Best DSLR Cameras in the UK

Review & Comparison, Last Update October 3, 2024
Those who enjoy photography, either as a hobby or as a profession, are often wanting or needing the best quality cameras available. DSLR cameras have proven to be the best at what they do. Take a look at our reviews for five of the most popular DSLR cameras available. ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Lenses
Sensor
Screen
Viewfinder
Max Video Resolution
Photo/Video Formats
Accessories
Weight
Warranty
 
PROS

The powerful DIGIC 8 processor paired with a 24.1-megapixel APS-C sensor matrix will deliver high-quality pictures even in low-light conditions.

CONS

The application's UI is somewhat finicky.

OUR VERDICT

This camera from Canon is lightweight, simple in operation, and quite easy to master. Owing to the built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi modules, it can also be connected to mobile gadgets for seamless data transfer. An optimal pick for amateur artists and photographers.

detailed parameters
Lenses

EF-S 18-55 mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens

Sensor

24.1 MP Dual Pixel CMOS AF sensor

Screen

3" Vari-Angle touchscreen Clear View II TFT

Viewfinder

Optical viewfinder with 9 point autofocus

Max Video Resolution

2160p / 25 fps

Photo/Video Formats

RAW, JPEG, MOV, MP4

Accessories

EF-S 18-55 mm f/4-5.6 IS STM lens, Hand strap E2, Protecting cloth PC-E1, PC-E2, HDMI cable HTC-100, Canon interface cable IFC-600PCU

Weight

449 g

Warranty

1 year

PROS

39 autofocus points (including 9 cross-type sensors) in combination with additional lighting will make your pictures look perfect no matter the circumstances.

CONS

The UK plug adapter is not supplied.

OUR VERDICT

The D5600 DSLR camera from Nikon that features a vari-angle touchscreen and an Exspeed 4 image processor will help you make your photographs and Full HD clips with professional quality. On top of that, the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth NFC connectivities can expand the versatility of the device even more.

detailed parameters
Lenses

18-55mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens

Sensor

24.2MP CMOS sensor

Screen

3.2" LCD touch screen with a 170° viewing angle

Viewfinder

Eye-level pentamirror single-lens reflex viewfinder, 39 focus points

Max Video Resolution

1080p / 60 fps

Photo/Video Formats

RAW, JPEG, MOV

Accessories

DK-25 rubber eyecup, BF-1B body cap, EN-EL14a rechargeable Li-ion battery, AN-DC3 strap, MH-24 battery charger

Weight

465 g

Warranty

1 year (+ 1 year extension)

PROS

A Scene Intelligent Auto mode helps in making astonishing point-and-shoot photos, while Creative Filters will make them truly unique and highlight all the important parts.

CONS

The screen is not fingerprint-resistant. 

OUR VERDICT

Сanon's EOS 4000D digital camera has all it needs to be a great model for beginner photographers. You can control the camera via your tablet or a smartphone, thanks to the NFC and Wi-Fi capabilities.

detailed parameters
Lenses

18-55 mm f/3.5-5.6 III lens

Sensor

18MP CMOS sensor

Screen

2.7" rear LCD screen

Viewfinder

Optical viewfinder with 9 point autofocus

Max Video Resolution

1080p / 30 fps

Photo/Video Formats

RAW, JPEG, MOV

Accessories

Eyecup EF, Camera cover R-F-3, Camera strap EW-400D, Battery pack LP-E10, Battery charger LC-E10E

Weight

436 g

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The camera is supplied with a powerful and compact AF-P DX NIKKOR 18-55 mm VR zoom lens, which makes focusing an easy and effortless task. What is more, it makes little to no noise when used.

CONS

The SnapBridge app may lag a bit sometimes.

