As and eager beginning photographer I'm following trends on new camera releases regularly, although proud owner of a Canon manufactured camera, I decided to take a look on what's new from Nikon in 2016.
Just recently Nikon released D500 flagship DX camera which seems a great rival to Canon 7D Mark II model, I believe more pro photographers this year will…
I bought my first digital SLR camera back in April 2015, I opted for a budget priced Canon Rebel T5 model (in Europe its branded under Canon 1200D name) - just immediately of this purchase I felt that my photography has improved a lot, latter in September I realized I'm still shooting in semi-automatic way in P mode, and I started a 365 days photo challenge to improve my photographer skills.
If you are planing to purchase your first DSRL camera, in this article I have listed Top 13 Best selling cameras for beginners of 2016 available on Amazon. All, but one camera from this list comes with a 18-55mm zoom lens (which is an industry standard for DSLR camera base configuration). If you are planing upgrading lens for your camera I have a great article for Canon mount lenses: Save 20% and More On Canon Mount Wide Angle Lenses (Rokinon, Samyang, Sigma, Bower) or compare different focal lengths here: Understanding focal length: Testing 18-55mm and 70-300mm lenses
Most beginner digital SLR cameras are in price range $500 +/- $100 with better ones (almost professional) reaching $1000 mark. I believe you wont be surprised to learn that there are just two major players in DSLR camera market, and I'm speaking of Canon and Nikon. Since I'm a proud owner of Canon camera I can recommend only Canon. But seriously speaking both are great cameras. If you are just starting into DSLR world - take some cheaper model under $500 no matter is it Canon or Nikon. You will love both of them.
A quick note: Please note this list contains affiliate links to Amazon.com, by clicking on links on this page and by making a purchase on Amazon site, I will earn an affiliate income from that. Prices for DSLR cameras listed on this page is retrieved by using Amazon Product Advertising API and is updated daily
Nikon D3300 24.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR with Auto Focus-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR II Zoom Lens (Black)
Capture every special moment in the lifelike quality it deserves--and have a great time doing it! With its included zoom lens, the new ultra-compact AF-S DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR II, the D3300 is a small, easy to use HD-SLR. Capture beautiful 24.2-MP photos and 1080p Full HD videos with vibrant colors and softly blurred backgrounds, then share them instantly with your compatible smartphone and the optional WU-1a Wireless Adapter. Whether you"re creating high-resolution panoramas, adding fun special effects or recording dazzling HD video with sound, the D3300 will bring you endless joy, excitement and memories--just like the special moments of your life.
- 24.2 MP CMOS DX-format sensor
- 5 frames per second continuous shooting
- 11 AF points with 3D tracking
- ISO 100-12800 (expandable to 25600)
- 1080 (60, 50, 30, 25, 24 fps) HD video (MPEG-4/H.264/MOV)
- 3 inch LCD with 921,000 dots
- Expeed 4 processing
- Easy panorama mode and beginner-friendly Guide mode
- Wi-Fi enabled with WU-1a Wireless Adapter and compatible smartphone or tablet (not included)
- SD/SDHC/SDXC memory
List price: $298.99 Buy this DSLR camera on Amazon
Canon EOS Rebel T5 EF-S 18-55mm IS II Digital SLR
Perfect for families, budding photo enthusiasts and first-time SLR users alike, the EOS Rebel T5 makes it easy to capture movies and photos that are nothing short of dazzling. It features a powerful 18.0 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) image sensor and Canon's DIGIC 4 Image Processor for easy recording of HD video and high-resolution photos and has a huge 3.0-inch LCD screen for Live View recording and review. With a 63-zone, Dual-layer metering system, an expanded ISO range for outstanding operation in less-than-perfect light, shooting modes like Scene Intelligent Auto to take the guesswork out of complex shots plus creative options like Canon's Basic+ function and Creative Auto, the EOS Rebel T5 is ready for anything. With a helpful Feature Guide, rugged, lightweight construction and proven Canon design, the EOS Rebel T5 makes EOS SLR photography faster and easier than ever!
