While smartphones may be smarter and have more features, they are still far from the capabilities of a DSLR. A full-fledged DSLR can handle the small sensors and lenses. If you want to have full control of your camera and take professional photos, then you will need to learn how to use these cameras.
Although DSLRs may seem intimidating at first, they can become a valuable travel companion. It can be a big help to find an easy-to use and practical first DSLR. These days, they are not very costly.
This list may be helpful if you have been searching for information but are overwhelmed by all the choices and features. This page contains all the top entry-level DSLRs. It’s easy to compare specs and wonder why the Mark III is better than its predecessor.
If you aren’t sure which camera you need, you can read our simple guide to camera types: Which camera should I purchase?
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DSLR bundles
You can personalise your DSLR kit. This is the main advantage of DSLRs. You can use wide angle lenses and zoom lenses. A flashgun is also available.
Canon and Nikon have the most extensive collections of DSLR lenses. However, Pentax and Sony offer good ones. However, quality lenses are available at affordable prices from brands such as Sigma, Tamron, and Tokina.
Nikon D3500
Nikon D3500
Great update on a great line
Specifications
Sensor: 24.2MP (APS-C) CMOS
Lens mount: Nikon F
Screen: Fixed display 3.0-inch, 921,000 dots
Burst shooting at 5fps
Autofocus: 11 point AF
Video: Full HD 1080p
Bluetooth connectivity
Battery life: 1,550 shots
Weight: 415g (with card and battery)
Today’s Top Deals
There are many reasons to buy
+Remarkable image quality+Guide mode+Remarkable batteries life+Compact, easy to use
Avoidable reasons
-No touchscreen-No built-in Wi-Fi-Lacks 4K video
The D3400 and D3300 were both popular entry-level Nikon cameras. The D3500 is the latest addition to the Nikon D3500 line. It continues the tradition that quality and value for money are synonymous.
The D3500 is an excellent option for those who are budget-conscious and want to improve their photography without spending a fortune. The D3500’s sensor has the same 24.2MP pixel count that the D3400 had, but Nikon claims the D3500’s sensor was developed entirely new. The total sensor count of the D3500’s sensor is 24.78MP, as opposed to 24.72MP for the D3400.
The touchscreen display is not available, which is disappointing. There’s also no WiFi or 4K video. The new design offers a better grip and balance with longer lenses and/or heavier lenses. This makes it a lot easier to use than the predecessor.
(Image credit: TechRadar)
Canon EOS Rebel T7i / Canon EOS 800D
It is a compelling combination of high-quality ergonomics and an outstanding sensor
Specifications
Sensor: 24.2MP (APS-C) CMOS
Lens mount: Canon EF-S
Screen: 3.0-inch vari-angle touchscreen, 1,040,000 dots
Burst shooting at 6fps
Autofocus: 45 point AF
Video: Full HD 1080p
Connectivity: Wi Fi, Bluetooth and NFC
Battery life: 600 shots
Weight: 532g
Today’s Top Deals
There are many reasons to buy
+User-friendly interface+Excellent touchscreen control+Live View AF performance+Impressive overall image quality
Avoidable reasons
No 4K video-Only 95% coverage through the viewfinder-Dynamic range could not be better
Canon’s EOS Rebel T7i/EOS 800D is a great choice if you are looking for an easy-to-use and well-rounded camera for your first DSLR.
The EOS Rebel T7i/EOS 800D has the same resolution of 24.2MP as its predecessor, but the sensor has been redesigned and uses the same technology that was used in the EOS 80D.
Newly designed graphical interfaces will make the camera more attractive to new users. This is combined with the intuitive control layout and polished touchscreen for an easy-to-use shooting experience.
Although it’s disappointing that 4K video is not available, considering mirrorless competitors now offer it, this camera may be the right one for you if you want to start your journey in DSLR photography.
Read the complete review: Canon EOS Rebel T7i/ Canon EOS 800D
Nikon D3400 Image credit: Future
Nikon D5600
It is more difficult than ever to choose between Nikon and Canon.
Specifications
Sensor: APS – C CMOS
Megapixels: 24.2MP
Lens mount: Nikon DX
Screen: 3.2-inch articulating touchscreen, 1,040,000 dots
Continuous shooting speed: 5fps
Max video resolution: 1080p
User level: Beginner/enthusiast
Today’s best Nikon D5600 deals
There are many reasons to buy
+Excellent image quality+Articulating touchscreen
Avoidable reasons
Slow Live View focusing on SnapBridge requires work
The D5600, an upgrade to D5500, competes directly against Canon’s EOS Rebel T7i/EOS 800D at top of entry-level DSLR market. The D5000-series is more creative than Nikon’s D3000-series DSLRs.
