As Technology progresses, the best DSLR cameras under $500 in 2021 are becoming more efficient and offer state-of-the-art features at reasonable rates.
It shows that the best cameras are not always expensive, and entry-level devices can offer Incredible features. The best DSLR cameras come in compact and lightweight bodies too. So how is it possible for manufacturers to create tech-savvy cameras at affordable rates? It is one of the reasons that cameras include more and more advanced features as days pass by.
Another reason is that the best DSLR cameras are available at cheap rates – most camera companies put their old models on the shelf for months. It means that the consumers can bargain if they are not worried about having the latest models.
So what can you expect from a camera that costs $500? You get to choose from advanced compact cameras, mirrorless cameras, mirrorless cameras, or a DSLR. If you are on the lookout for the best DSLR under $500, you are in the right place. Note that it is not a one-size-fits-all product. So, you need to choose one based on how you are going to use it.
Table of Contents
What are the benefits of using a budget-friendly DSLR camera?
When you switch on to a budget-friendly DSLR camera, you can have a better picture quality. You can also have access to more manual controls. The low light feature of a DSLR camera is improved. It is far better than smartphones and compact cameras.
With a DSLR camera, you have the liberty to change the frame and lens, which you can’t do with a point-and-shoot camera. When you are new to shutter speed and aperture, you can try them out on a budget-friendly DSLR. The lens of the best DSLR under $500 covers a decent focal length. It is until you have the budget to go for a high-end DSLR camera.
1. EOS Rebel T7i DSLR camera
The entry-level DSLR line of Canon cameras is known for its ease of use. The best DSLR camera under $500 includes a simplified control layout, user-friendly and color-coded system. EOS Rebel T7 Is not an exception and includes a 24.1 MP camera. Additionally, it includes a 9-point face detecting and autofocusing system.
Quality and resolution
Considering the resolution and focusing features of smartphones available, it may seem underrated. It allows you to capture time-lapse movies and add them together using an exposure soothing function.
It allows you to remove variations in lighting conditions while capturing videos.
Construction
Like the T6i, the T7i best DSLR camera under $500 has an aluminum alloy and polycarbonate combination. The company managed to shave off 20 grams from the predecessor and managed to keep the weight limited to 532 g including the card and battery. There is no denying that the camera has a premium construction, but the matte plastic construction of the camera doesn’t feel good.
The best DSLR camera under $500 is quite compact and the handgrip is stunningly deep.
Pros
- The Digic 7 processor can fire shots at 6 fps.
- The Autofocus technology of the T7i has reliable, accurate, and quick auto-focusing ability.
Crons
- It is expThe camera doesn’t include a built-in GPSr.
- When compared with its rivals, Canon T7i has low image quality.
2. Nikon D5600 entry-level DSLR camera
It’s another DSLR that is holding the market share despite the growing popularity of mirrorless cameras. When it comes to performance, the D5600 comes powered by the EXPEED 4 processor. The native lightness ranges from ISO100 to 25,6000 units. With the D500, You will find it comfortable shooting in a range of lighting conditions.
Display resolution
In terms of display, the best DSLR camera under $500 comes with a 3.2-inch vario-angle touch screen With 10 37,000 display resolution. Like the D50 and D500, it comes with a frame- advance bar. It has a crop function for using the back camera.
A new feature that got added to the D5500 is a timelapse movie function.
Construction
The DSLR camera company has a monocoque body for the latest D5600 DSLR. It allows the company to keep the weight down while reducing the number of parts used. D5500 and D5600 share the same dimension and construction. It has a weight of 465 grams and a measurement of 124 by 97 by 70 mm.
Pros
- It comes with a 39 point AF system. It is more effective to shoot still videos in live view mode.
- It has 1.02 million dot articulating touch-sensitive screens.
Crons
- It’s a solid camera based on its configuration, but the pricing and autofocus lower down the value.
- It lacks an aperture control feature and AF issues in video shooting.
3. Canon Rebel T100 DSLR camera
If you are looking for the best DSLR under $500, switch on to the Canon Rebel T100 camera. The image quality of the camera is far better than that of smartphones. If you are an amateur looking to learn more about high-end cameras, it’s an excellent option. If it’s not the best, the unit packs a lot of features like that of a good high-end camera. Canon Rebel t100 is a good option for anyone who wants to have a DSLR camera without spending much.
Quality image
Canon T100 has a pretty good image quality that occasionally disappoints you. The ISO range of the camera is low and lies within 100 to 6400. Anyone shooting in the JPEG range will experience occasional falls under 1000. RaW format photos are of supreme quality within ISO 640.
Construction
The APS-C feature gives it an edge when it comes to capturing details. The best part is that it includes thousands of lenses that are compatible with the Canon EF-S mount. It is available on high-end and expensive DSLR cameras.
Pros
- The battery lasts up to 500 shots in a single charge.
- It comes with an easy-to-understand button layout.
Crons
- Nine AF points remain clustered within the center of the frame.
- Live view is not up to the mark, especially during video shooting in low-light conditions.
4. Pentax K-30 DSLR camera
Pentax DSLR camera comes with developer studio for Pentax 3.0 that is compatible with K-30. It is a conversation app developed by the Ichikawa lab. Silkypix offers a range of state-of-the-art features of the RAW platform. If you are on the lookout for the best DSLR camera under $500, switch on Pentax K-30.
Picture resolution
The Pentax K-30 comes with the Prime m image processor that got optimized for video shooting. It also captures still videos at a rate of 6 frames per second. It comes with an image resolution of 1920 by 1020 pixels. It allows you to capture 30, 25, and 24 frames per second. Video clips get compressed in Mpeg4 and MOV format. It comes equipped with an IXi+ autofocus feature.
Construction
It comes with a weatherproof sealant body that’s ideal for capturing videos and photos in all conditions. It likewise comes with a cool-proof design that allows subfreezing to capture winter videos. The top plate of the DSLR camera comes with a suite of easy-to-read menus.
Pros
- The still image quality is good.
- It has excellent photo quality with reduced noise.
Crons
- The entry-level DSLR camera lacks touch-sensitive movie capturing features.
- It can’t maintain continuous AF while capturing videos.
- Low speed of focusing in live view mode
Buyer’s Guide on Best DSLR Cameras Under $500
The lens of the DSLR camera
The lens is one of the most essential features of the best DSLR camera under $500. The quality of photos captured by the DSLR camera relies on the lens of the camera. Shoppers should choose a DSLR camera with a competitive range of lenses. Note that the actual quality of the image relies on the nature of the lens. It creates a difference between simple snapshots and professional images. You need to know that lenses are available in different sizes. Check that the lens is compatible with the body of the camera.
Quality of the Sensor
The quality of the sensor is another thing to look for when buying the best DSLR under $500.
Medium format cameras have the best-in-class sensors. The quality of the medium-format cameras is to be the best. Dimension of the best-in-class sensor measures 50 mm by 40 mm.
Full-range sensor: It is a high-quality sensor with a range of 35 mm by 24 mm. With a high-quality sensor, you can click HD pictures with ease. With a spacious dimension and Area, it helps you capture a better snap.
Crop Sensor: It is the sensor for the best DSLR camera under $500 for value. The size of the crop sensor varies from one brand to the other.
1/4th Sensor: It is the sensor of DSLR cameras used by travelers. The quality of the sensor is not commendable.
Picture resolution
Megapixel resolution is one of the determinants when it comes to buying DSLR cameras. More megapixel resolution doesn’t mean that the quality of the picture is good. Sensors are far more valuable than an MP resolution.
Adaptability
Make sure that you check the adaptability of the camera before buying a DSLR camera. You should check whether the picture quality remains the same when clicked in the daytime as well as in darkness. The camera should be able to click pictures in multiple modes and conditions. Adaptability is a vital factor of DSLR cameras.
FAQ on the best DSLR camera under $500
Which one is a better DSLR producer? Canon vs. Nikon
Even though Pentax has some of the best DSLR cameras available there, Canon and Nikon still rule as the DSLR manufacturers. In terms of picture quality and price range, they are equally competent. So, which entry-level DSLR camera is the best one for you? After all, it’s a personal choice when it comes to the best DSLR under $500.
If you are on the lookout for a budget-friendly DSLR camera, choose one from the above. In case you are conscious about budget, you will find wallet-friendly options available. The only difference between Nikon and a Canon DSLR camera is the design. While one has an internal menu setup, the other has a button layout. The ultimate choice comes down to you getting one that you find suitable.
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Conclusion
It was not possible to get a decent camera under $500, but its technical advances made it possible. It is now possible for people to opt for DSLR within budget. When you buy one of the listed cameras, you can get it with a lens kit. Faster lenses will tell you to shoot with a low ISO, Which means that you can capture improved features at low light. Based on our review, the EOS Rebel T7i DSLR camera is the best DSLR under $500. Canon EOS Rebel T100 The best DSLR for value.
