Best cameras under $500 in 2021

[@TDDPhoto]

At $500 I'd probably buy used. Any M43 body with a kit lens would probably be my pick or even something like the Sony A6100.

[@kamilpotato3764]

gx80, gx9, em10 series. Even more choice if you willing to go second hand. You can get em5

[@danieldougan269]

Absolutely, buy used! But I get that it's tough for Chris and Jordan to discuss used gear because the used market is hit-and-miss with inconsistent pricing, inconsistent equipment condition, etc. The a6100, even used, would probably be over budget, especially if you factor in a lens. The a6000 could work. I really like the Lumix G85 as a budget pick, and I own one myself. Almost all of my camera gear was bought used. It's a great idea even if you have a bigger budget. As for video, 4K is overhyped. Most people, especially at this entry level, would be fine with a good 1080p camera. Another advantage of a 1080p camera is that it's easier to edit the video on lower-spec computers.

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

GH4 is $697 new. I still use mine. Great all-round camera. Spend the extra $200.

[@youknowwho9247]

MFT is the single worst option for anyone who's on a budget. It's by far the most overpriced system on the market for what it delivers.

[@Alex_564]

Used at $500 a Fuji X100 could be good too.

[@glsracer]

Used is the way to go when your budget is sub-500 USD. Given supply shortages and inflation, 750 USD seems to be the new $500. I would go with a used G85 or GX85. I have a G9 and GX85 and use the later more often due to the size while not feeling like I'm losing much. That said (a nod to Chris haha), the GX85 is a bit strange to handle with a PL 10-25 or Oly 40-150 f/2.8 attached; the G9 is a better fit for those. My first (real) camera was a T2i and I used it and an a6000 for events and weddings up until 3 years ago when I went solid into the M43 camp.

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

Biden-flation. Seriously, the economy is crazy, shortages, Covid. This time next year the boys will be doing 'best camera under $1500.' Buy now before prices skyrocket.

[@youknowwho9247]

@@scottslotterbeck3796 People who think that the current inflation rate has anything to do with the current government just have no idea how economics work. What you're seeing are the effects of policies from years ago. The good economy during the early Trump years was due to the Obama government, the current crisis is due to the Trumo administration's horrendeous handling of the pandemic and their ridiculous tax and trade policies.

[@bedziebuba1]

the only thing that puts me off m4/3 is the iso above 1600 and low light focus performance...

[@glsracer]

@@bedziebuba1 Performance on newer M43 cameras like the G9, EM1-III, G90, etc are quite good up to ISO 3200 with Lightroom and up to 6400 or even 12800 with DxO PhotoLab and DeepPRIME noise reduction. I had planned to move to Lumix FF but DeepPRIME and some high end lenses changed my mind. I just shot a Christmas parade that took place at night for a political candidate that wanted promotional photos. I used a G9 with Pana-Leica 10-25 f/1.7 and the photos turned out better than what the local new agency posted from their photographer. I've been very happy with this system but as always, YMMV.

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

@@bedziebuba1 Low light performance is not a problem for me. The Arri Alexa is 800 iso and it works out just fine. Just adequately light it.

[@Ulrich.Bierwisch]

I think the Panasonic GX85 is a great camera in this price range. Together with the small 12-32 lens, it doesn't take a lot of room. It is very god for stills, it has 4k video with pretty good IBIS and there are lots of lenses available to grow the system over time. The only really missing option for video is, that it doesn't support an external mic.

[@barret8]

that's all nice and all, as long as you can get one - i've been looking for GX85 for quite a while but there's none

[@kamilpotato3764]

@@barret8 Tried second hand market?

[@Ulrich.Bierwisch]

@@barret8 In the Germany, more than 10 online-shops including Amazon have it ready to go.

[@sdrtcacgnrjrc]

Recently upgraded from a GX80 (GX85) to a GX9 with the 12 - 32 lens for 525€ (I seem to have gotten a bargain, is currently €650). Unusually it was cheaper in EU than in the US (but paired with a better lens in the US). I'm very happy with it, the main upgrades for me being 20mp Vs 16 and the tilting viewfinder (the GX80 is a great camera too -- after selling that, the GX9 cost me 275€ :-)

[@barret8]

@@kamilpotato3764 yes, I meant second hand, I don't think it's available new anymore

[@tHaH4x0r]

I'd definitely buy used. For 550$ you can get an entry level D3500, or second hand you can get a D800 which has an absolutely amazing sensor (still something like top 30 I believe), plus more important, all the pro controls.

