Best DSLR Camera

Canon EOS 6D DSLR camera
(Image credit: Canon)

Selecting a DSLR camera can seem a daunting prospect, the range of features and budgets can be bewildering, and rightly so. The camera world is complex and DSLR cameras are the type used by professionals and come with the most advanced and expensive features on the market. We’ve outlined some of the best DSLR cameras available whether you’re just starting to get your feet wet, or are a working professional looking to upgrade. Here is our list of the best DSLR cameras. 

Best overall

Canon EOS 6D

(Image credit: Canon)

Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Dual pixel autofocus

The Canon EOS 6D Mark II is a fantastic DLSR camera that suits those new to this type of camera as well as those with more experience. It offers easy-to-use controls and a newly redesigned 26.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor. This is backed by dual pixel autofocus that works in live view mode. The onboard WiFi, NFC, and Bluetooth ensure you’re always fully connected. The 1,090 shot battery life is also a plus.

Best value DSLR

Nikon D3500

(Image credit: Nikon)

Nikon D3500

Good basic DSLR

The Nikon D3500 is a good option for anyone that needs a DSLR with lots of features but can’t afford the more professional models. The 24.2MP sensor is a very capable APS-S CMOS setup with sharp image results. It covers an 18-55mm range, which is perfect for general photography and gives you a bit of zoom to play with. You get over 1,500 shots on a full battery and can use the Snapbridge app to send shots automatically to your phone. While the D3500 is ideal for beginners it will help you graduate quickly and start using Manual and Aperture / Shutter priority with ease to get some spectacular shots.

Best DSLR for beginners

Canon EOS Rebel SL3

(Image credit: Canon)

Canon EOS Rebel SL3

Compact, light body

The Canon EOS Rebel SL3 is a superb beginner DLSR camera which is easy to use but offers a wealth of options for anyone looking to improve their camera skills. This is a lightweight camera that's easy to handle and offers simple controls. Shooting is made easier with the Dual Pixel CMOS AF system and a 24.1MP sensor. The 3-inch variant-angle touchscreen is easy to use and makes for a great way to shoot video. Thanks to the EF-S lens mounting system you'll have access to lots and lots of lens options, making it ideal as a system that can grow as your skills develop.

Best DSLR with lens

DSLR camera

(Image credit: Amazon)

Olympus Evolt E620

Lens is included

Most DSLR cameras require you to purchase the camera body, and then the different types and size lens separately. The Olympus Evolt includes a 14-42mm lens along with the camera body. This camera features a 12.3MP sensor that produces high-quality images. It also has TruePic and Wave Drive to capture motion shots that come out clear. It has a 4 fps shooting speed, and both auto and manual focus. The touch screen makes it easy to adjust settings.

Best DSLR for video

Canon EOS 90D

(Image credit: Canon)

Canon DSLR EOS 90D

Records in 4K

The Canon EOS 90D is a top option for anyone that could use the powerful 32.5MP APS-C CMOS sensor that this camera offers. That means uncropped 4K video as well as a capable 45-point autofocus system with 45 cross-types. There's a new processing engine in this generation that is capable of capturing an impressive 10fps of burst shots. And with a 1,300-shot battery, this is able to keep going a lot longer than much of the competition. The joystick control is another useful feature that helps this cater to the enthusiast as well as the improving beginner.

Best DSLR for professionals

DSLR camera

(Image credit: Amazon)

Nikon D850 FX-Formate

Advanced, high-end features

Most high-end DSLRs prioritize fast burst shooting or a high megapixel count, but the D850 proves you can have the best of both in a single camera. The 45.4MP sensor provides stacks of detail while burst shooting for up to 7fps – or 9fps with the optional battery pack – is perfect for action shooters needing, or just wanting, that high-resolution output. Add to that a superb focusing system, 4K video recording, a tough, weather-resistant construction, and you can see just why the D850 is so highly regarded by professionals working across many disciplines. The fact that it works with so many exquisite lenses only makes it that much better.

Thoughts on DSLR cameras

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At the heart of the best DSLR cameras is the sensor. While raw megapixels are important, for a DSLR the physical size of the sensor is just as key. The ultimate 35mm “Full Frame” sensor provides 1:1 capture quality as 35mm film, the APS-C sensor found in many DSLR cameras delivers around 40% of the Full Frame area.

When looking at the best DLSR camera models you’ll see a lot of Canon and Nikon models, while there are other big-name manufacturers, these two are the go-to choice for professionals. A key reason for this being the wide-range of replacement lenses on offer; Canon has its EF-S and Nikon its F mount systems. The more popular a lens mount, the larger the range of lenses a DSLR camera will have at its disposal, giving you more creative shooting options. 

Don’t overlook video capabilities either. Being able to capture 4K video alongside stills can be vital for a professional, rather than just being a nice bonus feature. The latest models should handle 4K video but you’ll find basic or older models will only offer 1080p capture. With a myriad of manual controls, it’s easy for beginners to get overwhelmed with professional cameras, but a decent screen with touch controls can go a long way to help ease the learning curve.

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