Identifying the best DSLR cameras is a straightforward task due to the limited annual production of new models. These recently released cameras are thoroughly reviewed and ranked by industry experts. Additionally, older models, having been well-used and tested, are now available at reasonable prices. Whether your focus lies in landscape or street photography, sports or wildlife shooting, vlogging, or serious videography, there’s a DSLR tailored to your needs. To simplify your decision-making process, we’ve compiled a list of top-rated models in this article. Our reviews aim to assist you in selecting the most suitable DSLR for your photography requirements.
List – Top 10 Best DSLR Cameras Of 2024
| 1 | Nikon D850 – Best DSLR camera for still photography |
| 2 | Canon EOS 5D Mark IV – The best all-around DSLR camera |
| 3 | Nikon D780 – The best DSLR camera for video |
| 4 | Nikon D500 – Best DSLR camera for sports and wildlife |
| 5 | Nikon D750 – Best DSLR camera for wedding and event photography |
| 6 | Canon EOS 90D – Best mid-range all-rounder DSLR |
| 7 | Nikon D7500 – Best affordable DSLR for video and low-light photography |
| 8 | Canon EOS Rebel SL3/250D – Best compact DSLR for Vloggers |
| 9 | Nikon D3500 – Best budget DSLR for beginners |
| 10 | Canon EOS Rebel T7i – Best beginner DSLR camera for landscape photography |
Mirrorless cameras take the lead in videography, while DSLRs, revered for photography, maintain a dedicated user following who values their comfortable grips, well-balanced bodies, traditional optical viewfinders, and longer battery life. Although DSLR innovation has reached a plateau, market stability has prompted price reductions, presenting affordable options under $1000 and even below $500. The broader and more established lens selection continues to be a distinctive advantage, especially for professionals prioritizing lenses over camera types. Enthusiasts and beginners find DSLRs to be versatile and cost-effective, making them ideal for those transitioning from smartphones or point-and-shoot cameras. In catering to professionals seeking advanced features, recent DSLR models offer superb 4K and integrate mirrorless technology such as on-sensor phase-detect autofocus. Their bigger, bulkier bodies not only enhance the photographer’s professional image but also accommodate large sensors, contributing to their appeal in the market.
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Best DSLR Cameras – Reviews
1. Nikon D850
Sensor: Full frame CMOS Sensor | Megapixels: 45.7 MP | Resolution: 8256 x 5504 |Autofocus: 153-point AF |Screen Type: 3.2-inch diagonal tilted touch screen | Burst Speed: 7fps |Video Resolution: 4K |Viewfinder: Pentapris| User Level: Professional/Expert
This High-resolution camera is still at the top of the list due to its versatile features and excellent performance. With a sensor of 45.7 MP, the Nikon D850 is still one of the top trending DSLR cameras in the current market. It has a native ISO sensitivity range of 64-25,600, with an upgraded 181,000-pixel RGB metering system. At the same time, ISO can be boosted up to 102,400. The advanced 153-point autofocus system of the camera can also capture 7 fps and can shoot 9 fps with a firm grip battery.
Apart from this, this best Nikon camera has become the first Nikon DSLR camera to shoot 4K video. It can cover a bitrate of about 144 Mbps at 30 or 24p. Battery life can quickly get you around 1200 stills, and for video, it can last up to 1 hour. However, its autofocus performance is not that good for video, but auto-tracking is still one of the best you can get in DSLRs. And if you are into static videography and want full-frame capability, then you can’t go wrong with Nikon D850.
The physically weather-sealed camera can fulfill any photography need, varying from landscape to astrophotography and wildlife to sports. This all-rounder camera has a 3.2-titted touch screen. Moreover, its adaption down to -4 EV makes the autofocus system more functional in low-light situations. It makes it the best shooter for studios, and it can be a better option for astrophotography. It has been described as the best DSLR ever produced. And if you are a pure stills photographer and want a camera that can deliver the best landscape photography, then the Nikon D850 is for you.
2. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV
Sensor: CMOS | Megapixels: 30.4 MP | Resolution: 6720 × 4480 |Autofocus: 61-points |Screen Type: Touch Screen | Burst Speed: 7fps |Video Resolution: 4,096 x 2,160 |Viewfinder: Optical Pentaprism | User Level: Professional/Expert
With pretty much improvement in every element of 5D Mark III, Canon launched Canon EOS 5D Mark IV in 2016. Although many new cameras have been launched since then, still 5D Mark IV still remains at the top list of best DSLR cameras due to its competing features. In fact, it is the first one in the Canon 5D line to record in 4K and it wouldn’t be wrong to call it the best Canon video camera apart from Canon Mirrorless cameras. The camera has an excellent sensor with a resolution of 30.4 MP, and improved noise and dynamic range. It is designed to appeal to professionals with its upgraded Autofocus System and 4K video capture. On our list of the best DSLR cameras, we recommend this Canon camera as the best Canon camera for professional photography. The LCD is an easy-to-use touchscreen with improved weather sealing.
Further, it has built-in WI-FI, NFC, and GPS connectivity. It is the first to be among Canon DSLR full-frame cameras that can continuously focus in Live View and can capture during the Live View. The ISO sensitivity of the camera is between 100-32000. If you want an outstanding stills camera that shoots excellent 4K with continuous autofocus, this best Canon DSLR camera is an ideal choice.
3. Nikon D780
Sensor: CMOS | Megapixels: 24.4 MP | Resolution: 6048 x 4024 |Autofocus: 51-point |Screen Type: Tilting touchscreen | Burst Speed: 7 fps |Video Resolution: 3840 x 2160 |Viewfinder: Optical Pentaprism |User Level: Professional/Expert
With the unique feature of on-sensor hybrid AF, the D780 is the first Nikon DSLR to share this feature of mirrorless cameras. It is among the most popular and best DSLR cameras nowadays and is a competitive alternative to its rival cameras. Like other trending Nikon DSLR Cameras, it has a 24-megapixel resolution and fast live-view autofocus. It is also a better option for a 4K video shoot. The burst shot speed of D780 can be enhanced to 12 fps in ‘Silent live view’ using the e-shutter but for 12-bit RAW only. The focus system is 51 points and an easy-to-use viewfinder with fast capturing capability. EXPEED 6 processor of the camera helps to handle the data faster and gives improved quality images. It has a high-resolution tilting touch screen, which allows wider 90 % vertical and horizontal coverage.
At the same time, D780 can give high-quality videos, even 4K with no crop, so it is preferable for those who want the best DSLR for video making. The ISO range for D780 lies between 100-51,200, and it can be expandable to 204,800. Besides, it has dual memory card slots and impressive battery performance that is capable of 2260 shots. Furthermore, the camera can be controlled remotely by using Bluetooth/Wi-Fi or the Nikon Snapbridge app. Its solid design also provides a comfortable grip during shooting. If you are into events and wedding photography and want a DSLR video camera that can shoot quality uncropped 4K, this Nikon DSLR camera is the best all-around camera choice.
4. Nikon D500
Sensor: CMOS (APS-C) | Megapixels: 20.7 MP | Resolution: |Autofocus: 153-point AF |Screen Type: Tilting Touchscreen | Burst Speed: 10 fps |Video Resolution: |Viewfinder: Pentaprism | User Level: Professional/Expert
The Nikon D500 is another beautiful creation with a 21 MP APS-C sensor. It is capable of shooting up to 10fps with a featured autofocus system. The 153-point AF allows full-width coverage. Another significant feature of the D500 is that it can shoot 4K videos. The viewfinder is outstanding, but the live-view shooting is not that incredible. Regardless of its APS-C sensor, it has high ISO performance with a range of 100-51200. Simultaneously, the EXPEED 5 image processor is fast, and it can handle fast continuous shooting. It has much-improved features in comparison to older versions such as Nikon D300S. Despite built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, it also has a Snapbridge system. However, it does not have a built-in flash. In comparison to other models such as the D7200, the D500 is larger and heavier. But still, if you want a fast camera for sports and wildlife photography, it is one of the best-cropped censor DSLR cameras that you can consider in 2024.
