Best SLR Camera Under $500
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The only current generation DSLR on our list, the EOS Rebel T3 is Canon’s entry level camera which was released in February of 2011. It sports a 12.1 MPx CMOS Sensor with Canon’s DIGIC 4 Image Processor.
The camera has also been upgraded to a 9-point AF System. The dual-layered metering sensor has 63 zones allowing for more accurate exposures.
The camera also has the added functionality of video recording, something that was missing in its predecessor. 720p recording is now possible at frames of 30 or 25 FPS.
Live View is supported through its 2.7 inch LCD screen and it functions just as it would on any point and shoot camera.
ISO settings range from 100 – 6400 and the camera is capable of shooting at 3 FPS (3 JPG or 2 RAW).
Given that this is an entry level camera, it also has many functions to help guide those new to photography.
Camera Labs has given this camera an 80% sighting some of its strengths as, “good image quality that’s similar to modern 14 MPx rivals” and having “quick and easy access to many settings.”
Some of its weaknesses include having a “plasticky body with no rubber surfaces” and a “continuous shooting buffer that’s small.” The 2.7 inch LCD screen is noted as being somewhat small as well.
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The Nikon D3000 was released in July of 2009. It features a 10.2 MPx DX Format CCD Sensor with Nikon’s EXSPEED Image Processor. It has a 3 inch fixed LCD screen and an 11-point AF System.
ISO settings range from 100 – 1600 (3,200 equivalent with boost). Active-D Lighting allows detail to be brought out in pictures that have both light and dark scenes. The camera is also capable of shooting at 3 FPS.
The biggest draw of this camera is its much touted Guide Mode, which helps users new to photography via its on screen help that is both simple and informative.
Camera Labs has given this camera an 80% sighting some of its strengths as “very friendly and easy to use” and “decent metering and 11-point AF system.”
Some of its faults include “no live view or movie mode” and not having “exposure bracketing or DOF preview.”
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The Sony Alpha A390 is one the company’s previous generation entry level cameras. Released at around June of 2010, it sports a 14.2 MPx CCD Sensor with Sony’s BIONZ Image Sensor.
The camera has built-in image stabilization, a quick Live View system and a vertically-tilting 2.7 LCD screen. It is also capable of shooting at 2.5 FPS.
ISO sensitivity ranges from 100 – 3200 and it has a 9-point Center Cross AF Sensor.
To help with beginner usability, Sony has revamped the interface to be much easier to the user. It now features an on-screen Help Guide and Graphical Display, both of which offer explanations of the various modes and settings.
Camera Labs gave the A380 (which is near identical to the A390) a score of 81% citing some of its strengths as “built-in IS which works with any lens” and “quick and fuss-free Live View.”
Some of its weaknesses lie in having “more noise than rivals at high ISOs”, “no movie mode” and “body shape may not be to all tastes.”
If you have any questions please feel free to email me at andy@bestslrcamerainfo.com.
Thanks for reading.
Best SLR Camera Info
Andy H.