Which Canon DSLR camera is best?
In the age of smartphones, digital cameras can seem like a thing of the past. However, if you’re serious about taking pictures or video, a DSLR camera is a must. And there’s no better way to get into high-tech cameras than by sticking to a trusted brand like Canon. Canon offers a wide range of DSLR cameras for novices and professionals alike.
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Full Frame Digital SLR is a great option with Wi-Fi capability for seamlessly transferring files to your phone to share.
What to know before you buy a Canon DSLR camera
What is a DSLR camera?
People throw around the term DSLR a lot, but few know much about digital single-lens reflex cameras. DSLRs use a swinging mirror to filter images into the camera’s sensor, thus capturing a digital still that’s saved to your memory card. Don’t confuse this with mirrorless cameras, which let light pass directly through to the sensor. DSLR cameras offer more access to lenses, easier-to-use viewfinders and better pictures.
Use
How you plan to use your Canon DSLR camera will help determine which camera is right for you. If you need it for professional use, you may want one of the higher-end cameras with a few lenses to keep on hand. However, you can also expect to spend a lot more on these. Alternatively, if you’re a hobby photographer just starting out or want to upgrade to a better camera, you might consider some of the more affordable options.
Full-frame vs. APS-C sensors
You can buy DSLR cameras with two different types of sensors. The most common sensor is a full-frame, which takes photos the same size as a classic 35-millimeter camera. The other sensor type you can find in a DSLR is an APS-C image sensor. APS-C sensors have a slightly smaller frame than full-frame sensors, and they offer less dynamic range as a result. Still, you may prefer cameras with APS-C sensors for their smaller size or more affordable price point.
What to look for in a quality Canon DSLR camera
Resolution
Canon tends to categorize its cameras by the resolution. Resolution refers to the number of pixels a sensor captures at once, with higher resolutions capturing more megapixels. If you plan to shoot video, you may want to consider what resolution video the DSLR camera captures. For example, many buyers prefer a camera that can capture 4K video resolutions, which isn’t supported by every DSLR.
ISO range
A camera’s ISO range refers to the amount of light a camera lets into the body. Wider ranges let photographers shoot in more versatile lighting conditions. If you plan to shoot photos in low light, you’ll want to find a DSLR camera with a high ISO sensitivity of at least 6,400.
Lenses and other accessories
While many high-end cameras are pricey on their own, you can’t get very far without certain accessories. Most importantly, you won’t be able to shoot without a camera lens. Consider buying a camera bundle with lenses and other accessories, such as memory cards, tripods, flash units and protective bags.
How much you can expect to spend on a Canon DSLR camera
You can find cheap Canon DSLR camera bodies for around $500. For bundles including lenses or Canon’s high-end cameras, you can expect to spend $1,000 to $3,500.
Canon DSLR camera FAQ
Do Canon DSLR cameras come with a lens?
A. Not necessarily. While some cameras come with a lens, others may only include the camera body. If you don’t already have a lens or don’t plan to buy one separately, you’ll need to purchase a camera bundle that includes a lens.
Can Canon DSLR cameras record 4K video?
A. Some of them can. If you plan to shoot 4K video, it’s important to make sure the camera you choose supports video recording at 4K resolutions before making your purchase.
What’s the best Canon DSLR camera to buy?
Top Canon DSLR camera
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Full Frame Digital SLR
What you need to know: This camera supports high-resolution video and offers Wi-Fi features for sharing your content instantly.
What you’ll love: With an impressive ISO range of 100 to 32,000, this camera works well even in low-light conditions. It can also shoot in 4K at 24 or 30 frames per second. It can shoot at 60 frames per second in HD resolution.
What you should consider: The camera is not water-resistant.
Top Canon DSLR camera for the money
Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera Two-Lens Kit
What you need to know: Great for beginners and content creators, this bundle comes with two lenses and a carrying case.
What you’ll love: It includes a standard EF18-55mm zoom lens and a telephoto 75-300mm zoom lens for capturing the action from far away. Featuring a large 24.1-megapixel CMOS sensor and speedy autofocus, it can record video and connects to Wi-Fi.
What you should consider: It can only shoot video in resolutions up to 1080p.
Worth checking out
Canon EOS 6D Mark II DSLR Camera
What you need to know: This camera offers excellent features in a durable, compact design.
What you’ll love: The camera boasts a 26.2-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor and can record FHD 1080p videos at 60 frames per second. A 6.5-frames-per-second continuous shooting rate lets you capture the action. This camera also includes Wi-Fi connectivity and a touch screen.
What you should consider: It lacks 4K video.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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