Best DSLR Cameras You Can Buy in 2026

My personal opinion? If you are buying your first interchangeable-lens camera in 2026, you should probably buy a mirrorless camera, not a DSLR. I say this as someone who has been shooting with DSLRs since 2008, when my first Canon EOS 400D (the Digital Rebel XTi) was my constant travel companion.

I have since shot with DSLRs across over 40 countries, upgraded through multiple Canon bodies, and used them professionally for over a decade. For the last couple of years my primary camera has been a mirrorless Canon EOS R5, and I won’t pretend otherwise: for most people starting out today, mirrorless is the better choice.

So why write a DSLR guide in 2026? Because DSLRs still make sense for a certain kind of buyer, and right now the used market is offering some of the best deals in the history of digital photography.

If you know what to look for, you can put together a full-frame DSLR kit with professional-grade lenses for a fraction of what a comparable mirrorless setup would cost. This guide will help you figure out if a DSLR is right for you, and if so, which one to get.

We also have guides to the best mirrorless cameras, the best compact cameras, and a comprehensive best travel camera guide on Finding the Universe that covers all camera types if you are not sure which type of camera is best for your needs.

Should You Buy a DSLR Camera in 2026?

Let me be direct about the state of DSLRs in 2026. Canon, Nikon, and Sony have all stopped developing new DSLR cameras. Pentax is the only major manufacturer still actively making them. Most of the DSLRs in this guide are no longer manufactured new, which means you will likely be buying used, refurbished, or from remaining new stock that is gradually running out.

You might have seen articles comparing the DSLR “comeback” to the vinyl record resurgence. I think that comparison is misleading, and here is why. Vinyl records actually produce a different sound than digital audio. The analog medium creates warmth, depth, and imperfections that some listeners prefer. There is a real, measurable difference in the output.

A DSLR camera and a mirrorless camera with the same sensor produce the same image. This is not the same as film vs digital. The sensor inside a Canon EOS 6D Mark II and the sensor inside many Canon mirrorless cameras capture light in the same way. There is no “DSLR look” the way there is a “film look” or a “vinyl sound.” The photos are the same. The differences between a DSLR and a mirrorless camera are about the shooting experience, not the final image.

So the question is whether those experience differences matter enough to you. Here is who I think should still consider a DSLR for photography:

You already own DSLR lenses. If you have a collection of Canon EF or Nikon F-mount lenses, a used DSLR body lets you keep using them without buying an adapter or replacing your glass. Both Canon and Nikon make adapters for their mirrorless systems, but adding an adapter changes the handling and adds bulk. A DSLR body that natively accepts your existing lenses is the simplest option.

You want the best possible battery life. This is the one area where DSLRs clearly outperform mirrorless cameras. A DSLR’s optical viewfinder does not draw power from the battery. A typical DSLR will get 800 to 1,200 shots per charge. A typical mirrorless camera gets 300 to 500. On a long day of photography with no access to charging, that difference matters.

You prefer an optical viewfinder. Some photographers simply prefer looking through a piece of glass at the actual scene rather than at a tiny electronic screen. It is a valid preference and there is no mirrorless equivalent.

You want to get into serious photography on a budget. This is the strongest argument for a DSLR in 2026. Used DSLR prices have dropped substantially as photographers upgrade to mirrorless. Used DSLR-compatible lenses have dropped even further, because the supply is enormous and demand has shifted. You can put together a full-frame DSLR body plus two or three excellent lenses for the price of a mid-range mirrorless body alone. If budget is a major factor and you want the most camera for your money, DSLRs are hard to beat right now.

You are curious about Pentax. Pentax is doing something no other manufacturer is doing: still making new DSLRs and actively developing the platform. If that decision to keep making DSLRs appeals to you, Pentax cameras are worth a look, and they have some features (like in-body stabilization and Astrotracer for night sky photography) that are unique.

Who Should Not Buy a DSLR

If none of the above applies to you, a mirrorless camera will likely serve you better for travel photography. Mirrorless cameras are lighter, have faster and more accurate autofocus (especially for tracking moving subjects), offer in-body image stabilization on most models, and are where all the current development and new lenses are happening. See our guide to the best mirrorless cameras for recommendations.

