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Best DSLR Cameras for Beginners in 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need

By ShopSavvy Team

Published: January 10th, 2024

📸Starting out with a DSLR camera can feel like diving into a sea of options. Whether you’re hunting for something budget-friendly or a bit more advanced, we’ve done the homework to find the best cameras for every newbie photographer's needs. We looked at everything from ease of use to portability and price.

Our picks should help you find a camera that feels just right for your budding photography journey.

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Overall Best: Nikon D3500

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

The Nikon D3500 is our top pick for beginners, offering a remarkable balance of simplicity and performance. This model features a 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor that delivers stunning, high-quality images. The Guide Mode is particularly helpful for newcomers, providing step-by-step assistance to master the basics of photography. Weighing just 365 grams, it’s lightweight and portable, making it ideal for carrying around. Additionally, its impressive battery life allows for around 1,550 shots per charge, ensuring you'll capture all your moments without frequently recharging. The Nikon D3500’s combination of user-friendly features and affordability make it the best overall choice for beginners.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$473.95 at B&H Photo Video Used

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Runner-up: Canon EOS Rebel T7

Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm Lens | Built-in Wi-Fi | 24.1 MP CMOS Sensor | DIGIC 4+ Image Processor and Full HD Videos

The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is another excellent option for those new to photography. It boasts a 24.1-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor that produces high-quality images with rich detail and vibrant colors. The camera's built-in Wi-Fi makes it easy to share photos instantly, while the 3-inch LCD screen simplifies composing and reviewing your shots. Features like the Scene Intelligent Auto mode provide automatic adjustments for optimal settings, and the Creative Auto mode offers a simplified approach to manual settings, perfect for learning and experimentation. Its blend of ease-of-use and robust performance makes it a strong runner-up in our picks.

Lowest at Amazon

$479.00 at Amazon

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$479.00 at Abt Electronics & Appliances

More Answers

Still curious about the Canon EOS Rebel T7? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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Is the Canon EOS Rebel T7 good for travel photography?

The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is a solid choice for travel photography mainly because it's portable and lightweight. According to our research, people often mention its compact size and how easy it is to carry. For example, one person noted, 'Definitely good quality and not too heavy or bulky in size. I can easily travel with it in the travel bag I got!' Another mentioned, 'Easy to travel with and lightweight.' So, it shouldn't be a hassle, even if you're moving through multiple cities or hiking to scenic spots. The manufacturer lists the camera at just 1.04 pounds, so it's relatively light for a DSLR. This should make it less cumbersome whether you're carrying it in a backpack or a dedicated camera bag. It also has built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, which is handy for quickly sharing your travel photos on social media or backing them up to cloud storage without needing a computer. The image quality is pretty good, especially in well-lit environments. However, it might struggle a bit in low-light conditions and with slower autofocus speeds, so it's better suited for daytime photography or places with decent lighting. Some folks find it a bit bulky if they're used to smaller point-and-shoot cameras or smartphones. One person did state, 'Very big!!!' but that's relative to what you're accustomed to carrying. Overall, it's a user-friendly camera with good image quality and portability, making it a worthwhile option for travel photography, especially if you're a casual or beginner photographer. If you're just starting out or looking for an affordable way to capture those memorable travel moments, the Rebel T7 is definitely worth considering.

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What is the continuous shooting speed of the Canon EOS Rebel T7?

The Canon EOS Rebel T7 can shoot continuously at 3 frames per second (fps), as mentioned in the manufacturer's product description. This speed might be fine for everyday photography, like capturing still life or slow-moving scenes. But if you're thinking about action shots or sports, it may not be fast enough. Our research shows that the autofocus system can be a bit slow, especially when trying to keep up with moving subjects. So, even though it can shoot at 3 fps, the autofocus might struggle a bit with fast action. For casual use, portraits, or landscapes, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 is still a solid choice. Just keep in mind its limitations if you're planning on shooting a lot of fast-paced action.

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Does the Canon EOS Rebel T7 have image stabilization?

According to the manufacturer's product description, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 does have image stabilization. It's mentioned as a special feature in the camera's details. This is helpful for reducing blur caused by camera shake, which is particularly useful in low-light conditions or when using longer focal lengths. So, when you're taking photos at a dimly lit event or capturing distant subjects, the image stabilization can help keep your images clear even if you're shooting handheld without a tripod. However, the description doesn't specify whether the stabilization is digital or optical. Our research hasn't found much detailed information on its performance in reviews either. It might be a good idea to try it out yourself or check more reviews to see if it meets your needs.

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Budget Pick: Nikon D3200

Nikon D3200 24.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR with 18-55mm VR and 55-200mm Non-VR DX Zoom Lenses

For beginners on a budget, the Nikon D3200 offers exceptional value. This model is equipped with a 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor and the EXPEED 3 image processor, ensuring high-quality images. Its 3-inch LCD display and user-friendly Guide Mode make it simple for novices to start capturing great shots. With six optimized shooting modes, beginners can easily find the perfect settings for various scenarios. Despite its affordability, the Nikon D3200 doesn’t skimp on quality or features, making it the best budget pick for new photographers.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$999.99 at Amazon

Best for Travelers: Canon EOS Rebel SL2

Canon EOS Rebel SL2 with 18-55mm Digital SLR Camera Kit 2249C002 (Renewed)

If portability is a priority, the Canon EOS Rebel SL2 is an outstanding choice. This lightweight and compact DSLR is perfect for travel, featuring a 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor that captures high-resolution images. Its Dual Pixel CMOS AF offers rapid and accurate autofocus, making it easy to snap sharp photos on the go. The fully articulating touchscreen is perfect for vlogging or selfies, and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth make sharing your travel memories a breeze. The Canon EOS Rebel SL2’s portability and convenience make it the best option for travelers.

Available at Amazon

View at Amazon

Best Mirrorless Option: Sony Alpha a6100

Sony Alpha A6100 Mirrorless Camera with 16-50mm Zoom Lens, Black (ILCE6100L/B)

For those interested in exploring mirrorless technology, the Sony Alpha a6100 stands out even though it's not technically a DSLR. This mirrorless camera features a 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor and Real-Time Eye Autofocus, which ensures sharp and accurate focus on eyes, perfect for portraits. It supports impressive 4K video recording and has 425 phase-detection autofocus points for quick and precise focusing. Combining advanced features with a compact design, the Sony Alpha a6100 is an excellent choice for beginners looking to delve into mirrorless photography.

Lowest at Amazon

$698.00 at Amazon

Lowest at any Popular Retailer

$698.00 at Adorama

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