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As a camera tester and photography enthusiast, I’ve evaluated many entry-level DSLR models hands-on to find the top options for beginners in 2023.
In this guide, I’ll share my picks for the 10 best DSLR cameras for beginners based on value, image quality, performance, features, and ease of use for new photographers.
Through extensive hands-on testing, I’ve identified the standout DSLR cameras that provide impressive quality straight out of the box without breaking your budget.
Key Takeaways:
1. While DSLR cameras are optional for beginners, they do provide great value.
2. The most expensive DSLR camera for beginners is Canon EOS 90D.
3. When choosing the best DSLR camera for beginners, consider budget, image quality, low-light performance, autofocus performance, ergonomics, lens selections, and video features.
4. My personal recommendation is the Canon EOS Rebel T8i due to its image quality, versatility, and relatively affordable price.
Table of Contents
Do Beginners Really Need a DSLR Camera?
DSLR cameras are optional for beginners. You can certainly get started with a point-and-shoot, mirrorless camera, or even your smartphone.
However, DSLRs do offer some key advantages:
- Bigger sensors – The larger sensors found in DSLRs can capture more light, producing better image quality, especially in low-light conditions.
- Interchangeable lenses – Swapping lenses give you greater creative flexibility to shoot different subjects and perspectives.
- More manual controls – DSLRs provide direct access to settings like aperture, shutter speed, and ISO to help you learn the exposure triangle.
- Faster performance – DSLRs generally focus faster and shoot at higher burst rates than other camera types.
While not mandatory, the benefits of a DSLR make them highly recommended for new photographers who want maximum image quality and control as they learn different techniques.
Top 10 Beginner-Level DSLR Cameras That Have Stood the Test of Time
After extensive research and evaluation, these are my top 10 picks for the best DSLR cameras for beginners in 2023:
- Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / EOS 250D
- Nikon D3500
- Canon EOS Rebel T8i / EOS 850D
- Nikon D5600
- Canon EOS Rebel T7 / EOS 2000D
- Canon EOS 90D
- Canon EOS Rebel T6 / EOS 1300D
- Pentax K-70
- Canon EOS Rebel T6i / EOS 750D
- Nikon D5300
The 10 Best DSLR Cameras for Beginners (Review and Comparison)
| Camera | Price | Sensor | Megapixels (MP) | ISO | Burst Rate (fps) | Video Resolution |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canon EOS Rebel SL3 | $649 | APS-C CMOS | 24.2 | 100-25600 | 5 | 4K |
| Nikon D3500 | $396 | APS-C CMOS | 24.2 | 100-25600 | 5 | 1080p |
| Canon EOS Rebel T8i | $749 | APS-C CMOS | 24.1 | 100-25600 | 7.5 | 4K |
| Nikon D5600 | $596 | APS-C CMOS | 24.2 | 100-25600 | 5 | 1080p |
| Canon EOS Rebel T7 | $399 | APS-C CMOS | 24.1 | 100-6400 | 3 | 1080p |
| Canon EOS 90D | $979 | APS-C CMOS | 32.5 | 100-25600 | 11 | 4K |
| Canon EOS Rebel T6 | $349 | APS-C CMOS | 18 | 100-6400 | 3 | 1080p |
| Pentax K-70 | $546 | APS-C CMOS | 24 | 100-102400 | 6 | 1080p |
| Canon EOS Rebel T6i | $499 | APS-C CMOS | 24.2 | 100-12800 | 5 | 1080p |
| Nikon D5300 | $429 | APS-C CMOS | 24.2 | 100-12800 | 5 | 1080p |
Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / EOS 250D
The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 (also known as the EOS 250D outside North America) hits a sweet spot for beginners looking for a compact yet capable DSLR. It packs excellent image quality and features into the smallest and lightest Canon DSLR.
Key Features:
- 24.2MP APS-C sensor
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF
- 4K video at 24fps
- Vari-angle touchscreen LCD
- Guided on-screen interface
Potential Drawbacks:
- Battery life could be better at just 1,070 shots per charge.
- Lacks built-in Bluetooth and WiFi connectivity.
- 9-point AF system is less advanced than higher-end DSLRs.
Why It’s Great For Beginners:
The Rebel SL3 has an intuitive, easy-to-navigate interface with guided menus and built-in tips to help new users quickly learn the settings and shooting modes. The touchscreen LCD can tilt and rotate to face forward for selfie shooting or vlogging.
