1. Nikon D3500
Basic but brilliant for brand-new DSLR users
SPECIFICATIONS
Sensor: APS-C CMOSMegapixels: 24.2MPAutofocus: 11-point AF, 1 cross-typeScreen type: 3.0-inch, 921,000 dotsMaximum continuous shooting speed: 5fpsMovies: 1080pUser level: Beginner
REASONS TO BUY
+Terrific 24MP sensor+Excellent value for money
REASONS TO AVOID
2. Canon EOS 90D
SPECIFICATIONS
REASONS TO BUY
REASONS TO AVOID
The EOS 90D is quite the step forward for the EOS DSLR line, being the first model of its kind to sport a 32.5MP sensor. Being announced fairly recently, it also suggests that Canon still believes that the DSLR format has some legs.
Helping to split it from the previous EOS 80D is 4K video recording, which is thankfully uncropped, while a fresh processing engine and faster burst shooting also feature. The 1300-shot battery provides far more juice than what you can get from the
average mirrorless camera, while protection against dust and water is also welcome to see.
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While modern mirrorless cameras, such as Canon's own EOS M6 II that shares the same sensor, rub some of the appeal away from cameras like the EOS 90D, by focusing on improving everything from resolution and burst rate to video and more, the company has made this a strong and versatile camera for anyone that prefers the DSLR shooting experience.
Fancy the Nikon D500 but don't fancy the price tag? Well, if you're prepared to make a few compromises here and there, the D7500 is what you should be looking at. It's packed with the same 20.9MP sensor as its more senior stablemate, and also matches it in offering 4K video recording.
Nikon has also furnished it with the same 180k-pixel RGB metering sensor and the tilting screen on the back is just as large at 3.2 inches in size, although not quite as detailed, and it's all wrapped up inside a weather-sealed body.
On an even tighter budget? There's also the older 24.2MP Nikon D7200, which continues to offer great value – if you can find it on sale.