The Best Digital SLR Camera for beginners 2021: 9 affordable model for new users

If you are starting to take photos and are looking for the best digital SLR camera for beginners, this guide is for you. We have reviewed and ranked the best low-cost SLR cameras in all price ranges. So whether you’re changing cameras, buying a brand new one, or trying out the benefits of a SLR camera, you’ll find great candidates below.

While smartphones and mirrorless cameras bring the joys of photography to a wider awareness, digital SLRs provide an even more individualized experience for novice photographers. Their larger cells and interchangeable lenses make them significantly better and more versatile than any smartphone. They also have better battery life, adjustment, and shooting functions than most mirrorless models. These are also the only ones with fully optical viewfinders.

All SLRs offer plenty of options for customization for first-timers, but low-cost models like the Canon EOS 8000D and the successor EOS 850D have less advanced features and a slightly slower focus and burst. Indeed, better performance will cost significantly more as models move to higher quality individuals such as the Canon EOS 90D. Most of its functions are also left untapped by beginners.

In addition, many manufacturers have become increasingly focused on mirrorless models. Canon discontinued its low-cost 7D series after just two models, while the availability of the much-anticipated EOS 850D has been low during a pandemic.

Fortunately, there are still numerous options available for beginners. Canon and Nikon both have a comprehensive range of affordable SLR cameras and lenses for use. In addition to the two, the list below also covers other models as well as a few older individuals that still offer excellent value for money. We believe most of the list below will find just the right model for you.

Choose the best camera for you

The supply of cameras has shrunk in recent years - fewer new models are coming, and few new products will remain on store shelves longer before a new version is launched.

One would think that the choice would thus be even easier, but the declining number of models has led to a situation where only a few camera types dominate the whole market. The features are similar in many, even if the manufacturer is different.

Image quality, which is the most important criterion for most buyers when choosing a new camera, is better than good in almost all cameras sold today. This is especially true for SLRs, both mirrorless and mirrorless, which, regardless of the manufacturer, offer such good image quality that a highly trained eye is required to notice qualitative differences.

Thus, other features of the cameras play a more important role. How well does autofocus work? Can the camera maintain a high shutter speed for two seconds or two minutes? Is the device resistant to water and dust? Is a bright telephoto lens available for the camera? Does the video work well? And so on.

The easiest way is to read the tests and find out if there is a camera that is best suited for your own use. A photographer who crawls among the undergrowth to capture immortal moments of nature needs quite different qualities than parents who want to photograph their offspring.

The best camera depends very much on your own needs. Many needs can be met with a cell phone camera, but they still have their limitations that make many end up buying a decent camera. The right camera still offers better image quality and more options.

Before we get to the best cameras of the year, let’s go through a few more basic things about choosing the right device.

The best digital SLR cameras for beginners in 2021

1. Nikon D3500

2. Canon EOS 850D

3. Nikon D5600

4. Canon 90D

5. Canon EOS 2000D

6. Canon EOS 250D

7. Canon EOS 4000D

8. Pentax K-70

9. Canon EOS 80D

1. Nikon D3500

Nikon hasn’t released any new digital SLRs for beginners during 2019, but the D3500 is still a great option for new photographers. The newer D3500 includes much of the same features as its predecessor, but offers a few practical additional features.

The camera's battery is now enough to charge 1,550 images on a single charge, which is significantly more than the average rogue. The feel of the hand is also more pleasant and makes using the camera easier.

The new 24.2 megapixel sensor produces extremely detailed images. Despite its advanced features, the D3500 is easy to use and its intelligent guide mode provides clear and real-time guidance when shooting. The camera is great for more creative photography. If you are a beginner, you are sure to fall in love with this frame!

• • Cell: APS-C CMOS
• • Resolution: 24.2 MP
• • Lens Mount: Nikon DX
• • Display: 3-inch, 921,000 dots
• • Continuous shooting speed: 5 fps
• • Video: 1080 p
• • User level: Beginner

VIEW ON AMAZON

2. Canon EOS 850D

The Canon EOS 850D has officially taken the place of its predecessor, the EOS 800D, at this location. The new model is not a significant improvement over its predecessor, as the most important innovation is 4K video recording with limited frame rate. Still, the EOS 850D is one of our favorite cameras for the beginner.

