7 Best Photography Cameras for Beginners Cheap in 2025 (Ranked)
Ready to jump into the incredible world of photography but worried about the price tag. You’re in the right place. Finding the best photography cameras for beginners that are cheap and effective can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack, but it’s totally possible. The secret is knowing what to look for and where to find the hidden gems that deliver amazing quality without emptying your wallet.
Forget the idea that you need to spend thousands to get started—some of the most capable and fun cameras are incredibly affordable.
This guide is your ultimate roadmap to finding that perfect first camera. We’re going to break down everything from the different camera types to the key features that actually matter for a new photographer. We’ll review the top budget-friendly models on the market right now, helping you make a choice you’ll be excited about. Let’s get you behind the lens and capturing stunning photos!
What to Know
- Mirrorless is the Future: For most beginners, a mirrorless camera offers the best balance of modern features like excellent autofocus, compact size, and electronic viewfinders, making it easier to see your final shot before you take it.
- Don’t Obsess Over Megapixels: Anything over 20 megapixels is more than enough for a beginner. Focus instead on features like sensor size, autofocus performance, and the availability of affordable lenses.
- The Used Market is Your Best Friend: You can get incredible value by buying a slightly older, used camera model from a reputable seller. This often allows you to get a more powerful camera for the same price as a new entry-level one.
- Lenses Matter More Than the Body: Your camera body is just one part of the equation. The lens you use has a massive impact on image quality and creative possibilities. Start with a versatile kit lens, but plan to eventually get an affordable prime lens (like a 50mm f/1.8) to truly elevate your photos.
Understanding Camera Types: Your First Big Decision
Before you can pick a camera, it helps to know the main players in the game. For beginners, the choice usually comes down to three types: DSLRs, Mirrorless cameras, and high-end Point-and-Shoots. Each has its own personality and strengths, and the right one for you depends on your goals and shooting style.
DSLRs (Digital Single-Lens Reflex)
DSLRs are what most people picture when they think of a “professional” camera. They use a mirror mechanism to reflect light from the lens up into an optical viewfinder. When you press the shutter button, the mirror flips up, allowing light to hit the sensor and capture the image. This classic design has been trusted by photographers for decades.
- Pros: Excellent battery life because the electronic screen isn’t always on, a huge selection of affordable used lenses, and a comfortable, ergonomic grip that feels substantial in your hands.
- Cons: They are generally bigger and heavier than their mirrorless counterparts. The technology is also older, meaning video features and autofocus systems can lag behind more modern options.
Mirrorless Cameras
Mirrorless cameras are the new champions of the camera world and for good reason. As the name suggests, they don’t have a mirror. Light passes directly from the lens to the sensor, and the image is displayed on an electronic viewfinder (EVF) or the rear LCD screen. This design allows them to be smaller, lighter, and packed with cutting-edge tech.
- Pros: What you see is what you get! The EVF shows you exactly how your exposure will look before you take the picture. They also tend to have faster and more accurate autofocus systems, especially for tracking moving subjects and detecting faces/eyes.
- Cons: Battery life can be shorter due to the power needed for the EVF and LCD screen. The lens selection for newer systems can sometimes be more expensive, though this is rapidly changing.
Advanced Point-and-Shoot Cameras
Don’t confuse these with the cheap, basic point-and-shoots of the past. Modern advanced models pack large sensors (often 1-inch) and high-quality, fixed lenses into a pocket-sized body. They offer full manual control just like a DSLR or mirrorless camera but without the hassle of changing lenses.
- Pros: Ultimate portability. You can take them anywhere! They are incredibly simple to use but still offer the manual controls you need to learn and grow as a photographer.
- Cons: You can’t change the lens. This limits your creative flexibility for things like super wide-angle landscapes or telephoto wildlife shots. They also tend to have smaller sensors than most DSLRs or mirrorless cameras
Shop On Amazon Now
Key Features to Look for in Affordable Beginner Camera
When you’re shopping for cheap cameras for new photographers, it’s easy to get lost in a sea of technical specs. The truth is, only a few features really make a big difference when you’re starting out. Let’s focus on what truly matters.
Sensor Size
This is one of the most important factors for image quality. A larger sensor can capture more light, which leads to cleaner, more detailed images, especially in low-light situations. The two main sensor sizes you’ll see in beginner cameras are:
- APS-C: This is the sweet spot for beginners. It’s found in most entry-level to mid-range DSLRs and mirrorless cameras. It provides an excellent balance of image quality, camera size, and cost.