What is a DSLR Camera?

DSLR stands for Digital Single Lens Reflex. The key feature is a mirror inside the camera body that sits between the lens and the sensor. When you look through the viewfinder, you are seeing light that has bounced off this mirror, which means you are looking at the actual scene through the lens, not at a digital preview on a screen.

When you press the shutter button, the mirror flips up, the shutter opens, and light hits the digital sensor to record the image. This is why the viewfinder goes dark for a moment when you take a photo.

This mirror mechanism is what makes a DSLR a DSLR, and it is also what makes them physically larger than mirrorless cameras, which have no mirror and can therefore have a shorter distance between the lens mount and the sensor.

DSLR vs. Other Camera Types

DSLR vs. Smartphone

A DSLR will produce better image quality than any smartphone, especially in low light, and gives you the ability to change lenses and shoot in RAW format for more editing flexibility. The trade-off is size, weight, and convenience. A smartphone fits in your pocket and is always with you. A DSLR requires a bag and conscious effort to carry.

If you just want to capture memories and share them on social media, a modern smartphone is probably enough. If you want to control the creative process, print your photos, or shoot in challenging conditions, a DSLR (or mirrorless camera) will give you far more to work with.

DSLR vs. Compact Camera

Compact cameras (point-and-shoots) sit between smartphones and interchangeable-lens cameras. They are smaller and lighter than DSLRs and easier to use, but you cannot change lenses and image quality is usually closer to a smartphone than a DSLR. If you want something simple and small, see our guide to the best compact cameras.

DSLR vs. Mirrorless

This is the comparison that matters most in 2026. A mirrorless camera does everything a DSLR does but without the mirror mechanism. This makes them smaller and lighter in most cases, and the lack of a mirror allows for faster and more sophisticated autofocus systems.

The main advantages a DSLR still has over mirrorless are battery life (significantly better), optical viewfinder (some people prefer it), and cost on the used market (substantially cheaper for equivalent quality).

The main advantages mirrorless has over DSLRs are size and weight, autofocus performance, in-body image stabilization, electronic viewfinder (shows you exactly what the final image will look like), and the fact that all new lenses and camera development is happening in mirrorless systems.

For a more detailed comparison, see our guide to using a mirrorless camera on Finding the Universe.

What to Look for When Buying a DSLR Camera

If you have decided a DSLR is right for you, here are the key specifications and features to consider when comparing models.

Sensor Size

The sensor is the part of the camera that captures the image, and its size directly affects image quality, low-light performance, and depth of field control.

DSLR cameras come in two main sensor sizes. APS-C (also called “crop sensor”) is the smaller of the two, measuring roughly 24mm x 16mm. It is found in entry-level and mid-range cameras, and produces excellent image quality for most uses. Nikon calls this “DX” format.

Full frame sensors match the size of traditional 35mm film at 36mm x 24mm, giving them about 2.5 times the surface area of an APS-C sensor. Full frame cameras capture more light, perform better in low-light conditions, and give you more control over background blur. They are also larger, heavier, and more expensive. My personal camera progression went from APS-C to full frame, and the difference was immediately noticeable, especially for low-light shooting.

Megapixels

Megapixels determine the resolution of your images. More megapixels means more detail and the ability to print larger or crop more aggressively. For most photography, anything above 20 megapixels is more than enough. Most social media platforms display images at well under 4 megapixels, and even large prints only need about 7 to 10 megapixels.

Do not let megapixel counts drive your purchasing decision. Sensor size, lens quality, and the camera’s processing capabilities matter far more for real-world image quality.

Battery Life

This is one of the genuine advantages of DSLRs. Because the optical viewfinder does not need power, DSLRs sip battery compared to mirrorless cameras. Look for at least 600 to 700 shots per charge. Many of the full-frame DSLRs in this guide manage over 1,000 shots per charge, which is enough for a full day of heavy shooting without needing to swap batteries.

Be aware that using the rear LCD screen instead of the optical viewfinder, or running features like GPS and WiFi, will reduce battery life.

