10 Best Cameras Under $500 in 2024 (Top Bargains)

Our selection of sub-$500 cameras features models with impressive image quality, performance, and a range of features to suit everyday or travel photography.

If you’ve already maxed out your credit card booking overseas flights and can’t afford a high-end mirrorless digital camera, it makes sense to document your journey with more than a smartphone.

Here, we’ll give you the run-down on a range of cameras that suit everyone, from content creators to intrepid globetrotters.

If you’re looking for a fun and unique way to document your adventures at home or abroad, this is your ultimate guide.

What are the Best Cameras Under $500 in 2024?

Since we last updated this guide, many featured models have retired or simply increased in value, pushing them outside the $500 budget.

Rather than keep those in and say they’re close to $500, we opted to wipe the slate clean and stick to the sub-$500 category.

Regardless of budget, it’s critical to consider the intended use when selecting any camera.

If you’re looking for a camera for travel or to keep in your daily commute bag, it must be compact and lightweight.

Alternatively, if you’re keen to create short videos for YouTube or social media, your focus should be on video resolution with a minimum of Full HD 1080.

However, if you want a camera to have some fun with, consider one of the Hybrid digital/instant film cameras or an action camera.

Regardless of your needs, there’s an affordable camera to support your endeavors and visual creations.

Ricoh PENTAX WG-1000

Camera Type: Digital Fixed Lens
Sensor: 16.53MP 1/2.3″-Type BSI CMOS
Lens: 4.9 to 19.6mm (27 to 108mm full frame equivalent) f/3-6.6
Dimensions: 116 x 68.5 x 50.5mm (4.6 x 2.7 x 2″)
Weight: 220g (7.8 oz)

Established in Tokyo in 1936, Ricoh is a highly respected name in camera and optics. The brand also specializes in various business machines, such as copiers and faxes.

The Ricoh PENTAX WG-1000 is an excellent budget-friendly digital camera with fantastic image quality and video capture.

Available in black or olive, the WG-1000 features a rugged weather-sealed body that withstands depths of 15m (49.2′), is IP6X dustproof, and can withstand drops from 2m (6.5′).

Given its build and durability, the compact Ricoh is ideal for weekends by the beach, snorkeling adventures, and hikes in the wilderness.

The Ricoh PENTAXZ WG-1000 produces sharp images with decent resolution thanks to the 16.53MP 1/2.3″-Type BSI CMOS image sensor. Image format is limited to JPEG only.

Beyond image quality, the WG-1000 also records HD video at 1920 x 1080 (H.264) – more than enough to document your next adventure.

In terms of supporting features, the compact camera boasts a 4x optical zoom lens with a 4.9 to 19.6mm (27 to 108mm full frame equivalent) and a reasonable f/3 to f/6.6 maximum aperture.

While there’s no electronic viewfinder (EVF), the Ricoh features a 2.7″ fixed non-touch screen, built-in flash, USB-C charge port, and a single SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot.

While the Ricoh PENTAX WG-1000 won’t win any glamor awards, there’s no denying the camera’s rugged beauty and action-based aesthetics.

Ricoh’s WG-1000 retails for around US$230.00, making it one of the best options for a sub-$500 camera.

Alternatively, if you like the idea of a rugged and durable camera, the Ricoh PENTAX WG-90 is another ‘adventure-proof’ option that retails for around US$300.00.

The WG-90 is ideal for underwater photography, thanks to its built-in ring light, ability to operate at depths of 14m (46ft), and functionality in temperatures as low as -10°C (14°F).

Canon PowerShot SX740 HS

Camera Type: Compact Fixed Lens
Sensor: 20.3MP 1/2.3″-Type CMOS
Lens: 4.3 to 172mm (24 to 960mm full frame equivalent) f/3.3-6.9
Dimensions: 109 x 63 x 4mm (4.3 x 2.5 x 1.6″)
Weight: 275g (9.7oz)

With decades of ingenuity and experience, Canon is among the most trusted names in cameras, lenses, and optical equipment.

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS is a compact powerhouse that delivers surprisingly impressive outcomes from such a tiny device.