[@barret8]

that's the beauty of this hobby, it's relatively easy to buy and sell gear, with little loss

[@jackwestcott4469]

One of the BEST deals I ever saw was the GX85 with the kit lens for $235 or so at BestBuy.

[@edjefferson9175]

The winner is GX85. Gorgeous (stabilized) 4k continuous video clips until the battery dies or card fills up whichever comes first. I scored 120 minutes on a test. Keeping it as a B cam with my S5. Also great for macro.

[@CoalitionGaming]

Definitely would go used around this price point. The cameras that stand out to me would be an EOS M200 and M50 as well as Panasonic G7 and G85.

[@nicomphoto]

A huge yes for used!! I would like to see a video for a kit under $500, under a $1000, under $2000 etc... Super video, as always, please keep the coming!

[@joesomerville6128]

Big yes to the “used” video. Keeping it at this price point would also be useful :). Great video guys and much appreciated.

[@keithholland4322]

I'll second that vote for the FZ-300 for stills and video. It's just really hard to beat at that price point. You get weather sealing, a 25-600mm equivalent zoom, mic input, fully articulating screen, excellent close focus distance, manual controls, and all sorts of other bells and whistles, all in a camera that can fit in a coat pocket! If you just want shallow depth of field, it's probably not your best option due to the small sensor, but it makes up for that in versatility. You can use it for everything from landscapes to macro to wildlife to street photography and it's just a great all round camera that you can take anywhere. My dad used to have a FZ-200 and he really liked it, but he eventually traded it for his micro four thirds setup. Speaking of micro four thirds, you could definitely get a used Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II and a prime lens or a kit zoom lens for that price. Or you could get an E-M1 for even less and get either two primes or a prime and a kit zoom. I think for most beginning photographers, the FZ-300 is going to be the most versatile and most capable camera they can buy for less than $500.

[@mmartel]

I've owned my FZ-300 for over three years and it's a fantastic, versatile daytime all-arounder for all the reasons you mentioned. I'll add that the camera handles so well - ergonomics, menus, and controls are superb. Stabilization is shockingly good for both photo and video, and the lens is shockingly good except at the very widest end [25mm equiv.], where corners are awful due to extreme software correction. The main negative of the camera is that it's 1/2.3" sensor struggles when light levels drop, dynamic range is more limited than larger sensor cameras so there's really not much room for lifting shadows or recovering highlights from RAW images, and battery life is a bit shorter than I'd hope for - especially if you're shooting a lot of video. At any rate, if you're not pixel peeping, images generally look great and it's usually hard to tell whether you're looking at something from an FZ-300 or a camera with a much larger sensor. Samples here: photos.app.goo.gl/PfkWjrKZtPQNGMcg8

[@keithholland4322]

@@mmartel The trick with those small sensor cameras is to keep the ISO low. I used to leave the ISO set on 100 or 80 or whatever the lowest setting was all the time, but I've learned that with some of the newer ones, you can maybe go as high as 400 without too much noise. Actually if you have DXO Photolab or Topaz Denoise AI, you can probably go way beyond that and clean the images up in post if you shoot raw, and you could also use a tripod or monopod in low light in many situations and just leave the shutter open longer. It isn't a perfect camera, but I can't think of anything that I could have more fun with that costs less than $500 new.

[@iamthemoviemaker777]

As far as used gear goes, I think it would be cool to do an entire beginner studio set up for $1000. Not just camera and lens, but an entire studio set up for people wanting to get fully started. Including stuff like lights, backdrops, accessories, audio for video etc.

[@markpollon3138]

I found a Fujifilm XH1 with 2 extra batteries and battery grip used in like-new condition for $1000CAD and couldn’t be happier with the purchase. Lots of great deals on used Nikon D3 and D4 out there. A used gear episode is a great idea!

[@CallMeChato]

We got the FZ 300 and thoroughly enjoying it as an all round travel camera.

[@cougmantx]

The Lumix GX85 almost fit the bill.

