Top 3 Best Places to Buy Used Camera Gear in 2022

[@snappiness]

I'm hearing reports of maybe some inspection issues with MPB. Looks like everyone can return easily and get their money back, so that's good, but still a pain if you have to go through it. Something to keep in mind. My experiences have been good so far 👍 Also I promise I am getting a new microphone next. 2 years into this now, probably about time to move on from my $20 knock-off shotgun mic ;)

[@EstelonAgarwaen]

It honestly sounds good. If it werent for hissy preamps on my em1ii id get one too!

[@snappiness]

@@EstelonAgarwaen maybe that's my problem? The audio sounds okay to me I just clip it so often, no matter how much I turn down the gain. I know so little about this haha. I'm recording directly into my Pentax k-1. I am thinking of recording audio separately next and syncing in post and seeing if that helps.

[@EstelonAgarwaen]

@@snappiness if you have a microphone for you pc, like usb mic or sth, use that. I did in the one video on my channel. Another thing: check if the k1 has in camera audio settings, reduce the gain there if you can. Also, didnt you have a lumix camera you got for video?

[@snappiness]

@@EstelonAgarwaen yes, I reduced the gain from the camera side. I did buy a Lumix and it was great but then I sold it to buy the K3iii 😆 but I would get one again. For around $300 it was such a great camera. Good idea about just using a USB mic. The nice ones of those are much cheapernb

[@EstelonAgarwaen]

@@snappiness even the like 40$ usb mics are fine! Instead of spending like 150 bucks on a usb mic you should then go for an xlr mic audio Interface setup. (Not that the quality would be noticeably better 😅)

[@nedkelly2035]

One thing about MPB and the 7 day return policy: I used to work in a camera store, and I can fully understand it. We started with a 2 week return policy, but basically got people using it as a free rental service. Mostly people buying gear, using it for vacation, then returning it. But also some pros buying and returning equipment they only needed for a specific application on one shoot. We finally cut ours back to 5 days which eliminated all of the vacationers. With the pros who were not as bad on this, we just had to tell some that there would be a restocking fee in the future if they kept doing it.

[@kevincompston3840]

Big fan of UsedPhotoPro. Like the fact they show shutter count and pic of actual item.

[@malstanding]

I use MPB as I'm in the UK. They have a place in my home city on the south coast and I love the fact that if I underestimate some gear when I am part exchanging, they will give me an honest appraisal and up the estimate accordingly. I just wish they had a shop front as I could get to their place within minutes and not have to wait for delivery.

[@snappiness]

That's great service! Glad to hear

[@The_golden_charlie]

Harrison cameras in the UK are very, very good too.

[@mrbob4u495]

My experience with KEH is the items I have purchased were always in better condition than their descriptions would lead me to believe.

[@5675492]

Just ordered and received a Canon 50D from MPB and my experience with them was much better than expected . My orders were shipped within 24hrs of making them and they even sent Fedex to my door to pick up a return free of charge . The return was a mistake in ordering that I made and they had no problems with that and Fedex was there the next day to get it . Customer service was prompt and my Canon 50D arrived in near mint condition despite being advertised as only "good " - I might have lucked out here ! Anyhow two thumbs up for the MPB experience so far .

[@bren.nan_]

I just got a 50D from MPB as well!! How do you like yours? Mine came in WAY better condition than listed! I was so surprised

[@5675492]

@@bren.nan_ Same here ! - used equipment conditions are kind of a lottery but I've been more than happy with most of the stuff I've gotten from MPB . As far as the 50D goes I love its weight and construction , the firm sound of the shutter even.. And I really like the custom modes - I changed the default jpg setting to something a little more punchy and contrasty and I added two custom B&W to the C1 and C2 - one sharp and contrasty and one more soft .

[@adude394]

I've done a fair amount of business with KEH, MPB, and UPP. While I've never had any particular problems with any of them, my preference is to use UPP. I find that 1) they're incredibly responsive; the gentleman there who I've been working with usually responds to emails within minutes; and 2) the prices they've offered me for various pieces of gear have been slightly better than what KEH and MPB quoted. In fact, I've been so appreciative of UPP that I've taken to buying my new gear from Roberts Photo rather than from B&H, even though I have a long history with the latter. For example, just this past week I sold my Canon 100-400mm EF lens to UPP and in a very short amount of time was given a store credit gift card for the purchase price (which was actually higher than the quote as they included the sales tax amount based on my home state). I then logged into Roberts and used that card to take a substantial chunk out of the price of a new Canon 100-500 RF, which was delivered to me within 48 hours, even though I didn't request expedited shipping. Very satisfactory transactions, for sure.

[@nathanmeyer6743]

I can't recommend MPB - bought a camera in 'like new' condition and it had obvious wear and their customer service was very slow to respond. KEH, 100% recommend as the condition of their gear has always exceeded expectations and customer service was excellent 👍.

[@snappiness]

Thanks for the feedback. A few other people have mentioned so-so experiences with MPB, so I pinned a comment on the video for others to see. They've been fine for me so far, but good to keep in mind!

[@ryszardtarnowski8213]

@@snappiness, initially I was very glad to see MPB nearby Poland, hence easily available. However, I'll think twice before pulling the trigger. Anyway, thanks a lot for mentioning that seller.