Available in all-black or silver with brown, the SX740 HS is a stylish and practical addition to any travel bag or daily commute.

One of the most impressive features of the PowerShot is the image and video quality captured by the 20.3MP 1/2.3″-Type CMOS image sensor.

While it doesn’t capture RAW files, JPEG images are crisp and clear, with excellent color reproduction and tonal values.

Video performance includes 1920 x 1080p HD at 29.97/59.94fps or a high-quality 4K (3840 x 2160) at 29.97fps. All media is recorded to a single SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot.

What’s most impressive is the phenomenal zoom range facilitated by a 40x optical zoom, further extended by a 4x digital zoom to deliver a 160x zoom!

The SX740 HS boasts a ridiculous 4.3 to 172mm (24 to 960mm full-frame equivalent) zoom range, which includes a macro mode and a good f/3.3 to f/6 maximum aperture.

With that range, you can photograph anything from sweeping landscape views to wildlife at a considerable – and safe – distance.

The lens also features image stabilization for low-light and extended zoom shooting – all from a tiny lens that retracts and compresses inside the camera body.

Canon’s PowerShot SX740 HS packs much more into its compact form, including the pop-up flash, Zoom Framing Assistant, Canon DIGIC 8 processor, and fast 10-fps burst mode.

Another appealing feature of the Canon is the 3″ 922,000 dot resolution that flips up 180º for selfie photos and vlogging.

The Canon PowerShot SX740 HS retails for around US$500.00. While it maxes out the budget, I recommend saving up a little more for a spare battery.

A great alternative from Canon is the PowerShot ELPH 360 HS, which has a 4.5-54mm (25-300mm full-frame equivalent) optical zoom and 1080p video capture.

Ricoh PENTAX WG-8

Camera Type: Compact Fixed Lens
Sensor: 20MP 1/2.3″-Type BSI CMOS
Lens: 5 to 25mm (28 to 140mm full frame equivalent) f/3.5-5.5
Dimensions: 118.2 x 65.5 x 33.1mm (4.7 x 2.6 x 1.3″ )
Weight: 242g (8.5oz)

Ricoh Pentax is known for manufacturing affordable, robust, durable, and waterproof digital cameras that deliver great visual outcomes.

The Ricoh WG-8 is an impressive do-it-all compact camera that falls well within our $500 cut-off.

It’s also among the hardiest of the bunch, thanks to its 20m (65.6′) waterproofing rating, 2m (6.8′) drop durability, dustproof IPX6 rating, and ability to continue operation at -10°C/14°F.

While I don’t know how you’ll need this feature, the WG-8 is also crush-proof against weights of up to 100kg (220lb).

Regarding optics, the Ricoh boasts an all-purpose 5x optical zoom lens with a 5 to 25mm (28 to 140mm full frame equivalent) focal range. It also offers a respectable maximum aperture of f/3.5 to f/5.5 at each end of the range.

The WG-8 houses an impressive 20MP 1/2.3″-Type BSI CMOS image sensor that captures sharp, well-rendered JPEG images.

The Ricoh internally records 1920 x 1080 (H.264) video to the single SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card slot or full HD HD (1920 x 1080) at 30.00 fps externally via the USB port.

Activate the Movie Shake Reduction mode to capture smooth and vibration-free content.

While the WG-8 lacks an EVF, it features a large, bright, fixed 3″ 1,040K dot screen. However, the LCD doesn’t feature articulation or a touch interface.

Given that the Ricoh operates at depths of 20m (65.6′), where it’s very dark, including a circular ring flash is an excellent addition.

The camera also offers a range of shooting modes and variable settings to optimize exposure in any lighting conditions.

The Ricoh PENTAX WG-8 is an excellent choice for those who love to capture their extreme sports or adventures in detail.

Given its durability and retail price of around US$400.00, it’s one of the best sub-$500 cameras that will probably outlast you.

Canon EOS R100

Camera Type: Interchangeable Lens Camera
Sensor: 24.1MP APS-C CMOS
Lens: None
Dimensions: 116.3 x 85.5 x 68.8mm (4.6 x 3.4 x 2.7″)
Weight: 356g (12.6oz)

Canon has a long and acclaimed track record in the DSLR and, more recently, mirrorless camera market.

