Choosing a budget-friendly DSLR is a great way to get into photography without stretching your finances. In tough economic times, it’s understandable to be mindful of spending, but that doesn’t mean you have to put your creative pursuits on hold. Instead, making informed choices and prioritizing value can help you continue your passion without overspending.
DSLRs remain a solid option for photographers looking for affordability without compromising on quality. While mirrorless cameras dominate today’s market with cutting-edge features, DSLRs have been refined over decades and continue to offer excellent performance. Though fewer new models are being released and deals are becoming scarcer, these cameras still present a cost-effective choice for those who value reliability and durability.
With their mechanical shutters and optical viewfinders, DSLRs provide a tactile and immersive shooting experience that many photographers appreciate. Their robust build quality often includes weather sealing, making them reliable tools for outdoor shooting in various conditions.
One of the biggest advantages of DSLRs is their extensive lens compatibility. Decades of lens development mean that a vast selection is available, particularly on the secondhand market. This makes DSLRs not only an affordable initial investment but also a practical long-term choice for photographers looking to expand their kit without breaking the bank.
While they may not have the ultra-fast autofocus or cutting-edge video capabilities of the latest mirrorless models, most photographers don’t require those features for everyday shooting. If your priority is capturing stunning still images rather than chasing the newest technology, budget DSLRs offer a dependable, flexible, and high-value alternative at a fraction of the cost.
Best budget DSLRs: our top picks
This is Canon’s entry-level DSLR, designed to be a solid starting point for anyone’s journey into photography. As such, it is extremely basically kitted out – with just 3fps burst mode and a simple 9-point autofocus system.
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If you are looking for the most modern features in a DSLR, then the Pentax KF is most likely your only option, with no other brand actively developing new DSLRs.
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The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 (sold as the EOS 250D in Europe) may not be the firm’s cheapest DSLR, but if you’re willing to pay the extra bucks, you do get quite a bit more for your money.
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If you want to use a proper camera over your smartphone the Nikon D5600 is the perfect camera for photography enthusiasts with 24MP stills and 1080p Full HD video capabilities.
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If your looking for a great budget DSLR that also the best weather sealing to take on the most extreme weather condition, look no further.
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This is very similar to the Rebel T7/EOS 2000D - but swaps out the 24MP sensor for a lower-resolution 18MP one, to offer a slightly cheaper option. For our money, we think it is worth paying the extra though.
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Jon spent years at IPC Media writing features, news, reviews and other photography content for publications such as Amateur Photographer and What Digital Camera in both print and digital form. With his additional experience for outlets like Photomonitor, this makes Jon one of our go-to specialists when it comes to all aspects of photography, from cameras and action cameras to lenses and memory cards, flash diffusers and triggers, batteries and memory cards, selfie sticks and gimbals, and more besides.
An NCTJ-qualified journalist, he has also contributed to Shortlist, The Skinny, ThreeWeeks Edinburgh, The Guardian, Trusted Reviews, CreativeBloq, and probably quite a few others we’ve forgotten.
The best budget DSLRs
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Best for beginners
Sample images
✅ You're on a strict budget: Offers all you need, but that's it
❌ You want good Autofocus: It's present, but it's very basic
This is Canon’s most entry-level DSLR, designed to be a solid starting point for anyone’s journey into photography. As such, it is extremely basically kitted out – with just 3fps burst mode and a simple 9-point autofocus system, it’s not going to win any awards for speed.
The fundamentals, however, are solid – it’s got a 24.2MP APS-C sensor that produces images of decent quality for the price. In our review, we found that the EOS Rebel T7 (sold as the EOS 2000D in Europe) outperformed its entry-level rivals in image quality lab tests.
The EF-S lens mount means you have a huge catalog of lenses to play with. This will be useful, as the kit lens bundled with the camera is not much to write home about. Fundamentally though, this budget DSLR does everything required to justify its price, and any starting photographer will find it a solid platform to learn on.
A similar Canon EOS Rebel T100 / EOS 4000D model is also available but has a lower resolution 18MP sensor, and a smaller 2.7in screen.
Read our full Canon Rebel T7 / EOS 2000D review for more details
Lab results | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
Resolution (ISO 200) | 29/60 | ★★★★ |
Dynamic range (ISO 200) | 12 EV | ★★★ |
Noise (ISO 200) | 45 decibels | ★★★★ |
final thoughts
The Canon EOS 2000D stands out as a reliable and affordable gateway into DSLR photography. With its 24.1MP APS-C sensor, simple controls, and access to Canon’s extensive EF lens lineup, it’s well-suited for beginners looking to learn the basics.
