If you’ve always wanted to use a full-frame camera but have been put off by the price, then you’re in luck! In this guide, we reveal the absolute best used and second-hand full-frame camera bargains on the market. Whether you want a DSLR or a mirrorless full-frame camera, these are the models that will give you incredible value for money and a pro-like experience for a fraction of the retail price.

New versions of cameras come out roughly every year or two, and the little secret that many manufacturers don’t like to disclose is that cameras have been very, very good for some time now. Unless you’re a professional looking to shoot the Olympic Games, you really don’t need the latest cutting-edge autofocus and resolution technology from the likes of the Nikon Z8 or Canon EOS R3.

But that doesn’t mean you have to settle for a smaller-sensor camera – simply choose a second-hand model and use the same camera professionals were buying four or five years ago. You may have noticed they were capturing fantastic images then, too! We go into more detail on how to choose the best second-hand full-frame camera at the bottom of the page.

Overview

Looking for the best deal on second-hand cameras? Not only will you find the best second-hand cameras, but you’ll also find some of the best cheap used camera deals, as our ‘Buy now’ buttons are set up to take you to the best prices from trusted retailers, plus you’ll find a list of other retailers below each camera, so you can find the right deal for you.

Second-hand full-frame DSLR camera bargains

• Best enthusiast Nikon DSLR: Nikon D750 – Buy now
• Cheapest full-frame DSLR: Canon EOS 5D – Buy now
• Cheapest full-frame Nikon DSLR: Nikon D700 – Buy now
• Best Canon all-rounder: Canon EOS 5D Mark III – Buy now
• Best full-frame from Pentax: Pentax K-1 Mark II – Buy now
• Best high-resolution full-frame DSLR: Canon EOS 5DS R – Buy now

Second-hand full-frame mirrorless camera bargains

• Best all-rounder mirrorless: Sony Alpha A7R – Buy now
• Cheapest full-frame mirrorless camera: Sony Alpha A7 – Buy now
• Best entry level mirrorless: Canon EOS RP – Buy now
• Best second-hand full-frame camera with IBIS: Sony Alpha A7 II – Buy now

Second-hand full-frame DSLR camera bargains

Best enthusiast Nikon DSLR: Nikon D750

At a glance:

• Price from $730 / £640 (in excellent condition)
• Sensor 24.3MP full-frame CMOS
• Sensitivity ISO 100-12,800 (ISO 50-51,200 extended)
• Continuous shooting 6.5fps
• Video 1080p Full HD at 60fps
• Rear display Tilting 3.2-inch/1.2m-dot LCD
• Viewfinder Pentaprism, 100% coverage at 0.7x

Released towards the end of 2014, the Nikon D750 is a solidly built and highly customisable full-frame DSLR aimed at the enthusiast and semi-pro market. At the time of its launch, a new D750 body would have set you back £1,800, a figure that has since fallen dramatically. It is now possible to pick-up a used camera body for roughly a third of that price, depending on its condition and shutter count.

So, what do you get for your money? The D750 is built around a 24.3MP full-frame CMOS sensor and a Nikon Expeed 4 image processor. While this chip isn’t as powerful as the Expeed 6 used in the D750’s successor – the more recent Nikon D780 – it’s nonetheless highly capable; facilitating a maximum continuous shooting speed of 6.5fps, a native sensitivity range of ISO 100-12,800, plus expanded settings up to the equivalent of ISO 51,200.

Movie capture, meanwhile, extends to a maximum of 1080p Full HD at 60fps with external microphone and headphone inputs provided for enhanced audio capture and real-time monitoring.

Autofocus through the D750’s optical viewfinder is taken care of via Nikon’s Multi-CAM 3500 II phase-detection module. This provides 51 individual AF points in the centre of the viewfinder. While coverage doesn’t extend to the boundaries of the frame, performance is nonetheless speedy and accurate with the 3D tracking mode exceptionally good at capturing moving subjects.

Switching to live view, the D750 employs on-sensor contrast-detect AF with coverage across the entire frame. Performance is again relatively speedy, although not quite as fast as many mirrorless cameras – or indeed those Canon DSLRs equipped with Dual Pixel AF technology.

Elsewhere, the D750 also comes equipped with built-in Wi-Fi connectivity, twin SDXC (UHS-I) card slots, a 3-inch/1.2m-dot tilting rear LCD display and a large and bright pentaprism viewfinder that provides 100% coverage.

Although several years old now, image quality from the D750 remains nothing short of excellent. Indeed, while more modern Nikon DSLRs might provide greater speed and performance benefits, you’ll be hard pressed to see much difference in critical image quality at the same resolution. In addition to 12-bit and 14-bit uncompressed raw capture, the D750 provides a generous array of JPEG image processing tools and picture control modes that can be employed to get the look you want straight from camera.

You’ll also benefit from a wide-range of Nikon F-mount lenses.

Build quality

Regarding build quality, the D750 is fully weather-sealed and also benefits from magnesium alloy construction. This provides excellent protection from everyday knocks, while giving the camera a very professional feel in the hand. Buttons are well spaced and clearly labelled, and for anyone coming from another Nikon DSLR, the layout should feel instantly familiar.

While the Nikon D750 might be starting to show its age, especially when compared directly to the D780, it remains an excellent DSLR for both enthusiasts looking to go full-frame on a budget and seasoned pros looking for a solid backup body.

The release of the D780 also means that there should be good availability of Nikon D750s on the second-hand and used market as people upgrade. If you’re in the market for a second-hand full-frame DSLR that’s capable of fantastic image quality, with extensive customisation options and tank-like build quality, the Nikon D750 comes highly recommended and is well worth considering.

For more Nikon options, have a look at the best Nikon DSLRs.

Read our Nikon D750 Review

Cheapest full-frame Canon DSLR: Canon EOS 5D

At a glance:

• Price around $190 / £150 (in good/excellent condition)
• Sensor 12.8MP CMOS full-frame
• Sensitivity ISO 100-1600 (ISO 50-3200 extended)
• Continuous shooting 3fps (17 frame raw buffer depth)
• Video Not available
• Rear display 2.5-inch, 230k-dot fixed LCD screen
• Viewfinder Pentaprism, 96% coverage at 0.71x

Released in 2005, Canon’s original EOS 5D is credited as the first affordable full-frame DSLR to hit the market. While a brand new 5D body cost around $3,299 / £2,500 at the time of its launch, these days it’s possible to source a second-hand example in good condition for at least 10x less!

Given its age, it is no surprise to find that many of the 5D’s core specs – such as its nine-point AF module and 2.5-inch/233k-dot LCD display – look out-of-date by modern DSLR standards. That said, the 5D’s 12.8MP sensor is still capable of great image quality in the right hands.

To get the most out of the camera, you’ll most likely need to shoot at lower ISO speeds, or be prepared to process the raw files yourself. But if you’ve got the time to do this, it’s likely you’ll benefit from the latest raw processing technology found in new photo editing software.

Another nice thing about the Canon EOS 5D is that you can pair it with a 50mm prime lens, which can be found for bargain prices. Read our second-hand classic: Canon EOS 5D feature

Cheapest full-frame Nikon DSLR: Nikon D700

At a glance:

• Price around $250 / £300 (in good condition)
• Sensor 12.1MP full-frame CMOS
• Sensitivity ISO 200-6400 (ISO 100-25,600 extended)
• Continuous shooting 5fps (8fps with MB-D10 battery pack)
• Video Not available
• Rear display 3-inch/921k-dot LCD
• Viewfinder Pentaprism, 95% coverage at 0.72x

Released in 2008, the Nikon D700 was essentially Nikon’s answer to the phenomenally popular Canon EOS 5D. Built around the same 12.1MP full-frame CMOS sensor used in the then-flagship Nikon D3 DSLR, the D700 further benefits from a 51-point AF system, a pop-up flash that can be used as a commander off-camera Creative Lighting System, and weather-sealed magnesium alloy construction.

Two things to note are that the D700 doesn’t provide any video recording functionality, and only comes with a single CF-type card slot, which means it cannot take regular SD cards. Other than that, the D700 remains an exceptionally capable camera.

The Nikon D700 is rated as having a shutter-life of 150,000 actuations (or shots), so the smaller the shutter count on the camera you’re buying, the more potential it has for lasting longer. The camera has excellent build quality and 1000 shot battery life, making it a camera you can rely on. As with other old digital cameras, you’ll benefit from processing the raw files to get the best out of this camera, particularly if shooting at higher ISO speeds.

Read our second-hand classic: Nikon D700 feature

Best Canon all-rounder: Canon EOS 5D Mark III

At a glance:

• Price around $630 / £490 (in excellent/good condition)
• Sensor 22.3MP full-frame CMOS
• Sensitivity 100-25,600 (ISO 50-102,800 extended)
• Continuous shooting 6fps
• Video 1080p Full HD at 60fps
• Rear display 3.2-inch/1.040m-dots
• Viewfinder Pentaprism, 100% coverage at 0.71x

At the time of its release in 2012, a brand new 5D Mark III body sold for around $3,499 /  £2,250 (body only). However, it’s now possible to find second-hand bodies in excellent condition with under 40K shutter actuations for around $750.

Built around a 22.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor and Canon’s DIGIC 5+ image processor, the 5D Mark III is a highly versatile DSLR that provides an advanced feature set and plenty of customisation options. The camera gives impressive noise performance, with a vastly improved ISO range compared to the first 5D.

There are a wide range of Canon EF-mount lenses available, with budget options, all the way up to premium tilt-shift lenses. Canon’s L-series lenses are amongst some of the best Canon EF-mount lenses.

While Canon’s ground-breaking Dual Pixel AF technology wasn’t introduced to the 5D range until the 5D Mark IV, the 5D Mark III nonetheless inherits a range of high-end specs from the EOS-1D X, including a 61-point AF system, alongside customisable tracking options.

For more options have a look at the best Canon DSLRs.

Read our Canon EOS 5D Mark III Review

Best full-frame from Pentax: Pentax K-1 Mark II

At a glance:

• $1,300 / £1,100 used, body only
• 36.4MP full-frame
• 3.2in 1.04m-dot vari-angle-touchscreen
• Sensor-shift stabilisation & GPS
• Pentaprism OVF with 0.7x mag and 100% FOV
• Weather-resistant

The most recent Pentax K-1 II represents a modest upgrade from its predecessor the K-1, with the most notable improvement being the increased sensitivity by 2EV to a whopping extended ISO 819,200, however, the original K-1 is becoming increasingly more difficult to find second-hand.

With a large pentaprism optical viewfinder and a 36MP full-frame sensor, the K-1 II performs excellently in low light. Elsewhere, the K-1 also benefits from Pentax’s Pixel Shift technology that’s designed to improve the resolving power of the sensor, along with built-in Shake Reduction image stabilisation technology. This is topped with GPS and a unique feature called Astrotracer that arguably makes the K-1 II the DSLR choice for astrophotography. There are also some great value, high-quality Pentax K-mount lenses available, so landscape and portrait photographers are very well catered for.

Launched with a body-only price of $1,799 / £1,999 in 2018, it’s now possible to pick up a second-hand K-1 II body for roughly half that price, depending on its general condition and shutter count.

Have a look at the limited edition silver Pentax K-1 Mark II and lenses.

Best high-resolution full-frame DSLR: Canon EOS 5DS R

At a glance:

• Price around $1,375 /  £1,000 (in excellent/good condition)
• Sensor 50.6MP full-frame CMOS
• Sensitivity ISO 100-6400 (ISO 50-12,800 expanded)
• Continuous shooting 5fps
• Video 1080p Full HD at 30fps
• Rear display 3.2-inch/1.04m-dots
• Viewfinder Pentaprism, 0.71x magnification

The Canon EOS 5DS R is among the most expensive of our full-frame bargains picks, but when you consider that it launched with an RRP of $3,899 / £3,200, that second-hand price of around 3x less starts to look quite tasty.

Launched as a pair with the Canon EOS 5DS in 2015, the EOS 5DS R represented a new frontier of DSLR resolution, boasting a sensor with a whopping 50.6MP at its disposal. That’s still at the upper-end of full-frame resolutions today, and makes the EOS 5DS R a seriously tempting prospect for landscape photography.

Constructed to meet the needs of professional photographers, the Canon EOS 5DS R is built like a tank. It’s designed in every way to make the most of all that detail, with a spring-less mirror assembly that minimises vibrations (which really do matter at 50MP), a reinforced tripod mount, and a USB 3.0 connection for fast image transfer. For high-resolution photography, this is one of the savviest, smartest second-hand buys you can make.

As mentioned, the EOS 5DS R was launched in a pair with the EOS 5DS. The main difference between the two is that the EOS 5DS R cancels out the effect of its low-pass cancellation filter, enabling higher resolution at the cost of a slightly increased risk of moiré patterning occurring in images. If you see the EOS 5DS for a good price, it’s also well worth snapping up.

Read our Canon EOS 5DS R review

Second-hand full-frame mirrorless camera bargains

Best all-rounder mirrorless: Sony Alpha A7R

At a glance:

• Price around $479 / £490 (in excellent/good condition)
• Sensor 36.4MP full-frame CMOS
• Sensitivity ISO 50-25,600
• Continuous shooting 4fps
• Video 1080p Full HD at 60fps
• Rear display Tiltable, 3-inch, 921k-dot LCD
• Viewfinder 2.35m-dot EVF

Just as the original Canon 5D brought full-frame DSLR technology into the realm of relative affordability, the Sony A7 and A7R performed the same feat for full-frame mirrorless cameras. Indeed, at the time of their release in 2013, the only similarly small full-frame option on the market was the Leica M9, which, at nearly $5000/£5000, was almost triple the price of the A7R body-only launch price.

Fast-forward twelve years and the A7 series is now in its fifth generation, with the latest A7R V model sporting a 61MP back-illuminated full-frame sensor, albeit at a cost of nearly $4,000 body-only.

For those looking to reap the benefits of Sony’s A7 series without breaking the bank, the original A7R can now be picked up very cheaply second-hand. This might require some patience in order to secure a good example as the first-generation A7R doesn’t appear in the second-hand market as often as many more recent models.

While the 24.3MP A7 was positioned as an enthusiast-grade all-rounder, the A7R comes equipped with a 36.4MP sensor, marking it out as an ideal choice for those prioritising resolution. In keeping with this, the A7R does without a low-pass filter in order to enhance the resolution of fine detail. The A7R’s 36.4MP full-frame CMOS sensor is paired with a Sony BIONZ X image processor that facilitates a sensitivity range of ISO 100-25,600 (expandable to ISO 50) and a maximum continuous shooting speed of 4fps.

Unlike the standard A7 with its hybrid (phase and contrast detect) AF module, the A7R’s 25-point AF system employs only contrast detect technology to ascertain focus. As a result, it’s a little slower than its A7 sibling. The A7R wasn’t designed as an action or sports camera, but its AF performance is speedy enough in all but the dimmest of conditions; adequate for all but the most demanding users. Most other cameras that rely solely on contrast-detect tend to struggle with this, too.

While the ability to record 4K movies wasn’t introduced until the A7R Mark II, the A7R does provide 1080p Full HD video capture at up to 60fps and also sports microphone and headphone jacks on the side.

Build quality

Constructed from magnesium alloy, the A7R feels solidly built in the hand and is designed to be resistant to dust and moisture. That said, its plastic port covers at the side are a bit flimsy and have since been improved on the A7R IV.

Image quality from the A7R remains very good, even by today’s standards, especially when the camera is used at lower sensitivity settings. While some noise does begin to creep into images at ISO 800, the camera generally keeps the unwanted side effects of noise at bay.

Dynamic range, although not quite on a par with the A7, is also impressive given the camera’s high-resolution sensor, while automatic white balance can be relied upon to deliver consistently true-to-life colour. It offers extremely good image quality for the price, and there is a wide-range of Sony E-mount lenses available.

Read our Sony Alpha 7R Review

Cheapest full-frame mirrorless camera: Sony Alpha A7

At a glance:

• Price $500 / £424 (in excellent condition)
• Sensor 24.3MP full-frame CMOS
• Sensitivity ISO 100-25,600 (ISO 50 expanded)
• Continuous shooting 5fps
• Video 1080p Full HD at 60fps
• Rear display 3in/1.22m-dot LCD
• Viewfinder 2.4m-dot EVF

Sony has long offered three distinct models within its Alpha 7 range, each of which caters to a slightly different target audience. Whereas A7R models are designed for maximum resolution and A7S models prioritise video and low-light shooting performance, the regular A7 has always been about providing an all-round package.

Released in 2013 alongside the A7R that we’ve already covered within this round-up, the A7 was notable for being the first affordable full-frame mirrorless camera to hit the market.

The good news is that used Sony A7 cameras can easily be picked up for under $500 / £500 these days, although you may need to shop around as stock levels have dropped. While subsequent models in the A7 range have undoubtedly added useful new features and come equipped with more up-to-date hardware, the A7 remains an extremely capable camera and the cheapest full-frame Sony.

Built around a 24.3MP full-frame sensor and Sony’s BIONZ X processor, the A7 further benefits from hybrid AF technology that combines 117 on-sensor phase-detection pixels with a further 25 contrast-detect points for frame-wide coverage.

Worth noting is that the Sony A7 II and Sony A7R II introduced 5-axis in-body image stabilisation (IBIS), as well as improved handling, so this is something to be aware of, particularly if you have the budget to spend a bit more.

Read our Sony Alpha 7 Review

Best entry level mirrorless: Canon EOS RP

At a glance:

• Price $900 / £1,049 (in excellent condition)
• Sensor 26.2MP full-frame CMOS
• Sensitivity ISO 100-40,000 (ISO 50-102,400 extended)
• Continuous shooting 5fps
• Video 4K at 25fps
• Rear display Vari-angle 3-inch/1.04m-dot LCD touchscreen
• Viewfinder 2.36m-dot EVF

The Canon RP is an entry-level full-frame mirrorless camera that’s designed to appeal to those looking to go full-frame on a budget. Released in 2019 with a body-only price of $1,300 / £1,400, used RP bodies can now be picked up for much less in ‘excellent’ condition.

For the money, you get a super compact full-frame camera that’s actually lighter than Canon’s 800D APS-C DSLR. While controls and features have been stripped back to increase the RP’s appeal to novice users, the camera does come with Canon’s Dual Pixel AF technology and 4K video recording abilities – albeit at a rather limiting 25fps.

Designed to be used with RF-mount mirrorless lenses, the RP was sold with an EF lens mount adapter in the box.

Read our Canon EOS RP Review

Best second-hand full-frame camera with IBIS: Sony Alpha A7 II

At a glance:

• Price $920 / £550 (in excellent condition)
• Sensor 24.3MP full-frame CMOS
• Sensitivity ISO 100-25,600 (ISO 50-102,400 extended)
• Continuous shooting 5fps
• Video 1080p Full HD at 50fps
• Rear display Fixed 3-inch/1.23m- dot LCD
• Viewfinder 2.36M dot OLED

Ten years old but still a strong contender, this was the first full-frame mirrorless camera to feature 5-axis in-body image stabilisation – something that quickly became a must-have feature in mirrorless cameras. It also inherits the excellent OLED electronic viewfinder from the Alpha 7 and a redesigned handgrip and control layout enhances operation and handling.