[@AFKOperator]

EU or US as i've noticed most negative reviews were from US region so far

[@alexblaze8878]

Interesting that you say the item you purchased at MPB wasn’t as described on their site considering the images are of the ACTUAL item and they give the shutter count of the cameras they’re selling. KEH absolutely refuses to give the shutter count of their cameras; I even asked them directly over the phone if they could please check the shutter count of a Nikon D5 they were selling and they refused. I live about 20 miles from the KEH store near Atlanta and I asked them if I could personally check the shutter count of one of their cameras in-store and they denied me that request also. The very notion of selling a several thousand dollar camera without giving the shutter count is like refusing to give the mileage of a used car you’re selling-that would be absurd and you’d justifiably refuse to purchase said car. Their images are also NOT of the actual item. I’m not sure whether you’re a paid advertiser for KEH or not but your comment doesn’t make sense.

[@sajeethahamedsaabir]

@@alexblaze8878 I agree they do not say anything about the shutter count

[@whot1202]

Thanks!

[@snappiness]

Thank you! :)

[@dominicwroblewski5832]

UPP ROCKS ! Ok I'm retired and have nothing better to do than photography. I order at least once a week from UPP and check the web site about 10 + times a day because they have clients like me who will pounce on a great deal instantly. They start updating the web site around 9AM Eastern until 5PM. To make sure that during the day the site is fresh it is best to hit the refresh button on your browser every time you go to check and verify by looking at the number of items in stock. I have been tempted to try MPB. Your review makes me more likely to. Thanks for the video.

[@joespag26]

Ive sold and bought gear from MPB over the years and they always gave the fairest Quotes and selling prices ! They gave more than the original quotes a couple of times !

[@rayspencer5025]

I have bought a lot of stuff from KEH over the last 20 years. They have made it possible to get lenses I never thought I would own because of price or availability ( like my "Sigmonster" 300-800mm). I only once had an issue when a lens came that I was not happy with (a 150-500mm eoth dust inside). I sent it back and they made it right immediately. I got the lens back in a couple weeks, clean as a whistle.

[@TheJ_G]

UsedPhotoPro’s trade-in prices were VERY VERY low in the few instances I’ve gotten quotes from them. KEH had decent to good trade-in prices and they also have decent to good sell prices. But MPB has consistently given the most trade-in value by far, and they usually have the best used prices. Their customer service is terrible though, but ultimately no problems outside of delayed shipping and responses to issues/inquires.

[@bettahalfofme6658]

I've bought 2 Canon lenses from MPB, they were excellent condition. I bought a EOS film camera, except for it's over 30 years old it works and looks like new. I'll use them both again.

[@AdrianW.Photography]

I had not heard of UsedPhotoPro. Will certainly look at their offerings. As for MPB, while a good site I have seen numerous complaints from USA customers about long shipping times, 20-25 days. The European division on the other hand, ships within a few days. Nice to find your video and a comparison of someone who actually uses the sites.

[@starrrvega4815]

Very nice video man!👏👏👏

[@stuartcarden1371]

I can't speak for the U.S. but in the UK MPB are fantastic! I can't recommend them highly enough; both for buying and selling...Top class!

[@snappiness]

Good to know everyone's experiences!

[@PaulWilkinson]

I like MPB. We have them in the UK and I've found them to be, by far, the best priced. So much so, I've hardly bought from eBay in the last year, all my camera and lens purchases have been from MPB or Ffordes in Inverness. Shipping is always quick in the UK too, I've never waited more than 2 days. I've no complaints about them at all and often recommend both companies.

[@marvintpandroid2213]

I have used both Ffordes and MPB and both are great companies with good ranges and fast delivery, cant comment to much about customer services from either because you can only find out about that when things go wrong, and they haven't.

[@chuckmoser9662]

I have sold to and bought from all three. No problems what so ever. Used Photo Pro also has a new gear division and I have sold gear to them in order to buy new.

[@jondonahue7163]

I’ve used KEH over the years... for Pentax lenses. 100% recommendation. Many times, surprised that the lens quality was a little higher than advertised. Also sold some stuff through KEH ... again, no problem at all. Good company!

[@photomaker4502]

I stopped shopping at KEH. It's as though they stopped "quality check." The last item I bought from them (Canon PowerShot S90) there were noticeable dusts, about 30% percent covering the sensor. I've bought crappy lenses from them too. They're crappy because they didn't focus at all or focused at a certain focal length then go dark. I enjoy buying from MPB. I haven't tried UsedPhotoPro.

[@cpane420]

UPP always lists Shutter counts were other used camera vendors do not , love the prices and support

[@braddahjerry]

Bought my first used lens from KEH - a canon 24-105mm L lens. And priced way lower from what I’ve seen on other online stores (other than the two you mentioned) even though the zoom was loose - which I expect from a MK I lens was better than I assumed. Definitely gonna checkout the other shops

[@snappiness]

Great! Thats a workhorse of a lens too from what I hear. Yeah, I recommend checking them out. Less selection, but great prices and sometimes have things KEH doesn't. Good to check all three if you're looking for something uncommon.

[@thorgrimb2416]

Used MPB here in the UK so yes they dk have a UK branch and yes you pay for postage so often worth if buying small cost items to buy quite a few to offset the postage. UK has a 6 month warranty prices are quite good not always the best but I wpuld say they are overall competative. Return in my exeprience has been superb, I have only used it once for a faulty item when I bought two SDHC Ii cards one worked perfectly other was dead on arrival. Contacted them they arranged pickup and even put another card on one side for me which upon return of the first they sent out with free postage. Only other time I bought a NokinJ1 body it was in excellent chondition but though listed with a charger non was included, they included a strap messaged them they said keep the strap and sent a charger out and postgae again free and vetpry quick. Things with the best intentions can and will go wrong, it is how they deal with them taht counts and MPB where superb with the only two issues I have had. Will also add MPB UK use images of actual item those I have looked at had at least 3 but almost all had four images. And items are graded as well.

