Which is the best cheap camera?
A tight budget shouldn't hold back your photography, which is why we've put together this expert round-up of the best cheap cameras. From simple DSLRs to affordable mirrorless options, we've comprehensively reviewed the best reasonably priced cameras and ranked our top picks in the guide below.
Based on our extensive tests, we think the best cheap camera right now is the Nikon D3500. It's not in production any more, but you can still find the entry-level DSLR available online. That's a good thing, because its capable 24.4MP sensor and massive battery life make it one of the best beginner cameras you can buy.
If you're in the market for a cheap mirrorless camera, we recommend the Fujifilm X-T200. It offers fantastic value, combining an articulating touchscreen, 4K recording and solid stills performance with a conveniently compact retro body.
Whatever your expectations, this list has been assembled to help you choose the best value camera for your needs. Each entry has been tested at length in the real world: our reviewers check everything from handling and battery life to image quality and usability. We've also set out some useful buying advice to point you in the right direction when selecting your ideal cheap camera, while our deal links will take you directly to the best offers currently available online.
Written by
Written by
Timothy Coleman
Cameras EditorTim is TechRadar's Cameras editor, with over 15 years in the photo video industry and most of those in the world of tech journalism, Tim has developed a deeply technical knowledge and practical experience with all things camera related. He’s also worked in video production with clients including Canon, and volunteers his spare time to consult a non-profit, diverse stories team based in Nairobi.
The quick list
Want a shortcut to the best cheap camera for your needs and budget? Use the quick round-up below for an instant overview of the top cheap cameras. When you find a recommendation that fits your requirements, you can read more about it by using the links to jump to our full write-ups.
The best cheap cameras in 2024
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Below you'll find summary reviews for each of the best cheap cameras in our list. We've tested all of them extensively, so you know that you can trust our expert recommendations.
The best cheap camera overall
Buy it if:
✅ You like a traditional DSLR: With great handling and excellent battery life, the Nikon D3500 offers learners all the classic strengths of a DSLR.
✅ You want lots of lenses: Nikon’s well-established DX system has a huge range of lenses to suit almost every budget and genre of photography.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You want to shoot 4K video: The Nikon D3500’s 24.2MP sensor produces excellent stills, but its video resolution is limited to Full HD.
❌ You want a touchscreen: Although the D3500 is easy to use, it doesn’t feature the touchscreen interface found on many contemporary rivals.
DSLRs may be less and less common nowadays, but they still offer excellent value compared to mirrorless cameras – and the Nikon D3500 remains the best budget camera for new photographers. The Nikon D3400 was a hugely successful and popular DSLR, and the Nikon D3500 has taken its baton into the mirrorless age.
Key changes versus the older D3400 include an improved APS-C sensor (though still with a 24MP resolution) and a longer battery life of 1,550 frames per charge, compared to the D3400's already capable 1,200 shots per charge. You also get a better grip and a slightly redesigned body that's a bit lighter, too.
While it's also worth considering the mirrorless alternatives in our guide, the D3500 is the most user-friendly option in this list – particularly if you want to use it with longer lenses. In our tests, we found that it delivered high-quality images and was super-easy to handle and understand, particularly for novices.
Read our in-depth Nikon D3500 review
The best cheap mirrorless camera
(Image credit: TechRadar)
2. Fujifilm X-T200
The best cheap camera with a retro design
Our expert review:
Average Amazon review:
Specifications
Sensor size:
APS-C CMOS
Resolution:
24.2MP
Viewfinder:
EVF OLED, 2,360,000 dots
Monitor:
3.5-inch fully articulating touchscreen, 2,780,000 dots
Maximum continuous shooting rate:
8fps
Movies:
4K
User level:
Beginner
Check AmazonReasons to buy
+
Great color and dynamic range
+
Sharp 3.5-inch rear touchscreen
+
Sleek, lightweight retro design
Reasons to avoid
-
No subject-tracking in video
-
Low buffer depth
Buy it if:
✅ You like retro styling: Among entry-level cameras, the X-T200 is easily one of the most stylish, with a retro DSLR design that stands out.
✅ You want an electronic viewfinder: The eye sensor isn’t completely reliable, but the 2.36 million-dot viewfinder is useful for framing.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You shoot continuous action: 8fps burst shooting speeds are decent, but the limited buffer depth means the rate slows quickly.
