Editor's Choice - Our Favorite Compact DSLR Cameras
1. Nikon D3500 DX-Format DSLR Two Lens Kit with AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR & AF-P DX NIKKOR 7...
User Ratings: 83 5
Nikon First Impressions
"Now about this Camera."It sucks up way more battery life than the D7100/D7200. Everything was fine with the kit - great value! The battery that does come with the camera lasts a long time. The LCD screen is easy to see on bright sunny days. The camera is highly capable and flexible.
- Nikon D3500 DX-Format DSLR Two Lens Kit with AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR & AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED, Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop + Lightroom) 12-Month Subscription
- A DSLR that's as easy to use as a point-and-shoot camera paired with the power of Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom 12-month subscription
- Compact, comfortable design that's great for travel and special events
- Image sensor that's 15x larger than those used in typical smartphones for sharper, clearer pictures
- Works with Nikon Snap Bridge app for sharing photos with a compatible smartphone or tablet
- 1080P Full HD videos with monaural sound at the touch of a button
- Transform your photos with Photoshops advance editing and compsiting features paired with Lightroom to organize, store and share full-resolution photos anywhere
- Editor's Impressions Of The Nikon
- Battery Life
- Picture Quality
- Ergonomics
- Quality
- Value For Money
- Affordability
Nikon Final Thoughts
"Now onto the bundle."I got it at the best price for this kit. This, in my opinion is a great camera to start learning on. And because it is older, you can get it cheaper. I shot video of my 5 year old son riding his bike today. I take pictures of houses occasionally and this has worked really well.
Overall Score
4.6
(1315 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Peoples Choice - Other Highly Rated Compact DSLR Cameras
2. Nikon D3500 DX-Format DSLR Two Lens Kit with AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR & AF-P DX NIKKOR 7...
User Ratings: 83 5
Nikon 1588 First Impressions
"Great lens!"It sucks up way more battery life than the D7100/D7200. I mean, I still shoot film with my old F3 and FE and push film. However, once I saw the images files I was hooked. Very versatile and swiftly configurable. It has a very similar look to a high end smartphone screen.
- Nikon D3500 DX-Format DSLR Two Lens Kit with AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR & AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED, Black
- A DSLR that's as easy to use as a point and shoot camera
- Compact, comfortable design that's great for travel and special events
- Image sensor that's 15x larger than those used in typical smartphones for sharper, clearer pictures
- Works with Nikon Snap Bridge app for sharing photos with a compatible smartphone or tablet
- 1080P Full HD videos with monaural sound at the touch of a button
- Batteries: 1 Lithium ion batteries required. (included)
- Editor's Impressions Of The Nikon 1588
- Battery Life
- Picture Quality
- Ergonomics
- Quality
- Value For Money
- Affordability
Nikon 1588 Final Thoughts
"Low light performance."This is an excellent camera for beginners. However on contacting Nikon about it, they sent us a memory card. The camera is highly capable and flexible. The colors of course are very good as expected, and here is a surprise. I got it at the best price for this kit.
Overall Score
4.6
(1315 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
3. Nikon D3500 W/ AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Black
User Ratings: 83 5
Nikon 1590 First Impressions
"Solid deal."The extra batteries don't work all that well. I use it as a backup camera to my Canon 7D mark II. It sucks up way more battery life than the D7100/D7200. I shot video of my 5 year old son riding his bike today. Very versatile and swiftly configurable.
- Nikon D3500 W/ AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR Black
- A DSLR That's as easy to use as a point and shoot camera
- Compact, comfortable design That's great for travel and Special events
- Image sensor That's 15x larger than those Used in Typical smartphones for sharper, clearer pictures
- Works with Nikon's snapbridge app for sharing photos with a compatible smartphone or tablet
- 1080P full HD videos with monaural sound at the touch of a button.Bluetooth Version 4.1
- Batteries: 1 Lithium ion batteries required. (included)
- Editor's Impressions Of The Nikon 1590
- Battery Life
- Picture Quality
- Ergonomics
- Quality
- Value For Money
- Affordability
Nikon 1590 Final Thoughts
"On and on."I mean, I still shoot film with my old F3 and FE and push film. I love this camera a lot so far! I finally decided I liked the features of the Nikon line. It has a great feel, not too heavy but still substantial. I am also a white balance and color nut.
