The 14 Best Camera for Beginners of 2023
Mike Miller Dec 2, 2023 7:46 AM
The best cameras for beginning photographers are listed below based on our evaluations of different models. If you already know whether a mirrorless or a DSLR camera is what you want, check out our rankings of the best DSLR and mirrorless cameras for beginners, respectively. Instead, look at our suggestions for the best cameras for YouTube if you're interested in entering the world of YouTube or content creation.
Overview
Spending a lot of money on a brand-new, high-end camera with all the bells and whistles when you're just getting into photography may be tempting. Therefore, the camera you have the most access to is frequently the ideal camera to start out with. Due to the fact that our top pick is also our top budget model, we've organized this piece primarily in rising price order. Our best cameras for beginners are to acquire whichever camera is within your means, work on learning the basics, and, most importantly, have fun with it. We've included some mid-range options for those ready to spend more or simply want the latest equipment.
Our experts also suggested for you the best video camera, best trail camera and best film camera to become professional photographers.
1. Canon EOS R10
Product’s Specifications
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Brand: Canon
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Model Name: Canon R10(US)18-150ISSTM
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Form Factor: Mirrorless
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Special Feature: Lightweight
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Color: Black
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Connectivity Technology: USB
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Screen Size: 3 Inches
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Photo Sensor Size: APS-C
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Item Weight: 4.86 Pounds
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Video Capture Resolution: 2160p
Product’s Highlights
The Canon EOS R10 easily outperforms modern smartphones, raising the bar for performance in entry-level cameras. With a quick Digic X processor, this mirrorless model has the most recent AF technologies.
Our tests revealed that its AF tracking is remarkably sophisticated and simple for new users. During our time with the R10, the mechanical shutter's 15fps burst speed claim was also held. These abilities make it quick enough to record ephemeral action, which can't be said for every starting camera. Additionally, the lightweight chassis is recognizable to even complete beginners, and an articulating touchscreen provides practical accessibility.
When experimenting with new approaches, the compact design makes it simple to hold and use, and the two control dials make it straightforward to adjust settings. The R10's capabilities at night are limited by the absence of in-body image stabilization, although the image quality is adequate and has sufficient shadow detail. Although the R10 is not a ground-breaking model, its specifications and control scheme place it at the top of our list for novices. To sweeten the bargain, let's hope Canon adds more native APS-C lenses.
Pros
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Both small and light
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Current autofocus technologies
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High Image Quality
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High speed shooting
Cons
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In-body image stabilization is absent.
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4K/60p footage cropped
2. Fujifilm X-T30
Product’s Specifications
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Brand: Fujifilm
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Form Factor: Mirrorless
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Special Feature: Image Stabilization
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Color: Black
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Connectivity Technology: USB
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Flash Memory Type: SDHC
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Item Weight: 6.35 Pounds
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Video Capture Resolution: 1080p
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Camera Flash: F3.5–F5.6
Product’s Highlights
When it first appeared in 2019, the Fujifilm X-T30 was positioned as a more affordable alternative to the Fujifilm X-T3 with many of the same features.
In 2022, the X-T30 II is only a slight improvement over the original, which is maybe not surprising given how excellent the first camera was. There's probably not much use in upgrading if you already have an X-T30, but if you're looking for an excellent all-arounder that won't break the bank and fits nicely into your bag for daily and trip use, it's worth considering - and the fact that it's gorgeous to look at is a pleasant plus too.
Since 2019, Fujifilm has also made some changes to its product catalog, getting rid of several of its more entry-level models. The X-T30 II is now the company's most user-friendly model. But that doesn't mean you won't receive good value for your money; in fact, it shares many characteristics with the great Fujifilm X-S10 camera.
Pros
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Fantastic Styling
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Strong Handling
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Several Ways For Simulating Movies
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Untouched 4K
Cons
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Only the screen tilts
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In-body image stabilization is absent
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Uncomfortable button placement
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A minor improvement over the past
3. Panasonic LUMIX GX85
Product’s Specifications
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Brand: Panasonic
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Model Name: Panasonic Lumix GX85
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Form Factor: Mirrorless
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Effective Still Resolution: 16 MP
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Special Feature: Image-stabilization
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Optical Zoom: 12 x
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Color: Black
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Connectivity Technology: Wi-Fi
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Screen Size: 3 Inches
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Photo Sensor Size: Micro Four Thirds
Product’s Highlights
We discovered the Panasonic LUMIX GX85 to be the ideal camera for beginners, bridging the gap between smartphone photography and the world of interchangeable lens cameras and offering a perfect balance of physical controls and touchscreen capability. The LUMIX GX85 sports a 3.5in display, which is the largest in its class, as well as a respectable viewfinder that makes it simple to capture images in direct sunlight. For selfies and vlogging, this display can be flipped out to face forward.
People switching from a smartphone will find it easier to use the touchscreen to access settings. For those comfortable using them, this camera also has three knobs and a joystick as physical controls. It has an easy-to-use layout, and helpful explanations of menu choices inside the settings are shown on the screen.
In-camera JPEG image quality is renowned for Fujifilm mirrorless cameras, which eliminates the need for post-processing. This inclusion of several acclaimed cinema simulation modes faithfully captures the look and feel of vintage movies. Social media filters, take note!
