Best Digital SLR Camera in 2023 – Digital SLR Camera Reviews

Best Digital SLR Camera in 2023 – Digital SLR Camera Reviews

Best Digital SLR Camera

With all of the different digital SLR cameras available, choosing one can be a real challenge. We’re going to give you a head start by highlighting the top rated digital SLR cameras on the market.

Introduction to the Digital SLR Camera Reviews

Digital SLR cameras have become increasingly popular over the years, all but replacing the traditional SLR cameras of decades ago. Nearly everyone has a camera of some kind these days and taking pictures has become even more of a pastime among people of all ages thanks to the social media “sharing” craze that involves selfies and taking pics of everything from what you’re having for dinner to special occasions or cute animals.

Not everyone who takes pictures will want a digital SLR but once you learn about them you may decide that this is exactly the kind of camera you want. There are a lot of things you can do with a digital SLR camera and the features that many of them have give the user a lot of flexibility and variety.

We have reviewed the top ranted digital SLR cameras below so you can see what features they offer and what makes them the top rated in the market. Continue reading below to learn about three cameras that are customer favorites.

Top Ranked Digital SLR Cameras

Canon EOS Rebel T5 18MP EF-S Digital SLR Camera

Why is it the Top Pick?

The Canon EOS Rebel T5 encompasses the bare necessities of digital SLR camera and includes an 18MP sensor, full HD video that is 1080p, and a 3” LCD screen.

This is the perfect choice for a beginning photographer or someone who just wants to take pictures for fun but has no real seriousness to what they’re doing.

The T5 hasn’t really changed very much from the T3 which could disappoint those looking for something upgraded, but if you’re looking for a DSLR camera that will take clear, good quality pictures and some good quality video then you’re covered. It has a textured grip and light weight along with a black matte body that is very easy to hold onto and feels good in your hand.

You can change the lenses on this camera if you choose to which will give you a bit more flexibility when you’re traveling or if you’re just starting to learn about how to take pictures.  The camera is easy to learn how to use which makes it good for a younger person as well who is maybe interested in photography but is not sure whether it’s a career pursuit or not.  This particular model comes with a lot of great accessories that you will get a lot of use out of.

Nikon D3200 24.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm and 55-200mm Non-VR DX Zoom Lenses Bundle

Why is it a Top Pick?

The unrivaled 24.2MP DX format CMOS sensor creates incredibly clear and beautiful photos and provides full HD 1080p movies no matter what light you’re dealing with.  It provides true high definition, SLR performance with point and shoot ease making it a good choice for beginning photographers.

Nikon has exclusive image sensors with the D3200 having the most powerful CMOS sensor that Nikon has ever used in a high definition SLR.   You will even surprise yourself with how great the pictures and videos you take will look.

You can do some continuous shooting sequences at 4 frames per second which is great for certain subjects.  It’s always fun to play around with the different capabilities of this camera and see what it can really do.  The guide is very helpful and really teaches you to get the most out of the camera.

Nikon is another well know iconic name in the camera industry and this camera continues their commitment to quality and crisp clear pictures and video that you will be proud to share.  The Nikon D3200 comes with several accessories and a couple of extra zoom lenses that you will love learning on and using.  Even if you are not a first timer to using a DSLR, you will love the quality of this camera.

Sony A3000 Interchangeable Lens Digital Camera with 18-55mm Lens

Why is it a Top Pick?

The Sony a3000 is sure to help you unlock your creativity with the exceptional 20MP capability.  You also can shoot HD video as well. The lightweight body and easy to hold grip that makes taking pictures on the go much easier and feels more secure as well. You will most certainly want to take this great camera with you wherever you go so you don’t miss a shot.

You will be able to take all kinds of unique photos with lots of fun options like the 11 in picture effects such as soft focus, partial color, retro photo and more.  With a simple button touch you can get vertical or horizontal landscape photos which allows the camera to string the images together so you have one breathtaking panoramic image

With the strong and long lasting Lithium Ion Stamina battery, you can take up to 470 shots on a single full charge.  Thanks to the convenient InfoLITHIUM battery system you will be able to see how much battery life you have at any given time.

