Trying to find the best DSLR camera for beginners? There are a lot of strong contenders out there, but our in-depth guide has the answer.
(Want a broader look at the best beginner cameras? Check out our separate buying guide on that, which covers all types of entry-level cameras, including mirrorless).
Whether you’re looking to buy your first ‘proper’ camera or are upgrading from an older point-and-shoot, we’ve tested all of the best entry-level DSLR options – and ranked them in our regularly updated list below.
The camera world has moved towards mirrorless tech in recent years, but there’s still very much a place for the DSLR.
These cameras remain the cheapest way to get a built-in viewfinder, and continue to hold advantages in areas like handling and battery life, compared to their newer mirrorless siblings.
With large sensors and interchangeable lenses, even basic DSLR cameras will eclipse smartphones and compacts on image quality and versatility.
And with ergonomic handling, lots of manual controls and fantastic battery lives. The best beginner DSLRs are both accessible and reliable for new shooters. Plus they remain the only format to feature true optical viewfinders.
Many manufacturers are now focusing solely on launching mirrorless cameras. For example, Canon cancelled its 7D line of DSLRs last year. But that doesn’t mean the DSLR format is dead.
Both Canon and Nikon continue to offer a wide range of entry-level DSLR models, with extensive lens catalogues to match.
And with fewer fresh models hitting the shelves, beginners will find usually find the best value in slightly older options like the Canon EOS 80D and Nikon D5600.
These might not offer cutting-edge technology, but they tick most of the important boxes for beginners, without breaking the bank.
For this reason, we’ve included both current and older models in our guide below. What’s the best beginner DSLR you can buy right now? Our top pick is the Nikon D3500.
This first launched back in 2018, but is still an outstanding entry-level option. It might lack the advanced features and superlative performance of more expensive rivals. But it also delivers a competent combination of stellar image quality, novice-friendly features and value.
That said, there might be a beginner DSLR that’s better suited to your specific needs and budget. If you’re unlikely to be shooting video. For example, you might find that an older, stills-focused model like the Nikon D5300 or Canon EOS Rebel T7i / 800D might offer the best value.
We’ve tested a whole range of the latest and greatest beginner DSLR cameras and the recommendations in this buying guide are intended to cover every budget. Shooting style and requirement. Read to the end and you’re sure to find your ideal option.
The Finest DSLR Camera for new Youtubers and Photographers
If you’re feeling frustrated by the limitations of your smartphone camera or if you’ve always wanted to advance your photography prowess. A beginner DSLR could be just the ticket.
The Nikon D3500 is our pick for the best DSLR camera for novice photographers. Because it offers outstanding image quality for its price and a truly useful Guide Mode. That helps you learn along the way.
It boasts excellent battery life, easy smartphone connectivity. 1080/60p video with silent autofocus, and intuitive controls in a highly portable and lightweight body.
1. Nikon D3500 – Best DSLR Camera For Beginners
Not the flashiest camera here, but we reckon it’s the best right now
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Nikon may not have announced any new entry-level DSLRs for a while. But the D3500 remains an excellent option for those 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.
You can keep going for 1,550 images between charges. Which is way ahead of most other DSLRs, while the 24MP sensor delivers excellent image quality.
Nikon has also revised the body and control layout. Not only to make it nicer to handle but easier to use too.
While the Guide Mode 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 love it – and if you’re just getting started, we reckon you will too.
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2. Canon EOS Rebel T8i / Canon EOS 850D-
A fine but modest upgrade from its predecessor
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The Canon EOS Rebel T8i (know as the EOS 850D outside the US) has now officially taken the baton from its Rebel T7i / EOS 800D predecessor, with stock of the latter tricky to find.
This new model isn’t a huge upgrade. With the most notable addition being a 4K video mode that’s somewhat 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 is fast, reliable and works just as well for video as it does stills. 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 fantastic option for anyone who is starting a photography hobby and prizes DSLR advantages like battery life and handling.
3. Canon EOS 80D – Best DSLR Camera For Beginners
A classic that never grows old
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There’s no doubt that the newer Canon EOS 90D (below). Which is the EOS 80D’s successor, is the superior all-round DSLR in terms of power and features.
But the EOS 80D currently sits higher in this list due to the impressive value it offers. Right now, you can find it for almost half the price of its newer sibling.
And despite coming out in 2016, it’s still a very capable camera for beginners. For a start, the combination of a 24.2MP sensor and 45-point autofocus system ensure you get reliably good photos and focusing.
There’s a guided menu system that’s easy to navigate. And on-board Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to transfer images wirelessly if needed.
The only downside is that the 80D’s kit lens is a tad soft around the edges. So we’d recommend buying the body only and a better lens separately.
