Do you dream of taking amazing, professional-looking photos, but think a great camera costs a fortune? Many people believe that high-quality photography requires spending hundreds, even thousands, of dollars. That simply isn’t true anymore! The market is flooded with incredible DSLR cameras that fit easily into a tighter budget.
Finding the perfect DSLR under $500 can feel like a treasure hunt. You worry about getting stuck with old technology or a camera that just won’t grow with you. It is tough to know which features actually matter when every brand promises the best deal. You need power and quality without emptying your wallet.
This guide cuts through the confusion. We have dug deep to find the absolute best DSLR cameras you can buy right now for less than five hundred dollars. You will learn exactly what features to look for, discover our top-rated models, and walk away confident you found a fantastic deal.
Ready to stop dreaming and start shooting stunning pictures? Let’s dive into the best budget-friendly DSLRs available today.
Top Dslr For Under 500 Recommendations
No. 1
Canon EOS 2000D / Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm + 500mm Preset Manual Focus Lens + SanDisk 32GB Card + Tripod + Case + MegaAccessory Bundle (23pc Bundle), Black /Multicolor (Renewed)
- This Platinum Mobile Camera Bundle Includes: Canon Lithium-Ion Battery Pack LP-E10 (7.4 Volts), Battery Charger LC-E10, Lens Cap, Body Cap, Strap, Deluxe Padded Camera Case, T-Mount Adapter, SanDisk 32GB Memory Card, High Speed Memory Card Reader, UV Filter, Full Size Tripod, Spider Tripod, Pistol Grip Tripod, Tulip Lens Hood, Eye Cup, Deluxe Starter Kit, 2-1 Cleaning Pen, Dust Blower, Lens Cap Keeper and MicroFiber Cleaning Cloth.
- Canon EOS 2000D / Rebel T7 DSLR Camera (International Model)- 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor, ISO 100-6400, Up to 3 fps Shooting, Built-In Wi-Fi with NFC, 9-Point AF with Center Cross-Type Point, Full HD 1080/30p Video Recording, Creative Filters, Creative Auto Modes, 3.0'' 920k-Dot LCD Monitor, DIGIC 4+ Image Processor and Scene Intelligent Auto Mode.
- Canon EF-S 18-55mm F/3.5-5.6 Zoom Lens Key Features: EF-S-Mount Lens/APS-C Format, 28.8-88mm (35mm Equivalent), Aperture Range: f/3.5 to f/38, One Aspherical Element, Super Spectra Coating , Micro Motor AF System, Rounded 6-Blade Diaphragm.
- 500mm Preset Manual Focus Lens Key Features: T-Mount Lens/Full-Frame Format, Multi-Coated Optics, Aperture Range: f/8 to f/32, Manual Focus Design. Its optical design is fully multi-coated to suppress lens flare, ghosting, and surface reflections for increased contrast and color neutrality when working in strong lighting conditions.
- Built-in Wi-Fi with NFC permits pairing the DSLR with a smartphone or tablet for wirelessly sharing photos and movies for instant online posting. Wi-Fi connectivity also enables wireless remote control over the camera from linked mobile devices using the Camera Connect app.
No. 2
Canon EOS 2000D / Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm + 500mm Preset Manual Focus Lens + SanDisk 64GB Card + Tripod + Case + MegaAccessory Bundle (23pc Bundle) (Renewed)
- This Platinum Mobile Camera Bundle Includes: Canon Lithium-Ion Battery Pack LP-E10 (7.4 Volts), Battery Charger LC-E10, Lens Cap, Body Cap, Strap, Deluxe Padded Camera Case, T-Mount Adapter, SanDisk 64GB Memory Card, High Speed Memory Card Reader, UV Filter, Full Size Tripod, Spider Tripod, Pistol Grip Tripod, Tulip Lens Hood, Eye Cup, Deluxe Starter Kit, 2-1 Cleaning Pen, Dust Blower, Lens Cap Keeper and MicroFiber Cleaning Cloth.
- Canon EOS 2000D / Rebel T7 DSLR Camera (International Model)- 24.1MP APS-C CMOS Sensor, ISO 100-6400, Up to 3 fps Shooting, Built-In Wi-Fi with NFC, 9-Point AF with Center Cross-Type Point, Full HD 1080/30p Video Recording, Creative Filters, Creative Auto Modes, 3.0 inch 920k-Dot LCD Monitor, DIGIC 4+ Image Processor and Scene Intelligent Auto Mode.
