John Holguin
As a photography enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for the best gear that offers great performance without breaking the bank. When it comes to DSLR cameras, size and affordability are key factors for me. That’s why I’ve compiled a list of the best small and inexpensive DSLR cameras that deliver exceptional image quality and versatility without costing a fortune.
These compact DSLRs pack a punch with their advanced features, user-friendly interfaces, and compact designs, making them perfect for beginners and seasoned photographers alike. Whether you’re looking to upgrade from a point-and-shoot camera or want a lightweight option for travel photography, these budget-friendly DSLRs have got you covered.
From Canon to Nikon to Sony, there are plenty of options available in the market, but finding the right balance between quality and affordability can be a challenge. That’s why I’ve tested and researched several small and inexpensive DSLR cameras to bring you my top recommendations. So, if you’re in the market for a compact DSLR that won’t break the bank, keep reading to discover the best options available!
Best Small Inexpensive DSLR Cameras
When it comes to finding a compact DSLR camera without breaking the bank, there are several great options available. As a photography enthusiast, I have researched and tested various models to find the best small and affordable DSLR cameras on the market.
One standout choice is the Canon EOS Rebel T7. This compact DSLR camera offers excellent image quality and user-friendly features at a budget-friendly price. With a 24.1-megapixel sensor and Full HD video recording capabilities, the EOS Rebel T7 is a versatile and compact option for capturing stunning photos and videos.
- Nikon D3500: Another top pick is the Nikon D3500. This small DSLR camera boasts a 24.2-megapixel sensor, 5fps continuous shooting, and a user-friendly interface, making it ideal for beginners and enthusiasts alike.
- Sony Alpha a6000: For those looking for a mirrorless option, the Sony Alpha a6000 is a compact and affordable choice. With a 24.3-megapixel sensor, fast autofocus system, and compact size, the Alpha a6000 is a great option for capturing high-quality images on the go.
Exploring the Canon EOS Rebel SL3
When it comes to compact and affordable DSLR cameras, the Canon EOS Rebel SL3 stands out as a versatile option. This camera is packed with features that cater to both beginners and enthusiasts alike, making it a popular choice among photographers looking for a reliable and budget-friendly option.
One of the key highlights of the Canon EOS Rebel SL3 is its 24.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, which delivers high-quality images with excellent clarity and detail. This sensor, combined with the DIGIC 8 image processor, ensures that you can capture stunning photos in various lighting conditions, from bright outdoor scenes to dimly lit interiors.
- Compact and Lightweight: Despite its powerful features, the Canon EOS Rebel SL3 is remarkably compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around for all-day shooting sessions.
- 4K Video Recording: The camera also offers 4K video recording capabilities, allowing you to capture smooth and detailed videos with ease.
- Fast and Accurate Autofocus: With Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology, the Canon EOS Rebel SL3 provides fast and accurate autofocus performance, ensuring that your subjects are always in sharp focus.
Exploring the Nikon D3500
As an amateur photographer looking for a budget-friendly DSLR camera, I stumbled upon the Nikon D3500. This compact and lightweight camera has been a game-changer for me, offering impressive image quality and easy handling.
One of the standout features of the Nikon D3500 is its 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor, which delivers sharp and vibrant images. The camera’s EXPEED 4 image processor ensures fast performance and excellent low-light capabilities, making it suitable for a wide range of shooting situations.
- Compact and Lightweight: The Nikon D3500 is perfect for taking on the go, whether you’re capturing landscapes or portraits.
- User-Friendly: With its intuitive controls and helpful Guide Mode, the D3500 is great for beginners looking to improve their photography skills.
- Full HD Video: The camera also excels in video recording, allowing you to capture high-quality Full HD footage with ease.
My Experience with Canon EOS Rebel T7
As an avid photographer, I recently had the opportunity to try out the Canon EOS Rebel T7, and I must say, I was impressed by its performance and quality. The camera is compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around for extended periods without feeling fatigued.
One of the standout features of the Canon EOS Rebel T7 is its high-resolution 24.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, which delivers stunning image quality with vibrant colors and sharp details. The camera also has an impressive ISO range, allowing me to capture clear and noise-free images even in low-light conditions.
- The Canon EOS Rebel T7 boasts a fast and accurate autofocus system, making it easy to capture sharp and well-focused shots.
- Its 3-inch LCD screen is bright and clear, making it convenient to compose and review images on the go.
- The camera offers a variety of shooting modes and creative filters, allowing for endless creative possibilities.
My Experience with the Nikon D5600