5. Nikon D750
Sensor: CMOS | Megapixels: 24.3 MP | Resolution: 6016 x 4016 |Autofocus: 51-points |Screen Type: Tilting | Burst Speed: 6.5 fps |Video Resolution: 1280×720 |Viewfinder: Pentaprism | User Level: Professional/Expert
It is a full-frame camera with a 24.3 MP CMOS sensor. Therefore, it would be a better choice for any photographer willing to switch from an APS-C Sensor to a full frame. It has a processing engine of EXPEED 4 with a native ISO sensitivity range of 100-12,800. Besides, it can extend the ISO to 50-51,200, which can be considered an excellent range to compete with other top DLSR cameras on the list. However, its burst shoot speed is 6.5 fps, as there are cameras with faster shooting speeds. Simultaneously, the good news is that the autofocus system of the D750 has 51 points, making it useful for professionals who are willing to add an extender with their telephoto lens. Thus, you can rely on D750 for fantastic photography, but the video capability is limited to 1080p, and it can record a max of 60 frames per second.
Besides, the ergonomics of the camera are fantastic. It has remained compact and lightweight, with a firm grip and comfortable buttons for prolonged use. The LCD can tilt at different angles. It has a built-in flash. Furthermore, the built-in Wi-Fi also allows the camera to be controlled remotely with a smartphone’s help. Also, the battery life is capable of 1230 shots. Therefore, the performance of the camera is still compelling in 2024. Nikon D750 is the best budget full-frame DSLR camera you can get, and it is an excellent camera for weddings and event photography.
6. Canon EOS 90D
Sensor: CMOS | Megapixels: 32.5 MP | Resolution: 6,960 x 4,640 |Autofocus: 45-point AF |Screen Type: Fully articulating touchscreen | Burst Speed: 7 fps |Video Resolution: 3840 x 2160 |Viewfinder: Optical Pentaprism | User level: Intermediate/Enthusiast
Canon EOS 90D, A mid-range best semi-pro DSLR camera with a higher resolution sensor is also among the latest trends and one of the best DSLR cameras in the global market. With raw image quality, Canon EOS 90D also offers 4k video capture and modest live view AF. It has an APS-CMOS Sensor of 32.5 Megapixels with dual pixel autofocus. This model’s viewfinder is 45-point AF and capable of burst shooting with a speed of 7fps continuously. Further, it has a fully articulating touchscreen display that makes it more convenient. It may look like its predecessors in physical outlook and can be an easy thing to use for users of Canon EOS 80 D. With a similar viewfinder and LCD screen, 90D is easy to operate.
When it is assessed for its image quality, it would not be wrong to say that the 90D currently has the highest resolution among all Canon series. Further, the native ISO range is 100 to 25,600, which is fair enough to compete with its rivals in the market. For video making, it offers a 4K shoot with no crop. However, it has no in-body stabilization feature that could irritate you when you are capturing a sudden scene. Overall, it is a great all-around camera that can capture high-quality photos and high-resolution videos.
7. Nikon D7500
Sensor: CMOS | Megapixels: 20 MP | Resolution: 5568 x 3712 |Autofocus: 51-point |Screen Type: Tilting touchscreen | Burst Speed: 8 fps |Video Resolution: 3,840 x 2,160 |Viewfinder: Pentaprism | User level: Intermediate/Enthusiast
Nikon D7500 is another outstanding DX-format DSLR camera for amateurs and enthusiasts, with a reduced sensor resolution of 20 MP by Nikon. Irrespective of the resolution, it still makes it to the best DSLR cameras because the D7500 gives impressive image results through a better combination of efficient processors and sensors. Simultaneously, some advanced features are also added to the camera, such as a fully articulating tilted touchscreen that can help shoot at different angles. The autofocus system of D7500 is also reliable, and the burst shoot speed is quite fast at 8 fps. Other than these, it has a built-in flash, Wi-Fi, NCF, Bluetooth, and GPS connection. Therefore, it can be said that it would not disappoint modern photographers. With a Focus of 51- points, the D7500 has a wide range of ISO sensitivity varying from 100 to 51,200. With an average battery life, it is capable of shooting 950 shots.
