13 Best DSLR Cameras in 2020

The Nikon D3500 is a budget-friendly DSLR camera that’s ideal for beginners ready to make the jump. That includes students taking their first photography class and folks that are tired of taking family photos with their smartphone.

Ease of use is the big draw of this particular camera as its simple enough to pick up and use regardless of your experience. Beginners can take professional looking photos without having to read tutorials, and there are enough features to please experienced users given the price point. That includes an ISO range of 100 to 25,600 and built-in Bluetooth for social sharing.

Nikon used a 24MP CMOS sensor in the D3500, and it’s capable of shooting at 5 frames per second. The video capabilities are capped at FHD, so you won’t get 4K with this one although the pictures will pop. The AF system features 11 autofocus points with face detection and live view along with contrast and phase detection. As for the LCD, it’s fixed but 3” with 921,000 dots and a 95% coverage range.

The Nikon D3500 is a minor upgrade over the previous version, but a very solid camera nonetheless. The critical tech specs are on par or better than other entry-level DSLR cameras although we wish Wi-Fi was included.

High speed, full-frame sensor, sharp processing – that’s all about Nikon D850. This DSLR camera has a back-side illuminated (BSI) FX-format full-frame CMOS image sensor. Having such image sensor Nikon D850 produces high-grade photos and has fast data readout. But note that there is no optical low-pass filter.

There is a 45.7-megapixel resolution which is suitable for shooting of fast actions. Besides, Nikon D850 offers autofocus, speedlight control, silent photography in live-view mode, focus shift capability and other useful options. Its ISO is super low and can reach ISO 64 or even ISO 32. Thus, you can count on a top-notch dynamic range.

As to its shooting speed, Nikon D850 has up to 9 fps at full resolution with full AF performance. What is more, this DSLR camera provides full-frame 4K UHD movie recording.

Specs:

• Sensor: BSI FX-format full-frame CMOS
• Megapixels: 45.7 mp
• Max ISO: 25,600 (expandable to: 102,400)
• Shooting Speed: 9 fps

Despite its bold name, the Canon Rebel SL3 aka EOS 250D is actually the company’s smallest SLR with a twist: this is practically the upgraded version of the old SLR2, and speaking of upgrades, the SL3 received a better (as in more modern) processor (Digic 8), as well as hardware support for 4K video. Now, even if the Rebel SL3 is kind of small, measuring 3.7 by 4.8 by 2.8 inches and weighing 15,8 ounces sans a lens attached, this mini-Canon has enough weight to throw around, flaunting a 24MP APS-C sensor with Dual Pixel autofocus, which is both easy to use and accurate.

Another advantage of the Canon Rebel SL3 is that it’s capable of shooting awesome images in basically any type of scenario, while keeping it real simple for the end user, i.e. this baby is incredibly user friendly, being aimed at beginners, which means it’s really fun to use and comfortable to carry around, not to mention it comes with insane battery life. It’s also worth mentioning that the Rebel SL3 is currently Canon’s smallest DSLR model, and shares most of its features, including the sensor, with the EOS M series.

However, what you’ll not find in the EOS M line-up is the optical viewfinder, which compared to the electronic variety, provides a more natural view of the world, at least for some folks.

Specs:

• 24.1MP APS-C sensor with Dual Pixel CMOS AF
• DIGIC 8 processing engine
• 4K UHD video recording to 24p

Another Canon DSLR camera which deserves your attention and may pretend to be called the best budget camera is EOS Rebel T7i. As well as the pre-cited Rebel SL2 this one is provided with an optical viewfinder and Dual Pixel CMOS AF. Thus, you will be always able to see the real scene you are taking a picture of and get your focus on it as fast as possible.

In addition to this, EOS Rebel T7i has an option of Movie Electronic IS6, which helps to minimize the blurring effect of camera shake and always get smooth movies. By the way, if you use it with a compatible Canon lens Movie Electronic IS you will get 5-axis stabilization in the horizontal, vertical and rotational planes.

There’s also an option of HDR movies and photos to provide your images with more natural colors and bright details. Time-lapse movie is included as well.

Specs:

• Sensor: CMOS (APS-C)
• Megapixels: 24.2 mp
• Max ISO: 25,600 (expandable to: 51,200)
• Shooting Speed: 6 fps

Unlike the previous Canon models EOS 6D Mark II isn’t a cheap camera. Consequently, it means that this DSLR camera is of a higher quality and has more useful options to make professional photos.

Its optical viewfinder has 45 all cross-type AF point. Thanks to its shooting speed of 6.5 fps you can capture fast-moving objects without losing image sharpness. Add to this a 26.2 Megapixel CMOS sensor and DIGIC 7 Image Processor and you will get smooth and accurate images. By the way, unlike Nikon D850 it isn’t too heavy to tire you out. What it is more, it’s compact.

