Best Camera For 500 Bucks

Best Camera For 500 Bucks
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So what can 500 bucks get you?. The answer is the cool gadgets, a laptop, and best of all, the Best Camera For 500 Bucks. This blog post covers seven cameras that fall within this price range, but the overall best is the Nikon D3200. 

Best Camera For 500 Bucks Comparison Table

Click the link to get the best camera for 500 bucks on Amazon now.

S/NProductImageSpecifications
1Nikon D3200MODEL NAME-Nikon D3200

FORM FACTOR- SLR, Compact

OPTICAL ZOOM- 3.00x

VIDEO CAPTURE RES-1080p

OPTICAL SENSOR RES-24.2 megapixels

WEIGHT- 1.11 pounds
2Panasonic Full HD VideoMODEL NAME-HC-V180K

FORM FACTOR- compact

OPTICAL ZOOM- 50x

VIDEO CAPTURE RES-1080p

OPTICAL SENSOR RES-CMOS

WEIGHT-7.5 ounces
3Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark IIMODEL NAME-Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II

FORM FACTOR- compact

OPTICAL ZOOM- 3x

VIDEO CAPTURE RES-1080p

OPTICAL SENSOR RES-20.1 megapixels

WEIGHT- 7.2 ounces
4Panasonic LUMIX FZ80MODEL NAME-Panasonic Lumix FZ80

FORM FACTOR-compact

OPTICAL ZOOM- 60x

VIDEO CAPTURE RES-2160p

OPTICAL SENSOR RES-18.9 megapixels

WEIGHT- 1.36 pounds
5GoPro HERO9 BlackMODEL NAME-HERO9 Black

FORM FACTOR- N/A

OPTICAL ZOOM-1

VIDEO CAPTURE RES-5K

OPTICAL SENSOR RES-N/A

WEIGHT- 0.70 pounds
6Samsung NX2000 20MODEL NAME-Samsung NX2000

FORM FACTOR-Mirrorless

OPTICAL ZOOM- N/A

VIDEO CAPTURE RES-N/A

OPTICAL SENSOR RES-N/A

WEIGHT- 8 ounces
7Panasonic LUMIX DC-ZS70KMODEL NAME-Panasonic LUMIX DC-ZS70

FORM FACTOR-Digital camera

OPTICAL ZOOM-30x

VIDEO CAPTURE RES-2160p

OPTICAL SENSOR RES-20.3 megapixels

WEIGHT- 11.4 ounces
 

Compare The Top 7 On One Page

Best Camera For 500 Bucks 

Cameras are a way of keeping those beautiful memories all living long after the moment is gone. 

And these days they are a lot of cameras offering you lifelike pictures and video quality.

These cameras, however, are believed to be expensive. 

On the contrary, this is not true. 

Also, most cameras that give quality for your money are not as expensive as you would think. 

Hence you can get the best Nikon, Canon, or Panasonic for 500 bucks. 

Besides that, you can get a video camera with 4K quality photos for the price of 500 bucks.

For instance, you can get DSLR cameras and mirrorless cameras. 

Let’s consider the types of video cameras available for 500 bucks to understand this better. 

Types Of Cameras Available For 500 Bucks 

DSLR cameras are the most sought-after cameras for several reasons in professional photography.

DSLR

Although true, they aren’t void of a few disadvantages. 

Notwithstanding, their advantages override their disadvantages. 

Hence why they are sought-after.  

Firstly, they come with an interchangeable lens.

Thus giving room for flexibility to use just one camera for different types of scenes or shoots by just changing the lens.

However, the lens doesn’t come cheap, which presents you with one of its relative disadvantages.  

Next is mirrorless cameras. 

MIRRORLESS CAMERA

Also, the mirrorless camera makes the competition tight as it all but surpasses the DSLR cameras. 

This is all thanks to their autofocus system. 

The autofocus system allows you to obtain focus on the subject automatically and maintains the focus to allow you to get the best shot.

Consequently allowing you to deliver crisp and rich in details images. 

ACTION CAMERAS 

As the name implies, it is a camera that lets capture all those action moments. 

In shorter words, movements in motion get captured with action cameras.

Additionally, they come as the small and light cameras you can find. 

For example, you have GoPro cameras. 

Also, they are versatile and adequate for traveling from place to place.