The biggest drawbacks are the relatively loud shutter and the fiddly rear control wheel, so it’s not the best choice if you photograph timid wildlife or go in for candid street photography. Otherwise, the A7 II is a solid performer and benefits from the wide range of Sony E-mount lenses.

Read our Sony Alpha 7 II Review

Why use full-frame at all?

The larger sensor size carries a number of advantages and has been popular with professionals and high-end enthusiasts ever since the arrival of the Canon EOS 5D in 2005. A large full-frame sensor can give you greater dynamic range as the individual photosites that make up the pixels are generally larger than those found in smaller sensors. This means cleaner images with less noise even at high ISOs, which makes for better low-light performance.

Full-frame sensors are also better for creating shallow depth of field in images, which is perfect for portraits. For a complete run-down of the advantages (and disadvantages) of full-frame see our comprehensive guide to full-frame vs APS-C.

How to find the best second-hand full-frame camera bargains

Buying second-hand is a great way to save some cash, but it pays to do it right. Reputable second-hand dealers such as Park Cameras, Wex, Ffordes, LCE, CameraWorld, and MPB (or Adorama, B&H Photo Video, and MPB in the USA) will offer decent warranties on used gear, meaning that you’ve got some cover for any faults in the camera that may develop.

We’ve included both DSLRs and mirrorless cameras on this list – some people prefer the rugged build and optical viewfinders of DSLRs, while others like the lightweight agility and super-fast focusing of mirrorless.

If you go for a DSLR, make sure you check the shutter actuation count, which should be listed on the dealer’s website. We would recommend you think carefully before getting a pro body with more than 50,000 shutter actuations, or a non-pro body with more than 20,000. For that, the price had better be really good.

We’ve taken a hard look at the best DSLR and mirrorless second-hand full-frame bargains you can find right now. These are all cameras we reviewed on first release, and we have returned to many of them since; so each of them here comes with our genuine, informed recommendation.

Want more choice? Check out our general guide to the best second-hand cameras, which includes APS-C models as well as full-frame, and we have a guide to how to build a complete second-hand system for under $1,000/£1,000. We also have some tips on how to get the best prices for used cameras and lenses.

Disclaimer: prices and retailers of the cameras in this article were chosen based on those who had stocks of the specific cameras at the time of writing this article. The availability of stocks and exactly who has certain cameras varies, naturally, so please do check all the latest stockists and prices before making any camera purchase.

Further reading:

• Best full-frame mirrorless cameras
• Which maker has the best range of full-frame mirrorless lenses?
• What are the best cheap full-frame cameras?
• Best second-hand full-frame mirrorless cameras

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The post The best second-hand full-frame camera bargains appeared first on Amateur Photographer.

The best vintage lenses to try

Mathieu Stern, the weird lens guru, has a wealth of knowledge about rare and vintage lenses. He shares his wisdom via The Weird Lens Museum at www.mathieustern.com. Here are some excellent optics from his cabinet of curiosities and AP’s favourites.

Jupiter 11 135mm f/4

It looks like a rocket ship, but the Jupiter 11 135mm f/4 is certainly not a novelty lens – it offers amazing image quality, super sharpness and lovely warm colours. It’s also a great lens for video because the aperture ring doesn’t make a clicking sound.

Helios 40 85mm f/1.5

Mathieu describes the Helios 40 85mm f/1.5 as the ‘legendary swirly bokeh king’, and it’s easy to see why. When used wide open, this lens creates a swirly effect around your subject that gives your images an attractive, dreamlike quality. It’s a great lens for portraits.

Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 SSC

The contrast and colours produced by the FD series are a big draw, but the Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 SSC deserves a special mention. You’ll get some spectacular flare when shooting towards the sun with this lens, but the results can be pleasingly cinematic.

Minolta 50mm f/1.4

The Minolta 50mm f/1.4 is a cinematic lens, which makes it easy to isolate your main subject from the background. It has been described as ‘Minolta’s sharpest prime lens’ and doesn’t disappoint on that front. Its resolution and contrast are exceptional, and the bokeh is beautiful.

Pentax Super Takumar 50mm f/1.4

You’ll find several versions of the Pentax Super Takumar 50mm f/1.4 on the market. Some are radioactive due to the thorium glass used in their construction. It’s a fast, high-quality lens with sharpness maintained well throughout the aperture range.

Here are some more vintage lenses you can try, designed or adapted for use on modern mirrorless cameras:

Minox Color Minotar 35mm F2.8

M.S. Hobbies, a Minox specialist based in London, offers Minox lenses from the old Minox 35 cameras. These lenses designed for 35mm film are now adapted for Sony E-mount and Fujifilm’s X-mount cameras. You can buy one for under £180 from mshobbies.co.uk. (JW)

Dispolens

The DispoLens is a small accessory that attaches to the front of your mirrorless camera lens. It creates an effect that resembles the nostalgic feel and vintage aesthetic of pictures taken with disposable cameras. These are fixed-focus 28mm F/10 lenses and are available for Sony E-mount and Fuji Z-mount.
Another interesting offer from DispoStudio is the triple lens: a disposable camera lens fitted with three used disposable camera lenses that create three overlapping images.

Read on to see the amazing photographs these and other vintage lenses can make…

How to use vintage lenses for beautiful photographs

Photographer Annemarie Farley

Over the years, Annemarie has won numerous awards and regularly appears as a judge and mentor for the British Institute of Professional Photography. Annemarie recently started experimenting with cyanotypes on glass (see Instagram: @cyan_on_glass). www.flowerfoto.com and @flowerfotofineart.

There is something magical about the bokeh that vintage lenses produce. Many people don’t notice the background of an image, but to me, it’s just as important as the foreground. Anamorphic vintage lenses create oval bokeh. It’s a subtle effect, but it gives a cinematic feel with a sinister undertone. The Helios 44M 58mm produces swirly bokeh, leading to fantastical, ethereal images.

Trioplan and Pentacon lenses add a soap bubble effect, which brings a playful look. Each lens has a different personality and its own ‘flaws’. When the light hits the optics to create an image, it produces blur and flare that changes the intensity of the colour and tone.

Discovering vintage lenses

I started using vintage lenses about three years ago after reading an article on creative bokeh. My first purchase was a Helios 44M 58mm from eBay. The Oxfam shop online is also a great place to buy rare and unusual lenses. I was already a fan of the Lensbaby range due to the dream-like effects they produce, but after seeing the swirly bokeh of the Helios, I just had to have one! Since then, vintage lenses have become quite an obsession, and I now have a sizeable collection.

Vintage favourites

My Helios 44M is the one I use most often, but I actually have three Helios lenses: a 44M 58mm in original condition and a 44mm and 85mm, both of which I have modified by reversing the front glass element. By doing this, I get an impressionistic swirl that generates depth and distortion – it’s a painterly effect. My anamorphic lens (a Sankor 16C) stretches the image and delivers an oval-shape bokeh that makes everything look strange and confusing. My Trioplan 50mm has soap bubble bokeh that is sharp and playful.

I also have a Pentacon 105mm that produces soap-like bokeh, but it’s a bit softer than the Trioplan. Others in my collection include a Jupiter 11 135mm, Industar-69 28mm and Dallmeyer 12 inch f/6 Popular Telephoto. My favourite camera/lens combination is a modified Helios with my Nikon D800E (although the Helios also works well on my Fujifilm X-T2.)

Buyer advice

If you’re looking to buy a vintage lens, do your research. Lots of advice is available via vintage lens groups on Facebook (I run a group called Modified Camera Lenses). In short, you want a lens with minimal (or preferably no) scratching and fungus. If you’re buying online, don’t be afraid to ask to see more pictures of the lens or details of where it might have been stored.

Adapters and getting started

Mounting a vintage lens to your camera is simple. With the help of an adapter, you can use them on countless brands and bodies. Be aware, though, that some lenses don’t work on full-frame cameras. Adapters are relatively cheap, but if you decide to mount a projection lens on your camera, you might need a focusing helicoid adapter – this is a metal lens-like device that has no glass inside and extends to two or three times its own length.

When you shoot with vintage lenses, you need to focus manually, which can be challenging. What’s more, if you modify lenses like I do, you need to throw everything you know about focusing out of the window! To get the best bokeh, you have to set the lens to a wide aperture. Throw an inverted lens into the mix and you soon learn that the only focus spot is in the centre of the lens.

To get around this, take two shots – one with the lens at f/2 and one at f/8 or f/12 – and combine them later. You could say vintage lenses would be better with autofocus and an aperture controlled via the camera, but it’s all part of their charm. If your camera offers focus peaking and focus magnification, this is a massive help, as it gives you a better idea of what to focus on.

Vintage lenses are fantastic at communicating a feeling, atmosphere or emotion. They have flaws and quirky focusing, and they create flare that most photographers would freak out about – but that’s what I like. I don’t want perfectly sharp images; I want to create something more. Vintage lenses help with this, as they tap into my imagination.

Weird Lens Guru Mathieu Stern

Mathieu Stern is a professional photographer and filmmaker. His passion for experimenting with vintage lenses has resulted in the nickname ‘weird lens guru’ on the internet. He hosts a YouTube channel and is a photography and Photoshop teacher in three Parisian design schools. www.mathieustern.com, Instagram: @mathieustern, YouTube: Mathieu Stern.

There’s something unique about most lenses made before 1900. Swirly bokeh, crazy colours and flare all add a charm to your images that modern lenses lack in their bid to produce a clinical, perfect image. The first vintage lens I owned was the one my father gave me with his 35mm camera. It was a 50mm f/2.8 from an unknown brand. Now, of course, I know it was a pretty bad lens, but it was my first step towards discovering something magical.

Vintage favourites

At the last count, I had more than 200 vintage and experimental lenses, so it’s hard to say which are my favourites. I do, however, have certain brands and lenses that I like more than others. Konica, Canon FD, Minolta and Pentax Takumar are all on this list. Most of my lenses come from eBay, yard sales or recommendations from family and friends. Now that I’ve got a large YouTube following, I also get sent lenses to review.

Buyer advice

If you’re in the market for a vintage or experimental lens, be aware that fungus can be cleaned, dirt and grease can be removed, but scratches or a bent helicoid are much bigger problems and would be a big no-no for me. On the plus side, I’ve bought many lenses showing signs of fungus for a fraction of the price and cleaned them up in less than ten minutes.

Choosing adapters

I shoot all of my experiments for YouTube on a Sony A7 III and A7 II. I have almost every adapter ever made for the Sony E-mount. As a result, I can attach almost any lens from any era to one of my cameras. If you like a brand, it’s a good idea to have a full set of lenses from the same era – that way you can maintain the same quality across all of your images.

I’ve tried many unusual bits of kit over the years. I own lenses designed for X-ray machines and medical cameras, for instance. One of the most unusual lenses I’ve tested was designed to be installed on a camera on board a space shuttle!

When it comes to buying adapters, avoid super-cheap ones – these can break quickly and even damage the sensor on your camera. A fair price for an adapter would be around the £20 mark. Before attaching a vintage lens to your camera, be aware of any potential weight issues – a very heavy or long lens can damage the mount on your digital camera, so in this instance, it’s a good idea to use a lens collar and tripod.

Getting started

Some people worry that there might be a steep learning curve when using vintage lenses, but like any lens, they are made of metal and glass – there is nothing magical or extra-difficult to understand. If you know how to focus manually, then you can use a vintage lens! Having said that, using a camera with focus peaking is very important, and image stabilisation is also good when you’re shooting videos with vintage lenses.

I like to shoot portraits, but you can shoot pretty much anything with a vintage lens – there are plenty of focal lengths to choose from. One of the greatest challenges is finding vintage and experimental lenses at a fair price: I started collecting when no one really cared about them, and I was picking them up for less than £10, but they are now becoming more expensive.

I don’t own any modern lenses, and I don’t feel like I’m missing out. Vintage lenses encourage me to be more experimental – I love the way they bend light, create crazy bokeh and produce truly unique images.

Videographer and Filmmaker Marc Sirisi

Marc Sirisi is a videographer/filmmaker for RV Films – a film production company based in Barcelona, which he set up with a colleague. Marc loves to experiment and has been using vintage lenses since the beginning of his journey with photography and now shoots commercial projects with them. Visit www.rvfilms.cat and Instagram: @marcsirisi.

It’s hard to describe what I like about vintage lenses, but when I shoot with them, I get the feeling that the pictures will be special in some way. Each lens offers something different: sometimes it’s unusual bokeh, sometimes it’s interesting colour tones, flare or contrast. Basically, it’s the joy of imperfection. As a portrait photographer, I feel that vintage lenses play a significant role in capturing the essence of a person. There is also a certain romance when you consider that you’re using a lens that is 30 years old or more and will have captured many moments and experiences over the years.

Going retro

My passion for photography only began a few years ago, but I was instantly drawn to the retro/film look – especially the bokeh. I was so used to seeing digital images that when I first saw the swirly bokeh and low contrast created by the Helios 44M 58mm it shocked me!
I knew I had to have one.

Growing a lens collection

The Helios was my first vintage lens. I now have eight more:

• Minolta MD Rokkor 45mm – lots of contrast and nervous bokeh
• Minolta MC Rokkor 55mm – very sharp, even wide open
• Minolta MC Rokkor-PG 58mm – optically very good with an almost creamy bokeh
• Minolta MC Tele Rokkor 135mm – sharp with good contrast
• Canon FD 50mm f/1.4 SSC – this was given to me by a relative, and I think it has some haze inside because the final image is too soft, so I’m saving it for a possible future project
• Canon FD 50mm – without haze! I like the contrast and colours of the FD series
• Canon FD 85mm f/1.2 L – my favourite
• Leica Macro Elmarit 60mm f/2.8 – which I bought a few days ago

The Canon FD 85mm f/1.2 L is attached to my camera most of the time – I love the IQ, sharpness, bokeh, colours, contrast and tones. My favourite combination of camera and lens is the Canon FD 85mm f/1.2 L with a Fujifilm GFX 50R.

Buyer advice

I buy most of my vintage lenses online from sites such as eBay and Wallapop. I like eBay because it’s reliable and you can find some rare lenses for sale. Wallapop is good because you can meet the owner and test the lens. Where possible, I’ll visit flea markets to get some good deals. When you’re buying a vintage lens, check that the aperture blades work properly, and look for fungus, haze and scratches, as well as checking the overall body condition.

Some old lenses are known to contain radioactive components, but I don’t have any of those. I have heard some people say the level of radioactivity is so small that it doesn’t pose a problem, and others who sound very alarmed by it. When you’re buying an adapter, read the reviews and make sure that it’s compatible with your camera. I bought a cheap adapter a while ago, and I had to keep tightening the screws – one day the lens almost fell on the floor.

Using a vintage lens

If you’re not used to shooting in manual, then using a vintage lens can be a challenge to start with. You have to accept (and embrace) imperfections. Vintage lenses encourage you to explore, and when I shoot, I’m not looking for a perfect image; my goal is to create a shot that gets the viewer’s attention and expresses an emotion.

Further reading

• Get great shots with vintage glass
• How to use classic lenses on modern cameras
• Vintage digital cameras you should actually buy
• How to focus manually

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The post The best vintage lenses to get the retro look appeared first on Amateur Photographer.

Look at any second-hand camera seller’s site and you’ll find a fair few cameras under $200 or £200, but not all of them will be worth buying. So, how do you decide which ones are worth buying? That’s where we come in – drawing on our experience of testing and reviewing all the major camera releases over the years, we’ve identified the ones that are still worth $200 / £200.

We’ve picked this amount because we think it’s the least you can spend on a camera that’s actually worth buying. For those with higher budgets, we also have guides to the best cameras under $300 / £300 and the best cameras under $500 / £500.

This guide focuses on digital cameras. You may have noticed that there are instant film cameras that can be bought for less than $200 / £200. We haven’t included them, as instant film shooting is quite a different discipline to digital photography, and since you have to factor in the ongoing cost of film, you’ll end up spending a lot more than $200 / £200 in the long run. If you are interested in pursuing instant film, we have a dedicated guide to the best instant film cameras and printers you can buy.

For useful tips on where to buy and what to look out for when buying a used camera, go to the end of this article.

Best cameras under $200 / £200: the quick list

Looking for the best deal on cameras under $200 / £200? Not only will you find the best second-hand cameras, but you’ll also find some of the best second-hand camera deals, as our ‘Buy now’ buttons are set to automatically take you to the best prices, from trusted retailers, plus you’ll also find a list of other retailers below each camera, so you can find the right deal for you.

• Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II – Buy now
• Canon EOS 7D – Buy now
• Sony Cyber-shot RX100 II – Buy now
• Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6 – Buy now
• Canon EOS 1200D / Rebel T5 – Buy now
• Olympus OM-D E-M5 – Buy now
• Nikon D5200 – Buy now
• Sony A5000 – Buy now
• Canon EOS M100 – Buy now
• Pentax K-50 – Buy now
• Kodak PixPro FZ45 – Buy now

Our guide includes cameras that are available in the US and the UK, with $200 / £200 as our rough guide. Bear in mind that prices and exchange rates do fluctuate in both territories and while we keep this guide regularly up to date, sometimes a camera will nudge over the $200 / £200 mark in one territory or another. In general, it won’t be too significant.

So, here is a quick rundown of the cameras we’ve included, along with links to get the best prices:

Best cameras under $200 / £200

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II (second hand body only)

At a glance:

• 16.1MP Four Thirds sensor
• ISO 100-25,600 (extended)
• 2.36-million-dot EVF
• 3in, 1.04m-dot fully articulated touchscreen
• 390g (body only)
• Re-sale price: approx. $199 / £199

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II is a great camera. A second-hand model in good condition will cost around £199. If you want to purchase a second-hand one in excellent condition, it will cost around £20 more – slightly pipping you over budget, unless you’re good at haggling!

To begin with, this camera combines a 16.1MP Four Thirds sensor with a TruePic VII image processor. It supports an ISO range of 100-25,600 and burst shooting at up to 8.5fps. The camera body has a robust and attractive design. It includes 5-axis in-body image stabilisation and a huge selection of MFT lenses are compatible. On the downside, it isn’t weather-sealed and lacks 4K video, but for £199 you can’t have everything!

Best for: Being an all-rounder budget camera

Canon EOS 7D (second hand body only)

At a glance:

• 18MP APS-C CMOS sensor
• ISO 100-12,800 (extended)
• 3in, 921k-dot fixed LCD screen
• Durable weather-sealed body
• Weight 820g
• Re-sale price: approx. $200 / £184

The Canon EOS 7D is an oldy but a goody, especially when you can get one second hand for £184 (the original RRP back in 2009 was £1,699)! The camera is now a little out-dated. It’s a bit noisy in low light compared with the newer models, but for under £200 you’re not going to get top of the range. You’ll still get plenty of camera for very little money. The Canon EOS 7D includes an 18MP APS-C CMOS sensor, ISO range up to 12800 and a durable weather-sealed body.

