Top 18 best cheap cameras today

And that's where the best cheap cameras come into play.

Difference between phone and camera

A 'point and shoot' camera is simply better than a phone camera in many ways. The biggest difference is the lens, which improves optical zoom for distant objects. Usually, the camera sensor is also larger, which means better quality images. But phones have smart software to improve the quality of the photos you take.

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You'll see a bigger difference when comparing phones and DSLRs. Image quality on a DSLR or mirrorless camera is much higher than on a smartphone. In addition, you can change the lens to better suit the environment in which you will be shooting.

There's a lot more, of course, but in general, your phone should be good enough to use in most cases. First, see if you really need a separate dedicated camera, and then find the one that's right for you.

18 best cheap cameras today

1. Canon PowerShot SX620: The best cheap and shooting camera

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1. Price: 229$ .
2. Sensor: 1/2.3-inch CMOS
3. Resolution: 20 Megapixels
4. Screen: 3 inches, no touch screen
5. Lens: 25x optical zoom (25-625 mm)
6. Video recording: 1080p Full HD at 60fps
7. Connectivity: Wi-Fi, NFC
8. Battery Life: 295 Shot
9. Best for: Anyone on a tight budget who wants to take better photos than a smartphone, while traveling, or at parties and events.

The Canon PowerShot SX620 is the perfect example of what you can do beyond the limited capabilities of your phone's camera. In particular, the 25x optical zoom lens is a big difference, helping a lot for capturing distant objects.

It lacks a touchscreen, so it takes a while to get used to the controls. But they are not too complicated.

2. Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II: Best budget compact camera for most people

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1. Price: $429
2. Sensor: 1-inch CMOS
3. Resolution: 20.1 Megapixels
4. Screen: 3-inch touch screen
5. Lens: 3x optical zoom (28-84 mm)
6. Video recording: 1080p Full HD at 60fps
7. Connection: Wi-Fi
8. Battery life: 220 Shot
9. Best for: Anyone who needs a better camera than a smartphone for portraits, travel, or babies and pets.

Most people who are looking for a compact camera, just point and shoot but the image quality must be better than the phone should choose the Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II. The 1-inch sensor makes a big difference in image quality, and it can also shoot in RAW file format, which is great if you know how to edit RAW images.

The 3x optical zoom lens seems a bit limited, but the G9 X Mark II delivers very good image quality. It's the sensor itself that makes the difference, and it's surprising to have that in such a compact camera.

3. Olympus TG-5: Best budget camera with water resistance

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1. Price: 399$
2. Sensor: 1/2.3-inch CMOS
3. Resolution: 12 Megapixels
4. Screen: 3 inches, no touch screen
5. Lens: 4x optical zoom (25-100 mm)
6. Video recording: Ultra HD 4K at 60fps
7. Connection: Wi-Fi
8. Battery life: 340 Shot
9. Best for: Anyone who needs a camera that can handle extreme conditions such as extreme sports, outdoor activities, or the potential for drops or bumps.

The Olympus TG-5, the latest in the TG series, is the most powerful camera you can buy right now. You can even put it in a cover for extra protection, but you won't usually need it. The camera is water resistant up to 50 feet (15m), shockproof from 7 feet (2m), and freezeproof in 14 degrees Fahrenheit or -10 degrees Celsius. What's more in a camera?

4. Nikon Coolpix B500: Best budget travel camera with long lens

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1. Price: 247$
2. Sensor: 1/2.3-inch CMOS
3. Resolution: 16 Megapixels
4. Screen: 3-inch touch screen
5. Lens: 40x optical zoom (22.5-900 mm)
6. Video recording: 1080p Full HD at 60fps
7. Connectivity: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC
8. Battery life: 600 Shot
9. Best for: Anyone who needs a travel camera with a long, point-and-shoot lens to photograph birds or wildlife or sporting events.

The Nikon Coolpix B500 is a cheap and effective superzoom camera for anyone looking to photograph things that are far away. The camera is ideal when traveling or at events, especially since it uses AA batteries. You can carry multiple spare batteries to ensure the device never runs out of battery.

A word of warning, though, this is not a great camera for nighttime photography. The sensor is small and weak, and the image quality won't even match what you get on the latest Apple iPhone, Google Pixel, or Samsung Galaxy cameras.

High-end instant-lens cameras are available, but if you have to spend more than the price of the Nikon Coolpix B500, you should look for a mirrorless or DSLR camera.

