As a photography enthusiast looking to upgrade my gear without breaking the bank, I embarked on a quest to find the best budget DSLR camera under $500 in 2018. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to narrow down the choices and make a decision. However, armed with research and reviews, I set out to find the perfect balance of quality and affordability in a DSLR camera.
After comparing features, image quality, and user reviews, I discovered some standout contenders that offered impressive performance within my budget. These cameras not only provided excellent image quality and versatility but also offered a range of features that catered to both beginners and seasoned photographers alike. I was excited to delve deeper into the world of budget DSLR cameras and find the perfect fit for my photography needs.
In this article, I will share my findings and insights on the best budget DSLR cameras under $500 in 2018. Whether you are a budding photographer or a hobbyist looking to upgrade your equipment, these cameras offer a compelling mix of affordability and performance that will elevate your photography experience without breaking the bank.
Best DSLR Camera Under $500 in 2018
In 2018, I was on the lookout for an affordable DSLR camera that would offer high-quality images without breaking my budget. After researching various options, I found a few standout models that fit the bill.
One of the top contenders in the under $500 range was the Canon EOS Rebel T6. This DSLR camera features an 18.0 megapixel CMOS sensor and a DIGIC 4+ image processor, delivering excellent image quality and performance. With built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, it allows for easy sharing of photos and videos. The Rebel T6 also comes with an EF-S 18-55mm lens, making it a great starter kit for beginners.
Key Features:
- 18.0 megapixel CMOS sensor
- DIGIC 4+ image processor
- Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity
- EF-S 18-55mm lens included
Exploring the Canon EOS Rebel T6
As an aspiring photographer on a budget, I was intrigued by the Canon EOS Rebel T6. This DSLR camera offers impressive features at an affordable price point, making it a great option for beginners looking to step up their photography game.
One of the standout features of the Canon EOS Rebel T6 is its 18.0 megapixel CMOS image sensor, which delivers high-quality images with vibrant colors and sharp details. Paired with the DIGIC 4+ Image Processor, this camera ensures fast and accurate image processing, allowing you to capture stunning photos with ease.
- Easy to Use: The Canon EOS Rebel T6 is designed with beginners in mind, featuring intuitive controls and a user-friendly interface. With built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, you can easily share your photos and videos on the go.
- Great Performance: Despite its budget-friendly price, the Canon EOS Rebel T6 performs exceptionally well in various shooting conditions. With an ISO range of 100-6400 (expandable to 12800), you can capture clear and detailed images even in low-light environments.
- Value for Money: The Canon EOS Rebel T6 offers excellent value for money, providing a solid combination of image quality, performance, and features at an affordable price. Whether you’re a hobbyist or a budding professional, this camera is a versatile choice for capturing memorable moments.
My Experience with the Nikon D3400
As an amateur photographer looking for a budget DSLR camera under $500, I decided to give the Nikon D3400 a try. I was pleasantly surprised by its performance and features.
The Nikon D3400 is a compact and lightweight camera that is easy to carry around. It has a 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor that delivers sharp and detailed images, even in low light conditions.
- The camera has a user-friendly interface, making it easy for beginners to navigate and learn how to use different settings.
- The D3400 also has built-in Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to easily transfer photos to your smartphone or tablet for quick sharing on social media.
- One of the standout features of the D3400 is its long battery life, allowing you to shoot hundreds of photos on a single charge.
Exploring the Canon EOS 1300D
If you’re on the lookout for a budget-friendly DSLR camera that delivers quality performance, the Canon EOS 1300D might just be the perfect choice for you. This entry-level camera is packed with features that make it a great option for beginners and enthusiasts alike.
Equipped with an 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor and a DIGIC 4+ image processor, the Canon EOS 1300D delivers high-quality images with excellent detail and clarity. Its ISO range of 100-6400 (expandable to 12800) ensures that you can capture stunning shots even in low-light conditions.
- The Canon EOS 1300D features a 3-inch LCD screen, which is ideal for composing your shots and reviewing your images.
- With built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, you can easily share your photos and videos with friends and family or transfer them to your smartphone or tablet.
- Whether you’re capturing beautiful landscapes, portraits, or action shots, the Canon EOS 1300D offers a range of shooting modes and creative filters to help you unleash your creativity.
Nikon D3300 Review
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable DSLR camera under $500, the Nikon D3300 is a great choice. I recently purchased this camera and have been extremely impressed with its performance and features.