OUR VERDICT

The Nikon D3500 is a lightweight DSLR model with an easy-to-follow UI, high sensitivity, and powerful lenses that together make photography fun and easy. Additionally, the higher sensitivity range allows taking great, detailed pictures even in the dark environments.

detailed parameters
Lenses

18-55 mm f/3.5-5.6G VR lens

Sensor

24.2MP DX-format CMOS sensor

Screen

3" rear LCD touchscreen with a 170° viewing angle

Viewfinder

Eye-level pentamirror single-lens reflex viewfinder, 11 focus points

Max Video Resolution

1080p / 60 fps

Photo/Video Formats

JPEG, RAW

Accessories

AF-P DX NIKKOR 18–55mm VR lens, AN-DC3 strap, DK-25 rubber eyecup, BF-1B body cap, EN-EL14a rechargeable Li-ion battery, MH-24 battery charger

Weight

415 g

Warranty

2 years

PROS

Thanks to the Scene Intelligent Auto system, you can simply point and shoot with this DSLR model and the camera will do the rest. To add more, the digital and optical viewfinders make shot previews as easy as they can possibly get.

CONS

The user manual could be a bit more informative.

OUR VERDICT

This entry-level camera from Canon is not as simple as it may seem from the first glance. Equipped with wireless modules and a 24.1-megapixel sensor, it will be a real find for both photographers and people that just want to stream videos in high quality.

detailed parameters
Lenses

EF-S 18-55 mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II lens

Sensor

24.1 MP APS-C CMOS sensor

Screen

3.0" TFT LCD display

Viewfinder

Optical viewfinder with 9 point autofocus

Max Video Resolution

1080p / 30 fps

Photo/Video Formats

RAW, JPEG, MOV

Accessories

EF-S 18-55 mm f/3.5-5.6 IS II, Eyecup Ef, Camera cover R-F-3, Camera strap EW-400D, Battery pack LP-E10, Battery charger LC-E10E

Weight

475 g

Warranty

1 year

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Canon EOS 250D

Begin Taking Photos Today With Canon

The Canon EOS 250D is a good mid-range camera that won’t surprise users that take photos professionally but it is an excellent choice for all beginner photographers that are only dipping their toes into a new hobby.

To start off, the 250D features a user interface that is as straightforward as it can get. Every button, switch, and dial is labelled and, as soon as you finish reading the user manual, you will be ready to take photos. Aside from the camera’s main body, the kit is additionally equipped with an 18-55-mm lens that gives the camera a good optical zoom from the get-go. As for the digital specifications of the camera, it has a whopping 24.1-megapixel matrix that delivers top-notch photos on every magnification level.

For added convenience, this Canon model is equipped with a 3-inch TFT touchscreen that allows for a better preview of your shots. Likewise, the Vari-Angle construction makes it easier to shoot pictures from different perspectives by allowing you to turn the screen as you see fit. Alternatively, you can always use the built-in viewfinder that has 9 different autofocus points.

To sum things up, this model from Canon is one of the best picks for the role of a first camera, especially if you want to step up your game from regular smartphones to something that can enhance your pictures on the fly. The basic kit includes everything you need to get started, which also makes it an optimal camera for the money.

Review of Canon EOS 250D DSLR Camera

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price £629.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B07QHPBZNX

 

Nikon D5600-1

Making Great Photos Has Never Been so Easy

The Nikon D5600 features a special SnapBridge technology that offers a true freedom from cables to quickly transfer newly made photos in order to post them on social media. The way it works is quite simple: the camera can be connected to any Bluetooth compatible device and you can copy all the photos directly to your phone or tablet.

This model offers an unrivalled level of ISO sensitivity (from 100-25600, with 6400 in Night Landscape mode), noise reduction, texture, and colour rendering. That is achieved thanks to a powerful image processing unit - EXPEED 4. The processor is able to quickly reduce noise as well as the effects of chromatic aberration (the pesky colour distortion at the edges of the objects).

With a weight that is lower than 500 grams, it is fairly easy to operate the camera even for teens. For the additional convenience, the device is supplied with a special strap so you won’t accidentally drop the camera.

The only major drawback of this model is the fact that it doesn't come with a UK plug adapter, so you will have to either charge the battery using another USB compatible device or to purchase one beforehand.

In conclusion, the Nikon D5600 is a great entry-level digital camera that will be suitable for both professionals and amateur photo artists, thanks to its quite straightforward interface and ease of use.

