Which is better to buy an inexpensive and good camera in 2020 - rating of the best models in the budget and mid-range segments

What determines the quality of pictures when taking photos

Digital electronics is a tricky thing. First of all, because you cannot immediately go to the nearest place of sale and purchase the first equipment you like. This will be tantamount to putting a certain amount in the trash bin - the risk of meeting a low-quality product, or simply not meeting your requirements is too great. To understand which camera is better to buy for an amateur, you need to know the theory and how to understand the characteristics of the device.

By default, we believe that the reader of this article understands the principles of working with photography and knows at least a few nuances of high-quality photography. But there are also those who are just starting their way in this area of ​​art or periodically strive to update their "piggy bank" of knowledge. For such people, we suggest that they familiarize themselves with the basic factors on which the creation of the perfect photo depends on any conditions:

1. Color spectrum - all color variations present in the pictures are formed by mixing three primary colors - red, green and blue. If the proportions are not properly proportioned, the photo may have a specific hue, for example, bluish or reddish. Some photographers like to use this feature to express their individuality by making it their hallmark. However, there are only a few such people, most prefer to see the normal balance of colors in each frame. Therefore, keeping the proportions is one of the cornerstones of a great shot.
   

   

2. Brightness - this characteristic is the "cornerstone" of absolutely any photography. A good camera is able to correctly display the dark and light areas of the image, taking into account all the details. The best models allow you to display a reliable picture even at night when the brightness is practically zero.
   

   

3. Sharpness - maximum detail and the absence of blurry areas also serve as significant indicators of an excellent shot. The key to their presence is the observance of sharpness. However, his achievement is one of the most difficult even for professionals in their field.
4. Photographer skills - as you might guess, this factor is important in any work. A beginner or a pseudo-master is unlikely to achieve the desired result, even with expensive and high-quality equipment. An experienced and skillful photographer, on the other hand, will be able to create the perfect shot even with the camera of a budget smartphone.

NOTE!

For the most effective color gamut adjustment, do not neglect a parameter such as "white balance". It is able to adjust the hue depending on weather conditions or specific lighting in the room.

The most important and useful camera specifications for those looking to buy a budget digital camera

All the parameters described by us are achieved in the camera using certain characteristics laid down by the developers. When choosing an inexpensive camera with good photo quality, most people are faced with the problem of abundance. offered opportunities, which are actively flaunting both manufacturing firms and various stores in their advertisements. In fact, some of the functions are only of practical importance. What should you pay attention to in the first place, what options will allow even an amateur to achieve a good result?

Matrix type

98% of the entire market for modern photographic equipment consists of digital devices. The processing and transformation of the image in them is carried out by a special microcircuit - a matrix. Most often, the following options can be found in the camera:

1. CMOS - despite the fact that this technology is used to create microscopes and telescopes (!), Gradually it was able to gain great popularity among cameras. In the budget segment, we will most often meet this particular modification. They are distinguished by decent performance, low price and the ability to shoot videos. However, there is also a "fly in the ointment"? it will not always be possible to get a good shot.
2. Ccd - unlike the previous technology, this matrix allows you to create real masterpieces of photography. Yes, it is demanding on camera resources, its price is much higher than other offers. But its presence in the camera confirms the proverb "Art requires sacrifice." In our examples, for obvious reasons, the CCD modification will rarely be installed. # 6. Outwardly similar to CMOS, but the principle is completely different.
3. Live-MOS - "alternative" to economical CMOS-matrices and progressive CCD-technologies. It is quite rare, since it is patented by a reputable company Panasonic, which uses its advantages in products under its own brand. Sometimes such a module can also be found on models from Leica or Olympus.

Also, the physical size of the matrix will be of no small importance. The principle here is quite simple - the greater the length and width, the more light will fall on it. Accordingly, the user will receive a better and more reliable image.