One of the standout features of the Nikon D3300 is its 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor, which delivers stunning image quality with vibrant colours and sharp details. The camera also offers a wide ISO range, allowing you to capture great shots in low light conditions.
- The D3300 has an impressive 11-point autofocus system that ensures your subjects are always in focus, whether you’re shooting stills or videos.
- It also has a continuous shooting speed of 5 frames per second, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects.
- The camera’s compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry around for all-day shooting sessions.
My Experience with the Pentax K-70
As an amateur photographer looking for a budget-friendly DSLR camera under $500, I came across the Pentax K-70 and decided to give it a try. The camera boasts impressive features and capabilities that make it a great choice for both beginners and enthusiasts.
One of the standout features of the Pentax K-70 is its weather-sealed body, which provides protection against dust and moisture. This is particularly useful for outdoor photography, allowing me to shoot in various weather conditions without worrying about damaging the camera.
- The 24-megapixel APS-C sensor delivers sharp and detailed images, while the in-body image stabilization helps reduce camera shake and ensures crisp photos even in low light conditions.
- The camera’s ISO range of 100-102400 allows for versatile shooting in different lighting situations, and the 11-point autofocus system ensures quick and accurate focusing.
- Additionally, the Pentax K-70 offers built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, a vari-angle LCD screen, and Full HD video recording capabilities, making it a versatile tool for capturing both stills and videos.
Sony Alpha a6000: My Budget-Friendly DSLR Pick
When it comes to finding the perfect budget DSLR camera under $500, the Sony Alpha a6000 is a standout choice. As a photography enthusiast, I was impressed by the a6000’s compact size and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around for extended photo shoots.
One of the key features that drew me to the Sony Alpha a6000 was its impressive image quality. With a 24.3-megapixel sensor and fast autofocus system, this camera delivers stunning, high-resolution photos that rival more expensive models on the market.
- The a6000 also offers a range of advanced features, such as Wi-Fi connectivity for easy sharing and remote shooting, as well as a tilting LCD screen for versatile shooting angles.
- Overall, the Sony Alpha a6000 is a top choice for budget-conscious photographers looking for a reliable, high-performance DSLR camera under $500.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7: The Best Budget DSLR Camera Under $500 in 2018
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7 is a standout choice for those looking for a budget-friendly DSLR camera. With its impressive features and capabilities, the Lumix DMC-G7 offers excellent value for money.
Featuring a 16-megapixel sensor, 4K video recording, and a 3-inch tilting touchscreen, the Lumix DMC-G7 delivers stunning image quality and versatility. Its fast autofocus system and advanced shooting modes make it perfect for both beginners and experienced photographers.
- Pros:
- 4K video recording
- 16-megapixel sensor
- Fast autofocus
- Great value for money
In conclusion, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7 is the best budget DSLR camera under $500 in 2018. Its combination of features, performance, and affordability make it a top choice for anyone looking to step up their photography game without breaking the bank.
Best budget dslr camera under 5002018
Panasonic LUMIX FZ300 Long Zoom Digital Camera Features 12.1 Megapixel, 1/2.3-Inch Sensor, 4K Video, WiFi, Splash & Dustproof Camera Body, LEICA DC 24X F2.8 Zoom Lens - DMC-FZ300K - (Black) USA
9 used from $328.06
Features
- 4K video and 4K photo: Panasonic’s exclusive 4K photo technology uses 30 frames per second in high resolution 4K ultra HD video to extract them as photos; You’ll never miss that moment again
- Leica DC Vario Elmarit lens: 24x zoom (25 600 millimeter with Full zoom range F2; 8 aperture for enhanced low light shooting meeting the stringent quality standards established by Leica
- High image Quality: The 12.1 Megapixel high sensitivity MOS sensor with the venus engine excels in diffraction compensation, yielding images that are crisp and Free from artifacts associated with small aperture settings
- Rugged Camera Design: Splash Proof/dustproof rugged camera design with tight seals on every Joint, dial and button, so it stands up to harsh weather conditions and challenging
- 5 Axis Hybrid Optical Image Stabilizer Plus: Reduces blur from 1 handed video shooting by compensating for 5 types of movement; Level shot function detects horizon line and maintains it, even if the camera is tilted
| Price history for Panasonic LUMIX FZ300 Long Zoom Digital Camera Features 12.1 Megapixel, 1/2.3-Inch Sensor, 4K Video, WiFi, Splash & Dustproof Camera Body, LEICA DC 24X F2.8 Zoom Lens - DMC-FZ300K - (Black) USA | |
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Canon EOS 4000D / Rebel T100 DSLR Camera w/EF-S 18-55mm F/3.5-5.6 Zoom Lens + 64GB Memory, Filters,Case, Tripod, Flash, and More (34pc Bundle)
Features
| Part Number | CN-4000D-1855FLK-120623 |
| Model | 4000D |
| Warranty | 1 Year Seller Supplied |
| Color | Black |
| Price history for Canon EOS 4000D / Rebel T100 DSLR Camera w/EF-S 18-55mm F/3.5-5.6 Zoom Lens + 64GB Memory, Filters,Case, Tripod, Flash, and More (34pc Bundle) | |
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VILTROX DC-70 II 7 inch Camera Field Monitor, 4K HDMI AV Input/Output Camera Video Monitor Kit with Sunshade Hood/Battery, Peaking Focus Assist Filming Video Monitor for DSLR Cameras Camcorder
$129.99
Features
- Featuring a 7 inch 178° wide view angle IPS panel and 21.5mm ultra thin design with LED backlight, HD 1024 x 600 resolution, 450cd/m² of brightness, a contrast ratio of 1200:1, and an aspect ratio of 16:10, produces excellent image quality and great visual experience for the photographer’s professional needs.