- Canon EF-S 18-55mm F/3.5-5.6 Zoom Lens Key Features: EF-S-Mount Lens/APS-C Format, 28.8-88mm (35mm Equivalent), Aperture Range: f/3.5 to f/38, One Aspherical Element, Super Spectra Coating , Micro Motor AF System, Rounded 6-Blade Diaphragm.
- 500mm Preset Manual Focus Lens Key Features: T-Mount Lens/Full-Frame Format, Multi-Coated Optics, Aperture Range: f/8 to f/32, Manual Focus Design. Its optical design is fully multi-coated to suppress lens flare, ghosting, and surface reflections for increased contrast and color neutrality when working in strong lighting conditions.
- Built-in Wi-Fi with NFC permits pairing the DSLR with a smartphone or tablet for wirelessly sharing photos and movies for instant online posting. Wi-Fi connectivity also enables wireless remote control over the camera from linked mobile devices using the Camera Connect app.
No. 3
Zonman DSLR Camera Univeral Waterproof Underwater Housing Case Pouch Bag for Canon Nikon Sony Pentax Brand Digital SLR Cameras (Transparent)
- Universal Compatibility: Designed for a wide range of DSLR, this Zonman waterproof case or bag fits most models of Canon, Nikon, Sony camera bodies. Perfect for cameras with a lens length up to 13cm or 5.12" and a diameter of 8cm or 3.15" , ensuring a secure fit for your valuable equipment.
- Easy Camera Function Access: Though fully enclosed for maximum protection, our housing case or bag features strategically placed finger holes, allowing effortless access to crucial camera functions like shutter release and zoom and focusing. Capture stunning underwater and wet-weather shots with ease.
- Ultimate Protection: Whether you're caught in rain, snow, or a sandy beach, our underwater housing case or bag shields your camera from the elements. Its complete seal locks out water, moisture, dust, mud, and sand, offering unparalleled protection in any environment.
- Dive Deep into Adventure: With an underwater depth capacity of approximately 5 meters or 16 feet, this case is ideal for a variety of water sports including diving, rafting, surfing, snorkeling, and swimming. Capture stunning underwater shots without worrying about water damage.
- Versatile Outdoor Use: Not just for water-based activities, this housing is also perfect for fishing, boating, and other outdoor pursuits where your camera might be exposed to harsh conditions. Enjoy peace of mind knowing your gear is safe from the elements.
No. 4
Lowepro LP37131, Flipside 500 AW II Camera Backpack, Fits Mirrorless, Compact Drone, DSLR with Lens, Extra Lenses, Black
- LARGE CAPABILITY: Fits Pro DSLR camera with 400mm lens or 500mm detached lens, plus 1-2 extra camera bodies, 4-6 extra lenses, flash. Also the Hideaway Tripod Mount secures a compact tripod to the pack
- EASY ACCESS: Signature flipside design provides increased security through body-side points of entry and full access to gear without setting the bag down
- WEATHERPROOF: Full structure and padding with all weather AW cover provide protection from the elements
- EXTRA SPACE: Comfortably fits any size laptop or tablet into the CradleFit pocket
- CUSTOMIZE IT: By adjusting the removable, padded accessory pouch
No. 5
Canon EOS 4000D / Rebel T100 DSLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm + 500mm Preset Manual Focus Lens + SanDisk 64GB Card + Tripod + Case + MegaAccessory Bundle (23pc Bundles) 500MM Preset Lens (Renewed)
- This Platinum Mobile Camera Bundle Includes: Canon Lithium-Ion Battery Pack LP-E10 (7.4 Volts), Battery Charger LC-E10, Lens Cap, Body Cap, Strap, Deluxe Padded Camera Case, T-Mount Adapter, SanDisk 64GB Memory Card, High Speed Memory Card Reader, UV Filter, Full Size Tripod, Spider Tripod, Pistol Grip Tripod, Tulip Lens Hood, Eye Cup, Deluxe Starter Kit, 2-1 Cleaning Pen, Dust Blower, Lens Cap Keeper and MicroFiber Cleaning Cloth.
- Canon EOS 4000D / Rebel T100 DSLR Camera (International Model)- 18.0MP APS-C CMOS Sensor, Up to 3 fps Shooting, ISO 12800, Built-In Wi-Fi, 9 Point Auto Focus, Full HD 1080p Video Recording at 29.97fps, Dual, 6.8 cm (2.7'') TFT LCD, approx. 230 K dots, DIGIC 4+ Image Processor and Scene Intelligent Auto.
- Canon EF-S 18-55mm F/3.5-5.6 Zoom Lens - EF-S-Mount Lens/APS-C Format, 28.8-88mm (35mm Equivalent), Aperture Range: f/3.5 to f/38, One Aspherical Element, Super Spectra Coating , Micro Motor AF System, Rounded 6-Blade Diaphragm.
