Best Photography Camera Under $500: Top Picks for 2024

Photography is an art form that has been around for over a century, and it has evolved significantly over the years. With the rise of digital photography, it has become more accessible to people than ever before. Whether you’re a professional photographer or an amateur looking to capture memories, having the right camera is essential. In this article, we will be discussing the best photography cameras under $500.

When it comes to buying a camera, there are many factors to consider. The type of camera you choose will depend on your needs and preferences. Some people prefer point-and-shoot cameras for their simplicity, while others prefer DSLR cameras for their versatility. Factors like image quality, lens options, and ease of use are also important to consider.

When looking for the best photography camera under $500, it’s crucial to pay attention to the camera’s features and specifications. Some of the essential features to look for include image resolution, sensor size, autofocus capabilities, and video recording options. Additionally, it’s important to consider the camera’s size and weight, as well as its battery life and connectivity options.

In this article, we will be reviewing the top photography cameras under $500, taking into account their features, performance, and value for money. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced photographer, we’ve got you covered. So, without further ado, let’s dive in and find the perfect camera for you.

Best Photography Cameras Under $500

We understand that not everyone has the budget to splurge on high-end cameras, but that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best photography cameras under $500 that offer great features and performance without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a beginner or an enthusiast, these cameras are perfect for capturing those special moments and creating stunning images. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our top picks for the best photography cameras under $500.

Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm Lens

If you’re a beginner looking for a camera that offers the essential tools needed to take your SLR skills to new heights, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm Lens is a great option.

Pros

The 24.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor provides high-quality images even in low-light situations.
Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC technology make it easy to share your photos and videos.
The 9-Point AF system and AI Servo AF help you capture your subjects with precision.

Cons

The basic lens that comes with the camera doesn’t offer much zoom.
Some users have reported issues with the camera’s autofocus system.
The camera doesn’t have a touchscreen.

The Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm Lens is a great choice for beginners who want a camera that can take high-quality photos and videos. The 24.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor and wide ISO range of 100-6400 (H: 12800) allow you to capture stunning images in any lighting conditions. Plus, the built-in Wi-Fi and NFC technology make it easy to share your photos and videos with friends and family.

One potential downside of the camera is that the basic lens that comes with it doesn’t offer much zoom. This means that you may need to purchase additional lenses if you want to capture subjects that are farther away. Additionally, some users have reported issues with the camera’s autofocus system, which can be frustrating when trying to capture fast-moving subjects.

Despite these drawbacks, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm Lens is a solid choice for beginners looking for a camera that offers the essential tools needed to take their SLR skills to new heights.

Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ300K

If you’re looking for a high-quality camera that won’t break the bank, the Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ300K is an excellent choice.

Pros

With 4K video and 4K photo, you’ll never miss that perfect moment again.
The Leica DC Vario Elmarit lens offers 24x zoom and an F2.8 aperture for enhanced low light shooting.
The 5 Axis Hybrid Optical Image Stabilizer Plus reduces blur from one-handed video shooting.

Cons

The camera’s 12.1 Megapixel resolution may not be enough for some professional photographers.
The camera’s design is not as sleek or stylish as some other cameras on the market.
The camera’s autofocus can sometimes struggle in low light conditions.

This camera is perfect for hobby photographers who want to take high-quality photos and videos without breaking the bank. With its 4K video and 4K photo features, you’ll never miss that perfect moment again. The Leica DC Vario Elmarit lens offers 24x zoom and an F2.8 aperture for enhanced low light shooting, while the 5 Axis Hybrid Optical Image Stabilizer Plus reduces blur from one-handed video shooting.

If you’re a professional photographer, you may find the camera’s 12.1 Megapixel resolution to be a bit lacking. Additionally, the camera’s design is not as sleek or stylish as some other cameras on the market. Finally, the camera’s autofocus can sometimes struggle in low light conditions. However, if you’re looking for a high-quality camera at an affordable price, the Panasonic Lumix DMC FZ300K is an excellent choice.

Canon EOS R100 RF-S18-45mm F4.5-6.3 is STM Lens Kit

If you’re looking for an affordable camera that delivers high-quality images, the Canon EOS R100 RF-S18-45mm F4.5-6.3 is STM Lens Kit is a solid choice.

Pros

Compact and lightweight, making it easy to take on the go.
High image quality thanks to the 24.1 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor and DIGIC 8 processor.
Dual Pixel CMOS AF covering a wide area, up to 143 zones, with auto subject detection and Eye Detection AF available with Servo AF.