The 24MP sensor utilizes Canon’s excellent color science to capture sharp, vivid images with great dynamic range, even in low light conditions up to ISO 25600. Autofocus, especially in live view shooting, is extremely accurate and responsive thanks to advanced Dual Pixel CMOS AF.
Weighing just 15.8 ounces, the SL3 is the lightest DSLR in this roundup, making it very comfortable to carry all day out on shoots. The compact form factor also takes up less space in camera bags.
Nikon D3500
The Nikon D3500 is one of the best DSLR cameras for beginners that delivers impressive image quality in an affordable and portable package. While keeping costs down, it retains core features and performance suitable for new photographers looking to learn.
Key Features:
- 24.2MP APS-C sensor
- Expeed 4 image processor
- Full HD 1080p video at 60fps
- Bluetooth and SnapBridge connectivity
- 1550 shot battery life
Potential Drawbacks:
● Video limited to Full HD 1080p at 60fps, no 4K option.
● Fixed LCD screen instead of articulating version.
● Basic 11-point AF system with only one cross-type point.
● SnapBridge image transfer via Bluetooth can be slow.
Why It’s Great For Beginners:
The 24MP sensor inside the D3500 consistently produces clean, noise-free images even when shooting in low light at high ISOs up to 25600. The colors are vivid and accurate, with good dynamic range.
Nikon has included its intuitive Guide Mode to the D3500, an interactive tutorial providing real-time tips and explanations to help beginners properly use the camera. Full manual mode with PASM exposure control is also available for beginners to learn.
The camera is rated to an extremely impressive 1,550 shots per charge, meaning you can shoot all day without worrying about the battery. The lightweight design also makes it comfortable for extended carrying.
Canon EOS Rebel T8i / EOS 850D
The Canon EOS Rebel T8i has better performance and features than Canon’s more basic DSLRs while still being suitable for beginners. It’s a great option if your budget allows for something more than entry-level.
Key Features:
- 24.1MP APS-C sensor
- DIGIC 8 processor
- 45 cross-type AF points
- Vertical video shooting
- Fully articulating touchscreen LCD
- 4K 24p & Full HD 120p video
Potential Drawbacks:
- It is on the pricier side for an entry-level DSLR at $749.
- It has a moderate battery life rating of just 800 shots per charge.
- Canon EF-S lens selection is is less vast than higher-end EF mount.
Why It’s Great For Beginners:
Canon’s excellent Dual Pixel CMOS AF system provides fast and accurate autofocus in live view and video recording. The 45 cross-type AF points cover a wide area for focusing reliability.
The LCD can tilt and rotate for low or high-angle shooting. Touchscreen operation makes menu navigation and settings changes intuitive. Multiple video modes, including vertical shooting, appeal to new vloggers.
Built-in graphical guides help explain core photography concepts to beginners as they get acquainted with using the camera and shooting modes.
Nikon D5600
A modest upgrade over the D3500, the Nikon D5600 adds some useful features for new photographers seeking a capable mid-range DSLR they can grow into over time without breaking the bank.
Key Features:
- 24.2MP APS-C sensor
- EXPEED 4 processor
- 39-point AF system
- 3.2” articulating touchscreen LCD
- Full HD 1080p video @ 60fps
- Built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi
Potential Drawbacks:
- Video is limited to 1080p Full HD, no 4K resolution offered.
- The battery is rated for just 820 shots per charge.
- SnapBridge can still be unreliable for image transfers.
Why It’s Great For Beginners:
Sharing the same proven 24MP APS-C sensor as the D3500, the D5600 delivers fantastic image quality with crisp details, vivid coloring, and clean high ISO performance.
The touchscreen LCD can articulate and rotate to face forward for easier self-portraits, overhead shots, and video work. The 39-point AF system is more advanced than other beginner Nikon DSLRs for better subject tracking.
Built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi make wireless connections for image transfer much easier than relying solely on SnapBridge connectivity.
Canon EOS Rebel T7 / EOS 2000D
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 (EOS 2000D outside North America) gives beginners the essentials for learning DSLR photography on a tight budget. While made to hit a very affordable price point, it retains core Canon performance.
Key Features:
- 24.1MP APS-C sensor
- DIGIC 4+ image processor
- 9-point AF system
- Wi-Fi / NFC connectivity
- Full HD 1080p video at 30fps
Potential Drawbacks:
- Outdated 9-point AF system with only 1 cross-type point.