Further, it has appreciable ergonomic and menu-related touches that would allow the user to switch from Auto ISO to Manual ISO. It is built with quality in comparison to its predecessors. It is lighter in weight and has a carbon fiber frame. Moreover, weather-sealing features guarantee protection from dust and water. Overall, the D7500 is an ideal option for shooting video and for its low-light image quality. Its speed and low-light performance compensate for the lower sensor resolution.
8. Canon EOS Rebel SL3/250D
Sensor: CMOS (APS-C) | Megapixels: 24 MP | Resolution: 5328 x 4000 |Autofocus: 9-points AF |Screen Type: Fully Articulating Rear Touchscreen | Burst Speed: 5 fps |Video Resolution: 3840 x 2160 |Viewfinder: Optical Pentamirror | User level: Beginner/Entry-level
It is an ultra-compact camera with an APS-C sensor camera of a 24 MP resolution. This best APS-C camera has an accurate and user-friendly Dual Pixel autofocus. It has a user guide like the Canon Rebel T7i, which can help beginners get used to the camera. At the same time, the image result of Rebel SL3 is outstanding. It is also capable of 4K videos cropped.
Moreover, the fully articulating rear touchscreen makes it fun to use. It is small in size with excellent battery life and solid performance. It is considered the lightest DSLR with a tilting screen in the world. The ISO sensitivity ranges from 100 to 25,600, a better range just like all the other best DSLR cameras on the list. However, the viewfinder is not up to the mark in the current market because it offers a 9-point autofocus system that is very basic. At the same time, the Live View autofocus is much better.
Furthermore, it has a Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connection, which offers image transfer and remote control through a camera. However, it has a single slot for a memory card. Though the Canon EOS Rebel SL3 has some limited features unlike other Canon DSLR cameras on the list, its performance, battery life, and lightweight make it a better beginner DSLR choice even in 2024.
9. Nikon D3500
Sensor: CMOS | Megapixels: 24.2 MP | Resolution: 6,000 × 4,000 pixels |Autofocus: 11 AF points |Screen Type: Fixed Screen | Burst Speed: 5 fps |Video Resolution: 1920 × 1080 |Viewfinder: Pentamirror | User level: Beginner/Entry-level
Like Canon, Nikon also offers better choices for its entry-level users. Nikon D3500, with its guide mode, can be helpful for all those interested in photography but who don’t know much about cameras. This best Nikon DSLR for beginners has arrived with updated specifications in the market and can be considered an improved version of its predecessors. It is an excellent package of image quality, lightweight, and advanced menu system for an affordable price. If you don’t mind buying used cameras you can buy them at a cheap price under 500 $.
It has a 24.2-megapixel sensor with an image processor of EXPEED 4. With the capability of 5fps non-stop shooting speed, Nikon D3500 secures its position among the best DSLR cameras around the world. The camera’s viewfinder feature is 11 AF points with the capability to cluster in the middle of the frame. Battery life is much improved as compared to D3400. D3500 can take 1550 shots on a single charge. The native ISO sensitivity range of D3500 is 100 to 25,600. However, it lacks some advanced-level features in comparison to its rivals in the market. It has a fixed rear LCD that limits the camera from shooting at awkward angles. Moreover, its Optical viewfinder is also small compared to high-end cameras in the market. Regardless of some missing features, this best Nikon camera for beginners is an outstanding option and the best DSLR camera for beginners who want to shoot sports and want fantastic battery life.