[@sierrascale]

Love MPB and have done two trades in the last 60 days, great communication, best prices on my trades and best prices on their stock. But as you said, shipping is very slow. After waiting several days for Fedex tracking, I emailed them and they blamed it on a "backlog" of orders to be shipped; another two days and they finally packed it and gave it to Fedex. Much better prices for my trade-ins than KEH, and WAY better Adorama, which was the worst, and I'll never use again.

[@ActualCounterfactual]

I have both sold and bought at MPB, in Europe + UK, I had a problem once with one DSLR they sold me, but it was swapped easily and instantly without questions. I can not think of anything negative to say about them, I will probably keep buying there whenever I buy second-hand in the future as well.

[@RSWebery]

EDIT: It's here! Everything was better than I expected, considering my previous experiences. My E-M1 was in "Excellent" condition, with the Grip and 25mm f/1.7 both in "Good" condition. I am extremely pleased by what I received, to be quite honest. When they said it included the "Original Packaging", they meant everything. The box, outer sleeve, FL-LM2 flash, all rubber caps, strap ring triangles, the little plastic bits, the charger, cable, AV cable, original strap still new in box, and even the manual were all in there! Everything was packaged excellently as always, and made it safe and sound into my hands. Dirt was limited to a little on the grips and surfaces of the camera, with the sensor and EVF being completely clean. Everything worked perfectly upon arrival and only needed a light cleaning to pretty up. For a total cost of $18 and a value of $431, this was exactly what I wanted. I'm simply enjoying using the system now, and can't wait to get out and shoot! All I'm missing are two OEM batteries, which will stack on another $120 to my purchase, unfortunately. This specific system included 3rd party battery that lasted less than 100 shots, so I'll be replacing it ASAP. Overall, the experience was awesome! I'm definitely recommending them, though I'd make sure to take a close look at each individual listing's pictures to really gauge how they've been used. Pros: -Equipment arrived as described -Great prices -Great customer service -Free shipping in US -Tracking on shipping available -Trade-in system -What is in the pictures is the actual item -Simple, easy to use website -Instant quotes Cons: -Slow shipping - Cleanliness of gear isn't great, needs some cleaning before use -Small selection Totally agree with these points! MPB has been great with their service so far, but I've had issues with cameras having dirt in the mirror boxes. I ordered an EOS 1000D and found it to have a terrible dirt problem -- specks all over the viewfinder and marks on the sensor -- but they were super helpful and got my return set up right away. Free shipping on returns. I love the customer service they provided, as the person kept answering my questions even a whole 2 weeks after our original conversation. I turned around and ordered a 1300D the next time, which was in much better condition, but still had a mark and a scratch in the viewfinder. Their lenses are excellent though. I ordered an EF-S 24mm STM and it was practically brand new, same with a cheap AF-P 18-55 kit. As of right now I'm selling pretty much all of my APS-C gear (D3300, 1300D, lenses) for an M43 kit, an Olympus E-M1 with a battery grip and a Panasonic 25mm f/1.7. I'll come back and update this once it arrives. Hoping for the best! And yes, their prices are excellent. I always try to find a better deal on KEH, B and H, UPP, and eBay, but I have never found anything cheaper than MPB.

[@snappiness]

I'm hearing this from a few other people already. Sounds like mpb might have an issue inspecting items thoroughly. Glad you can return easily though. I am shooting a GX1 and 20mm 1.7 m43 camera and lens combo and finding it amazing! People kept telling me that lens was good, but it's GOOD! I've heard similar things about the 25mm. Should be a great combo!

[@SquawkCode]

Thank you, this is great info! I would love to see an updated video on this and maybe a lens buyers guide. Subscribed!

[@stephenm103]

