10 Best Cheap Dslr Cameras 2025 in the United States

The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is a solid entry-level DSLR camera that appeals especially to photography beginners and hobbyists. With a 24.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor and an ISO range of 100 to 6400 (expandable to 12800), it delivers decent image quality in a variety of lighting conditions. The inclusion of built-in Wi-Fi is great for easy sharing of photos, and the camera is compatible with Canon EF and EF-S lenses, providing flexibility for future upgrades.

The 9-point autofocus system is adequate for most situations, although it may feel limited compared to higher-end models with more points and advanced tracking capabilities. Continuous shooting at 3 frames per second is a bit on the slower side, which might not satisfy those interested in fast-action photography. For video, it supports Full HD recording, but lacks advanced features like 4K, which is common in more current cameras.

Build quality is typical for a budget DSLR; it feels sturdy but not overly robust. The optical viewfinder offers about 95% coverage, which is decent, but you might miss the final details in framing your shots. Ergonomically, the camera is user-friendly, making it easy to navigate through settings, even for newcomers. A drawback is its lack of weather sealing, which limits outdoor use in less-than-ideal conditions. Battery life is respectable, estimated at around 500 shots, but as with any camera, using Wi-Fi and video features can drain the battery faster.

The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 is a solid choice for beginners and photography enthusiasts looking for a budget-friendly DSLR. With its APS-C sensor size and 24.1 megapixels, it delivers high-resolution images, making it great for capturing detail in your photos. The camera's ISO range of 100 to 25,600 allows for decent performance in various lighting conditions, although very low-light situations may still present challenges. One of the standout features is its Dual Pixel Autofocus system, which offers fast and accurate focusing, particularly beneficial for those who want to shoot moving subjects or capture video.

In terms of continuous shooting speed, the Rebel SL3 can shoot at about 5 frames per second, which is reasonable for casual photography but may fall short for action-heavy scenarios, like sports photography. Speaking of video, it supports 4K video recording, which is impressive for a camera in this price range, allowing users to create high-quality videos.

The build quality is decent, providing a comfortable grip thanks to its ergonomic design. The 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen is a great addition for vlogging or capturing creative angles. However, it’s worth noting that the camera is somewhat lightweight, which might not feel as sturdy as higher-end models. Also, lens compatibility is limited primarily to Canon EF-S lenses, which could be a concern for users looking to expand their lens collection. One minor drawback is the lack of in-body image stabilization, which can be problematic for handheld shooting in lower light without a stabilized lens. Additionally, while the camera does have built-in Wi-Fi, the setup can be a bit tricky for some users.

The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 is a fantastic entry-level DSLR that offers impressive features for its price, particularly for those interested in photography and video. It's best suited for beginners or casual photographers who want to explore their creative side without breaking the bank.

The Nikon D850 is a full-frame DSLR with a large 45.7-megapixel sensor, offering exceptionally detailed photos and excellent dynamic range. Its ISO range extends up to 102,400, allowing good performance in low light. The autofocus system is advanced, featuring 153 focus points with phase detection that help capture sharp images quickly. It can shoot continuously at 9 frames per second, which is fast for a DSLR and useful for action photography. Video capabilities are strong, including 4K Ultra HD recording and slow motion up to 120 frames per second at 1080p, making it versatile for videography.

The build quality is robust and weather-sealed, plus a tilting touchscreen adds convenience for composing shots from different angles. Lens compatibility is excellent, supporting a wide range of Nikon FX and DX mount lenses. However, the D850 is a professional-grade camera and comes with a higher price tag, which might exceed the budget of those seeking a cheap DSLR. Its high resolution also means larger file sizes that require more storage and processing power.

Not the lightest model, its ergonomic design helps with handling during extended use. The Nikon D850 delivers outstanding image quality and features that surpass basic needs, making it ideal for serious enthusiasts or professionals rather than casual or beginner users searching for an inexpensive option.