The 5 Best Cameras For Beginners – Summer 2023: Reviews
- Table of Contents
- Intro
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Best Camera
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Best Mid-Range
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Best Budget
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Easiest To Use
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Best All-In-One
- Notable Mentions
- Recent Updates
- All Reviews
- Discussions
Updated Jul 21, 2023 at 08:54 am
By Adriana Wiszniewska
If you’re just getting started in photography, it might be tempting to splurge on a brand new high-end camera with all the bells and whistles, but the truth is that all the gear in the world won’t make you a better photographer if you don’t know what you’re doing. So, the best camera to start photography with is often the one that’s most accessible to you. We’ve included some pricier options here for those who want more advanced features or have a larger budget, but our best advice for beginners is to get whichever camera is within your means and work on learning the basics. Most importantly, have fun with it!
This list is mostly geared (no pun intended) toward users who want to buy a new model. However, there’s a huge used market for cameras, and you can often find great deals on older models that make excellent starter cameras. Don’t forget that a camera’s overall performance will also vary depending on the lens you use. As a general rule, it’s better to invest in a less expensive camera body and higher-quality lenses than it is to invest in an expensive camera body and cheap lenses.
We’ve bought and tested over 85 cameras in our lab, and below, you’ll find our recommendations for the best cameras for photography beginners. If you already know you’d prefer a mirrorless or a DSLR camera, you can try the best mirrorless cameras for beginners or the best DSLR cameras for beginners, respectively. Or, if you’re looking to get into vlogging or content creation, check out our recommendations for the best cameras for YouTube instead.
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Best Camera For Beginners
Fujifilm X-S10
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Travel Photography
7.
7Landscape Photography
8.0
Sport & Wildlife Photography
7.5
Vlogging
7.8
Studio Video
7.7
Action Video
5.6
Body Type
SLR-Style
Mirrorless
Yes
Sensor Size
APS-C
See all our test results
The Fujifilm X-S10 is the priciest option on our list, but it’s also one of the most well-rounded, with features that’ll suit both new and more advanced users. While Fujifilm is known for its old-school designs, which typically include dedicated exposure dials, this camera has a simpler mode dial layout, making it more beginner-friendly.
You also get a fully articulated screen and a very comfortable handgrip. On top of that, it’s one of the few cameras you’ll find at this price point with in-body image stabilization (IBIS), which can come in handy when shooting at slower shutter speeds or recording video. Inside, the camera uses the same sensor found on the enthusiast-oriented Fujifilm X-T4, capturing excellent images straight out of the camera.Beginner shooters can also play around with film simulation profiles to change up the look of their photos without having to do any post-processing. That said, buying a more expensive camera body off the bat also leaves less room in your budget to buy different lenses. So if you’re still unsure what kind of photos you enjoy taking, you probably won’t be squeezing the full value out of a higher-end camera like this until you’ve got more experience. However, if you want a more advanced entry-level camera that fits a wide range of photo and video work, this is it.
See our review
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Best Mid-Range Camera For Beginners
Nikon Z 50
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Travel Photography
7.
6Landscape Photography
8.0
Sport & Wildlife Photography
7.9
Vlogging
7.3
Studio Video
7.8
Action Video
5.4
Body Type
SLR-Style
Mirrorless
Yes
Sensor Size
APS-C
See all our test results
If you’re looking for something a bit cheaper, the Nikon Z 50 is one of the best cameras for beginners. At this price point, you still get a sturdy body with weather-sealing, a tilting screen that can flip down for selfies, and a large high-res viewfinder for a clear view of your subjects.
On top of that, it’s a great choice for action photography, thanks to a solid autofocus system and quick burst rate. However, unlike the Fujifilm X-S10, the Z 50 doesn’t have in-body image stabilization.Though it doesn’t have the highest-resolution sensor among its peers, it still delivers excellent image quality and performs well in low light. Nikon’s ergonomics are also some of the best around. Just be aware that lens support is still relatively limited for Nikon’s mirrorless Z-mount, especially if you’re looking at APS-C options. If you want more lens selection, the similarly-priced Sony α6400 has a ton of native and third-party lens options, though the ergonomics and user interface leave a lot to be desired.
See our review
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Best Budget Camera For Beginners
Canon EOS R50
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Travel Photography
7.
8Landscape Photography
7.6
Sport & Wildlife Photography
8.0
Vlogging
8.0
Studio Video
7.8
Action Video
4.9
Body Type
SLR-Style
Mirrorless
Yes
Sensor Size
APS-C
See all our test results
The Canon EOS R50 is one of the best cameras for photography beginners on a budget. With a portable body, it’s a great camera to take on the go, and the simple controls and intuitive auto-shooting modes make it ideal for beginner photographers.