- 18 megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor with DIGIC 4 image processor
- EF-S 18-55mm IS II standard zoom lens expands picture-taking possibilities
- 3-inch LCD TFT color, liquid-crystal monitor for easy viewing and sharing
- EOS 1080p full HD movie mode helps you capture brilliant results
- Features include continuous shooting up to 3fps, Scene Intelligent Auto mode, creative filers, built-in flash and feature guide
List price: $229.00 Buy this DSLR camera on Amazon
Canon EOS Rebel T5i EF-S 18-55 IS STM Kit
Photo enthusiasts rejoice! The new flagship of the spectacular Rebel Line, the EOS Rebel T5i, is here to renew your artistic side with amazing imaging features and full-featured functionality. Users will be impressed at how simple and intuitive it is to create breathtaking photos with ease. The incredible image quality and performance starts with an 18.0 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor and Canon's superb DIGIC 5 Image Processor. Combined with an extensive ISO range of 100–12800 (expandable to 25600 in H mode), the EOS Rebel T5i boasts crisp, detailed images, even in low-light situations. A continuous shooting speed of up to 5.0 fps allows for fast action capture. 9 cross-type AF focus points help ensure crisp focus throughout the frame, and the Hybrid CMOS AF system enables speedy and accurate autofocus when shooting in Live View mode. In addition, the camera is compatible with Canon STM lenses for smooth, quiet AF performance. And the performance doesn't stop with photos. EOS Full HD Movie mode with Movie Servo AF makes shooting high quality movies easy, and the brilliant Vari-angle Touch Screen 3.0-inch Clear View LCD monitor II makes composing fun. Seven Creative Filters, now viewable in real time, puts composition control directly in your hands and is just one of the many features of the EOS Rebel T5i that is sure to renew your creative soul.
- 18 MP APS-C CMOS sensor
- 5 FPS continuous shooting
- 9 point AF system, all cross type
- ISO 100-12800 (expandable to 25600)
- 1080 (30, 25, 24 fps) and 720 (60, 50 fps) HD video (29min limit, H.264 format)
- 3" articulating touch panel LCD screen with 1,040,000 dots
- Movie Servo AF for continuous focus tracking of moving subjects
- Integrated speedlite transmitter
- Multi Shot Noise Reduction for better detail when shooting with high ISOs
- GPS compatible with the GP-E2 (sold separately)
List price: $325.00 Buy this DSLR camera on Amazon
Nikon D7000 16.2 Megapixel Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm Lens (Black)
Meet the Nikon D7000, a camera ready to go wherever your photography or cinematography takes you. Experience stunning images with sharp resolution and smooth tonal gradation, thanks to the 16-megapixel DX-format CMOS image sensor and a powerful EXPEED 2 image processing engine. Take advantage of its wide ISO range of 100 to 6400 (expandable to 25,600) and its incredibly low levels of noise. Expect your images tack-sharp and accurately exposed, thanks to the camera’s 39-point AF and Scene Recognition System using a 2,016-pixel RGB matrix metering sensor. And with an approx. 0.052-second release time lag and approx. 6 frames-per-second shooting, you won’t miss a moment.
- High Resolution 16.2 MP DX-format CMOS sensor
- High Speed 6 frames per second continuous shooting up to 100 shots
- Breathtaking Full 1080p HD Movies with Full Time Autofocus
- Dynamic ISO range from 100 to 6400
- Ground-breaking 2,016-pixel RGB (3D Color Matrix) exposure sensor
List price: Buy this DSLR camera on Amazon
Canon EOS 70D Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm STM Lens
The Canon 8469B009 EOS 70D 20.2MP Digital SLR Camera Body plus EF-S 18-55mm IS STM Standard Zoom Lens features an APS-C CMOS sensor and DIGIC 5+ image processor to ensure high-resolution images and excellent low-light sensitivity. Both the sensor and processor work together to produce well-detailed, clear imagery that exhibits natural tonality and color gradations with minimal noise when working in difficult lighting conditions. The processor also provides notable speed throughout the camera system, including the ability to record up to 7 fps in full-resolution, quickened AF speeds, and full HD 1080p video recording. The 3.0-inch Clear View II touchscreen LCD monitor profits greatly from the advent Dual Pixel CMOS AF system and its ability to utilize Touch AF focusing for finely controlled selection of the point of focus. The monitor's vari-angle design also enables more efficient shooting and viewing from both high and low angles and an anti-reflective, smudge-resistant coating allows for clear well-detailed viewing. The included 18-55mm IS STM standard zoom lens features the optics, AF and image stabilization necessary for shooting in any number of situations.