10. Canon EOS Rebel T7i
Sensor: CMOS (APS-C) | Megapixels: 24MP | Resolution: 6000 x 4000 |Autofocus: 45-point |Screen Type: Fully articulated Touch screen | Burst Speed: 6fps |Video Resolution: 1920 x 1080 |Viewfinder: Optical Pentaprism | User level: Beginner
Canon EOS Rebel T7i is another best Canon camera for beginners. Maintaining the resolution of 24 MP, the T7i has an upgraded sensor with a Dual Pixel AF system, which has a better autofocus capability in live view mode and video making. No matter how old the Rebel T7i is, still a better choice for all types of photographers due to its enhanced performance, affordable price, and outstanding features. Likely, the 45-AF points viewfinder allows getting through horizontal and vertical sensitivities. The optical viewfinder of the camera is pentamirror but a little dimmer. It is user-friendly with its new guide mode, which helps new users use the camera by highlighting photographic techniques. T7i also possesses advanced features such as built-in Wi-Fi, Android, or iOS devices as a remote control, Bluetooth connectivity, and Vari-angle touch LCD. The continuous capture rate for the camera is 6fps.
However, it lacks 4K video support, and the camera’s image stabilization feature is also weak. Besides, its ISO sensitivity lies between 100-25600. Therefore, it would not be wrong to say that T7i is introduced for beginners, who can get help from its user interface to adjust the right exposure mode. It has a fully articulated screen that can frame at odd angles and reverse the LCD. However, some professionals consider it as a hinge due to its fragile nature as a fall or knock could rip the LCD off and ruin the camera. Overall, Canon EOS Rebel T7i is the best entry-level DSLR for beginners who want to shoot in low light and are interested in landscape photography.
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Buyers Guide: Things to look for when buying the best DSLR camera
The factors that need to be considered when buying the best DSLR cameras are wholly dependent on what level of photographer you are, and what type of photography you are interested in. Once you have already sorted that out, it’s time to delve into the following factors to consider.
Sensor
You need to look into two aspects of the sensor when buying a DSLR. The sensor size and megapixels. Now sensor size is the reason people prefer DSLRs over compact (point-and-shoot) cameras. Bigger sensors that hold bigger photosites ensure a greater dynamic range and hence ensure better picture quality. While megapixels are only important for professionals who want to print their photos. It’s helpful, especially for wildlife photographers who want to crop their photos to get a closer print of their subject. In other words, it allows good digital zoom.
Another aspect you have to look into is sensor type. Usually, you’ll have to choose between, APS-C and Micro four-thirds or Medium format and full-frame sensors. Now, sensor format varies among different brands but for the simple thumb rule, APS-C and Micro four-thirds come with crop factor and are considered as defacto for beginner cameras while Medium format and Full-frame sensors offer no crop or very little crop and hence are considered defacto for professional cameras.
Brand
The brand is important because It is usually very difficult and costly to change once you get used to it. So, it is better to choose a brand that you find feasible. And that you can decide by seeing how rich the lens line of the brand is, as well as how costly are its other accessories. The most common brands for DSLRs are Nikon and Canon, but you’ll find some good DSLRs from Pentax as well. These brands usually offer limited compatibility outside their brand but you can use their DSLR lenses on their mirrorless cameras from the same brand with an adopter. But it will certainly cost you more. It is also important to see how much compatibility the brand offers with third-party accessories like microphones and flashlights.
Battery life
Battery life is one aspect that makes DSLRs superior to mirrorless cameras. The best DSLR cameras come with excellent battery life and it is indicated by shots per charge or video hours per charge. So make sure your best DSLR camera comes with good battery life especially if you want to shoot for long hours.
Autofocus
Conventionally, most DSLRs use phase detection. In phase detection, the camera employs several fixed autofocus points to focus on the subject. The greater the number of AF points the faster and more precise the autofocus is.
Some DSLRs now also use contrast detection which was until recently only used in mirrorless and point-and-shoot cameras. This type of focusing is sensor-based and the more advanced type.
Now both types work great. And it is advisable to have either one instead of having none. Autofocus is important because it makes shooting easier where your subject needs fast-tracking for instance while shooting fast-moving subjects in sports or while shooting wildlife.
Image stabilization
Another very important factor to consider, for sports and wildlife photography, in particular, but also very important for street and travel photographers as well. DSLRs use two types of image stabilization, sensor-shift image stabilization, and lens-shift image stabilization.
Sensor shift-type also called in-body image stabilization is ideal as it stabilizes any lens footage. But lens-based stabilization is considered more specialized as being specifically tailored and lens-specific.