Overall, these are the best for capturing sports moments like skydiving and hiking. 

DIGITAL CAMERAS 

When you need an affordable option that isn’t Mirrorless or DSLR cameras, then you have digital cameras. 

You can also call them point and shoot cameras. 

Regardless of all you have read, the two stand-out cameras still are the DSLR and mirrorless camera.  

This is because both of them offer continuous shooting and image stabilization. 

However, the mirrorless takes the lead when it comes to video recording because they can capture full HD videos. 

In addition to that, they are compact and lightweight. 

SOME WORDS FOR YOU 

There is a lot you can get for 500 bucks in the camera world. 

However, it all depends on what you want to use it for.

For instance, if you are filming outdoor action activities like skydiving, jogging, and more. 

You will do better with action cameras like GoPro because they allow you to film yourself by attaching the camera to your helmet or headgear. 

In addition to that, they are small and lightweight. 

So, you can travel to mountain tops and specific locations without getting weighed down by the size of your camera. 

Having said that, let’s consider the best type of camera worth 500 bucks. 

7 Top Favorites For The Best Camera For 500 Bucks

11. Nikon D3200 Best Camera For 500 Bucks 

When you want a laptop to come along with you on your travel escapades, you call on the Nikon D3200 because it’s compact and lightweight. 

Although compact, this camera comes with a firm hold to minimize camera shake and ensure that your pictures come out looking sharp and clear.

 

Plus, it features a large 921,000-dot, ultra-high-resolution LCD where you can preview pictures before and after capture.

Even more, it comes with an 11-Point Autofocus to allow you to capture detailed images of your subjects.

The AutoFocus tracks the body movement of your subject and locks in your camera’s focus on the subject so you can capture a clear and detailed image of the subject as fast as possible.

IMAGE QUALITY 

With this camera, you’re assured of getting high-quality images thanks to the 24.2 MP DX-format CMOS sensor that captures crisp and clear images even in bright or low light areas.

Similarly, the EXPEED 3 image processor processes the image using various creative in-camera effects to deliver beautiful images. 

CONNECTIVITY 

Again you can get great pictures on your smartphone using the WU-1 optional wireless mobile adapter.

WHO SHOULD GET THIS?

If you need an affordable camera to take quality pictures, this is for you. 

PROS 

  • Easy to use. 
  • Quality build. 
  • DSLR entry-level camera. 
  • Nice lens kit. 
  • It has an 18-55mm lens. 

CONS 

  • Small frame. 

OUR WORD 

Nonetheless, it is still the best camera for 500 bucks. 

Click the image above to buy now on Amazon.

22. Panasonic Full HD Video

Panasonic is known for the 4K cameras like the Panasonic FZ300. 

However, they also have lesser cameras that shoot in full HD and are equally good. 

For this, it combines optical and intelligent zoom to allow you to pull in closer to your focus.

Specifically, the optical zoom offers a long 50x zoom range whereas, the intelligent zoom feature offers a 90x zoom range.

Thanks to the Optical and intelligent zoom feature, you can zoom in on distant objects and still get a clear shot.

In the same way, a 28 mm wide-angle lens does the job of capturing wide images in smaller areas. 

Hence, this lens will come in handy if you need to take a group shot in a limited space.

Furthermore, on the unique abilities of this camera- it includes 5-axis O.I.S (image stabilization).

With this, you need not fear that your images will appear blurry if you need to tilt or bend the camera to get the best shot.

This feature will ensure that you get a clear shot regardless of your hand movements.

Likewise, it also delivers beautiful images and videos even in low or bright-lit conditions, thanks to the BSI Sensor.  

IMAGE QUALITY 

Overall, with the combination of the optical/intelligent image stabilization feature, 28mm wide-able lense, and advanced BSI sensors, you can rest assured that your images/videos will be stunning.

Plus, you have various studio effects to choose from to get your images looking the way they want.

Some of these creative filter effects like 8mm Movie, Silent Movie, Miniature Effect, and Time Lapse Recording.

CONNECTIVITY 

It has an HDMI out and AV output.

WHO SHOULD GET THIS? 

Perhaps you are looking for a camera with good sound quality, here you go. 

PROS 

  • Amazing zoom. 
  • Good entry-level camera.
  • Video quality. 
  • Affordable.

CONS 

  • SD card compatibility issues
  • Poor battery life.
  • Low-light performance is not so impressive.

OUR WORD 

Regardless, it 

Click the image above to buy now on Amazon.

33. Canon PowerShot G9 X Mark II Best Camera For 500 Bucks 

Go wherever and whenever with this pocket-size and ultra-slim camera from Canon. 

In addition to its ultra-slim design, it comes with high-performing features such as the DIGIC 7 Image Processor. 

Also, this camera gives you the flexibility to choose your preferred picture style from a list of eight preset modes.

Each of these modes has been preset with the right settings to deliver stunning images.

Furthermore, it features a Time-Lapse Movie function that allows you to compress those long memorable moments into short, compelling, and interesting videos with high resolution and lifelike clarity. 

IMAGE QUALITY 

Its 1.0 Inch, 20.1 Megapixel High sensitivity CMOS sensor combined with Digic 7 image processor will deliver images with the speed and quality you’ll be proud of.

Besides that, it offers a touch screen interface on its 3-inch screen. 

CONNECTIVITY 

This camera supports Bluetooth connectivity to other devices.

Likewise, it is compatible with iOS versions 8.4,9.3 and 10.2 and Android smartphone and tablet versions 4.1,4.2,4.3,4.4,5.0,5.1,6.0,7.0,7.1

WHO SHOULD GET THIS? 

If you are looking for a camera that opens up your creativity, this is it. 

PROS 

  • Image stabilization. 
  • Easy to use. 
  • Autofocus. 

CONS 

  • No viewfinder. 

OUR WORD 

It is an effective pocket-friendly camera. 

Click the image above to buy now on Amazon.

44. Panasonic LUMIX FZ80

Previously, we mentioned point-and-shoot cameras, thus why we bring you the Panasonic LUMIX. 

However, this is not just a point-and-shoot camera, but it’s a camera that travels anywhere with you. 

Plus, it offers a long zoom that allows you to cover beautiful landscapes all in one shot. 

In addition to that, the low light capture feature lets you capture the beautiful sceneries of nightlife outings and more. 

Hence, no more dim/dull-looking nighttime photos/videos.

Besides that, if you are big on always having your camera in your hands, you have nothing to worry about with the comfortable ergonomic grip. 

Furthermore, it offers a post focus feature th allows you to pick your preferred focus points after your shots.

Even more, thanks to the Focus stacking feature, you can select more than one focus point at once to add greater depth to your images. 

It also offers comes with the optical stabilization feature- a feature that prevents blurred image output due to camera and hand movements while trying to take a picture.

In the same vein, the LUMIX FZ80 also some with a high-resolution Viewfinder that makes subjects appear crystal clear through the lens even under bright sunlight.

IMAGE QUALITY 

The camera offers its quality in 4K visuals, and you can capture ultra-high-resolution 4K video at super-fast 30 frames per second. 

Above all, its 18.1 megapixel MOS sensor, a plus 60X zooms DC Vario lens, and other features help deliver stunning 4k images/videos.

CONNECTIVITY 

For this department, it supports USB Charging and Wi-Fi Connectivity to other devices.

Whereas, the following, HDMI D (Micro), Micro USB, and USB 2.0, allow you to connect to other devices.

WHO SHOULD GET THIS? 

If you are a traveler and need a device to capture the beautiful scenes outdoors, this is for you. 

PROS 

  • Viewfinder. 
  • Post focus. 
  • 4k quality. 

CONS 

  • Low light conditions are poor. 

OUR WORD 

Nonetheless, it is the best 4K pocket-friendly camera. 

Click the image above to buy now on Amazon.

55. GoPro HERO9 Black Best Camera For 500 Bucks 

When we spoke of action cameras, we were talking about the GoPro HERO9 camera. 

GoPro cameras offer impressive smoothness with the most advanced video stabilization ever. 

Hence, you can be in fast motion yet capture every move or stunt.

Also, this camera is built solid to withstand harsh conditions underwater (up to 33ft) and on land.

You can use this to capture stunts underwater. 

Even more, other cameras will give you video recordings in 4k.

Not this one.

Instead, it allows you to record videos in 5k then, it delivers photos in 20 MP.

