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DSLR Cameras

8 best dSLR cameras: our comparison (May 2026)

12 May 2026 1 min read
Discover our ranking of the 8 best dSLR cameras based on our tests.

Ranking

#1 🏆 Best choice
Canon EOS 2000D + EF-S 18-55mm III Lens - Easy-to-use DSLR Camera with a Versatile Lens, Ideal for Portraits and Landscapes

Canon

Canon EOS 2000D + EF-S 18-55mm III Lens - Easy-to-use DSLR Camera with a Versatile Lens, Ideal for Portraits and Landscapes

  • 24.1 MP APS‑C sensor with good image quality for the price
  • Very beginner‑friendly controls and interface, easy to get started
  • Versatile 18‑55mm zoom lens covers portraits and landscapes, good all‑rounder
After spending time with the Canon EOS 2000D + 18‑55mm kit, my conclusion is simple: it’s a good first DSLR for someone starting from scratch, with clear limits that you’ll eventually bump into if you get more serious. The image quality is solid for the price, especially in decent light, and the 24.1 MP sensor gives you sharp, detailed photos that easily beat most phones for portraits and low‑light shots. The controls are clear, the learning curve is manageable, and there’s plenty of online help if the paper manual feels overwhelming.Where it falls short is in more demanding situations: sports, fast action, and serious video work. The 9‑point autofocus and 3 fps burst are fine for casual use but not more. The lack of optical stabilisation in the kit lens is also a real downside, especially in low light and handheld video. The body feels okay but not tough, and the fixed screen makes some angles and vlogging less practical.If you’re an amateur or beginner who wants to move beyond phone photography, learn the basics, and have a simple, affordable camera that gets the job done, this kit makes sense. If you already know you care a lot about video, fast action, or want something more future‑proof, I’d say skip it and look higher up in the Canon range or at a modern mirrorless body. For what it is — an entry‑level DSLR at a fair price — it’s a decent, no‑drama choice.
8.7 /10
★★★★★ ★★★★★
🌟 Excellent See full review →
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#2
Canon EOS 4000D Kit + EF-S 18-55 DC III + 75-300 DC, 3011C010 (III + 75-300 DC) (Renewed)

Canon

Canon EOS 4000D Kit + EF-S 18-55 DC III + 75-300 DC, 3011C010 (III + 75-300 DC) (Renewed)

  • Very affordable way to get a DSLR body plus two lenses covering 18–300mm
  • Decent 18 MP image quality in good light and simple, beginner-friendly controls
  • Wi‑Fi makes it easy to transfer photos to a phone and there’s a 1‑year limited warranty on the renewed product
After using this renewed Canon EOS 4000D kit with the 18–55mm and 75–300mm, my opinion is pretty straightforward: it’s a basic but useful starter kit. Image quality in good light is decent, the zoom range from 18 to 300mm covers most everyday situations, and the Wi‑Fi is handy for quickly sharing photos. The camera feels cheap and the features are dated, but for someone who just wants to learn the basics of DSLR photography without spending much, it does the job.Who is it for? Beginners on a tight budget, parents who want more reach than a phone for kids’ events, or someone who needs a simple backup camera. You get enough control to learn exposure, and the two lenses let you experiment with wide and telephoto shots right away. Who should skip it? Anyone serious about video, people who shoot a lot in low light, or users already used to faster autofocus and better build quality. If you’re picky about image stabilization, 4K, or weather sealing, this kit will feel limiting pretty fast.Overall, I’d rate it as a solid budget option with clear compromises. If you go in knowing it’s an entry-level, older DSLR with plastic lenses and no fancy features, you’ll probably be satisfied. If you expect modern performance and pro-level build, you’ll be disappointed. For the price I paid as a renewed bundle, I’m okay with it and will keep using it as a loaner and casual travel setup.
8.7 /10
★★★★★ ★★★★★
🌟 Excellent See full review →
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#3 🔥 Most popular
Canon EOS 2000D DSLR Camera and EF-S 18-55 mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Lens - Black Body + 18-55 mm Lens

Canon

Canon EOS 2000D DSLR Camera and EF-S 18-55 mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Lens - Black Body + 18-55 mm Lens

