As camera technology advances, the best camera under 500 turns out to be progressively more remarkable, offering some incredible highlights at an attractively reasonable cost. These cameras show that the costly cameras aren’t the most useful, but also beginner level devices can catch excellent photographs. Besides, the best modest cameras regularly arrive in a lightweight and smaller body as well. So in our buying guide, we are going to discuss the top 15 best cameras under 500.
1. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II Camera
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II is the best micro four-thirds camera for professional photography. This alludes to the size of the sensor, being somewhat more modest than an APS-C sensor.
The aps-c sensor size generally decides the focal point’s size, and the MFT design was created to offer extraordinary picture quality without forfeiting movability. With the EM-10 Mark II, you’re getting a great deal of the most recent innovation packed into a compact body that holds those satisfying DSLR-like ergonomics.
Likewise stuffed inside is the most recent image processor, 5-axis picture adjustment, 8.5 fps, a touch screen shifting LCD show, class-driving self-adjust execution and significantly more.
This is the best camera under 500 in the list with picture adjustment – an element typically found on substantially more costly camera bodies, empowering you to handhold the camera in low light, permitting the utilization of more slow screen paces and lower ISOs (for a clearer picture).
Despite having the smallest picture sensor out of the relative multitude of cameras referenced here, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II can stand its ground as far as picture quality.
Pros of Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II:
- Compact body
- Easy to use
- Large, sharp EVF
- 5-axis image stabilization
- Tilting touch-screen display
- 8.6fps continuous shooting
- Built-in flash
- Marvelous image quality
Cons of Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II:
- Wacky power switch
- No mic input
2. Canon EOS M100 DSLR Camera
Another best camera under 500 is Canon EOS M100. The advanced innovation of the 24MP APS-C sensor and Dual Pixel autofocus system is acquired from cameras a lot higher up in the Canon range, implying that the EOS M100 is probably the best camera for the dollar accessible this year.
The Dual Pixel self-adjust conveys quick, exact subject following and combined with the responsive, 180 degrees tilting touchscreen, this reduced mirrorless camera is truly enjoyable to utilize.
Video shooters will value the capacity to ‘rack centre’, just by hauling a finger across the touchscreen starting with one subject then onto the next. This high-level component isn’t ordinarily seen on a smaller camera, not to mention a mirrorless camera costing under $500.
With the selfie-accommodating turning screen, a skin-smoothing/foundation obscuring highlight, tradable camera ‘coats’, Creative Filters (for example grainy film, vintage, fish-eye, and so on) and Wifi to transfer pictures to cell phone quickly, unmistakably the EOS M100 is focused on the Instagram generation.
Tipping the scales at just 266g (9.4 oz.), the EOS M100 is little and light enough to be conveyed anywhere, with its structure factor being undermined exclusively by the focal point you decide to use.
Pros of EOS M100:
- Compact camera
- 24MP APS-C sensor
- Fast autofocus
- 6.1fps burst shooting
- Tilting touch LCD
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Ideal for professional photography
Cons of EOS M100:
- No electronic viewfinder
- Few external controls
3. Nikon D3500 DSLR Camera
The Nikon D3500 is the most recent adaptation of Nikon’s entry-level camera. Dispatched toward the finish of 2018, it’s adequately an update to the evergreen D3400, a starter DSLR that has been a drawn-out top choice.
There haven’t been numerous changes, and it’s improbable you’d need to update your old D3400 (or D3300 before it) to the new D3500. Anyway, this invigorate is sufficient to keep it in our guide of the best cameras under 500.
The D3500 isn’t only Nikon’s least expensive and most straightforward DSLR, it’s also remarkable due to its lightest, weighing simply 415g body, and that is with the battery and a memory card. It will generally accompany a lightweight 18-55mm AF-P pack focal point which has a withdrawing instrument to make it more convenient when it’s not turned on.
But on the other hand, it’s viable with a wide scope of F-mount focal points and has an adequate determination to satisfy fans just as amateurs. So is this outstanding amongst other modest cameras you can get.
Pros of Nikon D3500:
- 24MP resolution
- Compact camera
- Affordable price
- 5fps continuous shooting
- Excellent image quality
- Automatic image transfer via Bluetooth
- Perfect for beginner user level
Cons of Nikon D3500:
- No mic input
4. Canon EOS Rebel SL3 Camera
The T100/4000D was so modest that it was very unappealing and looks as though it’s in transit out, while the highlights of the SL7/2000D have been scaled back so difficult to make its low-value point that it’s difficult to suggest.