- 20.2 MP APS-C CMOS sensor and DIGIC 5+
- 19 point cross-type AF System
- Up to 7 fps shooting
- ISO 100-12800, expandable to 25600
- Dual Pixel CMOS AF for fast focus in live view and video
- 3" articulating touch panel LCD screen with 1,040,000 dots
- Built-in flash with integrated speedlite transmitter and hot shoe
- Intelligent viewfinder with electronic overlay
- 1080 (30, 25, 24 fps) and 720 (60, 50 fps) HD video (H.264/MPEG-4/MOV)
- Instant sharing and remote control with built-in Wi-Fi and EOS Remote app
- GPS compatible (sold separately)
- Full manual mode in video
- Built-in stereo or external microphone terminal
- SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card
List price: Buy this DSLR camera on Amazon
Nikon D7100 24.1 MP DX-Format CMOS Digital SLR with 18-105mm f/3.5-5.6 Auto Focus-S DX VR ED Nikkor Lens
Unleash the power of Nikon's DX-format HD-SLR system.
Meet the new flagship of Nikon's outstanding DX-format HD-SLR line-up: the D7100. Incorporating recent advancements in HD-SLR technology, the D7100 brings a thrilling new level of image quality, speed, connectivity and creative capabilities—a specially designed 24.1-megapixel DX-format image sensor, superior low-light performance, ultra-precise autofocus and metering, advanced video recording features, built-in HDR, mobile connectivity and much, much more. Pair it with any of Nikon's superb NIKKOR DX- and FX-format lenses, versatile Speedlights and accessories, and the D7100 will be the centerpiece of your creativity for years to come.
- 24MP DX-format CMOS sensor
- 51-point AF system (15 cross type) with 3D tracking and 3D matrix metering
- 6 frames per second continuous shooting
- ISO 100-6400, expandable to 25600
- 3.2" LCD with 1,229,000 dots
- 1080 (60, 50, 25, 24 fps) and 720 (60, 50 fps) HD video (H.264/MPEG-4)
- New 'spot white balance' feature lets you select an area of the scene to reference
- Wi-Fi (for sharing and remote camera control) and GPS compatible (sold separately)
- 12- and 14-bit Raw shooting
- Dual SD card slots
- 100% viewfinder
List price: Buy this DSLR camera on Amazon
Canon EOS Rebel SL1 Digital SLR with 18-55mm STM Lens
As the world's smallest and lightest digital SLR*, the new EOS Rebel SL1 is small in size but enormous in performance. With a newly-designed Canon 18.0 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor and speedy Canon DIGIC 5 Image Processor, it delivers images of extraordinary quality – ideal for those stepping up from a smartphone or compact camera. An impressive ISO range of 100–12800 (expandable to H: 25600) for stills and 100–6400 (expandable to H: 12800) for video plus up to 4.0 fps continuous shooting make this camera the go-to for any photo opportunity, even in dim lighting or when capturing fast action subjects. And Hybrid CMOS AF II delivers accurate AF tracking during Live View shooting, helping ensure your photos and movies are crisp and clear. The EOS Rebel SL1 makes amazing movies with Canon EOS Full HD Movie Mode with Movie Servo AF, working in concert with Canon STM lenses for smooth and quiet continuous AF. In addition to its Optical Viewfinder, the EOS Rebel SL1 has a bright, wide Touch Screen 3.0" Clear View LCD monitor II, perfect for viewing a number of special scene modes and Creative Filters available in real-time display. Here is the DSLR you'll want to bring with you everyday and ignite your imagination!