Back in 2020, we wrote a second-hand classic review of the Canon EOS 7D. Fast forward to today’s market, and we think this review holds just as much relevance.

Best for: Sports and wildlife photography

Sony Cyber-shot RX100 II (second hand)

At a glance:

• 20.2MP 1-inch CMOS sensor
• 28-100mm (equivalent) f/1.8-4.9 Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar T* lens
• ISO 100-25,600 extended
• Full HD 60p video
• Weight 281g
• Re-sale price: approx. $200 / £180

Sony’s RX100 range of premium compacts has been hugely successful, with the most recently released model being the RX100 Mark VII. This Mark II version is the most up-to-date you can get for under £200, and for that money, it’s worth considering. Costing £629 on release, the RX100 II features a 20MP 1-inch sensor with a back-illuminated design paired with a 28-100mm equivalent Zeiss-made lens that boasts a generous f/1.8 aperture at the wide end. All this in a body that’s still smaller and lighter than most compacts on the market. Not bad!

We published our Sony RX100 II review all the way back in 2013, and we gave it the full five stars. While you could probably find the original RX100 even cheaper on the second-hand market, there are a lot of quality-of-life improvements that make this one worth buying. Built-in Wi-Fi is a big one, as well as NFC (which was quite a novelty at the time), giving you plenty of connectivity options. The screen also tilts, making it easier to shoot from high and low angles.

Best for: Street photography and travelling light

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6 (second hand body only)

At a glance:

• 16.05-million-pixel Live MOS sensor
• 1.44-million-dot OLED EVF
• 3in free-angle LCD touchscreen
• NFC technology for fast Wi-Fi connectivity
• Full HD video recording
• ISO 160-12,800 (expandable to ISO 25,600)
• Re-sale price: approx. $199 / £154

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6 is a great camera for under $200 / £200 that can be used to shoot a variety of genres from portraits to wildlife. Its body weighs a mere 340g, meaning it’s lightweight and won’t cause any back or neck aches after using it all day.

We found the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G6 to excel in its autofocus system compared with other Micro Four Thirds cameras launched around the same time in 2013. We were also impressed with its features, such as Wi-Fi connectivity and remote shooting – perfect for wildlife enthusiasts.

However, the Full HD video isn’t that exciting in terms of what is possible by today’s standards. But, for those wanting to create fun online content, Full HD is plenty big enough.

Best for: Wildlife photography

Canon EOS 1200D / Rebel T5

At a glance:

• 18MP APS-C CMOS sensor
• ISO 100-6400 (exp. ISO 12,800)
• 3in LCD screen with 230,000 dots
• Full HD 1080p video
• 9-point AF system
• Re-sale price: approx. $170 / £144

The Canon EOS 1200D entered a crowded market of entry-level cameras on release in 2014. However, over time, its used price has come down to under $200 / £200, and it has started to look more enticing as an entry-level DSLR. It may not be flashy, but its Canon EF/EF-S mount opens you up to an incredibly well-stocked lens ecosystem, and the 18MP APS-C sensor delivers solid, reliable image quality.

For a DSLR, this is a pretty dinky camera, and is portable enough to carry around for day-to-day shooting. Its 9-point AF system is a little basic, and in our review, we were disappointed to see that the battery life had gone from 700-650 shots on the EOS 1100D to 500 shots. Though it’s important to remember this in context. It’s still better than a lot of mirrorless cameras, and these estimates do tend to be conservative.

Best for: Those who want an ultra-cheap DSLR

Olympus OM-D E-M5 (second hand body only)

At a glance:

• 16.1MP Four Thirds sensor
• 3in, 610,000-dot, tiltable LCD touchscreen
• 1.44-million-dot EVF
• Up to 9fps or 4.2fps with continuous AF
• Weight: 425g (including battery and card)
• Re-sale price: approx. $190 / £139

Over ten years later, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 is still a fantastic camera under $200 / £200, with 16.1MP Four Thirds image sensor that produces excellent images. It comes in a stylish-looking, weather-resistant, magnesium-alloy body. When the Olympus E-M5 was launched in 2012, the critics (us included) loved its retro compact design – it still has a lot of appeal. It’s also worth noting it was the first camera to be launched in the popular and well-regarded OM-D line.

Later models like the EM-5 II and EM-5 III do boast higher specs. However, if this aspect isn’t important to you, it’s a great camera for under $200 / £200.

Best for: Those who want a small interchangeable-lens camera

Nikon D5200 (second hand body only)

At a glance:

• 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor
• ISO 100-6400 (extended to ISO 25,600)
• Articulated 3in, 921,000-dot LCD screen
• 39-point AF system
• 2016-pixel RGB metering sensor
• Re-sale price: approx. $180 / £199

When this camera launched in 2013, it retailed at £720. Today, a second-hand model in good condition can be picked up for just under £200 – that’s a great deal! Spec-wise, this camera can hold its head up high. The 24.1MP image sensor, 39-point AF system and ISO sensitivity range are all still impressive for a camera of this age.

In our 2013 review of the Nikon D5200, we gave it a good 4 stars. We found it performed solidly across all of our tests and criteria. So, if you’re a beginner to photography and want to make a little step up without splashing out on a new model, this one is well worth considering.

Best for: Beginners who want to learn fast

Sony A5000

At a glance:

• 20.1MP APS-C sensor
• ISO 100-16,000
• Articulated 3in LCD with 460,800 dots
• Burst mode: 12fps
• Full HD video
• Re-sale price: approx. £159 / $249

The Sony Alpha 5000 represented a historic step for Sony. It was an NEX camera without the NEX branding, as the firm stepped fully into the Alpha line that would go on to such great success. And, while these days pro-spec full-frame Alpha cameras run up prices in the thousands, this humble APS-C shooter can be picked up for around $200 / £200 or less on the used market.

So, what do you get for this minimal outlay? While the Sony A5000 isn’t going to measure up to the top-line mirrorless models of today, it has a decent spec that will get the job done in most shooting situations. The 20.1MP APS-C sensor is a good size and resolution for most purposes, and the burst options are quite impressive. Also, Sony’s E-mount lens range has come a long way since the release of the A5000, and these days there are tons of fantastic lenses to choose from, including plenty from third-party manufacturers like Sigma, Tamron and Samyang.

Best for: Enthusiasts

Canon EOS M100 (second hand body only)

At a glance:

• 24.2MP 22.3 x 14.9mm CMOS image sensor
• Lens Mount: EF-M (EF and EF-S lenses compatible via Mount adapter EF-EOS M)
• Burst mode: 6.1fps
• Dual Pixel CMOS AF
• ISO 100 – 25600
• Movie: Full HD – 1920 x 1080, 60p
• Re-sale price: approx. $199 / £179

The M series from Canon never made the impactful impression that the EOS R series models subsequently did, but there’s still a great bargain under £200 to be had on the second-hand market. The Canon EOS M100 was released in 2017, and a second-hand one now costs around £180.

When we reviewed the Canon EOS M100 back in 2017, we found it to be aimed at beginners and novices who want a no-fuss operating system. It has good wireless connectivity and a responsive touchscreen control. It’s also well built and compact for an entry-level camera. On the downside, it doesn’t support a viewfinder and has very basic controls.

Annoyingly, the Canon M system only takes EF-M lenses or EF-S lenses with a mount adapter, so keep this in mind.

Best for: Beginners

Pentax K-50 (second hand body only)

At a glance:

• 16.28-million-pixel, APS-C-sized sensor
• 81 weather seals
• 100% optical viewfinder
• 3in, 921,000-dot LCD screen
• ISO 100-51,200
• Drive Mode: 6fps for approx 30 large/fine JPEG files or 8 raw images
• Re-sale price: approx. $195 / £169

We all know Pentax has not made as much impression in the DSLR market as Canon or Nikon. However, that’s not to say it hasn’t made some fantastic cameras and the K-50 deserves to make this best budget cameras list.

When we reviewed it back in 2013, we gave it a massive 5 stars. The image quality was top notch and easily matched its rivals at the time. The body was also well built and fully weather-sealed, providing peace of mind to those out in the field. So, if you’re after a decent DSLR that will help you expand your photography, a second-hand Pentax K-50 is a great option.

Best for: Hobby photographers

Kodak PixPro FZ45

At a glance:

• 16MP 1/2.3inch CMOS sensor
• 4x optical zoom, f/3.0-6.6, 27-108mm equivalent
• 2x AA batteries
• LCD screen: 2.7inch screen
• Full HD 30p video recording
• Price: £95 / $99, available in white, black, red

It was a bit of a surprise when Kodak (or to be more accurate, Kodak licensee JK Imaging) released a clutch of new compact and bridge cameras in 2023. Surely nobody was making cheap point-and-shoots anymore? Indeed, they were. But while the PixPro FZ45 is not going to blow anyone away with its image quality, it’s a perfectly decent compact that’s available for a very cheap price and makes it onto our list of best cameras under £200.

Firstly, running on common AA batteries, the PixPro FZ45 is easy to set up. It also benefits from a 4x zoom lens, giving you a reasonable amount of versatility when shooting, and its light weight of 117g means you can carry it everywhere with you. As we found in our review, the image quality it produces is fine, if nothing to write home about, and there is even a Manual mode for taking control of exposure settings.

Read our full Kodak PixPro FZ45 review.

Best for: Those who want a new camera, rather than second-hand

Where can I find the best cameras under $200 / £200?

Remember, when it comes to buying second hand, you should only do so from a trusted dealer.

Recommended second-hand dealers to buy from include:

• Wex Photo Video
• Park Cameras
• Clifton Cameras
• MPB
• Castle Cameras
• FFordes
• London Camera Exchange
• CameraWorld
• Worldwide Camera Exchange
• Mifsuds
• Grays of Westminster (for Nikon)
• BH Photo Video (USA)
• Adorama (USA)

How to choose the best camera under $200/£200

When purchasing a second-hand camera, first check the exterior condition. Look for marks and scratches but remember, cosmetic damage is often nothing to worry about. A solid image sensor and working mechanics are more important. Most cameras from a trusted dealer will come with a 6-month warranty, which will give you greater peace of mind – this is probably something you won’t get on eBay.

Secondly, check the shutter count if you’re purchasing a second-hand DSLR. An entry-level DSLR will comfortably shoot around 100,000, mid-range 150,000, and with a professional DSLR 300,000+. They’ll often last beyond these figures, but it’s a good idea to get a rough idea about their longevity. With mirrorless cameras, the shutter count is less important – they don’t have the mechanics of a physical shutter to worry about.

Should I buy a camera on the grey market?

If you shop around online, you’ll often notice there are a few far cheaper models sold from a company you’ve probably never heard of. Usually, these are grey products – they’re probably legitimate cameras, but they could cause you potential issues. You’re unlikely to purchase under warranty, and you may end up paying for import duty or VAT on arrival. So, that ‘cheap camera’ may end up being more expensive than you initially calculated.

Just remember: if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is!

Text by Claire Gillo, with contributions from Jon Stapley.

Are you looking to expand on your photography kit without breaking the bank? Here are some other articles for you:

• How to check a second-hand lens for faults
• Best cameras under $300 / £300
• Best cameras under $500 / £500

If you have more money to spend, then why not have a look at the best cameras available for under $1000/£1000?

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The post Best cameras under $200 in 2025 – spend less, shoot more appeared first on Amateur Photographer.

What’s worse, smartphones have a much swifter release cycle than cameras. So that top-line model you splashed the cash on usually only stays current for around 12 months. However, the flipside of that is if you’re prepared to wait and pick up last year’s phone (or older), then you can get a much better deal without having to compromise too much on hardware and features.

To save even more money, it pays to look at the second-hand market. You might be surprised at the bargains you can find. With lots of people keen to ditch their existing phones as soon as new one comes out, you’ll often find a flurry of availability close to release dates. On occasion, you might even find this year’s current models sold on quickly by those who get bored easily!

By buying second-hand, you’re not just saving cash – you’re also helping to save the planet. Well, a bit. Rather than an electronic device lingering in a drawer, or worse, ending up in landfill, keeping them in circulation rather than adding to the billions of brand new models sold can only be a good thing.

If you have your own old gear lying around waiting to be traded in, you can find second-hand phones via private sellers on eBay, Facebook Marketplace and Gumtree, but we’d always exercise caution when dealing with this kind of outlet. For more peace of mind, you can try going directly to the manufacturer, or second-hand retailers such as Music Magpie or Envirofone. Even Amazon sells second-hand now too.

There’s a lot to take in when it comes to choosing the best smartphone, never mind adding navigating around second-hand. That is where we come in. I’ve selected some of the best older models that you can pick up second-hand right now, but you’ll also find some tips on what to look for when shopping for used models. 

Quick list

Looking for the best deal on premium camera phones? Not only will you find the best used camera phones, but you’ll also find some of the best used camera phone deals, as our ‘Buy now’ buttons are setup to automatically take you to the best prices, from trusted retailers, plus you’ll also find a list of other retailers below each phone, so you can find the right deal for you.

Best used smartphones under $800/£800

• iPhone 14 Pro Max – Buy now
• Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra – Buy now

Best used smartphones under $500/£500

• Honor Magic 5 Pro – Buy now
• iPhone 12 Pro Max – Buy now
• Google Pixel 7 Pro – Buy now
• Samsung S22 Ultra – Buy now
• Xiaomi 13 Pro – Buy now
• Samsung S21 Ultra – Buy now
• OPPO Reno 8 Pro – Buy now

Best used smartphones under $300/£300

• Google Pixel 6 Pro – Buy now
• Google Pixel 6a – Buy now
• Oppo Find X3 Pro – Buy now
• Huawei P30 Pro – Buy now

Best used smartphones under $800/£800

iPhone 14 Pro Max

Price at launch: $1099/£1099 (256GB model)
Typical used prices:$520-$770/£560-£670 (256GB model) 

iPhones tend to hold their value much better than their Android counterparts, so you’ll never see the biggest savings when it comes to Apple devices. However, you’ll still save a hefty chunk of change compared to the latest model, with second-hand prices of the 2022 iPhone 14 Pro Max being as cheap as $520/£560 in some places. You’ll likely also find that you’ll get a decent price for it should you decide to sell it on again at some point, too.

With the iPhone 14 Pro Max, you get a triple-lens setup, that includes an ultra-wide lens, a standard lens and a 3x telephoto lens. The newer iPhone 16 Pro Max also has a 5x lens – but I found that I preferred the 3x option anyway, so it’s no loss not to have it. Otherwise, much of the specification has remained the same, or seen only a gentle upgrade – so paying a premium just to have the latest isn’t strictly necessary. Image quality between the two is very similar, too.

If you prefer a smaller phone, it’s worth noting that the standard sized iPhone 14 Pro has the same camera specification as its bigger brother, but you’ll get it at an even cheaper price ($465-$687 / £500-£620 typical prices). 

The native camera app for the iPhone 14 Pro Max includes features such as Night mode and Portrait mode, and while it doesn’t have the automatic portrait recognition feature as found on the iPhone 15 Pro and 16 Pro series, it’s still a neat and sensible app to get your head around.

For the cheapest prices, you’ll be looking at something in “Fair” condition – which usually means that it works perfectly well but it may have some visible wear and tear on the body. Those with more pristine casings will set you back closer to £900, but, considering that’s still a saving of £200 on the latest model, it’s a still a good deal. 

Try stepping back even further to the iPhone 13 Pro Max if your budget is tighter still – there are deals starting at £450.

Read our full iPhone 14 Pro review here.

Also consider: 

• iPhone 14 Pro
• iPhone 13 Pro/Max
• iPhone 12 Pro/ Max

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

Price at launch: $1199 / £1249 (256GB model)
Typical used prices: $500-$650 / £440-£499 (256GB model)

Stepping back two generations from the latest Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra, we’ve got the S23 Ultra. Due to how quickly prices drop for Samsung models compared to iPhones, you can already pick this up for around half the price it would have been at new, showing things do indeed come to those who wait. 

And the better news is that the S23 Ultra is still one of the best smartphones you can currently buy, regardless of it not being current. It boasts a quad-camera setup, with one of them being a whopping 200MP, alongside an ultra-wide and two different zoom lenses – one offering 3x and another offering 10x. Other high-end specifications include 8K video, a fantastic display and a super-fast processor.

More importantly, of course, we found it delivered fantastic image quality in a wide range of different shooting situations. It’s also got a nicely comprehensive shooting app, with an array of different modes and functions. Another neat feature of this series is the included stylus, which you can use to remotely trigger the shutter release – useful for group selfies and so on.

Low light and portrait shooting is very good, while there’s an array of AI features that make it a fantastic all-rounder. Samsung recently rolled out a firmware upgrade that brings it in line with its current model, so you shouldn’t necessarily feel short-changed by opting for older.

The big screen (6.8-inches) won’t be to everybody’s tastes. If you prefer something smaller, consider the Samsung S23 – it doesn’t have same camera setup as the S23 Ultra, but it’s still very good, and at 6.1-inches, it won’t be such a problem for your pocket. It’s also cheaper. 

If you don’t mind the larger sized models, then you can also consider the S22 Ultra and the S21 Ultra. They’re now three-four generations old but make for perfectly fine camera phones, with prices starting at as little as £300.

Read our full review of the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra here.

Also consider: 

• Samsung Galaxy S23
• Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra
• Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra

Best used smartphones under $500/£500

Honor Magic 5 Pro

Price at launch: £949
Typical used prices: £315-£450

 There’s a decent reduction available for the Magic 5 Pro – though the bargain is not quite so great as with some of the other flagships here. 

Still, you get a great performing device for a good chunk off its original price. It is two generations back from the current model, the Honor Magic 7 Pro, but it still boasts some headline specifications to be proud of. 

That includes a triple camera array, with all three having 50MP and comprising of a wide, ultrawide and telephoto option. It’s also got a 6.8” screen, which is what we see elsewhere on the likes of the Samsung S23/S24 Ultra range and is great for looking at your images either in composition or playback.

PGT-N19 · f/3 · 1/1425s · 14.92mm · ISO50

I think this is also one of the most stylish-looking models in our round-up here, with an attractive and unusual design compared to most – if that’s something that appeals to you it might be worth paying a little more for.

There’s an easy-to-use native camera app with an array of different shooting modes that all perform well. The general image quality I found to be very pleasing on the whole. 

Read our full Honor Magic 5 Pro review here.

Also consider: 

• Honor Magic 6 Pro
• Honor Magic 5 Lite
• Honor Magic 4 Pro

iPhone 12 Pro Max

Price at launch: $1,099 / £1,099
Typical used prices: $300-$500 / £350-490

Some hefty savings can be made on a refurbished iPhone. They tend to hold their value much better than Android equivalents, so going back two or more generations is where you’ll find the best savings.