The SL3/250D costs more, however, it merits paying the extra. It accompanies Canon’s top APS-C sensor, excellent Live View self-adjust, a vari-point touchscreen and 4K video capture abilities.
Notwithstanding the discussion around DSLRs versus mirrorless cameras, the DSLR configuration has a ton making it work.
DSLRs are chunkier and simpler to hold than most amateurs orientated mirrorless cameras, they have clear optical viewfinders which may be liked over advanced variants, and the batteries last significantly longer since they’re not ceaselessly operating a digital display.
Pros of Canon EOS Rebel SL3:
- Vari-angle touch LCD
- External mic support
- Lightweight camera design
- 3-inch Fully articulated touchscreen
- Easy to use
- High-quality video
- Great battery life
- Superb image quality
Pros of Canon EOS Rebel SL3:
- No in-body image stabilization
5. Nikon D5300 Digital Camera
The D5300 shows up as the best camera under 500. It offers a small bunch of highlights not normally seen on different models of its sort.
These incorporate a liberally measured 3.2in LCD screen, a 39-point AF framework and surprisingly a GPS framework, the last making it especially solid for voyaging picture takers.
Nikon additionally decided to drop the counter-associating channel from the camera’s 24.2MP APS-C sensor, which gives it an edge as far as the detail it can catch over rival 24MP bodies.
The D5300 is somewhat more modest than the Canon T5i but has a marginally more considerable hand-hold which contributes significantly to its sensation of strength in the hand.
Though the Canon’s control dial (for openness change) is on the top-plate, the D5300’s dial can be found on the back of the camera.
The Nikon D5300 offers a higher goal sensor, more AF focus, and the capacity to shoot high-quality video.
It likewise remembers worked for Wi-Fi and GPS. The D5300 is marginally more modest than the Canon taking all things together with measurements and somewhat lighter.
Pros of Nikon D5300:
- Good video quality
- Decent continuous shooting rate
- Quick startup
- Sharp vari-angle display
- Built-in Wi-Fi
- 39-point autofocus system
Pros of Nikon D5300:
- Single control wheel
- Disappointing kit lens
6. Olympus PEN E-PL9 Micro Four Thirds Camera
The PEN E-PL9 from Olympus is a Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera characterized by its adaptable imaging capacities and an assortment of in-camera imaginative controls.
Utilizing a 16.1MP Live MOS sensor and TruePic VIII picture processor, a brisk nonstop shooting pace of 8.6 fps benefits working with moving subjects while a top affectability of ISO 25600 suits working in low-light conditions.
Beyond stills shooting, UHD 4K30p video recording is additionally upheld alongside fast HD 720p120 chronicle for moderate movement playback.
Profiting both photograph and film applications, a 121-territory FAST self-adjust framework is both brisk and exact and works related to the back touchscreen. Furthermore, 3-axis sensor-move picture adjustment is likewise highlighted to lessen the presence of camera shake by 3.5 stops for more keen handheld shooting.
The E-PL9 likewise separates itself through its classy outside, which coordinates a reduced right-hand grasp, clean lines, an agreeable dark leatherette wrap, and a foil stepped Olympus logo on the front.
Coordinating with the purpose of the rich outside, the camera is designed for selfie lovers out there, with the consideration of a 3.0″ 1.04m-speck 180° shifting touchscreen LCD. Furthermore, the camera is additionally fitted with underlying Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for remote picture sharing and camera control from a connected cell phone or tablet.
Pros of PEN E-PL9:
- Snappy autofocus
- In-body image stabilization
- Tilting touch LCD
- 4k video
- Slim, attractive design
- Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
Cons of PEN E-PL9:
- Small Raw shooting buffer
- No EVF
7. Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 III Camera
The Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 III is an adaptable and advanced camera including an enormous 20.1 megapixel 1″ Exmor R CMOS sensor to deliver high-resolution still symbolism and full HD 1080p video.
This present sensor’s design uses rear enlightened innovation to improve clearness and picture quality when working in faintly lit conditions just as increment the affectability to a local ISO 12800.
Profiting the exhibition of this sensor is the BIONZ X picture processor, which assists with delivering pictures with smooth quality and apparent degrees just as give sped up execution all through all parts of the camera, including a ceaseless shooting pace of 10 fps in Speed Priority mode, screen discharge slack of 0.008 sec., and XAVC S film recording at 50 Mbps.