- Micro Four Thirds (MFT): Used by brands like Panasonic and Olympus, this sensor is a bit smaller than APS-C. This allows for even more compact cameras and lenses, making it a fantastic choice for travel photography.
Autofocus (AF) System
A good autofocus system helps you lock onto your subject quickly and accurately, which is crucial for getting sharp photos. Modern mirrorless cameras are the winners here, often featuring hundreds of focus points and intelligent tracking modes like Eye AF, which automatically finds and focuses on a person’s eye. A reliable AF system means you’ll miss fewer shots and can focus more on your composition.
Manual Controls
While automatic modes are great for starting, the whole point of getting a dedicated camera is to learn photography! Make sure the camera you choose offers full manual control (often called “M” mode on the dial). This includes the ability to independently adjust aperture, shutter speed, and ISO—the three pillars of the exposure triangle. Easy-to-access dials and buttons for these settings will make the learning process much more enjoyable.
Lens Mount and Ecosystem
When you buy a camera, you’re not just buying a body; you’re investing in a lens system. Check to see what kind of lenses are available for the camera you’re considering. Does the manufacturer (or third-party brands like Sigma and Tamron) offer a good selection of affordable lenses? A system with plenty of budget-friendly options will allow you to expand your creative toolkit without breaking the bank down the line.
Reviews of the Best Cheap Cameras for Beginners
Alright, let’s get to the fun part! We’ve tested and researched the market to find the absolute best budget photography cameras that give you the most bang for your buck. These are the champions of value, perfect for anyone starting their photography journey.
1. Canon EOS R100
The Canon EOS R100 is one of the best entry points into a modern mirrorless system. It’s incredibly compact and lightweight, making it a joy to carry around. It uses Canon’s latest RF lens mount and packs a powerful 24.1MP APS-C sensor that delivers the beautiful colors Canon is famous for.
Its guided user interface is perfect for beginners, explaining camera functions as you use them. The autofocus is fast and reliable, featuring excellent face and eye detection that makes getting sharp portraits a breeze. While it’s light on some advanced features to keep the cost down (like a fully articulating screen), it absolutely nails the fundamentals, providing fantastic image quality in a simple, approachable package.
Pros
- Excellent 24.1MP APS-C sensor with great image quality.
- Access to Canon’s modern RF lens mount, which is future-proof.
- Super-compact and lightweight design.
- Very user-friendly menu system with a guide mode.
Cons
- The rear LCD screen is fixed and not a touchscreen.
- Lacks some advanced video features found in pricier models.
2. Nikon D3500
Even though it’s been discontinued, the Nikon D3500 remains a legendary choice for beginners, and you can find fantastic deals on it in the used market. This DSLR is built like a tank and feels great in the hand. Its biggest superpower is its mind-blowing battery life—you can shoot over 1,500 photos on a single charge!
The D3500 also features a brilliant Guide Mode that teaches you photography concepts in real-time, showing you how to achieve effects like blurred backgrounds. The 24.2MP APS-C sensor produces sharp, vibrant images, and Nikon’s F-mount has a massive catalog of affordable lenses built up over decades. If you prefer the traditional feel of a DSLR and want unbeatable value, the D3500 is a top-tier choice.
Pros
- Phenomenal battery life (1,550 shots per charge).
- Excellent 24.2MP sensor delivers fantastic image quality.
- Superb ergonomics and comfortable grip.
- Huge selection of affordable F-mount lenses available.
Cons
- It’s a DSLR, so it’s bulkier than mirrorless options.
- The autofocus system is more basic, especially in live view mode.
- Fixed LCD screen with no touch functionality.
3. Sony a6000
Talk about a classic! The Sony a6000 was released years ago, but it’s still one of the most recommended affordable beginner cameras because it was so far ahead of its time. It’s a compact mirrorless powerhouse with a 24.3MP APS-C sensor and a blazing-fast hybrid autofocus system that still holds up today.
Its age means you can find it for an absolute steal, especially on the used market. The Sony E-mount has one of the largest lens ecosystems in the world, with countless affordable options from Sony and third-party makers. If you want a camera that is small, fast, and gives you access to an incredible range of lenses, the a6000 is an unbeatable value proposition.
Pros
- Fast and reliable hybrid autofocus system.
- Excellent image quality from its 24.3MP sensor.
- Access to the massive Sony E-mount lens library.
- Great value, especially when purchased used.
Cons
- Battery life is mediocre.
- The menu system can be confusing for new users.
- The grip is quite small, which may be uncomfortable for larger hands.
