The Best Cheap Cameras (2024) January: capture memories

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The best cheap cameras offer outstanding value if you’re looking for a first camera or an upgrade that won’t empty your wallet. These cameras are reasonably priced without sacrificing quality. They’re also great if you don’t require the most newest and cutting-edge camera technology. Don’t let a lack of funds prevent you from pursuing photography.

Everyone’s budget will be different in these difficult economic times, but no matter what yours is, you’ll discover amazing cameras to meet your demands and specific expectations. Some of these cameras were originally much more expensive than they are now, and they are only cheaper now because their technology is slightly antiquated. There are also some new cameras that have been developed to provide the most functions for the least amount of money and succeed spectacularly.

Why look for Cheap Cameras?

People might look for cheap cams for a number of reasons:

• Budget Limits: Not everyone can buy high-end, expensive cameras. Cheap cameras are a good way for beginners or casual users to get into shooting on a budget.
• Casual Photography: People who only take pictures rarely and don’t need professional-level features can use a cheap camera to capture memories and everyday moments.
• Learning and practicing: People who are new to photography often start with cheaper cameras to learn the basics and figure out what they like before they buy more expensive gear.
• Travel and Portability: Cheap, small cameras are great for traveling because they are light and easy to bring along.

Best Cheap Cameras Comparison Table

Even if lower-priced cameras may not have the same number of innovative features or the same level of image quality as higher-priced models, they are nevertheless able to fulfill a variety of needs and make taking photographs pleasurable for a large number of people.

Feature	Sensor Size	Megapixels	ISO Range	LCD Screen Size	Video Recording	Weight (Body Only)	Battery Life (CIPA)	Latest Deal
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV	Micro Four Thirds	20.3 MP	200 – 25600 (expandable)	3.0 inches	4K (up to 30 fps)	383 g	Approx. 360 shots	Check Deal
Canon EOS RP	Full Frame	26.2 MP	100 – 40000	3.0 inches	4K (up to 24 fps)	485 g	Approx. 250 shots	Check Deal
Sony Alpha A6000	APS-C	24.3 MP	100 – 25600	3.0 inches	Full HD (up to 60 fps)	344 g	Approx. 360 shots	Check Deal
Fujifilm Instax Mini 12	Instax instant film	Instax instant film	Fixed ISO (Usually around ISO 800)	No LCD screen on Instax cameras	Instax cameras do not record videos)	Approximately 307g	Operates on replaceable AA batteries; the number of shots per battery set varies based on usage	Check Deal
Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-W830	1/2.3-inch	20.1 MP	80 – 3200	2.7 inches	HD (720p)	120 g	Approx. 210 shots	Check Deal

Here is the list of Best Cheap Cameras

However, if you want to buy new, you’ll need to find one that has proclaimed the model’s impending extinction. When it comes to camera features, the concept of diminishing returns is undeniably present. If you’re just starting out, you generally don’t need the highest dynamic range, video features, weather-proofing, or fast shutter FPS speeds. Let us begin with the best cheap Cameras listed below.

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

Specification	Details
Camera Type	Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens
Sensor Resolution	20.3 Megapixels
Image Processor	TruePic VIII
ISO Range	200 – 25600 (expandable to 100)
Continuous Shooting	Up to 15 fps
Video Recording	4K UHD at 30p, Full HD at 60p
Viewfinder	2.36M-dot OLED electronic viewfinder

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is a compact and lightweight mirrorless camera that is an excellent choice for novice photographers as well as photography enthusiasts. It has a Micro Four Thirds sensor with 20.3 megapixels, continuous shooting at 15 frames per second, the ability to capture 4K video, and a rich feature set. Additionally, the E-M10 IV features an in-body image stabilization mechanism that works well for both still photography and video recording.

The autofocus technology of the camera is decent, although it is not the finest available for its category. It sometimes has trouble keeping up with moving targets, particularly when the lighting is poor. However, the image quality of the E-M10 IV is exceptional across the board. It creates images that are crisp and detailed, with a good dynamic range and low noise levels.

