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10 Best Budget Dslr Cameras 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm Lens | Built-in Wi-Fi | 24.1 MP CMOS Sensor | DIGIC 4+ Image Processor and Full HD Videos
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is an attractive option for those looking to step into the world of DSLR photography without breaking the bank. With a 24.1 MP CMOS sensor, it delivers clear and detailed images, which is impressive for this price range. The camera supports an ISO range of 100 to 6400, expandable to 12800, making it versatile for various lighting conditions. This feature is particularly beneficial for beginners who may not always shoot in perfect light.
Rating
9.7
Chosen by1,206
Lens Compatibility
Build Quality and Ergonomics
Battery Life
Most important from
7959 reviews
#2
Nikon D850 DSLR Camera, Bundle with 64GB Memory Card, Alpine 160 Bag
The Nikon D850 is a high-end DSLR camera with a 45.7-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, offering exceptional image quality and detail. It is capable of 4K UHD video recording at 30 frames per second, making it suitable for professional-grade videography. The advanced autofocus system, derived from Nikon's flagship D5, features 153 focus points, ensuring precise and fast focusing, which is beneficial for capturing fast-moving subjects.
#3
Nikon D7500 20.9MP DSLR Camera with AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens, Black
The Nikon D7500 is a compelling option in the budget DSLR camera category, especially for enthusiasts seeking good image quality and versatility. With its 20.9 megapixel sensor and impressive ISO range (100 to 51,200), the camera excels in low-light conditions, allowing for clear shots even in challenging environments. The 51-point autofocus system, which includes 15 cross-type sensors, offers reliable focusing, particularly beneficial for capturing fast-moving subjects. Its continuous shooting capability of up to 8 frames per second is another strong point for action photography.
Rating
9.2
Autofocus System
Lens Compatibility
Build Quality and Ergonomics
Most important from
1605 reviews
Top 10 Best Budget Dslr Cameras 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm Lens | Built-in Wi-Fi | 24.1 MP CMOS Sensor | DIGIC 4+ Image Processor and Full HD Videos
Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm Lens | Built-in Wi-Fi | 24.1 MP CMOS Sensor | DIGIC 4+ Image Processor and Full HD Videos
Sensor Size: CMOS
Megapixels: 24.1 MP
ISO Range: 100 to 6400, expandable to 12800
Autofocus System: 9-point AF, AI Servo AF
Lens Compatibility: Canon EF, EF-S
Video Capabilities: Full HD at 30 fps
Build Quality and Ergonomics: Sturdy
Battery Life: 500 Photos
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, NFC, USB, HDMI
Chosen by 1206 this week
Nikon D850 DSLR Camera, Bundle with 64GB Memory Card, Alpine 160 Bag
Nikon D850 DSLR Camera, Bundle with 64GB Memory Card, Alpine 160 Bag
Sensor Size: 35.9 mm x 23.9 mm
Megapixels: 45.7 MP
ISO Range: 32-102400
Autofocus System: 153 points, Phase Detection
Lens Compatibility: Nikon DX, Nikon FX
Video Capabilities: 4K UHD at 30 fps
Build Quality and Ergonomics: Robust build quality
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi
Nikon D7500 20.9MP DSLR Camera with AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens, Black
Nikon D7500 20.9MP DSLR Camera with AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-140mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR Lens, Black
Sensor Size: APS-C
Megapixels: 20.9 MP
ISO Range: 100 to 51,200
Autofocus System: 51-point, 15 cross-type
Lens Compatibility: Nikon DX
Video Capabilities: 4K UHD, 1080p FHD
Build Quality and Ergonomics: Solid build
Battery Life: Decent
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Canon EOS Rebel SL3 Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm Lens kit, Built-in Wi-Fi, Dual Pixel CMOS AF and 3.0 Inch Vari-Angle Touch Screen, Black
Canon EOS Rebel SL3 Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm Lens kit, Built-in Wi-Fi, Dual Pixel CMOS AF and 3.0 Inch Vari-Angle Touch Screen, Black
Sensor Size: APS-C
Megapixels: 24.1 MP
ISO Range: 100
Autofocus System: Dual Pixel CMOS, 9 points
Lens Compatibility: Canon EF-S
Video Capabilities: 4K
Build Quality and Ergonomics: Lightweight, compact, plastic
Battery Life: 820 shots per charge
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