The large 3.0” LCD screen is conveniently located right over the viewfinder and it has an optimized auto focus feature that means you won’t miss any great shots waiting for your camera to focus as you’re shooting great shots or video.  Whether you are a beginner or intermediate photographer, you will be pleased with the performance and capabilities of the Sony a3000.

Top Rated Digital SLR Camera Summary

In a day and age where it seems everyone is taking pictures, it’s great to find three top rated digital SLR cameras that work well for beginners or intermediate photographers to produce brilliant, exceptional photos and video that they can be really proud of. All of these top rated models are excellent choices for someone who wants to delve deeper into the world of picture taking.

Having a good camera that is easy to use and that also leaves room to grow and expand is very encouraging and sparks a love of photography that can lead to other things in the future. When you have the information you need to evaluate a camera, you feel like you are not in the dark as to whether it is a good choice or not.

Since learning all you can about digital SLR cameras can make your choice much easier, we have provided a buyer’s guide for you that will tell you more information about digital SLR cameras in general. Read below to discover even more about what these great cameras can do.

Digital SLR Camera Comparison


Canon EOS Rebel T5 18MP EF-S Digital SLR
View

Nikon D3200 24.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR
View

Sony A3000 Mirrorless Digital Camera
View

Nikon D3300 DX-format DSLR
View

Canon EOS 5D Mark III 22.3 MP
View

Nikon D750 FX-format Digital SLR
View

Canon EOS Rebel T5i Digital SLR
View

Canon EOS 6D 20.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR
View

Nikon D7100 24.1 MP DX
View

Canon EOS Rebel T3i Digital SLR Camera
View
Lens Mount Canon EF

Canon EF-S
Nikon F Sony E-Mount Nikon F Canon EF Nikon F Canon EF

Canon EF-S

Canon EF Nikon F Canon EF

Canon EF-S

Effective
Pixels
18 MP 24.2 MP 20 MP 24.2 MP 22.3 MP 24.3 MP 18 MP 20.2 MP 24.1 MP 18 MP
Max Resolution 17.9 MP: 5184 x 3456 24 MP: 6016 x 4000 20 MP: 5456 x 3632 24 MP: 6000 x 4000 22.1 MP: 5760 x 3840 24.1 MP: 6016 x 4016 17.9 MP: 5184 x 3456 20 MP: 5472 x 3648 24.1 MP: 6000 x 4000 17.9 MP: 5184 x 3456
Sensor Type CMOS CMOS CMOS CMOS CMOS CMOS CMOS CMOS CMOS CMOS
File Formats JPEG, RAW,
H.264, MOV,
Linear PCM
JPEG, RAW,
MPEG-4 AVC,
 H.264, MOV,

Linear PCM

JPEG, RAW,
MP4,
MPEG-4 AVC/H.264,
MPEG-4 AVCHD
AAC LC,
AC3
JPEG, RAW,

MPEG-4 AVC,

 H.264, MOV,

Linear PCM

JPEG, RAW,

MPEG-4 AVC,

 H.264, MOV,

Linear PCM

JPEG, RAW,

MPEG-4 AVC,

 H.264, MOV,

Linear PCM

JPEG, RAW,

MPEG-4 AVC,

 H.264, MOV,

Linear PCM

JPEG, RAW,

MPEG-4 AVC,

 H.264, MOV,

Linear PCM

JPEG, RAW,

MPEG-4 AVC,

 H.264, MOV,

Linear PCM

JPEG, RAW,

MPEG-4 AVC,

 H.264, MOV,

Linear PCM

Focus Type Auto & Manual Auto & Manual Auto & Manual Auto & Manual Auto & Manual Auto & Manual Auto & Manual Auto & Manual Auto & Manual Auto & Manual
Focus Mode Automatic (A),
Continuous-servo AF (C),
Manual Focus (M),
Single-servo AF (S)
Continuous-servo AF (C),
Focus Lock AF Area Mode,
Manual Focus (M),
Single-servo AF (S)
Continuous-servo AF (C),

Manual Focus (M),

Single-servo AF (S)

Continuous-servo AF (C),
Full-time Servo (F),
Manual Focus (M), Single-servo AF (S)
Continuous-servo AF (C),

Manual Focus (M),

Single-servo AF (S)