Canon EOS RP

Specification	Details
Camera Type	Full-Frame Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens
Sensor Resolution	26.2 Megapixels
Image Processor	DIGIC 8
ISO Range	100 – 40000 (expandable to 50 – 102400)
Continuous Shooting	Up to 5 fps
Video Recording	4K UHD at 24p, Full HD at 60p
Viewfinder	2.36M-dot OLED electronic viewfinder

The EOS RP is equipped with a full-frame CMOS sensor that is 26.2 megapixels in resolution and a DIGIC 8 image processor. Continuous shooting is supported at up to 5 frames per second, and the camera has a native sensitivity range that extends from 100 to 25600. A Dual Pixel CMOS autofocus system with 4779 customizable AF points is included in the camera as well. This method is incredibly quick and accurate, and it performs admirably for both video and still photography.

The EOS RP has a slow motion mode that can capture 1080p video at up to 120 frames per second, and it can also record 4K video at up to 24 frames per second. The camera includes a speaker and a microphone that are integrated right into it, however it does not have a jack for headphones or a port for a microphone.
The EOS RP is a camera that is both compact and lightweight. It weighs 485g with the battery and memory card installed and has dimensions of 129.6 x 77.9 x 54.1 mm. The camera is constructed out of magnesium alloy, and it has a weather-sealing feature that prevents dust and moisture from getting inside.

Sony Alpha A6000

Specification	Details
Camera Type	Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens
Sensor Resolution	24.3 Megapixels
Image Processor	BIONZ X
ISO Range	100 – 25600 (expandable to 51200)
Continuous Shooting	Up to 11 fps
Video Recording	Full HD at 60p
Viewfinder	1.44M-dot OLED electronic viewfinder

The A6000 is a camera that is both compact and light in weight. It has dimensions of 120.1 by 66.9 by 43.7 millimeters and a weight of 344 grams (with the battery and memory card included). The camera is constructed out of magnesium alloy, and it has a weather-sealing feature that prevents dust and moisture from getting inside. The A6000 comes with a wide variety of control options. It comes equipped with a mode dial, a quick control dial, in addition to a variety of buttons and dials that may be adjusted according to your preferences.

The Sony Alpha A6000 is an excellent camera that is suitable for both amateurs and photography aficionados. It provides an excellent balance of features and functionality for the price that it costs. Because of its size and weight, the camera is convenient to carry along with you wherever you go. The autofocus system is extremely quick and precise, contributing to the camera’s superb image quality. The Sony Alpha A6000 is a fantastic choice for those interested in purchasing a high-quality mirrorless camera.

Fujifilm Instax Mini 12

Specification	Details
Camera Type	Instant Film Camera
Picture Size	62mm x 46mm (credit card-sized)
Focusing Range	0.6m – ∞ (macro mode: 0.3m – 0.6m)
Shutter Speed	1/2 sec – 1/250 sec
Viewfinder	Real image finder, 0.37x magnification
Exposure Control	Manual switching system (LED indicator)

The lens of the Mini 12 is fixed, and its performance is satisfactory in the vast majority of everyday photography scenarios. In addition to that, it comes with a built-in flash that can be activated even in dim light. The camera is equipped with a variety of shooting settings, such as a macro mode for taking close-up pictures and a landscape option for taking pictures with a wider field of view.

Instant photographs of 2.4 by 1.8 inches can be produced by using the Mini 12 camera. The photographs have a slightly sepia-toned appearance, which lends them an air of antiquity. The images are generally well-exposed, and the colors have a lively quality to them. The Mini 12 is an instant camera that is entertaining to use, simple to operate, and delivers photographs that look fantastic. It is an excellent option for someone who wants to be able to take pictures on the go without having to bother about sophisticated settings, as this camera offers that capability.

Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-W830

Specification	Details
Camera Type	Compact Point-and-Shoot
Sensor Resolution	20.1 Megapixels
Optical Zoom	8x
Image Stabilization	Optical SteadyShot
ISO Range	80 – 3200 (expandable to 3200)
Continuous Shooting	Up to 0.8 fps
Video Recording	HD (720p) at 30p

Easily one of the best Cheap Cameras available on the market, The Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-W830 is a little camera that offers cutting-edge functionality and respectable photo quality without breaking the bank. This 20-megapixel camera’s 8x optical zoom and 2.7-inch LCD screen allow you to snap beautiful photographs from a distance with high levels of detail without cropping. In comparison other cameras, this one receives few complaints from users have used it frequently throughout time.