Been doing some very serious shopping for Hasselblad "H" series used gear recently . . . going on about 3 months worth and finally made my first purchase from a supplier in the EU. Still more components I need to source but I've learned a lot. First lesson - not all grading scales are equal. For example - KEH's "EXCELLENT" is only a single step above their BARGAIN rating . . . . no GOOD or VERY GOOD - - - they go from BARGAIN to EXCELLENT in a single step. . . . . this fact combines with their unwillingness to provide pictures of the actual goods sold to create a situation which places a rising burden on the buyer . . . . .buy it, look it over and if you dont like - you can (go thru the trouble of) return(ing) it. A call to their sales rep to inquire about shutter counts was responded to with "We dont provide shutter counts" In all fairness they will also sell you an extended warranty (as will Adorama - but not MBP) and the willingness to sell that extended warranty is evidence of their confidence in the product. Which gets me to the second lesson - reputation matters. Beyond the heavy hitters like Adorama and UPP and KEH, there are loads of other buyers on eBay (I've done several international buys of used Nikon and Hasselblad gear - every one of which has gone off without a hitch and I've been generally pleased with the value received). . . . . but eBay is a tricky supplier. In addition to known suppliers who have a reputation to uphold, there are loads of tempting individual suppliers. Some of these are informed pro's who know what they've got and what they are offering - - others are . . . . . .well, who knows. Are they fencing stolen gear? Inherited stuff that the seller knows little about? Every one of them will say "Works as intended" which usually means the shutter fires but is it firing accurately? How will you know? Is that over/underexposed picture which occurs every one in ten shots the result of the photographer OR an intermittent fault in your latest used buy? I asked one seller about the shutter counts on his offering and his response was "What's that?" - - - - - so much for any of his claims about the condition of the goods he was offering, I quickly walked away. Yet another seller is offering a kit using pictures of the exact same goods being offered elsewhere on eBay at the exact same time. (There are a couple of "dings" on the body which are telltale in this case). I asked the seller if s/he has pics of THEIR product being offered and have yet to receive a reply. Reputation matters! And dont get me wrong, private parties may be a great way to go. But - you need to establish the reputation and reliability of the sellers statements. Asking the seller pointed questions about the equipment being sold will quickly inform the reliability of any other claims. Someone who knows the gear intimately is going to respond in detail. Answering a question with a question is suspect. When probed, some sellers will point to the right of refusal policy which allows a return in 30 days. . . .. . . but when you're shopping for film gear, ask yourself how long it COULD take you to get a roll shot and processed and returned . . . . . that 30 days MIGHT be enough or might not. Pictures of the actual goods being offered go a long way to build confidence. Are there signs that the camera has been worked on by a rookie? Look for pry marks at the seams of the case. Are screw heads noticeably "tweaked" from using a worn or incorrect tool in an attempt to facilitate a repair? High contrast or shallow depth of field images can hide a lot of blemishes. Is that glare off the case or is it a ding? Clear, in focus, high res images of the goods being sold earn a point for the seller. I ALWAYS want to see the lens mounting face. Examine it carefully. It is one of the few places that will give you some sense of how hard the camera has been worked. Crappy, out of focus images which do NOT show all of the mating surfaces are a warning sign.

[@OctoberSnow-pu6ny]

I bought Canon R10 and RF f1.8 50mm on Usedphotopro this morning after watching this video. I will my feedback once I get it! Thank you for your information❤

[@rohithk4659]

How's the camera

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

A great overview! I love how MPB has stepped up their packaging game with the sustainable paper wrap and boxes but they take foreeeeever to ship. I've also had to return quite a few items as they shipped defective units to me, the last very sadly being a Pentax K10D that had irreparable focus alignment issues and a 31mm limited that couldn't focus to infinity due to a jam on the focus ring. I was very sad to return them. I feel like the quality checks are higher at KEH but the prices also go with that. I have only used UsedPhotoPro a few times so I'll have to check them more often.

[@snappiness]

Good to know... I've eyed a 31 on their site before. In fact there's one there now. If it's the same one you had that would be crumby 😠 I mean, good you can return but still. Bummer about the K10D too! Such a good camera!

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

@@snappiness loosing out on the K10D really broke my heart but I still have my *ist DL at least.

[@CharlieMcNulty]

I have had the same recent experience with MPB. Am waiting for a refund on a defective lens.

[@OneMonthTwoCameras]

@@CharlieMcNulty bummer. I'm surprised they don't do a better QC check given they are most likely purchasing these items first themselves.

[@snappiness]

@@OneMonthTwoCameras it does sound like a QC issue.. I'm reading other reports already and this video just dropped! Bummer!

[@billhurst7932]

I live in Canada and I bought a lens from KEH a week ago. I am very happy with the lens However there are a couple of reasons why I will not deal with them again. 1 - They advertise free delivery to the USA but not to Canada. I can understand this because of the possible extra cost, however they could easily give an equivalent discount in lew of the shipping cost. 2 - They use Fedex rather than USPS so I was charged supposedly for duty and brokerage which USPS does not. As a result by the time I paid the exchange on the money the 400.00 lens ended up costing me well over 700.00. As with most American companies they really don't seem to care about us Canadians but I am sure they appreciate our business,

[@anthonydavis4829]

UPP is great! Bought nikon cameras from them and in the years since,nnoproblems at all

[@shikataganai824]

Appreciate the thoughtfulness of this video

[@vzshadow1]

I checked the return policy for MPB today and found it to be 14 days. I've never waited a week for anything I got from MPB, always less time.

[@lesz344]

Thanks for the video, beats the auction sites where automatic bids come in with 2 seconds left. Some thoughts on MPB: 1) MPB uses FedEx to me in California and FedEx has had some problems lately with shipments going in circles. 2) I think that MPB has Brooklyn, Brighton UK, Berlin, and Paris offices, 3) Sometimes MPB has 10 or 15 of the same model camera so maybe they're dealing with the camera companies or distributors. 4) Often they will have for $40 or $50 USD early mirrorless like Sony NEX, Nikon 1, Olympus E-P or E-PL. At that price I'll just grab it and stick a manual Fujian c-mount lens (about $35) and have a kit with a fast prime for about $80 total. I really like the Nikon 1 with its ultra slow motion video and the Oly E-P1 is like a piece of sculpture.

[@terrydegraff670]

I'm also in CA and am waiting for a lens from MPB. It's been a solid week of delays. The thing sat in Chicago for 3 days and is now wandering around New Mexico and Arizona.

[@EstelonAgarwaen]

Have never had any problems buying off mpb. When i talked to their customer service, they were super nice!