Plus, its autofocus system is very reliable, with various subject detection modes that ensure your subjects stay in focus. It’s also a good choice if you’re interested in video and vlogging, with 4k recording at up to 30 fps, although its battery life is somewhat limited.If you want something more portable for travel, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is another great budget camera. The R50 has an advantage in low light because of its larger APS-C sensor, but the Olympus is part of the Micro Four Thirds system, which offers more lens options and makes for a more portable overall kit. Just know that its autofocus isn’t as reliable as the Canon.
See our review
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Easiest-To-Use Camera For Beginners
Nikon D3500
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Travel Photography
7.
2Landscape Photography
7.1
Sport & Wildlife Photography
6.5
Vlogging
2.9
Studio Video
3.1
Action Video
2.6
Body Type
DSLR
Mirrorless
No
Sensor Size
APS-C
See all our test results
If you’re completely new to photography, the Nikon D3500 is still one of the best digital cameras for beginners, thanks to its unique interactive Guide Mode. Built right into the mode dial, the Guide Mode walks you through the camera’s features in simplified terms, so you can learn the ropes of photography as you go.
While it doesn’t have some of the bells and whistles you’ll find on newer, more advanced mirrorless models like those above, the D3500 has an excellent high-resolution sensor that punches above its weight, along with many high-quality lens options, so you can still take beautiful photos and upgrade your kit as your skills grow.With that being said, the D3500 is getting harder to find new, so you might have to try used retailers like B&H Photo Video, KEH Camera, or Adorama. If you can find one, though, an older DSLR like this—or even previous iterations, like the Nikon D3400 or D3300—is a great cost-effective option to dip your toe into “serious” photography, and its beginner-friendly features make it a great choice if you’ve never used a camera before.
See our review
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Best All-In-One Camera For Beginners
Panasonic LUMIX FZ80
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Travel Photography
6.
4Landscape Photography
6.1
Sport & Wildlife Photography
6.9
Vlogging
3.6
Studio Video
5.8
Action Video
2.5
Body Type
Bridge
Mirrorless
Yes
Sensor Size
1/2.3-inch
See all our test results
While the best cameras for beginner photographers are interchangeable-lens models like the ones above, costs can quickly add up when you invest in a camera body, lenses, and other gear like extra batteries, memory cards, and maybe even a tripod.
If you’d rather buy a cheap all-in-one camera that still gives you an SLR-like shooting experience, consider a budget bridge camera like the Panasonic LUMIX FZ80. It’s a relatively inexpensive camera that still offers lots of value for its price.While its smaller sensor can’t compete with the larger sensor options above in image quality, the built-in lens on this thing will give you plenty of zoom range. It also provides a relatively comfortable shooting experience and a viewfinder to give you a better feel for composition. This camera also has plenty of extra features to let you play around with different styles and subjects, including a macro mode for close-ups and a ‘4k PHOTO’ mode for sports and fast-moving subjects. It’s a solid, versatile option for casual or family photography, especially if you’re on a tight budget.
See our review
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You also get a fully articulated screen and a very comfortable handgrip. On top of that, it’s one of the few cameras you’ll find at this price point with in-body image stabilization (IBIS), which can come in handy when shooting at slower shutter speeds or recording video. Inside, the camera uses the same sensor found on the enthusiast-oriented Fujifilm X-T4, capturing excellent images straight out of the camera.
6
On top of that, it’s a great choice for action photography, thanks to a solid autofocus system and quick burst rate. However, unlike the Fujifilm X-S10, the Z 50 doesn’t have in-body image stabilization.
8
Plus, its autofocus system is very reliable, with various subject detection modes that ensure your subjects stay in focus. It’s also a good choice if you’re interested in video and vlogging, with 4k recording at up to 30 fps, although its battery life is somewhat limited.
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While it doesn’t have some of the bells and whistles you’ll find on newer, more advanced mirrorless models like those above, the D3500 has an excellent high-resolution sensor that punches above its weight, along with many high-quality lens options, so you can still take beautiful photos and upgrade your kit as your skills grow.
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If you’d rather buy a cheap all-in-one camera that still gives you an SLR-like shooting experience, consider a budget bridge camera like the Panasonic LUMIX FZ80. It’s a relatively inexpensive camera that still offers lots of value for its price.Notable Mentions
- Canon EOS Rebel SL3:
The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 is a great budget DSLR that’s relatively portable. Unlike the Nikon D3500, it has a fully articulated screen and can record 4k video, but it has a worse battery life and lacks an interactive guide mode.
See our review - Fujifilm X-T30 II:
The Fujifilm X-T30 II is a good mid-range option that’s more portable than the Nikon Z 50 and captures photos with pleasing colors and minimal noise straight out of the camera. However, its dedicated exposure controls are less accessible to newcomers, and its autofocus isn’t as reliable.
See our review - Nikon D5600:
The Nikon D5600 sits above the Nikon D3500 in Nikon’s lineup of entry-level DSLRs. It doesn’t have the interactive guide mode and is a bit pricier, but it’s a great mid-range option that gives you a more advanced autofocus system and a fully articulated screen. However, it’s hard to find new.