Cons

Continuous capture of up to 6.5 shots per second is decent but not the fastest on the market.
Some users may find the lack of a built-in viewfinder to be a drawback.
The camera doesn’t come with a lens or instruction book, which may be inconvenient for some users.

The Canon EOS R100 RF-S18-45mm F4.5-6.3 is STM Lens Kit is a compact and lightweight camera that’s built for mobility. Despite its small size, it delivers excellent image quality thanks to the 24.1 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor and DIGIC 8 processor. The Dual Pixel CMOS AF system covers a wide area, up to 143 zones, and offers auto subject detection and Eye Detection AF available with Servo AF.

One downside of the Canon EOS R100 RF-S18-45mm F4.5-6.3 is STM Lens Kit is its continuous capture speed. While it can capture up to 6.5 shots per second when set to One-Shot AF, this is not the fastest on the market. Additionally, some users may find the lack of a built-in viewfinder to be a drawback.

It’s also worth noting that the camera doesn’t come with a lens or instruction book. While it does come with a piece of paper for instructions, some users may find this to be inconvenient.

Overall, the Canon EOS R100 RF-S18-45mm F4.5-6.3 is STM Lens Kit is a solid choice for anyone looking for an affordable camera that delivers high-quality images. With its compact size and lightweight design, it’s easy to take on the go, making it a great option for travel or everyday use.

Canon EOS 2000D / Rebel T7 DSLR Camera

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly DSLR camera, the Canon EOS 2000D / Rebel T7 DSLR Camera is a great option.

Pros

Optical viewfinder for better framing of shots
Wi-Fi connectivity for easy sharing of photos and remote control
Comes with a 32GB memory card and other accessories

Cons

Only has 3x optical zoom
Limited autofocus points
No touch screen

The Canon EOS 2000D / Rebel T7 DSLR Camera is a pre-owned or refurbished product that has been professionally inspected and tested to work and look like new. It comes with a standard EF-S 18-55mm zoom lens and a SanDisk 32GB memory card, as well as other accessories.

One of the biggest advantages of this camera is its optical viewfinder, which allows for better framing of shots and more accurate focus. Additionally, the built-in Wi-Fi connectivity makes it easy to share photos and control the camera remotely using the Camera Connect app.

However, the camera does have some limitations. It only has a 3x optical zoom, which may not be sufficient for some types of photography. Additionally, it has a limited number of autofocus points, which can make it challenging to get sharp focus in certain situations. Finally, it does not have a touch screen, which some users may find inconvenient.

Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly DSLR camera that still offers good image quality and some advanced features, the Canon EOS 2000D / Rebel T7 DSLR Camera is definitely worth considering.

Canon EOS M50 Mark II + EF-M 15-45mm is STM Kit Black

If you’re a content creator looking for a versatile camera that can take high-quality photos and videos, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II + EF-M 15-45mm is STM Kit Black is a great option.

Pros

The 24.1 Megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC 8 image processor produce impressive image quality.
The autofocus is fast and accurate, with improved Eye Detection AF for recognizing eyes and faces further away.
The camera is versatile, with features like 4K UHD 24p and HD 120p for slow motion video, a Vari-angle touchscreen LCD, and clean HDMI output.

Cons

The camera is more expensive than some other options on the market.
Some users have reported difficulty with the camera’s Wi-Fi connection.
The camera’s battery life could be better.

The Canon EOS M50 Mark II + EF-M 15-45mm is STM Kit Black is a versatile camera that’s great for content creators. With its impressive image quality and fast autofocus, it’s easy to capture high-quality photos and videos. Plus, features like 4K UHD 24p and HD 120p for slow motion video, a Vari-angle touchscreen LCD, and clean HDMI output make it easy to get creative with your content.

In terms of cons, the camera is more expensive than some other options on the market. Additionally, some users have reported difficulty with the camera’s Wi-Fi connection, which could be frustrating for those who plan to use the camera for livestreaming or other online content creation. Finally, the camera’s battery life could be better, which might be a concern for those who plan to use it for extended periods of time without access to a power source.

Overall, however, the Canon EOS M50 Mark II + EF-M 15-45mm is STM Kit Black is a great camera for content creators who want to take their photography and videography to the next level.

Nikon D3500 W/ AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Black

If you’re looking for a DSLR camera that’s easy to use and takes great photos, the Nikon D3500 is worth considering.