[@snappiness]

That's been my experience so far as well :)

[@RJUnleashedVideos]

Just beginning to shop for lenses for my Sony A6400. Thank you for the review and referral. Best

[@stephenm103]

If you're going to buy from MPB - - be sure to do a screen capture of the advertised goods BEFORE you place your order. They disappear from the web site and details such as agreed upon accessories and anything OTHER than the condition (shutter counts for example) vanish. Your word against theirs if there is any dispute.

[@myblacklab7]

Great tip!

[@donbetosoy]

Thank you for the time and content.

[@jaspercaelan4998]

Bought 3 pieces of used gear a few days ago from MPB with obvious problems that should have been picked up if they had bothered to properly inspect them. One lens did not autofocus past it's widest zoom range and the camera body mode dial lock did not work. I don't trust them at all anymore. I think they are just pushing QC down the line to the customer now even if they might have been good in the past.

[@EnidAgnusDei]

MPB UK are very, very good, bought 3 items recently all arrived quick and working well.

[@67comet]

I've also shopped through them all (and B&H, E-Bay and beleive it or not .. Etsy).. KEH was my introduction to ordering used, then Used, then MPB .. I've ordered most of my lenses through Etsy though.. I love old glass on my K1 mkii (I do miss autofocus but .. oh well) ..

[@jonlouis2582]

I've had the best luck with UPP over years of buying, great service. Almost nothing but trouble with KEH, I think I sent back every item except one. I also love B+H.

[@rutlegs]

Thank you for this video, you've earned a new subscriber! I currently have a transaction pending with MPB. The wait seems to be pretty long but perhaps I'm just anxious!

[@snappiness]

It does seem to take them a while, but I've always had good luck with them in the end. Just got some lenses in the mail from them last week, in fact!

[@terrywbreedlove]

The only one I have known of until now is KEH. I have been using them for years and always look there first. Now I will check the other two thank you.

[@snappiness]

They've been good to me. Nice to have all three to check if you're looking for some uncommon item. There's a few other smaller shops that ship online that I check, but these are by far the most robust.

[@ajpmalloy]

UPP is a two hour drive so I can get stuff same day.

[@timryan894]

UPP is here in my hometown, but I often get better deals buying online vs going into the store. I just purchased a Sony A99 from MPB (great price like you said). KEH is my least favorite to shop at for the very reason you mentioned (showing products not in stock)

[@snappiness]

Oh man, if UPP was in my hometown I'd have even more of a buying problem than I do now haha. Grats on the A99! What a find. That's a hidden gem of a camera right there.

[@Texas210ify]

I use KEH all the time.

[@imjooboy]

My last half dozen purchases or so have been with MPB. I agree they tend to have better prices than KEH.

[@The_Youtube_Winner]

Here is why I order from KEH. I have such a positive experience with them. (Im in the U.S. Some people say KEH is more U.S focused?) I ordered a $1000 lens from KEH because they had the best price. I was saving $300 or $400. Dont remember since it was a year ago. Website said it was well used. I didn't care all that much because it was the cheapest by FAR. It just needed to work. I opened the packaging expecting disaster, but looked perfectly new. I inspected the lens for a solid 10 minutes, trying to find where it had been well used. The description said nothing of "well-used" interior areas, it said it was well-used because of the "external dents and damages." I tried my best to find them and was unable. I wrote them a review that said I am recommending them to everyone I work with. THEY SENT ME A LETTER BACK THANKING ME. They've won me over in terms of buying. No idea what its like to sell on there but reading the comments makes them seem like they are great at that too. Great company, cant go wrong. One of the nicer and more friendly website layouts as well.

[@roastbeefy0weefy]

MPB seems to have the lowest prices in my experience. Selling to them is also really convenient.

[@ForeverYoung007]

I think it depends. For the most part I do prefer UPP and have had the most consistent experience with them. For some things they have great pricing but in some cases I have found MPB to better. However, I find MPB to be the slowest with shipping. KEH seems to have consistently higher prices than most and I had high expectations based on people commenting on how they are "conservative" with their ratings. However a camera I purchased them was rated as a bargain but had significant wear and mileage and should have been rated lower. I completely agree that it makes it a pain to purchase items you can't see and for that reason I have avoid purchasing from there considering their prices and lack of photos

[@TrishaDash]

Thanks for this amazing video and comparisons! I almost spend more money ordering from keh; instead I chose mpb best out of the three they had the best lenses for the best price I was looking for. Almost went Used Camera Pros for their one year warranty on most items.

[@vermontmike9800]

Will KEH allow returns if I’m not happy with the shutter count?

[@polisheverything1970]

KEH has some good bargains on the few occasions that I've looked but when there is a $50 shipping charge to here in the UK it makes the total cost too much.

[@snappiness]

Oh yeah, blah. Reminds me of a $6 leather case I wanted to buy for my old Olympus E-420 from Park Camera in the UK. $30 something to ship to the states. Still almost did it though. It's was the only one I could find on the internet after weeks xD

[@alchemistkj]

Hey.. first vid i've seen awesome vid did you build the box shelves behind you? or do you have a link?

[@snappiness]

I built them myself! I used old fence board from a neighbors fence they were tearing down. The frames for the photos are out of the same fence board.

[@alchemistkj]

@@snappiness thanks .... I think I may need to borrow inspiration from that design.....awesome stuff

[@snappiness]

@@alchemistkj yeah totally! I just cut them into lengths divisible by 3 (6, 9, 12") and played with the shapes. Came up with all sorts of designs.