The majority of users discover that it captures excellent photographs with no effort. It’s an easy-to-use camera that fits neatly in your pocket, with an 8x optical zoom, 20.1MP photos, and stunning HD movies. Photographs stay clearer even when taken with shaking hands thanks to optical steady shot image stabilization.

Nikon D3500

Specification	Details
Camera Type	DSLR
Sensor Resolution	24.2 Megapixels
Image Processor	EXPEED 4
ISO Range	100 – 25600
Continuous Shooting	Up to 5 fps
Video Recording	Full HD at 60p
Viewfinder	Optical viewfinder with 0.85x magnification

In place of the incredibly successful and popular Nikon D3400, the Nikon D3500 has carried the DSLR torch into the mirrorless era. DSLRs continue to offer better value than mirrorless cameras due to their optical viewfinders, and the Nikon D3500 remains the best entry-level camera on a budget.

A better APS-C sensor and a battery life of 1,550 frames per charge, vs the D3400’s already excellent 1,200 shots per charge, are two substantial improvements over the previous D3400. You also get a stronger grip and a little lighter body that has been changed. The D3500 is a little more user-friendly, especially if you want to utilize longer lenses with it, but it is also vital to examine mirrorless alternatives to the Sony A6000.

Panasonic Lumix GX85 / GX80

Specification	Details
Camera Type	Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens
Sensor Resolution	16.0 Megapixels
Image Processor	Venus Engine
ISO Range	200 – 25600
Continuous Shooting	Up to 8 fps
Video Recording	4K UHD at 30p, Full HD at 60p
In-Body Image Stabilization	5-axis Dual IS

The tiny GX85 (GX80 in some places) features an older 16MP Micro-Four-Thirds sensor that nonetheless delivers amazing images and can record 4K video. The built-in electronic viewfinder (amazing for a mirrorless camera at this price) makes it a terrific choice for usage in bright sunlight or darker conditions, and the tilting screen makes shooting from ground level straightforward.

This makes it excellent for travel or vacations, especially when used in conjunction with Panasonic’s tiny Micro Four Thirds lenses. The only option to get this great little camera these days appears to be as part of a twin-lens combination that also includes the portable Panasonic 45-150mm telephoto lens. Despite the fact that it is a dual lens set, it is an excellent value. Thus, this product is one of the best Cheap Cameras available right now.

Canon EOS Rebel T7 / EOS 2000D

Specification	Details
Camera Type	DSLR
Sensor Resolution	24.1 Megapixels
Image Processor	DIGIC 4+
ISO Range	100 – 6400 (expandable to 12800)
Continuous Shooting	Up to 3 fps
Video Recording	Full HD at 30p
Viewfinder	Optical pentamirror viewfinder

If you want something even more affordable than the Canon EOS M50 Mark II, consider the Canon EOS Rebel T7 / EOS 2000D. It’s a simple camera with a fixed screen that’s significantly heavier than the M50 II, but it has the same simple user interface and feels great in the hand. Because it is a DSLR, it also has a longer battery life than the mirrorless M50 II. The camera has a dependable, high-resolution sensor inside that produces beautiful images, and it is compatible with a wide selection of Canon EF-S and EF lenses.

As your photography skills develop, you may easily upgrade to better lenses, which will vastly improve your images. However, because it only has a maximum burst rate of 3 frames per second and a considerably less advanced AF system than mirrorless rivals like the M50 II, it isn’t the best choice for photographing sports or fast-moving subjects.

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II

Specification	Details
Camera Type	Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens
Sensor Resolution	16.1 Megapixels
Image Processor	TruePic VII
ISO Range	200 – 25600
Continuous Shooting	Up to 8.5 fps
Video Recording	Full HD at 60p
In-Body Image Stabilization	5-axis IS
Viewfinder	2.36M-dot OLED electronic viewfinder

If you want an excellent camera but don’t want to spend a lot of money, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II is a fantastic option. Despite its low price, this micro four thirds sensor camera outperforms the Olympus OM-D E-M10 in terms of form and function. Because of its sturdy feel and the fact that it is made of magnesium alloy, you may anticipate to be able to use it for a very long period in the future.

The camera is also not a brute. The controls are put precisely where they should be, and the interface is streamlined and basic. This makes it easy to move and operate, and it also contributes to its attractive appearance. The E-M10 Mark II’s 5-axis stabilization mechanism outperforms the previous model’s 3-axis system. It can also capture higher-quality video and has a slightly faster burst shooting rate of 8.5 frames per second. Overall, it is one of the best Cheap Cameras that you can buy.