❌ You find a good deal on the X-T30: The X-T200 offers excellent value, but Fujifilm’s superior X-T300 can often be found for not much more.
We're still fans of the Fujifilm X-T30, but this cheaper, learner-friendly version of that camera is our favorite mirrorless option for those starting out on their photography or film-making journeys.
It's a big improvement over its X-T100 predecessor in almost every way, including autofocus, and has a fantastic 3.5in rear touchscreen. Unlike the Fujifilm X-A7, you also get a viewfinder for framing shots, which is especially good news in bright light while traveling. We discovered that image quality was reliably lovely in our review, and we loved the retro design.
The only downside we found during our tests is that the subject-tracking can be a little hit-and-miss during burst shooting and isn't available for video, but otherwise this is one of the best cheap cameras around for those who want a new mirrorless model.
Read our in-depth Fujifilm X-T200 review
The best compact mirrorless camera
(Image credit: Future)
Buy it if:
✅ You want a small, powerful stills camera: Compact proportions belie the class-leading stills capabilities of the E-M10 Mark IV.
✅ You often shoot handheld: In-body image stabilization gives the Mark IV an edge over rivals, keeping handheld shots sharp.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You record a lot of video: The E-M10 Mark IV can shoot decent footage, but no mic input and a 4K/30p cap limit its blogging potential.
❌ You own the E-M10 Mark III: Upgrades include a new sensor and flip-down screen, but these don’t justify swapping from the Mark III.
If you’re an eager photographer in the market for a compact mirrorless camera, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV should be top of your list. An affordable Micro Four Thirds model, it pairs a capable 20.3MP sensor with impressive in-body image stabilization to deliver consistently attractive images using the kit lens.
With footage capped at 4K/30p and no microphone or headphone input, video isn’t a major focus. Instead, this is a small, powerful camera for stills: we discovered in our review that dynamic range is better than anything a smartphone can capture, while the IBIS system keeps images sharp even when shooting handheld after dark.
We found that AF tracking across the Mark IV’s 121 points can be a little patchy, but improved face detection and subject tracking from the Mark III mean it’s largely reliable. Our tip is to stick to centre point focus and you’ll find it fast, even in low light.
An ergonomic grip, approachable button layout, and handy flip-down touchscreen make the Mark IV an accessible upgrade for smartphone photographers. And with a wide catalog of lenses available, it shapes up one of the best cheap cameras around if you want a modern mirrorless experience.
Read our in-depth Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV review
The best second-hand camera
(Image credit: Future)
4. Sony Alpha A6000
The best cheap camera to buy second-hand
Our expert review:
Average Amazon review:
Specifications
Type:
Mirrorless
Sensor:
APS-C CMOS, 24.3MP
Lens mount:
Sony E-mount
Screen:
3.0-inch tilt-angle, 921K dots
Viewfinder:
Yes, EVF
Continuous shooting speed:
11fps
Movies:
1080p
User level:
Beginner/enthusiast
View at AmazonReasons to buy
+
Good specs even now
+
11fps burst shooting
Reasons to avoid
-
No touchscreen
-
Full HD video only
Buy it if:
✅ You want a small system camera: Excellent image quality and a useful viewfinder make the A6000 a fantastic small package.
✅ You like personalized controls: All of the buttons and function menus can be customized to give you quick access to your regular settings.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You want a touchscreen interface: The A6000’s display isn’t touch-sensitive and there’s no quick way to set the AF point.
❌ You want an articulating screen: The screen on the A6000 tilts but doesn’t fully articulate, so it’s not as useful for vlogging.
Don’t let the price fool you: the A6000 costs the same as other entry-level DSLR and mirrorless cameras, but it’s an advanced and powerful camera that has only dropped to this price by being on the market since 2014.
It may be old, but most of the specifications still look surprisingly fresh today. This includes a 24MP APS-C sensor, a fast hybrid 179-point autofocus system, and continuous shooting at 11 frames per second (fps). We found during our review that it delivered fantastic image quality.
Its age shows in other areas, though: it only shoots 1080p Full HD video, and the screen isn’t touch-sensitive – which we found to be a little frustrating for setting AF points. Still, the latter is still the case on many Sony cameras and the A6000’s high-end features ensure that it's a camera that will grow with you.
Read our in-depth Sony Alpha A6000 review
The best cheap instant camera
(Image credit: Future)
Buy it if:
✅ You want point-and-shoot simplicity: Auto exposure control and affordable film refills make the Instax Mini 12 an accessible camera to shoot with.