The latest model is the iPhone 16 Pro Max, so going for the iPhone 14 Pro Max, is a good option – but it’s the iPhone 12 Pro we’d recommend for those on a strict budget.

The iPhone 12 Pro Max has a triple-lens setup: an ultra-wide lens, a standard lens and a short telephoto. The smaller iPhone 12 Pro also has a triple-lens array, but the telephoto lens is slightly shorter, and the sensor behind the main lens is a little smaller. It’s still a good option as a phone of more manageable size.

The native camera app includes features such as Night mode and Portrait mode, but there’s not much in the way of manual control. Luckily there are dozens of apps you can download if that’s something you really want. The cheapest prices for the iPhone 12 Pro Max come from devices found in ‘fair’ condition, rising up to around $600 / £475 if you pick one up directly from Apple and get a full 12-month refurbished warranty. That’s still a whopper of a saving compared to the latest model, which will set you back $ 999 / £1,199.

Also consider:

• iPhone 13 Pro Max
• iPhone 12
• iPhone 11 Pro

Google Pixel 7 Pro

Price at launch: £850
Typical used prices: $250-$330 / £270-£380

You can find the Pixel 7 Pro at incredibly cheap prices on the second-hand market. It’s almost certainly true that it’s better than most similarly priced brand-new budget or mid-range phones, too.

It was a flagship at launch, and as such we found it had excellent image quality – so much so that it can easily compete with the latest competitors, too, and isn’t too far behind its direct replacement, the Pixel 8 Pro, either.

We’ve got a triple lens setup, including two high resolution (50MP and 48MP) sensors comprising wide, ultrawide and telephoto. There’s also other great features such as a bright and detailed screen, and a macro mode that made its debut for the Pixel series with this model. 

The camera app is neat and streamlined, and although there has been some new functionality added to the Pixel 8 Pro, there’s not a huge step change between the two, while image quality from the new model is better – but not enough to scoff at the huge savings available here.

Pixel 7 Pro · f/2.2 · 1/8s · 1.95mm · ISO566

In fairness, we’ve already seen the price of the Pixel 8 Pro drop dramatically – even at brand new it’s £300 cheaper than when it first went on sale, but if you could get something for under £270 then you’d be doing very well. Expect conditions to be on the “fair” side only for that price – but you can get “excellent” condition devices for as little as £331 too, so it’s worth shopping around.

For those that want something smaller, there’s the standard Pixel 7, which has a 6.3” screen, compared to the 6.7” screen of the 7 Pro, but you’ll be sacrificing the telephoto camera – perhaps this is no big deal if you’re not likely to use it all that much anyway (it’s the one I use least on any smartphone). Pick up Pixel 7s for as little as £225 second-hand. You can also get some of Google’s budget options second-hand, even the newest models, with options such as the Pixel 8a available for around £379.

Read our full Google Pixel 7 Pro review here

Also consider: 

• Pixel 7
• Pixel 8a

Samsung S22 Ultra

• Price at launch: $1,199 / £1,149
• Typical used prices: $320-$560 / £320-500

The Samsung S22 Ultra was among the best smartphones released in 2022, if not the best. However, with prices starting at $1,199 / £1149, it was an expensive buy. But it has recently seen a price drop following the Samsung S23 Ultra and can be bought for prices starting at half its original price.

In our Samsung S23 Ultra vs Samsung S22 Ultra comparison article found that the S22 Ultra still holds its ground against the larger, newer phone, despite the S23 Ultra’s 200MP main sensor and 10x zoom. The S22 Ultra has an excellent quad camera setup that includes a 108MP main camera, an ultra wide camera and telephoto camera but despite a well-featured native camera app, doesn’t have a macro mode. Video-wise, this smartphone can shoot up to 8K video.

Read our Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra review.

Also consider

• Samsung Galaxy S22

Xiaomi 13 Pro

Price at launch: $845 / £1099
Typical used prices: $300-$350 / £220-£470

Now we’ll take a look at some of the smaller names in the market. Sometimes these devices can be picked up very cheaply as they don’t have the same appeal as the bigger brands. However, since fewer of them make it to market in the first place, it can often be tricky to get the very best deals.

By my reckoning, the very best smartphone for photographers at the moment is the Xiaomi 15 Ultra. But, it is a staggering $999/£1299. If you don’t want to part with that kind of cash, one alternative is the Xiaomi 13 Pro models also available second-hand, priced at around $320/£380, and also represents great value.

You get a triple-lens setup, which have been co-engineered with Leica. We don’t need to tell you that Leica knows what it’s doing when it comes to quality lenses, but needless to say it’s a very good performer. There’s a wide, ultrawide and a floating telephoto lens which doubles up to be used for excellent macro performance. You also get a 32MP selfie camera, which is pretty rare among even flagship smartphones. 

I was impressed with image quality across a range of scenarios, making it a strong competitor for the likes of the iPhones, Pixels and Samsung models also mentioned here. If you can get it for under $320/£300, then it’s a great deal.

If you want to stretch yourself further, the Xiaomi 13 Ultra is also available, and is even better. You should find one second hand for around £430 upwards. With that, you get a quad-camera setup, with all four being 50MP – something that we don’t generally see anywhere else. You also get a 32MP front camera again. Just like its successor, the 13 Ultra has a 1-inch type sensor, meaning you generally get superior image quality compared with the smaller sensors in the rest of the phones mentioned in this piece. 

Read our full Xiaomi 13 Pro review here.

Also consider: 

• Xiaomi 13 Ultra
• Xiaomi 12 Pro

Samsung S21 Ultra

• Price at launch: $1,199 / £1,149
• Typical used prices: $240 – $320/ £220-390

The S21 Ultra is now four generations old. The S25 Ultra is now available, which goes some way to explaining the bargain prices you can find this one-time flagship model for.

We are big fans of the Samsung S series range, and the S21 Ultra impressed us hugely when it first appeared on the market. It features a four-camera setup, giving you a range of lenses from 13mm up to 240mm in equivalent focal length. It also boasts a 108-megapixel main sensor, and has a well-featured native camera app.

Being able to pick up a once class-leading smartphone such as this for under $250 / £300 is a fantastic deal, especially if you can find one which comes with a retailer warranty.

Read our original review of the Samsung S21 Ultra

Also consider:

• Samsung Note 20 Ultra

Best used smartphones under $300/£300

Oppo Reno 8 Pro

Price at launch: £549
Typical used prices: £175-£225

Here’s another model that is available at proper bargain prices – not a surprise considering it started off at an affordable price from new in the first place. Still, I was able to find some for close to £200, with only a small bump in cost for those in “excellent” condition.

Now, as you might expect for that price, you don’t get the best camera setup in this group, but what you do get performs pretty well. There’s a 50MP main camera, which is joined by an 8MP ultrawide camera, and a 2MP macro camera. The front camera is 32MP, which is pretty good going for a budget device.

As with most Android phones, the native camera app interface is intuitive and easy to use, but also has a good range of additional options to choose from. Specialist modes, such as Night and Portrait, put in a pretty pleasing performance. It’s fair to say however that while the main 50MP camera delivers very good images, the other two don’t quite stack up – but if you’re looking for a total bargain you should be prepared for such compromises.

The selfie camera though puts in an excellent performance, so if that’s something you see yourself shooting a lot of (and why not!), then it could be worth considering for that alone. 

Alternatively, you might be able to find newer models at a similar price, such as the Oppo Reno 11 Pro, or the Oppo Find X5 Pro at around the £250 mark second-hand too, which is worth looking out for – especially the latter, which we found to be very impressive.

Read our full Oppo Reno 8 Pro review.

Also consider: 

• Oppo Find X5 Pro
• Oppo Reno 11 Pro

Google Pixel 6 Pro

• Price at launch: $899 / £849
• Typical used prices: $170-250 / £170-245

Google’s Pixel phones always impress with high-quality imagery and a straightforward and easy-to-use app (although we’d like to see some kind of manual mode, please). You only have to go back one generation with the Pixel range to pick up something at an excellent price, with 2021’s Pixel 6 Pro available for as little as $230 / £250.

For your money, you get a triple-lens set-up, which includes a 50-megapixel main camera, as well as super-wide and telephoto (4x zoom) options. The 6 Pro delivers excellent pictures in a range of situations, particularly excelling in low light. Although it’s now been surpassed by the Pixel 7 Pro, most average users are unlikely to be able to spot too much of a difference between the two, making the saving even more tempting. Look for the standard Pixel 6 if your budget is even tighter.

Read our original review of the Google Pixel 6 Pro

Also consider:

• Google Pixel 6
• Google Pixel 5

Google Pixel 6a

• Price at launch: $314/£299
• Typical used prices: $120-180/£120-200

If you don’t need all the power of the Google Pro range, this is an excellent used budget choice – we named it one of our best budget smartphones after all.

Shop around and you can find it for around $200 which makes the Pixel 6a something of a bargain. The latest model in the line up is the Pixel 8, that sells around £380 with features like Best Take, Magic Editor, and Audio Magic Eraser, but if you shop around you can pick up the Pixel 7 Pro for under $350/£300.

Key specifications include a 12MP ultra-wide camera, f/2.2, 17mm equivalent, a 12MP wide camera, f/1.7, with optical image stabilisation, 27mm equivalent, and a 6.1inch OLED screen (2400×1080 pixels). So, if you can live without the Pixel 6’s 48MP camera with larger sensor and additional AI “motion” mode, the Pixel 6a is a very sound choice.

After all, most of the key photography features and image-processing algorithms remain the same for both models, with the Pixel 6a also coming with intelligent AI features including a ‘magic eraser’. This makes it a lot easier to remove unwanted objects from images, without having to faff about in Photoshop or a similar image-editing package.

Picture quality is very good considering the price, and although low-light performance isn’t as good as the Pixel 6 owing to the smaller sensor, it should be perfectly acceptable for many situations unless you are a compulsive pixel peeper.

You can also record video up to 4K resolution, and up to 60fps, with effective image stabilisation and decent low-light performance. There are also time-lapse, and slow-motion video options, with up to 4x and 8x slow-motion available, albeit at a reduced resolution. All in all, a powerful package considering the price and ‘budget’ classification.

• Google Pixel 5
• Oppo Find X3 Pro

Read our original review of the Google Pixel 6a

Oppo Find X3 Pro

• Price at launch: $1,374 / £1,099
• Typical used prices: $200-280 / £160-£235

Another manufacturer that has been making waves lately is Oppo. The Find X3 Pro had a very high price-tag at launch, but it can now be picked up a couple of years later for as little as a third of the price, making it a bit of a bargain for the quality it provides.

The rear of the camera sees a triple-lens set-up, with one being a ‘standard’ lens, another being ultra-wide and finally a telephoto option. There’s a macro/close-up lens for picking out details in the admittedly slightly strange ‘microscope’ mode – you can place the phone on top of your subject to record it.

Overall, image quality is very good, with Night mode putting in a great performance. The native app has a range of functions, including an ‘Expert’ mode, which allows you to record in raw format and alter settings.

Also consider

• Oppo Reno 7 Pro
• Oppo Find X2 Pro

Huawei P30 Pro

• Price at launch: $899 / £899
• Typical used prices: $190-300/ £145-320

At one time, Huawei was the manufacturer to beat when it came to excellent cameras on smartphones. Its demise at the hands of a ban on newer devices accessing the Google Play store means that you’ll need to go older if you want to pick up something that’ll work in the way you expect it to.

The P30 Pro was the last of Huawei’s models to be able to access the Play store, and equally as importantly, it was capable of producing excellent photos and videos, meaning it still stands up very well today. It has a triple-lens array on the back, including a standard, ultrawide and a telephoto lens.

Night mode is excellent, while the native camera app is very well-featured. Considering you can pick one up for under $200 / £200 if you shop around, it’s an absolute bargain and it still gives the latest models a run for their money.

Also consider

• Huawei P20 Pro
• Huawei Mate 20 Pro

Where to find second-hand smartphones

Make sure you take a good look around different options for finding used smartphones. That way, you’ll be able to compare prices to make sure you’re getting a good dealer. You might find you get a better “deal” from private sellers, but make sure you do your homework so you don’t end up with a dud. Take a look at our top tips for staying safe when buying, but here’s some places you can look at.

• Backmarket
• Amazon
• Mazuma Mobile
• Music Magpie
• Envirofone
• CEX
• Network providers (e.g. EE, o2, Vodafone, Three, Giffgaff)
• Manufacturers (e.g. Apple, Samsung, Google)
• eBay (buyer beware)
• Gumtree (buyer beware)
• Facebook marketplace (buyer beware)

Second-hand vs refurbished: are they the same?

It’s important to note that second-hand and refurbished aren’t interchangeable terms. Second-hand generally means buying directly from the previous owner, via online auction websites like eBay. While you can sometimes find great deals doing this, the risk is greater as you won’t be covered by additional warranties, nor the same legal guarantees as when buying from a reputable firm.

Refurbished phones are still second-hand, but are bought from a manufacturer, retailer or official reseller. These phones will usually have been assessed by an expert before sale, given a condition rating (for example ‘like new’) and often come with an extended warranty. Some refurbished models are restored to the point that you’d never know it had a previous owner. You should also expect to have all the correct accessories supplied with a refurbished phone.

The trade-off for this is – usually – a higher price. But, as a rule, we’d suggest spending a little more for a high-quality product. Refurbished phones purchased from a retailer are covered in the UK by the Consumer Rights Act 2015. This allows 30 days to return the phone if it turns out to be of unsatisfactory quality. On top of that, if the phone develops a fault within six months, the retailer must prove it wasn’t there when it was bought. 

Buying second-hand from private sellers (i.e. individuals on eBay) doesn’t carry the same protection. A listing can’t be misleading (for example claiming the phone will switch on when it doesn’t) – but you don’t have the six-month ‘fault’ window. In either case, the manufacturer warranty (usually 12-24 months) may still apply if the device you have bought is younger than that.

Our 3 top tips for buying used smartphones:

1. Opt for manufacturer support

Make sure any model you buy is still supported by the manufacturer. That probably won’t be a problem if you only go back one, or even two, generations, but older smartphones eventually stop being supported. This can leave you prone to security issues, but it can also affect usability if you can’t get the latest operating system. Check the manufacturer’s website for a list of currently supported devices. 

2. Choose unlocked

Choose ‘unlocked’ models if you can. This means they aren’t tied to a particular network provider, allowing you to use it with your existing contract. Alternatively, you could look for those that are locked to the one you’re already on – sometimes you’ll get a bargain that way. 

3. Check batteries

Older models which have been very heavily used might have batteries that don’t last very well. You can try to find out if the battery has been replaced – or – if it’s possible to replace it yourself if you find it’s not holding charge. 

Online marketplace tips:

Use PayPal

It’s almost certainly a bad idea to hand over large sums of cash for a second-hand device, especially to strangers. Use PayPal or your credit card for protection from potentially dubious online operators. 

Check private sellers

Make sure you’re vigilant when dealing with any private seller. Check the seller rating, examine the listing closely for details about condition, and be sure to ask question if something doesn’t seem right, or a key piece of information is missing.

Avoid generic pictures

Look closely at a listing’s picture. Is the seller using “generic” pictures readily available from the manufacturer’s website, or do they look like genuine images? If it’s the former it could indicate a problem with the smartphone – or it could potentially not exist at all. Look for pictures which show the device working (screen switched on too)

Be wary of cosmetic damage

Pay attention to information about any cosmetic damage. It might be fine, but it could be something which affects image quality – such as a scratch across the lens – so it’s something to be mindful of.

Check warranties and repairs

Is the original warranty still in date? If the phone you’re buying isn’t too old – it might be. Also ask the seller if they’ve made any replacements or repairs while it was in their possession.

Scrutinise price

Is the price too good to be true? Compare any model against other similar models in the same condition. If the one you’ve seen is significantly cheaper and it’s not obvious why, be cautious. 

Tips for buying from retail shops:

Go for best you can afford

The condition rating of a device should be noted. Always go for the best you can afford, but cosmetic damage is something that should be considered if it has no impact on the image quality. Anything with a defective battery is worth considering if you can replace it easily or cheaply.

Ask for additional guarantees

Can you get an additional guarantee or warranty? This is why it can be wise to spend a bit more money and get something from a specialist retailer, rather than a private seller, as this extra peace of mind can come with what you’re buying.

Now you know the best used camera phones for photography, check out our guide to the best camera phone accessories and best camera phone tripods and mounts.

Related articles:

• The best smartphone apps for photography
• iPhone vs Android: Which is better for photography?
• How to take amazing portraits on a smartphone
• Using smartphones for street photography
• Opinion: Cameras will always be better than smartphones

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The post Best used smartphones to buy right now appeared first on Amateur Photographer.

The best second-hand cameras can offer incredible bang for your buck. We know not everyone has the budget for the latest and greatest professional models, but many photographers don’t want to have to make do with entry-level cameras either. Second-hand cameras offer the best of both worlds.

You have to be realistic when shopping second-hand and understand you won’t get cutting-edge features and the highest-resolution sensors. That’s why it pays to shop smart, invest in features you care about, and compromise on ones you don’t. We’ve put together this guide to make the process a little easier. Here, you’ll find a comprehensive list of what we reckon are the best second-hand cameras for a range of budgets. We’ve got a mix of beginner-friendly models and some originally pitched at professional photographers. One thing they’ve all got in common – they can be picked up for a fantastic price!

New to shopping for second-hand cameras? Don’t fret – we’ll take a look through the key things to watch out for. You can also scroll to the bottom of this article for tips on how to be smart when shopping second-hand – what to look for, what to avoid, and how to know when you’re being sold a dud. You’ll likely need to buy your lens separately, so check out our guide to the best second-hand lenses too. Need something ultra-cheap? Take a look at the AP team’s personal recommendations of our favourite cameras for less than £100.

Our quick list to the best second-hand cameras

Best second-hand entry-level cameras under £200 / $200

• Nikon D5100
• Canon EOS 600D
• Sony Alpha 5000

Second-hand mirrorless bargains under £350 / $350

• Olympus OM-D E-M5
• Sony Alpha 6000
• Fujifilm X-T10

Best second-hand cameras for enthusiasts under £400 / $400

• Fujifilm X-Pro1
• Pentax K-3

Best full-frame second-hand cameras under £400 / $400

• Canon EOS 6D
• Nikon D600
• Sony Alpha 7

Best entry-level second-hand cameras under £200 / $200

Nikon D5100 (with 18-55mm VR lens)

At a glance:

• Price £154 / $169 body only
• Sensor 16.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor
• Sensitivity ISO 100-6400 (ISO 25,600 extended)
• Continuous shooting 4fps
• Video 1080p Full HD video at 30fps
• Rear display 3in, 921k-dot vari-angle LCD
• Viewfinder Pentamirror, 95% coverage at 0.78x

Upon its release in 2011, the Nikon D5100 was positioned as an upper entry-level DSLR for those looking for something a little more advanced than the more basic D3100. While the D5100 undoubtedly shows its age now in terms of its core hardware, it remains a practical and easy-to-use camera that’s capable of great image quality. Better still, while the D5100 and 18-55mm kit lens package would have cost around £750 at the time of its launch, second-hand camera bodies in ‘good’ condition can now be picked up for as little as £109 from the likes of MPB.com and other reputable second-hand retailers. Add an 18-55mm kit zoom, and you’ll still get plenty of change from £200, making it highly affordable and great value.