The company’s EOS R series of digital cameras are among the most sought-after and offer a range of features and performance to suit enthusiast and professional photographers.

However, not everyone has a professional’s skills, needs, or budget – many just want a reasonable camera with a range of interchangeable lenses.

The Canon EOS R100 is the perfect entry-level digital mirrorless camera within our $500 budget, not including a lens.

One of the most appealing features of a camera like the R100 is the ability to adapt a wide range of RF mount lenses.

While you can purchase the camera without lenses for around US$450.00, you can also buy a kit including the camera and a flexible zoom like the 18 to 45mm (29 to 72mm full-frame equivalent) for a little more.

The Canon EOS R100 is a feature-packed mirrorless camera that produces excellent image quality thanks to the 24.1MP APS-C CMOS cropped sensor, variable shooting modes, and exposure control.

It’s a much more significant option than many compact cameras featured in this guide. However, it’s an impressive package for those who prefer a larger camera body with greater ergonomics.

In addition to the excellent image quality, the EOS R100 captures HD 1920 x 1080 video at 59.94 fps and an impressive UHD 4K (3840 x 2160) at 23.98 fps.

The Canon R100 features a single memory card slot, HDMI-micro port, USB-C port, 3.5mm TRS stereo microphone input, and 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi/Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity.

Given the camera’s larger size, it offers a large 0.39″ 2,360K dot OLED EVF and a less impressive fixed 3″ 1,040k dot LCD that lacks a touch interface or articulation.

Regardless of the numbers, having the ability to shoot with an EVF or LCD is a plus!

If you’re not ready to switch to a digital mirrorless camera and prefer to stick with DSLR technology, the Canon EOS Rebel t7 is for you.

The EOS Rebel T7 has many identities. It’s known as the EOS 2000D in Europe, Canon EOS 1500D in Asia and Australia, and Kiss X90 in Japan.

The T7 packs a 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor and is another excellent entry-level camera that includes an 18-55mm lens for under US$500.00.

Panasonic LUMIX FZ80D

Camera Type: Fixed Lens Mirrorless
Sensor: 18.1MP 1/2.3″-Type MOS
Lens: 3.58 to 215mm (20 to 1200mm full frame equivalent) f/2.8-5.9
Dimensions: 130.3 x 9..2 x 125.2mm (5.13 x 3.71 x 4.93″)
Weight: 640g (22.6oz)

What’s most impressive about the Panasonic LUMIX FZ80D is the level of performance and features they crammed into a sub-$500 camera.

While the LUMIX FZ80D isn’t weather-sealed, it’s still a robust and durable camera. Granted, it’s a much bigger and heavier camera than most options in this price range, but it’s still great.

What stands out the most about the FZ80D is its insane 60x optical zoom range of 3.58 to 215mm (20 to 1200mm full-frame equivalent). 1200mm is a stalker-level zoom reach!

The lens features integrated image stabilization for low-light shooting. Its maximum aperture is a fast f/2.8 at 20mm and a reasonable f/5.9 at the telephoto end.

The LUMIX DC Vario lens is a dominant feature that extends as you zoom out towards the 1200mm end.

The FZ80D body offers great ergonomics thanks to the deep grip and placement of essential control dials and buttons.

Its single command dial, pop-up flash, image quality, and video resolution make it a perfect first camera for any visual creative.

Image quality is assured thanks to the 18.1MP 1/2.3″-Type MOS image sensor and 1920 x 1080 at 60p or 4K 30p video recording is available.

The Panasonic LUMIX FZ80D features a built-in EVF with 2,360k dots of resolution and 0.74x magnification. While the rear 3″ monitor is fixed in place, it boasts a touch interface and 1,840K of image resolution.

Panasonic’s sub-$500 digital mirrorless camera features electronic and mechanical shutter modes, a fast 10fps burst, and USB-C connectivity.

It retails for around US$450.00 without investing further in additional lenses. While the battery life is good, I always recommend buying at least one spare battery.