The camera has Dual Pixel autofocus, which works quickly and reliably in light and video shooting. The buttons are set to be user-friendly on the camera, in addition to which the partially foldable LCD screen also works well. If you don’t need advertised 4K video that cracks the image and has lower autofocus than when shooting, the EOS 850D is a great option for beginners.

• • Cell: APS-C CMOS
• • Resolution: 24.1 MP Lens mount: Canon EF-S
• • Display: 3 - inch folding touch screen, 1,040,000 dots Continuous shooting: 7 fps Video: 4K
• • User level: Beginner / hobbyist

VIEW ON AMAZON

3. Nikon D5600

The D5600 is Nikon’s competitor to Canon’s similar EOS 800D (ranked 3rd). Where Nikon’s D3000 series cameras are specifically designed for the cheap price above, these manufacturers ’D5000 series models are a degree more advanced.

The D5600 offers a large 3.2-inch swivel LCD touch screen, a more advanced autofocus system, Wi-Fi connectivity and additional management features. You’ll have to shell out a little more for all of this, but if you’re looking for “room for growth” from your camera, the D5600 is a sensible investment.

• • Cell: APS-C CMOS
• • Resolution: 24.2 MP
• • Lens Mount: Nikon DX
• • Display: 3.2-inch swivel touch screen, 1,040,000 dots
• • Continuous shooting speed: 5 fps
• • Video: 1080 p
• • User level: Beginner / enthusiast

VIEW ON AMAZON

4. Canon EOS 90D

The Canon 90D may be its manufacturer’s last digital SLR for beginners ever. If Canon stops making entry-level SLR cameras, the 90D will be a real hit. The versatile camera includes a high-resolution viewfinder that, in conjunction with Canon’s Digic 8 image processor, delivers high-quality unlimited 4K video at 30p frame rate.

Color reproduction is first-class, and both photos and videos are extremely accurate and detailed thanks to the new 216-section infrared sensor - although noise can be a problem when going over ISO 8000.

The deeper handle and joystick for easy focus point selection make the 90D comfortable to handle. There is also a focus on battery life: one charge is enough to snap 1,500 frames. It should be noted, however, that the 90D is both unnecessarily expensive and advanced for the beginner. Still, growth potential may not be a bad thing at all. The 90D proves that digital SLRs still have a place in the mirror-free camera market.

• • Cell: APS-C CMOS
• • Resolution: 32.5 MP
• • Lens mount: EF / EF-S
• • Display: 3-inch swivel touch screen, 1,040,000 dots
• • Continuous shooting speed: 11 fps
• • Video: 4K / 30p
• • User level: Beginner / enthusiast

VIEW ON AMAZON

5. Canon EOS 2000D

with extra pennies to accumulate a comprehensive range of lenses.

While the EOS 2000D doesn’t have all the same state-of-the-art features as Canon’s more expensive models, its features are great for the beginner. The camera includes Wi-Fi connectivity and built-in NFC technology, which allows you to transfer and share photos to social media effortlessly via your smartphone.

The EOS 2000D is one of Canon's most affordable SLR cameras. Because the body itself is so cost-effective, the selector of this camera is left The 24.1 megapixel sensor produces valid photos, and a handy Feature Guide will guide you through the camera when needed. Battery life is also better than many mirrorless models in the same Price Range. So I can say that the 2000D is a versatile option for the beginner.

• • Cell: APS-C CMOS
• • Resolution: 24.1 MP
• • Lens mount: Canon EF-S
• • Display: 3-inch, 920,000 dots
• • Continuous shooting speed: 3 fps
• • Video: 1080 p
• • User level: Beginner

VIEW ON AMAZON

6. Canon EOS 250D

The latest addition to our list, the Canon EOS 250D, is the smallest and cheapest digital SLR camera on the market, according to its manufacturer. The model also happens to be the cheapest rider that records 4K video and offers external microphone connections. The video quality, on the other hand, doesn’t end up dizzying, as the image in 4K video is bored.