- Functional camera file monitor: Includes monitoring tools such as Color Temperature Settings, False-color, Peaking Focus Assist, Histogram, Monochrome, Zooming Pixel, Safe Frames, Image Flip(H/V), Image Freeze, Check Field, Pixel to Pixel etc.
- As a professional monitor, it has HDMI input/output, AV input, headphone jack and USB upgrade port; can act as a perfect field external display to transmit real-time 4K video signal from Mirrorless camera/digital video camera/ digital camcorder.
- Outdoor and Indoor using supported: power supply by AC adapter or Battery, but only NP-F550 battery and battery charging cable is included. Also compatible with other NP-F series (570/750/770/960/970) batteries with larger capacity.
- Detachable sunshade can avoid the strong light in better viewing effect when this 4K camera monitor works and protect the screen in travel. The standard cold shoe adapter allows you to adjust several directions for monitor and works with DSLR, Cameras, camcorders, handheld stabilizers etc.
| Price history for VILTROX DC-70 II 7 inch Camera Field Monitor, 4K HDMI AV Input/Output Camera Video Monitor Kit with Sunshade Hood/Battery, Peaking Focus Assist Filming Video Monitor for DSLR Cameras Camcorder | |
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Canon Cameras EOS 2000D / Rebel T7 Digital SLR Camera Body w/Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens 3 DSLR Kit Bundled with Complete Accessory Bundle+ 64GB+ Flash+ More - International Model (Renewed)
Features
- Deluxe Bundle with: Camera, 18-55mm Lens, Wide-angle & Telephoto, 64gb, Case, Filter Kit, Flash, Tripod & More|
- 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor - DIGIC 4+ Image Processor - 3.0'' 920k-Dot LCD Monitor
- Full HD 1080p Video Recording at 30 fps - 9-point AF System & AI Servo AF - Extended ISO 12800, 3 fps Shooting
- Built-In Wi-Fi with NFC - Scene Intelligent Auto Mode - Basic+ & Creative Auto Modes - On-board Feature Guide
- Canon EOS 2000D is kn as Canon EOS Rebel T7 - International Model, No Manufacturers
| Price history for Canon Cameras EOS 2000D / Rebel T7 Digital SLR Camera Body w/Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens 3 DSLR Kit Bundled with Complete Accessory Bundle+ 64GB+ Flash+ More - International Model (Renewed) | |
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Canon EOS 4000D / Rebel T100 DSLR Camera w/EF-S 18-55mm F/3.5-5.6 Zoom Lens + 64GB Memory, Filters,Case, Tripod, Flash, and More (34pc Bundle) (Renewed)
Features
- This Al’s Variety Camera Bundle Includes Transcend 64GB Class 10 SD Memory Card,58mm Filter KIt, 58mm Tulip Hood, Tripod, Camera Gadget Bag Case, Tripod, Gripster tripod, Wrist Grip, Video/Photo Editing Software Pack, Battery Charger , Slave Flash, Lens Cap , Body Cap ,Neck Strap , AL’s Variety Lens Cleaning Cloth + 1 Year Seller Supplied Warranty , And Includes :
- Canon EOS 4000D Camera Body (International Version )- 18.0MP APS-C CMOS Sensor,DIGIC 4+ Image Processor, 6.8 cm (2.7") TFT LCD, approx. 230 K dots,,Full HD 1080p Video Recording at 29.97 fps ,9 Point Auto Focus,Dual,Up to 3 fps Shooting and ISO 12800, Scene Intelligent Auto, Instantly transfer photos and movies to your smart device, for easy sharing on social media or cloud backup, and shoot remotely with Wi-Fi and the Canon Connect app,
- Canon EF-S 18-55mm F/3.5-5.6 DC III Zoom Lens - EF-S-Mount Lens/APS-C Format, 28.8-88mm (35mm Equivalent) ,Aperture Range: f/3.5 to f/38 ,One Aspherical Element ,Super Spectra Coating ,Micro Motor AF System , Rounded 6-Blade Diaphragm
- Get easy guidance on DSLR photography with Canon’s Photo Companion app (downloadable for Android and iOS). Add lenses and accessories or take manual control when you’re ready, Capture the moment just as you remember it with precise auto focus, 3.0 fps and DIGIC 4+. Easily frame your shots with the optical viewfinder and see results on a 6.8 cm LCD screen,
- Just frame and shoot for great results with Scene Intelligent Auto. Enjoy guided Live View shooting with Creative Auto mode and add unique finishes with Creative Filters.Shoot with confidence ,Capture the moment just as you remember it with precise auto focus, 3.0 fps and DIGIC 4+. Easily frame your shots with the optical viewfinder and see results on a 2.7 Inch (6.8 cm) LCD
