Best entry-level digital SLR cameras
Canon EOS Rebel T3i (with 18-55mm IS II lens)
For the money, the Canon EOS Rebel T3i is a great choice for dSLR videographers--though the cheaper T2i can still suffice if you don't need the articulated LCD--and it's a solid choice for creative still shooters. But though the image quality and general shooting performance are top-notch, if you're upgrading to capture sports, kids, or pets, the T3i may not be able to keep up.
Price: $699.95 - $1,095.11 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
Canon EOS Rebel T2i (with 18-55mm lens)
A great follow-up to the T1i, if you want the best photo and video quality in a dSLR for less than $1,000, the Canon EOS Rebel T2i is hard to beat.
Price: $606.22 - $999.99 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
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: $1,302.37 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
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: $514.00 - $941.15 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
Nikon D5100 (with 18-55mm VR lens)
Though it doesn't rank first based on any individual aspect of the camera, the Nikon D5100 delivers a solid combination of image quality, performance, features, and design that puts it out in front if you're looking for a well-rounded option under $1,000.
Price: $746.95 - $829.99 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
Nikon D3100 (with 18-55mm lens)
A very good entry-level dSLR, the Nikon D3100 delivers excellent photo quality in a body that's streamlined for experienced photographers, but relatively unintimidating for the less advanced. Its only weakness is performance; though solid, it nevertheless lags behind the competition.
Price: $596.95 - $829.95 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
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: $449.00 - $469.99 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
Canon EOS Rebel T3 (with 18-55mm IS II lens)
Though it's a perfectly fine entry-level camera, there are better options for the money than the Canon EOS Rebel T3.
Price: $449.99 - $499.99 (check prices)
4 stars Read full review