[@wwz3320]

picked this little beast as well, the feature set it gives costs 2x more in apsc and 4x more in FF and is the difference that obvious in terms of images? Not sure, not sure :D

[@truthseeker6804]

good video. im glad it was made. many people would prefer used but most people beginners are scared of used and just want new. and these videos are mainly targeted to them.

[@johnchavez8386]

man I loved my Panasonic lx10, one of my biggest regrets is selling it so I could get the lx100. it was easy to travel with, had shallow dof for pleasing background blur, the flip up screen for selfies was great for trips with family and friends.

[@tankerbruja]

I loved the lx100, be careful taking that one in places with a lot of stuff in the air like the beach, the seals are terrible on it. one beach trip and I got sand in the glass elements, and I always had the Lumix lens cap covering it when not shooting.

[@rolloffilm1996]

Very coool camera

[@vznquest]

i got a sony A6000 + 16-50 for $499 in December 2017. it's crazy that same kit costs more now.

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

Biden-flation

[@cameraz99]

Nowadays, I think too much emphasis is put on the gear instead of the photographer. If you know how to use the equipment you have, you can get some beautiful pictures. I have gotten some incredibly detailed shots with my Panasonic GM5 with its 12-32mm kit lens, and my Panasonic GX85 with the 15mm Leica lens. Sometimes they give my full-frame cameras a run for their money. Reminds me when I was a kid, and my enthusiast-photographer father had two twin-lens Mamiyaflexes. Once, he spent a week in Washington, D.C., on business, and brought with him an antique folding camera with a bellows. He came home with the most beautiful pictures, including some spectacular nighttime shots.

[@thirdmort]

Because of the limited options at this price, I almost always suggest going used or wait for a sale. I'd definitely be interested to see a used $500 challenge. My go to recommendation is a Sony a6000 kit. It's a hard camera to beat even if the kit lens is a bit meh.

[@tankerbruja]

Lumix G7, Olympus EM10 I've even seen the XT(x)00 cameras go on sale for under 500 USD. my last recommendation for beginners is Sony. bc of the complicated controls and high price if they want to expand their lens options.

[@thirdmort]

@@tankerbruja I disagree with the lens option. Because of Tamron, Samyang, Sigma and others, there are tons of good inexpensive lenses. Heck, if you're a student, Sony typically has a really good EDU program to make things that much cheaper. I also think the controls are overblown. I've owned cameras from Nikon, Canon, Fuji, and Sony and feel like you have to learn where everything is on all of them. Each has a learning curve.

[@barret8]

agree, I've been using a6000 for quite a while now, and it's amazing what can be achieved at this price point, especially with decent lens like sigma 1.4 series

[@glsracer]

I would agree with the a6000 idea except that I have an a6000 and almost always choose my GX85 or G9 when I leave the house. I used the a6000 as a b camera a few months ago and the layer of dust I cleaned off was a bit crazy. I might use it more if I had that new Tamron f/2.8 zoom but that lens alone is more than the budget in this video. The a6000s focus system is really poor compared to later Sony mirrorless models, being less reliable in most situations than DFD on the GX85 and no where close to the G9's C-AF system which grabs and holds on to the eye very well with most lenses.

[@tankerbruja]

@@thirdmort I've used literally every system and Sony has the second worst menus. like, stuff in places where it shouldn't be, every time I've had to Google where something is, which is something I've never had to do on Lumix or Fuji. the only system that has worse menus that make even less logical sense and I have to Google for even some basic functions is Olympus.

[@CSAFilm]

Lumix GX80/85

[@scott2100]

the Panasonic G7 usually is $500, but it is going for basically $600 now

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

Biden-flation. It is going to get much worse.

[@paulanderson24]

GX80 can still be bought for 449GBP here in the uk with some limited stock. Fantastic versatile little camera as others have said

[@Janihonkalaxxx]

If i choose camera under 500, i want canon 6d! Awesome lowlight performance!😍!

[@kaushaltiwari9773]

The Panasonic G100 is regularly on sale for just less than 500. The legend of a camera Sony A6000 with the kit lens is available on John Lewis in UK for less than 500.

[@jorgenudvang3507]

For $500, you can get a nice, used Nikon D700 with a 50mm lens. It will outlast any camera that costs $500 new, and the image quality is still great. If video is needed, there's always the Panasonic GH4.

