclusive Lumix 4K photo and 4K post focus allows you to record photos up to 30fps and set your desired focus points after the photo has been taken. Minimum Aperture: F22
10. Canon EOS Rebel T8i
The Canon EOS Rebel T8i is an upgrade on the T7, featuring a higher-resolution 24.1MP sensor. With 45 cross-type autofocus points, this model can capture fast-moving action, making it suitable for various photography styles.
The camera also includes a fully articulating touchscreen and 4K video capabilities, enhancing its versatility. It connects seamlessly with Canon’s Camera Connect app for easy sharing and remote shooting.
For photographers wanting to learn and grow, the Rebel T8i provides numerous automatic modes that assist in learning photography fundamentals.
- Optical Viewfinder with a 45-point All Cross-type AF System* with Face Detection.
- High Image Quality with 24.1 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) Sensor.
- High-Speed Continuous Shooting of up to 7.0 fps.
- 4K 24p along with Vertical Video.
- Turn your VIXIA camcorder into a high-quality webcam using its clean HDMI output.
Conclusion
Choosing the best starting DSLR depends on your photography interests, budget, and desired features. The aforementioned ten models are all excellent choices for beginners, each offering unique capabilities that cater to a range of preferences. Whether you’re drawn to Canon, Nikon, or another brand, each camera on this list will support you in capturing stunning images as you develop your skills. Remember, the best starting DSLR is one that meets your needs while providing the tools needed for growth and creativity. Embrace your photography journey, as your choice will set the stage for countless memories captured through your lens.
Last update on 2024-09-20 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API | votechriscarrillo.com is a participant in the Amazon Associate program and will earn from qualifying purchases.