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
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
Sensor Size: APS-C
Megapixels: 32.5 MP
ISO Range: 100-51200
Autofocus System: 45 cross-type points, Dual Pixel
Lens Compatibility: Canon EF-S
Video Capabilities: 4K
Build Quality and Ergonomics: Good, not weather-sealed
Battery Life: 1300 shots
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Related Products
PENTAX K-3 Mark III Monochrome [A Monochrome-Specific Digital SLR Camera] [Field of View 100%, Approx. 1.05x Optical viewfinder] [Dustproof/Weather-Resistant Construction ]
PENTAX K-3 Mark III Monochrome [A Monochrome-Specific Digital SLR Camera] [Field of View 100%, Approx. 1.05x Optical viewfinder] [Dustproof/Weather-Resistant Construction ]
Sensor Size: APS-C
Megapixels: 25 MP
ISO Range: 100 to very high
Autofocus System: 101 points, Contrast Detection
Lens Compatibility: Pentax K-mount
Video Capabilities: 4K 3840x2160 30p/24p, MP4, no audio
Build Quality and Ergonomics: Weather resistant, magnesium body
Battery Life: 1 Lithium Ion battery, 1860 mAh
Connectivity: USB
Nikon D5100 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 Auto Focus-S Nikkor Zoom Lens (OLD MODEL)
Nikon D5100 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 Auto Focus-S Nikkor Zoom Lens (OLD MODEL)
Sensor Size: DX format CMOS
Megapixels: 16.2MP
ISO Range: 100-25600
Autofocus System: 11-point with 3D tracking
Lens Compatibility: Nikon F mount (DX, FX)
Video Capabilities: 1080p HD, full-time autofocus
Build Quality and Ergonomics: Lightweight, compact
Battery Life: AA batteries
Connectivity: HDMI, USB
Nikon D5600 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm VR and 70-300mm Lenses + 128GB Card, Tripod, Flash, and More (20pc Bundle)
Nikon D5600 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm VR and 70-300mm Lenses + 128GB Card, Tripod, Flash, and More (20pc Bundle)
Sensor Size: DX-format
Megapixels: 24.2 MP
ISO Range: 100-25600
Autofocus System: 39-point
Lens Compatibility: Nikon F
Video Capabilities: 1080p at 60 fps
Build Quality and Ergonomics: Solid, good ergonomics, plastic body
Battery Life: Decent
Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC
Nikon D3300 24.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR with Auto Focus-S DX Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR II Zoom Lens (Black)
Nikon D3300 24.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR with Auto Focus-S DX Nikkor 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR II Zoom Lens (Black)
Sensor Size: APS-C
Megapixels: 24.2 MP
ISO Range: 100-12800, expandable to 25600
Autofocus System: 11-point with 3D tracking
Lens Compatibility: Nikon F-mount lenses
Video Capabilities: 1080p HD video
Build Quality and Ergonomics: Lightweight, 0.95 pounds
Battery Life: Reasonable
Connectivity: USB, video out, wireless
#10
PENTAX KF APS-C Digital SLR Camera Body kit with Dustproof, Weather-Resistant and Vari-Angle LCD Monitor, Black
PENTAX KF APS-C Digital SLR Camera Body kit with Dustproof, Weather-Resistant and Vari-Angle LCD Monitor, Black
Sensor Size: APS-C
Megapixels: 24.24
ISO Range: 100 to 102400
Autofocus System: Contrast Detection
Lens Compatibility: Pentax KAF
Video Capabilities: Full HD (1920x1080)
Build Quality and Ergonomics: Dustproof, weather-resistant
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, USB 2.0
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Buying Guide for the Best Budget Dslr Cameras
Choosing the right budget DSLR camera can be a rewarding experience, especially if you are new to photography or looking to upgrade from a smartphone or point-and-shoot camera. The key is to understand the features that matter most to you and how they will impact your photography. By focusing on the essential specifications, you can find a camera that meets your needs without breaking the bank.Sensor SizeThe sensor size in a DSLR camera determines the quality of the images it can produce. Larger sensors capture more light and detail, resulting in better image quality, especially in low-light conditions. Common sensor sizes include APS-C and Full Frame. APS-C sensors are smaller and more affordable, making them a popular choice for budget DSLRs. Full Frame sensors are larger and offer superior image quality but are typically found in higher-end models. For most beginners and hobbyists, an APS-C sensor will provide excellent results.