4. Panasonic Lumix G7
The Panasonic Lumix G7 is a hidden gem, especially for those interested in both photos and video. It uses the Micro Four Thirds system, which means the camera and its lenses are exceptionally small and lightweight. It’s a fantastic travel companion that won’t weigh you down.
The G7 boasts a fully articulating touchscreen, which is a huge bonus for shooting at creative angles and for vlogging. It also shoots excellent 4K video, a feature often missing from other cameras at this price point. Its 16MP sensor might seem low, but it produces beautiful, sharp images, and the MFT lens system is vast and full of affordable, high-quality glass.
Pros
- Excellent 4K video capabilities.
- Fully articulating touchscreen is incredibly versatile.
- Compact and lightweight Micro Four Thirds system.
- Very intuitive controls and menu system.
Cons
- The 16MP sensor has slightly less resolution than competitors.
- Autofocus can struggle a bit with tracking fast-moving subjects.
5. Canon EOS Rebel T7 / 2000D
Another fantastic DSLR option, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 is a workhorse camera that offers incredible value. It’s a no-frills tool designed to get the job done, and it does it well. It features a 24.1MP APS-C sensor that captures sharp, pleasing images, and its simple control layout is very easy for beginners to learn.
Like the Nikon D3500, it gives you access to a huge and affordable lens ecosystem—in this case, Canon’s EF and EF-S mounts. You can find dozens of amazing lenses for very little money. While it lacks modern features like 4K video or a touchscreen, it’s a reliable and straightforward camera that will teach you the fundamentals of photography without any distractions.
Pros
- Very affordable, offering great value for the money.
- Solid 24.1MP sensor produces great images.
- Simple and easy-to-use controls.
- Access to the massive and affordable Canon EF/EF-S lens lineup.
Cons
- Autofocus system is dated, with only 9 AF points.
- Fixed LCD screen with no touch capability.
- Lacks modern features like 4K video.
6. Fujifilm X-T200
If style is as important to you as substance, look no further. Fujifilm cameras are renowned for their beautiful retro designs and, more importantly, their incredible color science. The X-T200 produces some of the best-looking JPEGs straight out of the camera, thanks to Fuji’s famous Film Simulations that mimic classic film stocks.
The X-T200 is a mirrorless camera with a 24.2MP APS-C sensor, a massive 3.5-inch fully articulating touchscreen, and solid 4K video. It’s a joy to use and encourages creativity. You’ll have to look for this one on the used market, but it’s an amazing camera that combines style, performance, and user-friendliness in one package.
Pros
- Beautiful straight-out-of-camera JPEGs with Fujifilm’s Film Simulations.
- Large, fully articulating touchscreen.
- Stylish retro design.
- Solid autofocus and 4K video performance.
Cons
- Can be harder to find since it’s discontinued.
- Battery life is average.
7. Sony Cyber-shot RX100 III
For those who want maximum quality in the smallest possible package, the Sony RX100 series is legendary. The RX100 III is an older model, which makes it a fantastic budget option. This pocket-sized camera features a large 1-inch sensor and a superb Zeiss lens with a bright f/1.8-2.8 aperture, which is amazing for low light and creating blurry backgrounds.
It’s the ultimate take-anywhere camera that doesn’t compromise on image quality. It even has a pop-up electronic viewfinder, a feature unheard of in a camera this small. If you want a camera that fits in your jacket pocket but still delivers photos that rival much larger cameras, the RX100 III is a brilliant choice.
Pros
- Incredibly compact and pocketable.
- Large 1-inch sensor for excellent image quality.
- High-quality, bright f/1.8-2.8 Zeiss lens.
- Features a pop-up electronic viewfinder.
Cons
- The lens is fixed, so you can’t change it.
- Ergonomics can be tricky due to its small size.
- The menu system can be complex.
Best Budget Photography Cameras: A Quick Comparison
| Feature | Canon EOS R100 | Nikon D3500 | Sony a6000 | Panasonic Lumix G7 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Mirrorless | DSLR | Mirrorless | Mirrorless |
| Sensor | 24.1MP APS-C | 24.2MP APS-C | 24.3MP APS-C | 16MP MFT |
| Screen | Fixed, no touch | Fixed, no touch | Tilting, no touch | Articulating, touch |
| Video | 4K (cropped) | 1080p | 1080p | 4K |
| Best For | Simplicity & Modern Lens Mount | Battery Life & Learning | Speed & Lens Selection | Video & Travel |
Used vs. New Cameras: Where to Find the Best Deals
One of the smartest ways to get the best photography camera for a cheap price is to buy used. Photography gear is built to last, and a well-cared-for camera from a few years ago can still produce professional-quality images. You can often get a higher-end model for the price of a new entry-level one!