The inherent Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* 2.9x long range focal point gives a 35mm-identical central length scope of 24-70mm, covering wide-point to representation length viewpoints to suit working in a wide assortment of conditions.
An f/1.8-2.8 most extreme aperture advantages working in low lighting and controlling concentration all through the zoom range.
Optical SteadyShot picture adjustment is additionally accessible to help limit the presence of camera shake when working in faintly lit conditions and with more prominent zoom amplifications.
Besides, an inherent three-stop ND channel is joined into the camera’s design to suit shooting in brilliant conditions with more extensive apertures.
Pros of Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 III:
- Big 1-inch CMOS sensor
- 10fps burst shooting
- Customizable controls
- Excellent high ISO performance
- Raw support
- Pop-up OLED EVF
- Stunning image quality
- Wonderful video recording
Cons of Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 III:
- Very expensive
8. Canon EOS Rebel T6 DSLR Camera
The T6/EOS 1300D is a great beginner user-level DSLR, featuring amazing characteristics that ensure stunning picture quality with ease. It’s a decent choice for novices. But there are other entry-level DSLRs accessible in case you’re willing to pay somewhat more.
The sensor is equivalent to the EOS Rebel T5/EOS 1200D’s at 18 million pixels, while the processor gets a modest upgrade to the DIGIC 4+ (the Rebel T5’s had a standard DIGIC 4). Notwithstanding, taking into account that Canon’s most recent processor is the DIGIC 7, the 4+ is presently looking like a pretty old innovation.
The T6/EOS 1300D utilizes the EF-S focal point mount, which is viable with the entirety of Canon’s EF scope of focal points. This is one of the best cameras under 500.
The T6/EOS 1300D is Canon’s most recent section level suggestion, and it’s accessible at an incredible cost for novices, understudies or anybody new to DSLR photography. Truth be told, it is the best camera under 500 than a ton of normal compact cameras.
Pros of EOS Rebel T6:
- On-screen shooting guide
- Raw capture support
- In-camera Wi-Fi
- 3 inch Fixed Type Screen
- Crisp rear LCD
- Outstanding photo quality
- Perfect for beginner user level
Cons of EOS Rebel T6:
- Dated image sensor
- Excellent compact camera
9. Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II Camera
The Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II is one of the best cameras under 500 for photography, highlighting some helpful contraptions. It is considered the best camera under 500. It’s such a superb deal that I needed to incorporate it.
Expanding on an amazing 20.2MP 1″ sensor, the 24-100mm comparable focal point is the genuine stand apart component, offering an opening scope of f/1.8 – 2.8.
The camera permits you to shoot without a glimmer in low light, without turning to higher ISOs which may achieve a boisterous picture.
The ISO execution on the Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II is in reality useful for a sensor of this size, however, taking shots at lower ISOs is consistently good.
Another processor takes into consideration better face recognition and gives snappier shooting and activity speeds than the past model.
As you zoom the focal point (regardless of whether with the committed control slider or with the focal point ring set to one of the two zoom works), the opening changes from f/1.8 at the focal point’s broadest point, to f/2.8.
For a particularly compact mirrorless camera, the Canon G7 X Mark II has incredible ergonomics, with a raised, rubberised hold on the front and the back – something that its archetype was deficient.
Pros of Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II:
- Wide aperture zoom lens
- 1-inch image sensor
- Tilting touch-screen display
- Quick autofocus
- Raw image capture support
- Wi-Fi with NFC
Cons of Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II:
- No 4k video
10. Panasonic Lumix FZ82 Digital Camera
If you are burnt out on searching for the best cameras under $500? At that point test the Panasonic Lumix FZ82. It is an ideal decision for novices which offers a wide scope of chances.
This scaffold camera has an incredible focal point covering a central length scope of 20–1200 mm, comparable to 35 mm. This camera will satisfy you with phenomenal optical zoom also.
You will want to control shooting modes because of the manual settings for video and photography. Try not to stress over the 18.1MP High-Sensitivity MOS sensor as it very well may be utilized even in low-light conditions.
At last, this camera will meet the necessities of the shooter who is enamoured with voyaging. It is superfluous to convey extra optics for central lengths.
The FZ80 is your common extension simple to use. It was a little (1/2.3-inch) picture sensor to a major long-range focal point, assembling the two out of a body that is about the size of a little SLR.
