As a photography enthusiast on a budget, finding a high-quality DSLR camera that doesn’t break the bank can be a challenging task. Fortunately, there are several excellent options available for under $400 that offer impressive features and performance. In this article, we will delve into some of the best DSLR cameras in this price range and explore their key specifications and capabilities.
From entry-level models to more advanced options, these cameras provide a range of functionalities to suit various photography needs. Whether you’re a beginner looking to upgrade from a point-and-shoot camera or a seasoned photographer seeking a reliable backup camera, there are affordable DSLRs that can meet your requirements without compromising on quality.
My Experience with Finding the Best DSLR Camera Under 400 Dollars
When I decided to invest in a DSLR camera, I wanted to find the best option within my budget of $400. After thorough research and comparing various models, I finally found a camera that met all my requirements without breaking the bank.
One of the key factors I considered was the image quality. I was impressed by the camera’s ability to capture sharp and detailed photos, even in low light conditions. The camera’s autofocus system was also quick and accurate, allowing me to capture fast-moving subjects with ease.
- Compact Design: Despite its powerful features, the camera had a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around for long hours of shooting.
- Full HD Video Recording: Another highlight of the camera was its ability to record full HD videos with high-quality audio, providing me with versatile options for creative projects.
- Interchangeable Lenses: The camera came with a variety of interchangeable lenses, allowing me to experiment with different focal lengths and perspectives to enhance my photography skills.
My Experience with the Nikon D3500 DSLR Camera
As an avid photographer, I recently purchased the Nikon D3500 DSLR camera and have been thoroughly impressed with its performance. The camera boasts a compact and lightweight design, making it easy to carry around for all my photography adventures.
One of the standout features of the Nikon D3500 is its impressive image quality. The camera’s 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor delivers stunning, high-resolution images with vibrant colours and sharp details. Whether I’m capturing landscapes, portraits, or action shots, the D3500 consistently produces excellent results.
Key Features of the Nikon D3500:
- 18-55mm VR Lens: The included lens provides versatile focal lengths for a wide range of shooting scenarios.
- Full HD Video Recording: The D3500 can shoot full HD videos at 60fps, allowing me to capture smooth and high-quality footage.
- Guide Mode: Perfect for beginners, the camera’s Guide Mode helps me navigate through various settings and features, making it easy to learn and improve my photography skills.
- Long Battery Life: With a single charge, the D3500 can capture up to 1,550 shots, ensuring I never miss a moment during my photo sessions.
My Experience with the Canon EOS Rebel T7
As an avid photographer looking for a reliable DSLR camera within a budget, I recently came across the Canon EOS Rebel T7. This entry-level camera has exceeded my expectations in terms of performance and value for money.
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 boasts a 24.1-megapixel CMOS sensor that delivers high-quality images with crisp details and vibrant colours. Its DIGIC 4+ image processor ensures fast processing speeds, allowing me to capture moments with precision and clarity.
- The camera’s 9-point autofocus system provides accurate focus on subjects, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving scenes.
- With an ISO range of 100-6400 (expandable to 12800), the Canon EOS Rebel T7 performs well in various lighting conditions, producing noise-free images even in low light.
- The camera’s Full HD 1080p video recording capability allows me to capture high-definition videos with ease, making it a versatile tool for both photography and videography.
My Experience with the Nikon D3400
Having used the Nikon D3400 extensively, I can confidently say that it is a reliable and versatile DSLR camera that offers great value for its price. The camera’s compact size and lightweight body make it easy to carry around for extended periods, making it ideal for travel photography and on-the-go shooting.
One standout feature of the Nikon D3400 is its impressive image quality, thanks to the 24.2-megapixel APS-C sensor that delivers sharp and detailed photos with vibrant colors. The camera’s ISO range of 100-25600 ensures excellent performance in various lighting conditions, allowing for clear and noise-free images even in low light.
- The D3400’s battery life is excellent, providing enough power for a full day of shooting without the need for frequent recharging.
- The camera’s Guide Mode is perfect for beginners, offering step-by-step assistance and tips for learning photography techniques and settings.
- With Bluetooth connectivity, transferring photos to a smartphone or tablet is quick and easy, enabling instant sharing on social media.
Exploring the Canon EOS Rebel T6
If you are in the market for a reliable DSLR camera that won’t break the bank, the Canon EOS Rebel T6 is definitely worth considering. As an avid photographer, I was drawn to its impressive features and affordable price point.
One standout feature of the Canon EOS Rebel T6 is its 18.0 Megapixel CMOS sensor, which delivers stunning image quality and clarity. Whether you are capturing landscapes or portraits, this camera ensures that every detail is preserved with precision.
Key Highlights of the Canon EOS Rebel T6:
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: Share your photos instantly with the built-in Wi-Fi feature.