[@JohnWenzelburgerJW]

Thanks never heard of Used photo pro but went there and found a lens I was ready to buy new had it open in another tab just waiting to push the button. buying it used from them saved me $400 I could not find the lens used anywhere else.

[@thomasmenzel165]

I do buy from mpb in Germany (Berlin) regularily. Very good place. Just bought a Pentax K 10D from them ... because of a video I recently saw... Now guess where I saw that video.... (I am based in europe, Finland)

[@danigonzalez4299]

Awesome! Just here in Europe isn't as easy to buy from the three of them I think

[@snappiness]

Yeah, I think MPB is the only one with operations outside the U.S.

[@marksuchomelsr6698]

I have been buying from MPB for the last five years or so and with one exception, have been very satisfied with them. Prices are great, their inspection process has been on the money and you see exactly what you are getting. The one exception was that I ordered an EF canon lens and they sent an EF-S lens of the same type. The problem was that the person that put the inventory sticker on the lens mixed them up. The correct lens was expressed to me to correct the problem. With few exceptions, I buy from them exclusively.

[@Pmike404]

Kolari Vision is also a pretty good place to get camera gear but they specialize in infrared and full spectrum photography. They also to sensor repairs on Leica M9s

[@snappiness]

I've bought filters from Kolari before for my infrared cameras, but I never thought to check for used cameras. Good tip!

[@sdhute]

This video looks amazing

[@snappiness]

Thanks, I'm working on getting better with it. Changed my lighting setup. Going to be working on more aspects later. Little by little you learn a bit here and there :)

[@TheScottab]

I ordered a Hoodman HoodLoupe for my Pentax K1. KEH sent me the wrong one. I called them to report the problem. The guy on the phone was very nice and told me that they had made a mistake. Sadly they no longer had what I wanted in stock. He refunded my money, I inquired about returning the one they sent. He told me to keep it and apologized again. I thought that was pretty great customer service.

[@snappiness]

Good, glad to hear. That's the right thing to do. Own up to the mistake fast, and make it pain free to resolve!

[@edc5338]

I've ordered from all three with good results. I've sold many items to KEH and my only problem is their online quote is not what they want to pay you. I keep my equipment very pristine, so this can be upsetting when the final quote can be $hundreds less.. None of these show camera shutter counts. You have to call them to get this. I find their ratings are on par for equipment. Even "bargain" equipment can be quite good. I'd rather buy from these 3 than eBay. B&H used items are good but generally pricey.

[@worldadventuretravel]

I've used MPB quite a bit. It's stupid to buy new camera gear when there's such a robust secondhand gear market, especially for DSLR equipment. The latter is a particular advantage because of the recent obsession with mirrorless kit. If you want to lower your barrier to entry into photography and be able to buy an amazing camera system, an older DSLR and three or four amazing lenses (I love Sigma Art and Tokina Opera series lenses, and Samyang makes beautiful, fast glass if you're okay with manual focusing) for half of what you would have to pay just to get into an entry level mirrorless kit.

[@dayeah765caoni3]

Based on limited experience, MPB offers higher price for selling while Keh has better deals for buying

[@nicosan9232]

THANKS

[@doty2008]

Came across your video today and found it super helpful, thank you! I've shot crop-sensor cameras for years now, and really wanted to get into a full-frame camera. I decided to go with MPB, because of their prices and that they also provided actual pictures and shutter count of the cameras. I'm now trading in some old gear for credit towards a 5d Mark III! So far the process has been very streamlined, and I'll keep you posted. Thanks again! 😁

[@snappiness]

How exciting! Good luck, and have fun! :)

[@Moresco24]

thanks for the video, do you think its safe to get a used a7riii from MPB? are they true to their camera condition score and inspection ?

[@snappiness]

I just received another camera from them this week and it was as described. I trust purchasing from them, and have never had a bad experience (other than one order taking 2 weeks to even ship!). I have heard some people dispute the condition of the item, but it always eventually gets resolved with a return. The issue you run into there is the time spent and the hassle, but you should always be able to get your money back. I've never heard of anyone not getting their money back. It's a legit company.

[@Moresco24]

@@snappiness thank you 👍🏼

[@f2john]

I think since this video was posted that KEH no longer shows out of stock items on the site. I use the often as I've found with older more common gear ie pre ai Nikon stuff they are less than eBay and I live close enough that if I order in the morning Monday to Friday I get it the next day.

[@anianoenrique2115]

I haven't found an MPB site for Germany, but there is one for France.

[@SammySantiagoIrizarry]

Great Video!!! All of them, KEH, UsedPhotopro and MPB are really the best way to buy used photo equipment!!!

[@snappiness]

Yep! Good way to go when you don't want to deal with the potential hassles of peer-to-peer. Especially when sometimes it's next to the same price anyway.

[@marksieving7925]

MPB has the best prices but if you're looking for film cameras or vintage manual focus lenses you can forget about them: they don't carry that. KEH has the best selection of vintage gear but the highest prices. UPP has good prices but the smallest selection.

[@stonehenges5722]

Of the three it seems Camera Store is the winner..