Placing that glass before a sensor type produced for pocket-accommodating cameras considers a staggering zoom range, significantly more than you’d get from any SLR focal point, in a bundle that actions 3.7 by 5.1 by 4.7 inches (HWD) and weighs about 1.4 pounds.
Pros of Panasonic Lumix FZ82:
- Huge 60x zoom range
- Fast autofocus
- 10fps Raw capture
- 30fps 4K Photo capture
- Touch LCD
- Sharp EVF
- High-quality video
Cons of Panasonic Lumix FZ82:
- No EVF eye sensor
- Fixed rear LCD
11. Nikon COOLPIX B500 Digital Camera
The black COOLPIX B500 Digital Camera is one of the best cameras under 500. If you have a budget of $300-$400 price range, you can easily get this camera.
It includes a 16MP sensor, 40x optical zoom (which allows you to shoot everything from wide-point to fax pictures) and a flip-up LCD screen for a simple survey.
Bluetooth and WiFi network let you move pictures without any problem. While this camera can shoot up to 1080p full HD 1080p video, users say it’s a more qualified camera to capture any kind of pictures.
Pictures would then be able to be handily shipped off the associated cell phone or tablet, and from that point shared on most loved web-based media destinations.
Intended for straightforward, tranquil activity with simple to use capacity for both still symbolism and video, accommodation is expanded if you pick from among 18 scene modes or utilizing the Easy Auto Mode, which consequently enhances the camera’s settings even while shooting under testing lighting conditions.
The 16MP 1/2.3″ BSI CMOS sensor highlights stacked rear enlightened innovation to improve its low-light capacities.
7.4 fps of constant shooting is conceivable alongside an ISO scope of 125-6400. The B500 has a 40x NIKKOR ED VR long range focal point with a central length scope of 4.0-160mm, giving a 35mm likelihood of 22.5-900mm, which covers wide-point to fax shots with the greatest opening scope of f/3.0-6.5.
Pros of COOLPIX B500:
- 16MP – 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS Sensor
- Optical Image Stabilization
- 7.4 fps continuous shooting
- Full HD 1080p video
- 3-inch Tilting Screen
- Long Battery Life
Cons of COOLPIX B500:
- Lacks manual exposure control
12. Canon EOS Rebel SL2 DSLR Camera
Notwithstanding the little size of this camera under 500, it can truly dazzle you. The SL2 allows users to take top-notch photographs with shocking shading multiplication and a resolution of 24.2 megapixels.
Such attributes mean you can without much of a stretch make pleasant photographs for your family collection, Facebook, Instagram, prints of enormous organization, and online exhibitions.
This camera has a DIGIC 7 processor so even poor lighting conditions won’t keep you from taking great pictures. It is an ideal decision for fledgelings and voyagers that you can purchase at a sensible cost.
The EOS Rebel SL2 camera includes an optical viewfinder to assist you with making your pictures, particularly in brilliant daylight that can make it hard to successfully utilize the LCD screen. The optical viewfinder likewise allows you to utilize the camera’s fast self-adjust to catch emotional developments and activity.
The simple access Wi-Fi button permits you to quickly set up your Wi-Fi association. NFC and Bluetooth are likewise worked in to give you a lot of choices to interface with your viable cell phone or offer your most loved photographs and video rapidly and effectively on different gadgets.
Pros of EOS Rebel SL2:
- Small and light
- 24MP APS-C image sensor
- Microphone input
- Dual Pixel AF in Live View
- Vari-angle touch LCD
- Guided user interface
- 3-inch articulated screen
Cons of EOS Rebel SL2:
- No Image Stabilization
13. Sony DSC-HX400 Digital Camera
Undoubtedly Sony is one of the remarkable camera brands in the market. The Sony DSC-HX400 is a stunning camera with full HD video as well as simple to use. Featuring a huge load of highlights into its small bundle, it’s outstanding amongst other explored cameras on the lookout for under $500.
The camera conveys 20.4 MP pictures, with 50x optical zoom for itemization, consistent with life transmission. Sony’s inherent white equilibrium modes naturally adapt to various lighting conditions so nothing at any point watches smothered or yellow.
The camera’s “burst mode” allows you to catch up to 10 shots at 10 edges each second, for when you’re taking photographs in a quick climate.
In case you’re hoping to shoot a video, this is a strong camera to add to your unit. Sony’s “superior quality film mode” gets you 1080p film and allows you to record with two-channel Dolby Digital sound (a benchmark in the entertainment world).