The D5100 is built around a 16.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor and Nikon’s EXPEED 2 image processor – the same components found inside the much more advanced and expensive D7000 released in 2011 that went on to win numerous ‘camera of the year’ awards. The point we’re trying to make here is that while the D5100’s 16MP resolution might seem a little lacking compared to the 24MP APS-C sensors that are common to many contemporary DSLRs (including the D5100’s direct descendant – the D5600), the overall image quality is still very good.

Autofocus and metering

Elsewhere, the D5100 is equipped with an 11-point phase-detection AF module, arranged in a diamond formation across the viewfinder with one cross-type sensor in the middle. Again, while this might seem a little dated next to the 39-point system offered by the D5600, the D5100’s autofocus system is still effective and fast enough in most situations. One other thing to bear in mind is that the D5100 doesn’t have a built-in AF motor, which means only AF-S and AF-I lenses will focus automatically when mounted to it – other lens types will need to be manually focused. In addition, the D5100 isn’t compatible with Nikon’s recent AF-P lens range.

Metering is handled via a 420-pixel metering system, which we found to produce consistently accurate results. Overall image quality is very good, with the D5100 providing a range of JPEG sizes and quality settings, alongside a range of individual Picture Control settings that determine how your images are processed in-camera. More-advanced users can, of course, record images as lossless 14-bit raw files and process them to their own specifications in Lightroom or similar.

Screen and viewfinder

In terms of shooting modes, the D5100 comes equipped with the full PASM quartet, giving users the choice of Program, Aperture-priority, Shutter-priority and Manual modes. Point-and-shoot duties are catered for via a fully Automatic mode, backed up by a selection of individual Scene modes. Last but not least, the D5100 also offers a range of digital filters that can be applied to give your images a unique look – you’ll find these under the Effects option on the mode dial.

The back of the camera is equipped with a vari-angle 3in/921k-dot LCD display that is hinged at the side. This enables it to be pulled away by 180° and rotated through 270°, allowing users to shoot from awkward angles or to capture self-portraits with. Above this is a pentamirror-style optical viewfinder that provides 95% scene coverage at a magnification of 0.78x.

In terms of size, the D5100 is impressively small for a DSLR, and at 560g with the battery installed, it isn’t particularly heavy either. Build quality is very much what you might expect of an entry-level DSLR. Like most entry-level and mid-range Nikon DSLRs, the D5100’s outer polycarbonate shell has been given a mottled finish so as to give it a more premium metallic look. While the outer shell provides ample protection against the occasional gentle knock, it obviously isn’t as robust as the magnesium alloy cages found on more expensive Nikon DSLRs. The D5100 isn’t weather-proofed either, so you’ll need to take care when using it near water or in wet weather. For beginners starting out and those who’d like the option of full manual control, the D5100 offers a lot for your money.

Canon EOS 600D (with 18-55mm IS II lens)

At a glance:

• Price £159
• Sensor 18MP APS-C CMOS
• Sensitivity ISO 100-6400 (ISO 12,800 extended)
• Continuous shooting 3.7fps
• Video 1080p Full HD at 30fps
• Rear display 3in, 1.04-million-dot vari-angle LCD
• Viewfinder Pentamirror, 95% coverage at 0.85x

Released at the beginning of 2011, second-hand examples of the Canon EOS 600D now provide excellent value for money – especially for anyone on a tight budget looking to wring the most out of their budget. Benefiting from a vari-angle rear LCD display, the 600D makes light work of taking selfies or shooting from awkward angles, while the 9-point AF system is both fast and accurate. Video capabilities extend to a respectable 1080p Full HD at 30fps, while the built-in pop-up flash doubles up as a wireless commander unit should you want to get creative with off-camera flash. Image quality from the 18MP APS-C CMOS sensor is excellent.

Sony Alpha 5000 (with 16-50mm lens)

At a glance:

• Price £119 / $265 body only
• Sensor 20.1MP APS-C CMOS
• Sensitivity ISO 100-16,000
• Continuous shooting 3.5fps
• Video 1080p Full HD at 24fps
• Rear display 3in, 460k-dot LCD
• Viewfinder None

The A5000’s big claim to fame upon its release in 2014 was that it was the smallest interchangeable-lens camera on the market. While that may no longer be the case, it remains impressively diminutive. As an entry-level model, controls are stripped back to the bare minimum, which makes it very easy to use, especially in fully automatic mode. That said, more advanced users may find the constant need to enter the in-camera menu a chore. While the 460k-dot rear LCD display is a little underwhelming by modern mirrorless standards, the A5000 nonetheless feels solid in the hand and is capable of delivering good results in a wide variety of situations.

Second-hand mirrorless bargains under £350 / $350

Olympus OM-D E-M5 (with 12-50mm kit zoom lens)

At a glance:

• Price £199 / $219 body only
• Sensor 16.1MP Four Thirds Live MOS
• Sensitivity ISO 200-25,600
• Continuous shooting 9fps
• Video 1080p Full HD at 30fps
• Rear display 3in, 610k-dot tiltable OLED touchscreen
• Viewfinder 1.44-million-dot EVF

Released in 2012, the E-M5 was the first camera to grace Olympus’ all-new OM-D range. Whereas existing PEN models at the time borrowed heavily from 1960’s Olympus PEN half-frame rangefinder cameras, the OM-D E-M5 took its inspiration from the company’s ‘OM’ range of 35mm SLRs from the same era. Back in 2012, a brand-new OM-D E-M5 and M.Zuiko ED 12-50mm f/3.5-5.6 EZ kit zoom would have set you back in the region of £1,150. These days, however, MPB.com has second-hand examples in ‘like new’ condition for just £219. Add an M.Zuiko 12-50mm kit zoom lens for £124, and the whole package could be yours for less than £350.

For the money, you get a great camera. The E-M5 is built around a 16.1MP Live MOS sensor – a modified version of which is still in use today – and the Olympus TruePic VI image processor. Native sensitivity ranges from ISO 200-25,600 while shutter speeds range from 1min to 1/4000sec. The maximum continuous shooting speed is a healthy 9fps. Being an older model, there is no support for 4K capture, but video capabilities do extend to 1080p Full HD capture at 30fps. The back of the camera is equipped with a 3in, 610k-dot tiltable LCD display with limited touchscreen functionality, above which sits a 1.44m-dot EVF. Admittedly, both the display and EVF are a bit dated compared to the 1.04-million-dot displays and 2.36-million-dot EVFs found on more recent Olympus cameras, but they both remain perfectly usable.

5-axis image stabilisation

One of the biggest innovations the E-M5 brought to the table on its launch was built-in 5-axis image stabilisation. In our review, we found it to work exceptionally well shooting handheld at slower shutter speeds. Another benefit of having the image stabilisation technology built-in to the camera is that there’s no need to pay a premium for optically stabilised lenses. In addition to Olympus MFT lenses, the E-M5 is also fully compatible with Panasonic and other third-party MFT lenses – you won’t be lacking for glass options.

Autofocus is taken care of by a 35-point contrast-detect system that at the time of the E-M5’s launch was billed by Olympus as the ‘world’s fastest’ contrast-detect system. Things have moved on a bit since then, but for the vast majority of situations, the E-M5’s overall AF performance remains impressive and is highly unlikely to disappoint.

Build quality is another area where the OM-D E-M5 shines, with its magnesium alloy body giving it an undoubtedly premium feel in the hand. Better still, the camera is also fully weather-sealed, meaning it can be used in the kind of conditions that would require many other cameras to be tucked safely away in a dry camera bag. In addition to being solidly built, the E-M5 is impressively small and light.

Sony Alpha 6000 (with 16-50mm lens)

At a glance:

• Price £314 / $359 body only
• Sensor 24.3MP APS-C CMOS
• Sensitivity ISO 100-25,600
• Continuous shooting 11fps
• Video 1080p Full HD at 60fps
• Rear display 3in, 921k-dot tiltable LCD
• Viewfinder 1.44-million-dot EVF

Positioned as a more advanced alternative to the A5000 and released soon after it in 2014, the A6000 benefits from a sizeable increase in resolution (from 20MP to 24.3MP), an expanded feature set and improved processing power. Unlike the A5000, it also gains a built-in electronic viewfinder that sits above a sharper rear LCD display. Unlike the purely contrast-detect AF system of the A5000, the A6000 benefits from a hybrid AF system that employs 179 phase-detection AF points alongside 25 contrast-detect AF points for speedier focus acquisition. Other highlights include a burst speed of 11fps, and 1080p video.

Fujifilm X-T10 (with 16-50mm lens)

At a glance:

• Price £219 / $400 body only
• Sensor 16.3MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS II
• Sensitivity ISO 200-6400 (ISO 100-51,200 extended)
• Continuous shooting 8fps
• Video 1080p Full HD at 60fps
• Rear display 3in, 920k-dot tiltable LCD
• Viewfinder 2.36-million-dot EVF

Released in 2015, the X-T10 was essentially a scaled-down version of the X-T1, which at that time was Fujifilm’s flagship mirrorless camera. While a number of the X-T1’s features were omitted to bring the cost down, the X-T10 does share the same sensor and image processor. Consequently, image quality is very much on a par with that of the X-T1. While it has since been succeeded by the 24.3MP X-T20, the X-T10 remains a stylish camera that provides good value for money. It also comes encased within a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body. Highlights include a hybrid AF system that uses on-sensor phase-detection pixels for fast AF, 1080p Full HD video capture plus Fujifilm’s excellent Film Simulation modes.

Best second-hand cameras for enthusiasts under £400 / $400

Fujifilm X-Pro1 (with 35mm f/1.4 lens)

At a glance:

• Price £350 / $578 body only
• Sensor 16.3MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS
• Sensitivity ISO 200-6400 (ISO 100-25,600 extended)
• Continuous shooting 6fps
• Video 1080p Full HD at 24fps
• Rear display 3in, 1.23-million-dot LCD
• Viewfinder Hybrid viewfinder

One of the first cameras out of the gate in the Fujifilm X series (though not the first), the Fujifilm X-Pro1 is a gorgeous piece of technology. Engineered to look and feel like a classic rangefinder camera, the X-Pro1 is a streamlined camera designed to do everything photographers want, without over-burdening them with things they don’t need. Also, in the years since the X-Pro1’s release, the X-mount lens system has expanded massively with some of the sharpest optics in the business.

The image quality the X-Pro1 is capable of producing is still, to this day, very impressive. The sensor doesn’t deliver quite the same resolving power and noise control as subsequent X-Trans sensors, naturally, but images have a wonderful, distinctive look to them that’s hard to get elsewhere. In our revisitation of the camera as a second-hand classic, photographer Mark Simpson described the look of the shots the X-Pro1 takes as ‘organic’, and when you look at them, you can see what he means. It just feels like such a natural image-making machine.

Streamlined ergonomics

The X-Pro1 handles like a dream. Its control scheme is based around physical dials and hunting, which means you’ll do a lot less tedious menu hunting than you would with many mirrorless cameras made around the same time (and, indeed, ones made today). Its size makes it easy to carry around for a full day’s shooting, but at the same time, the build quality feels premium.

The clever hybrid viewfinder is a must to mention. Back in the days of the X-Pro1’s release, this was a pretty big deal, combining the immediacy of an optical viewfinder with the usefulness of an electronic one. From day one, X-Pro cameras have been about persuading photographers to use the viewfinder rather than relying on the LCD screen. So much so that when it came time to make an X-Pro3, Fujifilm took the daring step of making it a flip-down model that can’t easily be viewed while shooting. That might be a step too far for some.

Focusing experience

So, with all this praise we’re heaping on the X-Pro1, you might reasonably think it’s a perfect camera to buy second-hand. This isn’t quite the case – Fujifilm took a while to sort out the autofocus on its cameras, and even when the X-Pro1 was brand new, its AF speed was lagging behind the competition. This does compromise the X-Pro1’s utility as a street camera – a discipline at which it otherwise excels.

There are also some good manual focusing options on the X-Pro1, as befitting a camera that hearkens back to the golden era of photography. When using the optical viewfinder, you get a handy rangefinder scale along the bottom that gives current focus distance as well as a bar indicating depth of field. If you’re still having trouble focusing, you can switch to the EVF for a more comprehensive readout.

For focusing on fine details, there’s an enlarging option that you can easily switch in and out of without removing your eye from the viewfinder. The whole experience of the X-Pro1 is clearly designed to keep your eye pressed to that cup and in the moment – as we’ve seen, Fujifilm would carry this ethos over to subsequent X-Pro cameras.

Superb image quality

One thing that consistently impressed us in our Fujifilm X-Pro1 review, all the way back in 2012, was the camera’s ability to resolve incredibly fine detail. If you shoot Raw images, you’ll find it’s possible to recover a hell of a lot of highlight detail from your images.

Colour reproduction on the X-Pro1 is excellent, and the famous Film Simulation modes are present and correct. You can have hours of fun trying out different modes like Provia, Velvia and Astia, and there are a number of monochrome options for those who shoot in black and white. The camera also produces fantastic JPEG images straight out of camera, and if you’re not someone who likes to spend too much time messing about in software, it’s a superb choice.

Pentax K-3 (with Pentax-DA 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 lens)

At a glance:

• Price £359 / $488
• Sensor 23.35MP APS-C sensor
• Sensitivity ISO 100-51,200
• Continuous shooting 8.3fps
• Video 1080p Full HD at 60fps
• Rear display 3.2in, 1.037-million-dot TFT LCD
• Viewfinder Pentaprism, 100% coverage at 0.95x magnification

The Pentax K-3 isn’t as flashy as many other recent DSLRs, but it’s a rugged and highly capable camera that can do a good job in just about any conditions. Its high-quality 23.25MP APS-C sensor uses no anti-aliasing filter, and can resolve a pretty impressive level of detail. You get a solid 100-51,200 ISO range for low-light work, and a continuous shooting rate of 8.3fps, which really is punching for a camera at this price point. Subsequent Mark II and Mark III versions have helped drive the second-hand price of this model down a little, and these days the Pentax-DA 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 lens can be picked up used for £130 / $217. That’s a pretty solid imaging combo, at a great price!

Best full-frame second-hand cameras under £400 / $400

Canon EOS 6D (with EF 50mm f/1.8 II lens)

At a glance:

• Price £479 / $549
• Sensor 20.2MP full-frame CMOS
• Sensitivity ISO 100-25,600 (ISO 50-102,800 extended)
• Continuous shooting 4.5fps
• Video 1080p Full HD at 30fps
• Rear display 3in, 1.04-million-dot LCD
• Viewfinder Pentaprism, 97% coverage at 0.71x magnification

Announced at Photokina 2012 and released a couple of months later, the EOS 6D was marketed as a smaller and more affordable alternative to the hugely popular EOS 5D Mark III. It was released with a body-only price of £1,680 and it’s now possible to source a second-hand 6D in ‘excellent’ condition with a shutter count under 10k for £349 from MPB.com. Throw in a ‘like new’ second-hand EF 50mm f/1.8 II prime for a further £79, and a full-frame DSLR starter kit could be yours for under £700 – for those looking to buy brand new in today’s DSLR market that’s barely enough to secure a mid-range APS-C DSLR.

Fulfilling its brief, the 6D borrows some hardware from the 5D Mark III, but also brings some of its own to the table in order to keep costs down. For example, while the 5D Mark III was built around a 22.3MP full-frame CMOS sensor, the 6D instead employs a 20.2MP chip. Both cameras share the same DIGIC 5+ image processor though, and both provide a native sensitivity range of ISO 100-25,600 that can be expanded to the equivalent of ISO 50-102,800. Last but not least, whereas the 5D Mark III offers a top continuous shooting speed of 6fps, the 6D maxes out at 4.5fps.

Autofocus and metering

Another area where the 6D differs from the 5D Mark III is with its phase-detect autofocus module. While the 5D Mark III comes with a 61-point system, the 6D instead employs 11 AF points that are spread out in a diamond formation in the central portion of the viewfinder, including one cross-type sensor in the middle. In our original review we noted how the 6D’s AF system nonetheless does a good job, providing fast and accurate focusing. As with many Canon DSLRs that don’t come equipped with Canon’s Dual Pixel AF technology, autofocus performance when the camera is being used in live view is noticeably sluggish.

Metering is handled by Canon’s own 63-zone Dual Layer SPC metering system – the same module employed the 5D Mark III – and offers a choice of Evaluative, Partial, Spot or Centre-weighted metering. The back of the 6D is equipped with a fixed 3in/1.04- million-dot LCD display that produces a clear and sharp image. Above this sits a pentaprism-style optical viewfinder that provides 97% frame coverage at a magnification of 0.71x. As is usually the case with more-advanced DSLRs, the 6D also sports a small LCD display on the top of the camera providing a quick reference point to key camera settings.

In terms of exposure modes, the 6D is well served by the full quartet of PASM modes, along with a fully automatic Scene Intelligent Auto mode and a range of specific Scene modes for less-experienced users. In addition, the 6D also provides a High Dynamic Range mode that captures a sequence of JPEGs at different exposure values and blends them together into a single image. Video-recording abilities, meanwhile, extend to 1080p Full HD capture at up to 30fps.

Wireless connectivity

While built-in Wi-Fi connectivity is something that we largely take for granted these days, the 6D was actually the first DSLR to implement the technology – until its release, the feature was only really seen in mirrorless cameras and a few high-end compacts. DSLR users, meanwhile, had to either attach bespoke Wi-Fi modules or wait until they were able to manually transfer their images to a computer via a card reader.

In terms of build quality, the 6D benefits from front and rear magnesium alloy panels bookended by a polycarbonate top-plate. By full-frame standards it’s quite a small camera too, which makes it easier to transport around when not in use. Paired with the EF 50mm f/1.8 II lens, the combination weighs 890g.

Nikon D600 (with AF-Nikkor 50mm f/1.8D)

At a glance:

• Price £300 / $380 body only
• Sensor 24.3MP full-frame CMOS
• Sensitivity ISO 100-6400 (ISO 50-25,600 extended)
• Continuous shooting 5.5fps
• Video 1080p Full HD at 30fps
• Rear display 3.2in, 921k-dot LCD
• Viewfinder Pentaprism, 100% coverage at 0.7x magnification

Announced towards the end of 2012, the D600 was at the time the cheapest full-frame DSLR in Nikon’s range, slotting in just below the semi-professional D800. The 24.3MP full-frame sensor is capable of excellent image quality, while the 39-point phase-detection AF system provides fast and accurate focus acquisition. For those looking to get creative with off-camera flash, the D600’s built-in flash can also be used as a command unit via Nikon’s Creative Lighting System. In terms of size and build quality, the D600 remains one of the smaller full-frame DSLRs available and also benefits from magnesium alloy top and back panels alongside dust- and water-sealing. It’s a cheap route into full-frame photography.