Overall Score
4.6
(1315 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
4. Nikon D750 FX-format Digital SLR Camera w/ 24-120mm f/4G ED VR Auto Focus-S NIKKOR Lens
User Ratings: 85 4
Nikon 1549 First Impressions
"Taking pictures!"I take pictures of houses occasionally and this has worked really well. Great camera, great bundle and fast shipping. I take pictures of houses occasionally and this has worked really well. I really love the features on this body. I take pictures of houses occasionally and this has worked really well.
- Nikon D750 FX-format Digital SLR Camera w/ 24-120mm f/4G ED VR Auto Focus-S NIKKOR Lens
- Full frame 24.3 megapixel CMOS image sensor and EXPEED 4 image processor
- Full HD 60/50/30/25/24p video
- Built in Wi Fi connectivity and compatibility with the WT 5a + UT 1 Communication Unit
- Shoot up to 6.5 fps at full resolution.If shutter release disabled aperture ring for CPU lens not locked at highest f number does not apply to type G and E lenses
- Pro Video feature set including: Simultaneously record uncompressed and compressed, Manually control ISO, shutter speed and aperture while recording—even use Power Aperture control for smooth iris transitions and Auto ISO for smooth exposure transitions.
- Compact, lightweight and slim unibody (monocoque) body design with tilting Vari angle LCD display
- Batteries: 1 Lithium ion batteries required. (included)
- Editor's Impressions Of The Nikon 1549
- Battery Life
- Picture Quality
- Ergonomics
- Quality
- Value For Money
- Affordability
Nikon 1549 Final Thoughts
"LCD screen."The colors of course are very good as expected, and here is a surprise. This is the best Compact DSLR Camera and I love it! However, once I saw the images files I was hooked. I have really enjoyed putting this lens through its paces. The camera is highly capable and flexible.
Overall Score
4.7
(891 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
Honorable Mentions - More Top Selling Compact DSLR Cameras
5. Nikon D750 FX-format Digital SLR Camera w/ 24-120mm f/4G ED VR Auto Focus-S NIKKOR with 50mm f/1.8G ...
User Ratings: 85 4
Nikon First Impressions
"For personal use."I use it with my one year old Nikon lens. Servo is accurate enough to keep it on. I love all the accessories included with my new Nikon camera. Servo is accurate enough to keep it on. This is the best Compact DSLR Camera and I love it!
- Nikon D750 FX-format Digital SLR Camera w/ 24-120mm f/4G ED VR Auto Focus-S NIKKOR with 50mm f/1.8G Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras
- Full frame 24.3 megapixel CMOS image sensor and EXPEED 4 image processor
- Full HD 60/50/30/25/24p video
- Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity and compatibility with the WT-5a + UT-1 Communication Unit
- Fast, upgraded f/1.8, compact FX-format prime lens
- Focal Length-50 mm, Minimum Focus Distance-1.48 ft.(0.45 m)
- Newly developed optical system with Aspherical lens element, Exclusive Nikon Silent Wave Motor (SWM)
- Editor's Impressions Of The Nikon
- Battery Life
- Picture Quality
- Ergonomics
- Quality
- Value For Money
- Affordability
Nikon Final Thoughts
"Photos are great."I can see using this for years before I would feel the need to upgrade. The body is well balanced when using the large Art series of lenses. This lens is a good complement to the existing ones I have. The pictures were clear and a came out great. It is worth the trade-off when doing astro-photography.