[@escaalopette1129]

do you guys thinks it's interesting for me to wait until the black friday to buy a camera on mpb ?(idk if they do sales for the black friday tho)

[@e3grafx]

i like your videos about all of the cameras you have in your collection. very enjoyable. i don't like KEH due to a bit of misleading on their part. i signed up to trade in some camera bodies and got all the way to step 2, printing the paperwork to include in the box, and there was no prepaid shipping lable with the form. i called them and was told free shipping was for more than $100. i mentioned that was not specified before i went thru the whole process. the C.S. person insisted it was clearly stated. not true. not in the initial process before printing the forms or as i was listing the items to trade in. i was very put off by the situation. not right at all. also, their prices aren't that great, as well as their selection of non-high-end merch. you live and learn. just an fyi.

[@jimzielinski946]

I have used KEH. I agree that their web site takes some time to get used to. Depending on what I'm doing, I sometimes use their web site as a picture library of old lenses. I've found them to be honest about grading. There was only one occasion (this had to be 30 or 40years ago!) Where I disagreed with their grading. In that case the price they put on the lens was very fair for what I considered it's true grade. They are a little pricey compared to eBay. The way I look at it, the higher price means they are holding the item for me!

[@arunkumaracharya9641]

looks like lot of paid comments 😂 when was internet introduced?

[@brucedavis4550]

They used to put out a catalog of their used gear and I used that to buy gear before the Internet came along. Yes, back in the day. They still had the catalog just a few years ago and may still have it, but Internet is far more current and sure about actually having something in stock. They would also stick the catalog in the box when you made a purchase. And then you called them by phone and they would wait for a check or you paid by credit card. Slow, but worked.

[@whfowle]

The big difference I have experienced is that MPB only offers digital cameras while KEH has film gear as well as digital.

[@photobobo]

Yeah, just ordered a camera from mpb, last Thursday. They still haven't shipped. So, what is the hold up?

[@snappiness]

Not sure what their deal is. Same thing for me. Once it shipped though it was fast. One was overnight (the camera) and the lens I bought a few weeks ago was two-day.

[@Footbalplus]

Which company can you recommend if you are an international buyer~anyway am from malawi

[@twesttv]

MPB first gave me a low-ball bid, after they received my gear (in good condition) then knocked off over 300 bucks. I rejected that offer and asked for my gear back in the original box. They claimed they threw my box away and also the original manual for my camera which I believe they kept. Then refused to pay the value of those items. Never again.

[@paulanderson24]

MPB have had a place in the UK outside London for years. I’ve traded/sold lots of stuff to them but the last couple of times I’ve not been impressed. They downgraded equipment ratings further than I thought was fair (an almost new lens they claimed was well used as it had a few tiny dust specs inside the element - it was used for filming a gig in a bar). The prices that offer seem to be much lower than they used to be and the last time - and final time - it took them much too long to send payment. I had to chase them for it.

[@philiphunter3966]

Yep. Agree MPB have gone downhill in the UK. Not had the downgrade experience selling to them but they became very slow in checking the gear / paying. Very slow customer service when you have an issue with gear you buy also. Been buying more from Wex recently, better prices, better service, free shipping.

[@snappiness]

Uhg that sounds awful. I haven't sold anything to any of these places, but buying has been good so far. Good to know about Wex for those in the UK.

[@paulanderson24]

@@snappiness hopefully their branch in the US is better should you decide to trade in to them. I haven’t used Wex myself for used equipment but I will have to look into it

[@stuartcarden1371]

This is strange because I've had no problems and I trade with them a lot. Luck of the draw I guess. I've often had upgrades and while the process did slow down during covid, it seems back up to speed again. I'm from Brighton, where they're based, and they were recently advertising for jobs in their service and testing department, so perhaps they were short staffed for a while.

[@paulanderson24]

@@stuartcarden1371 that could be the case but it definitely left a bad impression with me. Once I give the benefit of the doubt but when it’s more than once it’s a concern. Hopefully that is the case and they are better again as a few years ago they were superb

[@RichieColemanSr]

KEH doesn't show the shutter count, like MPB.

[@snappiness]

Oh good catch, yeah that's a helpful bit of info

[@RichieColemanSr]

@@snappiness Have you purchased from B&H?

[@snappiness]

@@RichieColemanSr only new items, never used. I assume their used stuff is good it's just usually much higher price. But it's a good company.

[@RichieColemanSr]

@@snappiness Who do you prefer, KEH or MPB?

[@chuckdavidson5483]

James, I’ve got a Nikon 990. But the tiny notches in the battery door broke and the door doesn’t lock shut. Curious if yours is still good.

[@snappiness]

Yep, works great! I've been shooting it since January. Do you tape yours shut or it just doesn't work at all anymore?

[@chuckdavidson5483]

@@snappiness It's in a box somewhere. I grew weary speculating on ways to fix it, and I had other functional cams with more megapixels. I may dig it out sometime. A real oddball cam that one.

[@justwhenithought]

Agree that KEH webpage layout and navigation is just weird.

[@livin_lino]

Which of these ship to Canada, specifically Quebec. Anyone who have bought?

[@josemanuelr5984]

Unfortunately to buy goods in the USA is expensive for residents in EU due to taxes....

[@chuckdavidson5483]

Hey James, I just bought a Pentax 50-135 DA* ED IF F2.8 SDM from MPB. It was only $375, so my assumption was that the SDM would be non-functional, which it turned out to be. Precision Camera in Connecticut wants something like $425 to fix it. That brings the total to $800. Still thats less than the $1,046.95 that B&H (for example) wants for a new one. But I recall you talking about converting an SDM lens to the less desirable, noisy but quick, in-body screw drive. The 50-135 SDM has a screw-drive receiver. How does one do this? - Thanks! Chuck

[@snappiness]

Gratz on the lens. It's a good one. I followed a process similar to this, but a little different. This is the basic idea though. kzbin.info/www/bejne/faukppaDls2NhpI I used a K10D and didn't bother with pk tether, just used an SD card. And the instructions on a K10D to access debug menu are different. Feel free to email me (about me section of KZbin) if you are going to attempt it and have questions.