✅ You want vibrant party prints: With rich vintage colors, Instax prints have a distinctively attractive look that’s great for capturing memories.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You shoot in sunlight a lot: The Mini 12 tends to overexpose images in bright light, not helped by the always-on flash which fires every time.
❌ You want a tactile camera: The bubble-like design is fun, but it’s also slippery in the hand making it tricky to keep hold of at times.
Our favorite instant camera is also one of the top cheap cameras for those who want the no-frills fun of instant photography. Simple and affordable, we found in testing that the Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 builds on everything that the Instax Mini 11 did well, making it easy to create punchy party prints.
Though its design proved a little slippery during our review, we think the Mini 12 is otherwise a comfortable camera for anyone to use. It now turns on with a twist of the lens, which we think is more intuitive than previous editions. You still get the option of close-up mode by pulling the lens out, while parallax correction means the viewfinder more accurately represents how scenes will be printed.
From our tests, the Mini 12 still tends to overexpose images in bright sunlight, although repositioned sensors mean your fingers are less likely to interfere with light readings. While prints can seem a little small, the Mini 12 makes it straightforward for first-time users to capture rich, attractive images at a reasonable price.
Read our in-depth Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 review
The best cheap full-frame camera
(Image credit: Future)
Buy it if:
✅ You want full-frame on a budget: Offering a capable feature set at a reasonable price, the EOS RP is a fantastic full-frame entry point.
✅ You want a great value camera: With a light, compact build, solid image quality and stellar AF performance, the EOS RP is a great package.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You like a lot of lens options: There are limited native lenses for the RF mount, and even fewer that make sense on the RP’s small body.
❌ You shoot a lot of video: It can shoot detailed footage, but rolling shutter and cropped 4K limit the video capabilities of the EOS RP.
A portable full-frame mirrorless camera with a capable feature set, sound performance, and reasonable price: the Canon EOS RP is a compelling proposition for those looking to shoot with a large sensor. Built around the same RF mount as the EOS R, its native lens catalog is limited, but a bundled adapter at least allows you to use existing EF glass.
Despite housing a 26.2MP full-frame sensor, our tests found the EOS RP to be remarkably compact yet reassuringly well-made. Button placement will irk some, but we found both the physical controls and touchscreen to be responsive.
With Canon’s Digic 8 processor driving performance, autofocus proved fast and reliable in our review. Burst rates drop to 4fps with continuous focus, but the AF generally did a solid job of locking on. We also found the buffer to be more generous than expected.
As with most affordable cameras, the Canon EOS RP isn’t without compromise. Besides a lack of sensor-based image stabilization, battery life was underwhelming in testing, while the metering system seemed slightly sensitive. Rolling shutter and a 4K crop also limit its video skills. But if you want full-frame mirrorless shooting on a shoestring budget, it’s hard to argue with the Canon EOS RP’s core performance.
Read our in-depth Canon EOS RP review
The best cheap action camera
(Image credit: Future)
7. Akaso Brave 7 LE
The best cheap action camera you can buy
Specifications
Weight:
127g
Waterproof:
IPx7(no case needed), 40M (with case)
4K video:
up to 30fps
1080 video:
up to 120fps
720 video:
up to 240fps
Stills resolution:
20MP
Battery life:
120 mins
View at BHPhotoView at AmazonView at WalmartReasons to buy
+
Dual screens
+
Case-free water resistance
+
Class-leading build quality
Reasons to avoid
-
Jumpy electronic stabilization
-
Cheaper options have better 4K
Buy it if:
✅ You want a cheap action camera: A feature-packed 4K camera with two screens, the Akaso Brave 7 LE represents excellent value.
✅ You want reliable build quality: Despite its affordable price, the Akaso Brave 7 LE is a well-built action camera with weather sealing.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You want the best stabilization: The Akaso’s electronic image stabilization can be jumpy, and doesn’t match up to a GoPro’s abilities.
❌ You want the sharpest 4K footage: 4K video from the Akaso Brave 7 LE is good, but can appear slightly soft compared to rivals.
If you need a cheap action camera, then the Brave 7 LE should certainly make your shortlist. Considering its price tag, it's packed with features including weather-sealing and a front-facing screen that's handy for vloggers. We also found that this action cam's audio was better than any other action cam outside of GoPro, in quieter environments at least.