Overall Score
4.7
(891 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
6. Nikon D750 FX-format Digital SLR Camera Body
User Ratings: 85 4
Nikon 1543 First Impressions
"Low light performance."I can see using this for years before I would feel the need to upgrade. I compared features for months before deciding to go with this Compact DSLR Camera. The camera is highly capable and flexible. This camera has paid for itself 20 times over and it keeps on giving! Some of the extra items are not useful.
- Nikon D750 FX-format Digital SLR Camera Body
- Full frame 243 megapixel CMOS image sensor and EXPEED 4 image processor
- Full HD 60/50/30/25/24p video
- Built in Wi Fi connectivity and compatibility with the WT 5a + UT 1 Communication Unit
- Shoot up to 65 fps at full resolution Frame size (pixels) : 1920 x 1080
- Pro Video feature set including: Simultaneously record uncompressed and compressed, Manually control ISO, shutter speed and aperture while recording—even use Power Aperture control for smooth iris transitions and Auto ISO for smooth exposure transitions
- Compact, lightweight and slim unibody (monocoque) body design with tilting Vari angle LCD display
- Batteries: 1 Lithium ion batteries required. (included)
- Editor's Impressions Of The Nikon 1543
- Battery Life
- Picture Quality
- Ergonomics
- Quality
- Value For Money
- Affordability
Nikon 1543 Final Thoughts
"On the Nikon 1543."So pleased with all the features. It has a great feel, not too heavy but still substantial. It sucks up way more battery life than the D7100/D7200. I love the camera and the bundle is OK. I compared features for months before deciding to go with this Compact DSLR Camera.
Overall Score
4.7
(891 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
7. Nikon D750 FX-format Digital SLR Camera Body with AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Lens with Auto Focus fo...
User Ratings: 85 4
Nikon First Impressions
"Learning curve."So pleased with all the features. The software also defaults to save your original pic. This Nikon is built tough. So overall the build quality is nice on the Nikon . Great Compact DSLR Camera package my kids love it!
- Nikon D750 FX-format Digital SLR Camera Body with AF-S FX NIKKOR 50mm f/1.8G Lens with Auto Focus for Nikon DSLR Cameras
- Full frame 24.3 megapixel CMOS image sensor and EXPEED 4 image processor
- Full HD 60/50/30/25/24p video
- Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity and compatibility with the WT-5a + UT-1 Communication Unit
- Fast, upgraded f/1.8, compact FX-format prime lens
- Focal Length-50 mm, Minimum Focus Distance-1.48 ft.(0.45 m)
- Newly developed optical system with Aspherical lens element, Exclusive Nikon Silent Wave Motor (SWM)
- Editor's Impressions Of The Nikon
- Battery Life
- Picture Quality
- Ergonomics
- Quality
- Value For Money
- Affordability
Nikon Final Thoughts
"I do love the camera."Many more options than available to entry level models. Though I have nothing to complain about the Nikon . It is worth the trade-off when doing astro-photography. Love the camera and accessories that came with this kit. Though I have nothing to complain about the Nikon .
Overall Score
4.7
(891 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
8. Nikon D5500 DX-format Digital SLR Dual Lens Kit w/ - Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR & Ni...
User Ratings: 80 5
Nikon 13530 First Impressions
"It doesn't feel cheap."It has a great feel, not too heavy but still substantial. The battery that does come with the camera lasts a long time. It sucks up way more battery life than the D7100/D7200. I have not used the remote yet so I can't comment on that. However, once I saw the images files I was hooked.
- Nikon D5500 DX-format Digital SLR Dual Lens Kit w/ - Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR & Nikon AF-P DX NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3G ED Lens
- 24.2-megapixel image sensor with no optical low-pass filter for staggering sharpness
- Compact design with swiveling touchscreen Vary-angle LCD display
- Built-in Wi-Fi connectivity for instant photo sharing with a compatible smartphone or tablet
- Full HD 1080/60p video recording with advanced movie features
- Creative in-camera filters and effects, built-in HDR, time lapse, interval shooting and more
- Batteries: 1 Lithium ion batteries required. (included)
- Editor's Impressions Of The Nikon 13530
- Battery Life
- Picture Quality
- Ergonomics
- Quality
- Value For Money
- Affordability
Nikon 13530 Final Thoughts
"Plenty of features."If you are a point and shoot person forget it here. First off, I did purchase this because I needed it for a class. I love this camera a lot so far! I shot video of my 5 year old son riding his bike today. Great Compact DSLR Camera package my kids love it!
