The 20 Best Budget-Friendly Cameras for Beginners in 2025

If you're just starting out in photography and want a camera that won't break the bank, you're in luck! I've put together a list of 20 budget-friendly cameras perfect for beginners, all under $1,000, with some great used options for even less. These cameras are easy to use, take great photos, and let you grow as a photographer without spending a fortune. Below, I'll break down each camera, including prices and why they're a good fit for you.

Camera Types and Prices

Most of these cameras are either mirrorless or DSLRs, which are great for learning photography. Prices range from around $300 for used models like the Nikon D3500 to $900 for newer ones like the Fujifilm X-T30 II. Some come with lens kits, which can add a bit to the cost but are worth it for beginners.

Top Picks for Beginners

Here are a few highlights to get you started:

• Canon EOS R100 (~$500): A compact mirrorless with quick autofocus, perfect for learning.

• Nikon D3500 (~$350 used): A simple DSLR with guide mode to help you learn settings.

• Sony ZV-E10 ($598): Great for vloggers with a flip-out screen and excellent video quality.

For a full list, check out the detailed article down below:

1. Canon EOS R100 (~$500)

The Canon EOS R100 is a fantastic entry-level mirrorless camera that’s compact and beginner-friendly. With a 24.1MP APS-C sensor, it captures sharp, vibrant images, even in low light. Its dual-pixel autofocus locks onto subjects quickly, making it great for portraits or action shots. The camera’s simple interface and auto modes are perfect for those just starting out, and it supports 4K video (cropped) for budding videographers. At around $500, often including a kit lens like the RF-S 18-45mm, it’s a steal for a modern mirrorless system. Plus, Canon’s RF lens ecosystem means you can upgrade lenses as you grow. Ideal for anyone wanting a lightweight, versatile camera without a steep learning curve.

2. Canon EOS R50 ($629, $749 with lens)

Stepping up a bit, the Canon EOS R50 is a mirrorless gem for beginners who want a bit more flair. Priced at $629 body-only or $749 with a kit lens, it’s still budget-friendly. The 24.2MP APS-C sensor delivers crisp images, and the vari-angle touchscreen is a dream for vloggers or creative angles. Its autofocus is lightning-fast, tracking faces and eyes with ease, which is great for portraits or pets. You also get uncropped 4K video and a compact design that’s easy to carry. The R50’s beginner-friendly menus and creative filters make it fun to experiment, and it’s part of Canon’s RF system for future lens upgrades. Perfect for those who want a balance of photography and video.

3. Canon EOS 250D / Rebel SL3 ($649, $749 with lens)

The Canon EOS 250D, also known as the Rebel SL3, is one of the smallest DSLRs out there, making it a great pick for beginners who prefer the traditional DSLR feel. At $649 body-only or $749 with an 18-55mm lens, it’s affordable and packed with features. The 24.1MP APS-C sensor produces detailed images, and the flip-out touchscreen is ideal for selfies or vlogging. It shoots 4K video and has dual-pixel autofocus in live view, which is super smooth for video or composing on the screen. The guided interface helps you learn settings, and its lightweight build (just 449g) makes it travel-friendly. A solid choice for those who want a DSLR with modern perks.

4. Canon EOS Rebel T7 / 2000D (~$400)

If you’re on a tight budget, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 (or 2000D) is a no-frills DSLR that gets the job done. Priced around $400, often with an 18-55mm kit lens, it’s one of the most affordable ways to dive into photography. The 24.1MP APS-C sensor delivers solid image quality for the price, and the simple controls are perfect for beginners. It shoots Full HD video (not 4K), which is fine for casual clips. The optical viewfinder and long battery life (up to 500 shots) are classic DSLR perks, and the guided mode helps you understand settings. While it lacks some bells and whistles, it’s a reliable starter camera for learning the basics.

5. Nikon D3500 (~$350 used)

The Nikon D3500 is a legendary beginner DSLR, and while it’s discontinued, you can snag used ones for around $350, often with a kit lens. Its 24.2MP APS-C sensor captures stunningly sharp images, and the guide mode is like having a built-in photography tutor, walking you through settings. The camera’s compact for a DSLR, weighing just 415g, and its battery lasts up to 1,550 shots—perfect for long shooting days. It shoots Full HD video but skips 4K, and the fixed screen isn’t ideal for vlogging. Still, its affordability and image quality make it a favorite for budget-conscious beginners who want a traditional DSLR experience.

6. Nikon D5600 (~$450 used)

A step up from the D3500, the Nikon D5600 is another DSLR that’s a great used buy at around $450. It boasts a 24.2MP APS-C sensor for excellent image quality and a vari-angle touchscreen, which is awesome for creative angles or vlogging. The 39-point autofocus system is reliable for tracking moving subjects, and it shoots Full HD video. The D5600’s build feels more premium than the D3500, and it offers Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for easy photo transfers. Its guide mode helps beginners learn, and Nikon’s F-mount lens system gives you tons of affordable lens options. A fantastic used DSLR for those wanting a bit more versatility.

7. Sony A6100 (~$600)

Sony’s A6100 is a mirrorless camera that punches above its weight for around $600, often with a 16-50mm kit lens. The 24.2MP APS-C sensor delivers crisp, colorful images, and Sony’s autofocus is next-level, with real-time tracking and eye detection for humans and animals. It’s great for portraits or pets. The flip-up touchscreen and 4K video make it a solid choice for vloggers, and its compact design is easy to carry. The electronic viewfinder helps you compose shots in bright light, and Sony’s E-mount lenses offer plenty of upgrade options. Perfect for beginners who want a modern, all-around performer.

8. Sony A6400 ($748)

The Sony A6400, priced at $748 body-only, is a slightly more advanced mirrorless option for beginners ready to stretch their budget. Its 24.2MP APS-C sensor is paired with a high-resolution electronic viewfinder and Sony’s stellar autofocus, which tracks subjects like a pro. The flip-up touchscreen and uncropped 4K video make it a vlogging favorite, and it handles low-light shooting well with clean high-ISO performance. The A6400’s compact body is weather-sealed, which is great for outdoor adventures. While it’s pricier than the A6100, the better build and EVF make it worth considering for those who want a camera to grow into.

9. Sony ZV-E10 ($598)

Designed with vloggers in mind, the Sony ZV-E10 is a mirrorless camera that’s also great for stills, priced at $598, often with a 16-50mm lens. The 24.2MP APS-C sensor captures sharp images, and the flip-out touchscreen is perfect for framing yourself while recording. Its autofocus is top-notch, with eye-tracking for crisp video and photos. The ZV-E10 shines with 4K video and features like background defocus for a pro look with one tap. It’s lightweight at 343g and has a microphone input for better audio. A great pick for beginners interested in both vlogging and photography.

10. Sony α6000 (~$350 used)

The Sony α6000 is an older mirrorless camera but still a fantastic budget option at around $350 used, often with a kit lens. Its 24.3MP APS-C sensor delivers excellent image quality, and the fast hybrid autofocus keeps up with moving subjects. The electronic viewfinder and tilting screen help with composition, and it shoots Full HD video (no 4K). At just 344g, it’s super portable, and Sony’s E-mount lenses give you room to grow. While it lacks some newer features like advanced video, its price and performance make it a killer deal for beginners on a tight budget.

11. Fujifilm X-T30 II ($899)

The Fujifilm X-T30 II is the priciest on this list at $899, but it’s worth it for beginners who want a creative edge. The 26.1MP APS-C sensor produces stunning images, and Fujifilm’s film simulation modes (like Velvia or Acros) let you get unique looks straight out of the camera. It’s great for both photos and 4K video, with a tilting touchscreen and fast autofocus. The retro design, with physical dials, is fun to use and helps you learn manual controls. While it’s a stretch for some budgets, its versatility and style make it a long-term investment for creative types.

12. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III (~$420 used)

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III is a compact mirrorless camera that’s a steal used at around $420, often with a 14-42mm lens. Its 16.1MP Micro Four Thirds sensor delivers sharp images, and the in-body stabilization helps keep shots steady in low light or with shaky hands. The tilting touchscreen and electronic viewfinder make composing shots easy, and it shoots 4K video. The camera’s retro design is stylish, and the Micro Four Thirds lens system offers affordable lens options. A great choice for beginners who want a small, feature-packed camera at a low price.

13. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV ($700)

The upgraded Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV, priced at $700, builds on its predecessor with improved autofocus and a 20.3MP Micro Four Thirds sensor. The in-body stabilization is a lifesaver for handheld shooting, and the flip-down touchscreen is great for vlogging or selfies. It shoots 4K video and has a compact, stylish body that’s easy to carry. The electronic viewfinder and beginner-friendly modes make it approachable, while the Micro Four Thirds lens system keeps future upgrades affordable. Perfect for those who want a modern mirrorless with stabilization on a budget.

14. Panasonic Lumix G100 (~$600 used)

The Panasonic Lumix G100 is a mirrorless camera designed for vloggers but great for beginners, available used for around $600 with a kit lens. Its 20.3MP Micro Four Thirds sensor captures sharp images, and the flip-out touchscreen is ideal for framing yourself. It shoots 4K video with good stabilization, and the built-in OZO audio system delivers clear sound for vlogs. The G100’s compact size and lightweight build (412g) make it travel-friendly, and the Micro Four Thirds lens system is budget-friendly. A solid pick for beginners interested in video content creation.

15. Panasonic Lumix G7 (~$550 used)

An older but still capable mirrorless camera, the Panasonic Lumix G7 is a great used buy at around $550, often with a 14-42mm lens. The 16MP Micro Four Thirds sensor produces solid images, and it was one of the first affordable cameras to shoot 4K video. The fully articulated touchscreen is great for vlogging, and it has a microphone input for better audio. The G7’s sturdy build and electronic viewfinder make it versatile, and the Micro Four Thirds lens system offers plenty of affordable lenses. Ideal for video-focused beginners looking for a budget-friendly option.

16. Pentax K-70 (~$600 used)

The Pentax K-70 is a rugged DSLR that’s a great used buy at around $600, often with an 18-55mm lens. Its 24.2MP APS-C sensor delivers excellent image quality, and the in-body stabilization helps with low-light shooting. The K-70 is weather-sealed, making it perfect for outdoor adventures like hiking or shooting in the rain. The vari-angle screen and 11-point autofocus system are beginner-friendly, and Pentax’s K-mount lenses are widely available. While it’s not as video-focused (Full HD only), it’s a durable, affordable choice for photography enthusiasts.

17. Nikon Z30 ($607)

The Nikon Z30 is a mirrorless camera built for vloggers and beginners, priced at $607, often with a 16-50mm lens. Its 20.9MP APS-C sensor captures sharp images, and the flip-out touchscreen is perfect for framing yourself. It shoots uncropped 4K video and has reliable autofocus with eye detection. The Z30’s compact design and Nikon’s Z-mount lens system make it a great long-term investment. It lacks an electronic viewfinder, which might bother some, but its video capabilities and ease of use make it a top pick for content creators on a budget.

18. Canon EOS M200 (~$550)

The Canon EOS M200 is a super compact mirrorless camera priced at around $550, often with a 15-45mm lens. Its 24.1MP APS-C sensor delivers great image quality, and the vari-angle touchscreen is intuitive for beginners. The dual-pixel autofocus is fast and accurate, especially for stills and Full HD video (4K is cropped). The M200’s minimalist design is perfect for those who want a point-and-shoot vibe with DSLR-quality images. While Canon’s EF-M lens selection is limited, it’s a great starter camera for casual photographers who value portability.

19. Fujifilm X-M5 (~$750)

The Fujifilm X-M5 is a compact mirrorless camera priced at around $750, often with a kit lens. Its 16MP APS-C sensor produces vibrant images, and Fujifilm’s film simulation modes add a creative twist right out of the camera. The lightweight design (around 400g) and tilting touchscreen make it easy to use, and it shoots 4K video. The X-M5’s retro styling and physical controls are fun for learning manual settings, and Fujifilm’s X-mount lenses offer upgrade paths. A great choice for beginners who want a stylish, creative camera without breaking the bank.

20. Nikon D3400 (~$300 used)

Rounding out the list is the Nikon D3400, the most affordable option at around $300 used, often with an 18-55mm lens. This DSLR’s 24.2MP APS-C sensor delivers surprisingly good image quality for the price, and the guide mode is perfect for learning. It shoots Full HD video and has a long battery life (1,200 shots). The fixed screen and lack of 4K video make it less versatile, but its simplicity and rock-bottom price make it ideal for beginners on a super tight budget who want to master photography basics.

Wrapping It Up

There you have it—20 budget-friendly cameras that are perfect for beginners in 2025, with prices ranging from $300 to $899. Whether you’re leaning toward a compact mirrorless like the Canon EOS R100, a vlogging champ like the Sony ZV-E10, or a rugged DSLR like the Pentax K-70, there’s something here for every style and budget. When picking your camera, think about what you’ll shoot most—photos, videos, or both—and whether you prefer the modern vibe of mirrorless or the classic feel of a DSLR. Used options from retailers like MPB, KEH, or Adorama can save you a ton, and many of these cameras use lens systems that let you upgrade as you grow. The best camera is the one you’ll actually use, so grab one that sparks joy and start capturing the world! Happy shooting!