Sony Alpha 7 (with FE 50mm f/1.8)

At a glance:

• Price £350 / $420 body only
• Sensor 24.3MP full-frame CMOS
• Sensitivity ISO 100-25,600
• Continuous shooting 5fps
• Video 1080p Full HD at 30fps
• Rear display 3in, 921k-dot tilting  LCD
• Viewfinder 2.4-million-dot EVF

While the original Sony Alpha 7 that was released in 2014 isn’t able to match its direct descendants in terms of raw speed or processing power, it nonetheless remains a great little camera in its own right. Built around a 24.3MP full-frame sensor and Sony’s Bionz X processor, the A7 was one of the first mirrorless cameras to benefit from hybrid AF technology, which in this case combines 117 on-sensor phase-detection pixels with a further 25 contrast-detect points for frame-wide coverage and impressively fast lock-on speeds. Better still, while a brand new A7 would’ve set you back £1,500 (body-only) in 2014, second-hand examples in ‘excellent’ condition and with relatively low shutter counts can now be picked up for under £400.

Buying a second-hand camera

How to choose the best second-hand cameras

This is true for buying any camera, but goes double for second-hand – focus on the features you need. This means thinking about what you plan to shoot before buying a camera, so you can choose one that’s well suited to that task. If you want to make big prints of your images, prioritise megapixels. If you want to capture fast-moving subjects like wildlife, burst rate is key. For low-light work you want a good ISO range, and you may also want to think about the physical size of the camera if you’re planning on carrying it around all day.

Warranties/guarantees

If you decide to buy second-hand, we’d strongly advise sticking with an established and reputable firm. This includes – but isn’t limited to – the likes of WEX Photographic, MPB, CameraWorld, Park Cameras, Richard Caplan, Camera Jungle, Ffordes, Grays of Westminster, and the London Camera Exchange. Reputable specialists like these will generally offer a short guarantee on all second-hand kit, usually three to six months. This is in addition to any consumer protection rights you are legally entitled to. While buying privately can usually save you additional money over a second-hand specialist, you are unlikely to get any such guarantees.

Second-hand camera ratings system

All the major second-hand camera specialists employ a fixed grading scale that’s used to indicate the overall condition of the camera. The most commonly used terms for this purpose are: ‘Mint’ or ‘Like New’, ‘Excellent’, ‘Good’, and ‘Fair’ or ‘Well Used’. Some companies – WEX, for example – use a numerical grading system instead. Either way, ‘Mint’ or ‘Like New’ condition describes a camera that is scratch-free and in perfect working order. ‘Excellent’ describes a camera in perfect working order, but with minor cosmetic marks. ‘Good’ describes a camera that has been well looked after, but which shows obvious signs of use. Last, ‘Fair’ or ‘Well Used’ is used to describe a camera that is in good working order but which bears obvious signs of use and age. In almost all cases, the retailer will have checked the sensor for dust and cleaned it if necessary. Most companies also offer detailed images of the products they have for sale so you can inspect it yourself at close magnification.

Shutter count

Another useful indicator that can help you to gauge the condition of a second-hand camera you might be interested in is its shutter count. This describes how many times the shutter has been opened and closed and is useful to know because the delicate blades that make up a camera’s shutter mechanism have a limited lifespan, after which expensive repairs may well be required. Knowing a camera’s shutter count therefore not only provides a good idea of how heavily it has been used by the previous owner but also gives an indication of how much life is left in it

Text by Audley Jarvis, with contributions from Jon Stapley.

For more recommendations, have a look at our guide to the best second-hand full-frame cameras available, or have a look at our guide to finding a great second-hand lens. 

Related reading:

• Best used DSLRs
• Small wonders: best used compact cameras for winter
• Black Friday is coming, but why not consider buying used?

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The post What are the best second-hand cameras? appeared first on Amateur Photographer.

Joshua Waller explains why these compact cameras should be considered, and why they’re likely to become retro classics of choice. They are far more advanced than basic point-and-shoot cameras, but can of course be used in fully automatic modes if required.

A new point and shoot camera will cost $1,000 / £1,000. To find a cheap compact digital model, you need to turn to the used camera market. This guide points to options across the price range. For even cheaper, older alternatives, then read our guide to the best vintage digital cameras.

Here we look through some of our favourite compact digital cameras; potential future classic compacts for consideration if you’re in the market for a great second-hand compact camera.

We’ve selected used models that have manual controls, as well as raw shooting support, and additional advanced features that make them great to use – and to their full potential. Some of these offer classic styling, as well as external controls, making them much more pleasant to use than your standard compact digital camera.

Buying a used digital camera from an established US or UK retailer often includes a warranty for it, whereas other second-hand marketplaces such as eBay, Facebook or Craigslist, usually do not. Some of these models, despite their age, may also be available new, giving you the chance to buy one in mint condition.

Here are our choices for best second-hand classic compact cameras:

• Fujifilm X100T – buy now
• Ricoh GR II – buy now
• Panasonic Lumix LX100 – buy now
• Sony Cyber-shot RX100 III – buy now
• Panasonic Lumix TZ100 – buy now
• Panasonic Lumix LX15 – buy now
• Canon Powershot G7X II – buy now
• Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 – buy now
• Canon Powershot S110
• Olympus XZ-2
• Panasonic Lumix TZ70 – buy now
• Olympus TOUGH TG-6 – buy now

We also highlight our favourite branded compact cameras from the likes of Fujifilm, Ricoh, Panasonic, Sony, Olympus and Canon.

Large sensor compact cameras – APS-C

Fujifilm X100T ($1,500 / from £680 used)

At a glance

• 16MP APS-C X-Trans CMOS sensor
• 35mm equivalent, f/2 lens
• Hybrid OVF/EVF viewfinder
• 3inch LCD screen
• Wi-Fi

The Fujifilm X100 introduced in 2012 brought with it several things that people instantly loved, including the classic camera look of film cameras, a large optical viewfinder (with impressive hybrid EVF mode), manual controls and metal dials, as well as a large APS-C sensor, making it possible of giving DSLR quality whilst also fitting into a jacket pocket.

The first model is the 12MP X100 (2012), which was followed by the 16MP X100S (2013), and X100T (2014). Depending on what you can find, we’d recommend looking for the X100T. *Though the price has recently risen due to a recent surge in popularity on TikTok, we can see why as the analogue control dials make it a real joy to use, with impressive image quality on offer.

This is a great choice for those who have been unable to find the Fujifilm X100V after it went viral on TikTok.

Read our Fujifilm X100T review.

Ricoh GR II ($1,000*/£700 used)

* At the time of publishing, availability of the Ricoh GR ll is scarce.

At a glance

• 16MP APS-C sensor
• 28mm equivalent f/2.8 lens
• Viewfinder optional
• 3inch screen
• Wi-Fi and NFC

The Ricoh GR series is a range of compact cameras designed to hark back to the classic Ricoh GR 35mm film cameras, that were known for their compact size, and snapshot features, making them a great street and travel camera. Now the original Ricoh GR1 (and other) film camera costs the same as the digital version!

With the Ricoh GR, Ricoh introduced an APS-C sized sensor, in an impressively compact camera body, the 2nd version, the Ricoh GR II introduced in 2015, is available for around £674 second-hand.

The lens on the camera gives a 28mm equivalent, and has an f/2.8 aperture, and this delivers sharp, detailed images. With a wide-angle view and snap focus options, the camera makes a great choice for street photography, and the compact size means you can take it everywhere you go. With manual controls, raw support, and customisable, this makes a great compact for the advanced photographer.  

Make sure you don’t confuse the Ricoh GR II (with APS-C sensor) with the earlier “Ricoh GR Digital” series, which has smaller digital camera sensors, unless you want to go for that true vintage digital camera look.

Large sensor compact cameras – Micro Four Thirds

Panasonic Lumix LX100 ($685 / from £450 used)

At a glance

• 12.8MP Four Thirds sensor
• 24-75mm equivalent, f1.7-2.8 lens, OIS
• 2.7M-dot electronic viewfinder
• 3inch screen
• 4K video

The Panasonic Lumix LX100 offers a fast zoom lens, and Four Thirds sensor, along with optical image stabilisation. What makes this camera stand out from many of the other compact cameras, is the level of external, manual control available, thanks to the inclusion of numerous switches and dials. You’ll find you can adjust the aperture, shutter speed, exposure compensation, aspect ratio and AF option without even switching the camera on.

The lens on the camera offers a 24-75mm equivalent, and with an f1.7-2.8 aperture gives this camera a brighter lens than most other large sensor cameras, and considering it has a zoom lens, this is all the more impressive. Even though the camera is now getting on in years, it still offers built-in Wi-Fi, and can record 4K video.

For those who want a little bit more class, look out for the Leica version, the Leica D-Lux (Typ 109), although be prepared to pay more for this luxury version.

Read our Panasonic Lumix LX100 review

Large sensor compact cameras – 1 inch sensor

Sony Cyber-shot RX100 III ($650 / £550 used)

At a glance

• 20MP 1inch BSI CMOS sensor
• 24-70mm equivalent, f/1.8-2.8 lens
• 1.44M-dot Pop-up EVF
• 3inch tilting screen
• Wi-Fi and NFC

The Sony Cyber-shot RX100 series introduced a new compact digital camera, with a larger than normal 1inch 20MP sensor, and a bright zoom lens. In true Sony style, the technology packed into each camera has been impressive, and with no noticeable size increase, Sony were able to put a pop-up electronic viewfinder in the RX100 III model.

One can expect to pay another £100 for each newer version as a rule of thumb, all with the same 24-70mm equivalent lens. However, if you like easy to access external controls, then some may find the small buttons and controls on the RX100 series cameras quite small.

Read our Sony Cyber-shot RX100 III review

Panasonic Lumix TZ100, ZS100 ($620 / from £480 used)

At a glance

• 20MP 1inch CMOS sensor
• 25-250mm equivalent, f/2.8-5.9 lens
• 1.1M-dot electronic viewfinder
• 3inch touchscreen
• 4K video

The Panasonic Lumix TZ100 / Panasonic Lumix ZS100 features a 10x optical zoom lens, equivalent to 25-250mm, giving a useful wide-angle to telephoto range, with an aperture range from f2.8-5.9. It’s also known as the TZ100 in some markets.

The TZ100 offers a hybrid optical / electronic 5-axis image stabilisation to help with longer shots or for when you’re shooting in low-light. You’ll find manual controls, as well as raw shooting available on the TZ100, and the Q.Menu button gives you quick access to settings.

It uses a 1inch sensor, and offers 4K video recording. With a relatively compact camera body, and a weight of 312g with battery and memory card it is easy to take with you wherever you go.

Read our Panasonic Lumix TZ100 (ZS100) review

Panasonic Lumix LX10 / LX15 ($950 / £760 used)

At a glance

• 20MP 1inch sensor
• 24-72mm equivalent, f/1.4-2.8 lens
• 3inch tilting touchscreen
• 4K video
• Wi-Fi

The Panasonic Lumix LX10 / Panasonic Lumix LX15 is a compact camera with a 20MP 1inch sensor, and features a brighter than normal 24-72mm equivalent, f/1.4 – 2.8 lens. It offers good macro performance, letting you focus on subjects just 3cm away. Known as the LX10 or LX15 depending where you are, this digital camera is worth seeking out.

If you’re looking for both compact, and a bright zoom lens, then the LX10 / LX15 is a good choice, thanks to 5-axis image stabilisation, 4K video recording and a 3inch tilting touch-screen. The screen can be tilted forwards for selfies and vlogging, and the camera has built-in Wi-Fi, a true modern classic.

Read our Panasonic Lumix LX15 review

Canon Powershot G7X II ($750 / £820)

At a glance

• 20MP 1inch sensor
• 4.2x optical zoom, 24-100mm equivalent, f1.8-2.8
• 3inch tilting touchscreen
• FullHD video
• Wi-Fi

The reason you might want this over another compact digital camera, is that it remains compact, but offers additional reach compared to most, with a 4.2x optical zoom lens, that offers a 24-100mm equivalent zoom range, and an f1.8-2.8 aperture, whilst using a 1inch sensor.

You also benefit from Canon’s excellent colour reproduction, with great JPEGs straight from the camera. With logical controls and menus, along with a responsive touchscreen, this is a great point and shoot camera, with manual controls, and raw support. If you’re already used to shooting with Canon cameras, then this makes a great pocketable option or back-up camera.

However, for those that want to record 4K video, this is not a great choice, as video is limited to FullHD video only. The screen can be tilted forwards, for selfies or for vlogging.

Read our Canon Powershot G7X II review

Second-hand Bridge – Ultra-zoom Camera

Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 ($600 / £350 used)

At a glance

• 20MP 1inch CMOS sensor
• 16x optical zoom lens
• 2.36M-dot OLED EVF
• 3inch tilting-screen
• 4K video recording

If you want big optical zoom and a large sensor, then this is where you need to be looking, thanks to the 16x optical zoom lens, giving a 25 to 400mm equivalent. Optical Image Stabilisation (OIS) helps keep shots steady, and the camera can shoot at a rapid 12fps in continuous shooting mode, which still remains relatively impressive, even today.

There’s 4K video recording, a built-in high-resolution electronic viewfinder (often simply called an EVF), and this makes the camera easier to use in sunny conditions.

The digital camera has an ergonomic design, with DSLR-like styling, which helps make it more stable when using the camera and its long telephoto reach.

Read our Panasonic Lumix FZ1000 review

Pocket Compact Cameras

Canon Powershot S110 ($400 / £360 used)

At a glance

• 12MP BSI CMOS sensor, 1/1.7inch
• 5x optical zoom lens, f/2.0-5.9, 24-120mm equivalent, OIS
• 3inch screen
• 3cm macro mode
• Wi-Fi

For those looking for something compact and pocketable, the Canon Powershot S110 is one of the most compact cameras available with full manual controls and raw shooting. It also features built-in Wi-Fi to make it easier to transfer images to a smartphone or tablet.

There’s a 5x optical zoom lens, which gives an impressive range of 24-120mm equivalent, and this includes an f/2.0 aperture at the wide end, as well as built-in Optical Image Stabilisation (OIS). This was the penultimate Canon Powershot S series camera, followed only by the S120. There’s a lens control ring to help make changing settings more easy, and with a small camera body, it’s worth using a wrist strap.

Make sure you buy from a dealer with a warranty, as reports online suggest that the lens can jam if not looked after, especially as this is one of the older digital cameras on this list. However, something to keep in mind is that the S110 can prove hard to find, so another option is the older model, the S100, or the newer model, the S120 – although be aware that prices may vary!

Read our Canon Powershot S110 review

Olympus XZ-2 ($400 / £425 used)

At a glance

• 12MP BSI CMOS sensor, 1/1.7inch
• 4x optical zoom, 28-112mm equivalent, f1.8-2.5, OIS
• 3inch tilting touch-screen
• Optional electronic viewfinder
• 1cm super macro mode

Harder to find is the Olympus XZ-2, probably one of the rarest digital cameras on this list. However, it can still be found on eBay.

The camera has a nice f/1.8-2.5 4x optical zoom lens, and gives images with Olympus’ pleasing colours, as well as impressive macro performance. You get a built-in pop-up flash, and flash hot-shoe should you need it. There’s a 3inch tilting touch-screen, and a 12MP BSI CMOS sensor.

It’s been called an “underrated gem” by owners of the camera, and offers good handling for a compact camera, with a detachable grip. However, the lack of built-in Wi-Fi could be a deal-breaker for some.

It could also be difficult to find, as it is also one of the older digital cameras on the list, and another option is the even older Olympus XZ-1.

Read our Olympus XZ-2 review

Compact cameras – Travel Zoom

Panasonic Lumix TZ70 / ZS50 – Travel Zoom ($410 / £300 used)

At a glance

• 12MP BSI CMOS sensor, size
• 30x optical zoom lens, 24-720mm equivalent
• 1.1M-dot EVF
• 3inch screen
• Wi-Fi

12-megapixels for a compact camera was considered a bit of a “sweet spot” as it offered reasonable noise performance for the time, and the TZ70 / ZS50 is a prime example.

The Panasonic Lumix TZ70 / ZS50 digital camera offers an impressive 30x optical zoom lens, giving you a 24-720mm equivalent zoom range! Even with this zoom range, you can still fit it in a pocket, making this a great camera to take with you on walks, without having to worry about it.

You’ll find versions available in all black or silver and black.

Read our Panasonic Lumix TZ70 / ZS50 review

Compact cameras – Waterproof

Olympus TOUGH TG-6 ($485 / £555)

At a glance

• 12MP BSI CMOS sensor
• 25-100mm equivalent lens, f/2.0-4.9
• 3inch screen
• 15m waterproof
• Wi-Fi, GPS

It’s likely that you might struggle to find one of these on retailers used lists, and may need to look to eBay to find this used digital camera, but it’s worth seeking out an Olympus Tough TG-6 (or TG-5) if you want one of the best waterproof tough compact cameras released. The TG-6 is waterproof to 15m, shockproof against drops, crushproof, and freezeproof. It would also make a great choice if you want a camera for adventures, or adventurous kids.

You’ll also find a range of advanced shooting modes, including Pro-capture, high-speed shooting, 4K video, an impressive 1cm macro mode, plus built-in focus stacking.

Read our Olympus Tough TG-6 review

Retailers to have a look at to find these cameras:

• www.cameraworld.co.uk
• www.cliftoncameras.co.uk
• www.ffordes.com
• www.lcegroup.co.uk
• www.mpb.com/en-uk
• www.mifsuds.com
• www.parkcameras.com
• www.worldwidecameraexchange.co.uk
• www.wexphotovideo.com

You’ll find even more bargains in our buying guides, or in our second-hand section.

• Have a look at the best vintage digital cameras!

Follow AP on Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok.

The post 12 Best Second-hand Classic Compact Cameras: stylish and enduring appeared first on Amateur Photographer.

Full-frame mirrorless cameras have been around long enough that there is now a large second-hand market for yesterday’s professional models – at realistic prices for the enthusiast. Whether you’re looking for top-end resolution, super-charged burst rates, next-level autofocus or whatever else, there will be a full-frame mirrorless camera for you.

The second-hand camera market is vast and tricky to navigate. This shortlist of picks provides some pointers for those in the hunt for used full-frame mirrorless models. We’ve selected cameras recent enough to offer a modern shooting experience, but established enough to have undergone a big price drop. Many on the list can be bought in excellent condition at around half their price at launch – or even less.