The camera will likewise effectively settle your shot, to dispense with any shaking or vibration that could prompt hazy clasps. This bundle accompanies an AC connector, camera tie, miniature USB link, battery-powered battery and a one-year restricted parts and work guarantee.
Pros of Sony DSC-HX400:
- 10 fps continuous shooting
- Electronic viewfinder
- Articulating Screen
- Built-in GPS
- External Microphone Port
- Full HD Video
Cons of Sony DSC-HX400:
- No Environmental Sealing
14. GoPro Hero 7 Camera
GoPro HERO7 is an ideal camera for underwater video recording. Its arrangement of highlights permits you to record high-level under-water recordings just as you take incredible travel pictures. So this is the best camera under 500, showing clear and smooth outcomes.
It can record 8x sluggish movement and time travel recordings. Additionally, live streaming is one of the principal benefits that YouTube bloggers love the most. At the end of the day, having the GoPro HERO7 you may in a flash impart your limited encounters to your adherents.
I would also like to state that this is an extraordinary camera which makes it different from other cameras under 500 dollars.
Its water-safe body ensures viable work at a profundity up to 33 feet (10 meters). A touch screen and voice control are two additional highlights that are truly useful for valiant pilgrims, making it the best camera under 500. At last, because of its instinctive menu, the camera is easy to use.
Pros of GoPro Hero 7:
- Great image quality
- Simple to use
- Waterproof body
- Useful UI improvements
- Smooth video stabilization
- Live streaming mode
- Full HD 1080p Video
Cons of GoPro Hero 7:
- Short battery life
15. Panasonic Lumix G7 Digital Camera
Panasonic LUMIX DMC-G7 is one of the best micro four-thirds cameras. It consolidates shocking 4K video, high-resolution photographs and a large group of new highlights to help anybody catch their inventive vision simpler than at any other time.
Ideal for the beginner photographic artist needing to deliver proficient quality pictures. The 16-megapixel LUMIX DMC-G7 is intended for usability without settling on execution.
The new 4K Photo permits you to trim individual casings from 4K video film, so it does not make any difference anymore on the off chance that you didn’t press the shade at a remarkable perfect time.
The camera has been created to give the greatest portability and adaptability, making the LUMIX DMC-G7 the ideal camera to report exceptional minutes with loved ones, directly through undertakings abroad.
Utilizing 4K Video to catch the ideal photograph Panasonic’s LUMIX G cameras are prestigious for their top-notch video ability and the furthest down the line expansion to the reach is no special case.
The LUMIX DMC-G7 records incredibly smooth, high-resolution 4K video (3840×2160) multiple times. The outcome is perfectly clear film that catches even the most complex subtleties, like individual pieces of turf or stars in the night sky.
The LUMIX DMC-G7 incorporates new imaging innovation that exploits this exceptional 4K video execution to catch 8-megapixel photographs with more precision than any other time in recent memory.
Pros of Panasonic Lumix G7:
- Excellent handgrip
- Speedy performance
- Responsive touchscreen display
- Vari-angle touch LCD
- Superb EVF
- Built-in flash
- Super video quality
Pros of Panasonic Lumix G7:
- Plastic build
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the best camera under 500?
If you are looking for the best camera under 500, then you can pick Canon EOS M100, Nikon D5300, Olympus PEN E-PL9, Panasonic Lumix G7, etc.
2. Which Camera Is the Best cheap?
There are several cameras available in the market at a cheap rate. For example, Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II, Panasonic Lumix G7, Canon PowerShot G7 X Mark II, Nikon D5300, and more.
3. Is Nikon or Canon better?
Nikon and Canon both are dominating the industry. Both have incredible features that help to shoot high-quality photographs. However, there is a little bit of difference between Nikon and Canon in terms of user level. If you are a beginner level photographer, then Nikon will be the perfect choice for you. On the other hand, if you are an expert photographic artist, then you must pick Canon.
4. Is Nikon or Canon cheaper?
Nikon and Canon are playing a significant role in taking stunning photographs. If you consider the budget, then Nikon is cheaper than Canon. That’s why Nikon is a great choice for amateur photographers.
Final Words
We hope this guide has helped you find the best cameras under 500. A spending plan of around $500 might not have been sufficient to get a nice camera a couple of years back. But now it’s currently possible for photographic artists to get astounding cameras at a reasonable price.
