Best entry-level digital SLR cameras

Avid photographers who want full creative control over their images should consider a digital SLR (single-lens reflex) camera. These models offer the advanced features that experienced shooters need, and all of them are compatible with a wide range of interchangeable lenses and accessories. Of course, they're generally more expensive than point-and-shoot cameras, with prices starting at about $600 for the body only. The good news is that if you've already invested in a set of 35mm SLR lenses and accessories, there's a good chance that you'll be able to find a digital SLR body that's compatible with them.

Nikon D5200 (with 18-55mm lens, Black)

The Nikon D5200 makes a great choice for family and vacation photographers.

4 stars Excellent 

Canon EOS Rebel T4i (with 18-135mm STM lens)

A fine camera, the Canon EOS Rebel T4i's more expensive 18-135mm STM kit (or body with another STM lens) is the only version that merits an unqualified recommendation. You can probably find better alternatives if you just want a sub-$1,000 dSLR for still photography.

4 stars Very good 

Canon EOS Rebel T3i (with 18-55mm IS II lens)

For the money, the Canon EOS Rebel T3i is a great choice for dSLR videographers--though the cheaper T2i can still suffice if you don't need the articulated LCD--and it's a solid choice for creative still shooters. But though the image quality and general shooting performance are top-notch, if you're upgrading to capture sports, kids, or pets, the T3i may not be able to keep up.

4 stars Very good 

Canon EOS Rebel T2i (with 18-55mm lens)

A great follow-up to the T1i, if you want the best photo and video quality in a dSLR for less than $1,000, the Canon EOS Rebel T2i is hard to beat.

4 stars Very good 

Canon EOS Rebel T1i (with 18-55mm IS lens)

A solid, slightly better-than-basic dSLR, the Canon EOS Rebel T1i delivers photo quality and performance that adequately compensates for most of its annoyances.

4 stars Very good

Nikon D5100 (with 18-55mm VR lens)

Though it doesn't rank first based on any individual aspect of the camera, the Nikon D5100 delivers a solid combination of image quality, performance, features, and design that puts it out in front if you're looking for a well-rounded option under $1,000.

4 stars Very good 

Nikon D3100 (with 18-55mm lens, Black)

A very good entry-level dSLR, the Nikon D3100 delivers excellent photo quality in a body that's streamlined for experienced photographers, but relatively unintimidating for the less advanced. Its only weakness is performance; though solid, it nevertheless lags behind the competition.

4 stars Very good 

Sony Alpha SLT-A37 (with 18-55mm lens)

A good option if you're looking for something fast with a viewfinder and tilting LCD, the Sony Alpha SLT-A37 is a solid but not outstanding sub-$800 dSLR-style camera.

4 stars Very good 

Canon Rebel XS (with 18-55mm lens, Black)

The Canon EOS Rebel XS is a good entry-level dSLR, but only its photo quality stands out among the competition.

4 stars Very good

Nikon D3200 (with 18-55mm VR lens, Black)

A solid if unexceptional entry-level dSLR, the Nikon D3200 should still please most folks looking for an upgrade from their point-and-shoots.

4 stars Very good