The Brave 7 LE also has an intuitive touchscreen interface, which is another feature that tends to be overlooked by budget action cams. Downsides? While the video quality is decent at 4K resolution, its slightly soft look doesn't quite match the rest of the action cam's features. The image stabilization also falls short of GoPro standards. But for the price, it's still one of the best all-round action cams you can buy.
The best cheap tough camera
(Image credit: Future)
Buy it if:
✅ You want an intuitive rugged camera: Super tough yet easy to operate, the TG-6 is an ideal choice for adventurous novices.
✅ You’d like a compact camera: The Tough TG-6 is conveniently pocketable, yet an internally stacked zoom lens keeps it versatile.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You need the best image quality: Image quality is fair, but a small sensor at the heart of the TG-6 means stills aren’t outstanding.
❌ You mainly shoot in bright conditions: Both the image quality and the LCD display suffer in bright outdoor conditions.
Breaking your camera is one way to make photography an expensive hobby. Investing in a rugged model should cut replacement costs – and the Olympus Tough TG-6 is one of the best tough cameras you can buy. Freeze-proof, shockproof and waterproof: its reassuringly industrial shell is robust enough to survive all manner of extreme scenarios. It’s also an intuitive camera to use: in testing, we found its arge buttons made operation accessible, while an improved 3-inch LCD display ensured good visibility in bright conditions.
Focusing proved snappy during our review, while an equivalent zoom range of 25-100mm adds welcome versatility, even if a little detail is lost at the telephoto end. Our tests revealed that image quality is decent enough for a 1/2.3-inch sensor, with rich colors – although the TG-6 is prone to overexposure. The older TG-5 is similarly equipped and less expensive, but the TG-6 represents excellent value for adventurous photographers thanks to its significantly sharper screen.
Read our in-depth Olympus Tough TG-6 review
The best cheap compact camera
(Image credit: Future)
Buy it if:
✅ You want a compact travel camera: Pocket-friendly yet equipped with 1-inch sensor and 10x optical zoom, the TZ100 is built for travel.
✅ You value good controls: With plenty of buttons and dials, plus a responsive touchscreen, the TZ100 is an enjoyable camera to use.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You like an articulating display: Unlike many rivals, the Panasonic TZ100 has a fixed display which limits framing flexibility.
❌ You want ergonomic handling: The TZ100 is nice to operate, but its small proportions mean the hand grip isn’t the biggest.
Back in 2017, we called the Panasonic TZ100 “the perfect compact camera.” Although several models have since arrived with superior specs, the TZ100 remains a fantastic option for those looking for an affordable travel camera.
Its metal shell is solid yet small enough to slip into a pocket. The main controls are clustered on the back for easy one-handed control, while function buttons offer the welcome option of customization. The touchscreen is responsive, too.
On the go, we discovered that the TZ100’s 1-inch sensor (larger than most smartphones') delivers vibrant, punchy images with a fair level of detail for an older compact, even in low light. Dynamic range is also decent and noise isn’t generally an issue. The 10x optical zoom will be versatile enough for most, while the option of shooting 4K footage makes simple vlogs an option as well.
Sure, it's not quite as powerful as today’s premium compacts, but the TZ100 is plenty good enough for taking travel snaps to share online and will still surpass most smartphones.
Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix ZS100 / TZ100 review
The best cheap vlogging camera
(Image credit: Future)
10. Panasonic Lumix G100
The best camera for vlogging on a budget
Our expert review:
Specifications
Type:
Mirrorless
Sensor:
Micro Four Thirds, 20.3MP
Lens:
Micro Four Thirds
Screen:
3.0-inch articulating, 1,840K dots
Viewfinder:
EVF, 3,680K dots
Continuous shooting:
10fps
Movies:
4K
User level:
Beginner
Reasons to buy
+
Compact, travel-friendly design
+
Useful optional tripod grip
Reasons to avoid
-
Smaller sensor than some rivals
-
Video crop when shooting 4K
Buy it if:
✅ You want a versatile vlogging tool: With plenty of video-focused features, including three mics, the G100 is a great choice for vloggers.
✅ You need something lightweight: Built small but powerful, the G100 is a neatly sized smartphone alternative for shooting on the move.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You shoot a lot in low light: The Panasonic G100 does well in a lot of scenarios, but its small sensor struggles with a loss of detail after dark.
❌ You value direct access controls: Its smaller body is convenient, but also means the G100 doesn’t have space for many physical controls.