See our review
Unlike the Nikon D3500, it has a fully articulated screen and can record 4k video, but it has a worse battery life and lacks an interactive guide mode.Recent Updates
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Jul 21, 2023:
Verified accuracy of picks.
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Jun 23, 2023:
Replaced the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV with the Canon EOS R50 as the ‘Best Budget Camera For Beginners’. -
May 24, 2023:
Restructured article to better reflect product availability. -
Apr 27, 2023:
Removed the Fujifilm X-T200 from Notable Mentions. -
Mar 28, 2023:
Replaced the Sony a6100 with the Nikon Z 50 as the ‘Best Mid-Range Camera For Beginners’ and added the Fujifilm X-S10 as the ‘Best Upper Mid-Range Camera For Beginners’.
All Reviews
Our recommendations above are what we think are currently the best digital cameras for beginners to buy, according to their needs.
We factor in the price, feedback from our visitors, and availability (no cameras that are difficult to find or almost out of stock in the U.S.).
If you’d like to choose for yourself, here’s the list of all our reviews for cameras under $1,000. Be careful not to get caught up in the details. There is no single perfect camera. Personal taste, preference, and shooting habits will matter more in your selection.
The 6 Best Mirrorless Cameras For Beginners – Summer 2023: Reviews
- Table of Contents
- Intro
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Best Camera
-
Best Mid-Range
-
Best Budget
-
Best Video
-
Best Portable
-
Best Full-Frame
- Notable Mentions
- Recent Updates
- All Reviews
- Discussions
Updated Jun 19, 2023 at 02:49 pm
By Adriana Wiszniewska
Mirrorless cameras are a great option for beginner photographers thanks to their electronic viewfinders, which let you see changes to your image in real time through the viewfinder.
With plenty of options at a range of different price brackets and experience levels, making the jump from your smartphone to a dedicated camera has never been easier. Though it might be tempting to dive right into a more advanced model, the good news for those just starting is that any modern mirrorless camera will be more than capable of doing what you need. Get whichever camera is within your budget or easily available, whether it’s new or used, so you can start shooting and get a handle on the fundamentals of what makes a good photo.
We’ve bought and tested over 85 cameras in our lab, and below, you’ll find our recommendations for the best entry-level mirrorless cameras. Most of our picks here are APS-C models, but if you need full-frame image quality and low-light capability, we also have recommendations for the best full-frame mirrorless cameras. If you think you’d prefer an optical viewfinder and the longer battery life that you get with a DSLR, check out our list of the best DSLR cameras for beginners instead.
Finally, if you’re on a tight budget, we have the best cheap and budget cameras.
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Best Mirrorless Camera For Beginners
Nikon Z 50
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Travel Photography
7.6
Landscape Photography
8.0
Sport & Wildlife Photography
7.9
Vlogging
7.3
Studio Video
7.8
Action Video
5.4
Body Type
SLR-Style
Mirrorless
Yes
Sensor Size
APS-C
See all our test results
The Nikon Z 50 is the best entry-level mirrorless camera we’ve tested, with plenty of features that even more advanced users can take advantage of.
It’s a very well-built camera with a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body that gives you more peace of mind when shooting in the rain or snow. It has a large high-res viewfinder and feels comfortable to shoot with. Photos look amazing straight out of the camera thanks to Nikon’s excellent color science, along with a sensor that does relatively well in low light and preserves a fairly wide range of detail in high-contrast scenes.That said, it doesn’t have the most reliable autofocus. It isn’t bad, but its tracking isn’t the quickest or most accurate compared to the similarly-priced Sony α6400. The Sony is a great alternative, although its menu system is a lot less accessible for beginners, and its ergonomics leave a lot to be desired compared to the Nikon. Ultimately, the Nikon is a well-rounded camera that can easily grow with you as your skill level improves.
See our review
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Best Mid-Range Mirrorless Camera For Beginners
Sony α6100
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Travel Photography
8.
2Landscape Photography
8.1
Sport & Wildlife Photography
7.8
Vlogging
7.1
Studio Video
7.1
Action Video
4.7
Body Type
SLR-Style
Mirrorless
Yes
Sensor Size
APS-C
See all our test results
If you don’t want to spend as much, consider the Sony α6100, the entry-level model in Sony’s current lineup of APS-C cameras. It’s very similar to the Sony α6400 mentioned above. However, unlike that model or the Nikon Z 50, it has a lower-resolution viewfinder and a more plasticky build with no weather-sealing.
Despite these hardware differences, this is still a great option for those getting started with photography. It uses the same high-resolution sensor as more expensive models in Sony’s APS-C lineup and has the same highly effective autofocus system that Sony cameras are known for.It’s also a great option if you do a lot of traveling since it’s portable and has a very good battery life compared to most entry-level mirrorless cameras. That said, its menu system is fairly convoluted and hard to navigate, which can be a hassle for manual shooters, given the limited number of command dials. If you don’t mind some of its design quirks, this is a great camera to start photography with.
