Top 7 Cheap & Affordable DSLR Cameras

You might remember the guide on buying a digital camera, be it point-and-shoot or DSLR. I explained there what the different aspects of buying a digital camera, what features they offer and type of camera is suited for each user. If you are interested in digital photography, and you are interested in buying a DSLR camera, you might find the prices pretty high, some models even going to the $3000 mark. But don’t be afraid, as in all consumer products, you will find some cheaper, entry level models that go from $400 – $500. These cheap DSLR cameras might not have the performance of a high end DSLR, but they will get the job done.

Top 7 Cheap DSLR Cameras

DSLR cameras are more expensive than Point-and-Shoot cameras because they offer higher quality and many more features. The best way, in my opinion is to buy a used DSLR camera from eBay or Amazon for starters, and after you get the hang of it and learn to use it properly, then you should look for a new, better camera. If you are in the market for a cheap DSLR camera, you should search more stores and websites, because you might find deals or cheaper cameras. I have done that, and I’ve come up with a list of the cheapest entry level DSLR cameras. All of these DSLR cameras are in the $400 – $700 price range depending on where you find them.

1. Canon Rebel XS $352

Credit: KenRockwell.com
Canon is a big name in the photography business. They produce top of the line digital cameras, both DSLR and Point-And-Shoot and also, photo printers of the highest quality. The Rebel series from Canon are some of the cheapest DSLR cameras you will find, but despite that, they still have the quality and attention to detail Canon put in all their products. For an amateur photographer, the Rebel XS is a great camera. Try it and you will see what I’m talking about.

2. Nikon D3000 $400

Credit: dpreview.com
Nikon are better known for their high end models of DSLR cameras, but they also produce cheaper models, and, as the Canon cameras, they have a really good quality and can take some stunning pictures. There is an ongoing fight between Canon and Nikon, and both brands have advantages and disadvantages. All you need is some skill and this camera will become an extension of your arm. A great entry level DSLR camera for those who can’t afford its bigger brothers or who want to take learning digital photography slow and steady.

3. Canon EOS Rebel T3 $500

Rebel T3 is another cheap DSLR camera from Canon’s Rebel series. A series of entry level DSLRs targeted for those who are new in the digital photography world. This model is the precursor of the Rebel XS and so, it doesn’t have the same features, but nonetheless, I think it’s a good idea to evolve your skills rather then get scarred by all the features of your camera. A gradual learning is the best, and the Rebel T3 provides basic features at moderate quality.

4. Nikon D3100 $600

A good example of Nikon’s expertise in digital cameras is the D3100. This entry level DSLR camera provides excellent quality and lots of features all amateurs in photography must learn. And what better platform than the Nikon D3100. A great DSLR that could satisfy even professional photographers. I highly recommend this DSLR for anyone who takes photography seriously.

5. Canon EOS Rebel T2i $580

You can really tell I like the Rebel series, but how can I not? The T2i has excellent picture quality for its price. A host of features are available for its users, although the menu is a bit hard to read. But that is something you can get around. For it’s quality and features, the Canon Rebel T2i is a really good priced DSLR camera.

6. Sony Alpha A390 $500

Sony has its first name in this list, and the Sony Alpha A390 is the one I’m talking about. This DSLR camera has a 14Mpx sensor and a great design. Another cool feature is the great video capture capability. The Alpha A390 is a great DSLR camera for any newbie to the art of photography, and it makes a good learning camera.

7. Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3 $650

An entry level cheap DSLR from Panasonic that is great! It’s not that expensive, and it can shoot HD video, it has a touchscreen display and its sensor is 12 MP, to name just a few of its features. It feels like a sturdy made camera and it fits great in your hand. I recommend this camera for anyone who want to make a hobby out of photography.
Remember that these cheap DSLR cameras can still be useful later on, with the addition of lenses, filters and other gear. They are quite expensive for some of us, so when you decide to buy one, you have to be certain that you will pursue this hobby, but in comparison to the other DSLR cameras, these are the cheapest models you can find. They all have great features for amateur photographers and they can be your launching pad into digital photography. So keep them in mind in your search for the best entry level DSLR camera.