| Price history for Canon EOS 4000D / Rebel T100 DSLR Camera w/EF-S 18-55mm F/3.5-5.6 Zoom Lens + 64GB Memory, Filters,Case, Tripod, Flash, and More (34pc Bundle) (Renewed) | |
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5K Digital Camera for Photography Autofocus 48MP Vlogging Camera for YouTube 16X Digital Zoom Point and Shoot Cameras with SD Card, 2 Batteries, Viewfinder & Mode Dial
$129.99
Features
- 【2024 Latest Digital Camera Autofocus】- The vlogging camera records 5K 30FPS videos and captures stunning high-resolution 48MP photos with advanced 6-axis gyroscope autofocus, producing sharp and clear images. With dual cameras is perfect for photography and videography enthusiasts, shooting photos, and 12MP rear camera helps a lot for selfie. Even if you're new to photography, you can capture amazing pictures easily.
- 【Multifunctional Video Camera】- Digital camera for photography with variety of features- including front camera for selfie, continuous shooting, time-laspe shooting, slow-motion, anti-shake, self-timer, and 16X digital zoom. These features provide endless creative possibilities for shooting. Vlogging camera for youtube also with pause function, helps you save lots of editing time. While the built-in flash ensures clear photos even in low-light conditions.
- 【Retro and Portable Camera】- The 5k video camera with silver and black splicing design is stylish and atmospheric, making it a trendy accessory for capturing high-quality photos on the go. Compact camera only 0.5lbs, measuring 4.6*2.8*1.8inches, which makes it incredibly lightweight and easy to carry.
- 【Mode Dial and Viewfinder】- With viewfinder on this point and shoot digital cameras, you can view real-time images from the screen to facilitate your composition, allow you produce more perfect photos. This camera for youtube also with a mode dial allows you simply switch between different modes by twisting the rotary button which will definitely improve your using experience.
- 【Webcam and HD Output】- 5K digital camera has multiple uses, including as a webcam for social media platforms. Vlog camera can be connected to a TV or computer for viewing and fast uploading. With its versatile features, this youtube camera is perfect for a wide range of uses, from vlogging to travel photography to sports and more. If you have any problems with this camera, please feel free to contact us.
| Price history for 5K Digital Camera for Photography Autofocus 48MP Vlogging Camera for YouTube 16X Digital Zoom Point and Shoot Cameras with SD Card, 2 Batteries, Viewfinder & Mode Dial | |
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Canon EOS Rebel T100 / 4000D DSLR Camera (w/ 18-55 III) (Renewed)
Features
- Shoot detailed images into the night with a large 18 Megapixel sensor, with up to 19x more surface area than many smartphones
- Instantly review results on the user-friendly, 6.8 cm (2.7) LCD screen
- See the world through the optical viewfinder and experience the creative power of interchangeable lenses
- Enjoy fast Auto Focus and full resolution shooting at 3.0 fps - just point and shoot for impressive results with Scene Intelligent Auto
- Take fun-filled selfies and unique images from unusual angles with easy remote control from your compatible smartphone
| Price history for Canon EOS Rebel T100 / 4000D DSLR Camera (w/ 18-55 III) (Renewed) | |
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DSLR Camera, D5 F=2.7 2.95mm 4K 64MP 16X Zoom Digital Camera HD Night Vision, 62mm Macro Lens 120° Wide Angle Video Camera with Fill Light & Microphone, WiFi Interconnection
Features
- FILTER FUNCTION & COMPUTER INTERCONNECTION: Beauty filter and front and rear dual camera make selfie easier, HD lens, multi function photography adjustment, support a variety of filter functions, make photos more colorful. Support computer interconnection, can be used as an external computer camera to make the camera has more possibilities.