Light sensitivity (ISO)

As we said earlier, shooting at night or in low light is a real challenge for any device. And this is where the matrix's ability to receive more or less light in different situations comes into play. In digital devices, this feature is called light sensitivity. Most of the popular models work in the range from 400 to 800 ISO, and believe me, this is quite enough for comfortable use. Are high light sensitivity indicators "two sides of the same coin"? they are good in low light or inability to use the flash, but it can be tricky to get a good angle.

Aperture value (aperture)

The light for the camera is always "Alpha and Omega". And another confirmation of this is the aperture ratio - the throughput of the lens. In specifications, it is traditionally referred to as f with a slash. With the value, everything is pretty tricky - the smaller it is, the better the result will be. When you see an aperture rate exceeding f / 8, try to avoid buying - the best budget cameras will never come equipped with a similar aperture.

Image stabilization

Sometimes people, taking a camera to shoot, may notice such an unpleasant effect as hand shake. The results of this phenomenon are deplorable - blurry and ugly photography. The developers took this specifics into account by creating an image stabilization technology. It can be digital or optical. The second option shows good efficiency in all situations. Unfortunately, this characteristic is not always present in inexpensive models. However, try to choose products equipped with a similar module.

Optical zoom

We think most of you have used binoculars at least once in your life. This remarkable device not only became an object of attention for military personnel and romantics, but also to a certain extent served as the basis for a very important function of each camera - the ability to approximate the picture closer to to the user. In photographic equipment, this ability is called zoom (from the English. zoom - scale). As with stabilization, there are two zoom options - optical and digital. It is the optical ability to zoom in on the image that is of the greatest importance. However, try not to chase the 20x30x zoom, as you will not be able to achieve the required quality of the desired shots at high magnifications.

Autofocus availability

Each photo contains the main elements of the composition, for the sake of which you pick up the camera (except, perhaps, large panoramic landscapes, but this is more the exception than the rule). For this object to be most clearly visible, autofocus is required. The cheapest products are mainly equipped with an outdated contrast option - try to forget about it and ignore such offers. A more practical solution would be to opt for phase detection autofocus. Some models are equipped with a hybrid modification, but they are not so common.

Types of budget cameras, their advantages and disadvantages

Thanks to the efforts of engineers, the number of available photographic devices of various levels is growing every year. Offers that were previously only relevant for real professionals are gradually evolving. Some are so powerful that even entry-level or amateur photographers can buy them. What kinds of inexpensive cameras with a good camera deserve to be chosen by smart buyers?

Compact digital cameras

Most of the models that we will consider further are in this segment. In every large and small electronics store, there are at least a dozen available options. And if you search among the proposals on the Internet resources, the list will be more than all four volumes of "War and Peace". Among all the motley variety, the following modifications of compact cameras can be distinguished:

View	Advantages	Flaws	An example of a typical "representative"
"Soap dish" category "full automatic"	Low cost, simplified photography system, compact size.	The minimum set of functions and settings, mediocre picture quality, short-lived service life.
"Soap dish" with extended functionality	A wider range of possibilities and modes, good hardware and optics, compact dimensions.	The cost is higher than the previous option, there are still not enough resources for high quality images.
"Soap dish" of the category "Ultrasound"	Good complemented "optics", the best quality indicators among all "soap dishes".	An even higher price, when zooming in too closely with the zoom, the quality of the images is just awful.

Amateur SLR cameras

As we said earlier, some professional devices are slowly moving into the mainstream segment. For the average person who does not strive for an ideal display of what he saw, the offer to buy such a camera is unlikely to arouse enthusiasm. But for true connoisseurs and enthusiastic people, buying a budget "DSLR" will be the fulfillment of another cherished desire.

View	Advantages	Flaws	An example of a typical "representative"
Hybrid camera or "mirrorless"	Compact size, good level of "optics", moderate "price tag".	High energy consumption, an appropriate level of ownership is required.
Amateur SLR camera	The best performance in terms of performance, excellent "optics" and "hardware".	High cost, high energy consumption, certain skills are required.