The Benefits of Buying Used
- Massive Savings: This is the biggest draw. You can save hundreds of dollars, allowing you to put that extra cash towards a better lens, which will have a bigger impact on your photos anyway.
- More Features for Your Money: A used mid-range camera will often have better build quality, more physical controls, and more advanced features than a brand-new budget camera.
- Environmentally Friendly: Buying used reduces waste and gives perfectly good electronics a second life.
Where to Buy Used Gear Safely
Avoid risky platforms like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace unless you know exactly what to look for. Instead, stick to reputable online retailers that inspect and grade their equipment and offer warranties. Some of the best and most trusted places to buy used camera gear are:
- KEH Camera: They have a long-standing reputation for their rigorous inspection process and conservative grading system.
- MPB: They make it easy to buy, sell, and trade gear. Their listings show photos of the actual item you’re buying, and they offer a six-month warranty.
When buying used, check the shutter count if possible (for DSLRs) and look for any signs of major wear, fungus on the lens, or sensor damage. Buying from a place like KEH or MPB removes most of this risk.
How to Choose the Right First Lens
Your camera body is only half the story. The lens you attach to it is what shapes the light and ultimately determines the look of your photo. Most beginner cameras come with a “kit lens,” which is a great place to start.
The Humble Kit Lens
A kit lens is typically a versatile zoom lens, like an 18-55mm. This range is perfect for everyday shooting, from wide-angle landscapes to portraits. Use your kit lens to figure out what focal lengths you enjoy shooting at most. Do you find yourself always zoomed out for wide shots or zoomed in for tighter compositions.
This will inform your next lens purchase.
Your First Upgrade: The “Nifty Fifty”
Once you’re ready to expand, the single best investment you can make is an affordable prime lens. A prime lens has a fixed focal length (it doesn’t zoom), and the most popular choice for beginners is a 50mm f/1.8 lens, often called the “nifty fifty.”
This lens is a game-changer for two reasons:
- The Wide Aperture (f/1.8): This lets in a ton of light, making it amazing for shooting in dark conditions without flash. It also allows you to create that beautiful, creamy, blurred background (called “bokeh”) that makes your subject pop.
- It Makes You a Better Photographer: Because you can’t zoom, you have to “zoom with your feet”—physically move around to compose your shot. This forces you to be more intentional and creative with your framing.
Nearly every brand (Canon, Nikon, Sony) makes an incredibly cheap and sharp 50mm f/1.8 lens. It’s the best and most affordable way to take your photography to the next level.
Essential Accessories for Beginner Photographers (on a Budget)
You don’t need a mountain of gear to get started. In fact, buying too much too soon can be overwhelming. Here are the only four accessories you really need when you’re just starting out.
- A Good Memory Card: Don’t cheap out on this! A slow or unreliable memory card can be a bottleneck for your camera’s performance. Look for a Class 10, U3 card from a reputable brand like SanDisk or Lexar. A 64GB card is a great starting point.
- An Extra Battery: Mirrorless cameras, in particular, can go through batteries quickly. There’s nothing worse than running out of power right when the light is perfect. An extra battery is a cheap and essential piece of insurance.
- A Comfortable Camera Bag: You need a safe way to carry your gear. You don’t need a massive, expensive backpack. A simple, well-padded shoulder bag or a small backpack with camera inserts is perfect for a camera body and a couple of lenses.
- A Basic Tripod: A tripod is essential for long-exposure photography, like capturing silky waterfalls or starry nights. You don’t need a heavy-duty carbon fiber model to start. An affordable aluminum tripod will do the job just fine for learning the basics.
Pro Tip: When buying accessories, always read recent reviews. Quality can vary, and user reviews are the best way to find reliable products that won’t let you down in the field.
Simple Tips for Getting Started with Photography
So you’ve got your camera! Now what? The best way to learn is to get out and shoot. Here are a few fundamental tips to focus on as you begin your journey.
- Learn the Exposure Triangle: This is the foundation of photography. Take your camera off auto and learn how Aperture, Shutter Speed, and ISO work together to control the brightness of your photo. There are thousands of free tutorials on YouTube that explain this concept perfectly.
- Shoot in RAW: Your camera can save files as JPEGs or RAW files. A JPEG is a compressed, processed image. A RAW file is like a digital negative—it contains all the unprocessed data from the sensor. Shooting in RAW gives you much more flexibility to edit your photos later, allowing you to recover details from shadows and highlights that would be lost in a JPEG.