MegapixelsMegapixels refer to the resolution of the camera's sensor, indicating how many millions of pixels the sensor can capture. Higher megapixels mean more detail in your photos, which is beneficial for large prints or cropping images. However, more megapixels also mean larger file sizes. For general photography, a camera with 16-24 megapixels is usually sufficient. If you plan to do a lot of cropping or large-scale printing, you might want to look for a camera with 24-30 megapixels.
ISO RangeThe ISO range of a camera determines its sensitivity to light. A wider ISO range allows you to shoot in various lighting conditions, from bright sunlight to dim indoor settings. Higher ISO values can introduce noise (graininess) into your photos, so it's important to find a balance. For most users, an ISO range of 100-6400 is adequate, providing flexibility for different lighting situations. If you often shoot in low light, look for a camera with good high ISO performance.
Autofocus SystemThe autofocus (AF) system in a DSLR camera helps you achieve sharp focus on your subject. A more advanced AF system with more focus points and faster performance can make a significant difference, especially for action or wildlife photography. Entry-level DSLRs typically have fewer focus points, but they are still capable of capturing sharp images. If you plan to shoot fast-moving subjects, look for a camera with at least 9-11 focus points and good continuous autofocus performance.
Lens CompatibilityOne of the advantages of DSLR cameras is the ability to change lenses. Different lenses can dramatically change the way you capture images, from wide-angle landscapes to close-up portraits. When choosing a budget DSLR, consider the availability and cost of compatible lenses. Entry-level DSLRs often come with a kit lens, which is a good starting point. As you progress, you can invest in additional lenses to expand your creative possibilities.
Video CapabilitiesMany DSLR cameras offer video recording capabilities, which can be a great addition if you want to capture both photos and videos. Look for features like Full HD (1080p) or 4K resolution, as well as frame rates that suit your needs (e.g., 24fps for a cinematic look or 60fps for smooth motion). If video is important to you, also consider the camera's autofocus performance during video recording and the availability of external microphone inputs for better audio quality.
Build Quality and ErgonomicsThe build quality and ergonomics of a DSLR camera affect how comfortable it is to use. A well-built camera with a good grip and intuitive controls can make your shooting experience more enjoyable. Entry-level DSLRs are often made of plastic to keep costs down, but they should still feel solid and durable. Consider how the camera feels in your hands and whether the button layout is easy to navigate. If possible, try handling the camera in person before making a decision.
Battery LifeBattery life is an important consideration, especially if you plan to shoot for extended periods or while traveling. DSLR cameras generally have good battery life, but it can vary between models. Look for a camera that offers at least 500 shots per charge, which should be sufficient for most day-to-day shooting. If you anticipate needing more power, consider investing in a spare battery or a battery grip for extended use.
ConnectivityModern DSLR cameras often come with connectivity options like Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and NFC. These features allow you to transfer photos wirelessly to your smartphone or computer, making it easier to share your images on social media or back them up. Some cameras also offer remote control capabilities via a smartphone app, which can be useful for group shots or long exposures. If connectivity is important to you, look for a camera with these features.