- 18 MP APS-C CMOS sensor
- 4 FPS continuous shooting
- 9 point AF system, center AF point is cross-type
- ISO 100-12800 (expandable to 25600)
- 1080 (30, 25, 24 fps) and 720 (60, 50 fps) HD video (29min limit, H.264 format)
- 3" touch panel LCD screen with 1,040,000 dots
- Movie Servo AF for continuous focus tracking of moving subjects
- Special scene modes for shooting kids, food, by candlelight, and creative filters
- GPS compatible with the GP-E2 (sold separately)
List price: Buy this DSLR camera on Amazon
Canon EOS Rebel T3i Digital SLR Camera with EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS Lens
The Canon 5169B003 includes the EOS Rebel T3i Digital SLR Camera and EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS type II Lens. This camera and lens will help photographers who are looking for an easy-to-use camera to create their next masterpiece. The next in a long line of phenomenal compact DSLRs, the EOS Rebel T3i continues the Rebel tradition of easy operation, compact design and no-compromise performance. Featuring Canon's newest DIGIC 4 Image Processor and an 18.0 Megapixel CMOS Image Sensor plus cutting-edge technologies like Full HD video recording, Live View shooting, Wireless flash photography and even a Vari-angle 3.0-inch LCD monitor, the EOS Rebel T3i offers the best of EOS photography in a compact package.What’s in the box: Canon EOS Rebel T3i Digital Camera Kit, EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II Autofocus Lens, Eyecup Ef for Digital Rebel Cameras, LP-E8 Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack (7.2V, 1120mAh), LC-E8E Battery Charger, Wide Strap, USB Interface Cable IFC-130U, AVC DC400ST Stereo AV Cable, EOS Digital Solution Disk, Software Instruction Manual CD-ROM, Camera Instruction Manual and 1-Year Limited Warranty.
- 18MP APS-C CMOS sensor, 9-point AF system
- 3.7 frames per second continuous shooting
- ISO 100-6400 expandable to 12800
- 1080p HD video recording with manual controls
List price: Buy this DSLR camera on Amazon
Nikon D3200 24.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 Auto Focus-S DX VR NIKKOR Zoom Lens (Black)
Don’t let the D3200’s compact size and price fool you—packed inside this easy to use HD-SLR is serious Nikon.power: a 24.2 MP DX-format CMOS sensor that excels in any light, EXPEED 3 image-processing for fast operation and creative in-camera effects, Full HD (1080p) movie recording, in-camera tutorials and much more. What does this mean for you? Simply stunning photos and videos in any setting. And now, with Nikon’s optional Wireless Mobile Adapter, you can share those masterpieces instantly with your Smartphone or tablet easily. Supplied Accessories: EN-EL14 Rechargeable Li-ion Battery, MH-24 Quick Charger, EG-CP14 Audio/Video Cable, UC-E6 USB Cable, DK-20 Rubber Eyecup, AN-DC3 Camera Strap, DK-5 Eyepiece Cap, BF-1B Body Cap, BS-1 Accessory Shoe Cover and Nikon View NX CD-ROM.1-Year Nikon U.S.A. Warranty.
- 24MP CMOS DX-format sensor
- 4 frames per second continuous shooting
- 11 AF points (with 3D tracking)
- ISO 100-6400 (plus ISO 12,800-equivalent Hi1 setting)
- Full HD 1080p video
- 3.0 inch LCD with 920,000 dots
- Expeed 3 processing
- Microphone input
- Twin IR remote receivers
- Beginner-friendly Guide mode
List price: Buy this DSLR camera on Amazon
Nikon D5200 24.1 MP CMOS Digital SLR with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AF-S DX VR NIKKOR Zoom Lens (Black)
Transforming everyday sights into images that move us.