We focus specifically on full-frame mirrorless cameras here as this is where we expect photographers and videographers to find the most value. For other types of sensor and camera, find out more in our exhaustive guides to APS-C vs full frame and DSLRs vs mirrorless.

All the cameras on this list are ones we’ve tested, reviewed and obsessed about extensively, so rest assured that our recommendations are objective and thorough. We never endorse cameras we feel are not worth their asking price.

We go into more detail on how to choose the best second-hand full-frame mirrorless camera at the bottom of the page, so head there first if you need a primer.

Here’s a quick glance at the best second hand full-frame mirrorless cameras in this article: 

Looking for the best deal on second-hand mirrorless cameras? Not only will you find the best second hand cameras, but also some of the best cheap deals, as our ‘Buy now’ buttons are setup to automatically take you to the best prices from trusted retailers. There is also a list of other retailers below each camera, so you can find the right deal for you.

• Best used Canon mirrorless: Canon EOS RP – Buy now
• Best second hand mirrorless camera for Landscape photography: Nikon Z7 – Buy now
• Best second-hand all rounder camera: Nikon Z6 – Buy now
• Best second hand full frame Panasonic camera: Panasonic Lumix S5 – Buy now
• Smallest second hand mirrorless camera: Sigma fp – Buy now
• Cheapest used full-frame mirrorless: Sony Alpha A7 II – Buy now
• Best second-hand high resolution Panasonic camera: Panasonic Lumix S1R – Buy now

Best used Canon mirrorless: Canon EOS RP

At a glance

• 26.2MP full-frame dual-pixel CMOS sensor
• ISO 50-102,400 (extended)
• 5 frames per second shooting
• 2.36m-dot EVF, 0.7x magnification
• 3-in, 1.04m-dot fully articulated touchscreen
• around $800 / around £850

The EOS RP was Canon’s second full-frame mirrorless camera after the original EOS R and remains the entry-level offering in the firm’s line-up. Weighing in at less than 500g (body-only), it’s one of the most compact full-frame cameras available. At the time of its launch, Canon made a great play of the fact that it was smaller and lighter than the EOS 800D APS-C DSLR.

Shop around and you should be able to find one in good second-hand condition for around £850, representing a healthy £200 saving over its current new price. If you’re a Canon DSLR user interested in buying into full-frame mirrorless while using your existing lenses, it’s by far the most affordable option.

Canon built the RP around the same 26.2MP full-frame sensor as its EOS 6D Mark II DSLR, with the firm’s unique Dual Pixel AF enabling rapid and accurate autofocus across the entire image area. Its standard sensitivity range covers ISO 100-40,000, expandable to ISO 50-102,400, and the camera can shoot at five frames per second. 4K/25p video recording is available, but with a significant 1.6x crop. Full HD covers the full width of the frame.

You get a 2.36m-dot electronic viewfinder for composing images, with a reasonable 0.7x magnification that also provides an accurate preview of colour and exposure. It’s complemented by a fully articulated touchscreen that facilitates shooting at unusual angles in both landscape and portrait formats. Every aspect of the camera’s operation can be controlled by touch, which helps to make up for a fairly limited set of physical controls.

Lightweight RF lenses

When the EOS RP was originally launched, it didn’t seem to make much sense, as Canon only made one RF lens that matched its compact frame and price point. But since then, the firm has produced a set of optics that place it an entirely new light. Now, you can match it up with an array of lightweight and reasonably affordable RF lenses, including the 24-105mm F4-7.1 IS STM (£479), 100-400mm F5.6-8 IS USM (£699), 50mm F1.8 STM (£219) and 85mm F2 IS Macro STM (£649).

For those who’d like an all-in-one travel zoom, there’s also the 24-240mm F4-6.3 IS USM (£959). For nature lovers, Canon makes a pair of unusually small ultra-telephotos, the 600mm F11 IS STM (£859) and 800mm F11 IS STM (£1,100). With these lenses now available, the EOS RP becomes a much more interesting proposition as the basis of a lightweight full-frame kit.

EF adaptor

Canon DSLR owners can continue to use all their existing EF-mount lenses with full functionality, including image stabilisation and autofocus, via the Mount Adaptor EF-EOS R (£119). This is such a popular approach that Canon has struggled to keep up with demand, with the adaptor’s availability being notoriously patchy; it’s often out of stock for months. However, cheaper alternatives are available from the likes of Viltrox that appear to work perfectly well.

Read our Canon EOS RP review

Best second-hand mirrorless camera for Landscape photography: Nikon Z 7

At a glance

• 45.7MP full-frame BSI-CMOS sensor
• ISO 32-102,400 (extended)
• 9 frames per second shooting
• 3.69m-dot EVF, 08x magnification
• 2.1m-dot, 3.2in tilting touchscreen
• $1,800 / £1,170 second-hand

Nikon launched its full-frame mirrorless Z system with a pair of cameras that used the same body design but different sensors: the Z 6 and Z 7. The latter was the more sophisticated of the two, and these days it provides a relatively affordable route into high-resolution shooting.

Built around a 45.7MP full-frame back-illuminated sensor, the Z 7 is capable of delivering the same image quality as the D850 – arguably Nikon’s best-ever DSLR – in a much more portable package. But with five-axis in-body image stabilisation (IBIS) built in that works with every lens, it also allows photographers to gain the full benefit of all those pixels more easily when shooting hand-held.

Like the D850, the Z 7 is an impressive all-rounder capable of shooting at up to 9 frames per second at full resolution. On-chip phase detection supports 493 focus points arranged across 90% of the frame, and the standard ISO 64-25,600 range can be extended to ISO 32-102,400.

Nikon equipped the Z 7 with a superb electronic viewfinder that’s still one of the best you’ll find. It’s large and detailed, with 3.69m-dot resolution, 0.8x magnification, and a wonderfully clear live view feed that’s great for judging focus and depth-of-field. The LCD screen is a similarly excellent 3.2in unit and employs a dual-tilt design for high or low angle shooting, at least in landscape format.

Lens options

To make the most of the Z system’s compact size and weight, Nikon adopted a slightly different approach to building up its lens range compared to its F-mount DSLR line-up. Premium optics are given the ‘S’ designation and include both f/2.8 and f/4 zooms, along with a set of fine f/1.8 primes ranging from 20mm to 85mm. There’s also a small but developing range of affordable non-S optics.

Existing Nikon DSLR owners can also use their F-mount lenses via Nikon’s FTZ or FTZ2 adapters (the main difference being that the latter does without a tripod foot). Autofocus is available with AF-S and AF-P lenses that have built-in focus motors, but older AF D-type lenses require focusing manually. This is easy enough, thanks to the excellent viewfinder. Crucially, the in-body stabilisation works with every single lens and operates in tandem with those that include optical VR.

Media

Possibly the Z 7’s most controversial feature at launch was its reliance on a single card slot accepting XQD media, with no support for conventional SD cards. That’s been remedied in its successor with the addition of an SD slot, while a firmware update has added CFexpress Type B support to the Z 7. But chances are you’ll have to budget for a new memory card and reader, with XQD and CFexpress being expensive; expect to pay at least £100 for a card.

Read our Nikon Z 7 review

Best second-hand all rounder camera: Nikon Z 6

At a glance

• 24.5MP full-frame BSI CMOS sensor
• ISO 50-204,800 extended
• 12 frames per second shooting
• 3.68m-dot OLED EVF
• 2.1m-dot tilting touchscreen LCD
• $830 / £720 second hand

The all-rounder to the Z 7’s high-resolution specialist, the Nikon Z 6 is a speedy camera that can these days be picked up for less than half the original ticket price. In our humble opinion, that’s a really good deal, and it’s a great entry point to the Z system if a second-hand Z 7 is a little beyond your means. However, it’s worth mentioning that this is not simply an inferior version of the Z 7 and actually nudges past it in certain specs, most notably its faster burst rate, which can go as high as 12fps.

Full-frame mirrorless cameras are often quite specialised, and we think the Z 6 is still one of the best general-purpose full-frame mirrorless cameras around. It goes toe-to-toe with the Sony A7 series in that respect, and it outstrips that camera on several levels, largely thanks to its superior build quality. It just feels like a better-made camera than the contemporaneous Sony A7 III, with better handling and ergonomics.

Impressive high-ISO performance

The fact that the Z 6 has fewer photosites crammed onto its full-frame sensor means that it can achieve better high-ISO performance compared to its sibling, the Z 7. It can take its ISO performance as high as 51,200 natively, and as high as 204,800 in the expanded settings. Granted, the top-end of ISO settings don’t tend to actually get used by many people for serious shooting, but a rising tide lifts all boats, and the Z 6’s ISO performance is accordingly very impressive throughout the range.

The sensor has a back-illuminated structure, which further improves the low-light performance. Also, in another breakaway from the Z 7, it has an optical low-pass filter to help deal with unwanted moiré patterning. Having 5-axis optical stabilisation is helpful in low light, too. It corrects not just for pitch and yaw, but also for rotation around the lens axis, which is a boon for shooting handheld video.

The card slot thing, again

Unfortunately, Nikon’s single-XQD-slot mistake was not confined to the Z 7, and the Z 6 has the same requirement for recording and storing media. It’s not the end of the world, but it’s definitely irritating, especially since the XQD card you’ll have to buy for it will likely never be used again the instant you upgrade to another camera. That’s really our only strike against this excellent full-frame mirrorless camera.

Read our Nikon Z 6 review.

Best second-hand full frame Panasonic camera: Panasonic Lumix S5

At a glance

• 24.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor
• ISO 50-204,800 (extended)
• 7 frames per second shooting
• 2.36m-dot EVF, 0.74x magnification
• 3in, 1.84m-dot fully articulated touchscreen
• Around $1,500 / £750 second-hand

Released towards the end of 2020, Panasonic’s mass-market full-frame mirrorless model is aimed at those who enjoy shooting moving images just as much as stills. It’s a nicely designed camera that manages to be smaller than the firm’s popular Micro Four Thirds GH5, despite having a sensor four times the size. It employs the L mount originally developed by Leica, which means it’s compatible with a good range of lenses from Panasonic, Leica and Sigma. It has since seen an upgrade in the form of the Panasonic Lumix S5 II, which should mean the price of this model comes down still further on the second-hand market.

Like many of its peers, the S5 is based on a 24MP full-frame sensor. It offers a standard ISO range of 100-51,200, expandable to 50-204,800, and is capable of shooting at 5 frames per second with continuous autofocus, or 7fps with focus fixed. In addition, 5-axis in-body stabilisation is built in to keep images sharp and video footage steady.

Below the 2.36m-dot EVF there’s a fully articulated screen, which represents a welcome advance over the tilt-only screens used by many of its competitors. Not only does it aid with shooting at high and low angles for both horizontal and vertical formats, but it can also face forwards for vlogging.

On that note, the S5 boasts impressive video credentials. It’s capable of recording in 4K at 60fps with 4:2:0 10-bit colour using an APS-C crop, or at 30fps with 4:2:2 10-bit colour from the full width of the sensor. There’s no time limit when recording 4K 30p/25p 4:2:0 8-bit internally, while 4K 60p 4:2:2 10-bit output is available via HDMI. Plenty of advanced video features are on hand, too, including V-log pre-installed, 4K HDR, and raw output over HDMI at 5.9K 50p.

Photo friendly, too

While there’s certainly a perception that Panasonic is now focused mostly on video, the S5 offers an awful lot for stills photographers too. It handles very nicely, with all the key controls placed at your fingertips, and a huge amount of user-customisation is available. As a result, it’s a very enjoyable camera to use.

You get crisp, detailed images at low ISO settings, with file remaining perfectly usable up to ISO 12,800 at least. One particularly notable feature is the 96MP high-resolution multi-shot mode, which is unique on a full-frame camera at this price point. The in-camera processing is speedy and does a good job of detecting and suppressing blur when it detects slight movement in the scene.

Unique kit zoom

One of the most interesting aspects of Panasonic’s approach to the S5 is its unique kit zoom, the Lumix S 20-60mm F3.5-5.6. While its unusually wide view is undoubtedly aimed at vloggers recording themselves at arm’s length, it should also appeal to photographers shooting architecture and landscapes.

At £619.99, it’s much more affordable than adding a specialist wideangle zoom to your kit. Paired with the Lumix S 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 Macro OIS (£1259), it should also make an excellent lightweight travel kit. Panasonic also offers a range of small and relatively affordable f/1.8 primes.

Read our Panasonic Lumix S5 review

Smallest second-hand mirrorless camera: Sigma fp

At a glance

• 24MP full-frame CMOS sensor
• ISO 6-102,400 (extended)
• 18 frames per second shooting
• Optional bolt-on EVF-11 viewfinder
• 3.1in, 2.1m-dot fixed touchscreen
• From around $1,200 / £1,150 second-hand

The Sigma fp is a camera unlike any other. By stripping out all but the bare essentials, the firm has made the smallest full-frame model currently available. The result is a departure from the mainstream and comes with some significant compromises. But nothing else can offer full-frame image quality and interchangeable lenses in such a portable package.

In essence, the Sigma fp is a rectangular box measuring 113 x 70 x 45.3mm that houses a 24MP full frame sensor, with an L mount at the front and fixed 3.2in touchscreen on the back. There’s no built-in viewfinder, no mechanical shutter, and not even a handgrip. But the design is modular, so you can bolt a handgrip on one side and the optional EVF-11 on the other, if you like. I’d certainly recommend the small HG-11 grip.

The fp offers a standard sensitivity range of ISO 100-25,600 that’s expandable to ISO 102,400 at the top end. But in one of several unique ideas, expanded low sensitivities down to ISO 6 are also available, using a multi-frame approach that adds together multiple ISO 100 exposures. This ideally needs a tripod and is prone to ghosting effects when moving subjects are in the frame, but when everything works out, you can get fantastic results.

With no mechanical shutter, exposure time is set entirely electronically. While there’s some risk of rolling shutter distortion with fast-moving subjects, for the most part this works fine, and much better than on the camera’s high-resolution sibling, the Sigma fp L. There’s no in-body stabilisation, though, and only a few L-mount lenses include optical stabilisation.

Little camera, big results

What you can’t argue about is the image quality that the fp can provide. With no optical low-pass filter, the sensor records plenty of detail, and at low ISO it’s possible to pull up three or four extra stops of detail from shadow regions without noise being a problem. When light levels drop, it’ll deliver eminently usable results up to ISO 12,800 at least.

Ultimately, the Sigma fp has an undeniable charm as a small camera that works nicely with compact lenses and is a lot of fun to shoot with. This makes it an intriguing alternative to its larger SLR-shaped rivals for those seeking full-frame quality in the smallest possible package.

Sigma i-series lenses

While you can use the fp with any L-mount lens, it’s arguably best suited for use with the firm’s compact i-series primes, which boast premium metal construction complete with analogue aperture rings. The 45mm f/2.8 is the perfect companion for everyday shooting, complemented by the 24mm f/3.5 wideangle and 90mm f/2.8 telephoto.

For those who prefer larger apertures, 24mm, 35mm and 65mm f/2 optics are also available. Meanwhile, if you can’t live without a zoom, Sigma makes the 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN that’s considerably smaller and lighter than its 24-70mm sibling.

Read our Sigma fp review

Cheapest used full-frame mirrorless: Sony Alpha A7 II

At a glance

• 24MP full-frame CMOS sensor
• ISO 50-25,600 (extended)
• 5 frames per second shooting
• 2.36m-dot EVF, 0.71x magnification
• 1.23m-dot tilting LCD
• $850 / £920 second-hand

Sony’s Alpha 7 range is the longest-running full-frame mirrorless line-up of all, which means that there’s a bewildering array of models available second-hand across a wide range of price points. The high-resolution A7R range is of particular interest to studio and landscape shooters, while the 12MP A7S models are prized by videographers. In between, the ‘basic’ Alpha 7 line represents all-rounders aimed at enthusiast photographers.

While the original Alpha 7 from 2013 has a certain charm and can be found used for under £500, we’ve chosen to highlight its successor that appeared just 13 months later. The Sony Alpha 7 II brought major improvements in handling, including improved control dials and a larger, more conventional handgrip, while also introducing 5-axis in-body image stabilisation to Sony’s mirrorless line-up.

You can pick up used models in excellent condition for several hundred dollars and pounds less than its much-feted successor, the A7 III.

While its spec may look a little dated by modern standards, the A7 II still has plenty to offer. Its 24MP sensor offers excellent image quality at low ISO settings, with particularly impressive dynamic range, while providing a sensitivity range up to ISO 25,600. Continuous shooting runs at 5 frames per second and there are 117 autofocus points to choose from covering almost the entirety of the image area.

However, only the central region provides faster phase detection AF. The 2.36m-dot viewfinder is joined by a 3in screen that tilts up and down, but doesn’t offer touch functionality. Typically for its vintage, only Full HD video recording is available.

Small and light

While the A7 II isn’t quite as lightweight as either its predecessor or the Canon EOS RP, mainly due to the addition of IBIS, it’s still pretty petite in full-frame terms. It’s noticeably lighter than later models, too, although in part this is due to the small and rather underpowered NP-FW50 battery. I’d budget on acquiring a few spares; thankfully third-party options are cheap and easy to find.

Overall, the Sony A7 II brings a lot to the table for photographers at a very attractive price. It certainly has its foibles, but given its excellent raw image quality and compact size, they’re easily forgiven.

Any lens you like

Like all E-mount cameras, the A7 II can make use of a vast array of lenses. Not only is Sony’s FE range larger than rival line-ups, plenty of third-party options are also available, from small, affordable Samyang primes through to sublime lenses from Zeiss. In between, Sigma and Tamron both make excellent optics at competitive prices.

It’s even possible to get electronic adapters for Canon EF-mount lenses, although they don’t work as well as on Canon’s EOS R cameras. Last but not least, the A7 II is an excellent vehicle for shooting with vintage manual optics from old 35mm film cameras via mount adapters.

Read our Sony Alpha 7 II review

Best second-hand high resolution full-frame camera: Panasonic Lumix S1R

At a glance

• 47.3MP full-frame CMOS sensor
• ISO 50-51,200 (expanded)
• 9fps continuous shooting
• 5.76m dot EVF with 0.83x magnification
• 3.2in, 2.1-million dot triaxial tilt LCD touchscreen
• around $1,649 / £1,079 second-hand

Originally released in 2019 for a list price of $3,600 / £3,400, the Panasonic Lumix S1R can these days be picked up second-hand for around $1,650 / £1,100. That’s a pretty significant four-figure saving on a camera that, in the grand scheme of things, really isn’t that old. And given that the L-mount lens range has spent the past four years steadily growing, the Lumix S1R has an advantage now that it did not have when it was new.

[At the time of writing, this camera is scarce in the USA, and represents less value at available prices]

With a 45.7MP sensor, the Lumix S1R isn’t technically the highest-resolution camera on the block, but it’s still very much in the conversation – and that’s still a lot of pixels. Like many contemporary cameras, it also offers a super-high resolution composite mode, which uses the in-body image stabilisation system to craft images with a whopping 187MP resolution. Elsewhere, you’ve got solid specs across the board, with 9fps continuous shooting and a respectable ISO range that retains decent image detail up to 12,800.