Size and Weight

DSLRs are larger and heavier than mirrorless cameras, but there is a wide range within the category. Body weights go from around 14 ounces (400 grams) for compact APS-C models to over 35 ounces (1,000 grams) for professional full-frame bodies. Keep in mind that lenses add significant weight on top of the body, so factor in the lenses you plan to use when thinking about total travel weight.

Lens Compatibility

One of the best things about buying into a DSLR system in 2026 is the lens selection. Canon EF-mount and Nikon F-mount lenses have been made for decades, and the used market is flooded with excellent glass at prices that would have been unthinkable five years ago. There are hundreds of lenses to choose from for both Canon and Nikon systems, including affordable third-party options from Sigma and Tamron.

This is where the total cost of ownership argument gets interesting. A used Canon EF 24-105mm f/4L lens, which is a superb walk-around lens, can be found for a fraction of what a comparable Canon RF-mount lens costs new. The lens you put on the front of your camera matters more than the camera body for image quality, and DSLR lenses are a bargain right now.

If you already own lenses, staying with the same manufacturer is usually the smart move. See our guide to the best lenses for travel photography for recommendations.

Weather Sealing

If you plan to use your camera in rain, dust, or other harsh conditions, look for a weather-sealed body and weather-sealed lenses. Weather sealing is typically found on mid-range and professional cameras, not entry-level models. The Pentax KF is a notable exception, offering weather sealing at a relatively low price point.

Other Features

WiFi and Bluetooth allow you to transfer photos wirelessly to your phone, which is handy for sharing on the road. GPS geotagging records the location where each photo was taken, which I find invaluable for organizing travel photos later.

Video features vary widely, with some DSLRs offering 4K recording and others limited to 1080p. And image stabilization is available in the camera body on some models (all Pentax DSLRs have this) or in specific lenses (Canon and Nikon’s approach).

How to Buy a Used DSLR Camera

Since most of the DSLRs in this guide are no longer manufactured new, buying used is often the best option and can save you a huge amount of money. Here are a few tips for buying used cameras:

Check the shutter count. DSLRs have mechanical shutters with a finite lifespan, typically rated for 100,000 to 300,000 actuations depending on the model. A camera with a low shutter count relative to its rating has plenty of life left. Most sellers will disclose the shutter count, and you can also check it yourself using the camera’s settings or free online tools.

Buy from reputable dealers. Specialist used camera dealers inspect and grade their equipment, and typically offer warranties. We recommend KEH and MPB for used camera purchases. Amazon also offers “Renewed” cameras that have been inspected and come with a limited warranty.

Inspect for physical damage. Look for dents or cracks on the body, scratches on the LCD screen, and any signs of water damage. Check the lens mount for excessive wear, which can indicate heavy use. If buying in person, test all buttons, dials, and the autofocus system.

Factor in the lens savings. Remember that buying used applies to lenses too. A used Canon or Nikon DSLR lens that has been well cared for will perform identically to a new one. The DSLR lens market is enormous and prices are at historic lows.

For a much more detailed guide to buying used photography equipment, including what to look for, red flags to watch out for, and the best places to shop, see our guide to buying used cameras and photography gear.

 

The Best DSLR Cameras for Photography

Here are my picks for the best DSLR cameras for most people in 2026. I have organized them into three categories: cameras you can still buy new, the best options on the used market, and budget-friendly used picks for those just getting started.

For each camera, I have noted where to check current pricing. Prices on the used market fluctuate regularly, so I would recommend checking a few sources before buying.

Camera	Sensor	Weight	Battery Life	Weather Sealed	Buy New?
Pentax KF	APS-C	24.2 oz	800 shots	Yes	Yes
Pentax K-3 III	APS-C	28.9 oz	800 shots	Yes	Yes
Pentax K-1 II	Full frame	34.2 oz	670 shots	Yes	Yes
Canon Rebel T7	APS-C	16.7 oz	500 shots	No	Yes
Nikon D850	Full frame	35.5 oz	1,840 shots	Yes	Used
Nikon D780	Full frame	29.6 oz	2,260 shots	Yes	Used
Canon 5D IV	Full frame	31.4 oz	900 shots	Yes	Used
Canon 6D II	Full frame	27.0 oz	1,200 shots	Yes	Used
Canon 90D	APS-C	24.6 oz	1,300 shots	Yes	Limited
Nikon D7500	APS-C	25.4 oz	950 shots	Yes	Used
Nikon D750	Full frame	29.6 oz	1,230 shots	Yes	Used
Nikon D500	APS-C	29.5 oz	1,240 shots	Yes	Used
Nikon D3500	APS-C	14.6 oz	1,550 shots	No	Used
Nikon D5600	APS-C	16.4 oz	970 shots	No	Used
Canon SL3	APS-C	15.8 oz	1,630 shots	No	Used