See our review
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Best Budget Mirrorless Camera For Beginners
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
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Travel Photography
7.
7Landscape Photography
7.8
Sport & Wildlife Photography
7.5
Vlogging
7.6
Studio Video
7.1
Action Video
4.7
Body Type
SLR-Style
Mirrorless
Yes
Sensor Size
4/3 (MFT)
See all our test results
The best budget model we’ve tested is the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV. Unlike the other picks on our list, this camera uses a Micro Four Thirds (M4/3) sensor, so there’s a trade-off in low-light capability, but it’s a great-value option for beginners on a tighter budget.
The upside of that smaller sensor is that you also get a highly portable camera with small and relatively affordable lenses to match. Lens selection for the M4/3 system is also vast, making it easy to upgrade to better lenses as you improve.This is also one of the only cameras to feature in-body image stabilization at this price point. That means smoother handheld footage while vlogging, for instance, and stable photos at slower shutter speeds, which is great when there’s less light to work with. That said, its autofocus system isn’t the most reliable. You can try the Canon EOS M50 Mark II for a more effective AF system, which also uses a larger APS-C sensor. Just be aware that lens options are more limited for Canon’s EF-M mount.
See our review
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Best Beginner Mirrorless Camera For Video
Sony ZV-E10
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Travel Photography
8.
2Landscape Photography
8.2
Sport & Wildlife Photography
7.4
Vlogging
8.6
Studio Video
7.9
Action Video
4.8
Body Type
SLR-Style
Mirrorless
Yes
Sensor Size
APS-C
See all our test results
If you want to get started in video, look no further than the Sony ZV-E10. This budget vlogging camera is the perfect video camera for beginners. It’s similar to the Sony α6100 mentioned above but is geared more toward vloggers and video shooters.
For one, it has an updated internal microphone, a detachable windscreen to reduce ambient noise, and a fully articulated screen that makes it easy to monitor yourself while recording.Unfortunately, you don’t get a viewfinder here, but the camera is super portable and feels relatively well-built. Battery life is also impressive for a mirrorless camera. Plus, its autofocus system is reliable and accurate, and it even has specialized focus modes, like ‘Product Showcase’, which is great for product and beauty vloggers, as it automatically switches focus to any object held up to the lens. Overall, if you’re looking for a lightweight video camera that won’t break the bank, this one’s hard to beat.
See our review
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Best Portable Mirrorless Camera For Beginners
Fujifilm X-T30 II
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Travel Photography
7.
8Landscape Photography
8.0
Sport & Wildlife Photography
7.2
Vlogging
6.5
Studio Video
7.4
Action Video
5.8
Body Type
SLR-Style
Mirrorless
Yes
Sensor Size
APS-C
See all our test results
If portability is your biggest concern, the Fujifilm X-T30 II is a fantastic little camera for the price. Though it’s a bit taller than the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV, it’s comparable in portability and has a larger APS-C sensor. Even if they aren’t as accessible to novice users, dedicated exposure dials make it super easy to adjust settings on the fly once you get a handle on them, and the camera feels well-built.
Image quality is excellent right out of the box, and it comes with film simulation profiles that let you play around with the look of your photos in-camera. Unfortunately, its autofocus isn’t as consistent as the Nikon Z 50, and naturally, its compact size means you won’t get those nice ergonomics. But if you’re looking for a small and lightweight camera that’s both fun to shoot with and delivers when it comes to image quality, this is one of the best options for the price.
See our review
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Best Full-Frame Mirrorless Camera For Beginners
Canon EOS RP
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Travel Photography
7.8
Landscape Photography
8.
0Sport & Wildlife Photography
6.8
Vlogging
7.9
Studio Video
7.5
Action Video
3.7
Body Type
SLR-Style
Mirrorless
Yes
Sensor Size
Full Frame
See all our test results
While crop sensor cameras offer beginners the best balance of price and performance, full-frame cameras generally perform better in low light and make getting a nice blurred background in your photos easier. While these advantages may be lost on you until you’ve gotten a handle on the basics, the entry-level Canon EOS RP is a good option for beginners who are set on jumping right into full frame or know they’ll need the extra low-light advantage.
It’s pricier than the Nikon Z 50, and you’ll also be paying more for lenses, but it’ll give you full-frame image quality at about as low a price as you can get, short of buying secondhand.The RP is relatively portable compared to other full-frame options, and its simple button layout is designed to be as accessible as possible to newcomers. However, more advanced manual shooters might find the relative lack of control dials limiting. Still, it’s comfortable to shoot with and includes a large viewfinder and a fully articulated touchscreen. While it can take high-resolution photos with less noise in low light, it lags behind many of our APS-C picks in battery life, burst rate, and dynamic range. Only consider it if you need that added low-light performance or already have some full-frame lenses.