Automatic (A),
Continuous-servo AF (C),
Full-time Servo (F),
Manual Focus (M),
Single-servo AF (S)
Continuous-servo AF (C),
Manual Focus (M),
Single-servo AF (S)
Continuous-servo AF (C),
Manual Focus (M),
Single-servo AF (S)
Continuous-servo AF (C),
Focus Lock AF Area Mode, Manual Focus (M),
Single-servo AF (S)
Continuous-servo AF (C),
Manual Focus (M),
Single-servo AF (S)
Autofocus Points 9, 1 cross-type 11 25 11 61 51, 15 cross-type 9 11 51 9
Viewfinder Type Pentamirror Pentamirror Electronic Pentamirror Pentaprism Pentaprism Pentamirror, Optical Pentaprism Pentaprism Pentamirror, Optical
Viewfinder
Eye Point
21 mm 18 mm 18 mm 18 mm 18 mm 21 mm 21 mm 21 mm 19.5 mm 21 mm
Viewfinder
Coverage
95% 95% 100% 95% 100% 100% 95% 97% 100% 95%
Diopter
Adjustment
– 2.5 to +0.5 m -1.7 to +0.5 m – 4 to +3.5 m -1.7 to +0.5 m – 3.0 to +1.0 m – 3 to +1 m – 3 to +1 m – 3 to +1 m – 2 to +1 m – 3 to +1 m
Display Screen
(Inches)
3 3 3 3 3.2 3.2 3 3 3.2 3
Diagonal
Angle of View
170.00 160.00 160.00 160.00 170.00 170.00 170.00 170.00 170.00 170.00
ISO Sensitivity 100-6400
(Extended Mode: 100-12800)
100-6400
(High Sensitivity Mode: 100-12800)
Auto, 100-16000 100-12800
(High Sensitivity Mode: 100-25600)
100-25600
(High Sensitivity Mode: 50-102400)
Auto, 100-12800
(Extended Mode: 50-51200)
Auto, 100-12800 (Extended Mode: 25600-) 100-25600 (Extended Mode: 50-102400) Auto, 100-6400 (Extended Mode: 12800-25600) Auto, 100-12800 (Extended Mode: 25600-)
Exposure Modes Aperture Priority,
Bulb,
Manual,
Program,
Shutter Priority
Aperture Priority,
Auto, Manual,
Programmed Auto,
Shutter Priority
Aperture Priority,
Manual,
Programmed Auto,
Shutter Priority,
Superior Auto,
Sweep Panorama
Aperture Priority,
Auto,
Manual,
Programmed Auto,
Shutter Priority
AE Lock,
Aperture Priority,
Auto,
Manual,
Programmed Auto,
Shutter Priority
Aperture Priority,

Manual,

Programmed Auto,

Shutter Priority

Aperture Priority,
Auto,
Flash Off,
Manual,
Programmed Auto,
Shutter Priority
Aperture Priority, Manual,
Program, Program Shift, Programmed Auto,
Shutter Priority
Aperture Priority, Auto,
Bulb,
Flash Off, Manual, Programmed Auto,
Shutter Priority
Aperture Priority,
Auto,
Flash Off,
Manual,
Programmed Auto,
Shutter Priority
Compensation -5 EV to +5 EV -5 EV to +5 EV 3 EV to +3 EV -5 EV to +5 EV -5 EV to +5 EV -5 EV to +5 EV -5 EV to +5 EV -5 EV to +5 EV -5 EV to +5 EV -5 EV to +5 EV
Metering Range EV 1.0 – EV 20.0 EV 1.0 – EV 20.0 EV 0.0 – EV 20.0 EV 0.0 – EV 20.0 EV 1.0 – EV 20.0 EV 0.0 – EV 20.0 EV 1.0 – EV 20.0 EV 1.0 – EV 20.0 EV 1.0 – EV 20.0 EV 1.0 – EV 20.0