 

Best DSLRs You Can Still Buy New

1. Pentax KF

Best for: Budget buyers who want a new DSLR with weather sealing and in-body stabilization.

The Pentax KF is one of the few DSLRs you can still buy brand new in 2026, and it packs in some features that are unusual at its price point. It has in-body image stabilization (Pentax calls it Shake Reduction), which means every lens you put on it benefits from stabilization. It is also fully weather sealed, something that most entry-level cameras from any manufacturer do not offer.

The 24.2MP APS-C sensor produces good image quality, and the ISO range extends up to 102,400 for low-light shooting. The vari-angle LCD is useful for shooting from awkward angles, though it is not a touchscreen.

The main limitation is Pentax’s lens selection, which is much smaller than Canon’s or Nikon’s. If you buy into the Pentax system, you are committing to a more niche ecosystem. The camera is currently available as a kit with an 18-55mm lens.

Weight: ~24.2 oz / 688g (body with battery and memory card)
Price: Check price on Amazon, B&H, and Adorama

 

2. Pentax K-3 Mark III

Best for: Enthusiasts who specifically want a new, actively developed DSLR.

The Pentax K-3 Mark III is arguably the most significant DSLR on this list, because it is the only enthusiast-level DSLR still being actively developed and manufactured. Released in 2021 and still supported with firmware updates, it shows that Pentax is still investing in the DSLR format when every other manufacturer has moved on.

It has a 25.7MP APS-C sensor, 5-axis in-body stabilization, weather sealing, a bright optical viewfinder, and 12fps burst shooting. The autofocus system has been significantly improved over previous Pentax models, though it still does not match the subject-tracking capabilities of modern mirrorless cameras.

If you want a new DSLR rather than a used one, and you want a camera that its manufacturer is still actively investing in, the K-3 III is really the only option at the enthusiast level.

Weight: ~28.9 oz / 820g (body with battery and memory card)
Price: Check price on Amazon and B&H

 

3. Pentax K-1 Mark II

Best for: Photographers who want a new full-frame DSLR, landscape shooters, astrophotography enthusiasts.

The Pentax K-1 Mark II is the only full-frame DSLR still being actively supported by its manufacturer. It has a 36.4MP full-frame sensor, 5-axis in-body stabilization, and Pentax’s unique Astrotracer feature, which uses the GPS and the sensor-shift stabilization system to track the motion of stars. If you want to shoot the night sky without star trails, this is one of the most capable cameras for that purpose at any price.

It is also fully weather-sealed and built like a tank. The image quality from that full-frame sensor is excellent, and the Pixel Shift Resolution mode can produce incredibly detailed images by combining multiple exposures.

The limitations are the same as with all Pentax cameras: a smaller lens selection compared to Canon and Nikon, and autofocus performance that trails behind modern mirrorless systems. But if those trade-offs are acceptable, and you want a new full-frame DSLR that its maker still cares about, this is your only option.

Weight: ~34.2 oz / 970g (body with battery and memory card)
Price: Check price on Amazon and B&H

 

4. Canon EOS Rebel T7 (EOS 2000D)

Best for: Absolute beginners who want a brand-new Canon DSLR at the lowest possible price.

The Canon Rebel T7 is one of the last Canon DSLRs still being sold new on Amazon at a reasonable price. It is a basic camera by 2026 standards, with a 24.1MP APS-C sensor, 9-point autofocus, 3fps burst shooting, and WiFi connectivity. The ISO tops out at 6400 and the burst speed is slow.

I include it here because it exists and it is affordable. But I want to be clear: for a similar amount of money on the used market, you can get a significantly more capable DSLR. A used Nikon D5600 or Canon Rebel SL3 will outperform the T7 in almost every measurable way. The main reason to buy the T7 is if buying a brand-new, factory-sealed Canon camera matters to you.