While it lacks some modern features, it delivers consistently pleasing image quality and classic DSLR handling. For those seeking solid performance without breaking the bank, the EOS 2000D remains a strong contender in the best budget DSLR category.
Best for most people
Sample images
✅ You want a value-packed DSLR: The KF is packed with features not normally seen in a DSLR, like IBIS and an astrophotography mode.
✅ You shoot in all weathers: The KF's extensive weather sealing is also unusual at this price point.
❌ Video is a priority: The KF is designed primarily as a stills camera, and its video tops out at 1080p.
❌ You want maximum lens selection: Pentax's lens range has always trailed Canon and Nikon's selection, while many of its lenses feel dated.
If you are looking for the most modern features in a DSLR, then the Pentax KF is most likely your only option, with no other brand actively developing new DSLRs. Pentax fans will notice a long list of similarities between the older Pentax K-70 and this new Pentax KF, although the new camera brings a higher-res LCD screen and a slightly lower weight.
Aimed at enthusiast photographers, the Pentax KF hits all the basics of photography very well, and for a very reasonable price. Combining a Hybrid AF, with 4.5 stops of image stabilization, a built-in flash, bulb mode, and an articulating screen, this is a very versatile photographer's camera.
Built with Pentax's renowned reliability, the Pentax KF is rugged weather sealed with water and dust proofing and provides dependable cold-proof performance down to as low as 14°F (-10°C).
Read our full Pentax KF review.
Lab results | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
Resolution (ISO 200) | 26/60 | ★★★ |
Dynamic range (ISO 200) | 12.74 EV | ★★★★★ |
Noise (ISO 200) | 39.16 decibels | ★★★★ |
final thoughts
The Pentax KF is a unique offering in the budget DSLR space, blending rugged, weather-sealed construction with impressive image quality from its 24.2MP APS-C sensor. While its autofocus system and video features may lag behind rivals, the KF shines for stills shooters who value durability and hands-on control.
With in-body image stabilization, an optical viewfinder, and a fully articulating screen, it offers a compelling alternative to more mainstream options - earning its place as one of the best budget DSLRs for adventurous photographers.
Best for video
✅ You want your DSLR to be as small as possible: the SL3 is one of the smallest DSLRs ever - an ideal travel companion.
✅ You're just starting out: a guided menu system and touch-screen control are handy for beginners.
❌ You want to shoot lots of video: 4K video is technically present, but heavily compromised. Video AF is also not the fastest.
The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 (sold as the EOS 250D in Europe) may not be the firm’s cheapest DSLR, but if you’re willing to pay the extra bucks, you do get quite a bit more for your money. Unlike the EOS 2000D, the EOS 250D sports a vari-angle touchscreen, an autofocus system that uses Canon’s Dual Pixel sensor technology, and the ability to shoot 4K UHD video. This is all quite a jump – and it comes in one of the smallest, lightest DSLRs on the market. Not bad!
The EOS 250D also costs a little more, generally speaking, than the Nikon D3500, and it’s more or less a matter of preference as to which one you go for. The clincher may be whether 4K is a deal-breaker for you – if you aren’t bothered about video, the cheaper camera may be the better bet. Otherwise, this is a superb choice.
Read our full Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / EOS 250D review
Lab results | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
Resolution (ISO 200) | 26/60 | ★★★ |
Dynamic range (ISO 200) | 11.68 EV | ★★★★ |
Noise (ISO 200) | 42.03 decibels | ★★★★★ |
final thoughts
The Canon EOS 250D strikes a fine balance between portability, performance, and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for beginners . Its 24.1MP sensor, Dual Pixel AF in live view, and 4K video capture give it a modern edge, while the compact DSLR body retains the familiar handling many users appreciate. With a fully articulating touchscreen and solid battery life, the 250D offers great value and versatility, securing its place as one of the best budget DSLRs on the market.
Best for enthusiasts
✅ You use Live View a lot: This features impressive Live View AF
❌ You want 4K video: Unfortunately, video resolution is capped at Full HD 1080P
While this camera has joined the Nikon D3500 in being consigned to the discontinued graveyard, it’s still widely available and makes for a great intermediate choice if you’ve got a slightly higher budget. The autofocus system is streets ahead of other cameras on this list, with 39 points, including 9 of the more accurate cross-type points, and it performs surprisingly well in Live View, which is great for video (no 4K though, sadly).