Viewfinder and Monitor
Most DSLR cameras use an optical viewfinder with either a pentaprism or pentamirror design. Pentaprism is the more traditional component when compared to pentamirror and hence slightly bigger and heavier, while pentamirror on the other hand comes with a slightly darker viewable image on the viewfinder. High-end DSLRs usually use pentaprism while most entry-level DSLRs use pentamirror to lose weight.
One more thing to consider in the viewfinder is its frame coverage, which usually comes in the range of 95 to 100%. 100% is ideal since lesser coverage means you’d lose some portion of the image.
Monitor
Most DSLR cameras now come with rear monitors that can be 3 inches in size and even bigger in some models. A bigger screen usually looks better but what matters the most is its resolution. You can easily find DSLR screens with resolutions up to over one million dots. The higher it is the sharper the image will be on the screen. So always ensure that the bigger monitor you choose is backed by a higher resolution because it’s no use to have a bigger screen that’s dull.
Some DSLRs also use touch monitors. These monitors come with touch screens that allow menu navigation and autofocus on the screen, which can be quite intuitive than working with multiple wheels and dials.
Another aspect that is important to look into, especially if you are a Vlogger or pro videographer, is the tilting or swiveling design of the screen. Some DSLR cameras now even come with fully articulating touch screens that really add up to the multiple angles shooting capability of your camera.
Video
Most DSLRs are capable of shooting 1080p, while some high-end cameras can now shoot in 4K or even higher. Where 4K is becoming popular 1080p is commonly used for its vivid playback and rich editing capabilities. Another aspect to look into is your HDMI output, if you are interested in linking your DSLR to HDTV for full-quality playback, you’ll need a clean HDMI.
Remember, for videographers audio capability becomes as important as their camera’s video capability itself. So always check if your DSLR supports an external microphone, in case it doesn’t come with a good quality internal microphone.
Manual controls
Auto controls are helpful when you are just starting up, but it becomes crucial for your DSLR to possess the full range of exposure adjustments including ISO, aperture, and shutter speed as you grow as a photographer. Manual adjustments allow you to master full control over your photography and it plays an important role in your photography style and skills development.
People Also Ask
Are DSLR prices more affordable now?
Yes, DSLR prices have been reduced in recent years to compete with cheaper mirrorless options. There are now more choices of the budget DSLR cameras under $1000 and $500.
Can DSLRs shoot high-quality videos?
Yes, DSLRs have evolved to offer excellent video capabilities, especially the newer models. Some advanced DSLRs now feature 4K video resolution and even incorporate mirrorless technology for on-sensor phase-detect autofocus.
Is lens selection better with DSLRs?
Yes, the best DSLR cameras offer a more established and wider lens selection compared to mirrorless cameras. This makes them a preferred choice for professionals and enthusiasts who value lens options.
Which DSLR camera is ideal for wedding and event photography?
The Nikon D750 is the best DSLR camera for wedding and event photography. It offers high ISO performance, no crop factor, improved lower light performance, and increased dynamic range.
What makes the Nikon D780 the best DSLR camera for video?
The Nikon D780 stands out as a DSLR camera for video due to its on-sensor hybrid AF, allowing for improved autofocus performance. It offers uncropped 4K video shooting, dual memory card slots, and impressive battery life. It is a great choice for events and wedding photography.
Final Thoughts
Even though the crown for the best DSLR camera goes to the Nikon D850, it has been the best camera for professional photography for quite some time now and remains the photographers’ favorite. But there is never an absolute best in the camera world. Some cameras are best for still photographers, and some are best for videographers. Some are all-rounders, but then again, you can always find a specialized camera that beats them in either stills or videography. And that is how the camera marketing world works.
That’s why in our list of best DSLR cameras, we have included the top choices for all users of all levels. And we have also made sure that we list the best DSLR cameras from the market for you. Whether they are the full-frame or cropped sensor, whether they are expensive, midrange, or budget DSLRs, new or older ones, we have addressed them all for you. And we are pretty sure that when you are reading this, you’ve already made your choice by now. Congratulations!