With a compact design and solid feature set, we think the G100 is an excellent choice for vloggers and YouTubers without a big budget. We found its small size and weight convenient in testing, making the G100 an easy camera to travel with, even if that means sacrificing the direct access controls found on larger alternatives. The G100 also benefits from a wide array of compatible Micro Four Thirds lenses, offering useful versatility.
We were impressed in our review with the video-focused features of the G100, particularly the Nokia Ozo Audio system. This uses three microphones to automatically detect sound from different directions, and it worked very effectively in testing. The quality of footage also proved good on the whole, with great colors and detail. That said, we were disappointed with the smudging of details in low light, and the crop on 4K 30p video.
If you mainly shoot stills, you’ll find better overall value from cameras like the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV. But if you’re looking for a small shooting tool with powerful video features, we think the G100 is a budget winner.
Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix G100 review
The best cheap bridge camera
(Image credit: Future)
11. Panasonic Lumix FZ80 / FZ82
The best cheap super-zoom bridge camera
Our expert review:
Average Amazon review:
Specifications
Sensor:
1/2.3-inch CMOS, 18.1MP
Lens:
20-1200mm, f/2.8-5.9
Monitor:
3-inch touchscreen, 1,040,000 dots
Viewfinder:
EVF
Maximum continuous shooting rate:
10fps
Movies:
4K
User level:
Beginner/enthusiast
Check AmazonReasons to buy
+
Easy to use
+
Effective image stabilization
Reasons to avoid
-
No eye sensor for EVF
-
Weak high-ISO performance
Buy it if:
✅ You want an easy all-in-one option: Capable yet straightforward to use, the FZ80 / FZ82 is a great entry-level all-rounder.
✅ You need powerful optical zoom: With a huge 20-1200mm zoom range, this is very versatile option for use in a range of scenarios.
Don't buy it if:
❌ You shoot regularly after dark: Noise at the highest ISO settings is high, which means this isn’t the best choice for low-light photography.
❌ You want the best EVF: The viewfinder lacks punch, while low magnification makes it feel as if the image is at the end of a tunnel.
Launched in 2017, the Panasonic Lumix FZ80 (also known as the Lumix FZ82 outside the US) is still one of the most affordable bridge cameras you can buy. It remains a solid choice if zoom reach is your priority: its lens goes from an ultra-wide 20mm all the way to the far reaches of 1200mm. During our review, it proved capable of producing decent image quality – as long as you're aware of its limitations.
We found it best to shoot no higher than ISO 800, or ISO 1600 in an emergency, so it's best to avoid low light. But in daylight conditions, it's still a very useful companion, particularly at this price – and we found that Panasonic's Power O.I.S. image stabilization kept things nice and stable at longer focal lengths. Sure, the viewfinder could be better, but this remains one of the best cheap bridge cameras around.
Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix FZ80 / FZ82 review
How to choose the best cheap camera for you
How to choose
Buying a budget camera will usually mean accepting a few compromises. A cheaper DSLR might not capture 4K footage, for example, while a more affordable mirrorless model may lack a viewfinder or shoot at lower burst speeds than its costlier competitors. But whichever type of camera you decide to buy, you should consider what and how you like to shoot – and make sure that, at the very least, it ticks the key boxes for your specific needs.
So if you normally shoot stills, a cheap camera’s video skills are less important. Instead of focusing on whether it can capture 4K footage, look for something with a decent sensor and a relatively high resolution (20MP and above). Similarly, if you’re happy framing with an optical viewfinder and using buttons to navigate system menus, you don’t need to worry too much about whether a camera has a sharp touchscreen interface. But it is always worth making sure that a camera’s handling is comfortable and that its physical controls are useful and accessible.
If you’re shopping for an affordable travel camera, your focus should be battery life and zoom versatility. Don’t get too caught up in software tricks or raw shooting. Those are nice extras, but it’s much easier to edit JPEGs when you’re back home than it is to crop in on a faraway subject.
And if you’re planning to buy an interchangeable lens camera, be sure to consider the cost of lenses. A camera body might be cheap, but expensive glass will limit your ability to experiment with different barrels. Look for a camera with a popular lens mount (Micro Four Thirds, for example) to ensure you have maximum flexibility when it comes to buying new glass.
Which camera is best for a low budget?