As an avid photographer, I recently had the opportunity to try out the Nikon D5600, a compact and affordable DSLR camera that has quickly become one of my favorites. The camera features a 24.2-megapixel sensor, which produces stunningly crisp and detailed images that rival those of more expensive models. The D5600 is also equipped with a vari-angle touchscreen, making it easy to navigate menus and adjust settings on the fly.
One of the standout features of the Nikon D5600 is its impressive battery life, allowing me to shoot for hours on end without needing to recharge. The camera’s built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities make it easy to transfer photos to my phone or tablet for quick editing and sharing. Additionally, the D5600’s lightweight and compact design make it the perfect companion for on-the-go photography, whether I’m traveling or exploring my own backyard.
- The Nikon D5600’s 39-point autofocus system ensures that every shot is sharp and in focus, even in challenging lighting conditions.
- The camera’s continuous shooting mode allows me to capture fast-moving subjects with ease, making it ideal for sports and wildlife photography.
- With a range of creative shooting modes and filters, the D5600 offers endless possibilities for experimenting with different styles and effects.
My Experience with the Canon EOS Rebel T6
Having recently purchased the Canon EOS Rebel T6, I have been thoroughly impressed with its performance and features. This compact DSLR camera offers exceptional image quality and versatility at an affordable price point, making it a perfect choice for both beginners and experienced photographers.
One of the standout features of the Canon EOS Rebel T6 is its 18.0 megapixel CMOS sensor, which delivers stunning, high-resolution images with vibrant colours and sharp details. The camera’s DIGIC 4+ image processor ensures fast performance and excellent low-light capabilities, allowing me to capture clear and crisp photos even in challenging lighting conditions.
- The Rebel T6’s 9-point autofocus system is quick and accurate, making it easy to capture sharp, well-focused images of moving subjects.
- I particularly appreciate the camera’s built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, which allow me to quickly and easily share my photos with friends and family or transfer them to my smartphone for editing and sharing on social media.
- The camera’s 3.0-inch LCD screen is bright and clear, making it easy to compose shots and review images on the go.
My Experience with the Nikon D3400
Having used the Nikon D3400 for a while now, I can confidently say that it has exceeded my expectations. This compact DSLR camera is perfect for beginners looking to step up their photography game without breaking the bank.
One of the standout features of the Nikon D3400 is its impressive image quality. The 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor delivers sharp and vibrant photos, even in low light conditions. The camera’s EXPEED 4 image processor ensures fast and accurate processing, resulting in stunning images every time.
- The compact size and lightweight design of the Nikon D3400 make it easy to carry around, perfect for capturing those spontaneous moments on the go.
- The camera’s Guide Mode is a great tool for beginners, providing step-by-step assistance and helpful tips to improve photography skills.
- With built-in Bluetooth connectivity, transferring photos to your smartphone or tablet is quick and hassle-free, allowing for easy sharing on social media.
Canon EOS Rebel SL2
As an avid photographer, I have had the pleasure of using the Canon EOS Rebel SL2, and I must say, it has exceeded my expectations in terms of performance and affordability.
One standout feature of the Canon EOS Rebel SL2 is its compact and lightweight design, making it ideal for on-the-go shooting without compromising on image quality.
- The 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor delivers stunning images with vivid colours and sharp details, perfect for capturing memorable moments.
- The Dual Pixel CMOS AF system ensures fast and accurate autofocus, allowing me to capture sharp and in-focus shots even in challenging lighting conditions.
- With built-in Wi-Fi, NFC, and Bluetooth connectivity, transferring photos to my phone or computer is seamless, making sharing my work with others a breeze.
Nikon D3300: My Affordable DSLR Choice
When I was looking for a compact and budget-friendly DSLR camera, the Nikon D3300 caught my eye. This camera is packed with features that make it an excellent choice for beginners and enthusiasts alike.
One standout feature of the Nikon D3300 is its impressive image quality. With a 24.2-megapixel sensor and the ability to shoot in RAW format, this camera delivers crisp and detailed photos that rival more expensive models.
- Compact and Lightweight: The Nikon D3300 is easy to carry around, making it perfect for travel and outdoor photography.
- Full HD Video: Capture stunning videos with the D3300’s 1080p video recording capability.
- User-Friendly Interface: The camera’s intuitive controls and helpful guide mode make it easy to learn and use, even for beginners.
Conclusion
The Canon EOS Rebel T5 is a great option for those looking for a small and inexpensive DSLR camera. It offers a good balance of features and image quality, making it a versatile choice for beginners and enthusiasts alike.
While it may not have all the bells and whistles of more expensive models, the Rebel T5 still delivers impressive performance in a compact package. Its user-friendly interface and intuitive controls make it easy to use, even for those new to photography.
- Pros:
- Compact and lightweight design
- Good image quality
- Easy to use interface
- Cons:
- Limited video recording capabilities
- No Wi-Fi connectivity
Best small inexpensive dslr cameras

