As a passionate photographer looking to upgrade my gear, I embarked on a quest to find the best intermediate DSLR camera that offers high-quality features at an affordable price. With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to narrow down the choices and make a decision that fits both my budget and my photography needs.
After extensive research and hands-on testing, I’ve compiled a list of the top contenders in the intermediate low-cost DSLR camera category. From image quality and handling to autofocus performance and video capabilities, each camera was put through its paces to determine which one offers the best value for aspiring photographers like myself.
In this article, I will share my experiences and insights into the best intermediate low-cost DSLR cameras available today. Whether you’re a hobbyist looking to step up your photography game or a student on a tight budget, I hope this guide will help you make an informed decision and find the perfect camera to unleash your creativity.
Overview of Intermediate DSLR Cameras
When it comes to choosing an intermediate DSLR camera, there are several factors to consider. These cameras are a step up from entry-level models, offering more advanced features and better image quality. They are ideal for photographers who have outgrown their beginner camera and are looking to take their photography to the next level.
Intermediate DSLR cameras typically have larger sensors, allowing for better low-light performance and higher resolution images. They also offer more manual controls, giving photographers greater creative freedom. In addition, these cameras often have faster autofocus systems and better build quality, making them more durable and reliable.
- Advanced Features: Intermediate DSLR cameras often come with advanced features such as dual card slots, weather sealing, and higher burst rates, making them suitable for a wide range of photography styles.
- Interchangeable Lenses: One of the key advantages of DSLR cameras is the ability to use interchangeable lenses, allowing photographers to adapt to different shooting situations and achieve a variety of creative effects.
- Value for Money: While intermediate DSLR cameras may be more expensive than entry-level models, they offer great value for money in terms of performance and features, making them a good investment for serious photographers.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a DSLR Camera
When looking for an intermediate low-cost DSLR camera, there are several important factors to take into consideration to ensure you make the best choice for your needs. Here are some key factors that I recommend focusing on:
- Image Quality: One of the most critical aspects of a DSLR camera is its image quality. Look for a camera with a high resolution sensor and good low-light performance to ensure your photos come out clear and sharp.
- Features: Consider the features offered by the camera, such as autofocus capabilities, shooting modes, and connectivity options. Choose a camera that has the features you need for your style of photography.
- Lens Compatibility: DSLR cameras offer the flexibility of interchangeable lenses. Make sure the camera you choose is compatible with a wide range of lenses to expand your creative possibilities.
- Build Quality: A durable and well-built camera will last longer and withstand the rigors of regular use. Look for a camera with a solid construction that feels comfortable and secure in your hands.
- Price: While looking for a low-cost DSLR camera, remember that quality often comes at a price. Balance your budget with the features and performance you require to get the best value for your money.
Exploring the Canon EOS Rebel T7i
When it comes to intermediate DSLR cameras, the Canon EOS Rebel T7i stands out as a reliable and versatile option. With its 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor, this camera delivers high-quality images with excellent clarity and detail. Whether you’re capturing portraits, landscapes, or action shots, the Rebel T7i offers impressive image quality that will satisfy even the most discerning photographers.
One of the standout features of the Canon EOS Rebel T7i is its fast and accurate autofocus system. With 45 cross-type autofocus points, this camera ensures that your subjects are always sharp and in focus, even in challenging lighting conditions. Whether you’re shooting stills or video, the Rebel T7i’s autofocus system will help you capture stunning images with ease.
- 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor: Capture high-quality images with excellent clarity and detail.
- Fast and accurate autofocus system: With 45 cross-type autofocus points, ensure your subjects are always sharp and in focus.
- Versatile shooting modes: From portrait to landscape to action shots, the Rebel T7i offers a range of shooting modes to suit your creative vision.
Nikon D5600: My Go-To Intermediate DSLR Camera
When it comes to finding the best intermediate low-cost DSLR camera, the Nikon D5600 is my top choice. This camera strikes the perfect balance between affordability and advanced features, making it ideal for photographers looking to take their skills to the next level.
One of the standout features of the Nikon D5600 is its impressive image quality. With a 24.2-megapixel sensor and the ability to shoot in RAW format, this camera delivers stunning, high-resolution images that are perfect for both printing and digital sharing.
- Articulating Touchscreen: The Nikon D5600 comes equipped with a 3.2-inch articulating touchscreen that makes it easy to compose shots from any angle. The touchscreen functionality also allows for quick and intuitive navigation through the camera’s menu system.