Review of Nikon D5600-1 AF-S 18-55 VR DSLR Camera

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £849.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B01MQGO8V6

 

Canon EOS 4000D

A Great Tool to Become a Pro

If you are a beginner when it comes to photography, you probably wonder where you should start. Well, with some practice behind your back, you will be able to make truly stunning photographs, as well as high-quality video clips in just a few months. Just remember that practice makes perfect, so don’t be upset if your first experience with a professional-grade camera will be a tough one. All pro photographers have been there once in their career so it is important to stay positive and focus on your achievements.

One of the great tools that can help you get these achievements is the Canon EOS 4000D. Perfect for beginners, the device comes with the sort of features that are more prevalent in the premium, high-end cameras. The 18 Megapixel sensor makes sure that your photos always look smooth and crisp. And you won't have to worry about those photos being too heavy for your memory card since, by purchasing Canon products, you get 15GB of storage on Irista for free.

Memory question aside, the ways to improve your photography skills can vary in effectiveness. Fortunately, there is a great way to do that quickly and almost without any effort. Get inspired by professionals using the Canon Photo Companion application that is designed exactly for educating entry-level photographers.

All in all, the Canon EOS 4000D is perhaps one of the best starter camera kits with a lot of features that come at a fair price.

Review of Canon EOS 4000D DSLR Camera + EF-S 18-55 mm f/3.5-5.6 III Lens

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £359.70
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B07B199LGK

 

Nikon D3500

An Upgraded Excellence

Although the upgraded D3500 DSLR camera from Nikon hasn’t changed that much, it has received a refined design and a couple of new features that make an already good product even better.

To start off, let’s take a closer look at the specifications that were updated in this newer model. First of all, the battery life has been significantly improved and now can endure up to 1600 shots (1000 shots with the former D3400 model). Surprisingly enough, the weight of the camera has been decreased to only 415 g, despite the extended battery life.

Moving on, the ability to record in Full HD allows making truly stunning videos with frame rates of up to 60 fps, which is quite impressive for an entry-level model. Moreover, a high-quality microphone records videos with a crisp sound, so you won’t have to change it in post-processing or use additional hardware.

In addition to to the great capabilities of the camera itself, the device features a built-in SnapBridge technology that enables wireless file transfer. This feature will be extremely useful for users that like to send the RAW files straight away without using a laptop or computer.

To wrap things up, the Nikon D3500 is one of the best cameras for beginners out there. With an intuitive design and simple functions that are easy to use yet hard to master, this is an entry-level model that will help you become a real professional.

Review of Nikon D3500 DSLR Camera

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £662.90
Stock In stock
ASIN B07TJG96LB

 

Canon EOS 2000D

An Essential DSLR Model

The EOS 2000D is yet another budget DSLR camera from Canon, however, this time around the company has something more to offer aside from the actual camera body.

First, the package includes a high-quality lens that provides it with mechanical zoom capabilities on top of the digital one that usually just butchers the output quality of the photos. The 18-55-mm lens is reinforced with a metal ring that ensures a longer service life of the attachment contrary to the plastic counterparts in other similar models.

Secondly, it’s the 3-inch LCD touchscreen that allows previewing the shots, browse through the gallery, as well as picking the settings that you need to take a perfect photo. The only thing we would really like to see, though, is a decent screen cover since you will be using that digital square quite a lot, which will inevitably bring some scratches due to extended use. As a substitute to a digital one, the optical viewfinder can be used without too much of an issue. Moreover, its 95% coverage brings it closer to premium-grade models, even more than the actual LCD screen does.

All in all, if an affordable DSLR camera is what you search for, then the EOS 2000D fits that bill just right. Highly portable and easy to use, it won’t limit your development as an artist since it provides room for improvement, thanks to its digital and optical capabilities.

Review of Canon EOS 2000D DSLR Camera Body - Black

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £409.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B07B1B265L

 

What Is a DSLR Camera?

A DSLR camera (short for digital single lens reflex) is a digital camera that uses the single lens reflex system found on older professional film-based cameras. These cameras are fully digital, with the basic design being similar to most other digital cameras, but the lens that they use is a high-quality lens that has been proven throughout the years.