[@Vinterloft]

Fujifilm X-T20 is also available for $400 for even better video than the GH4, and you can add a recorder for 10-bit FLOG later. Then there's the X-T1 at an incredible $150 without vertical grip, which is even better bang for the buck than the D700 (unless battery life is important)

[@karlsma7245]

I'm a semi professional videographer. My path was Phone GoPro Hero 7 - I still love the camera Mavic Mini (The original one) Panasonic G95 Panasonic S5. The two Panasonics were a definite outcome of watching this channel.

[@tankerbruja]

Sony marketing is strong, but it's complicated controls/menus for newcomers to learn, who are going to be the main people at this budget, and it's expensive glass if those people do want to expand their options. (edit: also if said person's main goal is to get something like a streaming webcam that is actually a nice camera, and maybe use it for photos/video on the side, the basic Sony apsc models have terrible io, and you have to push way beyond this budget if you want a proper video setup while you stream, or you have to worry about battery life and whatnot, much better to go with a used Fuji X-T2 or something at this point as you can simply power it through USB while it shows you recording and it will be a much better choice for learning photos on the side outside of that) Even a basic Canon like Chris said would be better(as much as I dislike Canon personally it is much more beginner friendly than a Sony, and many more lens options if someone wants), or a basic Lumix(like Jordan suggested, these are the most beginner friendly menus/controls imo). Fuji sits somewhere in the middle if you can find them on sale. Not the cheapest, but not as expensive as Sony. friendlier menus but not as friendly as Lumix. Olympus you can find cheap for photography(not great for video) but the menus are more complicated than Sony. But even as far back as the EP cameras will produce great images and help you decide if it's something you want to stick with or not. And if you are serious about learning photography, I highly recommend going to an actual camera shop, asking what you can get in your budget that will give you a prime lens equivalent focal length to 50mm on full frame. and only shoot that lens for at least one-three months. until you can identify without asking, what it is about your photos you like, and what you want to improve. then you can ask others, how to improve those aspects. TL;DR: don't fall for Sony marketing hype, they are good but not right for everyone. And ask many sources if you are new to photography. Post Script: I keep agreeing with Chris and Jordan. I swear it's not even on purpose. :D

[@justpray365]

I appreciate you trying to keep the budget down, but let’s be realistic in the year of inflation. Getting a good “new” camera and lens for under $600 is not going to happen. It’s hard to find a camera and lens and lighting under $,1,000. People will just get frustrated and not enjoy photography. My best purchase was lighting. That made the biggest impact on my photography from portraits, to real estate, to just flowers. I learned to do light painting too, and it’s so much fun. Flowers look fantastic using this method. Do a video on lighting too. As always I enjoy all of your video’s. You guys can make what might otherwise be a boring video fun to watch.

[@nutthaworncharoensuk1483]

I got a used Fujifilm X-T2+18-55 for 600$, and I think that's the best budget used option.

[@DMueller93]

Yeah, used definitely seems like the way to go in this price range. I got a barely used X-T20 (I think the shutter count was at 150 or so) with the 18-55 for 500€ earlier this year. Just takes some looking around to find good deals.

[@Vinterloft]

Except X-T1s typically go for $150 and the X-T2 doesn't really gain any IQ despite the technical 8MP difference. Omar Gonzalez has a video comparing X-trans sensors, the X-trans 2 sensor (X-T1, X100T, X-T10) is indistinguishable from the X-T2's sensor in most ways, except the X-T1's noise when cranked looks better/ more filmic. If you do need video though, the X-T2 makes more sense. An X-T20 is still better bang for the buck.

[@nutthaworncharoensuk1483]

@@Vinterloft the cheapest X-T1 I can find in my area was around 300$. So, it's better for me to spend a little extra to get more megapixels since I do crop picture a lot and I use camera for video too. It's way better to have full size 3.5 mic jack and audio that's why X-T20 was not my choice though. X-T2 was the perfect options for me.

[@LE672AJ]

Those all-in-one bridge cameras like the Panasonic that Jordan chose don’t get enough love these days. While they’re not sexy trendy, they’re pretty handy and many of them (including this one) are really quite capable.

[@alistairstrachan8508]

When I first saw the thumbnail for this video I thought Chris was rocking a tank top. I think that is a look him and Jordan definitely should go for when things stop snowing in Canada. Looking forward to it in 2022 guys!

