10 Best Cheap Photography Cameras 2025 in the United States

The Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR Camera is an affordable option for those interested in photography without breaking the bank. This camera comes with a 24.1 MP CMOS sensor, which is excellent for capturing detailed images. It has a decent ISO range of 100-6400, expandable to 12800, making it suitable for different lighting conditions. The built-in Wi-Fi and NFC technology allow easy sharing of photos and videos, which is a nice bonus for social media enthusiasts.

The included 18-55mm lens provides a versatile range, ideal for everyday photography needs. The 9-point autofocus system is somewhat basic but functional for standard photography tasks. Video capabilities are also solid with Full HD 1080p resolution, although it doesn't support 4K. The battery life is respectable, offering up to 500 shots on a single charge. The camera's build quality is lightweight yet durable, making it easy to handle for prolonged periods.

However, it doesn't offer a touch screen, and the screen is fixed, which might limit some creative angles for shooting. For beginners and those looking to casually venture into photography, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 is a well-rounded choice. Advanced users might find the autofocus system and the continuous shooting speed of 3 fps somewhat limiting. It's a great entry-level DSLR that balances performance, ease of use, and cost effectively.

The Sony RX100 VII Premium Compact Camera is equipped with a 1.0-type stacked CMOS sensor, offering 20.1 megapixels for high-resolution images. The Zeiss Vario Sonnar T 24-200mm lens provides a versatile zoom range with a large aperture, making it suitable for various photography needs. The camera boasts advanced autofocus with 357-point phase detection and 425-point contrast detection, ensuring quick and accurate focusing. Its ISO range extends up to 25600, which is beneficial for shooting in low light conditions.

For video enthusiasts, the camera supports 4K recording with active mode image stabilization, AI-based real-time tracking, and a microphone jack for improved audio quality. The build quality is solid, with a compact and lightweight design that enhances portability. The ergonomic design includes a tilting touch screen, which adds convenience during shooting. However, the battery life might be limiting with its 1240mAh capacity, especially for extended shooting sessions.

The camera’s continuous shooting speed of 20 fps is impressive but may be overkill for casual users. Additionally, while it offers professional-level features, the price point might be higher than what is typically considered 'cheap' for photography cameras. This makes the RX100 VII a better fit for serious hobbyists or semi-professionals who need advanced capabilities in a compact form.