- Full HD Video: Capture high-quality videos with ease using the 1080p Full HD video recording capability.
- Scene Intelligent Auto Mode: Let the camera do the work for you with this intelligent mode that automatically adjusts settings for optimal results.
- 3.0-inch LCD Screen: Frame your shots perfectly and review your images on the bright and clear LCD screen.
Sony Alpha A6000: My Experience with this Budget-Friendly DSLR
As a photography enthusiast on a budget, I was thrilled to discover the Sony Alpha A6000. This mirrorless camera offers impressive performance and quality at an affordable price point, making it a great choice for both beginners and more experienced photographers.
One of the standout features of the Sony Alpha A6000 is its fast and accurate autofocus system, which makes it easy to capture sharp, clear images in a variety of shooting conditions. The camera also boasts a high-resolution electronic viewfinder and a tilting LCD screen, making it versatile and user-friendly.
- The camera’s compact size and lightweight design make it perfect for travel and on-the-go shooting.
- With built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, it’s easy to share photos and videos directly from the camera to your smartphone or tablet.
- The Sony Alpha A6000 offers a wide range of customizable settings and shooting modes, allowing you to tailor your photography experience to suit your style and preferences.
Pentax K-70: A Budget-Friendly DSLR Camera
When it comes to finding a quality DSLR camera without breaking the bank, the Pentax K-70 is a fantastic option to consider. With its affordable price tag, this camera offers great value for amateur photographers looking to step up their game.
The Pentax K-70 boasts impressive features such as a 24-megapixel APS-C sensor, weather-sealed body, and in-body image stabilization. These features make it a versatile and reliable camera for capturing sharp and clear images in various shooting conditions.
- Impressive Image Quality: The 24-megapixel sensor delivers high-resolution images with excellent detail and clarity.
- Weather-Sealed Body: The weather-sealed construction of the Pentax K-70 ensures durability and protection against dust and moisture.
- In-Body Image Stabilization: The in-body image stabilization feature helps reduce camera shake, allowing for sharper images, especially in low-light situations.
My Experience with the Canon EOS Rebel SL1
As an avid photographer on a budget, I was on the lookout for a reliable DSLR camera that would not break the bank. After doing extensive research, I came across the Canon EOS Rebel SL1, and I must say, I have been extremely impressed with its performance.
One of the standout features of the Canon EOS Rebel SL1 is its compact size and lightweight design, making it perfect for on-the-go shooting. Despite its small stature, this camera packs a punch with its 18-megapixel sensor and DIGIC 5 image processor, delivering stunning image quality every time.
- High-Quality Images: The Canon EOS Rebel SL1 produces sharp, vibrant images with excellent detail, even in low-light conditions.
- Easy to Use: The intuitive interface and touchscreen display make it easy to navigate through settings and adjust parameters on the fly.
- Fast Autofocus: The camera’s fast and accurate autofocus system ensures that you never miss a shot, whether you’re capturing a fast-moving subject or a still life.
Conclusion
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II is a versatile and powerful camera that offers great value for its price. With its compact size, impressive image quality, and advanced features, it is a great option for both beginners and experienced photographers looking for a reliable and high-quality camera.
While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive DSLRs, the E-M10 Mark II more than makes up for it with its portability, ease of use, and excellent image stabilization. Whether you’re capturing everyday moments or diving into more creative photography, this camera is a solid choice that won’t break the bank.
Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design
- Excellent image quality
- Impressive image stabilization
- Advanced features for creative control
Cons:
- Smaller sensor size compared to some DSLRs
- Limited lens selection for Micro Four Thirds format
Best dslr camera under 400 dollars
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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Light L16 - 4K Multi-Lense 52MP Pocket-Sized DSLR-Quality Camera with Built-in Wifi, Touchscreen, Software Updated Built-in 256GB Storage (New)
Features
- On-Camera Editing and this compact camera captures the details of your scene at multiple focal lengths, then uses sophisticated algorithms to combine 10+ images into a single, high-resolution photo.
- Light's advanced image-processing engine captures 51.1 megapixels of rich data, creating high-quality images with striking details, realistic colors, and significantly less noise. Photographers have the creative freedom they need to zoom, crop, enlarge, and ultimately bring their vision to life.
- 3 stops of dynamic range and unlike most cameras, the L16 captures multiple images at different exposure values. When combined, final photos boast an impressively wide dynamic range—around 13 stops.
- Weighing just less than a pound, the L16 offers convenience without sacrificing quality. Now, photographers can take professional-quality photos wherever they go.