Sony ZV-1F Vlogging Camera

Camera Type: Fixed Lens Vlogging Camera
Sensor: 20.1MP 1″ Exmor RS BSI CMOS
Lens: ZEISS 7.6mm (20mm full frame equivalent) f/2-8
Dimensions: 105.5 x 60 x 43.5mm (4.2 x 2.4 x 1.7″)
Weight: 294g (10.4oz)

Sony is one of the best-known and most trusted brands for consumer electronics, including stereos, televisions, and digital cameras.

I still recall my pure delight at getting my first Sony Discman with anti-skip technology – yes, I’m that old (older)!

Sony’s range of digital mirrorless cameras is among the most impressive thanks to their high-resolution image sensors, videography capabilities, and lightning-fast focus performance.

While the Sony ZV-1F Vlogging Camera costs less than $500, it still retains Sony’s attention to detail, performance, and overall output.

As the name suggests, the ZV-1F is an excellent vlogging camera with dedicated vlog features, including a forward-facing rotating touchscreen, hot-shoe, microphone input port, and noise-reduction microphone windshield.

The Sony ZV-1F records UHD 4K 30p or HD 1080p up to 100p video internally to the single SD/SDHC/SDXC memory card slot.

Supportive modes include face detection focus priority, animal eye autofocus, and a product priority mode for showcasing your unboxing videos.

Even though the Sony is a vlogger’s camera, it’s a great little point-and-shoot thanks to the fixed ZEISS 7.6mm (20mm full frame equivalent) with a maximum aperture of f/2.

The 20mm wide-angle field of view is ideal for various photography styles, including travel, street, and landscape. Zeiss is a lens brand typically associated with premium Leica cameras.

The 20.1MP 1″ Exmor RS BSI CMOS image sensor and powerful BIONZ X deliver excellent image quality.

Sony’s compact vlog camera doesn’t feature an EVF but offers a fully articulating 3″ touchscreen with 921,6K dots of image resolution.

One downside of such a compact design is the fiddly controls, dials, and buttons. It takes some time to get used to, and those with big hands and fingers might find it impossible.

Available in black or white, the Sony ZV-1F Vlogging Camera retails for US$500.00, making it excellent value for money.

First-time photographers or those starting in video content creation need look no further. (But please keep reading!)

OM System Tough G7

Camera Type: Fixed Lens Digital
Sensor: 12MP BSI CMOS
Lens: Fixed 4.5 to 18mm (25 to 100mm full frame equivalent) f/2-4.9
Dimensions: 113.9 x 65.8 x 32.7mm (4.5 x 2.6 x 1.3″)
Weight: 249g (8.8oz)

The OM System Tough G7 shares much in common with the Ricoh PENTAX WG-1000 and WG-8.

Available in red or black, the TG-7 is a compact fixed-lens digital camera that excels in wet and wild conditions.

Its design and build quality make it IPX8-rated waterproof to depths of 15m (50’), freezeproof to temperatures as low as -10ºC (14°F), shockproof to drops of 2.1m (7′), crush-proof up to 100kg (220lb), and dust and fog resistant.

OM System’s TG-7 packs a modest 12MP BSI CMOS image sensor and TruePic VIII processor to capture sharp images in any lighting conditions.

Given the TG-7’s high underwater capability, OM Systems also develops many accessories for deeper adventures, including underwater lighting and housing.

The fixed lens offers a 4x optical zoom range from 4.5 to 18mm (25 to 100mm full frame equivalent) and an excellent f/2-4.9 max aperture.

Its zoom and wide aperture are ideal for various photography genres, from portraiture to wide-angle landscapes.

While the 12MP image sensor limits image resolution, the TG-7 more than compensates by offering RAW image format and UHD 4K video at 30p.

Another limitation is the lack of an EVF, and the only option is the fixed, non-touch 3″ LCD panel with a less-than-ideal resolution of 1,037 K dots.

There’s no denying that the OM System TG-7 is one of the most robust and everything-proof cameras available. It offers good low-light performance, RAW image files, fast FPS bursts, and 4K video recording.

However, the biggest let-down is the limited 12MP image sensor compared to its peers.

The OM System retails for just under US$500.00 – a premium price for a low-performing sensor.

Regardless of the megapixel count, the TG-7 is one of the best action-capable cameras that you can quite literally toss around.

GoPro HERO 13 Black

Camera Type: Action Camera
Sensor: 27.13MP (5568 x 4872) 1/1.9″-Type CMOS
Lens: 12 to 39mm (full frame equivalent) f/2.5
Dimensions: 71.8 x 50.8 x 33.6mm (2.8 x 2 x 1.3″)
Weight: 154g (5.43oz)

While the Ricoh WG and OM System TG cameras offer great solutions for beachside activities, the true ‘hero’ of the action camera world is the GoPro HERO 13 Black.

GoPro has dominated the action-camera market for countless years, offering fun, creative, and cost-effective solutions for capturing even the most extreme sports and activities.

While the HERO 13 Black features a fixed 12 to 39mm (full frame equivalent) f/2.5 lens, GoPro offers a range of clip-on lens adaptors and filters.

Lens Mods include Macro for close-up details, Ultra-Wide for expansive landscapes, Anamorphic for cinematic, and an ND Filter Kit with four different stop levels: ND4, ND8, ND16, and ND32.

Another key benefit of the Lens Mods is that the GoPro automatically detects the lens or filter and adjusts its settings accordingly.

The GoPro HERO 13 Black captures full-resolution RAW images and countless video formats and modes.

While the show’s star is the optically uncompromised 5.3K at 60p, the HERO 13 also records silky smooth 4K at 120p and 8x slow motion 2.7K at 240p.

The good times don’t stop there, as the HERO features HyperSmooth 6.0 digital image stabilization to minimize frame cropping while delivering smooth capture.

Video-savvy folk will love the ability to record in 10-bit video or Log encoding at 10-bit with GP-Log to capture greater color depth and reproduction.

The HERO 13 Black features stereo microphones and can pair seamlessly with external Bluetooth-enabled microphones.

The new Enduro Battery powers the camera’s impressive output. It sustains 2.5 hours of recording 1080 video and up to 1.5 hours of recording 4K or 5K 30p.

That same power management system also ensures the front-facing 1.4″ LCD and rear 2.3″ touchscreen deliver optimal performance.

GoPro’s HERO 13 BLACK is an easy recommendation for anyone wanting to capture high-spec video of extreme adventures and sporting performance on the go.

It retails for around US$400.00, leaving a chunk of change from your $500 budget to purchase Lens Mods, housings, or mounts.

DJI Pocket Gimbal 2

Camera Type: Action Camera
Sensor: 64MP 1/1.7″-Type CMOS
Lens: 20mm f/1.8
Dimensions: 124.7 x 38.1 x 30mm (4.9 x 1.5 x 1.2″)
Weight: 117g (4.1oz)

While on the topic of fun yet powerful action cameras, the DJI Pocket Gimbal 2 offers a unique experience for under $500.

DJI is well known for consumer, professional, and industry-level drones.

The DJI Pocket Gimbal 2 is a tiny, pocketable action camera with a built-in 3-axis gimbal for fast, agile subject tracking. The gimbal also controls image stabilization.

Unlike any other camera in our guide, it features a vertical body that doubles as the grip, incorporating key interface buttons, gimbal controls, and a fixed LCD.

The Gimbal 2 features a tiny yet sharp 20mm lens with a wide 93º field of view and a fast f/1.8 maximum aperture.

It also features an 8x digital zoom function, fast autofocus, and subject detection and tracking. The 8x zoom features are available only for still images, and up to 2x zoom is for 4K video.

When the DJI Pocket is held in vlog mode, the three-axis gimbal ensures the lens is always focused on the user.

While it’s more of a video tool than a still photography camera, it captures phenomenal RAW and JPEG image quality thanks to its 64MP 1/1.7″-Type CMOS image sensor.

DJI’s Pocket Gimbal 2 captures stunning 4K 60p, 2K 60p, and 1080 HD video at 60p. The tiny gimbal camera also captures ultra-smooth slow-motion HD 1080 at 240p or 120p.

To further enhance the creative process, the Gimbal 2 features four stereo microphones that support subject tracking by following the direction of the audio.

The Gimbal 2 features a range of recording modes, including HDR, panorama, self-portrait, and captivating time-lapse video.