- Wireless Connectivity: With built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, the Nikon D5600 makes it easy to share your photos instantly with friends and family. You can also control the camera remotely from your smartphone or tablet, making it a versatile tool for capturing unique perspectives.
- Full HD Video: In addition to still photography, the Nikon D5600 excels at capturing high-quality Full HD video. The camera’s autofocus system ensures smooth and accurate focus tracking, while the external microphone input allows for professional-grade audio recording.
Sony Alpha A6000: An Excellent Intermediate DSLR Camera
When looking for a reliable and affordable DSLR camera that offers great performance for intermediate photographers, the Sony Alpha A6000 is a fantastic choice. This mirrorless camera combines a compact design with powerful features, making it a versatile option for capturing high-quality images.
One of the key highlights of the Sony Alpha A6000 is its impressive autofocus system, which features 179 phase-detection points that ensure quick and accurate focusing. This allows you to capture sharp and clear images, even in challenging lighting conditions or fast-moving scenes. Additionally, the camera’s 24.3-megapixel APS-C sensor delivers excellent image quality with vibrant colours and fine details.
- Compact and Lightweight: The Sony Alpha A6000 is a portable camera that is easy to carry around, making it ideal for travel and outdoor photography.
- Fast Continuous Shooting: With a continuous shooting speed of up to 11 frames per second, you can capture fast-paced action with ease.
- Wi-Fi and NFC Connectivity: The camera’s built-in Wi-Fi and NFC capabilities enable easy sharing of photos and remote control using a smartphone or tablet.
Pentax K-70: A Solid Choice for Intermediate Photographers
As an intermediate photographer looking for a reliable and affordable DSLR camera, the Pentax K-70 is a great option to consider. With its weather-sealed body and impressive image quality, this camera is perfect for outdoor shooting in various conditions.
One of the standout features of the Pentax K-70 is its high-resolution APS-C sensor, which delivers sharp and detailed images. The camera also offers a wide ISO range, allowing you to capture clear photos in low light situations without compromising image quality.
- Articulating Screen: The Pentax K-70 comes with a tilting LCD screen, making it easy to shoot from different angles, including high and low positions.
- Advanced Autofocus: The camera features a fast and accurate autofocus system, ensuring that you can capture sharp images of moving subjects with ease.
- Wireless Connectivity: With built-in Wi-Fi, you can easily transfer your photos to your smartphone or tablet for quick sharing on social media.
Fujifilm X-T30: A Reliable Intermediate DSLR Camera
When it comes to finding the perfect intermediate DSLR camera that offers a great balance between quality and affordability, the Fujifilm X-T30 is a top contender. This camera is designed for enthusiasts and budding professionals who are looking to take their photography to the next level.
With its compact and lightweight design, the Fujifilm X-T30 is easy to take on the go, making it ideal for travel and outdoor photography. Despite its size, this camera packs a punch with its impressive image quality and advanced features that allow for full creative control.
- The Fujifilm X-T30 features a 26.1MP APS-C sensor that delivers sharp and detailed images.
- It offers fast and accurate autofocus performance, perfect for capturing moving subjects.
- With its 4K video recording capabilities, the X-T30 is also a great choice for videographers.
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III
When looking for a reliable and versatile camera for intermediate photography needs, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III is a fantastic choice. With its compact size and lightweight design, this camera is easy to carry around for on-the-go shooting sessions.
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III features a 16-megapixel Live MOS sensor and TruePic VIII image processor, delivering stunning image quality and impressive low-light performance. The camera also offers 5-axis image stabilization, ensuring sharp and blur-free images even in challenging shooting conditions.
- The camera boasts a 121-point contrast-detect autofocus system for fast and accurate focusing, making it ideal for capturing moving subjects.
- With 4K video recording capabilities, you can create high-quality videos with crisp details and vibrant colors.
- The built-in Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to easily share your images and videos with friends and family or remotely control the camera from your smartphone.
Conclusion
The Panasonic Lumix G85 is a versatile and powerful intermediate low-cost DSLR camera that offers a wide range of features for both photo and video enthusiasts. With its 16-megapixel sensor, 4K video recording capabilities, and 5-axis image stabilization, it provides excellent image quality and smooth footage even in challenging shooting conditions.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to upgrade from a basic camera or an experienced photographer seeking a budget-friendly option with advanced features, the Lumix G85 is a solid choice. Its compact and lightweight design makes it easy to carry around for travel or everyday shooting, while the touchscreen interface and customizable controls offer flexibility and convenience.
- Pros:
- Excellent image quality
- 4K video recording
- 5-axis image stabilization
- Compact and lightweight design
- Touchscreen interface
- Cons:
- Smaller sensor size compared to some competitors
- No headphone jack for audio monitoring
Best intermediate low cost dslr camera
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
3 used from $448.35
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)


