When searching for an inexpensive camera, it’s crucial to select one that suits your budget and requirements. Fortunately, any modern digital camera can produce excellent images when handled correctly, but the cost of cameras can quickly become prohibitive. If you’re determined to buy brand new, that’s not even considering the additional cost of lenses and accessories such as memory cards and camera bags.
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These cameras are budget-friendly, excel in both photography and videography, and cater to different needs and experience levels:
Canon EOS R100
This camera is considered to be the best overall choice for beginners and is affordable. The most affordable new mirrorless camera has a 24MP APS-C sensor, reliable dual-pixel autofocus, and decent image quality. In spite of this, it lacks a touchscreen and advanced video features.
Specifications:
- Sensor size: APS-C CMOS
- Resolution: 24MP
- Monitor: 3-inch fixed, 1.04m dots
- Viewfinder: 2.36m dots, 0.39-inch OLED
- Maximum continuous shooting rate: 6.5fps
- Movies: 4K
- User level: Beginner
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
This is a flexible Micro Four Thirds alternative that features a 20.3MP sensor, 5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS), for smooth photos and videos, and a flip-down screen. For dedicated videographers, the absence of a microphone input could be a drawback.
Specifications:
- Sensor: 20.3MP
- Type: Mirrorless
- Lens mount: Micro Four Thirds
- Continuous shooting: 15fps
- Viewfinder: 2.36m-dot EVF
- Movies: 4K/30p
- User level: Beginner
Akaso Brave 8 Lite
The AKASO Brave 8 Lite is an action camera that captures 4K video and 20MP photos, and is intended for users who are looking for a cheaper alternative to high-end models like GoPros.
Specifications:
- Stills resolution: 20MP
- Weight: 4oz / 114g
- 4K video: up to 30fps
- 1080 video: up to 240fps
- Waterproof: 33ft / 10m
- Battery life: 150 mins (for 1080p video)
DJI Osmo Pocket 3
The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is a lightweight camera that’s perfect for content creators and vloggers, with a combination of portability, advanced features, and impressive imaging capabilities.
Specifications:
- Sensor: 1-inch CMOS
- Type: Gimbal
- Max photo resolution: 3648 x 2736px
- Screen: 2-inch rotating screen
- FOV/focal length: 20mm
- Movies: Up to 4K 120fps
- User level: Beginner
Nikon D3500
The Nikon D3500 is an entry-level DSLR camera renowned for its ease of use, excellent image quality, and impressive battery life, making it a popular choice, particularly among beginner photographers.
Specifications:
- Sensor: APS-C CMOS, 24.2MP
- Type: DSLR
- Screen: 3-inch, 921K dots
- Lens mount: Nikon F
- Continuous shooting: 5fps
- Viewfinder: Optical
- Movies: 1080p
- User level: Beginner
Canon EOS RP
The Canon EOS RP, a full-frame mirrorless camera that was released in March 2019, is an affordable entry-level option. Due to its compact and lightweight body, it is a portable option for photographers who want high-quality full-frame images without the bulk of traditional DSLRs.
Specifications:
- Resolution: 26.2MP
- Sensor size: Full-frame CMOS
- Lens mount: Canon RF
- Viewfinder: EVF OLED, 2,360K dots
- Monitor: 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen, 1,040K dots
- Movies: 4K
- Max continuous shooting: 5fps
- User level: Beginner
Conclusion
The list above contains a variety of cameras that are suitable for photographers with a limited budget. The best option for you will depend on what you intend to use your camera for and its versatility.