The list above features a range of cameras to suit photographers with a limited budget. Which option is best for you will depend on what you’ll use your camera for and how versatile you’d like it to be.
One option is to consider entry-level models like the Nikon D3500. These are designed with new photographers in mind, so they usually feature simple, accessible controls that are easy to get to grips with. To keep costs down, entry-level cameras don’t usually include advanced features or performance, but they should nail the basics. That means solid battery life, great handling, and decent image quality.
You can also consider older mid-range mirrorless cameras. These won’t offer cutting-edge technology, but should still be very capable – especially if you’re upgrading from a smartphone. Previous generations tend to be discounted as newer versions arrive, which means models that are a few years old normally become more affordable. Take a look at the Sony A6000: its price now is a lot lower than when it launched in 2014, yet it still features a 24.3MP sensor, 11fps burst shooting and a capable 179-point autofocus system.
If you’re looking for a cheap travel camera, powerful compacts like the Panasonic TZ100 offer excellent value and versatility, with its 1-inch sensor and 10x optical zoom. Or if it’s an outright bargain you’re after, instant cameras are a cheap, accessible way to have fun with photography. Models like the Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 are easy and enjoyable to use, producing immediate prints that make shooting more tactile.
There’s also value to be found in lesser-known names. The Akaso Brave 7 LE, for example, is our favorite cheap action camera. The make might not be famous, but the camera is feature-packed and intuitive, making it the best budget action cam you can buy.
(Image credit: Future)
How we test cheap cameras
We test cheap cameras in the same way as models with higher price tags: thoroughly. While the value may play a more important role in our overall rankings, the cameras themselves still need to perform in the real world. Putting them through our usual test procedures lets us see which ones outperform their price tags, and which haven't dated so well.
To start with, we look at the camera's design, handling, and controls to get a feel for which kind of photographer it's most suitable for. We then take it out on a shoot, where we'll test its startup speed and use it both handheld and on a tripod.
To assess the camera's performance, we use a formatted SD card and shoot in both raw and JPEG (if available). For burst shooting tests, we dial in our regular test settings (1/250 sec, ISO 200, continuous AF) and shoot a series of frames in front of a stopwatch to see if it matches its official speeds. We'll also look at how quickly the buffers clears and repeat the test for both raw and JPEG files.
In various lighting conditions, we also test the camera's different autofocus modes (including Face and Eye AF) in single point, area, and continuous modes. We'll also shoot a mix of photos (portrait, low light, landscape, macro/close-up) in RAW and JPEG to get a feel for the camera's metering accuracy and its sensor's ability to handle noise and resolve fine detail.
Assuming the camera's RAW files are supported by Adobe Camera Raw, we'll also process some test images to see how far we can push areas like shadow recovery. We'll also test its ISO performance across the whole range to get a sense of the levels we'd be happy to push the camera to.
Battery life is tested over the course of a day with the screen set to the default brightness level. Once the battery has hit zero, we'll then count the number of shots to see how it compares to the camera's official CIPA rating. Finally, we test the camera's video skills by shooting some test footage at different frame rates and resolutions, along with its companion app.
We then take everything we've learned about the camera and factor in its price to get a sense of the value for money it offers, before reaching our final verdict.
What makes the best cheap camera? There are plenty of low-cost cameras on the market, but that doesn't always mean they give you good image quality, design, and performance at the same time. In this guide, we recommend cameras that balance a combination of features and good value.
Some of these cameras originally sold for a lot more money than they do now, and they're only cheaper now because their tech is slightly dated (but still good). Some new cameras in this guide have been designed to offer the best features for the least money and succeed brilliantly at doing so.
Our best cheap camera deals aren't only at the lower end of the market. There are cameras here for experts and enthusiasts, too. In this guide, we've picked out DSLR cameras and mirrorless cameras - all designed for serious photography.
There are even cheaper alternatives than this, and if you have a strict budget check out our best cameras under $100/£100, or best cameras under $200/£200, or best cameras under $500/£500.
Since the focus is on value, we've put these cameras in approximate price order, with the cheapest first and the better, more advanced cameras further down the list. It's up to you how far you want to go in the pursuit of quality, but all of these cameras offer a lot for your money.
Sebastian Oakley
Ecommerce EditorFor nearly two decades Sebastian's work has been published internationally. Originally specializing in Equestrianism, his visuals have been used by the leading names in the equestrian industry such as The Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI), The Jockey Club, Horse & Hound, and many more for various advertising campaigns, books, and pre/post-event highlights.