⭐ Très bien noté 🔥 Populaire
  • 24.1 MP sensor delivers sharp, detailed photos in good light
  • Simple controls and feature guide make it friendly for beginners
  • Good battery life and optical viewfinder keep it practical for full-day use
The Canon EOS 2000D with the 18‑55mm IS II lens is a straightforward, no-nonsense way to get into “real” photography. The image quality is solid, the controls are easy to understand, and the optical viewfinder plus decent battery life make it a reliable tool for day-to-day shooting. If you mostly shoot travel, family, and everyday scenes and want something better than your phone without drowning in complexity, this combo does the job very well for the price.It’s not a perfect camera. The fixed, non-touch screen feels dated, the autofocus and 3 fps burst are clearly limited for action or fast-moving subjects, and video is capped at 1080p with basic features. If you’re focused on sports, wildlife, or serious video work, you’ll hit those limits pretty quickly. But as an entry-level DSLR that lets you learn manual modes, experiment with lenses, and still get photos good enough to print and frame, it’s a pretty solid package.I’d recommend it to beginners, casual shooters, and anyone who wants a cheap but capable body to start building a Canon lens collection. People who should probably skip it: hardcore videographers, action shooters, and those who absolutely need a flip screen or 4K. For everyone else who just wants a reliable starter DSLR, this kit is a sensible choice that gets the basics right.
8.6 /10
★★★★★ ★★★★★
🌟 Excellent See full review →
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#4
Canon EOS 4000D DSLR Camera and EF-S 18-55 mm f/3.5-5.6 III Lens - Black (Renewed) Body + 18-55mm Lens

Canon

Canon EOS 4000D DSLR Camera and EF-S 18-55 mm f/3.5-5.6 III Lens - Black (Renewed) Body + 18-55mm Lens

  • Very affordable way to get a DSLR body plus 18–55mm lens
  • Good still photo quality in decent light with natural colors
  • Simple controls and light body make it beginner‑friendly
After using the Canon EOS 4000D (renewed) for a while, I’d sum it up like this: it’s a cheap, straightforward way to get into DSLR photography, with clear limits that you’ll notice if you’re expecting modern performance. The photo quality is good for the price, especially in decent light, and the controls are easy enough for beginners to pick up quickly. The light weight makes it comfortable to carry, and the included 18–55mm lens covers everyday situations pretty well. For learning the basics and shooting family, travel, and general stuff, it does the job.Where it falls short is mainly in autofocus speed, video features, and overall “modern feel.” The screen is small and fixed, video is only 1080p with sluggish autofocus, and the body feels plasticky. If you care a lot about video, vlogging, or shooting fast action, you’ll probably find it frustrating and might be better off saving for a newer mirrorless model. If your budget is limited and your focus is mainly still photography and learning, this renewed kit offers good value and a simple entry into the Canon ecosystem.So, who is it for? Beginners who want to move beyond a phone, don’t want to spend too much, and mainly care about still photos. Who should skip it? People who want strong video features, fast autofocus, or a camera that feels more premium and future‑proof. As long as you go in with realistic expectations, it’s a decent, budget‑friendly tool to start taking photography a bit more seriously.
8.6 /10
★★★★★ ★★★★★
🌟 Excellent See full review →
See offer Amazon
#5
Nikon D7000 Digital SLR Camera with 18-105mm VR Lens Kit (16.2MP) 3 inch LCD (Renewed)

Nikon

Nikon D7000 Digital SLR Camera with 18-105mm VR Lens Kit (16.2MP) 3 inch LCD (Renewed)

  • Solid, comfortable DSLR body with lots of physical controls and dual SD card slots
  • 18–105mm VR lens covers a useful zoom range for everyday shooting with stabilisation
  • Good stills image quality at low to mid ISO and reliable autofocus for static subjects
After a few weeks with the renewed Nikon D7000 and 18–105mm VR kit, my overall feeling is that it’s a solid stills camera for the price, with some clear age-related limits. The body is robust, handling is good thanks to all the physical controls, and the 39‑point autofocus is still usable for most everyday situations. The 16.2 MP sensor is not cutting‑edge, but for normal prints and online use, it does the job. Paired with the 18–105mm lens, you’ve got a flexible setup that covers landscapes, portraits, and general travel shots without changing lenses.On the downside, this is not a modern video camera, low‑light performance is only decent, and the whole experience feels dated if you’re used to fast, connected devices. Being a renewed product adds some uncertainty: some boxes come nicely kitted out, others arrive missing a proper battery or charger. I’d treat it as buying a good used camera with a bit of safety net from Amazon’s guarantee, not as buying something fresh from the factory.If you’re a novice or enthusiast who mainly wants to shoot photos, learn manual controls, and doesn’t care much about video or having the newest tech, this kit makes sense and offers good value. If you’re very picky about accessories, want top‑tier low‑light or 4K video, or prefer something compact and modern, you should probably skip this and look at newer mirrorless options or just stick with a high‑end phone. For what it is—a renewed, older DSLR—it still gets the job done and can be a nice way to get back into photography without spending a fortune.
8.3 /10
★★★★★ ★★★★★
🌟 Excellent See full review →
See offer Amazon
#6
Nikon D5100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm VR Lens Kit (16.2MP) 3 inch LCD (Renewed)