The lens of a DSLR camera works by allowing light to pass through the lens, and then to a mirror that sends the light to the digital imaging sensor and/or through the viewfinder. Many of these types of cameras include a digital image display to allow for easier aiming and framing of the picture, while many also include a viewfinder that allows for setting up a perfectly framed shot. The single lens design ensures that the resulting photo will not be much (if at all) different than what is seen through the viewfinder, or through the digital display.

DSLR cameras are often considered to be among the best digital cameras, as they allow such precision in taking photographs that are so similar to what is seen through the viewfinder. These cameras are perfect for both hobbyists and professionals, and many people much prefer them to most other types of digital or film-based cameras.

If you are a hobbyist or professional photographer and love to display your photos, then take a look at our reviews of the five best digital photo frames.

What Features to Compare

DSLR cameras are among the most popular types of high-end cameras for both hobbyists and professionals, and as such, there are quite a few models out on the market. When looking for the right DSLR camera for what you need, there are many considerations that must be taken into account. Sorting through the many different models can be difficult, but knowing exactly what to look for will help you a great deal in narrowing the selection down to what you need. Keep some of these different characteristics in mind when looking for the perfect DSLR camera.

Megapixels

One of the most important features of the camera is the number of megapixels that the camera is able to capture in a photograph. This number determines the quality and detail that is captured by the camera, and the higher the number, the more detailed the photos will be. Generally, you will want to find a camera with a high megapixel count to ensure you are getting the most detailed photos possible.

Lens

With the many different models that are available, it can be confusing to figure out the differences between the different cameras. However, the first way to narrow down your purchasing decision is to look for a camera kit or a bundle. This indicates that the camera comes complete with a lens, usually between 18 to 55mm. As the lens is one of the most important components of the camera, ensuring that it comes with a good lens will be a necessity.

Features

As DSLR cameras are fully digital, they almost all include a great selection of different features and abilities, such as video, zoom, wide angle, panoramic, and other features commonly found with digital cameras. However, not all models will include the same set of features. It is important to check to make sure that the camera you buy includes the features that you need.

Mount

Many professional photographers rely on mounts for certain types of photos. Finding a camera that is compatible with your favourite mount is, of course, a necessity if you don't wish to purchase an extra mount. However, some DSLR cameras do actually include a mount, so it's best to check if the one that you want to buy includes one if it doesn't fit your own.

Bundled Accessories

Those who take photography seriously know that cameras often require extra accessories, including a carrying case, strap, mount, and other items. Many of the higher end DSLR cameras tend to come with many accessories included, but others don't. If you are going to need or want accessories for your camera, then you will want to make sure that the accessories you need are either included with the camera at purchase or readily available to purchase alongside it.

Did you know?

The Best Features of DSLR Cameras

DSLR cameras have really revolutionized the photography business ever since they were first created, giving photographers an unprecedented level of detail as well as control over their photos that they never had before. Many of the features that have been included with recent cameras have now become a mainstay with photographers. If you are new to the exciting world of DSLR cameras, then here are some of the exciting features that are now commonplace with most high-end models.

Autofocus

The days of having to manually focus your lens are long gone. Most DSLR cameras include the ability to autofocus on any object that the camera is pointed at, no matter how far or close it is. The autofocus feature uses phase detection, which works by having the camera automatically calculate the distance to the object and then focus the lens accordingly. This prevents photographers from having to spend precious time focusing their own lenses before each shot, and more time on taking quality photographs.

Mode Dial

Another exciting new feature with most DSLR cameras is the ability to mode dial, which allows for quick and easy access to many of the functions and features of the camera, such as setting the priorities for the aperture and shutter, the various modes that are supported on the camera, and many other settings. This is especially helpful for beginning photographers who are not sure how to calibrate their cameras for the effects they want to achieve.

Dust Reduction

Many DSLR cameras include dust reduction systems that help keep the camera and lens free of unnecessary and harmful dust. The various dust reduction systems used can vary greatly, depending on the model of the camera, but they can range from automatically closing lens covers to vibration systems that shake out any dust that has accumulated in the lens.