Flash Modes

FE Lock

Hi-Speed Sync

Off

Red-eye Reduction

TTL Auto
Auto

Auto/Red-eye Reduction

Off

Second-curtain Sync

Slow Sync

Slow Sync/Red-eye Reduction
Auto

Fill-in

Off

Rear Sync

Slow Sync
Auto

Auto/Red-eye Reduction

Fill-in

Off

Rear Curtain/Slow Sync

Rear Sync

Red-eye Reduction

Slow Sync

Slow Sync/Red-eye Reduction

eTTL

Auto

Auto/Red-eye Reduction

Fill-in

Hi-Speed Sync

Off

Rear Curtain/Slow Sync

Rear Sync

Red-eye Reduction

Slow Sync

Slow Sync/Red-eye Reduction
eTTL Remote Firing eTTL 1st Curtain Sync

Auto

Auto/Red-eye Reduction

Fill-in

Off

Rear Curtain/Slow Sync

Red-eye Reduction

Second-curtain Sync

Slow Sync

Slow Sync/Red-eye Reduction

eTTL Remote Firing
Shutter Speed
(seconds)
1/8000 – 30 30 – 1/4000 30 – 1/4000 30 – 1/4000 1/8000 – 30 30 – 1/4000 30 – 1/4000 30 – 1/4000 30 – 1/8000 30 – 1/4000
Continuous
Shooting
Up to 3 fps Up to 4 fps Up to 3.5 fps Up to 5 fps Up to 6.0 fps Up to 6.5 fps Up to 5 fps Up to 4.5 fps Up to 6 fps
Up to 3.7 fps
Start-up Time
(seconds)
0.1 0.2 0.2 0.2 0.1 0.2 0.1 0.1 0.1 0.1
Connectivity HDMI C (Mini),
Mini-USB,
Wired Remote Port
Audio Out

HDMI C (Mini)

USB 2.0
USB 2.0 HDMI C (Mini),
USB 2.0
1/8″ Headphone

1/8″ Microphone

AV Output

HDMI C (Mini)

USB 2.0
1/8″ Headphone,
1/8″ Microphone,
HDMI C (Mini),
USB 2.0
AV Output

HDMI C (Mini)

USB 2.0
AV Output

HDMI C (Mini)

USB 2.0
1/8″ Microphone

HDMI C (Mini)

USB 2.0

AV Output

HDMI C (Mini)

USB 2.0

Shutter Lag
(seconds)
0.12 0.12 0.11 0.12 0.059 0.12 0.075 0.12 0.12 0.075
Battery Rechargeable Li-ion Rechargeable Li-ion Rechargeable Li-ion Rechargeable Li-ion Rechargeable Li-ion
Rechargeable Li-ion

Rechargeable Li-ion
Rechargeable Li-ion Rechargeable Li-ion Rechargeable Li-ion
Dimensions
(inches)
5.1 x 3.9 x 3.1 5 x 3.8 x 3.1 4 x 2.3 x 1.5 4.9 x 3.9 x 3.0 6 x 4.6 x 3 5.5 x 4.4 x 3.1 5.2 x 3.9 x 3.1 5.7 x 4.4 x 2.8 5.3 x 4.2 x 3.0 3.94 x 3.15 x 5.24
Weight
(pounds)
15.3 1 9.91 15.17 1.89 1.65 18.52 27.16 1.49 1.26
Functionality

Canon EOS Rebel T5 18MP EF-S Digital SLR
View

Nikon D3200 24.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR
View

Sony A3000 Mirrorless Digital Camera
View

Nikon D3300 DX-format DSLR
View

Canon EOS 5D Mark III 22.3 MP
View

Nikon D750 FX-format Digital SLR
View

Canon EOS Rebel T5i Digital SLR
View

Canon EOS 6D 20.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR
View

Nikon D7100 24.1 MP DX
View

Canon EOS Rebel T3i Digital SLR Camera
View
Dust
Reduction
System
Built-in Flash
Video
Recording
Magnification
Autofocus
Image
Stabilization
Wi-Fi Capable
Accessories

Canon EOS Rebel T5 18MP EF-S Digital SLR
View

Nikon D3200 24.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR
View

Sony A3000 Mirrorless Digital Camera
View

Nikon D3300 DX-format DSLR
View

Canon EOS 5D Mark III 22.3 MP
View

Nikon D750 FX-format Digital SLR
View

Canon EOS Rebel T5i Digital SLR
View

Canon EOS 6D 20.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR
View

Nikon D7100 24.1 MP DX
View

Canon EOS Rebel T3i Digital SLR Camera
View
Lens
Eyecup
Body Cap
Battery
Charger
Lithium-Ion
Battery Pack
Lens Cap
Lens Dust Cap
Battery Cover
Interface Cable
Digital
Solution Software
Macro Booklet
Flash Booklet
Strap
Hot Shoe
Cover
Shoulder Bag
SDHC
Memory Card

