You’ve come to the right place if you’re after the best beginner Canon DSLR.

You may have noticed a big shift towards mirrorless technology over recent years, but the traditional DSLR remains a fantastic option for those new to photography – especially if your budget is limited.

We’ve spent hundreds of hours testing every new DSLR over the last decade, which has allowed us to distil our findings into this guide. If you’d like to take a look at a more general guide to the best beginner cameras, then we’ve got a separate guide for that.

Market presence Canon DSLR

It’s been quite some time since a brand new DSLR hit the market, and as such, all of the models featured here have been around for a while. That’s not necessarily a bad thing, as it means you’ll likely get some good deals, and you can also be confident that they’ve been well-tested by reviewers and consumers alike.

That said, if your concerns are for the latest autofocus technology, a more compact form factor and burst shooting which goes beyond 10fps, then you’d do well to look at our guide to the best mirrorless cameras. Otherwise, if you’re keen on long battery lives, optical viewfinders, excellent handling and a great range of compatible lenses, then these budget-friendly classic cameras are certainly worth looking at. 

So, with all that in mind, exactly what is the best beginner DSLR on the market right now? Despite the recent announcement that they’ll no longer be in production, we still think it’s the Nikon D3500. While stock still exists, it’s a great option for those new to photography thanks to its handy ‘Guide Mode’, which walks you through key settings. It also boasts great handling, a diverse range of compatible lenses and most importantly, excellent image quality. 

Alternative options

Alternatives include the similarly-priced Canon EOS Rebel SL3 / 250D / 200D Mark II, which as far as we know is still in production. If you have a slightly bigger budget, you might want to go for the Canon EOS Rebel T8i / Canon EOS 850D, which is one of the newest models here having arrived in 2020.

It’s wise to consider that it’s not just Nikon which is winding down DSLR production. Sony has confirmed that all of its DSLRs are discontinued (no surprise to anyone, considering just how mirrorless focused the company is). Canon has also discontinued its popular 7D line. That’s not to say that the DSLR is completely dead, with both Nikon and Canon offering support for those remaining in the line-up, which includes those suitable for beginners.

Value for Money

Older options, including the Nikon D5600 (discontinued, but still available) and the Canon EOS 80D offer excellent value for money too. While it’s true that they don’t necessarily offer the best and latest technology, they’re still cameras which offer a lot of functionality for the beginner, without costing the earth. 

Considering the type of bargains on offer from DSLRs, we’d also very much expect to see some delicious deals in the run up to and during

How can I choose a suitable beginner Canon DSLR?

There are several factors you should consider before making the ultimate decision. The best camera for a beginner is one with:

1. Higher resolution than your phone’s camera

You must be able to make this judgment after reading the camera’s reviews.

It’s pointless to carry a camera around if it doesn’t produce better-looking images than your phone, or at the very least has functionality that your phone doesn’t.

 2. Ergonomics that are comfortable for your hands

If you can’t physically touch the camera in your local camera store, the basis of your decision is on the reviews you read.

Is it sufficient in size? Is there a stronghold on it?

Do the necessary buttons appear to be spaced far enough apart?

3. The most recent model that fits your budget

Because camera technology is dynamic and rapidly growing, it is best to invest in the most up-to-date cameras.

If your budget doesn’t allow for the most recent model, there are always deals to have around a predecessor.

There’s also the option of purchasing a used camera, albeit this comes with a caveat emptor.

4. Lenses that fit your budget and future demands are available.

This is a consideration for consumers who prefer a camera with interchangeable lenses.

What other options do you have? Are they within your budget?

Are there any focus lengths that you require? Is it possible to buy used lenses?

Other camera features worth evaluating when choosing your camera include; 

• Wireless connectivity
• Built-in flash
• Image stabilization
• Does it support an external microphone?
• Battery life
• Video capabilities
• Modes of shooting especially for creative effects
• RAW file support. 
• Weight

Frequently Asked Questions

What features should a beginner look for in a DSLR?

The successful search for a suitable and beginner-friendly DSLR camera is influenced by three main factors; camera’s screen, compactibility and the options of kit lens. 

If you’ve not attained the pro level in using manual camera settings such as aperture, shutter speed, etc., you should settle for the most compatible camera model.

Which is right for a beginner? DSLR or mirrorless camera.

Mirrorless cameras are often cited as the best option for beginners in the creative career.

They have garnered this position due to their small size and simple-to-use controls.

Additionally, compared to a DSLR you will find more mirrorless cameras with a touchscreen hence bringing the feel of a smartphone camera. 

Final Thoughts

Creative professionals frequently choose Canon cameras looking for the best starter cameras.

Canon has a large selection of interchangeable lens cameras, such as DSLRs and mirrorless cameras, and point-and-shoot cameras that are as practical as they are simple for content creation and vlogging.

If you want to create a variety of different types of material, it’s essential to know that your camera can handle both video and still photography simultaneously.

Fortunately, the majority of the finest cameras for vlogging also have competitive still photography specs.

To discover more about

DSLR or Mirrorless click here

Batteries for Canon Camera click here

Canon for Beginners click here

Vlogging Tips Click here