- 3 INCH SCREEN WIDE ANGLE ZOOM: 3in IPS screen, the resolution of 480x852, 120 degree wide angle record every frame of the wonderful moments, 16X digital zoom, at the same time with anti shake optimization function.
- HD NIGHT VISION SHOOTING: Maximum 4K 64 megapixels, HD night vision photography, when the lens senses changes light IR CUT switching, so that the dim environment can also be photographed.
- MACRO LENS SHOOTING: With 62mm macro lens, long press the photo button in any interface to directly open the video, will not miss any wonderful moment.
- LARGE CAPACITY BATTERY: 4800mAh built in optimized high capacity lithium battery, intelligent resting screen can continue the current operation after the resting screen, measured more than six hours of continuous use.
| Price history for DSLR Camera, D5 F=2.7 2.95mm 4K 64MP 16X Zoom Digital Camera HD Night Vision, 62mm Macro Lens 120° Wide Angle Video Camera with Fill Light & Microphone, WiFi Interconnection | |
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FEELWORLD FW568 V3 6 inch DSLR Camera Field Monitor with Waveform LUTs Video Peaking Focus Assist 1920x1080 IPS with 4K HDMI 8.4V DC Input Output
Features
- 【Enjoy Sharper and More Detailed Image】With 6 inch 1920 x 1080 high resolution, Rec.709 color calibration, FW568 can be added to any cameras to ensure perfect focus and framing. The small form-factor and 175g lightweight construction are perfect for shooters on the go. 【Used Versions is 5.5 inch without type-c interface and Waveform LUT function】
- 【4K HDMI Input/ Output Without Delay】Support 4K format: 4K UHD 3840X2160p (30/29.97/25/24/23.98Hz), 4096X2160p (24Hz). Directly to any DSLR or HD/4K video camera, and send the signal to other monitors, convenient for directors and photographers to monitor simultaneously.
- 【Waveform and 3D LUT】Through the USB interface support to load 32 custom LUTs, to preview filming look in field shooting. The waveform monitoring can help you analyze image quality more accurately. 【The used version not with waveform and LUT】
- 【Ideal for Small Camera/ HDSLR Production】More than just a monitor or a camera power supply system. FW568 with 8.4V DC output could power your camera to extend the run-time. Dummy Battery (optional for Sony, Canon, Nikon, Panasonic). Integrates with a dual-purpose battery plate: compatible Sony F970, Canon LP-E6.
- 【Package Include】1× FW568 Monitor,1× Micro HDMI Cable, 1× Sunshade, 1× Tilt Arm, 1× Manual【Note: battery and power adapter not include】
| Price history for FEELWORLD FW568 V3 6 inch DSLR Camera Field Monitor with Waveform LUTs Video Peaking Focus Assist 1920x1080 IPS with 4K HDMI 8.4V DC Input Output | |
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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
Features
- 24.1 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor with is 100–6400 (H: 12800)
- Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC technology
- 9-Point AF system and AI Servo AF
- Optical Viewfinder with approx 95% viewing coverage
- Use the EOS Utility Webcam Beta Software (Mac and Windows) to turn your compatible Canon camera into a high-quality webcam. Compatible Lenses- Canon EF Lenses (including EF-S lenses, excluding EF-M lenses)
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Q&A:
What is the best budget DSLR camera under $500 in 2018?
In 2018, one of the best budget DSLR cameras under $500 was the Canon EOS Rebel T6. It offered a good balance of features, image quality, and affordability.
Are there any other options for budget DSLR cameras under $500 in 2018?
Yes, another option for a budget DSLR camera under $500 in 2018 was the Nikon D3400. It was praised for its image quality, ease of use, and overall value for money.
What features should I look for in a budget DSLR camera under $500 in 2018?
When looking for a budget DSLR camera under $500 in 2018, consider features such as image quality, autofocus performance, ease of use, and any additional accessories or lenses that may be included in the package.