[@chuckdavidson5483]

@@snappiness Hey, thanks for the link. As it turns out, I was fiddling with it mounted to the K3ii just now, and as I pressed the AF button I thought I heard a noise. So I held the lens to my ear and held the button for a long time, low and behold I hear the motor. I test it focusing with the with the VF and it totally works. It just reacts differently (slower) from the PLM and DC that I have. So, not a technical problem - but pilot error. Thanks again!!! Cheers!

[@chuckdavidson5483]

@@snappiness I've watched the video, and the tips to keep the lens exercised and to wake it up I think will be useful, given that the SDM works, but is a bit sluggish. If all that fails I'll try the screw-drive conversion.

[@snappiness]

@@chuckdavidson5483 Yes, and that is usually how it fails - gradually. I bought my 50-135 with a discount due to failed SDM, but my 300mm I had working SDM that went out once on a cold day. It was really odd, one second it was working, then it wasn't, then it was but sluggish. I ended up just converting it because I couldn't rely on it going in and out like that. But you can certainly keep using it that way.

[@kevinmccray8351]

KEH's no-hassle return policy is pretty lousy by 2022 standards. When you make a return, they deduct their cost of shipping from the return if you were qualified for free shipping AND the item has to be shipped back to them at the buyer's risk and expense, so expensive insurance for lenses and whatnot is a must. I get that there are costs associated with returns, but there are grey-market sellers on freaking Ebay who will send you a prepaid return label if you don't like what they sent you.

[@snappiness]

That's a good thing to point out that I missed in the fine print. I'll add those details on my webpage that goes into more detail. I can't quite tell from UsedPhotoPro FAQ, but they don't mention return shipping costs on the buyer. MPB says if the listing was in error they will cover costs, and otherwise the buyer is responsible for costs. Thanks!

[@ravebrave8866]

MPB does not add taxes to the total price... but I see KEH charges extra taxes over the total amount.

[@leonarddaneman810]

I tried MPB and their inspection and rating is poor. What they rated as EXC+ would be POOR on KEH. I find KEH under-rates . . . I always had good experiences with them.

[@joseacarrasm]

I bought a 5D Mark III graded as "Bargain" but the shutter count was almost 90K! How could this be considered a Bargain? My issue is that return the camera is not an option since I am outsde USA.

[@jammyn7368]

I purchased a FTZ adapter for my Z6 and because KEH does not show the actual picture of the item, I had to process a return (crack near one of the screws and I certainly would NOT have purchased the adapter had I seen a picture of it. NO FREE SHIPPING ON RETURNS from KEH. Return shipping, I was told, is on my dime. I will not purchase from KEH in future.

[@weisserth]

None of these places mentioned is first choice. Ebay still is, more specifically Japanese sellers in Japan.

[@ivanalban5037]

Robert's is best.

[@hariskhoso5997]

i,m from Pakistan & want ro sell couple of Hasselblad Camera / Lenses, along with H1 / Phase One P65+ as good as New. could u help me how to.

[@54lash]

How can you recommend MPB? Everyone is saying no service, wrong or broken equipment received. I myself didn't receive my equipment and you're out here recommending them!!! How much did they pay you?

[@snappiness]

I still use them to this day without issue, (ordered something this week in fact) and the overwhelming number of people I talk to have never had an issue (beyond slow shipping, as I mention in the video). It does seem like cases like yours pop up though which is concerning and why I put out my pinned thread as a heads up. In the end I've heard it always works out, just that customer service can be very slow to reply and shipping can be super delayed. But I've never heard of a case where people never got their money back. I also am not sponsored by them, but I do have affiliate links in the description. I would disclose if I was sponsored. 👍

[@54lash]

@@snappiness Read this and any other thread and you will see my experience multiplied by many others. Either you are the exception or you work there however be careful defending them as people are losing money and you're promoting that

[@54lash]

@@snappiness you yourself in this thread have said they are experiencing inspection issues. We rely on youtubers to give us unbiased reviews ...you are clearly not unbiased

[@stefanbrown8176]

Free delivery with mpb I just had to pay 20 euro eh?

[@mrlaw711]

So, you're an affiliate. have to go with your word...although you might be spot on. MPB is awesome. having two locations in Europe is an advantage to me over dealing with a USA based business. America is the scam capitol of the world. I've been in 34 countries.

[@myblacklab7]

Sadly, it does seem that America has a scam-friendly culture. Many years ago I was looking for a job, and didn't have much experience - pretty much every halfway-decent job was some sort of scam, or telemarketing. I was fired from a telemarketing job where I was the top seller, because I thought it was wrong to make unsolicited calls to people (many of whom were obviously suffering from dementia, etc.) and ask for their credit card numbers, so I was fired for refusing to do so. Mexico felt more scammy to me, but they might just do a worse job of hiding it. At a local gas-station in the U.S., I recently put more gas into a vehicle than it's total fuel capacity would allow, so they probably rig the metering, whereas in Mexico the tricks are easier to notice.