Nikon

Nikon D5100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm VR Lens Kit (16.2MP) 3 inch LCD (Renewed)

  • Good image quality in decent light from the 16.2 MP APS-C sensor
  • Flip-out vari-angle screen makes low and high angle shots much easier
  • Very affordable way to get into DSLR photography with an optical viewfinder
After using this renewed Nikon D5100 kit for a couple of weeks, my feeling is pretty clear: it’s not a modern camera, but it still does the basics well, and for the right person it’s a sensible budget choice. The 16.2 MP sensor still delivers clean, nice-looking photos in good light, the flip-out screen is genuinely useful for awkward angles, and the overall handling is straightforward once you get used to the Nikon layout. As a low-cost way to learn manual settings, depth of field, and general photography basics, it works.On the downside, the age shows everywhere else. Autofocus is just okay, especially for moving subjects, low-light performance is limited, video is dated at 1080p with weak continuous AF, and the lack of included battery in this listing is annoying. The refurbished condition on my unit was solid but not “like new” cosmetically, so you have to be comfortable with minor wear. If you want modern features like 4K, fast tracking AF, easy phone connectivity, or USB charging, this is not for you.I’d recommend this kit to beginners on a tight budget, students, or someone who wants a cheap Nikon body to play with F-mount lenses. It’s also fine as a backup body if you already shoot Nikon and don’t want to risk your main camera in rough situations. If you’re serious about video, shoot a lot of action, or hate dealing with older tech, you’re better off saving up for a newer DSLR or mirrorless. For the price in the Renewed section, though, it’s a pretty solid, no-frills tool for learning and casual photography.
8.1 /10
★★★★★ ★★★★★
🌟 Excellent See full review →
See offer Amazon
#7 💰 Best price
Nikon D60 Digital SLR Camera - Black (AF-S DX Nikkor 18-55 mm f/3.5-5.6G VR) (Renewed)

Nikon

Nikon D60 Digital SLR Camera - Black (AF-S DX Nikkor 18-55 mm f/3.5-5.6G VR) (Renewed)

  • Low price for a DSLR body + stabilised 18–55mm lens kit
  • Decent image quality in good light, fine for everyday use and learning
  • Refurbished unit came clean and functional, backed by a 1‑year warranty
After using this renewed Nikon D60 kit for a couple of weeks, my feeling is pretty clear: it’s an old but still usable DSLR that makes sense at the right price and for the right person. In good light, the photos are perfectly decent, the 18–55mm VR lens covers everyday needs, and the camera is simple enough that a beginner can learn the basics without drowning in menus. The refurbished unit I got was clean and functional, with only minor cosmetic wear, and the 1‑year warranty is a nice safety net.On the other hand, you have to accept that you’re buying technology that’s clearly behind what’s standard today. Low‑light performance is limited, autofocus is basic, the screen is small, and modern features like Wi‑Fi or proper video are basically absent (regardless of what the product page tries to suggest). If you want something that connects to your phone in two taps and shoots clean photos at ISO 3200, this is not it.So who is it for? It’s for beginners on a tight budget who want to learn photography with a real camera and don’t care about the latest gadgets, and for people who want a cheap backup body they won’t stress about. Who should skip it? Anyone serious about low‑light shooting, action, or video, and anyone who hates dealing with old‑school file transfers and menus. If you fit in the first group and catch it at a good price, it’s a pretty solid deal. If not, better to save a bit more for something newer.
8 /10
★★★★★ ★★★★★
🌟 Excellent See full review →
See offer Amazon
#8
Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm VR Lens Kit (14.2MP) 3 inch LCD (Renewed)

Nikon

Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm VR Lens Kit (14.2MP) 3 inch LCD (Renewed)

