After reviewing hundreds of cameras, we’ve pinpointed several key characteristics that distinguish the best beginner cameras: easy of use, value for money, image quality, as well as a set of features that gives learners room to grow. In our experience, these attributes can’t always be found on the best camera phones.
From all of our in-depth testing, the entry-level camera we’d personally choose is the Canon EOS R10. We found it lightweight, accessible and capable of capturing impressive stills. It’s the camera we’d want to learn with if we were just getting into photography. That being said, we know that different camera formats and features appeal to different people.
The purpose of this guide is to give you a complete picture of the best beginner cameras available in 2024, whether that’s a DSLR, mirrorless or compact. We’ve tested them all to see how they perform in real-world conditions, and used that feedback to compile our list.
Top 3 picks
Want a shortcut to the best beginner camera for your needs? Use our summary round-up below to quickly identify your ideal entry-level camera, then jump down to our full write-ups using the links beneath each entry.
The best beginner camera overall
A compact build, good handling and modern autofocus make the EOS R10 a great value powerhouse for beginners.
The best value beginner camera
With a capable 20MP Micro Four Thirds sensor and impressive image stabilization, the Mark IV is superb little stills camera.
The best everyday beginner camera
Combining solid specs with a stylish design that’s easy in the hand, the X-T30 II is fantastic all-rounder for daily shooting.
Best by use-case
The best beginner camera for video
Small but powerful, the ZV-E10 is a versatile vlogging tool for newbies who want to hone their video skills for a fair price.
The best mid-range hybrid for beginners
Accessible handling and automated shooting modes make the X-S20 a great mirrorless hybrid for beginners to learn and grow with.
The best retro camera for beginners
Its looks alone won’t improve your shooting, but the Nikon Z fc offers a stunning blend of retro style and mirrorless power.
The best instant camera for beginners
Simple to use and fun to shoot with, the Instax Mini 12 is perfect for trying your hand at point-and-shoot instant photography.
The best beginner DSLR camera
Compact for a DSLR, the Nikon D3500 is affordable, intuitive to use, produces excellent images and lasts for ages on one charge.
The best compact for photo quality
One of the few true digital pocket compacts remaining uses a versatile 40mm f/2.8 lens to produce sharp 24MP RAW stills from it's large APS-C sensor.
Tim is TechRadar's Cameras Editor. He's worked as a photographer and journalist for more than 15 years. In that time, he's shot with countless cameras from a range of manufacturers, including entry-level cameras of all formats. As a result, he’s developed a deep technical knowledge of what makes an excellent camera for beginners. Tim notes, "beginner cameras come all kinds of shapes and sizes. We've tried to cover all bases in this guide, from compacts and instant cameras to mirrorless models and larger DSLRs. Each option has something unique to offer that sets it apart from a camera phone."
The best beginner cameras in 2024
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Below you'll find full write-ups for each of the best beginner cameras in our list. We've tested each one extensively, so you can be sure that our recommendations can be trusted.
The best beginner camera overall
Canon EOS R10 sample images
✅ You like photographing sports and wildlife: It's a pricier option in this list but the R10 comes with impressive action specs and autofocus performance.
✅ You want decent video quality too: Primarily a a stills camera, the EOS R10 also shoots crips 4K video with auto color.
❌ You want a good choice of lenses: Years after Canon's first RF-S cameras and there's a distinct lack of native APS-C lenses.
❌ You want a vlogging camera: The EOS R10 shoots lovely video, but the Sony ZV-E10 is a better choice if vlogging is a priority.
Setting a fresh bar for entry-level camera performance, the Canon EOS R10 comfortably eclipses contemporary smartphones. Equipped with a speedy Digic X processor, this mirrorless model benefits from the latest autofocus abilities.
In testing, we found its AF tracking impressively intelligent and intuitive for beginners. Claimed burst speeds of 15fps with the mechanical shutter also proved accurate during our time with the R10. Together, those skills mean it’s fast enough to capture fleeting action, which you can’t say of every beginner camera. What’s more, the lightweight chassis is comfortably familiar even for novices, with an articulating touchscreen offering useful accessibility.
The compact form factor makes it easy to wield when trying new techniques, while dual control dials mean it’s simple to tweak settings. A lack of in-body image stabilization does limit the R10’s abilities after dark, but image quality is decent enough, with plenty of detail to pull out of the shadows. So it’s not a revolutionary model, but its specs and control setup put the R10 top of our list for beginners. Here’s hoping Canon adds more native APS-C lenses to sweeten the deal.
Read our in-depth Canon EOS R10 review
The best value beginner camera
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV sample images
✅ You're going to buy accompanying lenses: With more than 10 years of investment there's literally hundreds of native micro four thirds lenses to choose from.
✅ You don't like the idea of a tripod: Decent in-body image stabilization can keep your handheld shots sharp even in low light.
❌ You want a truly hybrid camera: You'll get decent video quality from the E-M10 IV, but there's a few missing features for vlogging.
❌ You want the very best autofocus: Phase detect autofocus, found on the likes of the Fujifilm X-T30 Mark II, is better than the contrast system used here.
If you’re looking for a simple, compact mirrorless camera that consistently captures attractive images, the OM-D E-M10 Mark IV definitely deserves a spot on your shortlist. Designed primarily for smartphone switchers, its ergonomic grip, approachable button layout and handy flip-down touchscreen give it good versatility, without cluttering the classically styled shell.
It might lack some of the more advanced features of its pricier rivals – including microphone and USB-C ports – but it does a brilliant job as a stills camera. In fact, we found that it's the most photo-centric camera in its category, delivering great stills during our tests.
An Advanced Photo mode makes it easy to have a go at advanced techniques such as long exposures, while the in-body image stabilization system – borrowed from the flagship E-M1 – is superb. The sensor resolution is decent at 20.3MP and, because it’s a Micro Four Thirds camera, it has one of the widest lens catalogues on the market. It might not grab headlines, but the Mark IV is a fantastic first camera for beginners.
Read our in-depth Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV review