What an inexpensive and good digital camera to buy for a beginner photographer: TOP-5 models in 2019

And now good news for those who still have not decided on the choice, looking for the perfect solution, the Tehno edition. Guru is starting to compile a unique top of ideal cameras! The first to come to our court are digital modifications, maybe not so powerful, but they do not require additional investments, both material and intellectual.

Sony CyberShot DSC-W830. The family will be happy

Cheerful home gatherings, outings with your family, holidays with an abundance of guests... If you like this kind of leisure and strive to capture as many memorable moments as possible, then we recommend buying an inexpensive Sony CyberShot camera DSC-W830. Compact size, coupled with a reasonable price of 8,000 rubles - there is simply no better solution for a large family with a modest budget! Keep in mind that underneath the beautiful body lies a powerful f / 3.3 aperture, adequate 8x optical zoom, progressive CCD and image stabilization. We think that now you will no longer have the question of which camera is better to buy for family shots, and money will be saved for more important purchases. Editorial rating Tehno. Guru – 9,4/10 .

Sony CyberShot DSC-W830

Fujifilm X20. "Stylish" economy

Rounding off our top is the elegant and personalized Fujifilm X20. Its vintage-inspired look is unlikely to leave anyone indifferent. And the filling to match the "suit"? special X-Trans CMOS-matrix, the ability to install additional lenses, f / 2.0 aperture. This, as well as a host of other outstanding advantages, turn our nominee into a transitional link between digital and mirror devices. Masterpiece! Editorial rating Tehno. Guru – 9,8/10 .

Fujifilm X20

Canon PowerShot SX610 HS. Price, convenience and size are the best examples of success

If you trust only the most reliable and trusted manufacturers, then the best choice would be to buy a Canon camera. Among all the variety of the lineup, the most interesting will be an inexpensive and good "soap box" camera Canon PowerShot SX610 HS. With a price of 9,900 rubles, this inexpensive miracle technology has a good CMOS matrix with a size of 2.3 inches, optical image stabilization, f / 3.8 aperture, as well as a powerful 18x optical zoom. Together with this, the device has built-in Wi-Fi and NFC-module. Editorial rating Tehno. Guru – 9,3/10.

Canon PowerShot

We invite you to make sure of the correctness of our choice - read the opinion of one of the buyers of this camera.

Richin, Moscow: “Pros: small, cool, functional, great zoom.

Disadvantages: Price after the dollar has risen.

We decided to buy a Canon PowerShot SX610 HS, chose according to the parameters, they approached us, decided to take it. It is very handy, small, handy, the pictures are excellent, on the fotik you can actually play with light and color, set the settings to your liking. Great zoom. The flash is retracted and removed mechanically, so it's up to you whether to get it or not. On the back side, the screen is quite large. The battery holds for quite a long time, it is definitely enough for a day, and so it lies in our bag, and we take pictures as we wish. There is wi-fi as pampering, but it's nice and sometimes we use it. "

Nikon CoolPix S7000. Competitors keep up

Speaking about Canon, it is impossible to calmly ignore their main rivals. Moreover, the idea of ​​buying a Nikon camera is a very reasonable "alternative". We recommend giving your preference to the inexpensive Nikon CoolPix S7000 model - it honestly fulfills its price of 16,000 rubles. "On board" is about the same functionality as the previous nominee. But the cost is not too high - Nikon's aperture is f / 3.4, which allows you to take more detailed and reliable photos. Face recognition function will be a nice bonus. Editorial rating Tehno. Guru – 9,4/10.

Nikon CoolPix

Olympus Tough TG-4. The "star" of any journey

Some of the readers undoubtedly love to travel both in Russia and abroad. On any trip, you want to keep in memory as many sights, events and smiles on your own tanned face as possible. Especially for you, we offer you the clear winner in the category "Best Travel Camera in 2019" in the face of Olympus Tough TG-4. Dust- and spill-resistant housing, phenomenal f / 2.0 aperture, built-in compass, pressure gauge and even a GPS module - what else does a traveler need to be happy? The price of 22,000 rubles may scare off, but more economical solutions will be completely unsatisfactory. Editorial rating Tehno. Guru – 9,5/10 .

