A first camera should be easy to learn, light enough to take everywhere, and part of a system you can grow into. Subject-detect autofocus, a flip-out screen and a good kit lens matter more than megapixels.
| Budget | Best setup | Total | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under £500 | Canon EOS R50 + Canon RF-S 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM | £490 | More options → |
| Under £1,000 | Canon EOS R50 V + Sigma 18-50mm f/2.8 DC DN Contemporary | £910 | More options → |
| Under £1,500 | Sony ZV-E10 II + Sony E 16-55mm f/2.8 G | £1,460 | More options → |
| Under £2,000 | Nikon Z5 II + Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S | £1,900 | More options → |
| Under £3,000 | Canon EOS R8 + Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM | £2,610 | More options → |
| Under £5,000 | Canon EOS R8 + Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM | £2,610 | More options → |
Updated vlogging body with the A6700's 26MP sensor, 10-bit 4K and a bigger battery.
Video-first R50 with a front tally light, vertical tripod mount and no viewfinder.
Compact retro body with dials and film simulations at a starter price.
Nikon's affordable full frame with flagship-grade autofocus. Weather-sealed with two card slots.
R6 Mark II sensor in a light body. A cheap, strong low-light full frame.
Nikon's vlogging body: flip screen, no viewfinder, Z DX lenses.
Fujifilm's smallest interchangeable-lens body. No viewfinder; the screen flips out for selfies.
Light APS-C vlogging body with a flip screen and good mic. No IBIS or viewfinder.
Small, IP53-sealed hiking camera with built-in ND and handheld high-res modes.
Across all budgets, the Sony ZV-E10 II scores highest for beginners in our database, followed by the Canon EOS R50 V and Fujifilm X-T30 III. The best choice depends on budget; see the setups by price below.
A first camera should be easy to learn, light enough to take everywhere, and part of a system you can grow into. Subject-detect autofocus, a flip-out screen and a good kit lens matter more than megapixels.
No. APS-C bodies are smaller, lighter and cheaper with excellent image quality.