Looking for the best cheap camera you can buy right now? You've come to the right place – we've rounded up all of our favorite bargains from the across the camera world, from DSLRs to compacts and instant cameras.
Of course, affordability means different things to different people. Perhaps you're keen on a bargain compact point-and-shoot, or you've got your eye on a good value mirrorless camera. Either way, we've got your back, with options here to meet the needs of every budget. To help you make the right decision, we've extensively tested the best cheap cameras in each category to bring you our list of recommendations in the guide below.
The most advanced and up-to-date cameras will always be the most expensive. But that doesn't mean you need to spend a fortune to get something fantastic. Cameras have been evolving at such a rapid pace in the past decade that even models which are a couple of years old are still more than capable of producing stunning results – don't forget that at launch they would have been classed as cutting-edge.
You can also pick up bargains when you're willing to sidestep certain functions. For example, if you don't (or rarely) shoot video, having 4K/60p recording won't be an essential need for you. Similarly, those with super-fast frame rates aren't necessary if you're mainly photographing static objects. If you can be more pared down with your expectations, you'll find that a whole host of affordable options opens up to you.
When making the decision about which cheap camera is right for you, there are a couple of paths you can take. Firstly, you can think about the latest entry-level models, which are new (or relatively new) to the market and are designed primarily for beginners who perhaps don't need high-end specs when they're just starting out. The other option is to look at older models which were once flagships, but have since been replaced by newer and more advanced models and have therefore come right down in price.
Our buying guide explores both of these options. So, you'll find a selection of more recent models, alongside older, more advanced models, but all of which offer great value. Remember, something can be fantastic value without being super cheap – but no matter your budget, we should have something to suit you here.
Right now, our favorite of the best cheap cameras is the Nikon D3500. This is a fantastic entry-level option which is perfect for those looking for their first 'proper' camera. While mirrorless cameras bring all the latest camera technology, DSLRs have a solid advantage when it comes to affordability – not only in terms of the camera bodies, but also the lenses and accessories that go with them too. The D3500 is a great all-rounder for first timers, with excellent battery life, a 24MP sensor and a huge catalogue of compatible lenses.
However, there might be other cheap cameras which are better suited to your needs and budget. So, with that in mind, read on to find our selection of the best cheap cameras currently on the market. Scroll to the end of the article to also find helpful hints on whether you should invest in DSLR, mirrorless or a compact too.
Best cheap cameras 2021 at a glance:
- Nikon D3500
- Fujifilm X-T20
- Sony HX90V
- Apeman A100
- Sony A6000
- Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
- Sony WX220
- Panasonic Lumix ZS100 / TZ100
- Fujifilm Instax Mini 9
- Sony Cyber-shot RX100 III
- Fujifilm X-A7
- Olympus E-PL9
- Fujifilm XP140
- Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / EOS 200D Mark II / EOS 250D
- Nikon D5600
Best cheap cameras in 2021:
The Nikon D3400 was a hugely successful and popular DSLR, and it retained plenty of appeal once the D3500 was introduced, as it managed to offer much the same thing for less money. Now, the D3500 has dropped enough in price to make it the clear best buy. Key changes over the older D3400 include a newly developed APS-C sensor (though still with 24MP) and an even better battery life of 1,550 frames per charge, next to the D3400's very capable 1,200 shots per charge. You also get a better grip and a slightly redesigned body that's a bit lighter too. The D3400 is still around and remains an excellent first-time buy, but this newer model just has a slight edge.
- Read our in-depth Nikon D3500 review
A great example of opting for an older-line model, the Fujifilm X-T20 may have since been replaced by the X-T30, but that doesn’t stop it being an excellent camera. Essentially, the X-T20 is a stripped back X-T2, which was once Fujifilm’s top-line mirrorless model. That means, you get a fantastic 24.3MP X-Trans CMOS sensor, a high-resolution electronic viewfinder, a tilting touch-sensitive screen and even 4K video recording. This is a lot of camera for the money, and to top it off, it looks great too. Action shooters are the main beneficiaries of the X-T30’s upgraded specs, so if you’re somebody that primarily captures landscapes, portraits, still life and anything else that doesn’t move much, it’s a superb choice.
- Read our in-depth Fujifilm X-T20 review
If zooming is your key concern, then a camera like the HX90V will certainly get you closer to your subject. With a 30x zoom housed in an impressively slim body, you also get useful features such as a tilting screen and a pop-up viewfinder – the latter being particularly handy when shooting in sunny climes. The compromise for offering such an extensive zoom is a smaller sensor, with a 1/2.3-inch device being less suited to low-light shooting than some models in our list. But, if it’s to be your holiday camera, that’s likely to be less of a concern. Although you are afforded manual control, those with high-end aspirations might also have their enthusiasm dampened by the lack of raw shooting, but it’s otherwise a cracking little buy.
- Read our in-depth Sony HX90V review
Although the Apeman A100 won’t win any prizes for body design or looks, the fact that it’s available for under $100 elevates highly in our list. Despite its low price, it produces sharp 4K footage, even managing to turn out some decent footage in low light conditions. There are of course some downsides to this model over the likes of the more expensive GoPro Hero 9 Black - the image stabilization isn’t as good, while sound quality is on the poor side. But if you just want a cheap and cheerful way to record your latest adventures, the Apeman A100 is an excellent choice.
- Read our Best cheap action camera feature
Don’t let the price fool you. The A6000 costs the same as other entry-level DSLR and mirrorless cameras, but it’s an advanced and powerful camera that has only dropped to this price through being on the market since 2014. So it may be old, but most of the specification still looks surprisingly fresh today. This includes a 24MP APS-C sensor, a fast hybrid 179-point autofocus system and continuous shooting at 11 frames per second (fps). Its age shows in other areas, though; it only shoots 1080p Full HD video and not 4K, and the screen isn’t touch sensitive. Still, the latter is still the case on many new Sony cameras and the A6000’s high-end features ensure that it's a camera that will grow with you.
- Read our in-depth Sony Alpha A6000 review
If you’re an eager beginner who's in the market for a compact mirrorless camera, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV should be at the top of your list. An affordable Micro Four Thirds model, the Mark IV pairs a capable 20.3MP sensor with impressive in-body image stabilization to deliver consistently attractive images using the kit lens.
With footage capped at 4K/30p and no microphone or headphone input, video isn’t a major focus. Instead, this is a small, powerful camera for stills: dynamic range is better than anything a smartphone can capture, while that IBIS system keeps images sharp even when shooting handheld after dark.
AF tracking across the Mark IV’s 121 points can be a little patchy, but improved face detection and subject tracking from the Mark III mean it’s largely reliable. Stick to centre point focus and you’ll find it fast, even in low light.
An ergonomic grip, approachable button layout and handy flip-down touchscreen make the Mark IV an accessible upgrade for smartphone photographers. And with a wide catalogue of lenses available, it shapes up as an excellent entry-level mirrorless option.
- Read our in-depth Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV review
It might be getting a little grey-haired, but the Sony Cyber-shot WX220 remains a great value compact camera. A fine all-rounder, it offers a great blend of performance, zoom range and decent image quality. And it’s now a certified bargain.
Aimed at smartphone upgraders, the WX220 isn’t one for control freaks. The menu system is convoluted and there are relatively few buttons on its compact body. There’s no thumb rest or front grip, either. Instead, you get a lightweight, tiny shell that will fit in any pocket.
Despite its diminutive proportions, the WX220 still packs a 10x optical zoom – nowhere near the longest, but impressive in such a small model, and longer than most smartphones.
Paired with the 18.2MP CMOS sensor and optical image stabilization, it delivers bright images with great colors and good detail. Look closely and you’ll notice a little image smoothing, especially at long zoom lengths, but nothing that’s noticeable at normal sharing sizes.
A solid performer that ticks plenty of boxes without breaking the bank, the WX220 is well worth a look at current prices.
- Read our in-depth Sony Cyber-shot WX220 review
Back in 2017, we called the Panasonic TZ100 “the perfect compact camera.” And, while several models have since arrived with superior specs, the TZ100 remains a fantastic option for those after an affordable compact travel camera.
Its metal shell is solid yet sufficiently small to slip into a pocket. The main controls are clustered on the back for easy one-handed control, while function buttons offer the welcome option of customization – and the touchscreen is responsive, too.
On the go, the TZ100’s 1-inch sensor (which is larger than today's smartphones) delivers vibrant, punchy images with a fair level of detail for an older compact, even in low light. Dynamic range is also decent and noise isn’t generally an issue. The 10x optical zoom will be versatile enough for most, while the option of shooting 4K footage makes simple vlogs an option as well.
Sure, its not quite as powerful as today’s premium compacts, but the TZ100 is plenty good enough for taking travel snaps to share online and will still surpass most smartphones too.
- Read our in-depth Panasonic Lumix ZS100 / TZ100 review
If it’s easy instant snaps you’re after, Fujifilm’s Instax Mini 9 remains a firm favorite, despite the arrival of the very similar Instax Mini 11. Forgoing almost all the controls you’d expect on a modern compact camera, the Mini 9 instead makes fun its focus.
Look through the straightforward viewfinder, click the shutter button and in a jiffy you’ll find a credit card-sized print coming from the top of its retro shell.
Charming for its simplicity, the plastic shell of the Instax Mini 9 ships in a spectrum of bold shades, while a little mirror on the front makes framing selfies a cinch. A simple five-level brightness adjustment dial is the extent of its inputs, making the affordable Mini 9 perfect for parties and play-dates.
Print quality is naturally limited, but the idea here is to capture retro-style memories rather than crystal clear images. The color film is a little pricey, so you’ll want to make your shots count.
- Read our Should you buy a Fujifilm Instax Mini? feature
This series has now reached its seventh generation, but it's the RX100 Mark III that currently offers the best value for those looking to upgrade from their smartphone. It was the first model in the series with a built-in electronic viewfinder – a huge boon for shooting in sunny conditions – and it has a large 1-inch sensor, which produces excellent image quality. You also get a tilting screen and a speedy 10fps continuous shooting mode for capturing moving subjects. If you need 4K video or slo-mo video, then it's worth stretching to the RX100 Mark IV – but the Mark III has recently dropped to some impressively low prices for such a capable, smartphone-beating compact camera.
- Read our in-depth Sony Cyber-shot RX100 III review
Proof that entry-level doesn't have to be a synonym for underpowered or basic, the Fujifilm X-A7 packs a seriously impressive spec list for an affordable mirrorless camera.
Its hybrid autofocus system isn’t the fastest, but real-world performance is superb, with superlative subject detection and tracking. Images are crisp and sharp with outstanding color reproduction, while noise control is likewise stellar, even as high as ISO 1600.
In the hand, a shallow grip means the X-A7 isn’t especially comfortable to hold for long periods and the position of the joystick makes it tricky to reach with your thumb. Then again, the trade-off is a shell that’s compact, lightweight and stylish, in an old-school sort of way.
Image stabilization would’ve been a welcome addition and some might want a viewfinder, but with 4K video in the mix, the X-A7 stands out as an ideal traveling companion. Set aside those ergonomic niggles and it’s an almost perfect affordable option – and an ideal smartphone upgrade.
- Read our in-depth Fujifilm X-A7 review
It may have since been succeeded by the Olympus Pen E-PL10, but this mirrorless model is almost identical and is now a serious bargain as a result. If you're looking for a stylish camera that can take smartphone-beating snaps and has a huge range of lenses, the E-PL9 is well worth a look.
One of the benefits of its small, friendly design is that it's not too intimidating or noticeable, making it ideal for taking people shots or portraits. This does mean the E-PL9 lacks a built-in viewfinder, but those coming from a smartphone won't miss that, and it does otherwise combine good handling with a straightforward, beginner-friendly menu system.
The E-PL9's tried-and-tested 16.1MP Live MOS Micro Four Thirds sensor captures nicely rendered shots in most situations. And despite its compact size, its 3-axis image stabilization system is there to give you a helping hand in low light situations. At current prices, there aren't many interchangeable lens cameras that offer a better range of features than the E-PL9.
- Read our in-depth Olympus PEN E-PL9 review
Well-priced yet built tough, the Fujifilm XP140 is one investment that should pay dividends for those with clumsy hands. Dustproof, shockproof to 1.8m and freeze-proof to -10ºC, it’s also waterproof down to 25m – which means it should survive just about anything you can throw at it.
More than a beefed-up bargain camera, the XP140 can also capture great images. It keeps the same stabilized 16.4MP sensor as the XP140 but adds improved scene- and eye-detection smarts, which help to deliver sharp portrait pictures. 4K footage is limited at 15fps, but 1080/60p video is smooth, while the option to shoot 720p slow-mo at 100fps is neat. The maximum ISO has also doubled to 12,800 which, with a back-illuminated sensor, makes for better low-light images, including underwater shots.
5x optical zoom offers decent versatility for a rugged compact, while the 3-inch touchscreen makes controlling the camera straightforward. With Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity also in the mix, the Fujifilm XP140 represents great value.
When the original EOS 200D / Rebel SL2 launched, it became an instant hit with anyone looking to enter the world of photography. Its easy-to-use menu system and on-screen user guide was a great help and the EOS 250D (confusingly also called the Rebel SL3 and EOS 200D Mark II) carries on that tradition. It offers beginners room to grow into more confident shooters. Canon's superb Dual Pixel CMOS AF system is available for smooth focusing during Live View, although 4K video is subject to limitations. Still, it's quite easy to find a dual lens kit for the EOS 250D for well under the $1,000 mark.
- Read our in-depth Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / EOS 250D review
The D5600 is a step up from the D3000-series models, with a stronger set of specs to rival the likes of the Canon EOS Rebel T7i / EOS 800D. Key advantages over the D3500 (listed in position one here) include a larger LCD screen, which not only flips out and swivels all the way around to face the front, but also responds to touch, together with a more advanced autofocus system, Wi-Fi and a healthy range of additional control on the inside. Sure, you pay a little extra for the privilege, but if you need a little more growing space it makes sense to go for the D5600 so that it stays with you for years to come.
- Read our in-depth Nikon D5600 review
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