See our review
It’s a very well-built camera with a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body that gives you more peace of mind when shooting in the rain or snow. It has a large high-res viewfinder and feels comfortable to shoot with. Photos look amazing straight out of the camera thanks to Nikon’s excellent color science, along with a sensor that does relatively well in low light and preserves a fairly wide range of detail in high-contrast scenes.
2
Despite these hardware differences, this is still a great option for those getting started with photography. It uses the same high-resolution sensor as more expensive models in Sony’s APS-C lineup and has the same highly effective autofocus system that Sony cameras are known for.
7
The upside of that smaller sensor is that you also get a highly portable camera with small and relatively affordable lenses to match. Lens selection for the M4/3 system is also vast, making it easy to upgrade to better lenses as you improve.
2
For one, it has an updated internal microphone, a detachable windscreen to reduce ambient noise, and a fully articulated screen that makes it easy to monitor yourself while recording.
8
0
It’s pricier than the Nikon Z 50, and you’ll also be paying more for lenses, but it’ll give you full-frame image quality at about as low a price as you can get, short of buying secondhand.Notable Mentions
- Fujifilm X-S10:
The Fujifilm X-S10 is an excellent APS-C camera and one of the few in its price range to feature in-body image stabilization. However, it’s more expensive than the Nikon Z 50, has a smaller viewfinder, and has a less reliable autofocus system.
See our review
However, it’s more expensive than the Nikon Z 50, has a smaller viewfinder, and has a less reliable autofocus system.Recent Updates
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Jun 19, 2023:
Checked accuracy of picks, with no change to recommendations. -
Apr 20, 2023:
Added the Sony ZV-E10 as the ‘Best Beginner Mirrorless Camera For Video’, removed the Fujifilm X-T200 from Notable Mentions, and added the Fujifilm X-S10 to Notable Mentions. -
Feb 17, 2023:
Replaced the Canon EOS M50 Mark II with the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV as the ‘Best Budget Mirrorless Camera For Beginners’ and added the Fujifilm X-T30 II as the ‘Best Portable Mirrorless Camera For Beginners’. Also removed the Fujifilm X-E4 from Notable Mentions.
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Dec 19, 2022:
Removed the Canon EOS M50 from Notable Mentions due to limited availability. -
Oct 28, 2022:
Reviewed article for clarity and readability.
Also removed the Fujifilm X-E4 from Notable Mentions.
All Reviews
Our recommendations above are what we think are currently the best mirrorless cameras for beginners to buy, according to their needs. We factor in the price, feedback from our visitors, and availability (no cameras that are difficult to find or almost out of stock in the U.S.).
If you’d like to choose for yourself, here’s the list of all our tested mirrorless cameras that retail for under $1,000, arranged in descending order of price. Be careful not to get caught up in the details.
There is no single perfect camera. Personal taste, preference, and shooting habits will matter more in your selection.
Top 10 Best Cameras for Beginners 2023
The best cameras for beginners should be easy to use, but with interchangeable lenses and manual controls.
What is the best camera for beginners? We think it’s not a very expensive camera, but still capable of producing quality images and having the opportunity to try out more advanced techniques and shooting styles as you learn more about photography. That is, this means that it must be: mirrored or mirrorless!
03/08/2023 Update
New models have been added to the ranking of the best cameras and cameras for beginners.
There’s been a long debate over which is better, DSLRs or mirrorless cameras, but either type is a great way to get started in photography, and we’ve included both types of cameras in this list.
In general, a DSLR will be bigger and heavier with better battery life.
It might cost a bit less and you can choose from a wide range of lenses. The mirrorless camera will be smaller and lighter, and it will be the best choice for video shooting and blogging.
For those who are going to use the camera primarily for shooting videos for social networks, we suggest that you familiarize yourself with our rating of the best cameras for vlogging. For extreme and outdoor enthusiasts, we have prepared a rating of the best action cameras.
To be honest, DSLRs are slowly disappearing from the market, and almost all major camera manufacturers are moving towards developing mirrorless systems. However, if you get a Canon or Nikon DSLR, you can choose from a huge range of lenses and your camera will likely be up to date for many years to come.
At the end of this ranking, you’ll find some more tips for choosing the best camera for beginners, but it all comes down to price, versatility, and usability.
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When buying, you need to think about lenses. DSLRs and mirrorless cameras are usually sold as “body only” or with a kit lens. Of course, buying just the body is cheaper, but that’s a false economy – if you don’t already have a lens, it’s always cheaper to buy a kit than to buy a lens separately. You’ll usually get a basic 3x zoom lens or something similar, and that’s a good place to start.
We recommend using the included lens with every camera in the ranking, as it is almost always the standard option.
