As a photography enthusiast on a budget, finding a high-quality mirrorless camera that won’t break the bank can be a challenge. However, with the rise of the used camera market, there are plenty of options available that offer excellent performance at an affordable price. In this article, I will highlight some of the best used mirrorless cameras that you can get for under $500.
Whether you’re a beginner looking to upgrade from a smartphone or a seasoned photographer in need of a reliable backup camera, these budget-friendly options will not disappoint. From compact and lightweight models to more advanced cameras with interchangeable lenses, there is a used mirrorless camera out there to suit your needs and preferences.
By investing in a used mirrorless camera, you can save money without compromising on image quality or features. With the right choice, you can capture stunning photos and videos without breaking the bank. Let’s explore some of the top contenders in the market and find the perfect camera for your creative pursuits.
Best Budget Mirrorless Camera Under $500
When it comes to finding a quality mirrorless camera without breaking the bank, there are many great options available on the used market. One of the best choices for photographers looking for a reliable camera under $500 is the Fujifilm X-T20.
The Fujifilm X-T20 offers a perfect blend of affordability and performance, making it a popular choice among photography enthusiasts. With its 24.3MP sensor, fast autofocus system, and 4K video recording capabilities, this camera delivers excellent image quality and versatility for a fraction of the price of newer models.
- Sony Alpha a6000: Another excellent option in this price range is the Sony Alpha a6000. Known for its compact size, fast autofocus, and high-quality images, the a6000 is a great choice for photographers looking for a reliable mirrorless camera under $500.
- Panasonic Lumix GX85: The Panasonic Lumix GX85 is also worth considering for its 16MP sensor, 4K video recording, and in-body image stabilization. This camera offers a great balance of features and affordability for budget-conscious photographers.
Sony Alpha a6000: My Experience with a Budget-Friendly Mirrorless Camera
When I was searching for a reliable mirrorless camera under $500, the Sony Alpha a6000 caught my attention. This compact and lightweight camera offers impressive features that rival more expensive models.
One of the standout features of the Sony Alpha a6000 is its fast autofocus system, which allows me to capture sharp and clear images with ease. The 24.3-megapixel APS-C sensor delivers excellent image quality, making it perfect for both photography and videography.
- The compact design makes it easy to carry around for on-the-go shooting.
- The electronic viewfinder provides a clear and accurate preview of shots.
- The built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity make it easy to share photos and videos instantly.
Overall, the Sony Alpha a6000 has exceeded my expectations as a budget-friendly mirrorless camera. It’s a great option for beginners and enthusiasts looking to step up their photography game without breaking the bank.
My Experience with the Fujifilm X-T10
Having used the Fujifilm X-T10 for a while now, I can confidently say that it’s a fantastic mirrorless camera that delivers exceptional image quality and performance. The X-T10’s compact size and lightweight design make it a great option for photographers who are always on the go.
One of the standout features of the Fujifilm X-T10 is its impressive 16.3-megapixel APS-C X-Trans CMOS II sensor, which produces sharp, detailed images with vibrant colours. The camera also boasts a fast autofocus system that ensures you never miss a shot, even in challenging lighting conditions.
- The X-T10 offers a range of manual controls, allowing you to fine-tune your settings and unleash your creativity.
- Its retro design is not only stylish but also functional, with intuitive dials and buttons that make adjusting settings a breeze.
- With built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, you can easily transfer your photos to your smartphone or tablet for quick sharing on social media.
Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7: A Compact and Versatile Mirrorless Camera
When it comes to finding a reliable mirrorless camera under 500, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7 is a standout choice. This compact and versatile camera offers a range of features that make it a great option for both beginners and more experienced photographers.
With a 16-megapixel sensor, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7 delivers sharp and detailed images with vibrant colours. Its 4K video recording capabilities allow you to capture stunning videos with incredible clarity and detail. The camera also features a 3-inch touchscreen LCD display that makes it easy to navigate menus and adjust settings.
- The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7 offers a range of shooting modes, including manual, aperture priority, and shutter priority, giving you the flexibility to experiment with different settings and techniques.
- Its built-in Wi-Fi connectivity allows you to easily transfer images to your smartphone or tablet for quick sharing on social media.
- Overall, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G7 is a solid choice for anyone looking for a compact and versatile mirrorless camera that delivers excellent image quality and performance.
My Experience with the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II
When I was looking for a reliable mirrorless camera under 500, I came across the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II. I was immediately impressed by its compact size and powerful features. The camera’s lightweight design made it easy to carry around, making it perfect for on-the-go photography.
One of the standout features of the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II is its impressive image stabilization technology. This feature allowed me to capture sharp, clear images even in low light conditions. The camera’s fast autofocus system also ensured that I never missed a shot, making it ideal for capturing fast-moving subjects.
- The camera’s 16-megapixel sensor delivered high-quality images with vibrant colours and fine details.
- The tilting touchscreen made it easy to compose shots from different angles.
- The built-in Wi-Fi connectivity allowed me to quickly share my photos with friends and family.
My Experience with the Canon EOS M3
When it comes to budget-friendly mirrorless cameras, the Canon EOS M3 is a solid choice that I have personally used and enjoyed. The compact design and versatility of this camera make it a great option for both beginners and more experienced photographers looking for a reliable tool.
One standout feature of the Canon EOS M3 is its 24.2-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, which delivers high-quality images with sharp details and vibrant colours. The camera’s DIGIC 6 image processor ensures fast and accurate performance, allowing you to capture moments with ease.
- The Canon EOS M3’s tilting touchscreen makes it convenient to frame shots from various angles, while the built-in Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity enable seamless sharing of photos and videos.
- I particularly appreciate the camera’s compatibility with a wide range of EF-M lenses, giving me the flexibility to experiment with different focal lengths and styles.
- Overall, the Canon EOS M3 is a reliable and compact mirrorless camera that offers impressive image quality and features at an affordable price point.
Conclusion
The Nikon 1 J5 is a solid mirrorless camera option for those looking to step up their photography game without breaking the bank. With its compact size, fast autofocus, and impressive image quality, it’s a great choice for beginners and enthusiasts alike.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight design
- Fast autofocus system
- Excellent image quality
- 4K video recording capabilities
Cons
- Smaller sensor size compared to some competitors
- Limited lens selection for the Nikon 1 system
- No built-in viewfinder
In conclusion, the Nikon 1 J5 offers a good balance of performance and affordability, making it one of the best used mirrorless cameras you can find for under $500. Whether you’re a casual shooter or a budding enthusiast, the J5 has the features to help you capture stunning images and videos.
Best used mirrorless camera under 500