4. Canon EOS 90D – Best DSLR Camera For Beginners
A feature-packed all-rounder that gives you lots of room to grow
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The Canon 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.
Color reproduction is superb and there’s plenty of detail in both stills and video. Aided by a new 216-zone metering system (even if noise can be an issue above ISO 8000).
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A deeper grip means the 90D is also really comfortable in the hand. While a joystick makes selecting from the Dual Pixel CMOS AF points a cinch.
Battery life is a boon, too, with 1,500 shots possible on a single charge. 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 have a place in the mirrorless world.
5. Nikon D5300 – Best DSLR Camera For Beginners
An older option that still has lots to offer the beginner
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The oldest DSLR in this list, the Nikon D5300 first arrived in 2013.
Despite its grey hair, this formerly mid-range camera now has a entry-level price and still has plenty to offer the beginner photographer.
For a start, the 24.2MP sensor still performs very well. With its lack of a low-pass filter ensuring its captures plenty of detail, while the 39-point AF system remains reliable as long there’s plenty of available light.
Unusually for a DSLR that’s this old, the D5300 also has a vari-angle screen. Which is handy if you like to compose via Live View rather than the optical viewfinder.
Admittedly, AF performance in Live View lags a long way behind its mirrorless rivals. But if you want a classic shooting experience, the D5300 remains a good buy at today’s lower prices.
What should you look for when buying a beginner DSLR Camera?
There are three main factors to consider when buying a beginner-friendly DSLR:
- 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 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 vlogging 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: 10 key differences 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 picked the Best DSLR Camera for Beginners
We spent hours researching DSLRs that had been identified as top budget picks by the top photography sites in the world—
- DxOMark,
- DPReview,
- Photography Blog,
- CNET, and more.
We also pored over customer reviews on Amazon, B&H, Adorama, and other top retailers, and we drew on our own years of experience with trends in photography.
An entry-level DSLR has to be able to do a lot these days. Here are some of the things we looked for:
Excellent image quality:
Images should be sharp and clear (even when shot in low light). Have accurate-looking colors, and have a wide dynamic range. (so that you can see detail across your image. In both the darkest shadows and brightest highlights).
Easy to use:
Even someone who has never tried a complex camera before should be able to quickly learn how to handle it.
The best beginner DSLRs have some explanation of camera shooting modes and other features built in so that you can learn as you explore the menus and modes.
Manual controls:
You’ll probably start out using your DSLR like a point-and-shoot in fully automatic mode. But the camera should have manual controls so you can step up to using them as you improve your skills.
Smartphone connectivity:
You should be able to connect your camera and your smartphone so you can transfer images off the camera and share them with friends online quickly.
Long battery life:
Most beginner-level DSLRs don’t have the best battery life, so you’ll end up having to carry an extra battery or two. We favored cameras that can last longer than 1,000 shots between charges.
Portable:
If a camera is too large or too heavy, you won’t be inclined to take it with you. We looked to keep the camera size smaller than 5 inches wide and the weight to about a pound.
The Competition DSLR Camera For Beginners
Our previous upgrade pick, Canon’s EOS Rebel T7i, hasn’t dropped much in price, and though it offers a more effective Dual Pixel autofocus system, we think the SL3 offers a better value in this category.
The Canon Rebel SL3 also has significantly better battery life at 1,070 images per charge versus 600 from the T7i, and it’s smaller and lighter, making it all the more portable.
Canon’s Rebel SL2
Is the Nikon D3500 camera’s closest competitor in scale, but it still outweighs our pick when paired with a comparable kit lens.
Its Feature Assistant suggestions can’t compete with the dedicated Guide Mode instructions the D3500 provides, giving our top pick an advantage in both portability and accessibility.
The Canon’s outdated nine-point autofocusing system may also hinder your ability to find focus quickly when shooting through the viewfinder. For a better beginner experience (at a better price), the Nikon D3500 beats out the SL2.
We also considered older Canon models, such as the EOS Rebel T6i and T5i, as well as the SL2, but the newer features and handling of the SL3 pushed it to the top of our list.
Nikon’s D5600 – Best DSLR Camera For Beginners
Offers a few more features than our top pick. Like a fully rotating, higher-resolution LCD screen and a much better 39-point autofocus system.
But it can’t compare with the value of the D3500 or the 4K video capabilities of the lower cost Canon Rebel SL3.
We considered but did not test Pentax’s K-70. Its control system is geared toward more-advanced shooters.
And in DPReview’s test of the camera Samuel Spencer notes that the AF system. Especially during continuous AF and tracking AF—is disappointing. Also, at 1½ pound, it’s on the heavy side, and its battery life of 410 shots per charge is lackluster.
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