1
Canon EOS 250D
Best Newbie Camera
Type: DSLR
Sensor: APS-C
9002 4 Lens mount: Canon EF-S
Screen: 3″ touch screen with
vari-angle, 1,040,000 dots
Max burst speed: 5 fps
Max video resolution: 4K UHD @ 25p
Pros
- Lightweight, intuitive DSLR
- Superb Live View shooting 90 064
Cons
- Relatively few AF points
It’s not the cheapest DSLR you can buy, but it’s often worth paying a little more to get a lot more features – and this camera is a perfect example.
The EOS 250D features Canon’s best-in-class 24.1MP APS-C sensor, easy Live View shooting with an adjustable touch screen, and Canon’s fast Dual Pixel CMOS AF.
In fact, we would say that this is one of the few DSLRs where framing shots using the screen is preferred over using the viewfinder. In addition, Canon has made it possible for this camera to shoot 4K video, packing it all into the smallest DSLR body you’ll ever see. However, if you’re after particularly high-quality video, one of the SL3’s rival DSLRs will probably do the job better.
Recommended kit lens: Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/4-5.6 IS STM
3
Nikon D3500
Entry level classic DSLR
Type: DSLR
Sensor: APS-C
Megapixels: 24.2 MP
Lens mount: Nikon F (DX)
Screen: 3″ 921000 dots
Max burst speed: 5fps 9004 2 Max video resolution: 1080p (Full HD)
User Level: Newbie
Pros
- Interactive Guided Shooting Mode
- Solid Performance
- Good Handling
Cons
- Pretty simple controls
- No LCD display tilt and non-touch
If you’re worried about DSLRs being too complicated, don’t worry.
The Nikon D3500 has an excellent “Guide” shooting mode that acts as a fully interactive guide to photography and camera settings, presented through the rear LCD screen. The controls of the D3500 are simple and easy to learn. At the same time, its price indicates the absence of some of the more advanced features.
For example, there is no Custom Settings menu for customizing the camera’s functions to your preferences, as is found in every other Nikon SLR series. Autofocus in Live View and video capture modes is quite slow, although the Nikon AF-P DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens speeds it up and is the best kit lens for this model. Overall, the image quality and performance of the Nikon D3500 is extremely good for the money, and the 5fps burst rate is pretty fast for an entry-level DSLR. Check out the many other great Nikon lenses that this DSLR lets you use.
Recommended kit lens: Nikon AF-P DX 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR
4
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
Great beginner camera with flashy style
900 24 Type: mirrorless
Sensor: Micro Four Thirds
Megapixels: 20.
3
Lens mount: MFT
Screen: 3-inch 1-angle touchscreen 80 degrees, 1037k dots
Viewfinder: electronic viewfinder, 2360k dots
Max Frame Rate: 8.7fps
Max Video Resolution: 4K UHD
User Level: Beginner / Intermediate
Pros
- 9000 6 Latest 20MP sensor
- 5-axis stabilization in the body
Cons
- Plastic build
- MFT sensor smaller than APS-C
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV starter camera with new 20 megapixel sensor, improved in-body image stabilization and a new sliding and swivel screen, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV has many advantages.
While retaining the 4K video shooting capability and attractive design that made the Mark III attractive to consumers, the Mark IV is a great choice for those looking for an entry-level camera that can do just about anything.
It’s one of our favorite small-sized cameras; it’s compact enough to carry and much more powerful than it looks. The OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a camera that can be with you for a long time.
Recommended kit lens: Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 EZ
5
Fujifilm X-T5
a camera that is in a class of its own
Type: mirrorless
Sensor: APS-C X-Trans CMOS
900 24 Megapixels: 40.2 MP
Lens: Sony E
Screen: 3-inch swivel touch screen
Viewfinder: 0.5-inch 3.69M-dot OLED viewfinder, 100 fps refresh rate
Continuous shooting speed: Mechanical 15fps, Electronic 20fps (1.29x cropping)
Maximum Video Resolution: 6.2K
User Level: Enthusiast/Intermediate
Pros
- 9006 2 10-bit video 4: 2:2 6.2K/30P
- Lightweight, compact design
- Cheaper than Fujifilm X-h3
Cons
- Not everyone will like the display 900 64
Fujifilm X-T5 is an evolution of the X-T series and not a revolution.
This is a classic SLR-style camera that puts photography first and is more for the serious enthusiast.
The X-T5 continues to build on the X-T4 that so many users loved, but is still perfect for those who want a lightweight camera with traditional controls and a great 40.2MP resolution, 10-bit 4:2: 2 videos at 6.2K / 30P and a new 3-position swivel touch screen. The look, feel and handling of the X-T5 is second to none.
Recommended kit lens: Fujifilm XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS.
5
Sony ZV-E10
Great camera for vlogging beginners
Type: mirrorless
Sensor: APS-C
Megapixels: 24.2 MP
Lens: Sony E mount
Screen: adjustable angle
Viewfinder: No
Max Continuous Shooting: 11fps for 116 JPEGs
Max Video Resolution: 4K 30p
User Level: Enthusiast
Pros
- Autofocus features and performance
- Vari-angle screen
- Clip-on windscreen
Cons
- No in-body stabilization
- Without viewfinder
If your interests are divided in half between video and photography, the Sony ZV-E10 blogging camera is a great choice.