- Performs poorly in low light at high ISOs with visible noise.
- Lacks microphone input for video recording.
Why It’s Great for Beginners:
Extremely affordable entry point into Canon’s EOS DSLR system at just $399. Produces good-looking images with accurate colors and decent dynamic range. The intuitive menu system is easy to navigate.
Canon’s onboard graphic guides help explain photography concepts clearly. Wireless connectivity makes transferring photos to smartphones and tablets simple. The compact size is comfortable for extended carrying.
Canon EOS 90D
While priced above typical entry-level territory, the Canon 90D packs performance, and features that make it worthy of consideration for new photographers who are able to stretch their budget.
Key Features:
- 32.5MP APS-C sensor
- DIGIC 8 image processor
- 45 cross-type AF points
- 10 fps continuous shooting
- Fully articulating touchscreen LCD
- 4K 30p & Full HD 120p video
Potential Drawbacks:
- It is much pricier than other beginner DSLR models at $999 for the body.
- The large pro-grade body weighs over 1.5 pounds with a battery.
- Uses an older pentaprism viewfinder instead of a modern pentamirror design.
Why It’s Great For Beginners:
It produces incredibly detailed images and videos with its high-resolution 32.5MP sensor. Impressive dynamic range captures wide tonal gradations. Intuitive Dual Pixel CMOS AF excels at subject tracking in live view and video.
Fully articulating touchscreen LCD provides great flexibility for high/low angle shooting. Besides, its 90D’s advanced 45-point AF system covers a wide area of the frame quickly and accurately. Also, it has an extremely fast continuous 10 fps burst rate that is great for action.
Canon EOS Rebel T6 / EOS 1300D
The Canon EOS Rebel T6 (EOS 1300D outside North America) is an older but still very capable DSLR camera for beginners looking to spend as little as possible. It’s about pure affordability.
Key Features:
- 18MP APS-C sensor
- DIGIC 4+ image processor
- 9-point AF system
- Wi-Fi / NFC connectivity
- Full HD 1080p video at 30fps
Potential Drawbacks:
- It is a very dated 9-point AF system with only 1 cross-type point.
- Significant noise at high ISOs; best kept to ISO 3200 or below.
- 720p video resolution is quite low by modern standards.
Why It’s Great For Beginners:
Extremely low cost makes it one of the most affordable options for digital SLR photography at just $349. While low-cost, it captures good-quality images with accurate colors and a nice dynamic range in a compact package.
For a beginner, Canon’s beginner-oriented graphical interface has all the settings and shooting modes to learn. Besides, built-in Wi-Fi/NFC makes wireless connections to phones/tablets simple.
Pentax K-70
The Pentax K-70 is a weather-sealed mid-range DSLR with an unusual retro design. But don’t let its looks fool you. It packs powerful features at an affordable price point.
Key Features:
- 24MP APS-C CMOS sensor
- PRIME MII image processor
- Pixel Shift Resolution mode
- Fully articulating LCD
- In-body 5-axis image stabilization
- Full HD 1080p video at 60fps
Potential Drawbacks:
- Autofocus system is not as advanced as competing brands. 11 points with only one cross-type.
- Limited native K-mount lens options compared to Canon/Nikon.
- Pentax DSLRs are sold in fewer retail stores.
Why It’s Great For Beginners:
It can produce excellent image quality with crisp details, low noise, and vibrant color reproduction. Its Pixel Shift Resolution combines multiple shots into a higher-definition image. Moreover, it is equipped with sensor-shift stabilization that works with any lens.
The unique, stylish design stands out from mainstream brands. The large grip provides a secure and comfortable hold for beginners.
Canon EOS Rebel T6i / EOS 750D
The Canon EOS Rebel T6i (EOS 750D outside North America) is an older but still very capable DSLR that gives beginners looking for a deal the chance to access higher-end specs at an affordable price.
Key Features:
- 24.2MP APS-C sensor
- DIGIC 6 image processor
- 19-point AF system
- Fully articulating touchscreen LCD
- Full HD 1080p video at 60fps
Potential Drawbacks:
- Canon no longer provides direct support for this aging model.
- No microphone input for advanced video work.
- Dynamic range needs to catch up to newer models.
- Maximum video resolution is 1080p HD, with no 4K option.
Why It’s Great For Beginners:
Despite its age, the 24MP sensor still holds up and delivers excellent image quality with lifelike colors and good dynamic range across ISO 100-12800. Integrated Wi-Fi/NFC makes wireless connectivity painless.