- Practice Composition: A great photo isn’t just about technical settings; it’s about how you arrange the elements in your frame. Learn basic composition rules like the Rule of Thirds, leading lines, and framing. These simple guidelines will instantly make your photos more compelling and professional-looking.
- Pay Attention to Light: Light is everything in photography. Start noticing how the light changes throughout the day. The soft, warm light during the “golden hour” (just after sunrise and before sunset) is far more flattering than the harsh, direct light of midday. Learning to see and use light is the most powerful skill a photographer can develop.
Online Resources and Communities for New Photographers
You’re not alone on this journey! The internet is filled with amazing resources and supportive communities that can help you learn and grow.
One of the best places to start is YouTube. Channels like Tony & Chelsea Northrup, Jared Polin (FroKnowsPhoto), and Peter McKinnon offer an endless supply of tutorials, gear reviews, and inspiration for photographers of all skill levels. They break down complex topics into easy-to-understand videos.
For community and feedback, Reddit is an incredible resource. Subreddits like r/photography and r/photocritique are fantastic places to ask questions, share your work, and get constructive feedback from other photographers. The community is generally very welcoming to beginners.
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of dedicated learning platforms. Websites like Skillshare and even free resources from camera manufacturers themselves offer structured courses that can guide you through the basics and beyond. Immersing yourself in these communities will accelerate your learning and keep you inspired.
Maintaining and Caring for Your New Camera
Your new camera is an investment, and taking good care of it will ensure it lasts for years. Camera care isn’t complicated; it just requires a few good habits.
First, always keep your lens cap on when you’re not shooting. This protects the front element of your lens from scratches, dust, and fingerprints. When changing lenses, do it in a clean environment and point the camera body downwards to prevent dust from settling on the sensor.
Invest in a basic cleaning kit. This should include a microfiber cloth for wiping down the lens and camera body, a rocket blower for puffing dust off the sensor and lens, and a lens pen for removing stubborn smudges. Never use your shirt or a paper towel to clean your lens, as this can cause tiny scratches.
When it comes to storage, keep your camera in a dry, temperature-controlled place, preferably inside its camera bag. If you live in a very humid climate, consider getting some silica gel packets to store with your gear to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to fungus growth on lenses.
FAQ: Answering Your Top Beginner Camera Questions
Is a mirrorless or DSLR camera better for beginners?
For most beginners in 2025, a mirrorless camera is the better choice. They are typically smaller, lighter, and have more advanced autofocus systems with features like eye-tracking. The electronic viewfinder, which shows you a preview of your final exposure, is also an incredible learning tool that helps you understand the exposure triangle in real time.
How much should a beginner photographer spend on a camera?
You don’t need to spend a fortune! A great budget for a beginner’s first camera kit (including a lens) is between $400 and $700. In this price range, you can find excellent new entry-level models or even more capable used cameras that offer fantastic performance and image quality.
Is a DSLR better than an iPhone?
Yes, absolutely. While modern smartphones take amazing photos, a dedicated camera like a DSLR or mirrorless model offers significant advantages. The much larger sensor provides superior image quality, especially in low light. The ability to use interchangeable lenses gives you far more creative control over your perspective and depth of field (blurry backgrounds).
Should I buy a 35mm or 50mm lens first?
This is a classic debate. Both are fantastic prime lenses. A 50mm lens on an APS-C sensor gives you a tighter field of view that is excellent for portraits. A 35mm lens on the same sensor provides a more natural, versatile field of view that’s closer to what the human eye sees, making it great for street photography, environmental portraits, and general-purpose shooting.
You can’t go wrong with either, but a 35mm might be slightly more versatile as a first prime.
Why are DSLRs being discontinued?
Major camera manufacturers like Canon and Nikon are shifting their focus and development resources to mirrorless technology. Mirrorless cameras offer performance advantages (especially in autofocus and video) and their simpler mechanical design is the clear path forward for the industry. While DSLRs are still excellent cameras, the future of innovation lies in mirrorless systems.
Final Thoughts
Choosing your first camera is an incredibly exciting step! The most important thing to remember is that any of the cameras on this list are more than capable of taking breathtaking photos. The best photography cameras for beginners that are cheap are the ones that get you excited to go out and shoot.
Don’t get bogged down by specs or worry about having the “perfect” gear. The best camera is the one you have with you. Pick a model that fits your budget and feels good in your hands, and then focus on the most important part: learning, practicing, and discovering your unique creative voice. Now go capture something beautiful!