Didn't find the right price? Set price alert below
Canon EOS 6D Mark II Digital SLR Camera Body – Wi-Fi Enabled
Features
- 26.2 Megapixel full frame CMOS sensor
- Optical viewfinder with a 45 point all cross type AF system. Compatible lenses: Canon EF lenses (excluding EF S and EF M lenses)
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF with phase detection & Full HD 60p
- DIGIC 7 Image Processor, ISO 100 40000. GPS, Wi Fi, NFC and Bluetooth low energy
- Vary angle touch screen, 3.0 inch LCD

| Price history for Canon EOS 6D Mark II Digital SLR Camera Body – Wi-Fi Enabled | |
|---|---|
|
Latest updates:
|
|

Didn't find the right price? Set price alert below
Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera Bundle w/ Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 is II Lens + 2pc SanDisk 64GB Memory Cards, Wide Angle Lens, Telephoto Lens, 3pc Filter Kit + Accessory Kit
1 used from $579.00
Features
- This Camera Bundle Kit comes complete with all manufacturer supplied accessories and includes:
- The EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera from Canon has a 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor and DIGIC 4+ Image Processor. It has a 3.0" 920k-Dot LCD Monitor with Full HD 1080/30p Video Recording capabilities. It offers sharp details, accurate colors and low-noise imaging in both bright and low-light shooting situations. The Rebel T& can continuously shoot up to 3 fps.
- Canon 18-55mm II Lens - a standard zoom compatible with Canon APS-C format cameras. It features a focal length range of 18-55mm which is equivalent to 29-88mm in the 35mm format
- 2 x SanDisk 64GB SDHC Memory Cards + Deluxe Padded Camera Case + Flash w/ bracket + 3pc Filter Kit + Extra Battery Pack + High Speed USB Card Reader + 50" Camera Tripod
- 0.43x Auxiliary Wideangle Lens - it conveniently mounts to the front of your fixed or zoom lens, and allows you to capture a wider field of view, 2.2x Auxiliary Telephoto Lens - brings you twice as close to the action. Perfect for long-distance photo situations such as sporting events


Didn't find the right price? Set price alert below
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) | |
|---|---|
|
Latest updates:
|
|

Didn't find the right price? Set price alert below
Canon EOS 4000D / Rebel T100 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), Black
Features
- Deluxe Bundle with: Camera, 18-55mm Lens, Wide-angle & Telephoto, 64gb, Case, Filter Kit, Flash, Tripod & More!
- 18.0MP APS-C CMOS Sensor - DIGIC 4+ Image Processor - 2.7' 230k-Dot LCD Monitor
- Full HD 1080p Video Recording at 30 fps - 9-point AF System and AI Servo AF - Extended ISO 12800, 3 fps Shooting
- Built-In Wi-Fi - Scene Intelligent Auto Mode - Creative Auto Modes & Manual Modes
- Canon EOS 4000D is known as Canon EOS Rebel T100 - International Model, No Manufacturers

| Price history for Canon EOS 4000D / Rebel T100 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), Black | |
|---|---|
|
Latest updates:
|
|

Didn't find the right price? Set price alert below
Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm is II Lens + Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Lens and 500mm Preset Lens + 32GB Memory + Filters + Monopod + Professional Bundle (Renewed)
Features
- This Canon Camera Bundle comes with Manufacturer Supplied Accessories and One Year Seller Warranty.
- Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera - 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor - DIGIC 4+ Image Processor - 3.0" 920k-Dot LCD Monitor - Full HD 1080/30p Video Recording - 9-Point AF with Center Cross-Type Point - ISO 100-6400, Up to 3 fps Shooting - Built-In Wi-Fi with NFC - Scene Intelligent Auto Mode - Creative Filters and Creative Auto Modes
- Canon EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Lens is a sleek and flexible option for everyday shooting. Spanning a 28.8-88mm equivalent focal length range, this lens covers wide-angle to portrait-length perspectives + Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Lens + 500mm f/8 Telephoto Preset Lens
- SanDisk 32GB SDHC Memory Cards, Camera Shoulder Case, Slave Flash, High Definition UV Filters, High Speed USB Card Reader
- The bundle also includes many high quality accessories like HD filter kit, Monopod, Flexible spider tripod, T-Mount for 500mm Lens and more.

| Price history for Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm is II Lens + Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Lens and 500mm Preset Lens + 32GB Memory + Filters + Monopod + Professional Bundle (Renewed) | |
|---|---|
|
Latest updates:
|
|