Wireless Adapter
Monopod
Support

Canon EOS Rebel T5 18MP EF-S Digital SLR
View

Nikon D3200 24.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR
View

Sony A3000 Mirrorless Digital Camera
View

Nikon D3300 DX-format DSLR
View

Canon EOS 5D Mark III 22.3 MP
View

Nikon D750 FX-format Digital SLR
View

Canon EOS Rebel T5i Digital SLR
View

Canon EOS 6D 20.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR
View

Nikon D7100 24.1 MP DX
View

Canon EOS Rebel T3i Digital SLR Camera
View
Telephone
Email
Shipment Free Free Free Free Free Free Free Free Free Free
Warranty 1 Year 1 Year 1 Year 1 Year 1 Year 1 Year 1 Year 1 Year 1 Year 1 Year
Ratings

Canon EOS Rebel T5 18MP EF-S Digital SLR
View

Nikon D3200 24.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR
View

Sony A3000 Mirrorless Digital Camera
View

Nikon D3300 DX-format DSLR
View

Canon EOS 5D Mark III 22.3 MP
View

Nikon D750 FX-format Digital SLR
View

Canon EOS Rebel T5i Digital SLR
View

Canon EOS 6D 20.2 MP CMOS Digital SLR
View

Nikon D7100 24.1 MP DX
View

Canon EOS Rebel T3i Digital SLR Camera
View
Customer Ratings 4.73 4.55 4.34 4.30 4.15 4.01 3.77 3.64 3.57 3.48
Expert Ratings 4.71 4.44 4.32 4.27 4.13 3.88 3.73 3.65 3.54 3.43
Overall Rating
(Out of 5)
4.72 4.50 4.33 4.29 4.14 3.95 3.75 3.65 3.56 3.46

 

Digital SLR Camera Buyers Guide

What is a Digital SLR Camera?

Digital SLR Camera1Photography has become a great hobby for many people over the years and it shows no signs of slowing down in today’s social media sharing world. A photographer gets to experiment with new ways of seeing the world and can create truly breathtaking works of art in the photos they create. The old adage a picture is worth a thousand words is definitely still the case and a beautiful picture can bring all of the emotion of the moment to those looking at it.

A DSLR is a great camera for an intermediate or even a beginner who is motivated to learn. These cameras allow the user to really work on their skills and improve their picture taking to new heights.

Unlike traditional cameras and point and shoot models, a DSLR gives the photographer a lot of control over the photography as well as the images. You can change lenses on a DSLR just like a regular SLR and you can control aperture and shutter speed as well. In addition you can control color and light balance too. If you really want to learn about how to work your camera and how to do more than point and shoot, learn about how to use the manual settings and controls and hoe to maximize them.

Digital SLR Camera Features

Digital SLR cameras can come with a lot of features that can get pretty crazy to try and figure out.  There are many that you will want to include in the camera that you end up choosing. We’ve listed some of the more common and important features that you will want to consider when comparing different models of digital SLR cameras.

Image Quality – What determines the quality of your pictures is the quality of the optics of the lens you are using.  Another factor is the image sensor.  The image sensor is similar to your regular computer monitor and is comprised pixels.  It’s a very complex process that would probably make no sense to explain, but it is why two pictures taken from different cameras and the same exposure settings can produce two different looking photos.  It all has to do with the image sensor.  For this reason, look for a camera that is known for quality image sensors and images.  With that being said, you still have to have a gifted eye to get a great shot so even with the best of image sensors, talent and skill on the part of the photographer is what truly makes a great shot, epic.

Megapixels – More than likely you have heard the term megapixels so it isn’t a completely foreign term.  Don’t fall into the trap of thinking that bigger is always better.  One of the benefits of having a larger megapixel count is to determine how large your prints can be printed as well as determining how much the images can be cropped without losing image quality.