Overall Score
4.5
(568 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
9. Panasonic Lumix G7KS 4K Mirrorless Camera, 16 Megapixel Digital Camera, 14-42 mm Lens Kit, DMC-G7KS
User Ratings: 76 5
Panasonic DMC-G7KS First Impressions
"The camera is awesome."I shot video of my 5 year old son riding his bike today. Took this camera on our family vacation to Utah national parks. Everything was fine with the kit - great value! I took a 3 hour workshop on how to use the camera and I am good to go. I love the camera and the bundle is OK.
- Panasonic Lumix G7KS 4K Mirrorless Camera, 16 Megapixel Digital Camera, 14-42 mm Lens Kit, DMC-G7KS
- Superb DSLM image quality without the bulk and weight of traditional DSLRs
- Never miss a photo with three unique 4K ultra HD video pause and save 4K photo modes
- Fast and precise auto focusing tracks the subject; Focus mode AFS (single) / AFF (flexible) / AFC (continuous) / MF, AF mode face/eye detection / tracking / 49 area / custom Multi / 1 area / pinpoint
- Class leading, ultra compact, interchangeable lens and accessory option; HDMI: microHDMI TypeD / VIERA Link,video: Auto / 4K / 1080p / 1080i / 720p / 480p, Audio: stereo
- Unwire your creativity with integrated Wi Fi sharing
- Batteries: 1 Lithium ion batteries required. (included)
- Editor's Impressions Of The Panasonic DMC-G7KS
- Battery Life
- Picture Quality
- Ergonomics
- Quality
- Value For Money
- Affordability
Panasonic DMC-G7KS Final Thoughts
"It is short though."Camera, batteries and memory cards all top notch. The LCD screen is easy to see on bright sunny days. This all with my Panasonic DMC-G7KS. I use it with my one year old Panasonic lens. This Panasonic DMC-G7KS takes absolutely beautiful images!
Overall Score
4.5
(472 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON
10. Canon EOS M 18.0 MP Compact Systems Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD and EF-M18-55mm IS STM Lens
User Ratings: 67 4
Canon 6609B074 First Impressions
"The bundle is perfect."And because it is older, you can get it cheaper. I finally decided I liked the features of the Canon line. If you are a point and shoot person forget it here. I compared features for months before deciding to go with this Compact DSLR Camera. I took a 3 hour workshop on how to use the camera and I am good to go.
- Canon EOS M 18.0 MP Compact Systems Camera with 3.0-Inch LCD and EF-M18-55mm IS STM Lens
- 18.0 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor, DIGIC 5 Image Processor, ISO 100-12800; expandable to 25600 (H)
- Hybrid CMOS AF and Multi Shot Noise Reduction
- EOS Full HD Movie mode with Movie Servo AF for continuous focus tracking of moving subjects
- Compatible with Canon EF and EF-S lenses (Optional EF Lens Adapter is required)
- Compatibility with SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards, including new Ultra High Speed (UHS-I) cards
- Batteries: 1 Lithium ion batteries required.
- Editor's Impressions Of The Canon 6609B074
- Battery Life
- Picture Quality
- Ergonomics
- Quality
- Value For Money
- Affordability
Canon 6609B074 Final Thoughts
"Easy to carry."The difference is the excellent Canon lens. Great Compact DSLR Camera package my kids love it! Camera, batteries and memory cards all top notch. This is a great entry level camera. It sucks up way more battery life than the D7100/D7200.
Overall Score
4.4
(441 Points)
PRICE AVAILABLE ON AMAZON