Weight: ~16.7 oz / 475g (body with battery and memory card)
Price: Check price on Amazon, B&H, and Adorama

 

Best Used DSLR Cameras

These are the cameras I think represent the best value on the used market in 2026. All of them are excellent cameras that were considered top-of-the-line when they were released, and the image quality they produce has not gotten worse just because newer cameras exist.

5. Nikon D850

Best for: Serious photographers who want the best DSLR ever made. Landscapes, portraits, events, wildlife.

The Nikon D850 is, by wide consensus, one of the best DSLR cameras ever made. It was launched in 2017 and it still holds up against modern mirrorless cameras in image quality. The 45.7MP full-frame sensor has exceptional dynamic range, the 153-point autofocus system is fast and accurate, it shoots at 7fps (9fps with the battery grip), and it can record 4K video.

The D850 is weather sealed, has a tilting touchscreen, and a battery rated for 1,840 shots. It is built to last and many professional photographers are still using theirs as a daily workhorse.

The only reason this camera is available at its current used prices is that Nikon launched mirrorless successors (the Z8 and Z9) and professionals upgraded. Their loss is your gain. At current used market prices, the D850 is an absurd amount of camera for the money.

Weight: ~35.5 oz / 1,005g (body with battery and memory card)
Price: Check price on Amazon, B&H, Adorama, and used on MPB

 

6. Nikon D780

Best for: The most “modern” DSLR experience. Best all-rounder for someone who wants DSLR handling with mirrorless-level live view performance.

The Nikon D780 is probably the last great all-round DSLR. Released in 2020, it was one of the final DSLRs to launch before manufacturers shifted fully to mirrorless, and it shows: Nikon put mirrorless technology into a DSLR body. The live view autofocus system is essentially the same as the Nikon Z6, giving you fast, accurate on-sensor phase-detection AF when you use the rear screen. Through the optical viewfinder, you get a traditional 51-point AF system.

The 24.5MP full-frame sensor produces clean images, battery life is rated at 2,260 shots, it has dual card slots, and it is fully weather sealed. It also shoots 4K video, unlike the older D750 it replaced.

If I were buying a DSLR from scratch today and did not already own Canon lenses, the D780 would be very high on my list. It bridges the gap between the traditional DSLR experience and modern mirrorless capabilities better than any other camera.

Weight: ~29.6 oz / 840g (body with battery and memory card)
Price: Check price on Amazon and used on MPB

 

7. Canon EOS 5D Mark IV

Best for: Canon shooters who want professional image quality. Portraits, events, travel, landscapes.

The Canon EOS 5D series has been one of the most popular professional camera lines in history, and the Mark IV is its final and best iteration. Canon officially discontinued it in early 2026, but it remains a fantastic camera.

You get a 30.4MP full-frame sensor, 61-point autofocus, 7fps burst shooting, 4K video, built-in WiFi and GPS, weather sealing, and Canon’s Dual Pixel autofocus in live view. The image quality and color science are excellent, and the huge EF lens ecosystem means you have access to some of the best glass ever made.

The 5D Mark IV was always more expensive than the Nikon D850, and used prices reflect that. It is also slightly lower resolution and the autofocus system is not quite as advanced. But if you are invested in Canon’s EF lens system, or you simply prefer Canon’s handling and color rendering, it is still a superb camera. Used pricing fluctuates a lot on this model, so it is worth shopping around.

Weight: ~31.4 oz / 890g (body with battery and memory card)
Price: Check price on Amazon, B&H, Adorama, and used on MPB

 

8. Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Best for: Affordable full-frame photography. Lightweight, GPS, long battery life.

We own two Canon 6D bodies (the original, not the Mark II) and they have been our workhorse DSLRs for years. We still use them as second bodies alongside our mirrorless cameras because they are just that good. My first Canon DSLR was an EOS 400D (the Digital Rebel XTi) back in 2008. It was a great camera to learn on, but decent ISO performance topped out at about 400. When I upgraded to the 6D, it was a revelation. I could suddenly shoot at ISO 6400 and get clean, usable images. It was also just a wonderfully tough and enjoyable camera to use.

One feature I love on the 6D is the built-in GPS. It automatically tags every photo with the location where it was taken, which is invaluable when you are sorting through thousands of travel photos months later. My Canon EOS R5 mirrorless does not have GPS, and I really miss it. The 6D Mark II keeps this feature, along with a 1,200-shot battery life, weather sealing, and a remarkably compact and lightweight body for a full-frame camera.

The Mark II builds on the original 6D with a better autofocus system, a tilting touchscreen, and improved resolution at 26.2MP. It does not have 4K video and the burst speed is only 6.5fps, which puts it behind the 5D Mark IV and Nikon equivalents for action photography. But for travel, landscapes, and general-purpose photography, it punches well above its current used market price. If I were replacing my 6D bodies today rather than switching to mirrorless, the Mark II is what I would buy.

You can see our full list of photography gear on Finding the Universe for more about what cameras and accessories we are currently using.

Weight: ~27 oz / 765g (body with battery and memory card)
Price: Check price on Amazon, B&H, and used on MPB

 

9. Canon EOS 90D

Best for: Enthusiasts who want a high-resolution APS-C camera. Fast burst shooting, wildlife, sports.

The Canon EOS 90D has a 32.5MP APS-C sensor, which is one of the highest resolutions you will find in any APS-C camera. Combined with 10fps burst shooting, weather sealing, a movable touchscreen, and Canon’s Dual Pixel autofocus in live view, it is a very capable all-rounder.

Some limited new stock may still be available, though the camera is no longer in production and new prices have climbed. The used market is a much better bet for this camera right now, where it represents good value for what you get.

Weight: ~24.6 oz / 701g (body with battery and memory card)
Price: Check price on Amazon, B&H, and used on MPB

 

10. Nikon D7500

Best for: Nikon APS-C enthusiasts. Weather sealed, good video, strong value used.

The Nikon D7500 is the Nikon equivalent of the Canon 90D: a weather-sealed, enthusiast-grade APS-C camera with strong performance. It has a 20.9MP sensor (lower resolution than the Canon, but excellent image quality), 51-point autofocus, 8fps burst shooting, 4K video, a tilting touchscreen, and a 950-shot battery life.

It is lighter than the Canon 90D and has better battery life, though the Canon has higher resolution and slightly faster burst shooting. If you are in the Nikon system, the D7500 is the logical APS-C choice.

Weight: ~25.4 oz / 720g (body with battery and memory card)
Price: Check price on Amazon, B&H, Adorama, and used on MPB

 

11. Nikon D750

Best for: Full-frame on a budget. Excellent low-light performance at a low used price.

The Nikon D750 is the budget full-frame pick on this list. Released in 2014, it has been superseded by the D780, but at current used prices it is amazing value. The 24.3MP full-frame sensor still delivers excellent image quality and low-light performance, it has a tilting screen, weather sealing, WiFi, and a 1,230-shot battery life.

It does not have 4K video, GPS, or touchscreen, and the autofocus system is a generation behind the D780. But if you want to get into full-frame photography for the lowest possible price, the D750 remains one of the smartest buys in the used camera market.

Weight: ~29.6 oz / 840g (body with battery and memory card)
Price: Check price on Amazon and used on MPB

 

12. Nikon D500

Best for: Wildlife and action photography. The fastest APS-C DSLR ever made.

The Nikon D500 was designed for sports and wildlife photographers who wanted a fast APS-C body with professional-grade features. It has a 153-point autofocus system (the same as the D5 flagship), 10fps burst shooting with a massive buffer, weather sealing, dual card slots, and 4K video.

The APS-C sensor gives you a 1.5x crop factor, which effectively extends the reach of your telephoto lenses. Pair the D500 with a 200-600mm lens and you have an extremely capable wildlife setup.

I include it here because if your photography involves a lot of wildlife or fast-moving subjects, the D500 is still one of the best tools for the job. For a deeper look at cameras specifically for wildlife photography, see our guide to the best safari cameras on Finding the Universe.

Weight: ~29.5 oz / 860g (body with battery and memory card)
Price: Check price on Amazon and on used camera sites like MPB and KEH

 

Budget Used DSLR Cameras (Under $500)

If you are just getting started with photography and want the most camera for the least money, these used DSLRs are hard to beat. All three produce excellent image quality and will teach you everything you need to know about photography.

13. Nikon D3500

Best for: The cheapest way into DSLR photography. Incredibly lightweight, amazing battery life.

The Nikon D3500 is discontinued, but used prices have dropped to the point where it is one of the best value cameras in any category. It has a 24.2MP APS-C sensor, 5fps burst shooting, Bluetooth, and a battery life of 1,550 shots, which is remarkable for a camera this small and light. The 18-55mm VR kit lens has image stabilization and is a decent starter lens.

It does not have a touchscreen, WiFi (only Bluetooth), or weather sealing. But as a camera to learn on, carry everywhere, and not worry about too much, it is hard to argue with.

Weight: ~14.6 oz / 414g (body with battery and memory card)
Price: Check price on Amazon and used on MPB and KEH

 

14. Nikon D5600

Best for: A step up from the D3500. Tilting touchscreen, better autofocus.

The Nikon D5600 shares the same excellent 24.2MP sensor as the D3500 but adds a tilting touchscreen, a slightly better autofocus system, WiFi and NFC connectivity, and a more ergonomic body with additional controls. If the D3500 is the bare-minimum way into Nikon DSLRs, the D5600 is the comfortable way in.

Used prices are a bit higher than the D3500 but still very reasonable. It is a solid camera that many photographers used happily for years and it continues to produce great results.

Weight: ~16.4 oz / 464g (body with battery and memory card)
Price: Check price on Amazon and used on MPB

 

15. Canon EOS Rebel SL3 (EOS 250D)

Best for: Canon beginners. One of the smallest DSLRs ever made, with 4K video and a touchscreen.

The Canon Rebel SL3 (EOS 250D in Europe) is one of the smallest and lightest DSLRs ever made. It has a 24.2MP APS-C sensor, a movable touchscreen, 4K video support, 5fps burst shooting, and a very good 1,630-shot battery life. Canon’s Guided mode makes it particularly easy to learn.

New stock is essentially gone and the remaining new prices are inflated. But used, the SL3 is very affordable and is an excellent entry point for anyone who wants to start with Canon.

Weight: ~15.8 oz / 449g (body with battery and memory card)
Price: Check price used on Amazon and MPB

 

 

Tips for Getting the Best Photos with a DSLR Camera

A camera is a tool, and like any tool, the results depend on the person using it. Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your DSLR.

Learn the Basics of Composition

Composition is how you arrange the elements in your frame, and it makes more difference to the quality of your photos than any piece of gear. Techniques like the rule of thirds, leading lines, and framing are universal and apply to every camera. We have a detailed guide to photography composition on Finding the Universe that covers the fundamentals.

Learn How to Use Your Camera

A DSLR gives you far more control than a smartphone or compact camera, but that control takes time to learn. If you leave your DSLR in full auto mode, you may find the results are not much different from your phone. The advantage comes when you start to use manual and semi-automatic modes to control exposure, depth of field, and focus.

Start by reading the manual (or at least the quick start guide), then look up tutorials specific to your camera model. We have a beginner’s guide for DSLR cameras that walks through the main settings and functions. Laurence also runs an online travel photography course that covers everything from basic camera operation to advanced techniques.

Shoot in RAW and Learn to Edit

One of the biggest advantages of a DSLR over a phone is the ability to shoot in RAW format. RAW files contain much more image data than JPEGs, which gives you far more flexibility when editing, from recovering blown-out skies to pulling detail out of shadows.

RAW files need to be processed in editing software before you can share them. Our go-to recommendation is Adobe Lightroom, but there are many options at different price points. See our guide to photo editing software for a comparison of current options.