[@MarcioK]

Little over budget, but you can find the GX85 kitted with 2 good lenses - the 12-32 and the 45-150 - for U$ 598.

[@ReclusiveEagle]

The best camera under $500 are Pro DSLR's from 2018. Buy second hand gear. Never by new if you are on a budget. Ever. Why scrape a D3600 when you can get a 5D MK III or RP second hand ???

[@MehdiRF]

You sure about this price for second hand 5DIII or RP?

[@Krekkertje]

If you’re going to do a used camera episode, I’d love to see a somewhat higher budget. Something like 2000 usd. Most people who have that kind of budget tend to go with new. I’m curious what it would get you used. In fact , I’d love an episode what a fixed budget can get you new vs used.

[@dracphelan]

I have the FZ300. I've found it great for when I'm walking around and want to keep my kit light and nimble.

[@dudemanismadcool]

I think Jordan might be raving about the camera soon. In well lit outdoor environments, the 4k video is very good.

[@BramowitchIII]

There is a lot of depreciation on camera bodies, like a lot. And its not like the camera's changed that much, so you could look into like a canon 2 or 3 generations down and have a great deal.

[@edsphotos78]

Yes please used gear at two price points 500 and 1000?

[@chrissnake559]

An used original Bmpcc is the best choice for video under $500. And you have enough money to buy a decent M43 lens.

[@matthieuzglurg6015]

for 500$, buying used would be the best option imho. My pick would be something like a Fuji X-T1 or X-E2 for ~250/300 and a 18-55 f/2.8-4 for about 200/220

[@Wreckedandruinedand]

Its super difficult to find X-T1 + 18-55 for less than $500. I think the X-E2 + 18-55 is more realistic for $500 (more or less), you can get an X-T1 but with a cheper kit with that money, the 15-45, or you can go the manual lens route just like i did and save some bucks for accesories like tripod, strap etc

[@hauke3644]

In that price range I‘d always recommend to buy second hand. Just saw an Olympus E-M1 for just 300€… Still an almost professional tool that can do anything apart from 4K video.

[@kamilpotato3764]

you can get em5 mk3 for not much more :)

[@danieldougan269]

I owned an E-M1 until I upgraded to an E-M1 II. The main reason I upgraded was for video. The problem with the E-M1 for video is not only that it doesn't shoot 4K; it's that it doesn't even do 1080p well. It's usable if you're only doing home video, but if you're even a little interested in filmmaking, get something else. The other problem with the E-M1 for beginners is that the menu system is intimidating. It's not easy to use.

[@hauke3644]

True, the E-M1 is not ideal for serios video. Overall, it has gotten many improvements with FW 4.x

[@hauke3644]

@@danieldougan269 Btw, I too switched to a pair of E-M1 II mainly because of it's better video quality, but kept the old E-M1, just because it would have been a shame to sell such a good camera for almost no money…

[@DanPandrea]

If I had just $500 for my first camera, I’d choose something used. It would be nice to see what you guys would pick in this price range.

[@PascalTristanRedney]

Lovely episode with some surprising outcomes! A second-hand episode would certainly be fun. Panasonic G7, G85 and G9 are amazing cameras at second-hand prices, as well as Olympus EM1-II.

[@aryadwitama]

Still looking for Lumix GX-85 to take the advantage of 2x crop sensor + ibis

[@rwheeler4919]

I would love to see a video on how and where to buy used gear. I'm always wary of buying used on line because I can't test the gear and I'm afraid of getting ripped off. Your knowledge and expert in that dept might help me change my view or not depending on your take.

[@amermeleitor]

Just buy used gear. -I got a Sony Nex3 with the 18-55 kit lens and the 16mm 2.8 pancake for 120usd -I traded my Canon G1X II plus 80usd for a Sony Nex 5r with the 16-50 kit lens and the Yongnuo 50mm 1.8 and accessories -I bought a used Canon M100 with kit lens with some minimal marks for 185usd. -Other Canon M100 like new with kit lens for 210usd, with Lowepro bag, and other things. The cameras all have something more included, like SD cards, tripod, shoulder bag, the original box and papers, etc. Now I will sell the Nex3 and one Canon The final result will be a very cheap, small cameras, and ready to battle in hiking, street and beach vacation. I will decide for one brand / system if necessary. The manual vintage lenses are CHEAP and work with adapters for Sony E and Canon M line. There are cheap Yongnuo lenses with autofocus for Sony mount. There are cheap Canon EF lenses for the M system that work perfectly with Canon adapter (cheap second hand adapter too). I hope I gave some ideas to get a beater camera for hostile environment and people with very little money like me.