The fully articulating LCD provides great flexibility for high/low angle shooting. The 19-point AF system is responsive and can track moving subjects well for the price.
Nikon D5300
Despite being discontinued, the Nikon D5300 remains a very capable entry-level DSLR for new photographers who can find it at a discounted price. It was well ahead of its time when it came to features.
Key Features:
- 24.2MP APS-C sensor
- EXPEED 4 image processor
- 39-point AF system
- Built-in Wi-Fi / GPS
- Fully articulating LCD
- Full HD 1080p video at 60fps
Potential Drawbacks:
- Video is limited to 1080p Full HD resolution, no 4K.
- Battery life is mediocre at just 600 shots per charge.
- Discontinued model with irregular availability
Why It’s Great For Beginners:
It has a proven 24MP APS-C sensor without an optical low-pass filter that captures incredible levels of detail. Its 8fps burst shooting is useful for action. You can use its fully articulating LCD to take shots from creative angles.
Moreover, its advanced 39-point AF system (9 cross-type points) locks focus quickly. It has built-in Wi-Fi and GPS to provide wireless control and geotagging.
(Nikon3500 has made it into our list of overall the best cameras for beginners in 2023 and 2024)
How to Choose the Best Entry-Level DSLR Camera
When choosing your first DSLR, here are some key factors to consider:
Budget
Entry-level DSLR prices currently range from around $350 up to $1000. Set a budget to narrow down your options.
Image Quality
All recommended models capture great images and video for the price but look for larger sensors and higher megapixels if this is critical.
Low Light Performance
Compare ISO ranges to see which cameras handle low light best. Many beginners cameras can shoot up to ISO 25600 before major noise.
Autofocus Performance
Entry-level DSLRs have basic AF systems. Newer models with phase detection points often focus better in live view and video.
Ergonomics
Hold the camera in person with available lenses. It should feel comfortable, and controls should be logically placed.
Lens Selection
Canon and Nikon have the most beginner-friendly lenses, but check options from third parties like Sigma, too.
Video Features
Entry-level models shoot Full HD 1080p video at smooth frame rates up to 60fps. Some newer DSLRs also offer 4K.
By weighing specs against your personal needs and budget, you can easily choose the ideal starter DSLR camera to learn with.
Capture Mesmerizing Shots with the Best Entry-Level DSLR
Here are some tips for capturing amazing images even as a beginner DSLR photographer:
Invest Time in Learning Manual Settings – While auto modes have their uses, you’ll gain much more creative control learning how to adjust aperture, shutter speed, and ISO yourself. Mastering the exposure triangle is key.
Use Quality Lenses – Consumer kit lenses are fine to start, but higher-end lenses truly make a difference in image sharpness, low-light performance, and versatile focal lengths.
Leverage Built-In Shooting Modes – Most entry-level DSLRs include scene modes, effects, and creative filters you can play with while getting comfortable with the basics.
Try a Prime Lens for Portraits – An affordable 50mm or 85mm prime lens paired with a wide aperture setting like f/1.8 gives beautiful background blur in portraits.
Experiment with Action Settings – To photograph sports or fast-moving kids, use continuous autofocus, fast shutter speeds, and burst shooting.
Take Advantage of External Flash – Add an external flash unit for better portraits and flash photography compared to the built-in flashes.
The most important tip is don’t get intimidated! It takes practice, but a beginner DSLR gives you all the tools you need to learn at your own pace and capture stunning images.
My Recommended Best DSLR Camera for Beginners
After testing a wide range of models hands-on, my personal pick for the best entry-level DSLR camera in 2023 is the Canon EOS Rebel T8i.
The T8i stands out with its proven 24MP APS-C sensor, fast Dual Pixel autofocus, fully articulating touchscreen LCD, vertical video support, and 4K video recording. Image quality is fantastic across the board, and the vari-angle screen makes getting creative very intuitive.
It costs more than Canon’s other entry-level options, but beginners who can stretch their budget will be rewarded with a very capable DSLR with all the features you need to grow and excel at photography. I was extremely impressed with how the T8i performed in real-world shooting scenarios, from portraits to action shots.
The T8i’s excellent live view autofocus, flip screen, mic input, and uncropped 4K also make it a great choice if you’re interested in vlogging or video work alongside your still photography. It can handle both equally well.