With notable advancements in DSLR technology, prices are now lower than ever for many impressive cameras, but which are the best DSLRs under $1,000?
At least on the U.S. market, the $1,000 price point is a major mark. It's the maximum amount many are willing to invest when looking for a new camera system that's powerful, yet still affordable, and several notable options make the cut with sub-$1,000 price tags.
For less than $1,000, you can find powerful DSLR cameras from major players such as Nikon, Canon, Pentax, Sony and others, so here are the best options currently available on the market:
- Nikon D5300
The Nikon D5300 comes as an advanced-beginner, or high-end entry-level DSLR in the company's APS-C lineup. This D5300 replaces the previous D5200 model, which proved to be one of the most popular models in the past years. The Nikon D5300 comes with a 24.2-megapixel sensor, an articulated rear LCD display, nine cross -type AF points (39 AF points) and also includes built-in Wi-Fi and GPS, marking a fist for the company's DSLR lineup. The Nikon D5300 costs $646.95 for the body only, but is also available with a 18-140mm Kit for $946.95. It's just under the $1,000 mark with the kit, and is a great combination of body and lens. This combo normally goes for $1,299.95.
- Canon EOS Rebel T5i
The Canon EOS Rebel T5i is the closest rival to the Nikon D5300, as both are fighting for the top in the best sub-$1,000 DSLR category. The Rebel T5i offers one of the best Canon DSLR and lens combination for less than $1,000, and is the company's most advanced entry-level Rebel model. The camera sports an 18-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor, a DIGIC 5 image processor, a neat hybrid AF system, nine cross-type AF points, AF tracking, toushscreen LCD, and good battery life.
The Canon T5i comes in at $649 on its own, i.e. in the same price range as the ikon D5300. An excellent combination for this powerful Canon DSLR includes the EF-S 18-135 mm kit, which costs $849 - currently down from its regular $999 price. The lens is sharp enough and offers above-average image quality overall, and it's a great combo for this price.
- Pentax K-50
The Pentax K-50 is the more affordable alternative to the impressive Pentax K-3, but will still offer excellent performance for under $1,000. A quality Pentax K-50 16-megapixel DSLR Camera Kit with DA 18-135mm lens is now available for just $628.83, which is an impressive deal for this combination. A 4GB Eye-Fi card is also in the mix, allowing users to easily transfer their photos onto a smartphone or a tablet. The Pentax K-50 offers some unique features at this price point, such as twin control dials and weather-sealing and freeze-proofing capabilities for both the camera body and lens.
- Sony Alpha A77II
While Sony may be better-known for its mirrorless cameras with interchangeable lens, the company does offer notable DSLR options as well. The Sony Alpha A77II is the top model in the company's APS-C lineup, delivering a quality performance. The camera allows for fast and continuous live autofocus thanks to its Translucent Mirror Technology, can shoot at up to 12fps, boasts an advanced AF system with 79-poit phase detection, and is also weather-sealed. On the other hand, the Sony Alpha A77II comes with an $898 price tag for the body only, and it doesn't come with attractive lens options like the ones available for Canon and Nikon's offerings in this category.
- Nikon D5500
The D5500 model was the highlight of Nikon's 2015 announcement, coming as a powerful mid-range DSLR. This model finally adds the touch screen functionality the D5300 model lacks, while also improving the ergonomics. Intriguingly, the D5500 comes with built-in Wi-Fi like the D5300, but no GPS. The Nikon D5300 is arguably a top choice when it comes to affordable DSLRs, but it barely makes the cut for the sub-$1,000 list. While the previous four DSLRs listed above get close to the $1,000 mark complete with quality lens combinations, the Nikon D5500 costs $746.95 on its own (down from the regular $899.95), but goes up to $1,334.95 with a 18-140 mm lens combo.