- Built-in Wifi, On screen editing, Bluetooth, Software Updates, 52 Megapixels, 16 Lenses, Optimized Low Light Capability, etc. The Light L16 has so much to offer!
| Price history for Light L16 - 4K Multi-Lense 52MP Pocket-Sized DSLR-Quality Camera with Built-in Wifi, Touchscreen, Software Updated Built-in 256GB Storage (New) | |
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Canon EOS Rebel T100 DSLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 III Lens, 18MP APS-C CMOS Sensor, Built-in Wi-Fi, Optical Viewfinder, Impressive Images & Full HD Videos, includes 32GB SD Card
Features
- DSLR quality photos & full HD movies
- Powerful 18 Megapixel sensor & precise auto focus
- 3.0 frames per second
- Canon Camera Connect App: share instantly & shoot remotely via compatible smartphone
- Easily frame your shots with the optical viewfinder
| Price history for Canon EOS Rebel T100 DSLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 III Lens, 18MP APS-C CMOS Sensor, Built-in Wi-Fi, Optical Viewfinder, Impressive Images & Full HD Videos, includes 32GB SD Card | |
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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)
$399.00
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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Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Digital SLR Camera (Body Only), Full-Frame DSLR Camera, 30.4 Megapixel CMOS Sensor, 4K Video, Content Creator Camera, EF Mount, Black
Features
- New 30.4 Megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor for versatile shooting in nearly any light, with ISO range 100-32000; expandable up to 50-102400 (equivalent ISO).
- 4K Motion JPEG video (DCI cinema-type 4096 x 2160) at 30p or 24p; in- camera still frame grab of 4K 8.8-Megapixel images; multiple video options include Full HD up to 60p, and HD up to 120p.
- Superb Dual Pixel CMOS AF for responsive and smooth AF during video or live view shooting; LCD monitor has a full touchscreen interface, including selection of AF area.
- Excellent performance - up to 7.0 fps continuous shooting speed with high-performance DIGIC 6+ Image Processor for improved speed and excellent image quality.
- Use the EOS Utility Webcam Beta Software (Mac and Windows) to turn your Canon camera into a high-quality webcam, or do the same using a clean HDMI output.
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Canon EOS R100 Mirrorless Camera, RF Mount, 24.1 MP, DIGIC 8 Image Processor, Continuous Shooting, Eye Detection AF, Full HD Video, 4K, Small, Lightweight, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Content Creation
$299.00
1 used from $399.00
Features
- Compact, lightweight EOS R series camera with an affordable price
- Smallest and lightest camera body in the EOS R series1 built for excellent mobility
- High image quality with a 24.1 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor and DIGIC 8 processor
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF covering a wide area2 up to 143 zones with auto subject detection and Eye Detection AF available with Servo AF.
- Continuous capture of up to 6.5 shots per second when set to One-Shot AF
| Price history for Canon EOS R100 Mirrorless Camera, RF Mount, 24.1 MP, DIGIC 8 Image Processor, Continuous Shooting, Eye Detection AF, Full HD Video, 4K, Small, Lightweight, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Content Creation | |
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Canon EOS R8 Mirrorless Camera RF24-50mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens Kit, Full-Frame Hybrid Camera, 24.2 Megapixel CMOS Image Sensor, 4K Video, Content Creator Vlogging Camera, Black
$1,499.00
1 used from $1,389.95
Features
- Step up to full-frame with Canon’s lightest full-frame RF Mount mirrorless camera featuring a 24.2 million pixel CMOS image sensor and DIGIC X Image Processor.
- An affordable and compact camera with built-in 0.39” 2.36 million dots OLED EVF up to 120 fps refresh rate and 3.0” 1.62 million dots vari-angle LCD touchscreen.
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF II covering up to 100% x 100% area with 1,053 AF zones with automatic subject detection of people, animals, and vehicles using deep learning technology, now including aircraft (jet planes and helicopters), trains, and horses.
- Uncropped 4K movie at up to 60 fps that is oversampled from 6K, Full HD High-frame rate movie recording at up to 180 fps2, and Canon Log 3 or HDR PQ. Max movie record time of 2 hours3 and UVC / UAC for webcam and streaming4
- Achieves high image quality such as improved resolution at low ISO speeds and low noise at high ISO speeds, wide dynamic range of still pictures, and significant improvement in rolling shutter compared to previous Canon cameras when shooting fast-moving subjects and quick panning.
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KODAK PIXPRO AZ405-WH 20MP Digital Camera 40X Optical Zoom 24mm Wide Angle Lens Optical Image Stabilization 1080P Full HD Video 3" LCD Vlogging Camera (White), Full Frame
$179.99
3 used from $126.90
Features
- 40X Optical Zoom - 24mm Wide Angle Lens
- 20 Megapixel CMOS Sensor
- 1080P Full HD Video - Vlogging Camera
- SD Card Compatibility: At least Class 10, no more than 512GB (SD, SDHC, SDXC)
- 3" LCD Screen - Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) - AA Batteries
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![Canon DSLR Camera [EOS 90D] with Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, DIGIC 8 Image Processor, 4K Video, Dual Pixel CMOS AF, and 3.0 Inch Vari-Angle Touch LCD Screen, [Body Only], Black](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41JtOF3xVBL._SS520_.jpg)
Canon DSLR Camera [EOS 90D] with Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, DIGIC 8 Image Processor, 4K Video, Dual Pixel CMOS AF, and 3.0 Inch Vari-Angle Touch LCD Screen, [Body Only], Black
Features
- High image quality with 32.5 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor
- High-speed continuous shooting of up to 10 fps with no time Lag during ovf shooting
- 4K UHD 30P/ Full HD 120P video
- 45-Point All Cross-type AF System supports up to 27 points with an F/8 metering
- Use the EOS Utility Webcam Beta Software (Mac and Windows) to turn your Canon camera into a high-quality webcam, or do the same using a clean HDMI output.
![Canon DSLR Camera [EOS 90D] with Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, DIGIC 8 Image Processor, 4K Video, Dual Pixel CMOS AF, and 3.0 Inch Vari-Angle Touch LCD Screen, [Body Only], Black](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31xOOWilbdL._SL500_.jpg)
![Canon DSLR Camera [EOS 90D] with Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, DIGIC 8 Image Processor, 4K Video, Dual Pixel CMOS AF, and 3.0 Inch Vari-Angle Touch LCD Screen, [Body Only], Black](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41yClB-IdFL._SL500_.jpg)
![Canon DSLR Camera [EOS 90D] with Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, DIGIC 8 Image Processor, 4K Video, Dual Pixel CMOS AF, and 3.0 Inch Vari-Angle Touch LCD Screen, [Body Only], Black](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/515DVSEuXnL._SL500_.jpg)
![Canon DSLR Camera [EOS 90D] with Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, DIGIC 8 Image Processor, 4K Video, Dual Pixel CMOS AF, and 3.0 Inch Vari-Angle Touch LCD Screen, [Body Only], Black](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51uFEemvpeL._SL500_.jpg)
![Canon DSLR Camera [EOS 90D] with Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, DIGIC 8 Image Processor, 4K Video, Dual Pixel CMOS AF, and 3.0 Inch Vari-Angle Touch LCD Screen, [Body Only], Black](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51uQpdj8HZL._SL500_.jpg)
![Canon DSLR Camera [EOS 90D] with Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, DIGIC 8 Image Processor, 4K Video, Dual Pixel CMOS AF, and 3.0 Inch Vari-Angle Touch LCD Screen, [Body Only], Black](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/31ES9DANSCL._SL500_.jpg)
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![Canon DSLR Camera [EOS 90D] with 18-135 IS USM Lens | Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, DIGIC 8 Image Processor, 4K Video, Dual Pixel CMOS AF, and 3.0 Inch Vari-Angle Touch LCD Screen, Black](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51LGtxwNfXL._SS520_.jpg)
Canon DSLR Camera [EOS 90D] with 18-135 IS USM Lens | Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, DIGIC 8 Image Processor, 4K Video, Dual Pixel CMOS AF, and 3.0 Inch Vari-Angle Touch LCD Screen, Black
1 used from $1,589.00
Features
- High image quality with 32.5 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor
- High-speed continuous shooting of up to 10 fps with no time Lag during off shooting
- 4K UHD 30P/ Full HD 120P video
- 45-Point All Cross-type AF System supports up to 27 points with an F/8 metering
- Use the EOS Utility Webcam Beta Software (Mac and Windows) to turn your Canon camera into a high-quality webcam, or do the same using a clean HDMI output.
![Canon DSLR Camera [EOS 90D] with 18-135 IS USM Lens | Built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, DIGIC 8 Image Processor, 4K Video, Dual Pixel CMOS AF, and 3.0 Inch Vari-Angle Touch LCD Screen, Black](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41E7qP3YamL._SL500_.jpg)
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Q&A:
What is the best DSLR camera under 400 dollars?
One of the top choices for a DSLR camera under $400 is the Canon EOS Rebel T7. It offers good image quality, easy handling, and a variety of features for both beginners and enthusiasts.
Are there any other DSLR cameras under 400 dollars worth considering?
Yes, the Nikon D3500 is another great option in the sub-$400 range. It has excellent image quality, user-friendly controls, and a lightweight design, making it ideal for beginners.
What features should I look for in a DSLR camera under 400 dollars?
When shopping for a DSLR camera under $400, consider factors like image quality, ease of use, autofocus performance, and available lenses. Look for cameras with good reviews and a reputation for reliability.
