Beginner dslr cameras

Editor's note

Many DSLRs have now been discontinued due to the mirrorless revolution, including the Nikon D3500 that tops our guide, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t consider buying a DSLR in today's market. In fact, now might be the perfect time to grab one of these models at a bargain price. 

For now, these cameras remain on sale. But, as production has stopped, once they’re gone, they’re gone, same with lenses too, some have already been taken off the shelves but thankfully as DSLRs have been around for some time many own brand and third party lenses are still on sale at record prices, meaning you could pick yourself up great kit for half the price it would of cost you when launched, perfect for anyone shooing on a budget. 

If you’re looking for an affordable, entry-level model with a good range of specs to get you started you’d be wise to invest now in the list below which give you outstanding image quality and video recording for an amazing price.

The best beginner DSLRs still remain fantastic options for those new to photography. Despite the revolution towards mirrorless technology, traditional DSLRs are still a great choice, especially if you're leaning towards a budget-friendly camera in these difficult times.

DSLR cameras come with a few advantages. If you want the latest autofocus technology, more compact form factor, and continuous burst shooting that goes beyond 10fps, you might be better served by one of the best mirrorless cameras. But, if you’re keen on longer battery life, crystal clear optical viewfinders, excellent handling and a great range of affordable compatible lenses, then these classic cameras are the way to go.

We’ve spent hundreds of hours testing most cameras over the last decade, which makes us the experts on finding which models are worth considering and what makes an excellent DSLR. To help you find the ideal entry-level DSLR for you, we distilled our findings into this packed out guide.

It’s been quite some time since a brand new DSLR hit the market, and as such, all of the models featured here have been around for a while. That means you're likely to find great deals, saving you even more money, and each model has been tried, tested, and vetted by real-world photographers. 

The Nikon D3500, which tops our list, is a great example. Despite recently being discontinued (stock still exists), we still think it’s the best beginner DSLR thanks to its handy ‘Guide Mode’, which walks you through key settings to help you on your photographic journey, it offers great handling, a diverse range of compatible lenses, and most importantly, excellent image quality for the price.

Alternatives include the similarly-priced and equally capable Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / 250D / 200D Mark II, which as far as we know is still in production. If you have a slightly bigger budget, you might want to go for the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / Canon EOS 850D, which is one of the newest models on the list having arrived in 2020.

It’s wise to consider that it’s not just Nikon and Canon which have halted DSLR production. Sony also confirmed the discontinuation of DSLR production (no surprise to anyone, considering just how mirrorless focused the company is). However, there are still plenty of these DSLRs on the market, with an abundance of lenses that offer an incredible performance to price ratio.

If you'd prefer to take a look at a more general guide, our best beginner cameras guide should have both DSLR and mirrorless options. But, if you want to keep it old school, take a look at our beginner DSLR picks below.

The best beginner DSLRs 2022

The best overall DSLR for beginners

Specifications

Sensor: APS-C CMOS

Megapixels: 24.2MP

Lens mount: Nikon DX

Screen: 3-inch, 921,000 dots

Continuous shooting speed: 5fps

Max video resolution: 1080p

User level: Beginner

Reasons to buy

+

Excellent image quality

Reasons to avoid

-

No touchscreen control

Nikon may not have announced any new entry-level DSLRs for a while, but the D3500 remains an excellent option for those who are new to photography. It picks up from where the D3400 left off, but with a handful of extra perks. Unlike power-hungry mirrorless models, the major advantage of this camera is battery life. We found that it could keep going for over 1,500 images between charges, which is way ahead of most other DSLRs. In our tests, the 24MP sensor also delivered excellent image quality. 

Nikon also revised the body and control layout of the D3500 compared to previous generations, which we think makes it nicer to handle and easier to use. The useful Guide Mode also takes the first-time user's hand and walks them through all the key features in a way that makes everything easy to understand. We still love the D3500 – and if you're just getting started, we reckon you will, too. 

Read our in-depth Nikon D3500 review

The best budget DSLR for beginners

Specifications

Sensor: APS-C CMOS

Megapixels: 24.1MP

Lens mount: Canon EF-S

Screen: 3-inch, 1,040,000 dots

Continuous shooting speed: 5fps

Max video resolution: 4K

User level: Beginner

Reasons to buy

+

Nice JPEGs straight from the camera

Reasons to avoid

-

9-point AF system is dated

The EOS Rebel SL3 (also known as the 250D and 200D Mark II, outside the US) isn't Canon's cheapest DSLR, but we think it offers the best blend of features, performance and value around. For a start, it's the smallest and lightest DSLR with an articulating screen, which means it isn't an intimidatingly large as some of its rivals. It also adds a fresh processing engine and 4K video recording to its Rebel SL2 (EOS 200D) predecessor.

We were impressed with its responsive touchscreen, speedy start-up time and excellent Dual Pixel CMOS AF system, which also works when you're shooting 1080p video (though not sadly in 4K). Its 5fps burst shooting can't compete with the latest mirrorless cameras, so those who like to shoot sports or action should look elsewhere. But for our money, the EOS Rebel SL3 / EOS 250D makes slightly more sense than Canon's super-budget DSLRs like the EOS Rebel T100 (also know as the EOS 4000D / EOS 3000D), if you can afford to pay that bit more.

Read our in-depth Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / EOS 250D review

The best premium DSLR for beginners

Specifications

Sensor: APS-C CMOS

Megapixels: 24.1MP

Lens mount: Canon EF-S

Screen: 3-inch articulating touchscreen, 1,040,000 dots

Continuous shooting speed: 7fps

Max video resolution: 4K

User level: Beginner/enthusiast

Reasons to buy

+

Good image quality

Reasons to avoid

-

Plasticky build

The Canon EOS Rebel T8i (know as the EOS 850D outside the US) takes the baton from the popular Rebel T7i / EOS 800D, which is now tricky to find. This new model isn't a huge upgrade, with the most notable addition being a 4K video mode that we found to be hampered by frame-rate restrictions. Still, the Rebel T8i / EOS 850D remains one of our favorite all-round DSLRs for beginners. 

You get a Dual Pixel phase-detection AF system, which in our tests was fast, reliable and great for video. Its button layout is also very considered, while the vari-angle LCD screen handles really well. As long you ignore that headline of 4K video, which involves a crop and the loss of phase-detection autofocus, it remains a great option for anyone who's starting a photography hobby and prizes DSLR advantages like battery life and handling over the latest mirrorless tech. 

Read our in-depth Canon EOS Rebel T8i / EOS 850D review

Need a bit more power? The D5600 could be what you're after

Specifications

Sensor: APS-C CMOS

Megapixels: 24.2MP

Lens mount: Nikon DX

Screen: 3.2-inch articulating touchscreen, 1,040,000 dots

Continuous shooting speed: 5fps

Max video resolution: 1080p

User level: Beginner/enthusiast

Reasons to buy

+

Excellent image quality

Reasons to avoid

-

Slow Live View focusing

Here's another beginner DSLR that is holding its own against the rise of mirrorless cameras. The D5600 is a step up from Nikon's D3000-series models, with a stronger set of specs to rival the likes of the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / EOS 850D (see above). Key advantages over the D3500 include a large touchscreen that has a vlogging-friendly articulating design to flips round to the front, plus Wi-Fi and a healthy range of additional control on the inside. 

In our tests, its 24.2MP sensor also produced very detailed images that didn't disappoint. In fact, despite the D5600's age, you'll likely need to upgrade to a full-frame camera to get better results. We also found the 39-point AF system to be decent, if a little dated, while some polished handling makes the D5600 a well-rounded entry-level DSLRs. You need to pay a little bit more for the privilege, but if you need a little more growing space, it makes sense to go for the D5600 – it'll be a reliable companion for years to come.

Read our in-depth Nikon D5600 review

A no-frills entry-level DSLR at a bargain price

Specifications

Sensor: APS-C CMOS

Megapixels: 24.1MP

Lens mount: Canon EF-S

Screen: 3-inch, 920,000 dots

Continuous shooting speed: 3fps

Max video resolution: 1080p

User level: Beginner

Reasons to buy

+

Easy to use

Reasons to avoid

-

Dated AF system

This is one of the cheapest DSLRs in Canon's current line-up, which also makes it a very cost-effective way to get access to an endless assortment of lenses, flashguns and other accessories. Its low price tag means it understandably lacks some of the fancy tricks of its bigger brothers – like a flip-out LCD, 4K video and so on – but there's still a very good level of physical control on offer. 