Shooting photos and videos is about more than capturing memories. A great camera brings your creative vision to life with striking clarity. The Nikon D5200 is exactly that type of camera—an exceptional HD-SLR designed to draw exciting new perspectives out of everyone who shoots it. Optimized for creativity, streamlined for flexibility, it'll awaken your passion and inspire some of the most spectacular photos and videos you've ever captured.
- 24MP DX-format CMOS sensor
- 39-point (9 cross type) dynamic area AF system with 3D tracking
- Up to 5 frames per second continuous shooting
- 1080p 30FPS HD video (1080p, 60i) with full-time contrast-detect AF
- ISO 100-6400, expandable to 25,600 equivalent
- 3 inch vari-angle LCD with 921,000 dots
- Wi-Fi (for sharing and remote camera control) and GPS compatible (sold separately)
List price:
Buy this DSLR camera on Amazon
Nikon D3100 DSLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 Auto Focus-S Nikkor Zoom Lens
Nikon's affordable, compact and lightweight D3100 digital SLR features a high-resolution 14-megapixel CMOS DX sensor, high-quality 3x NIKKOR 18-55mm VR image stabilization zoom lens and intuitive onboard assistance including the learn-as-you grow Guide Mode.Capture beautiful pictures and amazing Full HD 1080p movies with sound and full-time autofocus. Easily capture the action other cameras miss with a fast start up time, split-second shutter release, 3 frames per second shooting and 11-point autofocus.Lens: 5-Year Warranty (1-Year International + 4-Year USA Extension).
- 14.2 megapixel DX-format CMOS sensor
- 3.0 inch LCD with 230,000 dots
- 1080p HD video with full-time AF
- 11 AF points (with 3D tracking)
- IS0 100-3200 range (12800 expanded)
- RAW + JPEG shooting
List price: $429.25 Buy this DSLR camera on Amazon
Nikon D5500 DX-format Digital SLR w/ 18-55mm VR II Kit (Black)
Get more creative than ever. Flip out the touchscreen Vari-angle display, find an exciting new perspective and capture it as an ultra-sharp 24.2-megapixel photo. Flick a switch and start recording Full HD 1080 video at a high-speed frame rate of 60p, which is great for fast action and ultra-smooth slow motion. Break free of the ordinary with artistic filters and effects, built-in HDR capabilities, time lapse photography, outstanding low-light capabilities and much more. You won't even have to wait to share your creations built-in Wi-Fi means you can share your images anywhere, anytime.
- 24.2 MP DX-format CMOS sensor with no optical low-pass filter (OLPF)
- 39-point Autofocus (AF) system
- 5 frames per second continuous shooting
- ISO 100 - 25,600
- High resolution, vari-angle LCD with familiar, smartphone-like touchscreen for easy use
- 1080/60p HD video capabilities allow for capture of fast-moving subjects or creating slow motion effects
- Built-in Wi-Fi and smartphone compatibility for instant sharing
List price: Buy this DSLR camera on Amazon
Nikon D5300 24.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G ED VR II Auto Focus-S DX NIKKOR Zoom Lens (Black)
Dazzling image quality meets modern connectivity with built-in Wi-Fi® for instant photo sharing and remote camera control and built-in GPS with mapping for geotagging and tracking your adventures. An innovative new 24.2-megapixel image sensor captures the purest, most lifelike photos and 1080p Full HD videos imaginable, and a brilliant 3.2-inch swiveling Vari-angle display delivers beautiful views from any angle—all in a compact, sleek design.
- 24MP DX-format CMOS sensor with no optical low-pass filter
- 39-point AF system with 3D tracking and 3D matrix metering II
- 5 frames per second continuous shooting
- ISO 100 - 12800 (Expandable to 25600)
- 3.2" Vari-angle LCD with 1,037,000 dots
- 1080 (60p, 30p, 24p) and 720 (60p, 50p) HD video (H.264/MPEG-4)
- Built-in Wi-Fi (for sharing and remote camera control) and GPS
- Raw and Raw+ JPG shooting
- SD/SDHC/SDXC memory
List price: