Best Budget Digital SLR (dSLR)

(November 17, 2009)

Going for a budget DSLR doesn’t mean you’ll be purchasing a sub-par camera. Nikon, Canon, and other manufacturers produce great entry-level digital SLRs that cost a fraction of the price of top tier professional models yet still provide excellent image quality, extensive manual controls, compatiability with a wide range of lenses and accessories, and all the features you’ll need. These entry-level models are ideal for beginners buying their first dSLR or budget-minded advanced photographers and enthusiasts.

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Canon EOS Rebel XSi Black SLR Digital Camera Kit

Why it's best:
The affordable Canon’s Rebel XSi is an easy to use DSLR that delivers a winning combination of superb image quality, great build quality, and an advanced feature set that's great for beginners and advanced photographers alike. Performance is fast and responsive, batter...read full review

Price Range:
$539.00 - $599.00
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Available From:
Beach Camera    $599.00
BestPriceElectronics.com    $539.00

Why it's a best pick:
Ideal for beginners and first-time buyers, the Nikon D3000 is a terrific entry-level DSLR that performs great for the money. This 10.2 megapixel digital SLR, which replaces the very popular and versatile D40, is the perfect choice for beginners that are becoming more serious... read full review

Price Range:
$496.95 - $499.99
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Available From:
Abe's of Maine    $496.95
PC Connection Express    $499.95

Why it's a best pick:
If the XSi is a bit out of your price range but you still want a top-notch entry-level SLR camera, the Canon XS nearly matches its image quality and features yet costs a couple hundred less. The XS offers great overall picture quality and its CMOS sensor produces noise-free ... read full review

Price Range:
$499.00 - $569.99
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Available From:
Abe's of Maine    $499.00
PC Connection Express    $529.95

Why it's a best pick:
Nikon’s D40 DSLR is a great choice for a beginner DSLR. While it is only a 6 megapixel camera, its excellent image quality and low price make it a solid choice for first-time buyers. It is small, light, and easy to use, and you'll get great results from it under most ... read full review

Available From:
Amazon.com    $568.00

Why it's a best pick:
The Pentax K2000's great image quality, low price, and ease of use makes it an excellent choice for photographers on a budget. This camera is very user-friendly and can be used a point and shoot, but the advanced controls are very accessible and provide plenty of control ove... read full review

Available From:
TriStateCamera.com    $599.95
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