  • Very affordable way to get a real DSLR body plus a stabilized zoom lens
  • Image quality is still good in daylight and for casual use
  • Simple controls and comfortable grip make it easy for beginners to learn
After spending time with the renewed Nikon D3100 kit, my take is pretty straightforward: it’s a decent, no-frills DSLR for beginners or budget-conscious users, as long as you accept that it’s an old model with limits. In good light, the 14.2 MP sensor and 18–55mm VR lens produce sharp, usable photos that easily beat cheap compacts and can still hold their own against many phones, especially if you care about using a real zoom lens and manual controls. The body is light, the grip is comfortable, and the basic controls are easy to learn.On the downside, you’re buying into older tech. Autofocus is fine for still or slow subjects but not great for fast action. Low‑light performance is clearly behind modern cameras, the screen is fixed and not very sharp, and there’s no built‑in wireless connectivity. Being a renewed product adds another layer of uncertainty: my copy was in good shape, but some buyers clearly weren’t as lucky. If you go for it, do it for the low price and the chance to learn photography basics on real hardware, not because you expect a modern all‑rounder.I’d recommend this kit to: students starting photography, people who want a cheap DSLR for travel and family shots, or anyone curious about interchangeable-lens cameras who doesn’t want to invest too much upfront. I’d skip it if: you care a lot about video, shoot a lot in low light, need fast autofocus, or are planning to do paid work soon. In those cases, saving for a newer body will probably make you happier in the long run.
7 /10
★★★★★ ★★★★★
👍 Very good See full review →
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Comparison table : DSLR cameras

Overall score Value for money Design Battery Durability Performance Presentation
Canon EOS 2000D + EF-S 18-55mm III Lens - Easy-to-use DSLR Camera with a Versatile Lens, Ideal for Portraits and Landscapes
#1 Canon
Canon EOS 2000D + EF-S 18-55mm III Lens...
See offer Amazon
8.7/10 ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★
Canon EOS 4000D Kit + EF-S 18-55 DC III + 75-300 DC, 3011C010 (III + 75-300 DC) (Renewed)
#2 Canon
Canon EOS 4000D Kit + EF-S 18-55 DC III...
See offer Amazon
8.7/10 ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★
Canon EOS 2000D DSLR Camera and EF-S 18-55 mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Lens - Black Body + 18-55 mm Lens
#3 Canon
Canon EOS 2000D DSLR Camera and EF-S 18-...
See offer Amazon
8.6/10 ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★
Canon EOS 4000D DSLR Camera and EF-S 18-55 mm f/3.5-5.6 III Lens - Black (Renewed) Body + 18-55mm Lens
#4 Canon
Canon EOS 4000D DSLR Camera and EF-S 18-...
See offer Amazon
8.6/10 ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★
Nikon D7000 Digital SLR Camera with 18-105mm VR Lens Kit (16.2MP) 3 inch LCD (Renewed)
#5 Nikon
Nikon D7000 Digital SLR Camera with 18-1...
See offer Amazon
8.3/10 ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★
Nikon D5100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm VR Lens Kit (16.2MP) 3 inch LCD (Renewed)
#6 Nikon
Nikon D5100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-5...
See offer Amazon
8.1/10 ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★
Nikon D60 Digital SLR Camera - Black (AF-S DX Nikkor 18-55 mm f/3.5-5.6G VR) (Renewed)
#7 Nikon
Nikon D60 Digital SLR Camera - Black (AF...
See offer Amazon
8/10 ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★
Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm VR Lens Kit (14.2MP) 3 inch LCD (Renewed)
#8 Nikon
Nikon D3100 Digital SLR Camera with 18-5...
See offer Amazon
7/10 ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★ ★★★★★

Frequently asked questions

According to our tests, the best dSLR cameras is the Canon EOS 2000D + EF-S 18-55mm III Lens - Easy-to-use DSLR Camera with a Versatile Lens, Ideal for Portraits and Landscapes with a score of 8.7/10.

The cheapest dSLR cameras in our comparison is the Nikon D60 Digital SLR Camera - Black (AF-S DX Nikkor 18-55 mm f/3.5-5.6G VR) (Renewed).

The most popular dSLR cameras is the Canon EOS 2000D DSLR Camera and EF-S 18-55 mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Lens - Black Body + 18-55 mm Lens with 1 122 customer reviews.

To choose a dSLR cameras, we recommend comparing performance, build quality, value for money and user reviews. Our comparison table above helps you make the right choice.

We have tested 8 DSLR cameras to establish this ranking.
#1 Canon EOS 2000D + EF-S 18-55mm III Lens - Easy-to-use DSLR Camera with a Versatile Lens, Ideal for Portraits and Landscapes Canon EOS 2000D + EF-S 18-55mm III Lens - Easy-to-use DSLR Camera with a Versatile Lens, Ideal for Portraits and Landscapes
8.7/10 Best choice
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