| Price history for Canon Rebel XTi DSLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens (OLD MODEL) (Renewed) | |
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| Price history for Canon Rebel XTi DSLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens (OLD MODEL) | |
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Canon EOS REBEL T7 DSLR Camera|2 Lens Kit with EF18-55mm + EF 75-300mm Lens, Black
Features
| Part Number | 2727C021 |
| Model | 2727C021 |
| Warranty | 1 yea manufacturer |
| Color | Black |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Release Date | 2019-03-06T00:00:01Z |


Canon EOS R100 Mirrorless Camera RF-S18-45mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens Kit, 24.1 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor, 4K Video, RF Mount, Black
Features
| Part Number | 6052C012 |
| Model | 6052C012 |
| Warranty | 1 year manufacturer |
| Color | Black |
| Release Date | 2023-06-27T00:00:01Z |
| Language | English |

| Price history for Canon EOS R100 Mirrorless Camera RF-S18-45mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens Kit, 24.1 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor, 4K Video, RF Mount, Black | |
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Canon EOS Rebel T100 DSLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 III Lens, 18MP APS-C CMOS Sensor, Built-in Wi-Fi, Optical Viewfinder, Impressive Images & Full...
Features
| Part Number | 2628C029 |
| Model | 2628C029 |
| Warranty | 1 |
| Color | Black |
| Release Date | 2023-08-31T00:00:01Z |

| Price history for Canon EOS Rebel T100 DSLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 III Lens, 18MP APS-C CMOS Sensor, Built-in Wi-Fi, Optical Viewfinder, Impressive Images & Full HD Videos, includes 32GB SD Card | |
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Canon EOS R50 Mirrorless Camera RF-S18-45mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens Kit, 24.2 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) Sensor, 4K Video, Hybrid Camera, Photo and Video, Vlogging,...
Features
| Part Number | 5812C012 |
| Model | 5812C012 |
| Warranty | 1 year manufacturer |
| Color | White |
| Release Date | 2023-03-16T00:00:01Z |

| Price history for Canon EOS R50 Mirrorless Camera RF-S18-45mm F4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens Kit, 24.2 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) Sensor, 4K Video, Hybrid Camera, Photo and Video, Vlogging, Content Creator, RF Mount, White | |
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Canon EOS Rebel SL3 Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm Lens Kit, Built-in Wi-Fi, Dual Pixel CMOS AF and 3.0 inch Vari-Angle Touch Screen, White
Features
| Part Number | 3457C001 |
| Model | 3457C001 |
| Warranty | 1 year manufacturer |
| Color | White |
| Release Date | 2019-04-28T00:00:01Z |



| Price history for Canon EOS Rebel T100 / 4000D DSLR Camera (w/ 18-55 III) (Renewed) | |
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CADeN Camera Bag Sling Backpack Camera Case Waterproof with Rain Cover Tripod Holder, Compatible for DSLR/SLR Mirrorless Cameras (Canon Nikon Sony Pentax)...
Features
| Part Number | CNK1-AG |
| Model | CN0037K1-AG-FBA |
| Color | Green |
| Size | Small |

| Price history for CADeN Camera Bag Sling Backpack Camera Case Waterproof with Rain Cover Tripod Holder, Compatible for DSLR/SLR Mirrorless Cameras (Canon Nikon Sony Pentax) and Accessories Green | |
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Canon EOS Rebel T100 / 4000D DSLR Camera (w/ 18-55 III)
Features
| Part Number | 2628C003AA |
| Model | 4000d |
| Color | Black |
| Size | w/ 18-55 III |


Q&A:
What are the best small inexpensive DSLR cameras?
Some of the best small inexpensive DSLR cameras include the Canon EOS Rebel T7, Nikon D3500, and Canon EOS Rebel SL3. These cameras offer good image quality, ease of use, and are budget-friendly options for beginners or amateur photographers.
Are there any compact DSLR cameras that are affordable?
Yes, there are several compact DSLR cameras that are affordable, such as the Canon EOS Rebel T100 and the Nikon D5600. These cameras are lightweight, easy to carry around, and offer good performance without breaking the bank.