It falls short in photography as it doesn’t have an electronic viewfinder, but it makes up for it with video capabilities, including 4K video recording and a fully rotatable screen.
The camera also features a large, high-quality built-in microphone (with windscreen), excellent Sony autofocus, and an attractive price. Unfortunately, it doesn’t have in-body image stabilization, and the menus can’t be touch-controlled (which can be a problem in a blogging camera), but for beginners in video, this is unlikely to be a big drawback. More importantly, thanks to the use of the Sony E mount, the camera has access to a large number of lenses from Sony and third parties.
Recommended kit lens: Sony E 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 power zoom
6
Panasonic Lumix G100
Designed for vlogging, but also a great camera for photography
Type: mirrorless
Sensor: Micro Four Thirds
Megapixels: 20.3
Lens mount: MFT
Screen: 3-inch vari-angle, 1840K dots
9002 4 Viewfinder: EVF 3.
69 M dots
Max Continuous Shooting Rate: 10fps
Max Video Resolution: 4K UHD
User Level: Novice / Enthusiast
Pros
- Quality video and photo
- Audio recording capabilities
- EVF and hinged LCD
Cons
- No in-body stabilization
- No headphone jack or USB-C
Interested in the idea of vlogging? The Panasonic Lumix G100 is a great alternative to the Sony ZV-E10. It has a smaller Micro Four Thirds sensor, but it has an electronic viewfinder that Sony doesn’t have, so it’s a pretty even matchup. Photographers and vloggers will appreciate the ease of use of the Lumix G100.
It makes shooting high-quality videos and photos easy with a convenient button layout. Even people who are not interested in the technical details of capturing beautiful videos can get results with this camera. With a mini DSLR design and electronic viewfinder, Panasonic gave the G100 an edge in a highly competitive market.
Recommended lens kit: Panasonic Lumix G Vario 12-32mm f/3.5-5.6 ASPH
7
Canon EOS M50 Mark II
Still a great little camera – great price
Type: 90 025 mirrorless
Sensor: APS-C
Lens mount: Canon EF-M
Screen: 3-inch 1040k-dot vari-angle touchscreen
Max burst speed: 10fps second
Max video resolution: 4K UHD
Pros
- Built-in EVF
- Well articulated touch screen
Cons 90 003
- So-so 4K video
- Easy external control
First From the looks of it, it’s a modest update to the original Canon EOS M50, but the additions make this entry-level camera a worthy choice over its predecessor. These include an improved autofocus system (including eye detection in photos and videos), as well as significant benefits for HDMI video recording, vertical video recording, and YouTube live streaming capabilities.
Unfortunately, while it’s a great 1080p camera, it’s a poor choice for 4K – no Dual Pixel AF (only contrast definition left) and 1.6x crop.
However, it packs a lot of other technology into its compact body, including a great 24.1MP sensor, 10fps high-speed shooting, and a viewfinder (which many similar DSLRs in this price range lack). It’s a cute and easy to use camera that’s pretty versatile, and is a great DSLR alternative to the Canon Rebel SL3/EOS 250D, with similar capabilities in a more compact body.
Recommended lens kit: Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-5.6
8
Nikon Z fc
Retro look Nikon Z fc is simply GORGEOUS
Type: Mirrorless
Sensor: APS-C CMOS
900 24 Megapixels: 20.9 MP
Screen: 3.2 1.04M dot tilting
Continuous shooting speed: 11fps
Viewfinder: 2.36M dot EVF
Max video resolution: 4K UHD @ 30p
900 24 User level: Novice / Enthusiast
Pros
- Great Design
- Handling
Cons
- Several lenses with DX mount Z
Nikon Z fc is by far the coolest camera on this list.
This is a retro style mirror machine with circular dial controls, it is fun to use and eye catching. Internally, it’s almost identical to the Nikon Z50, with the same APS-C sensor and processor, and many other specs.
A few extras such as the built-in flash have been omitted, and it’s more expensive than the Z50, so if you don’t care about aesthetics, Nikon’s other DX format camera is a smarter choice. But if you’re the kind of person who can’t resist the best retro cameras, then the Nikon Z fc is exactly what you need. It’s not the cheapest camera for beginners, but you get a lot of features for your money, and its looks may inspire you to get serious about photography.
Recommended Lens Kit: NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR
9
Nikon Z50
Nikon Z50 is essentially the same as the Z fc but designed for no-nonsense practicality
90 024 Type: mirrorless
Sensor: APS-C CMOS
Megapixels: 20.