DJI’s Pocket Gimbal 2 pairs with the Android and iOS-compatible DJI MIMO app, allowing mobile editing and setting access.

The Gimbal 2 retails for around US$280.00, making it a high-spec, budget-friendly camera that’s well under the $500 mark!

Fujifilm Instax MINI EVO Hybrid Instant Camera

Camera Type: Hybrid Digital / Instant Camera
Sensor: 1/5″-Type CMOS
Lens: 28mm f/2
Dimensions: 123 x 87 x 36mm (4.8 x 3.4 x 1.4″)
Weight: 285g (10.1oz)

Fujifilm has been in the optics game for over 90 years and has continued to innovate and manufacture class-leading digital cameras.

Although Fuji doesn’t have a digital mirrorless camera under $500, they offer a range of Instax instant film cameras and printers.

The Instax camera range is unique because it uses a chemical film processing technique whenever you print an image.

As the single film slide ejects from the Instax camera, processing chemicals squeeze across it to interact with the light and develop the image.

It’s a little magical – kids and adults alike love it.

The Fujifilm Instax MINI EVO Hybrid Instant camera combines the wonders of instant film processing and digital elements to optimize the fun factor.

The EVO Hybrid captures image detail with a 28mm f/2 lens and a small 1/5″ type sensor. Image review, editing, and menu access are via the rear 3″ LCD with a low resolution of 460K dots.

As for styling, the EVO is available in Black, Brown, Limited Dark Silver, and Limited Titanium Gold, each with a retro film camera aesthetic.

The Instax Hybrid features a manual Film dial that allows users to alter the look of images with one of ten filters or presets. The lens also features a dial that allows users to select up to ten lens effects for creative outcomes.

A film winding lever cleverly sets the EVO to print the currently displayed image.

It boasts internal memory that can hold up to 45 images, and the MicroSD slot allows you to expand your storage considerably.

The beauty of the Fujifilm Instax Hybrid camera is that you can take shots and opt to edit and print only the images you love.

Alternatively, you can connect the EVO to your smartphone via Bluetooth and use the Instax App to edit and print photos from your smartphone photo library.

Fujifilm’s Instax MINI EVO Hybrid Instant camera retails for around US$200.00, and a pack of twenty film slides costs around US$22.00.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best cheap movie camera?

The best cheap video camera for vlogging and content creation is the Sony ZV-1F. It features a Zeiss 20mm f/2 lens and a 20.1MP image sensor and can record stunning UHD 4K 30p video or HD 1080p up to 100p.

Are expensive cameras worth it?

Expensive cameras are essential for enthusiasts and professional photographers who demand the highest specs and performance to master their craft. However, any camera is good if it inspires you to get out and about and see the world in a different light.

How much should you pay for a good camera?

Many believe a good camera should include the latest image sensor and a high megapixel count—it can cost between $2,000 and $3,000. However, many good cameras are more affordable and don’t need the latest pro-level specs to take good shots. As our guide shows, it’s possible to find several good to great cameras for under $500.

How much should a beginner photographer spend on a camera?

Beginner photographers should start with a cheap camera from a reputable brand. It’s more important to learn how to operate a camera and master exposure than to spend too much at the checkout. A beginner should pay less than $1000; many suitable cameras come in under $500.

Final Thoughts

Buying a camera for under $500 doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the quality of the photos or videos you’re capturing.

Working with a cheap camera that lacks many of the bells and whistles of pro gear will teach you much more about your capabilities.

Remember the old saying that less is more! Don’t rely on the gear to take better shots – that’s up to you!

As our guide reveals, there are many excellent sub-$500 digital cameras to suit a wide range of photography and videography styles and genres.

Moreover, the budget-friendly options all invoke an element of fun and creativity without breaking the bank.

My advice is to grab the best camera for your budget and pursue your creative inspirations, ideas, and themes to develop your skills.

Then, once you’ve mastered your sub-$500 camera and think you’re ready for the next level, we’ve got more guides for you to check out!

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Ricoh PENTAX WG-1000

Rugged and waterproof camera that produces sharp images and HD video on a budget.