Manual or Auto Focus? –  On most DSLR cameras you will have a choice between manual focus and automatic focus.  This is good because beginners can use the auto focus to help them get used to the camera and intermediate users can work on learning how to manually focus.

Digital SLR Camera2Digital Display – the display on the back of many DSLR cameras and even regular SLR cameras can be really helpful in determining whether you have the shot you want or not. While the camera is being used, the image that is in the viewfinder will also show in the display window.  You want a digital display that is bright, beautiful and clear as well as being well lit.

Dust Reduction – Dust can be a real problem if it gets into the mechanism and can affect the image sensor.  There are DSLR cameras that include a dust reduction feature which is a special filter that is located right behind the lens mount.  The function of this filter is to keep dust out of the important and delicate inner mechanisms while the lenses are being changed out.

Battery Life – This is always an important factor since you don’t want the camera to die right in the middle of a shoot or an occasion where you’re taking pictures.  Batter life will vary and many photographers routinely carry extra batteries in case the ones in the camera die during an important time.  Some cameras have indicators that let you know what the battery life is so you aren’t caught off guard or unprepared.

Camera Size – The Size of the camera can affect how portable it is and also can affect how easy it is to use.   In some of the entry level DSLR cameras, features tend to be eliminated to get the smaller size.  A professional grade camera is not necessarily going to be a small one or lightweight for the most part due to using the best of the best when it comes to components and assemblies.  Things like pentaprism viewfinders, full frame sensors, dust proof and water proof casings can all increase size and weight but professionals are less concerned with weight and size and more concerned with quality. 

Camera Speed – How many pictures per second can the camera take?  DSLR cameras can be equipped with fast action modes that can allow as many as 10 frames per second or more.  There are also continuous shooting modes, also known as Burst Mode that allows the shutter to be pressed to take continuous photos. This is a feature used often for sporting events and taking shots of wildlife.

The Different Types of Viewfinders

There are two basic types of viewfinders that DSLR cameras will use depending on the model and manufacturer.  Each one has specific properties that determine how they work.

  • Optical Pentamirror Viewfinder – This type of viewfinder uses a combination of three mirrors to correct and capture the image that is coming from the lens upside down. They are very lightweight and cheap but tend to produce duller images that are darker as well.  Pentamirror viewfinders are most often found in beginning DSLRS.
  • Optical Pentaprism Viewfinder – This type of viewfinder uses a five sided prism that reflects the image coming from the lens. They are much heavier and more expensive than pentamirrors and produce bright accurate images.  You will find most mid range and high end DSLR cameras have pentaprism viewfinders.

Image Stabilization

There are three types of stabilization for images: digital, optical and sensor.  Image stabilization helps prevent the blurring that can be caused by moving the camera, even slightly, when you’re taking pictures.  Reducing camera shake is very beneficial to having crystal clear pictures.

Digital – Digital image stabilization alter the image to reduce blur after the image has already been captured.  Unfortunately it can reduce image quality and is not really used for stabilization on high end and mid range cameras.

Digital SLR Camera3Optical – Optical stabilization uses gyroscopes that are built into the camera lens which reduces camera shakes.  These types of lenses can be expensive but the method is very efficient and creates great images without a reduction in image quality.

Sensor – Using the same basic principle as optical image stabilization method, the sensor stabilization has the gyroscopes built into the sensor and not the camera lens. The excellent thing about the sensor method is that you can take advantage of the stabilization benefits even when you’re using ordinary lenses.

Conclusion

Getting the right Digital SLR camera can be an exciting and nerve wracking purchase especially with all the choices available these days. This buyer’s guide has given you the knowledge and information that can help you understand what makes a good quality DSLR and what is preferable to look for.

A great camera can be a real pleasure to use and some people like it so much that they end up taking their love of taking pictures into a career. There are entry level DSLRs and professional grade models as well to cover every skill level.

When you have the right camera, you will find yourself constantly taking pictures and seeing the world in whole new ways. This buyer’s guide and the reviews above of the top rated digital SLR cameras can guide you in your search and help you get the camera that spurs your love of picture taking as well.

Resources

  1. Canon –  http://shop.usa.canon.com/
  2. Nikon – http://www.nikonusa.com/
  3. Sony – http://store.sony.com/
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