As noted in our review, we particularly love the design of the D5600, which blends the lightness of mirrorless with a DSLR’s graspability. An enthusiast DSLR without the bulk commonly associated with the term, this is a solid intermediate choice.
Read our full Nikon D5600 review
Lab results | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
Resolution (ISO 200) | 23/60 | ★★★★ |
Dynamic range (ISO 200) | 11 EV | ★★★ |
Noise (ISO 200) | 37 decibels | ★★★★ |
final thoughts
The Nikon D5600 remains one of the most well-rounded budget DSLRs available, combining a 24.2MP sensor with a responsive 39-point autofocus system and a bright, fully articulating touchscreen. It offers excellent image quality, strong battery life, and intuitive controls that appeal to both beginners and more advanced users.
While it lacks 4K video and some modern connectivity features, its overall performance and handling make it a standout option for those seeking a dependable and capable DSLR without a premium price tag.
Best weather-sealed
✅ You want a rugged package: This camera is a solid choice, weather-sealed, and built like a tank
❌ You want quick autofocus: The K-70 has an extremely dated AF system that leaves a lot to be desired
While Canon and Nikon may be the biggest names in DSLRs, don’t count out Pentax just yet. The brand’s revival by Ricoh has seen a run of quietly competent DSLRs, garnering a reputation for comprehensive weather-sealing that has made them popular among outdoor photographers, and they tend to be cheaper than equivalent cameras from the Big Two. The Pentax K-70 is a great choice for budget users who like to take their cameras out in rough conditions.
Something to be aware of is that the range of contemporary lenses is much slimmer than you’d get for EF or F mounts. K-mount may be old, but not many lenses are being made for it nowadays. The AF system also lags behind the advanced systems employed in Canon and Nikon DSLRs.
Read our full Pentax K-70 review
Lab results | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
Resolution (ISO 200) | 30/60 | ★★★★ |
Dynamic range (ISO 200) | 12 EV | ★★★ |
Noise (ISO 200) | 42 decibels | ★★★★ |
final thoughts
The Pentax K-70 is a standout in the budget DSLR category, offering features rarely seen at this price point - like in-body image stabilization, a fully weather-sealed build, and excellent low-light performance from its 24.2MP sensor.
While its autofocus in live view and video capabilities are limited, the K-70 excels for stills photographers who want rugged reliability and advanced control. For outdoor shooters and enthusiasts seeking durability and image quality without a high cost, the K-70 is a compelling and often underrated choice.
Also consider
✅ You're on the strictest budget: Offers all you need, but that's it
❌ You want good autofocus: It's present, but it's very basic
❌ You can afford the Canon T7/2000D: the step-up model is worth the extra
The Canon EOS Rebel T100 (sold in Europe and Australasia as the EOS 4000D or EOS 3000D), is the cheapest of Canon's DSLR models. It was launched at the same time, in 2018, as the Canon Rebel T7 / EOS 2000D and shares much of the same specification.
There are two key differences, though. The first is that this model options a lower resolution 18MP screen (instead of a 24MP one).
The other difference is that this uses a noticeably smaller 2.7in LCD screen, with a marked reduction in the number of pixels (down to 230,000, from 920,000).
Both may seem like small sacrifices - but we would still recommend paying that little bit extra and opt for the higher-specified model.
Read our full Canon Rebel T100 / EOS 4000D review
Lab results | Score | Rating |
|---|---|---|
Resolution (ISO 200) | 24/60 | ★★★ |
Dynamic range (ISO 200) | 11 EV | ★★★ |
Noise (ISO 200) | 42 decibels | ★★★★ |
final thoughts
The Canon Rebel T100 is one of the most affordable entry points into DSLR photography, aimed squarely at first-time users. Its 18MP sensor and basic feature set won’t turn heads, but it delivers dependable image quality and the core DSLR experience at a rock-bottom price.
With access to Canon’s vast EF lens ecosystem and straightforward controls, it’s a practical starting point for beginners - though those seeking room to grow may find better long-term value in slightly higher-tier models.
How we test DSLR cameras
We test DSLR cameras both in real-world shooting scenarios and in carefully controlled lab conditions. Find out how we test and review on Digital Camera World.
Our lab tests measure resolution, dynamic range, and signal-to-noise ratio. Resolution is measured using ISO resolution charts, dynamic range is measured using DxO Analyzer test equipment and DxO Analyzer is also used for noise analysis across the camera's ISO range. We use both real-world testing and our lab results to inform our comments in buying guides.