- 500mm Preset Manual Focus Lens Key Features: T-Mount Lens/Full-Frame Format, Multi-Coated Optics, Aperture Range: f/8 to f/32, Manual Focus Design. Its optical design is fully multi-coated to suppress lens flare, ghosting, and surface reflections for increased contrast and color neutrality when working in strong lighting conditions.
- Creating distinctive stories with digital camera quality photos and Full HD movies is easier than you think with the 18 Megapixel EOS 4000D. Share instantly and shoot remotely via your compatible smartphone with Wi-Fi and the Canon Camera Connect app.
No. 6
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR Camera with 50mm + 75-300mm Lenses + 500mm F/8 Preset Telephoto Lens + TTL Spped Light Flash + 128GB Memory, Filters, Case, Tripod + More (Pro Photo Bundle) (Renewed)
- This Al’s Variety Camera Bundle Includes Sandisk 128GB Extreme Speed Memory Card , Filter Kit , TTL Speed Light, Spare Battery, Spare Charger, Lens Cap , Body Cap ,Neck Strap , AL’s Variety Lens Cleaning Cloth ,Camera Gadget Bag, Tripod , HDMI Cable + 1 Year Seller Supplied Warranty , And Includes :
- Canon EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR Camera (Import Model)- 30.4MP Full-Frame CMOS Sensor, DIGIC 6+ Image Processor, 3.2" 1.62m-Dot Touchscreen LCD Monitor, DCI 4K Video at 30 fps; 8.8MP Still Grab, High Density Reticular AF, Dual Pixel CMOS AF Systems, 3.2" 1.62m-dot Clear View II LCD, dedicated AF mode selection button, Mirror Vibration Control System , ISO 50-102400
- EF 50mm f/1.8 STM Lens (Import Model) with Aperture Range: f/1.8 to f/22, Optimized Lens Coatings, STM AF Motor Supports Movie Servo AF, Manual Focus Override, Rounded 7-Blade Diaphragm, Minimum Focus Distance: 14" + Canon EF 75-300mm f/4-5.6 III Lens - EF-Mount Lens/Full-Frame Format,Aperture Range: f/4 to f/45,Super Spectra Coating,DC Micro Motor AF System,7-Blade Diaphragm
- 500mm F/8 Preset Telephoto Lens-Aperture Range: F/8, 11, 16, 22, 32, 4 Elements in 4 Groups, Filter Size: 67mm, Minimum Focusing Distance: 33 ft, provides crisp, high contrast, virtually flare free images of distant subjects, even under adverse lighting conditions. The Manual aperture settings from f/8 - f/32 retains a full range of exposure, depth of field settings
- SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO UHS-I SDXC Memory Card -128GB Storage Capacity, UHS-I / V30 / U3 / Class 10, Max Read Speed: 200 MB/s, Max Write Speed: 90 MB/s, Record 4K UHD Video, compatible with the UHS-I bus, and features a speed class rating of V30, which guarantees minimum write speeds of 30 MB/s, Once the shots are taken, your work is only half done. Accelerating your workflow mean
No. 7
Canon EOS 4000D / Rebel T100 DSLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm + 500mm Preset Manual Focus Lens + SanDisk 32GB Card + Tripod + Case + MegaAccessory Bundle (23pc Bundles) (Renewed)
- This Platinum Mobile Camera Bundle Includes: Canon Lithium-Ion Battery Pack LP-E10 (7.4 Volts), Battery Charger LC-E10, Lens Cap, Body Cap, Strap, Deluxe Padded Camera Case, T-Mount Adapter, SanDisk 32GB Memory Card, High Speed Memory Card Reader, UV Filter, Full Size Tripod, Spider Tripod, Pistol Grip Tripod, Tulip Lens Hood, Eye Cup, Deluxe Starter Kit, 2-1 Cleaning Pen, Dust Blower, Lens Cap Keeper and MicroFiber Cleaning Cloth.
- Canon EOS 4000D / Rebel T100 DSLR Camera (International Model)- 18.0MP APS-C CMOS Sensor, Up to 3 fps Shooting, ISO 12800, Built-In Wi-Fi, 9 Point Auto Focus, Full HD 1080p Video Recording at 29.97fps, Dual, 6.8 cm (2.7 inch ) TFT LCD, approx. 230 K dots, DIGIC 4+ Image Processor and Scene Intelligent Auto.
- Canon EF-S 18-55mm F/3.5-5.6 Zoom Lens - EF-S-Mount Lens/APS-C Format, 28.8-88mm (35mm Equivalent), Aperture Range: f/3.5 to f/38, One Aspherical Element, Super Spectra Coating , Micro Motor AF System, Rounded 6-Blade Diaphragm.