Pick Up Some Useful Accessories

Here are the accessories I would recommend for any DSLR camera setup:

• Extra batteries. DSLRs have great battery life compared to mirrorless cameras, so one spare should be enough for most full photography days. In cold weather, batteries drain faster, and you can check out these cold weather photography tips for advice on dealing with that.
• Memory cards. Get at least one high-capacity, fast card. We use and recommend these memory cards.
• A camera strap. A comfortable strap makes a big difference when you are carrying a camera all day. We use Peak Design straps and highly recommend them. See our review of Peak Design straps for more.
• A camera bag or case. Something protective that will fit your camera plus a spare battery and memory cards. Here are some camera bag options.
• Cleaning supplies. A microfiber cloth and a blower/brush for keeping your lens and sensor clean.
• Weather protection. If your camera is not weather sealed, a waterproof case or weatherproof sleeve is good insurance.
• A tripod. Useful for low-light photography, long exposures, and better photos of yourself. A compact option like the Peak Design Travel Tripod can fit in a backpack. See our travel tripod guide for more options.
• Lenses. The kit lens will get you started, but over time you may want to invest in better glass. See our guide to the best lenses for travel photography.

Consider Taking a Photography Course

Like any skill, photography takes practice. If you want structured learning with personalized feedback, Laurence has created an online travel photography course that has helped over 1,000 photographers improve their skills. It covers everything from the basics of using your camera through to advanced editing and techniques.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are DSLR cameras still worth buying in 2026?

For specific buyers, yes. DSLRs produce the same image quality as mirrorless cameras with equivalent sensors, and the used market means you can get professional-grade bodies and lenses at a fraction of their original price. If you already own DSLR lenses, want the best battery life, prefer an optical viewfinder, or are working with a tight budget, a DSLR can be a smart purchase.

For most first-time camera buyers, a mirrorless camera is a better choice in 2026. Mirrorless cameras are lighter, have better autofocus, and all new development is happening in mirrorless systems.

What is the best DSLR camera for photography?

The Nikon D850 is arguably the best DSLR ever made and is available at excellent used prices. For Canon shooters, the Canon 6D Mark II offers a great balance of image quality, weight, and features for most photography situations. If you want a new DSLR rather than used, the Pentax KF is the best value option.

Should I buy a DSLR or mirrorless camera for travel?

For most people buying a camera in 2026, mirrorless is the better choice. Mirrorless cameras are generally lighter, have faster autofocus, and all new cameras and lenses are being developed for mirrorless systems. The main reasons to choose a DSLR are if you already own DSLR lenses, if you prioritize battery life, or if you want to take advantage of the low used prices to get a lot of camera for your money.

What are the advantages of a DSLR over a mirrorless camera?

The main advantages are battery life (DSLRs typically get 2 to 3 times more shots per charge), optical viewfinder (which some photographers prefer), and cost on the used market. DSLR-compatible lenses are also much cheaper used than their mirrorless equivalents, which means the total cost of a DSLR system is often significantly lower.

Where is the best place to buy a used DSLR camera?

Specialist used camera dealers like KEH and MPB inspect, grade, and warranty their equipment, which makes them safer than buying from individual sellers. Amazon Renewed is another option for cameras that have been tested and come with a warranty. B&H Photo and Adorama also sell used equipment. For more detailed buying advice, see our guide to buying used cameras and photography gear.

Is it worth buying a used DSLR in 2026?

Used DSLRs represent some of the best value in photography right now. As photographers upgrade to mirrorless, excellent DSLR bodies and lenses are flooding the used market at low prices. A used full-frame DSLR with a good lens can cost less than a new entry-level mirrorless body alone, while producing comparable or better image quality.

What DSLR camera does Laurence use for travel photography?

Laurence owns two Canon 6D bodies (the original model) which served as his primary travel cameras for years. He still uses them as secondary cameras alongside his Canon EOS R5 mirrorless. His first DSLR was a Canon EOS 400D back in 2008. If he were replacing his 6D bodies with another DSLR today, he would buy the Canon 6D Mark II.

Are Canon or Nikon DSLRs better for photography?

Both make excellent cameras and the differences are relatively minor. Canon’s color science tends to produce warmer tones that many photographers prefer for portraits and people. Nikon’s sensors historically have better dynamic range, which benefits landscape photographers. The most practical consideration is whether you already own lenses for one system. If not, both are great choices and you should pick the one that feels better in your hand.

And that’s it for our guide to the best DSLR cameras for photography in 2026! We hope you found it useful. If you have any questions about choosing a DSLR, a mirrorless camera, or any other photography gear, just let us know in the comments below.