5. Sony a5100: The cheapest mirrorless camera

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1. Price: 448$
2. Sensor: APS-C
3. Resolution: 24 Megapixels
4. Screen: 3-inch touch screen
5. Zoom capability: Depends on lens
6. Video recording: 1080p Full HD at 60fps
7. Connectivity: Wi-Fi, NFC
8. Battery life: 400 Shot
9. Best for: If you don't want a bulky camera but want the best photos possible in its price range, even for night shots, buy it.

There are cases where photography enthusiasts and tourists need to purchase a mirrorless camera. They are typically cheaper than DSLRs but offer similar image quality and lens compatibility, all in a compact body.

The Sony A5100 is the best mirrorless camera in its price range. Sony's mirrorless cameras boast a wide range of lenses, making the A5100 a great choice for any photographer.

6. Canon EOS Rebel T6 (1300D): Best budget DSLR camera

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1. Price: 330$
2. Sensor: APS-C
3. Resolution: 18 Megapixels
4. Screen: 3 inches, no touch screen
5. Zoom capability: Depends on lens
6. Video recording: 1080p Full HD at 60fps
7. Connectivity: Wi-Fi, NFC
8. Battery life: 500 shots
9. Best for: Anyone who wants the cheapest new DSLR right now.

What is the cheapest new DSLR camera you should buy? The answer, of course, is the Canon EOS Rebel T6, aka the Canon EOS 1300D (outside the US).

Canon has equipped this camera with everything that makes it easier for beginners to operate. The menu system is easy to use, and the automatic setup ensures that you don't need to do anything but point and shoot.

It is worth mentioning, that the camera lacks a touch screen, which can be an issue for many users. Its 9-point autofocus system is also quite old and won't produce the best shots of moving subjects. Unless you have a specific reason to buy a new camera, you may want to consider buying a used DSLR. You get a better camera for the same price.

7. Sony Cyber-shot RX100 III: Sony's compact, premium compact camera

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1. Price: $369.95
2. Type: Compact
3. Sensor: 1 inch, 20.2MP
4. Lens: 24-70mm f/1.8-2.8
5. Screen: 3-inch tilt angle, 1,229K dot
6. Viewfinder: EVF
7. Continuous shooting: 10fps
8. Video recording: 4K
9. User level: Beginner/intermediate

Sony's newest camera in the RX100 series, the RX100 VI, is one of many people's favorite compact cameras at the moment and a relatively expensive option. The good news is that all previous generation models are still available at much more attractive prices. The RX100 III may not offer some of the latest features, but it's still a good compact camera in its price range. The large 1.0-inch sensor delivers superb levels of detail, and the wide and fast range of the zoom lens makes the RX100 VI a versatile companion. In addition, the RX100 VI has a built-in viewfinder and flip screen. The RX100 is a great compact camera in its price range.

8. Panasonic Lumix FZ300/FZ330: A camera with amazing 4K video recording

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1. Price: $397.99
2. Type: Bridge camera (instant lens camera)
3. Sensor: 1/2.3 inch, 12.1MP
4. Lens: 25-600mm, f/2.8
5. Screen: 3-inch tiltable touchscreen, 1.04m dot
6. Viewfinder: EVF
7. Continuous shooting: 10fps
8. Video recording: 4K
9. User level: Beginner

Launched in 2015, the Lumix FZ300 (also known as the Lumix FZ330) is an option worth considering. The 25-600mm zoom range allows you to capture the subject you want, no matter how far away it is. While this zoom range is pretty typical for a bridge camera, what impresses most about the Lumix FZ300 is its constant f/2.8 maximum aperture. In addition, the body of the Lumix FZ300 is also water resistant, multi-angle touch screen, high-resolution electronic viewfinder, WiFi connectivity and anti-shake system for good image quality. .

9. Nikon D3500: The best DSLR out there for newbies

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1. Price: $390
2. Type: DSLR
3. Sensor: APS-C CMOS, 24.2MP
4. Lens mount: Nikon F
5. Screen: 3-inch, 921,000K dot
6. Viewfinder: Optical
7. Continuous shooting: 5fps
8. Video recording: 1080p
9. User level: Beginner

Nikon's D3400 is a hugely successful and popular DSLR. The Nikon D3400 still maintains its appeal, after the release of the D3500, as the camera offers many of the same features at a more affordable price point. But for now, after the sale, the D3500 is clearly the best option to consider.

The main changes over the older model D3400 include a newly developed APS-C sensor (though still only 24MP) and better battery life (1,550 shots per charge, compared to the D3400's 1,200 figure) . You also get a better battery grip and a slightly lighter redesigned body.