To add to that, it comes with the HyperSmooth 3.0 feature- an advanced image stabilization feature that ensures your videos look clear and smooth irrespective of your body movements.

It also offers a Schedule capture feature that allows you to set your preferred recording/capture time.

Likewise, you can also set the duration/time frame you want this camera to capture or record your moves.

IMAGE QUALITY 

As said earlier, with this camera, you get 5k video quality, 20 MP photos, and full HD visuals via the webcam. 

CONNECTIVITY 

It can connect to your phone and laptop via the Quick App.

WHO SHOULD GET THIS? 

Perhaps you want an action camera, then look no further. 

PROS 

  • 5K visuals and photo. 
  • Front face camera. 
  • Better built-in software. 

CONS 

  • Poor connectivity options. 

OUR WORD 

Nevertheless, it is a quality action camera. 

Click the image above to buy now on Amazon.

66. Samsung NX2000 20

When you want a mirrorless camera, the Samsung NX2000 is the best one to go for.

First off, it offers certain smart features like; social Media Upload, E-mail, Direct Link, Mobile Link, PC Auto-backup, Remote Viewfinder, All share, Cloud Service. 

You can bring this camera with you to the next sports game you’re watching to capture every thrilling moment from start to finish.

This is because this camera offers a continuous shooting feature at an impressive speed of 8 frames per second. 

It also comes with a hybrid Autofocus system- a feature that allows you to get clear shots of moving objects without compromising image quality.

Similarly, it has an ISO range from 100 to 25,600 to allow you to capture high-quality images regardless of the times of the day or lighting situations.

IMAGE QUALITY 

It’s equipped with an ultra-sensitive 20.3MP APS-C CMOS Sensor that makes all your pictures appear in full detail. 

The camera, however, doesn’t have menu buttons to operate your device. 

But it has a 3.7-inch WVGA touch screen interface to assist in navigating your device. 

Consequently allowing you to see what your images look like before and after capture.

CONNECTIVITY 

This camera comes with built-in Wi-Fi for file-sharing or transfer.

You can also connect to your smartphone via NFC to share files or activate the Remote Viewfinder feature.

WHO SHOULD GET THIS? 

If you need a camera that allows you to broaden your creative imagination, here you go. 

PROS 

  • Solid camera build. 
  • Touch screen. 
  • Easy control. 

CONS 

  • Low light performance is not so excellent. 

OUR WORD 

Regardless it is a quality camera for 500 bucks. 

Click the image above to buy now on Amazon.

77. Panasonic LUMIX DC-ZS70K Best Camera For 500 Bucks 

Finally, we have a digital camera and another pocket-sized camera. 

This camera’s control ring allows you to easily control the aperture, shutter speed, zoom and focus manually.

Hence, you can customize these settings to your prfocusnce 

The rays from the sun can sometimes stop you from capturing that perfect moment. 

However, thanks to the LUMIX ZS70’s 0.2-inch 1,166k-dot LVF (Live View Finder), taking pictures without seeing the subject clearly will be a thing of the past. 

This camera also comes with 5-Axis OIS that compensates for 5 different levels of hand, camera, and body movements so you can get a clear shot.

It also has the Post Focus / Focus staking features that allow you to tweak your images even after the shot.

IMAGE QUALITY 

Usually, smartphones are the best devices for selfies.

Although true, the Panasonic camera changes all that with 180- degree tiltable monitor-hence you’ll always get the perfect selfie. 

Plus, it offers a touch feature-enabled screen that simplifies selfie photography. 

Also, all images will be captured via the 20.3 Megapixel MOS sensor that delivers high-quality images.

CONNECTIVITY 

You can connect to multiple devices using WI-FI. 

WHO SHOULD GET THIS? 

Perhaps you want sharper selfies in 4K quality.

Then here you go. 

PROS 

  • Point and shoot. 
  • Low light performance.
  • Impressive optical zoom. 
  • Affordable.
  • Impressive resolution.

CONS 

  •  

OUR WORD 

It is a quality selfie camera for 500 bucks. 

Click the image above to buy now on Amazon.

Conclusion On The Best Camera For 500 Bucks 

In the end, every camera on this list offers impressive performance for cameras under the price range of 500 bucks.

However, our overall best remains the Nikon D3200.

Tap the link above to buy it now on Amazon.