10 Best Cheap Photography Cameras 2025 in the United States

The Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera is an affordable option for those interested in photography without breaking the bank. This camera comes with a 24.1 MP CMOS sensor, which is excellent for capturing detailed images. It has a decent ISO range of 100-6400, expandable to 12800, making it suitable for different lighting conditions. The built-in Wi-Fi and NFC technology allow easy sharing of photos and videos, which is a nice bonus for social media enthusiasts.

The included 18-55mm lens provides a versatile range, ideal for everyday photography needs. The 9-point autofocus system is somewhat basic but functional for standard photography tasks. Video capabilities are also solid with Full HD 1080p resolution, although it doesn't support 4K. The battery life is respectable, offering up to 500 shots on a single charge. The camera's build quality is lightweight yet durable, making it easy to handle for prolonged periods.

However, it doesn't offer a touch screen, and the screen is fixed, which might limit some creative angles for shooting. For beginners and those looking to casually venture into photography, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 is a well-rounded choice. Advanced users might find the autofocus system and the continuous shooting speed of 3 fps somewhat limiting. It's a great entry-level DSLR that balances performance, ease of use, and cost effectively.

The Canon EOS R50 is a strong option for those looking for a budget-friendly mirrorless camera with solid image quality. Its 24.2MP APS-C sensor delivers detailed photos suitable for most everyday photography needs. The RF mount lens compatibility, including the included 18-45mm kit lens, offers flexibility to grow your lens collection over time. Autofocus is a standout feature with 651 focus points and smart tracking of people and animals, which is very helpful for capturing sharp images and smooth videos.

The ISO range extends up to 51200, allowing decent performance in low light, though very dark scenes may still be challenging without extra lighting. Video capabilities are impressive for this price, offering uncropped 4K at 30fps and slow-motion Full HD at 120fps, making it a good pick for vloggers and content creators. Battery life is average, so carrying a spare is advisable for longer shoots. Build-wise, it has a lightweight and compact mirrorless design with a fully articulating touchscreen and an electronic viewfinder for easy composition from various angles.

However, the kit lens has a relatively narrow aperture (f/4.5-6.3), which may limit low-light shooting and background blur effects compared to faster lenses. Also, while it includes Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for easy sharing, beginners might find the wide range of features a bit overwhelming at first. This camera suits hobbyists and aspiring creators who want a capable camera without a high price tag, especially if video and autofocus are priorities.