10. Panasonic Lumix ZS50/Lumix TZ70: Great compact camera with huge zoom range

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1. Price: $299
2. Type: Compact
3. Sensor: 1/2.3-inch, 12.1MP
4. Lens: 24-720mm, f/3.3-6.4
5. Screen: 3 inches, 1,040K dot
6. Viewfinder: EVF
7. Continuous shooting: 10fps
8. Video recording: 1080p
9. User level: Beginner/intermediate

Panasonic's Lumix ZS/TZ line of compact cameras have long dominated the travel camera market, and the ZS50 (aka TZ70) maintains it. While it may be 'overshadowed' by brothers with larger sensors, such as the ZS100/TZ100 and ZS200/TZ200, the ZS50/TZ70 still has the edge thanks to its excellent 30x zoom in a body this size. pocket ruler. The Panasonic Lumix ZS50 even has space for an (albeit modest) electronic viewfinder, ideal in low light for shooting or reviewing photos on the rear monitor.

You can use this camera as an advanced point-and-shoot camera (simply let the camera adjust the settings, or you can shoot high-quality raw files and make your own decisions about it). aperture, as well as shutter speed).

11. Canon EOS Rebel SL2/EOS 200D: The best choice in this price range

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1. Price: $449
2. Type: DSLR
3. Sensor: APS-C CMOS, 24.2MP
4. Lens mount: Canon EF-S
5. Screen: 3-inch multi-angle touch screen, 1,040,000K dot
6. Viewfinder: Optical
7. Continuous shooting: 5fps
8. Video recording: 1080p
9. User level: Beginner

If you're on a tight budget, the EOS Rebel T6 (also known as the EOS 1300D) is a good choice for beginners. But you can save a bit more by opting for the new, better, and better EOS Rebel SL2. It gives more room to grow as you feel more confident, with the advantage of a 24MP sensor instead of 18MP, a wider ISO range, faster shooting, a flip-out LCD touchscreen, plus the Dual system Canon's superb Pixel CMOS AF for smooth focusing during video recording and live view.

12. Sony Alpha A6000: High-end camera at a low price

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1. Price: $398
2. Type: Mirrorless
3. Sensor: APS-C CMOS, 24.3MP
4. Lens mount: Sony E-mount
5. Screen: 3.0 inch flip angle, 921K dot
6. Viewfinder: EVF
7. Continuous shooting speed: 11fps
8. Video recording: 1080p
9. User level: Beginner / photography enthusiast

Don't let the price of the Sony Alpha A6000 fool you. The A6000 costs about the same as other DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, but it's an advanced and powerful camera. Launched in 2014, the Sony Alpha A6000 may be a bit dated, but most of the specs still sound pretty appealing.

These parameters include a 24MP sensor, a fast 179-point autofocus system and continuous shooting at 11 frames per second. However, the Sony Alpha A6000 is only capable of recording Full HD 1080p video, not 4K, and does not have a touchscreen. At a fairly affordable price point, the A6000's high-end features make it a great choice for beginners.

13. Nikon D5300: Although it has been replaced by the D5500 and D5600, it is still a pretty good choice.

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1. Price: $365.99
2. Type: DSLR
3. Sensor: APS-C CMOS, 24.2MP
4. Lens mount: Nikon DX
5. Display: 3.2-inch articulating, 1,037,000 dot
6. Viewfinder: Optical
7. Continuous shooting speed: 5fps
8. 1080p video recording
9. User level: Beginner / photography enthusiast

The D5300 appeared for more than a year before the D5500 model, and then the technical replacement D5600 appeared. The Nikon D5300 has a 24.2MP sensor with maximum ISO25,600 sensitivity, an EXPEED 4 image processor, and a 39-point autofocus system (same as the D5500). The D5300 doesn't have a touch screen, but it does feature GPS. The D5300's 600-shot battery life is beaten by the D5500, but it's still far ahead of the Canon EOS Rebel T6i/750D. All in all, the Nikon D5300 may not be the newest DSLR, but it's still a solid product.