[@seifsalman]

i have the m200 , and its serving me very well , i went for the canon 32mm f1.4 , couple of batteries , and a third party hand grip , and now its rocking my trips and casuals , am happy

[@ryanthomas9306]

This is why I sold all my camera gear except my xs10 35mm f2. 10-24 and 18-55 kit. I also have the 18-135 worn lens in case I go hiking

[@txaggie99]

The X-S10 really can do everything well and it's really all you need. I had one and enjoyed it, but decided to keep my X-T3 for the bigger viewfinder and ergonomics that I preferred more. Still think about just getting an X-S10 and calling it good.

[@Dumontjon]

@@txaggie99 it needs weather sealing to be perfect for me. I live in a damp and rainy place.

[@powerlink2000]

Used gear recommendation video would be awesome! I’d suggest 2 price points:$500 and $1000. I’d also suggest researching on places everyone could order from regardless of location (MPB, KEH, usedphotopro, Robertscamera).

[@Ranger7Studios]

You can get a Panasonic g7 or GH4 for under $500 used. Probably the best option right now.

[@kamilpotato3764]

you can get em5 mk2 under 500

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

100%

[@FarhangTahmasebi]

Just a thought. Your jokes are so good that you should really put them together in one or more videos. It‘ll be an instant hit. My wife and I, for two, prefer your starting jokes, to all the Christmas movies and shows we can watch on BBC iPlayer or elsewhere. And today we just loved the wrist strap joke about what changed your photography at most. Merry Christmas and well done.

[@geraldillo]

For $500 I would definitely go for a used camera.

[@og_sane]

I know it's not 2021 anymore, but hearing Chris's choice is the Rebel T7/2000D, it makes me a little bit happy. Cause I just got the same camera earlier this summer with a really good deal.

[@extremelydave]

$500 is a pretty rough price range to find something interesting to anyone but a newbie IMHO..... so I would go with Jordan's choice. Fun zoom and still a usable image.

[@MrTysonborg]

You should do a follow up, so if people go with your options as a beginner and then would like to upgrade from that equipment, what would you guys get as a viable upgrade, price could be anything between 750-1000, used or new gear.

[@cameronsmith169]

Do this price again but with used kit I think it would open up a lot more options and be more realistic of what someone should be doing at this price.

[@szabiyt]

I use Panasonic LX15. I plan to move forward MILC APS-C with kit lens but the price difference so extreme, so my camera still LX15.

[@pcproffy]

Used market: Oly EM 10.3 with 14-42 EZ lens and 40-150 f4. Grand total $450! You get IBIS, 4k video, Live Composite. Insane value.

[@TITAOSTEIN]

The GX85 + 12-32mm would be my choice! Or, the Oly em10 III + 14-42mm.

[@LW-qb2bx]

A used episode is a great idea

[@cikenot90]

if you found a used panasonic fz300 in good condition, it really is worth the price. I got one at below 300USD and it has been my backup camera for bird photography. The video is better than average, the autofocus is surprisingly fast and accurate (thanks for the dfd technology), the continuous autofocus does not hunt, and the photo is good enough for social media. Added with other perks such as the massive zoom range with constant aperture, built-in time lapse, user friendly touch screen, it really is a bargain for its price. Given a budget of 500USD, I'll choose this camera over other P&S, bridge and interchangeable lens camera.

[@melodymatters]

I would like to see something that starts off with one or two phones that have very good cameras (like, say, an iPhone and a Pixel) and then see what would be the cheapest dedicated camera setup, new or used, that would produce noticeably better pictures and/or video than them, and in what circumstances.

[@chiraz111]

Fantastic work as usual guys. I love your videos! As for the future, I'd love to see an episode on adapting lenses...using the different mount converters, picking a good used lens to adapt, etc. For example, I've found that used Pentax medium format lenses are great bargains when adapted for the GFX system. Tell me more about that!