Canon EOS 6D Mark II is also equipped with built-in GPS, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. This camera is quite durable and it’s dust and water-resistant. There are covers for a battery compartment, card slot and terminal. The body itself is made of high-precision aluminum alloy and polycarbonate resin.

Specs:

• Sensor: Full-frame CMOS
• Megapixels: 26.2 mp
• Max ISO: 40,000 (expandable to: 102,400)
• Shooting Speed: 6.5 fps

Pentax is one of the oldest companies on our list as they’ve been producing lenses in some form since the early 1900s. Needless to say, they know a thing or two about cameras, and the KP is a rugged snapper built for photographers on the go.

It’s always nice to know your gear can withstand a bit of abuse no matter how careful you are. While you won’t want to drive tent pegs with the Pentax KP, it’s more resistant to the elements than other cameras on our list. This sealed DSLR can withstand more than a light rain, and you’ll never need to worry about grit and grime getting into the ports.

When it comes to tech specs, the KP is impressive with a 24.3MP filterless CMOS sensor. It can shoot continuously at 7 frames per second and has an ISO range of 100 to 819,200. Image stabilization comes from in-body tech featuring a 5-axis shake reduction. It also has a SAFOX 11 autofocus system with 27 points and a tiltable LCD panel. On the downside, it can’t handle 4K video which is disappointing given the price point.

If you take more action shots than family photos or need a camera that can handle a downpour, the KP might be the right DSLR for you. It’s not the sleekest camera we’ve come across, but it performs as advertised and produced beautiful photos. The Pentax KP is available in Black or Silver and ships with interchangeable grips, but you’ll need to pick up a lens separately.

It’s one of the most expensive DSLRs but at the same time probably one of the best Canon cameras with amazing features which outgo a row of its forerunners and today’s main competitors.

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II has a new 20.2MP CMOS full-frame sensor with Dual Pixel autofocus. It can offer you 14 fps continuous shooting (with up to 16 fps in live view)! In fact, such shooting speed seems to be something supernatural as even its greatest competitor Nikon 5D allows only 12 fps and 14fps with mirror up. Though we should admit that autofocus is not as much impressive as a shooting speed – 61-point with 41 cross-type. Note that Nikon D5 has a 153-point autofocus.

Its RGB metering sensor resolution reaches 360k pixels while other cameras usually can’t offer more than 200k pixels. Canon EOS-1D X Mark II has a 20.2 mp sensor which is better than 18.1 mp of its predecessor Canon EOS-1D X, but Nikon 5D can offer somewhat a little bit better with a 20.8 mp sensor.

Canon EOS-1D X Mark II is able to capture 4K/60p videos what is a real progress comparing with 1080/60p of Canon EOS-1D X or UHD 4K/30p of Nikon D5

On the whole, this DSLR is a great choice for real pros who know how to make use of a camera with such options. Still, high quality costs money. Canon EOS-1D X is a kind of an expensive hobby.

Specs:

• Sensor: Full-Frame CMOS
• Megapixels: 20 mp
• Max ISO: 51,200
• Shooting Speed: 16 fps

January 2016 is a time of Nikon D5 birth. This DSLR camera has surprised photographers with its ISO range — 3 280 000, a result of APS and Expeed 5 engine combination. This feature is especially useful for sports photos.

Nikon camera produces photos with 20.8 mp and its shooting speed is one of the highest at the modern market of cameras – 12 fps (14 fps with mirror up). The only camera which has a better result is Canon EOS-1D X Mark II – 14 fps (16 fps in live view).

The quality of video recording is also impressive – 4К format with 30 fps. And note that Nikon D5 can shoot during the video! In fact, this is one of the best DSLR cameras for video.

Besides, this Nikon camera has a long-lasting battery life. You will have to make at least 3,000 shots before it will need a charge. Its video autofocus also includes contrast detection.

Nikon D5 is very close in its options to Canon EOS-1D X Mark II which is regarded as one of the most powerful cameras produced by Canon. So, we can say for sure that D5 is one of the best Nikon DSLR cameras you can find nowadays.

Specs:

• Sensor: Full-Frame CMOS
• Megapixels: 21 mp
• Max ISO: 3,280,000
• Shooting Speed: 14 fps

The Sony a99II is geared towards professionals which means it’s packed full of flagship features you won’t find on more affordable models. That includes a massive sensor along and a hybrid autofocus system that put other DSLRs to shame.

Sony spared no expense with the a9911 as it has a weather-resistant magnesium alloy body and a 43.6MP Exmor R COMS sensor. This back-illuminated unit has an expanded ISO range of 50 to 102,400 and can do 4K at 100Mbps. We’re also big fans of the expanded “flexible spot” on this shooter which helps you hone in on your subject.

Another highlight of this camera is the autofocus system. Sony went with a hybrid cross-point array setup which has 79 points (15 cross points) and a 399 point focal plane. This allows you to key in on a wide variety of subjects, and its continuous shot capabilities are impressive at 12 frames per second. The camera also has built-in Wi-Fi and NFC along with full-frame 4K UHD video and Super 35 film mode.