Interchangeable Lenses

Being able to change the lens of a camera is nothing new, as this feature has been included on many high-end cameras for decades. However, more and more cameras that are affordable for hobbyists and professionals alike include this ability and many of the higher-end models may even include various lenses with the camera kit. Most popular camera manufacturers make additional lenses for their cameras, and many third-party lenses are available as well.

HD Video Recording

Anyone who wanted to take both high-quality photos and videos required multiple items of equipment, including both a camera and a camcorder. However, most DSLR cameras now include the ability to record HD quality video along with taking high-quality photos. This means that just one device can now be used in any situation, regardless of whether you are taking still photos or recording an event.

Live Preview

One of the best things about high-end digital cameras now is that most of them include an LCD screen that displays the image as seen through the viewfinder. In fact, this is a very specific upside of DSLR cameras, considering that the viewfinder and lens both view from the same mirror. This makes framing and following a shot much easier than ever before, without the need to put the camera up to your face just to take a photo. Photographers can now easily see what their shot will look like at a glance.

Many Other Features

There is no shortage of features that are included with most DSLR cameras, including depth-of-field control, wider angles, and many more. Whichever DSLR camera you decide to get, you should have a large number of special features at your fingertips.

FAQ:

Q: How are DSLR cameras different than most regular digital cameras?

A: The main difference between a DSLR camera and most other cameras has to do with how the camera is aimed through the viewfinder. Both the lens and the viewfinder are seeing from the same source, which allows photos to be exactly as seen through the viewfinder, or through the LCD display that is included on most models.

Q: How are DSLR cameras better than the high-quality cameras found on top-end smartphones?

A: Smartphone cameras, especially those that come included with many high-end smartphones, have really given high-end cameras a run for their money in terms of quality. However, a smartphone camera simply lacks many of the capabilities of DSLR cameras, including the ability to change the lens. Smartphone cameras are limited to the lens that is included with it.

Q: What accessories do I need to have with a DSLR camera?

A: Many DSLR cameras include accessories in the camera kit, and many hobbyist photographers don't need any extra ones. However, a few of the accessories that are good to have are straps for holding the camera on your body, a tripod or other kind of mount for extremely steady photos, and SD cards for the ability to store the many photos that you will undoubtedly take with your camera.

Q: What exactly are Megapixels?

A: The term "megapixels" refers to the number of individual pixels that a single digital photo is composed of, measured in the millions. For instance, an 18-megapixel camera can take photos that are composed of up to 18 million pixels. The higher the megapixel rating for a camera, the more details that are typically included in the photo. Most photographers like to have a camera with as many megapixels as possible to ensure that their photos are of the highest quality.

Q: If I am a beginner photographer, should I buy a DSLR camera?

A: DSLR cameras are great for anyone, whether it be an absolute beginner or a seasoned veteran. Beginners will have the benefit of immediately having many of the advanced features of DSLR cameras right at their fingertips, without needing to invest too much money in additional camera gear once they become more proficient in the art of photography.

Q: Do film-based cameras exist that have the same features of DSLR cameras?

A: The SLR technology has actually been around for a long time, and thus non-digital SLR cameras have been available for years. However, film-based cameras simply do not have the same number of features as DSLR cameras, as digital cameras include many image manipulation and processing features that are simply not possible with a non-digital camera.

Q: How can a beginner learn to make the most of the special features included in a DSLR camera?

A: With a large number of features packed into a single DSLR camera, it can be daunting for a beginner to learn how to utilize these features to their fullest extent. However, there are plenty of ways of learning these features, including by reading the manual to the camera, watching DSLR camera tutorials on the Internet, and most of all, by plenty of practice. Veteran photographers are also often quite happy to help a beginner to learn about these features, so don't be afraid to ask for help.

Sources:

1. How to Understand Your Digital SLR, WikiHow.

2. Hook Elliot, The Ultimate Guide to Learning how to use Your first DSLR, Digital Photography School.

3. Laurence NorahHow to Use a DSLR Camera: a Beginner's Photography Guide, Finding The Universe, May 5, 2019.

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Publish Date: 2018-09-04 14:24:38