Plus points are boosted by Canon's excellent Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus system and responsive touch screen for fast and effortless image browsing. Unfortunately, Canon has retained the same 9-point autofocus system in the EOS 250D as in the previous EOS 200D. However, the versatility and reasonable price of the EOS 250D put it at 5th on our list.

• • Cell: APS-C CMOS
• • Resolution: 24.1 MP
• • Lens mount: Canon EF-S
• • Display: 3-inch swivel touch screen, 1,040,000 dots
• • Continuous shooting speed: 5 fps
• • Video: 4K
• • User level: Beginner

VIEW ON AMAZON

7. Canon EOS EOS 4000D

If you’re looking for your first SLR camera, you may not need a camera that has all the goodies. And if you’re looking for some affordable base model, then the Canon 4000D is probably your choice.

Admittedly, the 4000D has many features that seem very outdated compared to the latest model. The 18-megapixel sensor and DIGIC 4+ processor are both obsolete, as is the 9-point focus that Canon first introduced back in 2009. The 2.7-inch LCD screen is also poor and the Live View screen could work more vividly. The structure also feels cheap.

In return, the camera keys are well placed for novice photographers, the battery lasts for about 500 images and the image quality is high quality. For those upgrading from a smartphone to a decent camera, there are already enough improvements here, as the images are much more detailed and the saturation is good. For more experienced graphs, the 4000D, on the other hand, feels like a remnant of a past left out by obsolete components and limited functionality. But if you’re looking specifically for an affordable alternative, here’s one good model worth considering.

• • Cell: APS-C CMOS
• • Resolution: 18 MP
• • Lens mount: Canon EF / EF-S
• • Display: 2.7-inch, 230,000 dots
• • Continuous shooting speed: 3 fps
• • Video: 1080p
• • User level: Beginner

VIEW ON AMAZON

8. Pentax K-70

Although the Pentax K-70 is already a few years old, it is still a good option for those who also qualify for cameras other than the two largest SLR manufacturers. You can get the most out of your camera if you already have old Pentax lenses in your basement.

The K-70 has a practical swivel display, and the viewfinder is especially useful because of the live view autofocus system. However, the best thing about this camera is its durability. Few beginner-oriented cameras are weatherproof and equally robust in body. Landscape and nature photographers in particular appreciate that the camera is not destroyed in worse weather conditions.

A slight disappointment instead is the kit lens that comes with the camera. Although the lens has a slightly longer focal length than many of the other kit lenses in our guide, the catalog it describes is not always the sharpest and most detailed of all.

• • Cell: APS-C CMOS
• • Resolution: 24.2 MP
• • Lens mount: Pentax K
• • Display: 3-inch, 921,000 dots
• • Continuous shooting speed: 6 fps
• • Video: Full HD
• • User level: Beginner

VIEW ON AMAZON

9. Canon EOS 80D

The top model in Canon’s low-cost models, the EOS 80D, is the company’s older cameras, which have been available since 2016. Despite this, it is one of the most advanced cameras for the beginner, thanks to comprehensive features and components such as a 24.2 megapixel sensor and 45-point focus.

The menus are also easy to use, and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth help you transfer files wirelessly. However, the included lens leaves the edges of the images a little soft, so we recommend buying the body only and a better lens separately.

• • Cell: APS-C CMOS
• • Resolution: 24 MP
• • Lens mount: Canon EF-S
• • Display: 3 inches, 1,040K dots Continuous shooting speed: 7 fps Video: 1080p
• • User level: Beginner

VIEW ON AMAZON

Buying Guide: Check these things before Buying A New Camera

When you buy a new camera, you need to figure out many features and functions. We made a list of the most important things to consider. Feel free to first take a look at camera tests and product reviews, for example in the Digital Image Tool Guide , you will see what experienced professionals have said about the models that interest you.People’s camera needs are different, but there are a few basic things to at least pay attention to when considering stores.