Olympus tough

What an inexpensive but good DSLR camera to buy for a novice photographer in 2019: TOP-3 powerful options

DSLRs, unlike their digital counterparts, offer much more professional solutions for every photo. This imposes certain responsibilities on the buyer. For an ordinary person, such a decision is inappropriate, since he is unlikely to be able to use all its capabilities of the camera at 100%. But if you are a beginner photographer and are just embarking on the path of development, such a model will allow you to determine your further needs. Especially for such people - our independent TOP-3 offers on the modern market!

Canon EOS 100D Kit. Retaining shades and details

If you only like to work with famous brands and don't want to worry about the end result, the Canon EOS 100D Kit will be the best companion for creating the perfect shots. And most importantly, this is one of the most compact SLR cameras among all developments. The average price in Russia is 31,000 rubles. Editorial rating Tehno. Guru – 9,8/10. You can also read the review of the Canon EOS 1300D Kit and compare two models of the same line.

Canon EOS 100D Kit

Nikon D3300. The diligent beginner's dream

The price tag of this technique is within 23,000 rubles, which makes it a more advantageous offer in comparison with the previous nominee. However, this model has one notable drawback - the lack of image stabilization. The purchase of a special tripod will help to cope with it. Editorial rating Tehno. Guru – 9,7/10 .

Nikon camera

Let's see what buyers think about the merits and demerits of this product.

Helenashch, Belarus, Minsk:“Advantages: shooting at high ISO, modern processor, matrix without a low-pass filter, interchangeable optics.

Disadvantages: If you figure out the settings, then no.

Nikon D3300 in general? this is my first DSLR. The Nikon D3300 is positioned as an entry-level camera, so to speak, for future professionals. If you, like me, have not used a digital camera before, then you will definitely like the Nikon D3300 and will seem like a very professional camera.

At first, of course, it is very difficult with the interface. I'll make a reservation right away that I am a non-professional photographer. I liked the D-Lighting retouch menu. It is possible to remove "red eyes", crop, apply filters, superimpose images on top of each other and much more.

With a DSLR camera like Nikon D3300 it is better to take photographs of those objects that cannot be obtained with conventional cameras. Such, for example, as photographs of the night starry sky. But here you need a tripod.

In general, any SLR camera involves the use of manual settings and the maximum participation of the photographer in the process. If you are not going to spend part of your time studying the settings, then in this case it is better not to purchase such a camera. It is better to buy a digital camera with automatic settings or a smartphone with a good camera. If there is a desire and opportunity to understand the settings well, in the future you can already take great photos. "

Pentax K-50 Kit. "Die hard" in the 2019 DSLR rating.

Yes, this is the most expensive option of all those offered (about 44,000 rubles). But we could not pass by - in addition to the obvious advantages of the technical part, this "beast" is equipped with a case protected from temperature differences, as well as dust and moisture. So you can not only take beautiful shots, but also keep the device working even in the most extreme conditions. And do not forget that Pentax is one of the leaders in the production of budget DSLRs. Editorial rating Tehno. Guru – 9,9/10

Pentax K-50

Which camera is better to buy for a novice photographer and photo lovers

Few companies today produce high-quality photo equipment at affordable prices. Some firms simply "grab" a piece of the market by expanding their production capacity. But are they worth the purchase? Which manufacturers might be of genuine interest to a beginner in photography or someone who needs everyday technology for a pleasant leisure time?

So which one is better to buy an inexpensive and good camera in 2019? Summing up

It's time to draw conclusions. Who won the Best Budget Camera in 209? Among digital devices in relation to price? quality first place we still give Sony CyberShot DSC-W830. Despite the drawbacks, it is a very handy camera for everyday use.

In SLR cameras the best price? quality "unconditionally possesses Nikon D3300. If you are an aspiring photographer, don't ignore the opportunity to acquire this wonderful technique. Of course, our opinion is not the final authority. You can study each of the products described by us in more detail on your own and draw your own conclusions. If you still have any questions, we hope that the video below will help you find all the missing answers: