Whether you’re picking up a camera for the first time or looking to move past your phone’s lens, 2026 has a genuinely good spread of options for photographers who don’t want to overspend. We pulled together five cameras worth a look right now, from true beginner-friendly bodies to a travel-ready mirrorless pick.
1. Canon EOS R100 (RF-S 18-45mm Kit) — Best for First-Timers
The Canon EOS R100 is the smallest, lightest body in Canon’s mirrorless R series, which makes it an easy camera to actually carry around instead of leaving in a bag. The 24.1MP APS-C sensor and DIGIC 8 processor handle everyday shooting well, and the kit lens is a sensible, affordable starting point for anyone stepping up from a smartphone.
2. Nikon D7500 — Best DSLR for Enthusiasts
If you’d rather have an optical viewfinder and a body built for longer shooting sessions, the Nikon D7500 is still one of the most capable DSLRs in its class. It borrows its sensor and metering system from Nikon’s higher-end bodies, and the 18-140mm lens covers everything from group shots to distant subjects without a lens change.
3 & 4. Canon EOS Rebel T7 — Best Budget DSLR (Two Kit Options)
The Rebel T7 remains one of the most recommended entry-level DSLRs, and it’s currently available in two kit configurations: the single 18-55mm lens kit for a lighter, more affordable setup, and the double zoom kit, which adds a 75-300mm telephoto lens for sports, wildlife, or anything shot from a distance. Either is a solid choice if you’re building a first DSLR kit on a budget.
5. OM SYSTEM OM-5 Mark II — Best for Travel
The OM SYSTEM OM-5 Mark II is built with outdoor use in mind — it’s weather-sealed, compact, and pairs with a versatile 14-150mm lens that covers wide landscapes and closer detail shots without swapping glass. If your camera is coming with you on hikes or trips, this is the pick on this list built specifically for that.
How to Choose
- New to photography and want the simplest setup: Canon EOS R100
- Want an optical viewfinder and DSLR handling: Nikon D7500
- Building a first kit on a tight budget: Canon EOS Rebel T7
- Need reach for sports or wildlife: Canon EOS Rebel T7 Double Zoom Kit
- Traveling often and want something compact and weather-sealed: OM SYSTEM OM-5 Mark II
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