The D5600 has a large, 3.2-inch touchscreen with variable angle. While the live view focusing speed could have been faster, the 39-point autofocus (AF), does an excellent job. The D5600’s 24.2MP sensor delivers excellent results and the D5600’s logical control layout makes it simple to use.
Read the complete review: Nikon d5600
Nikon D5300
Nikon D5300
Nikon’s most popular entry-level DSLR is no longer available, but it is almost
Specifications
Sensor: APS – C CMOS
Megapixels: 24.2MP
Lens mount: Nikon DX
Screen: 3.2 inches articulating, 1,037,000 dots
Continuous shooting speed: 5fps
Max video resolution: 1080p
User level: Beginner/enthusiast
Today’s Top Deals
There are many reasons to buy
+High-resolution, non-anti-aliased sensor+GPS constructed in
Avoidable reasons
-Slow live view focussing-No touchscreen
The D5300 existed for less than a year before it was replaced by the D5500. The D5300 shares the same 24.2MP sensor and maximum ISO of 25,600. However, the D5300’s EXPEED4 image processor and 39 point autofocus system were also carried over to the D5500. It was outstanding in terms of image quality and will continue to be so. If it isn’t broken,
Although the D5300 does not have fancy touchscreen controls you can get GPS instead. The D5500’s 600-shot battery lifespan has since been bettered by the D5300. It will still outlast the Canon T6i/750D.
Overall, the D5300 is a smart purchase, even though it’s not the most advanced entry-level DSLR.
Read the complete review: Nikon d5300
Canon EOS 200D II (Image credit: Canon India)
Canon EOS Rebel S3 / Canon EOS 200D II
Camera entry-level camera that is very affordable and has a lot of features
Specifications
Sensor: APS – C CMOS
Megapixels: 24.1MP
Lens mount: Canon EF-S
Screen: 3-inch vari-angle touchscreen, 1,040,000 dots
Continuous shooting speed: 5fps
Max video resolution: 4K
User level: Beginner
+Small size+Easy use+4K video+fast, reliable autofocus
Avoidable reasons
-Battery life is rated at 1,070 shots-Fixed screen rather than vari-angle
The EOS 100D (EOS Rebel SL1 US) was introduced by Canon to combat the influx in compact camera systems. At the time, it was the smallest DSLR on the market. It has been replaced by the EOS 200D, EOS Rebel SL2. Its slightly larger proportions make it feel like a smaller Rebel T7i/800D.
This is a good option for those who are new to the service, but there are better options.
Canon’s EOS 200D was a great budget camera for beginners in India. The 200D II improves on that with 4K recording, a new processor, and slightly longer battery life.
It includes essentials like an intuitive interface, a touchscreen and quick and precise autofocus.
View our Canon 200D II review (opens new tab)
Canon EOS 1300D
Canon EOS Rebel T6 / Canon EOS 1300D
This camera is a great replacement for the EOS 1200D
Specifications
Sensor: APS – C CMOS
Megapixels: 18MP
Lens mount: Canon EF-S
Screen: 3 inches, 920,000 dots
Continuous shooting speed: 3fps
Max video resolution: 1080p
User level: Beginner
Today’s Top Deals
There are many reasons to buy
+Low cost and good image quality
Avoidable reasons
No touchscreen-Slow live focus
The EOS 1300D, also known as EOS Rebel T6, uses the same sensor that the T5/1200D camera it replaces. It has a slightly higher quality image because it uses a more advanced processing engine. The T7’s sensor has 24MP instead of 16MP. However, the T6 is more appealing due to its incredible price and very few upgrades.
It’s unlikely that you’ll be able see much difference in normal image viewing sizes so it’s not really a big deal.
The connectivity section is where the EOS Rebel T6 scores over the T5: it has Wi-Fi and near field communication (NFC), technology built in. You can easily transfer images to your smartphone and share them in a matter of seconds.
Remote control of the camera can be done via your smartphone. This is great for group shots. Also, the screen has been upgraded from a 3 inch 460K dot unit with 920K dots to one that has 920K dots. This makes images appear sharper.