9 MP
Monitor: 3.2-inch tilting 1.04M dots
900 24 Continuous shooting speed: 11fps
Viewfinder: EVF, 2.36M dots
Max Video Resolution: 4K UHD @ 30p
User Level: Novice / Enthusiast
Pros
- Good price
- Compact housing and lens kit
- 4K – video and shooting at 11 fps
Cons
- No in-body stabilization
- Limited lens range
Despite its compact size, the Nikon Z50 has a good grip and comfortable location of external controls, and The built-in kit 16-50mm lens impresses not only with its “pancake” size, but also with its overall performance. Key features are 4K video shooting, 11fps continuous shooting, and the fact that its Z mount is identical to larger cameras, so dedicated Nikkor Z DX lenses, full-frame Nikkor Z lenses, and regular Nikon DSLR lenses via an FTZ adapter can be used.
Best of all, the Z50 offers great value for money, especially when purchased with two lenses.
However, even some time after its release, it still only has three native DX format lenses – meaning that while you’re stuck using older DSLR lenses via an FTZ adapter or larger and more expensive full-frame Nikkor Z lenses that are limited to wide angle photos due to the “crop factor” of the smaller sensor size.
Recommended kit lens: NIKKOR Z DX 16-50mm f/3.5-6.3 VR
10
Sony A6000
SLR
Sensor: APS-C
Megapixels : 24.3 MP
Lens mount: Sony E
Screen: 3-inch tilting screen, 921K dots
Viewfinder: EVF, 1440K dots 900 42 Continuous shooting speed: 11 fps
Max Video Resolution: Full HD
User Level: Novice / Enthusiast
Pros
- Small and light design
- Built-in EVF
Cons
- No 4K video
- Relatively old model
Although the Sony A6000 is six years old, it is still one of Sony’s best entry-level cameras, especially considering that it can often be bought at a good discount – it is significantly cheaper than the new models A6100, A6400 and A6600 , but almost as good as them in photography of stationary objects.
With a compact camera design and access to Sony’s range of interchangeable lenses, this small camera packs a big punch.
Resolution with the 24.3 megapixel image sensor is very good, although the 1440-dot electronic viewfinder is a bit weak by today’s standards, as well as a 921k-dot display. It doesn’t have the ability to record 4K video, and it doesn’t have the high-tech autofocus system of Sony’s latest A6000 series cameras. But if you can do without them, then the solid construction, image quality, continuous shooting, and autofocus performance are better than you might expect from its price.
Recommended kit lens: Sony 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 OSS
How to choose a camera for beginners
Price: Yes, price is important, especially for beginners, we understand that! However, don’t rule out spending a little more, as this will often allow you to get a lot more features.
Interchangeable Lenses: Your standard lens can only achieve a certain amount, so if you plan to buy more, choose a camera with a choice of interchangeable lenses.
Easy settings: All of the cameras in our ranking have automatic modes to help you boost your confidence, as well as manual settings that come in handy later on when you get more ambitious.
Manual modes: Auto modes on cameras will help you start thinking for you, but it won’t last forever! You will also need manual control, because one day you will want to take control.
Video: 4K has become the new standard for video recording, so if vlogging is your primary interest, go for a more modern 4K capable mirrorless camera.
Mega pixels: Mega pixels affect image quality. However, almost all beginner cameras are in the 16 to 24 MP range, and the difference in results will be negligible.
Kit lenses
If you are buying your first DSLR or mirrorless camera, make sure you get it with a kit lens. While most cameras will be cheaper if you buy just the body, the price difference with the addition of a kit lens is usually small, and much cheaper than buying both separately.
Some entry-level cameras will have several kit lens options, so if there is one we would specifically recommend, we mention it above. However, be careful with very cheap and old kit lenses that sellers are trying to sell that do not have image stabilization, for example. This can save you some money on your purchase, but you’ll probably regret it later.
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Technical Image Press Association Best Cameras & Lenses 2023 | News | Photo, video, optics
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18 apr. 2023
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Association
Technical
Image Press Association (TIPA), which includes
specialized photo magazines for all
world, chose the best cameras and
optics 2023
of the year.
Results
awards are published on the official
TIPA website.
Best
entry-level APS-C camera experts
recognized Canon EOS R50. According to them, she
suitable for a wide range of users
and provides all the necessary functions,
including for shooting in bad
lighting.
Canon EOS R50, tipa.com
Best
APS-C professional camera
became
Fujifilm X-h3S. Experts highlighted
autofocus and tracking capabilities
facilities, low noise and good
performance in the dark.
Fujifilm X-h3S, tipa.com
Leader
among blogging cameras –
Nikon
Z30. Experts believe that it gives more
opportunities for creativity and video recording
compared to compact cameras and
smartphones.
Best
Canon has become a full-frame camera
eos r8,
which combines all the necessary
functions for both photo and video shooting.
Canon EOS R8, tipa.com
Status
best professional full frame
cameras received Sony A7R V. Its main
characteristics –
61 MP
sensor, image stabilization with eight
steps, 8K video recording, advanced
smart autofocus.