Most importantly, we found the image quality produced by the 24MP sensor to be very sound. The camera is designed very much with its target audience in mind, with a Feature Guide to help you understand basic settings, while its impressive battery life is also better than many mirrorless models at this price point. Wi-Fi, NFC and Full HD video recording round off the specs, making it a well-rounded first-time option for those on a budget.

Read our in-depth Canon EOS Rebel T7 / EOS 2000D / EOS 1500D review

A feature-packed all-rounder that gives you lots of room to grow

Specifications

Sensor: APS-C CMOS

Megapixels: 32.5MP

Lens mount: EF/EF-S

Screen: 3-inch vars-angle touchscreen, 1,040,000 dots

Continuous shooting speed: 11fps

Max video resolution: 4K/30p

User level: Beginner/enthusiast

Reasons to buy

+

High-resolution sensor

Reasons to avoid

-

No image stabilization

The Canon EOS 90D might be the last enthusiast-level DSLR the company ever makes – and if so, it’s going out with a bang. The versatile 90D packs a high-resolution sensor which, paired with Canon’s Digic 8 imaging engine, offers the enticing prospect of uncropped 4K video at 30fps. 

In our tests, color reproduction was superb and there was plenty of detail in both stills and video. A new 216-zone metering system also helped in this department, even if noise did creep into images above ISO 8000. A deeper grip meant the 90D is also felt really comfortable in our hands, while a joystick made selecting from the Dual Pixel CMOS AF points a cinch. 

Battery life is a boon, too, with at least 1,500 shots possible on a single charge in our experience. It's possibly a bit too much camera for an absolute beginner (both in price and features), but there's no doubt it offers a lot of room to grow into. Either way, the 90D proves that DSLRs still very much have a place in the mirrorless world.

Read our in-depth Canon EOS 90D review

A basic but very affordable option for beginners

Specifications

Sensor: APS-C CMOS

Megapixels: 18MP

Lens mount: Canon EF/EF-S

Screen: 2.7-inch, 230,000 dots

Continuous shooting speed: 3fps

Max video resolution: 1080p

User level: Beginner

Reasons to buy

+

Easy to use

Reasons to avoid

-

Small, low-res sensor

If you’re making your first foray into DSLR ownership, you don’t necessarily need a camera that can do everything. And if you’re looking for something very basic but very affordable, Canon’s 4000D (also called the 3000D in some markets) is a decent first choice. 

There’s a lot about the 4000D that seems dated alongside the latest entry-level models. The 18MP sensor and DIGIC 4+ processor are both aging, as is the modest 9-point autofocus system, which has been in Canon’s catalogue since 2009. The LCD display likewise feels long in the tooth, with a 2.7-inch diagonal and 230k-dot resolution, while we found Live View performance to be a little sluggish. Finally, the polycarbonate shell feels understandably cheap.

But it’s not all bad: we found the button layout easy to navigate, while battery life proved solid in our tests at about 500 shots per charge. Even more importantly, we found image quality to be adequate, with noise handled fairly well. Those upgrading from a smartphone or compact should find results decent, with a fair amount of detail and a good level of saturation, while Picture Style presets enable easy tonal tweaks. To more experienced buyers, the 4000D will feel like a step back in time, with older components and unremarkable performance. But if affordability is your priority, you might be able to look past the limited feature set and see some wallet-friendly potential.

Read our in-depth Canon EOS Rebel T100 / EOS 4000D review

Rugged and great value – an impressive alternative to the big two

Specifications

Sensor: APS-C CMOS

Megapixels: 24.2MP

Lens mount: Pentax K

Screen: 3-inch, 921,000 dots

Continuous shooting speed: 6fps

Max video resolution: Full HD

User level: Beginner

Reasons to buy

+

Compact and rugged

Reasons to avoid

-

Few autofocus points

Although it's a few years old now, the Pentax K-70 remains a good value option for those who want something different from the 'big two' DSLR manufacturers. It's a particularly good choice if you have a stash of old Pentax lenses gathering dust in a basement. The K-70 has a very useful articulating screen, while the hybrid live view autofocus system makes it an actual practical alternative to using the viewfinder. 

Our favorite thing about the K-70 is its tough build quality, which is typically lacking in entry-level models. If you're keen to take lots of pictures outdoors – such as landscape shooting – being able to rely on it not being destroyed by inclement weather is a big bonus. One slight disappointment is the kit lens which is often bundled with the camera – while it offers a much longer focal length than most others here, we found that it can be a little soft in places.