Price history for Sony Alpha A6100 Mirrorless Camera with 16-50mm Zoom Lens, Black (ILCE6100L/B) | |
---|---|
Latest updates:
|
|

Features
Part Number | 6052C002 |
Model | 6052C002 |
Warranty | 1 year manufacturer |
Color | Black |
Release Date | 2023-06-27T00:00:01Z |

Price history for Canon EOS R100 Mirrorless Camera, RF Mount, 24.1 MP, DIGIC 8 Image Processor, Continuous Shooting, Eye Detection AF, Full HD Video, 4K, Small, Lightweight, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Content Creation | |
---|---|
Latest updates:
|
|

Features
Part Number | ILCE6000/B |
Model | ILCE6000/B |
Warranty | 1 year coverage for parts |
Color | Black |
Release Date | 2014-04-20T00:00:01Z |
Language | English |

Price history for Sony Alpha a6000 Mirrorless Digital Camera 24.3 MP SLR Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD - Body Only (Black) | |
---|---|
Latest updates:
|
|

Features
Part Number | 4147C005 |
Model | 4147C005 |
Warranty | 1 year manufacturer |
Color | Black |
Release Date | 2020-07-30T00:00:01Z |
Size | Body |


Features
Part Number | DMC-G7KS |
Model | DMC-G7KS |
Warranty | Manufacturer |
Color | Silver |
Release Date | 2015-06-15T00:00:01Z |
Size | full-size |
Language | English |

Price history for Panasonic LUMIX G7KS 4K Mirrorless Camera, 16 Megapixel Digital Camera, 14-42 mm Lens Kit, DMC-G7KS | |
---|---|
Latest updates:
|
|


Price history for Nikon Z 5 | Our most compact full-frame mirrorless stills/video camera | Nikon USA Model | |
---|---|
Latest updates:
|
|

Features
Part Number | 3380C132 |
Model | 3380C132 |
Warranty | 1 Year Manufacturer |
Color | Black |
Release Date | 2020-04-29T00:00:01Z |
Size | 105mm |

Price history for Canon EOS RP Full-frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens Camera + RF24-105mm Lens F4-7.1 IS STM Lens Kit- Compact and Lightweight for Traveling and Vlogging, Black (3380C132) | |
---|---|
Latest updates:
|
|

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 | |
---|---|
Latest updates:
|
|

Features
Part Number | ILCE6400M/B |
Model | ILCE6400M/B |
Warranty | 1 year manufacturer |
Color | Black |
Release Date | 2019-02-28T00:00:01Z |

Price history for Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless Camera: Compact APS-C Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera with Real-Time Eye Auto Focus, 4K Video, Flip Screen & 18-135mm - E Mount Compatible Cameras ILCE-6400M/B | |
---|---|
Latest updates:
|
|

Features
Part Number | ILCE6000L/B-cr |
Model | ILCE6000L/B-cr |
Warranty | 90 days limited warranty |
Color | Black |
Language | English |

Price history for Sony Alpha a6000 Mirrorless Digitial Camera 24.3MP SLR Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD (Black) w/ 16-50mm Power Zoom Lens (Renewed) | |
---|---|
Latest updates:
|
|

Q&A:
Which is the best used mirrorless camera under 500?
One of the best used mirrorless cameras under 500 is the Sony Alpha a6000. It offers excellent image quality, fast autofocus, and a compact design.
Are there any other good options for a used mirrorless camera under 500?
Yes, the Fujifilm X-T20 is another great option. It has a retro design, excellent image quality, and a wide range of lenses available.
What about Panasonic Lumix cameras for under 500?
Yes, the Panasonic Lumix GX85 is a good choice. It has in-body image stabilization, 4K video recording, and a tilting touchscreen.
Can I find a good deal on a used Olympus mirrorless camera under 500?
Yes, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II is a solid option. It has a compact design, built-in image stabilization, and a good selection of lenses available.
Is the Canon EOS M50 a good choice for a used mirrorless camera under 500?
Yes, the Canon EOS M50 is a versatile option with a vari-angle touchscreen, 4K video recording, and a good selection of lenses.