[@joeaddison]

I've been helping some folks out finding cameras for the holidays, the real problem is it feels like 90% of these budget cameras are currently out of stock. Note: I wrote this comment before I finished the video, so it seems I am not alone in this matter

[@willhouse]

Never underestimate the versatility of those Lumix FZ cameras. Their lenses have such an extraordinary range that I miss my old FZ50 almost every time I go out for an all-day shoot. That lil' beast from back in 2005 kept my photos & videos looking pretty good for a whole decade before I made the jump into an interchangeable-lens body... & when I did do the switch, I stuck with Panasonic due to their front/rear control dial system & their super-intuitive UI. Now I can barely wait to find out what they can do with the latest MFT sensors!

[@mattdebyl8806]

Surprised Jordan didn’t look at the Osmo pocket 2 after looking at the go pro. Not as silly wide and offers a lot that smartphones don’t do for video use. Option to add filters and wireless lapel etc too. Has zoom (via crop). Integrates nicely with a smartphone.

[@dkDyno]

A used cameras under 1000$ would be interesting because I assume you can get some choice cameras for that price in the used market.

[@2MinuteReview]

How about an episode of what you would buy if it were 2012? (10 years ago)

[@JjackVideo]

Look at a used GX85 or GX9 from Panasonic. Great little cameras for both video and photos

[@vic_the_roman]

FZ 300. That power zoom though 😃 Now I interested. Might be what I have been looking for. Cool little run n gun set up.

[@MishtahPoog]

Yes, please do a used-camera version of this. Practically, I think most people buying a camera for themselves at this price point would look at used options. Even when buying a camera for someone else as a gift, as long as the used camera is in good condition, it'd be a great option.

[@-_--le3zk]

I just bought nikon d5200 with kit lens for 300 dollars,i think under 500 usd new camera simply isnt possible,the t7 doesnt have much features and it lacks dynamic range,where as fz 300 is a bridge camera with a small sensor

[@bobceffo]

yes to second hand episode! and happy Christmas :)

[@KD-lb9bg]

I wish that you guys had made this a $600 or less video and I'd also like to see a $1000 or $1200 and less video. As always though, the videos are appreciated and enjoyed. I hope you guys and your families had a Merry Christmas 🎄 and will have a Happy New year 🎉, thanks.

[@noenken]

Two rules: On a budget like that you don't buy new! Anything with a mirror inside is disqualified.

[@SuperSuperka]

second is super-stupid

[@Vinterloft]

@@SuperSuperka Not when you can get an X-T1 for $150. Much better than the mirrored "budget king", the $300 D700.

[@timetodestination9538]

I know you guys barely filming during bad weather. But would really appreciate if you guy can do a episode of tips of filming/taking photo during bad weather. Thank you.

[@lsaideOK]

Used is definitely the way to go even at higher price points. I just told someone looking for an inexpensive in to dedicated camera photography that he could get the D90/Tamron 70-300 vc combo, which I own and used extensively in the past, for $400. Still takes great images with a wide variety of subjects.

[@JavierArellano]

Yeah, I also would love to watch a "best used cameras under $500" I got a used 5D Mark III for

[@aromalps1368]

I got a m200 for 400 dollars on a special sale love the image quality

[@ahojahojish]

I got a used lumix gx80 for 200 bucks + a 20mm f1.7 prime for about a 100 usd (I also own the 25mm, 42,5mm and 12-35mm f2.8) Its capable of taking high quality photos and has incredible 4K video in that price range, sure no mic input, but you can work around that. For video its a great B cam. And it has a stabilized sensor.I dont think you can beat that.

[@steveschnetzler5471]

My old lumix ZS70 died recently (after years of abuse), and after much searching and comparisons, I just bought a new identical one. Most the newer ones have less zoom range, cost much more money, or where too small to fit in my hand. I still love the one handed operability of this one camera. It is still my walking/biking around day to day camera.

[@MrJerkfaceKevin]

I have a GH4 and G7, then got the zs70 for an EDC cam but couldnt stand the IQ at full telephoto. M43 prob spoiled me

[@pawpaw324]

At that price point, I would get a used Panasonic G7 with the 14-42mm kit lens for video. It has a good amount of control and features.