Didn't find the right price? Set price alert below
Canon EOS Rebel T100 / 4000D DSLR Camera (w/ 18-55 III) (Renewed)
Features
- Take beautiful photos and movies with background blur
- Easily connect, shoot and share on the move
- Express your creativity with easy to follow guidance
- Explore the power of DSLR and interchangeable lenses
- EOS 4000D body, EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 III, Eyecup Ef, Camera Cover R-F-3, Camera strap EW-400D, Battery Pack LP-E10, Battery Charger LC-E10E

| Price history for Canon EOS Rebel T100 / 4000D DSLR Camera (w/ 18-55 III) (Renewed) | |
|---|---|
|
Latest updates:
|
|

Didn't find the right price? Set price alert below
Canon EOS RP Full-frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera + RF24-105mm Lens F4-7.1 IS STM Lens Kit- Compact and Lightweight for Traveling and Vlogging, Black (3380C132)
Features
- Compact, Lightweight and High-Quality RF Lens with a Versatile Zoom Range of 24-105 millimeter
- Optical Image Stabilization at up to 5 stops of shake correction
- Maximum Magnification of 0.4x and Minimum Focusing Distance of 0.66 feet in Auto Focus.
- Maximum Magnification of 0.5x and Minimum Focusing Distance of 0.43 ft. when using Center Focus Macro.
- 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.

| Price history for Canon EOS RP Full-frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera + RF24-105mm Lens F4-7.1 IS STM Lens Kit- Compact and Lightweight for Traveling and Vlogging, Black (3380C132) | |
|---|---|
|
Latest updates:
|
|

Didn't find the right price? Set price alert below
Sony Alpha DSLRA350K 14.2MP Digital SLR Camera with Super SteadyShot Image Stabilization DT 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 Zoom Lens
Features
- Incredible 14.2 MP for ultra-high-resolution detail
- Kit include DT 18-70mm f3.5-5.6 Standard Zoom Lens
- High sensitivity (ISO 3200) with noise reduction
- Tiltable 2.7¿ LCD screen for high/low angle shots
- Super SteadyShot in-camera image stabilization

| Price history for Sony Alpha DSLRA350K 14.2MP Digital SLR Camera with Super SteadyShot Image Stabilization DT 18-70mm f/3.5-5.6 Zoom Lens | |
|---|---|
|
Latest updates:
|
|

Didn't find the right price? Set price alert below
Canon EOS Rebel SL3 Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm Lens Kit, Built-in Wi-Fi, Dual Pixel CMOS AF and 3.0 inch Vari-Angle Touch Screen, White
Features
- Lightest, smallest EOS DSLR camera
- High image quality with 24. 1 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor
- Fast and accurate dual Pixel CMOS AF with eye detection AF
- 4K video, 4K time lapse movie
- Vary angle Touchscreen, 3. 0 Inch LCD, built in WiFi and Bluetooth technology with auto image transfer. , DIGIC 8 Image processor, is 100-25600. , optical Viewfinder with a 9 point AF system. , Easy operation. among current lineup, as of April 10, 2019. Compatible with iOS versions 10. 3/11. 4/12. 1, Android smartphone and tablet versions 4. 4/5. 0/5. 1/6. 0/7. 0/7. 1/8. 0/8. 1. Data charges may apply with the download of the free Canon camera connect app. This app helps enable you to upload images to social media services. Please note that image files may contain personally identifiable information that may implicate privacy laws. Canon disclaims and has No responsibility for your use of such images. Canon does not obtain, collect or use such images or any information included in such images through this app. compatible with select smartphone and tablet devices (Android version 5. 0 or later and the following iOS devices: iPhone 4S or later, iPad 3rd Gen. Or later, iPod touch 5th Gen. Or later) equipped with Bluetooth Version 4. 0 or later and the camera connect app Ver. 2. 4. 10. This application is not to operate on all listed devices, even if minimum requirements are met


Didn't find the right price? Set price alert below
Q&A:
What is the best intermediate low cost DSLR camera on the market?
The Canon EOS Rebel T7i is often recommended as a great intermediate low cost DSLR camera due to its excellent image quality, advanced features, and reasonable price point.
Which features should I look for in an intermediate low cost DSLR camera?
When choosing an intermediate low cost DSLR camera, look for features like a good autofocus system, a decent ISO range for low light performance, and the ability to shoot in RAW format for better editing flexibility.
Is it worth investing in an intermediate low cost DSLR camera for photography enthusiasts?
Yes, investing in an intermediate low cost DSLR camera can be a great choice for photography enthusiasts who want to improve their skills and explore more advanced features without breaking the bank.
Are there any other brands besides Canon that offer good intermediate low cost DSLR cameras?
Yes, Nikon also offers some excellent options in the intermediate low cost DSLR camera category, such as the Nikon D5600, which is known for its user-friendly interface and versatility.