He is a Fellow of The Royal Society of Arts, holds a Foundation Degree in Equitation Science, and is a Master of Arts in Publishing. He is a member of Nikon NPS and has been a Nikon user since the film days using a Nikon F5 and saw the digital transition with Nikon's D series cameras and is still to this day the youngest member to be elected into BEWA, The British Equestrian Writers' Association.
He is familiar with and shows great interest in street, medium, and large format photography with products by Leica, Phase One, Hasselblad, Alpa, and Sinar. Sebastian has also used many cinema cameras from the likes of Sony, RED, ARRI, and everything in between. He now spends his spare time using his trusted Leica M-E shooting Street/Life photography, usually in Black and White.
Best cheap cameras: our top picks
The best cheap cameras in 2024
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Best overall
(Image credit: Future)
The Canon Rebel T7 (EOS 2000D in some territories) is pretty old and nothing special in terms of specs - it has a fixed rear screen, only shoots full HD video, and it doesn't come with Canon's Dual Pixel CMOS AF for faster focusing in live view. But fewer features means it's easier to get to grips with the basics, and this camera will still let you take control of your photography, which matters way more than extra megapixels or tilting screens.
The T7 does have a 24-megapixel sensor, which is pretty amazing for the money, and for anyone wanting to get started with a proper camera at the lowest possible price, it's a perfectly competent camera at a rock-bottom price. What's more, it opens up access to a truly vast selection of Canon EF-mount lenses, and with it almost limitless options for creativity.
Read our full Canon EOS Rebel T7/ EOS 2000D review for more details
Best for value
(Image credit: Future)
Launched way back in 2015, the Lumix G7 is a generation or two behind the latest Panasonic technologies, but it was surprisingly modern for its day and is still a compelling budget buy even now.
The 16MP Micro Four Thirds sensor is a little behind the latest for outright resolution, but the image quality is pretty good and the camera can even shoot 4K video. There's no in-body stabilization, but many Panasonic lenses are stabilized and there are lots of small and affordable lenses out there for this camera.
It may be sold with a Panasonic 14-42mm kit lens, which is fine, but if you can get it with the later and better 12-60mm kit lens, all the better!
Read our full Panasonic G7 review for more details
Best for travel
(Image credit: Future)
The diminutive GX85 (called the GX80 in Europe) has an older 16MP Micro-Four-Thirds sensor, but still takes top-quality images and can also shoot 4K video. The built-in electronic viewfinder (amazing in a mirrorless camera at this price) makes it a great option for use in harsh sunlight or darker conditions, while the tilting screen makes it easy to shoot from ground level.
Together with Panasonic's tiny Micro Four Thirds lenses, this makes it perfect for traveling or holidays. These days it looks like you can only get this great little camera in a twin-lens kit which also includes the compact Panasonic 45-150mm telephoto. It's a great combination at a great price, but being a twin-lens kit it does push the price up.
See our full Panasonic GX85 / GX80 review
Best Sony
(Image credit: Matthew Richards/Digital Camera World)
The A6100 includes a 180-degree touchscreen for selfies and vlogging, 4K video, and a faster and more advanced autofocus system. We weren't bowled over by the A6100 when it first came out because it cost far more than the A6000 it replaced, but now its been out a while prices have fallen, and it's simply a much better camera.
Overall, the A6100 is a good choice for beginners, vloggers, and anyone else wanting to jump up from a smartphone/point-and-shoot to get manual mode, zoom and better images on a serious – and seriously portable – camera.
Read our full Sony A6100 review for more details
Best for vlogging
(Image credit: Jon Devo)
Vloggers and creatives more broadly will enjoy the simplicity of the Lumix G100. It makes it easy to capture high-quality video and stills with its approachable button layout. Even people uninterested in the technicalities of capturing great-looking videos will be able to get results with this camera.
There’s an inherent risk of dumbing things down too much when creating a camera for social media creatives, but Panasonic has avoided that pitfall with the Lumix G100, as we discovered to our delight when we gave it a full review.
By giving it a decent viewfinder and “proper camera” ergonomics, Panasonic has given the G100 an edge in a highly competitive market. This is a great camera to start with if you're more interested in vlogging than regular photography – or both!