- 500mm Preset Manual Focus Lens Key Features: T-Mount Lens/Full-Frame Format, Multi-Coated Optics, Aperture Range: f/8 to f/32, Manual Focus Design. Its optical design is fully multi-coated to suppress lens flare, ghosting, and surface reflections for increased contrast and color neutrality when working in strong lighting conditions.
- Creating distinctive stories with digital camera quality photos and Full HD movies is easier than you think with the 18 Megapixel EOS 4000D. Share instantly and shoot remotely via your compatible smartphone with Wi-Fi and the Canon Camera Connect app.
The Ultimate Buying Guide: Snagging a DSLR Under $500
Buying your first DSLR camera doesn’t have to empty your wallet. Finding a great camera under $500 is totally possible! This guide helps you find the best deal on a quality camera for learning photography.
Key Features to Look For
When you look at cameras in this price range, focus on these important parts:
- Sensor Size: Look for an APS-C sensor. This is the standard for beginner DSLRs. Bigger sensors capture better light and give you clearer pictures, especially in darker spots.
- Megapixels (MP): Aim for at least 18 MP. More megapixels let you print bigger photos or crop pictures without losing too much detail.
- Autofocus Points: More autofocus points mean the camera focuses faster and more accurately. Nine or more points is a good starting place.
- Video Capability: Most modern DSLRs shoot 1080p (Full HD) video. Check if it can shoot at 30 frames per second (fps) for smooth video.
Important Materials and Build Quality
DSLRs in this budget usually use strong plastic bodies. This keeps the camera light, which is great for carrying around all day.
- Body Material: Most use polycarbonate (strong plastic). This is fine for everyday use. Don’t expect heavy metal construction at this price.
- Lens Mount: Make sure the lens mount (where the lens connects) is metal. Metal mounts last longer when you switch lenses frequently.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
What makes a picture look great or just okay?
Factors That Improve Quality:
- ISO Range: A higher maximum ISO (like 6400 or higher) helps you take clearer photos indoors or at night.
- Image Processor: Newer processors handle colors better and reduce digital noise (graininess).
Factors That Reduce Quality:
- Kit Lens Limitations: Most cameras under $500 come with an 18-55mm “kit lens.” These are okay to start, but they often struggle in low light. You will need to upgrade the lens later for the best results.
- Screen Type: A fixed, non-touch screen reduces flexibility when shooting from awkward angles.
User Experience and Use Cases
A sub-$500 DSLR is perfect for learning photography basics.
Who Should Buy This?
- Beginners: You learn manual controls (Aperture, Shutter Speed, ISO). The controls feel solid and familiar.
- Travelers: These cameras are usually light enough not to weigh you down on trips.
- Hobbyists: If you shoot family events, landscapes, or simple portraits, these cameras handle the job well.
These cameras often have great battery life, letting you shoot all day long. However, they might feel slow when taking many pictures quickly (low burst rate).
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About DSLRs Under $500
Q: Should I buy a new or used DSLR under $500?
A: You can often find slightly older, but excellent, used models (like a Canon Rebel T7i or Nikon D3500) that offer better features than brand new budget models.
Q: Is a mirrorless camera better than a DSLR at this price?
A: At the sub-$500 price point, DSLRs usually offer better value and a wider selection of cheap, used lenses. Mirrorless cameras in this range often have smaller sensors.
Q: What is the biggest downside of a $500 DSLR?
A: The biggest downside is usually the lens quality. The included kit lens limits your low-light performance.
Q: Do I need a camera with 4K video?
A: Most DSLRs under $500 only offer 1080p video. For learning photography, 1080p is perfectly fine.
Q: How important is the viewfinder?
A: The optical viewfinder (OVF) in a DSLR is great because it uses no battery power and shows you exactly what the lens sees.
Q: Can I use old lenses on these new budget DSLRs?
A: Yes! Many brands let you adapt older, manual-focus lenses, which can give you amazing quality shots cheaply.
Q: What should I check when buying used?
A: Always check the shutter count. Lower counts mean the camera has taken fewer pictures and will last longer.
Q: Are the screens good enough for reviewing photos?
A: Most screens are bright enough for basic review, but they might not be touch-enabled or have very high resolution.
Q: Does the camera come with a memory card?
A: Usually no. You must buy an SD card separately. Look for a fast “Class 10” card.
Q: Is it better to buy a camera body only or a kit?
A: For beginners, buying the kit (with the 18-55mm lens) is almost always better. You get a functional lens right away.