14. Sony Alpha A7 II: More megapixels than you'd expect at such a good price

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1. Price: $898
2. Type: Mirrorless
3. Sensor: Full-frame CMOS, 24.3MP
4. Lens mount: Sony E-mount
5. Monitor: 3-inch articulating, 1,230,000 dot Viewfinder: Electronic
6. Continuous shooting speed: 5fps
7. Video recording: 1080p
8. User level: Photography enthusiast

The new Alpha A7 III is one of the most popular options available today. The Alpha A7 II is half as much as its newer 'brother'. The Alpha A7 II may not have all the latest features, but you still get a very good 24.3MP full-frame sensor, excellent AF system, and excellent image stabilization. The handling isn't quite as refined as the newer models, but given the hefty price tag, this can't be ignored. You will be hard pressed to find a better camera in this price range.

15. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II: A beautiful, sturdy camera

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1. Price: $399.95
2. Type: Mirrorless
3. Sensor: Micro Four Thirds, 16.1MP
4. Lens mount: Micro Four Thirds
5. Screen: 3-inch tilt-angle monitor, 1,040,000 dot
6. Viewfinder: EVF, 2,360,000 dot
7. Continuous shooting: 8.5fps
8. Video recording: Full HD
9. User level: Beginner/intermediate

The OM-D E-M10 Mark II is another example of a camera being upgraded now. Inside the body is undoubtedly an excellent electronic viewfinder, highly effective anti-shake system and a respectable 8.5fps continuous shooting speed. The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II may not have the latest sensor or 4K video capabilities, but these shouldn't matter if you're just focused on taking great photos.

16. Canon PowerShot SX730 HS: Compact camera with 30x optical zoom and great price

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1. Price: $299.98
2. Type: Compact
3. Sensor: 1/2.3-inch, 20.3MP
4. Lens: 24-960mm, f/3.3-6.9
5. Display: 3-inch tilt-angle monitor, 922,000 dot
6. Viewfinder: No
7. Continuous shooting: 5.9fps
8. Video recording: 1080p
9. User level: Beginner

The PowerShot SX730 HS appeals to both beginners and experienced photographers alike. On the back is a small dial, allowing you to quickly switch between different exposure modes, including manual and semi-automatic modes for those who want to be in control, plus Fully automatic and scene mode.

The 30x optical zoom covers an excellent focal length range and offers versatility for vacation photography. However, the Canon PowerShot SX730 HS does not have a touchscreen. This is a great choice for those who want a compact point and shoot camera with a long focal length zoom range.

17. Sony A7: Great full-frame camera

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1. Price: $636.24
2. Type: Mirrorless
3. Sensor: Full-frame, 24.3MP
4. Lens mount: Sony E
5. Screen: 3 inches, 1,230,000 dot
6. Viewfinder: EVF
7. Continuous shooting: 5fps
8. 1080p video recording
9. User level: Photography enthusiast

This may be one of the oldest models on this list, but you can still grab it as it's still relatively new and the most economical way to enter the world of full-frame photography. Sure, the Sony A7 can't match the A7 II and A7 III, but if you don't need 4K video, a touchscreen, or the latest autofocus system, the Sony A7 is still an option worth considering.

The main advantages of the Sony A7 are its 24.3MP full-frame sensor, hybrid AF system, 5fps continuous shooting mode, 1.23 million dot LCD and WiFi with NFC. You can take advantage of a wide range of Sony and third-party lenses with the Sony A7.

18. Panasonic Lumix FZ70/FZ72: Bridge camera with 60x . zoom lens

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1. Price: $297.99
2. Type: Bridge compact
3. Sensor size: 1/2.3-inch, 16.1MP
4. Lens: 20-1200mm, f/2.8-5.9
5. Screen: 3 inches, 460,000 dot
6. Viewfinder: Yes
7. Continuous shooting speed: 9 fps
8. Maximum video resolution: 1080p
9. User level: Beginner / photography enthusiast

The Panasonic Lumix FZ70/FZ72 is one of the cheapest bridge cameras available. Let's start with the lens. The Lumix FZ70 is capable of an incredible 60x optical zoom, from 20mm to 1200mm. You also have the option of full manual control (as well as a host of useful auto modes), raw capture, and decent image quality from a sensor of this size. The downside of the Lumix FZ70 is that although it has an EVF, the quality is not the best and there is no touch screen, nor wireless connectivity.

Now, you know the best cheap cameras. The next thing to do is think about buying accessories. For some of the options above, you only need one lens for a mirrorless or DSLR camera. But that doesn't mean you shouldn't care about the other choices on the list. No matter which camera you buy, you'll need a few accessories to go with it.

For starters, you'll need a good SD card to safely store all of your photos and a case for your camera. The task you need to do is not only to buy the right camera, but also to buy the necessary accessories to take pictures.

Good luck with your choice of camera!

Micah Soto

Update 08 June 2022