[@Vinterloft]

Can get X-T20 for $400 for even better video. Though you'd have to settle for a manual lens, but honestly that's best for video anyway

[@3Dogs1CatandMore]

Please do a $500 Used episode! There are so many good choices for $500 used.

[@BrendanEvan]

Used market is the way to go. I got a lightly used Fuji XS10 and lens for $1,000, then sold the lens for $450 so the body was only $550 out of pocket

[@vasiliychernomorov1115]

Chris and Jordan it's awesome to watch your show. Thanks you a lot. You're doing great. Continue, please

[@susanclark5532]

I got the panasonic FZ300 lumix for my son for christmas and sent it back. the software that comes with it has a disclosure that it expires as of 5/31/2021. so the minute you open it, something is expired already. This camera was released in 2015, so it is old. Do any of these cameras have any internal storage?

[@jensarne5773]

Usel gear to as low as 150$ would be great. Just got a Lumix TZ 90 for that price here in Sweden. Just love it!

[@DamianBrown]

GX80 / 85 is insane value used.

[@chippy511]

Have a great Christmas you guys thanks for all the vids and the laughs too you are both crazy but so good to watch your reviews. I have still got my original Sony RX10 I think its a great all round camera. I ,ove it so much I would never part with it.

[@tomperry9034]

I want you two to really go for rock solid second hand budget. Under 200 Canadian, ideally set up with a prime of any sort (even adapted). Don't let me down!

[@tomperry9034]

Actually, just looked at the Canadian dollar... maybe 200 USD to give you a chance!

[@adriancrespo4274]

I think 750 usd is a pretty great budget for used, and there are a lot of really interesting options, like the XT2 or a GH4 (and there are a ton of awesome old camcorders/cinema cameras)

[@scottslotterbeck3796]

GH4 is dirt cheap. Buy used or save up another few bucks.

[@g85stories30]

Absolutely do a used camera WWYB episode!

[@highlycreativedigital5472]

gh4 for video. 5d mark ii still for photography

[@kennygo8300]

I bought a FZ300 just for videos. The ability to zoom while shooting and, with the small sensor, the huge depth of field, make shooting sports or any action in general, easy. It's pretty fun to take pictures with, too. It has more features than just about any other camera I've seen. Things like post focus... yes, that's deciding your focus point AFTER taking the shot. It's really a photographer's toy! The image quality is not bad. If you don't have a lot of money to spend, it's a great deal. I own 6 other cameras, including "better" Panasonic cameras and 3 Nikon cameras (Z5 is the newest). I'm keeping the FZ300. If you want to shoot a video, just grab it and shoot. No lens changing, no problems.

[@patrickfitzgerald2861]

Just this week I picked up a used Canon EOS M200 Content Creator Kit on eBay for US $365. Sure, it has faults, but it's so damned cute! I think this program idea would be much more useful if you went with used. I already see lots of good ideas in the comments section, so go for it you two! 😎

[@Jarz_007]

I would love a used guide. I have a really tight budget around 500 and have been looking at used cameras but because they're all older cameras I'm not sure which ones still hold up

[@danieldougan269]

At this price point, I think it's perfectly reasonable to stick to 1080p video. I'd much rather have a bigger sensor than 4K video. 1080p video is also a lot easier on your computer and your storage, which might also be scarce on such a tiny budget. The big strike against the T7 for me is the (lack of) audio. Can you possibly get a T4i or SL2 instead? At least those have mic jacks. Another interesting option might be the original Sony RX10. But I know they want to talk about new gear where the pricing is more consistent.

[@Santamike212]

I have the FZ 300. Love it

[@robertsaca3512]

The best advice is to buy used, but that isn't what DPR want you to do. I just collected a Sony 7R2 for $500 exactly after some haggling and it's fantastic for the money.

[@stephensmith1509]

For $500 bucks, as a hobbiest, I'd probably go with film! You can get an old Minolta and lens for like $20 and then you dump the rest into film and processing.

[@vaidehiarts]

Used camera section, you can go nuts. I'd love to challenge Jordan to shoot with a GX85 (aka GX80) with a 14-42 kit lens, a 25 1.7 prime and a Zoom H1 for audio. Cam available @ 300-320 USD with kit lens, The Panny 25 1.7 at 80-100 USD and 80 USD for H1 (with a 10 USD Boya Mic)..