The Best DSLR Cameras

The advent of the DSLR camera has changed photography from an art form accessible only to a few to something that everyone can enjoy and participate in. These cameras make access to high-quality photographs and instant photo sharing possible for everyone, not just experts in the red rooms of film houses. It seems every camera company has one or more kinds of DSLR cameras on their shelves, so it can be hard to decide which is the right one for you. To help aid you in your search, we’ve zoomed in on the camera market and taken this snapshot of the best DSLR cameras money can buy.

What to Look For

We take our DSLRs seriously, so we scoured the marketplace for the latest and greatest options. We looked for cameras with versatile sensors that could capture both high-quality video and brilliant photos. We also considered the quality of the accessories, such as any included lenses and batteries. Also, the value for the price is an essential factor since DSLRs can get pretty pricey. Our favorite is Canon’s EOS Rebel T7 since it can capture professional-looking photos for an accessible price point. We also love pairing it with Canon lenses, and you can score an awesome bundle to start your collection. But for the pros, we recommend going with Nikon’s D850. The crystal-clear 4K video and amazing specs prove the premium price is worth every penny. For more of our in-depth reviews, read on.

Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm Lens

Versatility at its best

This is the perfect pick for both amateurs and pros looking to step their game up with a quality camera.
Best Overall

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Canon’s Rebel series has been a go-to choice for DSLR enthusiasts for a while now because of its affordability and reliable performance. This Rebel T7 has a lauded autofocus feature that makes focusing easy for beginners. The camera has compatibility with all Canon EF lenses, which gives you a wide array of lenses to choose from. Canon’s EF lens line has an option for every kind of shot you could want, so there’s something for every breed of photographer. You can also purchase an adapter to expand your horizons even further. This particular option includes an excellent 18-55mm lens that can capture amazingly high-resolution photos via the 24.1MP sensor.

Pros:

  • It’s an excellent value for the price.
  • The interface is user-friendly and easy to learn, making this a great choice for amateurs.
  • The 9-point autofocus technology is accurate and seamless, especially when quickly focusing on faces.
  • It’s easy to upload your photos to the cloud or your computer, thanks to the camera’s WiFi compatibility and Canon’s photo app.

Cons:

  • The max video resolution is 1080p, so it may not be the first choice for professional videographers.

Canon EOS 4000D With 18-55mm Canon Lens Bundle

Start strong

This camera bundle pack has everything you’d need to begin your journey with digital photography.
Best Bundle

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With the EOS 4000D, Canon has secured itself as the king of DSLR. The EOS 4000D separates itself from the pack by including a very impressive accessory kit with your purchase. Extensive and high-quality, the kit comes with an SD card, card reader, battery, hardy camera bag, tripod, cleaning cloth, UV filter, and more. It’s not the fanciest or most expensive camera money can buy, but with an 18MP photo resolution and FHD recording, it can certainly deliver the goods.

Pros:

  • With the UV filter and tripod, this kit offers plenty of opportunities to experiment and learn.
  • The price is extremely affordable, making this our top recommendation for those shopping on a budget.
  • Although it’s not up to professional standards, the EOS 4000D still boasts advanced features and high performance.

Cons:

  • The included SD card is only 32GB, so you’ll likely have to invest in something with more memory for long shooting sessions.

Nikon D850 FX-format Camera with NIKKOR 105mm Lens

Quality doesn't come cheap

With a gorgeous full-frame sensor and a variety of available high-end lenses, this professional camera can serve both videographers and photographers well.
Best Professional

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The Nikon D850 is undeniably a premium device with the price to match. But even though it costs a pretty penny, it’s worth the investment for professionals. With a full-frame sensor, a 45.7MP max resolution, 4K video capabilities, and a line of high-end lenses, the D850 is more than ready for professional gigs. We also love the form factor, which packs all this advanced technology into a compact and hardy build. If you have the funds to swing it, this professional camera is the perfect companion for filming weddings, photographing wildlife, capturing events, and much more.

Pros:

  • Even though this is an advanced model, it’s still considerably user-friendly.
  • It can shoot in 4K at 24fps, so it’s an excellent option for professional videographers.
  • The 3-inch touchscreen is bright and highly visible even in sunny outdoor settings.
  • The compact build size and hardy chassis make this a durable and travel-ready camera.

Cons:

  • It’s super expensive, so beginners will probably do better with a cheaper option.

Nikon D7500 20.9MP DSLR Camera

The resolution you deserve

Videographers looking for uncompromising image quality will love this powerful package.
Best For Video

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If you’re a photographer with uncompromising standards, check out the Nikon D7500. It’s a significant upgrade from its predecessors, with a max video resolution of 4K and advanced autofocus technology. It also excels at still photography, especially when paired with one of the lens bundles. One option offers a focal length range of 18-140mm, while another compatible Nikon lens can deliver zooming between 18-300mm. Thus, these bundles can basically cover the full practical range of most photography demands, and it does so with the quality that we’ve come to expect from Nikon.

Pros:

  • The battery life is excellent, even when shooting burst photos.
  • It has exceptional autofocusing, which can hone in on moving objects in a fraction of a second.
  • This model is relatively lightweight, making it perfect for handheld shots.

Cons:

  • The APS-C sensor is large but can’t deliver the same color depth and clarity in low-light situations as full-frame cameras.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are lenses interchangeable on DSLR cameras?

DSLR cameras are known for having some level of interchangeability between lenses and brands, but this is not a universal rule. To ensure that you’re buying cameras and lenses that will work together, make sure to do your research before buying. Try searching for the mount type of your particular camera and make sure that the lenses you buy are of the same type.

What is the difference between DSLR and SLR cameras?

DSLR stands for “Digital Single Lens Reflex,” and SLR stands for “Single Lens Reflex.” Some DSLR cameras are described as “digital SLRs” without further abbreviation. Purely SLR cameras are film-based, and you cannot view their photos until they’re developed in a studio. DSLR cameras, however, are digital, and their photos can be viewed or printed at any time. DSLR has become somewhat of a colloquial stand-in for “digital cameras” at this point, even though there are many digital cameras that are not DSLRs.

About the Author

Before becoming a writer, Evan worked as a senior data analyst in advertising and consumer retail. His goal is to help tech experts and amateurs alike make informed decisions about a wide range of electronics. Evan's hobbies include gaming, building computers, coding, and enjoying the great outdoors.

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