(Dec 04, 2009)
Lori Grunin
Senior Editor
Avid photographers who want full creative control over their images should consider a digital SLR (single-lens reflex) camera. These models offer the advanced features that experienced shooters need, and all of them are compatible with a wide range of interchangeable lenses and accessories. Of course, they're generally more expensive than point-and-shoot cameras, with prices starting at about $600 for the body only. The good news is that if you've already invested in a set of 35mm SLR lenses and accessories, there's a good chance that you'll be able to find a digital SLR body that's compatible with them.
Nikon D5000 (with 18-55mm lens)
Though it falls short in its design, the Nikon D5000 delivers a nice feature set, speedy performance, and great photo quality for the money.
Price: $696.95 - $899.00 (check prices)
Review date: May 8, 2009
Very good
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Canon EOS Rebel T1i (with 18-55mm IS lens)
A solid, slightly better-than-basic dSLR, the Canon EOS Rebel T1i delivers photo quality and performance that adequately compensates for most of its annoyances.
Price: $677.95 - $799.99 (check prices)
Review date: May 1, 2009
Very good
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Canon EOS Rebel XSi (with 18-55mm lens, black)
It doesn't stand out for its feature set or design, but the Canon EOS Rebel XSi delivers on performance and photo quality.
Price: $549.95 - $774.99 (check prices)
Review date: Apr 1, 2008
Very good
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Pentax K200D (with 18-55mm lens)
Pentax's K200D entry-level SLR gives a lot of bang for the buck and has better performance than last year's model. Despite low noise and pleasingly detailed images, technically inaccurate colors keep it from capturing the gold medal for image quality.
Price: $709.48 (check prices)
Review date: Apr 28, 2008
Very good
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Nikon D3000 (with 18mm-55mm lens)
Its feature set is basic even by entry-level standards, but the Nikon D3000 delivers the photo quality and performance you expect when stepping up to a dSLR, with an optional interface that's very beginner friendly.
Price: $469.99 - $593.99 (check prices)
Review date: Sep 24, 2009
Very good
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Pentax K2000 (with 18-55mm lens and AF200FG flash)
Speedy performance lifts the Pentax K2000 above the cheap-dSLR masses, but bad default settings make it an iffy choice for newbies.
Price: $644.60 (check prices)
Review date: Jun 8, 2009
Very good
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Olympus E-620 (with 14-42mm lens)
While it's a solid budget dSLR with good photo quality and a host of advanced features, the Olympus E-620 still falls behind the competition on most counts.
Price: $649.00 - $699.99 (check prices)
Review date: May 28, 2009
Very good
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Canon Rebel XS (black, with 18-55mm lens)
The Canon EOS Rebel XS is a good entry-level dSLR, but only its photo quality stands out among the competition.
Price: $449.95 - $569.99 (check prices)
Review date: Aug 14, 2008
Very good
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Sony Alpha DSLR-A230 (with 18-55mm lens)
The Sony Alpha DSLR-A230 is a solid entry-level dSLR that will surely have its fans, and it's a better deal than its slightly higher-end sibling, the A330.
Price: $429.95 - $530.62 (check prices)
Review date: Jul 16, 2009
Very good
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Sony Alpha DSLR-A330 (black, with 18-55mm lens)
The Sony Alpha DSLR-A330 is a solid entry-level dSLR that will surely have its fans, but unless you really want Live View, its cheaper sibling, the A230, is a better deal.
Price: $539.95 - $599.95 (check prices)
Review date: Jul 16, 2009
Very good
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