The a99II is a slick looking camera with all the bells & whistles you could ask for and a better AF system than the previous generations. While expensive, it’s well worth a look if you want the best.

The Nikon D5600 is an excellent alternative to the D3500 if you like the style and size but want more features. While the cameras share some similarities, the LCD display, AE bracketing and better sound take this compact camera to a whole different level.

You’ll get the same 24MP APS-C CMOS sensor found on the D3500, and the ISO range stays the same as well. There are more points in the autofocus system however with 39 compared to 11, and you’ll also get a microphone port on the D5600. Other improvements include timelapse recording, less lag, and built-in Wi-Fi to go along with Bluetooth and NFC.

The LCD is a touchscreen panel that tilts and measures 3.2” with a resolution of 1.37M-dot. The viewfinder providers 95% coverage with a magnification of 0.82x while the shutter speed clocks in at 30 to 1/4000 seconds. There are over a dozen scene modes although you’ll be a bit limited when it comes to sports due to the buffer size and a cap of 5 frames per second.

This little camera is older than some of our other options but quite capable and a joy to use. It’s ideal if you enjoy sharing photos as you take them as well, and available with just the body or in bundle with a lens or accessories depending on your needs.

If you need something more then Full HD Nikon D7500 is one of the best DSLR cameras you can choose from. It produces both 4K Ultra HD and 1080p Full HD video with stereo sound. It has also got 4K UHD Time-Lapse option and power aperture control.

What is more, its autofocus is more powerful than the pre-cited Canon EOS 6D Mark II and EOS Rebel T7i have. Nikon D7500 is equipped with 51-point AF system with 15 cross-type sensors and group-area AF. Apart from this, it has 8 fps shooting speed, what makes this camera almost ideal for fast-action shooting.

The camera itself is comfortable in use. It has a large tilting 3.2-inch touchscreen and a Monocoque design with advanced weather sealing. Its long battery life with 950 shots on a single charge is another advantage to take into account.

Specs:

• Sensor: CMOS (APS-C) DX-format
• Megapixels: 20.9 mp
• Max ISO: 51,200 (expandable to: 1,638,400)
• Shooting Speed: 8 fps

The Canon EOS 90D makes for a mid-range digital SLR with ASP-C and features the company’s brand new 32.5MP CMOS sensor, as well as the blazing fast Digic 8 processor, plus an updated metering sensor. Speaking of the latter, you’ll be able to use face detection if you’re shooting via the viewfinder, which is kind of cool. With their new “full featured” EOS 90D, Canon is basically proving that DSLRs are not dead just yet in the age of mirrorless, especially if you’re looking at the price-tag, which seems to be tailored to make DSLR enthusiasts happy.

The 90D boasts a deeper grip, which is well designed and supremely comfortable for “binge photographers” over extended periods of time, while the battery life is nothing short of impressive (1300 shots). If you’re not ready to say goodbye to old school DSLRs and switch to mirrorless, the Canon EOS 90D will suit you like a glove.

Compared to its popular predecessor, the EOS 80D respectively, the 90D is quicker due to its new imaging engine, and also has more pixels. However, the “user-friendliness” thing is still here, and, fortunately, the same goes for affordability.

Specs:

• 33MP – APS-C CMOS Sensor
• ISO 100 – 25600220K RGB+IR metering sensor
• EOS iTR AF (face detection)
• 4K UHD 30P/ Full HD 120P video
• Built-in Wireless
• Weather-Sealed Body

If you prefer to have only the best stuff in your life and camera is not an exception then don’t miss a chance to make use of this Canon DSLR camera. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is rather expensive as only its body costs approximately $3,500. However, it fully corresponds to the options this DSLR camera offers.

There are several features which make this camera a robust representer of the photography world. First of all, Canon EOS 5D has a great 61-point autofocus. It has got a full-frame APS-C CMOS sensor with 100-32,000 ISO range, which is expandable even up to 50-102,400.

This camera has 30.4 megapixels and shooting speed of 7 fps. It also has DIGIC 6+ image processor which delivers supersonic focusing and great noise reduction at high ISOs. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is an excellent option for any light conditions and is especially good for weddings, landscapes and commercial stuff.

You will be also impressed by its video performance as this Canon DSLR camera captures spectacular movies in 4K 2160p Motion JPEG. Its multiple video options include Full HD up to 60p and HD up to 120p. Thanks to 150,000-pixel RGB+IR metering sensor it is possible to get precise exposure metering and detect flickering lights.

There is also an option of Wi-Fi as well as GPS. Still, with such a great number of settings Canon EOS 5D Mark VI is rather simple in use due to the pretty detailed menu and a good arrangement of its buttons.

Specs:

• Sensor: Full-Frame CMOS
• Megapixels: 30 mp
• Max ISO: 102,400
• Shooting Speed: 7 fps