Pros

Easy to use, even if you’ve never used a DSLR before
Compact and comfortable design makes it great for travel and special events
Image sensor is 15x larger than those used in typical smartphones, resulting in sharper, clearer pictures

Cons

Limited video capabilities, with only 1080p full HD videos and monaural sound
No touchscreen or articulating screen, which can make it difficult to take photos from certain angles
Limited autofocus points, which can make it difficult to capture fast-moving subjects

The Nikon D3500 is a great option for those who want a DSLR camera that’s easy to use and takes great photos. The compact and comfortable design makes it great for travel and special events, and the image sensor is 15x larger than those used in typical smartphones, resulting in sharper, clearer pictures. However, the limited video capabilities, with only 1080p full HD videos and monaural sound, may not be sufficient for those who want to shoot high-quality videos. Additionally, the lack of a touchscreen or articulating screen can make it difficult to take photos from certain angles, and the limited autofocus points can make it difficult to capture fast-moving subjects. Overall, if you’re looking for a DSLR camera that’s easy to use and takes great photos, the Nikon D3500 is a solid choice.

Canon EOS 4000D DSLR Camera Bundle

If you’re looking for a beginner’s DSLR camera with interchangeable lenses, the Canon EOS 4000D is a great option. With a 18 Megapixel APS-C sensor and the ability to shoot in low light, you can capture high-quality shots of people and places. The camera also comes with a bundle of accessories to enhance your photography experience.

Pros

The camera has interchangeable lenses, allowing you to expand your shooting options.
The 18 Megapixel APS-C sensor allows you to shoot in low light, capturing high-quality shots.
The camera comes with a bundle of accessories, including a tripod and memory card, to enhance your photography experience.

Cons

The camera’s autofocus system has only 9 points, which may not be enough for some users.
The camera’s LCD screen is small at only 6.8 cm (2.7 inches).
The camera does not have a built-in image stabilization system.

The Canon EOS 4000D is a great option for beginners who want to explore the world of interchangeable lens cameras. With its 18 Megapixel APS-C sensor, you can capture high-quality shots of people and places. The camera also comes with a bundle of accessories to enhance your photography experience.

The camera’s autofocus system has only 9 points, which may not be enough for some users. Additionally, the camera’s LCD screen is small at only 6.8 cm (2.7 inches), which may make it difficult to review your shots. Finally, the camera does not have a built-in image stabilization system, which may make it difficult to capture steady shots without a tripod.

Overall, if you’re looking for a beginner’s DSLR camera with interchangeable lenses, the Canon EOS 4000D is a great option. With its 18 Megapixel APS-C sensor and bundle of accessories, you can capture high-quality shots and enhance your photography experience.

Nikon COOLPIX B500 16MP 40x Optical Zoom Digital Camera with WiFi – Black (Renewed)

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly camera with a decent zoom, the Nikon COOLPIX B500 might be a good option for you.

Pros

The 40x optical zoom and 80x dynamic fine zoom allow you to get up close and personal with your subject.
Built-in Wi-Fi, NFC, and Bluetooth low energy (BLE) make it easy to transfer your photos and videos to your smartphone or tablet.
The tilting 3.0-inch 921,000-dot LCD display allows you to shoot from creative angles and review your creations with ease.

Cons

The camera struggles to find focus when zoomed in over halfway.
The battery life is not great and may require purchasing special batteries.
The tripod mount inside the camera is mixed with other materials that can easily strip it.

The Nikon COOLPIX B500 is a simple, easy-to-use camera that can help you capture your memories without breaking the bank. While it may not be the most advanced camera on the market, it gets the job done for those who want a basic point-and-shoot option.

Nikon D3400 DSLR Camera

If you’re looking for a great entry-level DSLR camera, the Nikon D3400 is a solid choice that won’t break the bank.

Pros

SnapBridge Bluetooth Connectivity
24.2MP DX Format CMOS Sensor
No Optical Low Pass Filter

Cons

No 4K video recording
Limited autofocus points
No touchscreen

The Nikon D3400’s SnapBridge feature allows for easy transfer of photos to your smartphone or tablet. With a 24.2MP sensor and no optical low pass filter, you can expect high-quality images. However, the camera lacks 4K video recording, has a limited number of autofocus points, and does not have a touchscreen.