Pros
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Excellent dynamic range and color
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Sharp 3.5-inch touchscreen on the back
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Reliable performance of the autofocus
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Sleek, lightweight classic style
Cons
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Little buffer depth
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Video lacks subject tracking
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Faulty eye sensor
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Uncomfortably located joystick when using a viewfinder
4. Panasonic Lumix GH5M2
Product’s Specifications
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Brand: Panasonic Intl
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Model Name: Panasonic Lumix GH5M2 Mirrorless Camera with 12-60mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens
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Form Factor: Mirrorless
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Effective Still Resolution: 20.3 MP
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Special Feature: Image-stabilization
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Color: Black
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Connectivity Technology: USB, HDMI
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Screen Size: 3 Inches
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Photo Sensor Size: Micro Four Thirds
Product’s Highlights
The Panasonic Lumix GH5M2 was a groundbreaking camera for video creators before it was replaced by the GH5 II. Along with crucial features like in-body image stabilization and two SD card ports, it featured magnificent 4K footage quality, a large range of shooting options, and superb handling. Despite having a small Micro Four Thirds sensor, it was still a reliable stills camera with respectable all-around imaging performance.
Nothing about the GH5M2 ruins the event. It includes everything that its predecessor had that made it successful, plus a little bit more. But only slightly—with essentially the same sensor and similar selection of video resolutions, frame rates, and bitrates, there isn't a significant advancement in this area.
In general, we don't think owners of the GH5 should bother replacing it with the GH5M2; the improvements are too slight. However, for some, the addition of built-in wireless video live streaming might make it worth the purchase.
Pros
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Built-in wireless live streaming
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Great visual quality throughout
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Several minor enhancements to a fantastic camera
Cons
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A tiny sensor size
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DFD AF is not the most trustworthy
5. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
Product’s Specifications
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Brand: Olympus
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Model Name: OM-D E-M10 Mark IV Body
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Form Factor: Ultracompact
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Effective Still Resolution: 20 MP
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Special Feature: Lightweight
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Optical Zoom: 1 x
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Color: Silver
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Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, USB, HDMI
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Screen Size: 3 Inches
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Photo Sensor Size: Micro Four Thirds
Product’s Highlights
Despite its complicated moniker, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a straightforward, compact entry-level mirrorless camera. And it's a camera that has to be on your list if you're a novice or experienced photographer searching for a small body that regularly produces beautiful images.
It's true that the E-M10 Mark IV lacks some of the more sophisticated features boasted by its more expensive competitors, like phase-detection autofocus, 4K/60p video, and microphone/headphone inputs. However, it excels as a stills camera that can capture a brief moment of high-quality video when required. It is one of the best inexpensive cameras available right now and one of the best travel cameras for individuals who have already spent all of their money on flights.
Pros
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20 MP capable sensor
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Outstanding image stabilization
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Flip-down touchscreen that is useful
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Extremely little body
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Numerous reasonably priced lenses
Cons
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No input for a microphone
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Zero USB-C ports
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Max video resolution is 4K/30p
48MP Digital Camera for Beginners Photography [Autofocus & Anti-Shake] 2.7K Vlogging Camera for Video YouTube, 16X Digital Zoom 180° Flip Screen Compact Point and Shoot Camera for Travel(2 Batteries)
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Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm Lens | Built-in Wi-Fi | 24.1 MP CMOS Sensor | DIGIC 4+ Image Processor and Full HD Videos
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Canon EOS 4000D DSLR Camera w/Canon EF-S 18-55mm F/3.5-5.6 III Zoom Lens + Case + 32GB SD Card (15pc Bundle)
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Panasonic LUMIX FZ300 Long Zoom Digital Camera Features 12.1 Megapixel, 1/2.3-Inch Sensor, 4K Video, WiFi, Splash & Dustproof Camera Body, LEICA DC 24X F2.8 Zoom Lens - DMC-FZ300K - (Black) USA
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- BrandPanasonic
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Kodak PIXPRO AZ421 Digital Camera (Black) + Point & Shoot Camera Case + Transcend 32GB SD Memory Card + Extra Battery & Charger + USB Card Reader + Table Tripod + Accessories
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- BrandPHOTO4LESS
Nikon COOLPIX B500 16MP 40x Optical Zoom Digital Camera 32GB Bundle Includes Camera, Bag, 32GB Memory Card, Reader, Wallet, AA Batteries + Charger, HDMI Cable, Tripod, Beach Camera Cloth and More
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- BrandNikon
KODAK PIXPRO Astro Zoom AZ421-BK 16MP Digital Camera with 42X Optical Zoom and 3" LCD Screen (Black)
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- BrandKODAK
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Vlogging Camera, Acoletty Digital Camera for Photography, YouTube Vlog Camera 4K Ultra HD 48MP with SD Card, 16X Digital Zoom, 180 Degree 3" Flip Screen, Wide Angle Lens, Macro Lens, 2 Batteries
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48MP Digital Camera for Photography,4K Vlogging Camera,Digital Camera for Kids and Adults with 180° Flip Screen,16 X Digital Zoom,Wide-Angle Lens,Macro Lens,32 GB Micro Card,2 Batteries(Black)
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- BrandLierhyt
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Last update on 2023-12-02 / Affiliate links / Images, Product Titles, and Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API
The best cameras for beginners we suggest above are what we believe are currently the best for novices to buy based on their requirements. We take into account the cost, customer reviews, and accessibility (no cameras that are difficult to find or almost out of stock in the U.S.).
Here is a list of all the cameras we've reviewed that cost less than $1,000 if you want to make your own decision. Avoid getting sucked into the details. There isn't a single camera that is ideal. In making your choice, your preferences, shooting style, and personal tastes will be more important.