1. Image sensor size

The size of the image sensor is the single technical factor that most affects image quality.The image sensor captures light, as the film did on analog cameras in decades ago.The cells of cheaper compact cameras and smartphones are smaller than the claw of a little dragonfly, while the cells of full-size cameras are the size of a large stamp, so it can collect much more light and image information.

2. Number of focus points

Some cameras have thousands of focus points, but whether they are 50 or 5,000 is not as essential as one might think in light of the numbers. The important thing is that they are evenly distributed over the image area so that the camera can focus even if the subject is at the edge or at an angle. Focus points usually fill a larger portion of the image area when shooting through the screen than when shooting through the optical viewfindr. Focusing is faster when shooting through the viewfinder.

3. Burst speed

Continuous shooting speed refers to how many frames per second the camera can take.For landscape and building photographers and portraits, this is not particularly important, but for sports and bird photographers, for example, it is a good thing if the burst speed is at least ten frames per second.

4. Battery life

The better the battery life, the better - then the risk of losing a good shooting situation in the event of a power outage is reduced. In practice, however, one charge gets more dry than promised in the operating instructions.The operating instructions usually describe a shooting method in which the camera is turned off and on often, and e.g. flash. Video recording, of course, consumes battery power briskly.If the indicated number of shots on a single charge is less than 400, we recommend purchasing a spare battery if there is a lot to shoot in one shooting trip.

5. ISO sensitivity

At high ISO values, you can shoot in low light without shaking the images and showing too much movement. As the ISO sensitivity is increased, the image signal from the cell is amplified, and at the same time the image noise is increased.Some cameras have the option of using six- or seven-digit ISO values, although this may not tell you much about how good or better bad results are obtained at the highest ISO sensitivities.However, a high maximum value can be an indication that medium values ​​such as ISO 25 600 or 51 200 still produce quite valid images.We do not usually exceed ISO 12,800 to ensure that the image quality is always good enough.

6. Display

Today, the size of a liquid crystal display (LCD) is usually 3 to 3.2 inches. Screen accuracy is at least as important. It should preferably have at least a million dots so that the image it reproduces does not pixelate.It’s also at least a good thing if the screen turns in different directions. This makes it much easier to shoot, for example, overhead or on the ground.

7. Ergonomics

You should try the camera at a store, if at all possible. Only then do you feel how it feels in your hands - even when you have a lens attached to it.At the same time, check how conveniently the main controls and buttons are positioned.

8. Resolution

Camera resolution was still a hot topic of discussion a few years ago, but today most cameras have a resolution of at least 12 megapixels, images are always repeated in detail unless printed on paper and enlarged to poster size.The 4K screen is equivalent to 8.3 megapixels, and the 17 megapixel image can already be magnified into a high-quality A3 poster without any worries. The high resolution also allows for severe cropping and partial enlargements.

9. Camera system

When purchasing a SLR camera, you should consider the composition of the included accessories such as a lens, flash unit, etc. - in relation to what you already have.Some systems include, for example, special lenses.It may also be that your old lenses are accessing your new camera through an adapter.

10. Weather protection

You should also consider whether you want a weatherproof model with joints that are all sealed so that water and dust cannot get in.Most cameras can withstand a small cloud of dust and morning fog, but if you want to shoot in heavy rain or at the seaside, you should get a fully weatherproof camera.Digital image number 10/2019 contains a large camera guide that brings together all the SLR cameras on the market.

11. The smart light tent guarantees perfect light and sharp images

With the digital photo tent, you get a nice little home studio that is also easy to take with you anywhere.The new light tent makes it easier than ever to photograph macro objects such as flowers and insects or food and goods that are to be sold over the internet.The uniform background of the light tent gives your images a professional look, and its LED lamps illuminate the images perfectly without shadows or reflections.