Kodak PixPro AZ421

Specification	Details
Camera Type	Bridge Superzoom
Sensor Resolution	16.2 Megapixels
Optical Zoom	42x
Image Stabilization	Optical Image Stabilization
ISO Range	100 – 3200
Continuous Shooting	Up to 3 fps
Video Recording	HD (720p) at 30p

If you want to go really, really close to a subject on the cheap, the Kodak PixPro AZ421 might be the answer. With a 42X zoom lens on this low-cost camera, which is equivalent to a 24-1008mm lens on a 35mm camera, you should be able to picture wildlife from a distance. The PixPro AZ421 has an ISO range of 80-3200, optical picture stabilization, and a 3.0-inch 460k-dot rear LCD display. There are certain drawbacks: the maximum video resolution is 720p, and the f/stop range is limited to f/3 to f/6.

By gently dragging the camera across your subject while in Panorama mode, you may easily create a 180-degree continuous panorama. Continuous shooting necessitates the use of a normal SD/SDHC memory card with at least Class 4 and a maximum capacity of 32GB. Micro SD, Micro/Adapter, Ultra, Ultra Plus, Extreme, Extreme Plus, Extreme Pro, and SDXC cards are incompatible with the az421.

Kodak PixPro FZ43

Specification	Details
Camera Type	Compact Point-and-Shoot
Sensor Resolution	16.2 Megapixels
Optical Zoom	4x
ISO Range	80 – 1600
Continuous Shooting	Up to 0.7 fps
Video Recording	HD (720p) at 30p
Viewfinder	No viewfinder

If you want to save money and have a camera that can accomplish most tasks, the FZ43 is a good alternative. Expect a 2.7-inch LCD screen, a 4x zoom, and 16MP photos. The FZ43 is powered by two AA batteries, but they don’t last long; after a day of moderate use, ours died.

The FZ43 captured great details and bright but not harsh colour. However, image quality did decline near the longer end of the zoom range, with fine details appearing to be lost in a slight haze at the frame’s border, as is usual with many low-cost cameras. Currently, this is one of the best Cheap Cameras that you can buy right now.

Fujifilm X-T200

Specification	Details
Camera Type	Mirrorless Interchangeable Lens
Sensor Resolution	24.2 Megapixels
Image Processor	APS-C CMOS sensor, Quad-Core X-Processor 4
ISO Range	200 – 12800 (expandable to 100 – 51200)
Continuous Shooting	Up to 8 fps
Video Recording	4K UHD at 30p, Full HD at 60p
In-Body Image Stabilization	3-axis
Viewfinder	2.36M-dot OLED electronic viewfinder

We still like the Fujifilm X-T30, but this more affordable, beginner-friendly variant is our preferred mirrorless alternative for people just starting out in photography or videography. It outperforms the X-T100 in practically every area, including focusing, and features a great 3.5in back touchscreen. Unlike the Fujifilm X-A7, you also get a viewfinder for framing photographs, which is extremely useful when travelling in bright light.

We realized that the visual quality was consistently excellent, and we adored the retro look. The one drawback we discovered throughout our testing was that the subject-tracking can be hit-or-miss during burst shooting and isn’t accessible for video, but otherwise, this is one of the best affordable cameras on the market for those looking for a new mirrorless model.

How to Choose Best Cheap Cameras

To choose the best cheap camera for your shooting needs and budget, you need to think about a few key factors. Here are some steps that will help you make a good choice:

• Define Your Goal: Figure out what the main goal of the camera is. Are you looking for a simple point-and-shoot for casual photography, a mirrorless for better picture quality, or a DSLR for more control? If you know what you want to do, you will have fewer choices.
• Budget: Figure out how much money you can spend on a camera. Make sure you get the most for the money you are ready to spend while you are looking for cheap options.
• Megapixels and Image Quality: Don’t focus too much on just the number of megapixels. Most casual shooting needs can be met with a camera that has between 12 and 20 megapixels. Pay close attention to the size and quality of the image sensor because it has a big effect on the picture quality.
• Zoom and Lenses: If you need a camera that can do a lot of different things, look for one with optical zoom or lenses that can be switched out. The picture quality is better with optical zoom than with digital zoom.

Questions and Answers