Read more Panasonic Lumix G100 review for more details
Best for YouTube
(Image credit: Rod Lawton/Digital Camera World)
The Sony ZV-E10 is not going to win any awards on the photography front, where its specs are good but completely mainstream – but it is a great option for content creators cutting their teeth in vlogging and videography. While Sony hasn't moved its APS-C 4K video tech along much in recent years, the ZV-E10 is the manufacturer's first APS-C body to feature an articulating touchscreen (which is obviously vital for vlogging).
It also packs a large and well-performing internal microphone (with clip-on muffler), Sony's excellent autofocus, and an appealing price tag. It's a shame that there is no in-body image stabilization, and the menus can't be touch-controlled (a rather glaring omission for a vlogging camera), but for a very specific YouTube-era audience, this camera hits the nail on the head.
Read our full Sony ZV-E10 review for more details
Best Canon mirrorless
(Image credit: James Artaius)
With the mirrorless EOS M50, we think Canon hit the sweet spot. This camera is easy to use for beginners but has a built-in electronic viewfinder.
The EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM kit lens has a retracting mechanism to make the camera smaller to carry around when it's not in use, and there is a small but handy selection of other EOS M lenses you can use with this camera. If travel is your thing and a couple of lenses are all you need, the EOS M50 is great, and because it's now been out for a little while, the prices are starting to fall.
Now that Canon has introduced APS-C models into its newer RF-mount range of mirrorless cameras (check out the EOS R100 and EOS R50), prices of the M50 Mark II have started to fall making this a great budget buy.
Read our Canon EOS M50 Mark II review for more details
Best hybrid camera
(Image credit: Future)
Panasonic's Lumix camera models can quickly leave you feeling lost and confused, especially since many of the older models remain on sale, so we're here to straighten it out. The Lumix G85 (or G80 in some territories) is Panasonic's DSLR-style enthusiast camera. It replaces the Lumix G7 (above) and was then superseded by the G95 (G90). The G95/90 is getting harder to find now, but the G85/80 is still on sale at great prices.
This is a powerful, good-handling camera with a vari-angle screen and an electronic viewfinder. The 16MP sensor is not the newest, but still pretty good, but this camera has in-body stabilization, which makes it a good step up from the older G7. The G85/80 is often sold with Panasonic's newer 12-60mm kit lens, which makes this camera an even better deal.
See our full Panasonic G85 / G80 review
Best retro camera
(Image credit: Future)
The E-M10 IV was affordable right from the start, and it's one of our favorite cheap cameras for beginners, bloggers, and travel fans. The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV's predecessor, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III, was a great camera with plenty to offer.
However, its aging 16MP sensor and contrast AF left room for improvement. Luckily the Mark IV is a great update, with the same 20.3MP sensor as the PEN-F and improved Continuous Autofocus. While some improvements are incremental, the Mark IV brings some interesting new offerings to the table including a zippy 15fps continuous burst mode.
We're also a fan of the extra-tiltable screen, which is capable of flipping 180° down to create the perfect selfie screen.
Read our full Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV review for more details
Best full frame camera
(Image credit: Future)
The Canon EOS RP was Canon's second full-frame mirrorless camera, and it's smaller, lighter, and a lot cheaper than all of the others. It's designed to be a compact, affordable, and easy-to-use entry point into Canon's full-frame mirrorless system, and it succeeds brilliantly.
Its small dimensions mean it can sometimes feel overbalanced by larger lenses, though, and the 4K video mode comes with some caveats – the image frame is cropped by a factor of 1.6 and you can't use Canon's speedy Dual Pixel CMOS AF system unless you drop the resolution to full HD.
On the upside, the pictures are clear and sharp, the vari-angle touchscreen display is a real advantage for both stills and video, and the inclusion of an EF lens adaptor means you can use existing Canon DSLR lenses alongside the new but growing RF lens system.
At $1,000/£1,000 or more you wouldn't say it was 'cheap' in the general run of things, but for a full-frame camera, its price is practically miraculous.
Read our full Canon EOS RP review for more details
How we test cameras
We test DSLR and mirrorless cameras both in real-world shooting scenarios and in carefully controlled lab conditions. Our lab tests measure resolution, dynamic range, and signal-to-noise ratio. Resolution is measured using ISO resolution charts, dynamic range is measured using DxO Analyzer test equipment and DxO Analyzer is also used for noise analysis across the camera's ISO range. We use both real-world testing and lab results to inform our comments in buying guides.
Find out more about how we test and review on Digital Camera World
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