The D3400 is designed to be compact and lightweight, making it easy to take with you on the go. The camera’s controls are smartly laid out for comfort and intuitive control, and the bright optical viewfinder provides a sharp, glare-free view of the world.

Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable and easy-to-use DSLR camera, the Nikon D3400 is a great option that won’t disappoint.

Canon EOS 2000D (Rebel T7) DSLR Camera

If you are looking for a high-quality photography camera, the Canon EOS 2000D DSLR Camera is a great option to consider.

Pros

The 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor captures stunning images with excellent detail and clarity.
The 9-Point AF with Center Cross-Type Point ensures accurate and fast focusing, even in low light conditions.
The Built-In Wi-Fi with NFC allows for easy sharing and transfer of photos and videos.

Cons

The camera’s video recording capabilities are limited to Full HD 1080/30p, which may not be sufficient for some users.
The maximum shooting speed of 3 fps may be too slow for capturing fast-moving action.
The camera body does not have built-in image stabilization, which may result in blurry images if the camera is not held steady.

The Canon EOS 2000D DSLR Camera is a great option for anyone looking for a high-quality camera under $500. With its 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor, this camera captures stunning images with excellent detail and clarity. The 9-Point AF with Center Cross-Type Point ensures accurate and fast focusing, even in low light conditions, making it easy to capture sharp and detailed photos.

One downside of this camera is its video recording capabilities, which are limited to Full HD 1080/30p. This may not be sufficient for users who want to capture high-quality video. Additionally, the maximum shooting speed of 3 fps may be too slow for capturing fast-moving action, such as sports or wildlife photography.

Despite these limitations, the Canon EOS 2000D DSLR Camera is a great option for anyone looking for a reliable and high-quality camera under $500. With its Built-In Wi-Fi with NFC, it is easy to share and transfer photos and videos. Overall, we highly recommend this camera for anyone looking for a great photography camera at an affordable price.

Buying Guide

When it comes to buying a photography camera under 500, there are several factors to consider. We want to make sure that you get the best camera for your money, so here are some features to look out for:

Sensor Size

The sensor size is one of the most important features to consider. A larger sensor will capture more light, resulting in better image quality, especially in low light situations. Look for cameras with APS-C or Micro Four Thirds sensors, which are commonly found in cameras under $500.

Megapixels

While megapixels aren’t the only factor that determines image quality, they are still important. A camera with higher megapixels will produce larger and more detailed images, which is great for printing or cropping. However, it’s important to remember that a higher megapixel count doesn’t always equal better image quality.

Lens Compatibility

Make sure to consider the lens compatibility of the camera you’re interested in. Some cameras have a fixed lens, while others allow for interchangeable lenses. Interchangeable lenses give you more flexibility and options for different types of photography, but they can also be more expensive.

Autofocus

Autofocus is crucial for capturing sharp and in-focus images. Look for cameras with fast and accurate autofocus systems, especially if you plan on taking action shots or portraits.

Video Quality

If you plan on using your camera for video as well, make sure to check the video quality. Look for cameras that can shoot at least 1080p at 30fps or higher for smooth and clear video footage.

By keeping these features in mind, you can find the best photography camera under $500 that suits your needs and preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some good photography cameras under $500?

There are several good photography cameras available under $500. Some of the best options include the Canon EOS Rebel T7, Nikon D3500, and Sony Alpha a6000.

What are the best budget cameras for wildlife photography?

For wildlife photography, it’s important to have a camera with a fast autofocus system and a long lens. Some good budget options include the Canon EOS Rebel T7i, Nikon D5600, and Sony Alpha a68.

What are some recommended cameras for YouTube videos under $500?

For YouTube videos, you’ll want a camera that can shoot high-quality video and has a flip-out screen for vlogging. Some good options under $500 include the Canon EOS M50, Panasonic Lumix G7, and Sony Alpha a5100.

Which cameras are popular among beginner photographers?

Beginner photographers often look for cameras that are easy to use and offer good image quality. Some popular options include the Canon EOS Rebel T7, Nikon D3500, and Sony Alpha a6000.

What are the top DSLR cameras available for $500?

Some of the top DSLR cameras available for $500 include the Canon EOS Rebel T7, Nikon D3500, and Pentax K-70.

What are the best cameras for photography on a tight budget?

If you’re on a tight budget, some good options include the Canon EOS Rebel T6, Nikon D3400, and Sony Alpha a5100. These cameras offer good image quality and are available at a lower price point.

Last Updated on December 6, 2023 by Zazoosh