Read our in-depth Pentax K-70 review

How to choose the best beginner DSLR for you

There are three main factors to consider when buying a beginner-friendly DSLR: the camera's size, screen and kit lens options.

If you're trying to learn your way around manual settings like aperture and shutter speed, which is one of the main benefits of a DSLR, then you'll ideally need a model that's small and light. This means you'll be more likely to take it out regularly and master those controls. The most beginner-friendly cameras, like the Nikon D3500 and Canon 250D, tend to be particularly small for DSLRs, so take a close look at those.

Looking to shoot lots of video along with your stills? DSLRs can be a cheap way to get into vlogging too, so make sure you look out for models with a vari-angle screen (like the ones on most Canon models) if you need this. These can help you shoot from different angles and also flip round to the front so you can check your framing while recording to camera.

Lastly, you'll want to consider lenses. As a beginner, you'll most likely be starting from scratch, which means it makes more sense to buy your DSLR with a kit lens. A word of warning here, though – most manufacturers offer two types of kits lens, one with image stabilization and one without. It's best to go with the image-stabilized kit lens, as you'll be able to shoot sharper images at slower shutter speeds.

While an 18-55mm kit lens will be more than enough to get you started, one of the big benefits of DSLRs is being able to add extra lenses for different kinds of photography. For example, wide-angle and telephoto zoom lenses, as well as high-quality macro options. You can also add a flashgun and other accessories, which help you to make the most of whatever types of photography you're into.  

Still not entirely sure whether you need a DSLR or a mirrorless camera? Don't forget to check out our Mirrorless vs DSLR cameras guide. Alternatively, if don't quite know what kind of camera you need at all, then read our easy-to-follow guide to camera types: What camera should I buy?

How we test DSLRs

Buying a camera these days is a big investment, so every camera in this guide has been tested extensively by us. These days, real-world tests are the most revealing way to understand a camera's performance and character, so we focus heavily on those, along with standardized tests for factors like ISO performance.

To start with, we look at the camera's design, handling and controls to get a sense of what kind of photographer it's aimed at and who would most enjoy shooting with it. When we take it out on a shoot, we'll use it both handheld and on a tripod to get a sense of where its strengths lie, and test its startup speed.

When it comes to performance, we use a formatted SD card and shoot in both raw and JPEG (if available). For burst shooting tests, we dial in our regular test settings (1/250 sec, ISO 200, continuous AF) and shoot a series of frames in front of a stopwatch to see if it lives up to its claimed speeds. We'll also look at how quickly the buffers clears and repeat the test for both raw and JPEG files.

Where applicable, we also test the camera's different autofocus modes in different lighting conditions (including Face and Eye AF) in single point, area and continuous modes. We also shoot a range of photos of different styles (portrait, landscape, low light, macro/close-up) in raw and JPEG to get a sense of metering and its sensor's ability to handle noise and resolve fine detail.

If the camera's raw files are supported by Adobe Camera Raw, we'll also process some test images to see how we can push areas like shadow recovery. And we'll also test its ISO performance across the whole range to get a sense of the levels we'd be happy to push the camera to.

Battery life is tested in a real-world fashion, as we use the camera over the course of the day with the screen set to the default settings. Once the battery has reached zero, we'll then count the number of shots to see how it compares to the camera's CIPA rating. Finally, we test the camera's video skills (where necessary) by shooting some test footage at different frame rates and resolutions, along with its companion app.

We then take everything we've learned about the camera and factor in its price to get a sense of the value-for-money it offers, before reaching our final verdict.

Should you buy a mirrorless camera over a DSLR? Watch our guide video below to learn more: 

Sharmishta is TechRadar's APAC Managing Editor and loves all things photography, something she discovered while chasing monkeys in the wilds of India (yes, she studied to be a primatologist but has since left monkey business behind). While she's happiest with a camera in her hand, she's also an avid reader and has become a passionate proponent of ereaders, having appeared on Singaporean radio to talk about the convenience of these underrated devices. When she's not testing cameras and lenses, she's discovering the joys and foibles of smart home gizmos. She also contributes to Digital Camera World and T3, and helps produce two of Future's photography print magazines in Australia.