The image quality achieved by the Lumix S1R impressed us then, and impresses us now. It does without an anti-aliasing filter in order to maximise image sharpness. Dynamic range is generally excellent – we did a close inspection of RAW files in our review and the amount of recoverable detail in the deepest shadows of images was very good indeed.

The autofocus system on the Lumix S1R is Panasonic’s tried and tested contrast-based Depth from Defocus, which is generally fine – as long as you’re in good light. Start shooting in a gloomy setting with less than ideal conditions, and you can expect the focus system to start hunting, and the bright orange AF assist beam will draw the wrong kind of attention in the room.

Bigger = better?

The Panasonic Lumix S1R is large. With the camera body already weighing a substantial 1,020g, if you connect a full-frame lens like the Lumix S Pro 50mm f/1.4 (weighing in at 955g), you’ll have your hands full. Why so big, Panasonic? Perhaps an over-compensation following the perceived inferiority of the Micro Four Thirds Lumix G cameras. Regardless, Panasonic did shed a little after that: the Lumix S5 (which we’ll meet later on) and its successor the Lumix S5 II being less bulky.

Still, if you don’t mind a big-bodied camera, Lumix S1R does confer advantages. There is space for lots of nice big buttons and dials, the top-plate houses a mini LCD display, and there’s room inside for a 3050mAh battery. Put the S1R on power-saving LVF mode and it’s rated to for at least 1,100 shots. That’s much better than a lot of mirrorless contemporaries.

A beautiful view (finder)

It would be remiss of us not to mention one of the S1R’s most attractive features – its big, beautiful viewfinder. At the time of review, we described it as one of the most impressive we’d ever tested, and it’s still up there with the best. It was the world’s first 5.76-million-dot OLED EVF, with a 10.000:1 contrast ratio and practically non-existent lag time of 0.005secs.

There’s also no viewfinder blackout after the first frame, helping with tracking tricky moving subjects, and the default magnification can be reduced to make things easier for users with glasses. It is simply a delight to use, and a top-notch addition to what was already a very impressive camera. If you don’t mind a big system, the Lumix S1R is an excellent second-hand choice.

Read our full Panasonic Lumix S1R review.

Retailers to have a look at to find full-frame mirrorless cameras:

• www.camarthencameras.com
• www.cameraworld.co.uk
• www.cliftoncameras.co.uk
• www.ffordes.com
• www.lcegroup.co.uk
• www.mpb.com/en-uk
• www.parkcameras.com
• www.worldwidecameraexchange.co.uk
• www.wexphotovideo.com
• www.bhphotovideo.com (USA)
• www.adorama.com (USA)

You’ll find even more used kit bargains in our buying guides, or in our second-hand section.

How to choose the best second-hand full-frame mirrorless cameras

When picking a full-frame mirrorless camera on the second-hand market, consider which features and specs are most important to you. Some cameras specialise in resolution above all else, making full use of the luxurious sensor size to produce images of dazzling detail. Other users will be more interested in a fast burst rate for capturing action, or a high ISO ceiling for shooting in low light.

Much will depend on which lenses you are going to use. This is particularly relevant if you’re jumping onto full-frame mirrorless from another system like DSLRs, as you likely already have some lenses that you would rather keep.

If you’re using Canon or Nikon DSLRs, your path is easy, as both firms sell lens adapters for their full-frame mirrorless systems (Canon EOS R and Nikon Z). These adapters don’t just let you physically fit the lenses, but also allow for full functionality with autofocus and stabilisation on the vast majority of them. This allows the migration from one system to the other to be gentle and gradual, rather than immediate and expensive.

However, Canon and Nikon are annoyingly precious about keeping their RF and Z mounts to themselves, so there isn’t much of a third-party lens market out there (options exist, but they’re manual focus only). Sony, by contrast, has been very generous with licensing its full-frame E-mount to third-party manufacturers like Tamron, Sigma and Zeiss.

So, if you pick up one of the Sony Alpha full-frame cameras, you’ll have a huge suite of optics to choose from. Even if you stick with Sony-made lenses, there are loads, as Sony gained a head-start of several years on the competition. The L-mount that’s used on Panasonic full-frame cameras, meanwhile, is part of an alliance with Sigma and Leica, so there’s plenty of choice there.

Further reading:

• Best second-hand camera systems for under $1000 / £1000
• Best used cameras and lens combos under $600 / £500
• 12 best second-hand classic compact cameras
• AP readers share experiences of buying used kit

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The post Best second-hand full-frame mirrorless cameras in 2025 appeared first on Amateur Photographer.

We’ve stuck to the big names in the world of DSLRs, which are of course, Canon, Nikon and Pentax – though you’ll also find one of Sony’s Alpha DSLT (Single Lens Translucent) cameras on the list, which resemble DSLRs in form and handling. All these cameras have been tested and reviewed by our team, and we’ve ordered them roughly by price to help you figure out the right camera for your budget.

With huge lens ranges, tactile handling, optical viewfinders and rugged bodies, DSLRs are still the cameras of choice for many great photographers. We’ve got a lot of choices on this list, so don’t waste any time in getting stuck into our guide to the best used DSLRs to buy.

The best used DSLRs – quick list

Looking for the best deal on a used DSLR? Not only will you find the best DSLRs, but also some of the best deals, as our ‘Buy now’ buttons are set up to automatically take you to the best prices from trusted retailers. You’ll also find a list of other retailers below each camera, so you can find the right deal for you.

• Cheapest Nikon DSLR: Nikon D5100 – Buy now
• Cheapest Canon DSLR: EOS 600D/EOS Rebel T3i – Buy now
• Cheap beginner DSLR: Canon EOS 1200D / Rebel T5 – Buy now
• Cheapest Pentax DSLR: Pentax K-50 – Buy now
• Cheapest Full-Frame DSLR: Canon EOS 5D – Buy now
• Cheapest Full-Frame Nikon DSLR: Nikon D700 – Buy now
• Cheapest fast APS-C DSLR: Canon EOS 70D – Buy now
• Cheapest fast, high-resolution DSLR: Sony A77 II – Buy now
• Cheapest higher-end Pentax: Pentax K-3 – Buy now
• Cheapest sportier Canon DSLR: Canon EOS 7D Mark II – Buy now
• Cheapest pro-spec full-frame DSLR: Nikon D3 – Buy now
• Fast, budget APS-C workhorse: Nikon D7200 – Buy now
• Cheapest Nikon full-frame DSLR with advanced video: Nikon D600 – Buy now
• Cheap EOS 5D Mark II alternative: Canon EOS 6D – Buy now
• Cheapest high-resolution full-frame DSLR: Nikon D800 – Buy now
• Fast APS-C workhorse with powerful AF: Nikon D7500 – Buy now
• Full-frame EOS power-house: Canon EOS 5D Mark III – Buy now
• Cheapest Nikon pro-spec APS-C DSLR: Nikon D500 – Buy now
• Highest resolution Canon DSLR: Canon EOS 5DS R – Buy now

Cheapest Nikon DSLR: Nikon D5100 – from $250 / £135

At a glance:

• 16.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor
• Nikon F lens mount (APS-C)
• 4fps continuous shooting
• ISO 100-6400 (exp. 25,600)

Upon its release in 2011, the Nikon D5100 was an upper entry-level DSLR for those seeking something more advanced than the more basic D3100. While its core hardware undoubtedly shows its age now, the D5100 remains a practical and easy-to-use camera that’s capable of great image quality.

The D5100 is built around a 16.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor and Nikon’s EXPEED 2 image processor – the same components found inside the much more advanced (and proportionally more expensive) D7000, also released in 2011. So, while the D5100’s 16MP resolution doesn’t compare with that of the 24MP APS-C sensors common to many contemporary DSLRs (including the D5100’s direct descendant – the D5600), overall image quality is still very good.

Better still, while the D5100 and 18-55mm kit lens package would have cost around £750 at the time of its launch, we’ve found that second-hand camera bodies in ‘good’ condition can be picked up for around £164 from MPB.com. That’s quite a saving, and gives you scope to shop for used lenses and stay within a £250-300 budget.

Read our original review of the Nikon D5100

Cheapest Canon DSLR: EOS 600D/EOS Rebel T3i – from $300 / £140

At a glance:

• 18MP APS-C CMOS sensor
• Canon EF-S lens mount
• 3.7fps continuous shooting
• ISO 100-6400 (exp. 12,800)

The Canon EOS 600D, originally released in 2011, is now excellent value for money second-hand. Benefitting from a vari-angle rear LCD display, the EOS 600D makes light work of shooting from awkward angles, while the 9-point AF system is fast and accurate; if a little basic compared to modern cameras.

Video capabilities extend to a respectable 1080p Full HD at 30fps, while the pop-up flash doubles up as a wireless commander unit should you want to get creative with off-camera flash. Alternatively, there is the beginner-friendly Basic+ mode that takes control of key settings.

If you’re looking for a rough equivalent to the Nikon D5100 but would prefer to invest in the Canon lens system, the EOS 600D is a great starting point. Even though some of its features have aged, the image quality generated by the sensor is excellent.

The EOS 600D commands roughly the same second-hand price as the D5100, though reaches a slightly higher maximum price for the best-condition models.

Using the Canon EF-mount, there is a massive choice of Canon EF mount lenses.

Read our original review of the Canon EOS 600D

Best cheap beginner DSLR: Canon EOS 1200D / Rebel T5 – from $220 / £150

At a glance:

• 18MP APS-C CMOS sensor
• Canon EF-S lens mount
• 3fps continuous shooting
• ISO 100-6400 (exp. 12,800)

Beginner photographers can pick up a hell of a bargain if willing to shop second-hand – a case in point is the excellent EOS 1200D. Going for about a third of its original asking price, the EOS 1200D has retained a reputation as a solid, do-everything DSLR for beginners.

While you only get a burst mode of 3fps, the autofocus system is fast and accurate in a way that punches above its weight, and the low-light performance impresses. Canon rates the battery of the EOS 1200D to last around 500 shots, which should be fine for general day-to-day shooting. You can pick up a spare LP-E10 if you’re worried, though be aware this will cost around £50.

The EOS 1200D was launched into a crowded market, but the passage of time has been kind to it, and the prices you’ll find it listed at make it an excellent choice of first camera – a great gift for someone who’s starting a photography course, perhaps. A 1200D in excellent condition can be easily found for around £150, and you won’t have trouble finding a good Canon prime for less than £80.

Read our original review of the Canon EOS 1200D.

Cheapest Pentax DSLR: Pentax K-50 – from $220 / £180

At a glance:

• 16.28MP APS-C CMOS sensor
• Pentax K lens mount
• 6fps continuous shooting
• ISO 100-51,200

Pentax’s reduced market share and brand recognition in the DSLR world means its cameras can often be picked up for a good deal less than their Canon and Nikon equivalents. Enter the Pentax K-50, a highly capable enthusiast’s DSLR that’s often listed in ‘good’ condition or better for as little as £144. With Pentax’s impressive weatherproofing that features 81 weather seals, this is a great DSLR for splashing about in the mud and the wet.

Pentax has lots of weather-sealed lenses too – though it’s worth double-checking. Look for ‘AW’ or ‘WR’ in the lens name to be sure. Another thing that Pentax proved an early adopter of was image stabilisation, and even though the K-50 came out in 2013, it still sports an effective sensor-shift image stabilisation system.

This system also powers other cool functions, like the horizon-correction feature that keeps your horizontals straight, and the AstroTracer for astrophotography – though be aware this requires a Pentax GPS UNIT O-GPS1 or O-GPS2. The former can be picked up second-hand for about £60.

Read our original review of the Pentax K-50

Cheapest Full-Frame DSLR: Canon EOS 5D – from $250 / £250

At a glance:

• 12.8MP full-frame CMOS sensor
• Canon EF lens mount
• 3fps continuous shooting
• ISO 100-1600 (exp. 50-3200)

Released in 2005, Canon’s original EOS 5D is credited with being the first affordable full-frame DSLR to hit the market. While a brand new 5D body cost around £2,500 at the time of its launch, these days, it’s possible to source a second-hand example in good condition for around £250.

Given its age, it should come as no great surprise to find that many of the 5D’s core specs – such as its 9-point AF module and 2.5in/233k-dot LCD display – look fairly out-of-date by modern DSLR standards.

That said, the 5D’s 12.8MP sensor is still capable of great image quality. It’s probably not one for beginners, or for people shooting challenging moving subjects, but if you have some shooting experience and want full-frame on a budget, this is a compelling choice.

Bear in mind, though, that the 5D does not shoot video – this feature would arrive on EOS SLRs with the revolutionary 5D Mark II. A good-condition Canon EOS 5D should be priced for £199 or less. They aren’t super-common, but do appear.

Using the Canon EF-mount, there is a massive choice of Canon EF mount lenses.

Read our review of Canon EOS 5D

Cheapest Full-Frame Nikon DSLR: Nikon D700 – from $244 / £230-300

At a glance:

• 12.1MP full-frame CMOS sensor
• Nikon F lens mount
• 5fps continuous shooting
• ISO 200-6400 (exp. 100-25,600)

Announced in 2008, the D700 was essentially Nikon’s answer to the phenomenally popular Canon EOS 5D. Built around the same 12.1MP full-frame CMOS sensor used in the then-flagship Nikon D3 DSLR, the D700 further benefits from a 51-point AF system, a pop-up flash that can be used as a commander off-camera Creative Lighting System, and weather-sealed magnesium alloy construction.

Two things to note are that the D700 doesn’t provide any video recording functionality, and only comes with a single CF-type card slot, which means it cannot take regular SDXC cards. Otherwise, the D700 remains an exceptionally capable camera. Image quality is generally very good, especially at low ISOs. It produces decent results even up to ISO 12,800.

A rarity for cameras of its time! If you want to stick above ‘good’ condition, the minimum you’ll currently be paying is around £230, and the prices top out at about £300.

Using the Nikon F mount there is a massive choice of Nikon F lenses

Read our ‘Second Hand Classic’ review of the Nikon D700

Cheapest fast APS-C DSLR: Canon EOS 70D – from $300 / £160-£300

At a glance:

• 20.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor
• Canon EF-S lens mount
• 7fps continuous shooting
• ISO 100-12,800 (exp. 25,600)

From the EOS 50D to the more recent 90D, the double-digit line of Canon DSLRs for enthusiasts has retained a reputation for providing great value for money. The EOS 70D is not only great for stills, but also punches above its weight for video – this and the EOS 80D and 90D that succeeded it all proved a hit with YouTubers.

It was the first DSLR to showcase Canon’s revolutionary Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology. The small jump in resolution from the 60D went virtually unnoticed, as all attention was drawn to the way it could perform on-sensor phase-detection focusing when using live view and shooting video to improve focus acquisition and response.

The 70D’s sensor and DIGIC 5+ processor combine to offer a sensitivity range of ISO 100-12,800 (extendable to ISO 25,600), meanwhile it can shoot continuously at up to 7fps.

The AF system is borrowed from Canon’s original EOS 7D and consists of 19 points, all of which are the sensitive cross-type. It doesn’t provide a joystick to easily nudge the AF point around the frame like the newer EOS 90D, but users do get a dedicated button on the camera’s top plate to toggle through the AF modes.

The 70D’s 3in, 1.04m-dot articulated touchscreen is particularly useful when it comes to creative framing, and above it is a pentaprism-style optical viewfinder that can display a small level indicator to avoid skewed shots. As is usually the case with more-advanced DSLRs, the 70D sports a small LCD display on the top of the camera providing a quick reference point to key camera settings.

With regard to exposure modes, the 70D is served by the usual quartet of PASM modes, along with a fully automatic Auto mode and a range of specific Scene modes for less-experienced users. Finally, the EOS 70D can be picked up very reasonably indeed at a variety of outlets.

Read our original review of the Canon EOS 70D

Cheapest fast, high-resolution DSLR: Sony A77 II – from $349 / £319

At a glance:

• 24.3MP APS-C CMOS sensor
• Sony A lens mount
• 12fps continuous shooting
• ISO 100-25,600 (exp. 50)

The Sony A77 II was introduced as the ‘king of APS-C’ back in 2014, a time when Sony was pretending it was still committed to the future of A-mount cameras and lenses. With that said, the fact that most DSLR lines are now winding down makes the A-mount feel like less of an ignominiously dead end than it did a few years ago, and realistically you won’t have trouble finding a decent set of A-mount lenses second-hand – probably for more reasonable prices than Canon EF or Nikon F.

The Sony A77 II is not technically a DSLR. It’s an SLT (single lens translucent) camera with a translucent mirror and an electronic viewfinder. But it looks and feels like a DSLR in the same way a duck quacks like a duck, so we’re counting it.

And frankly, it’s a pretty impressive camera at the average used price of up to £344 or so – 12fps continuous shooting is one of the fastest burst rates in this entire guide, and that generous resolution of 24.3MP is great for printing images. A-mount may be dead, but there’s life yet in the A77 II.

Read our original review of the Sony A77 II

Cheapest higher-end Pentax: Pentax K-3 – from $450 / £350

At a glance:

• 23.35MP APS-C CMOS sensor
• Pentax K lens mount
• 8.3fps continuous shooting
• ISO 100-51,200

The Pentax K-3 isn’t as flashy as many recent DSLRs, but it’s a rugged and highly capable camera that does a good job in most conditions. Its high-quality 23.25MP APS-C sensor uses no anti-aliasing filter and can resolve an impressive level of detail.

You get a solid 100-51,200 ISO range for low-light work, and a continuous shooting rate of 8.3fps, which really is punching for a camera at this price point. Pentax was an early adopter of weather-sealing, and this DSLR will stand up to the worst a British winter has to offer and come out smiling. This does make it a little heavier than you might expect for a crop-sensor camera, but Pentax does offer a fair few lightweight prime lenses to help keep your set-up slim.

Other features include sensor-shift stabilisation, as well as dual SD card slots. Subsequent Mark II and Mark III versions have helped drive down the second-hand price of this model, and you can find ‘like new’ models for less than £400 at reputable used dealers.

Have a look at the best Pentax K-Mount lenses

Read our original review of the Pentax K-3

Cheapest sportier Canon DSLR: Canon EOS 7D Mark II – from $476 / £428

At a glance:

• 20.2 APS-C CMOS sensor
• Canon EF lens mount
• 10fps continuous shooting
• ISO 100-16,000 (exp. 51,200)

The Canon EOS 7D Mark II was introduced in 2014. It’s a nippy camera, inheriting features from Canon’s sports range. Canon’s renowned Dual Pixel sensor delivers good Live View AF, and there are 65 cross-type AF points for viewfinder AF with Intelligent Tracking and Recognition (iTR) to give improved subject tracking. Its drive can rattle along at 10fps, and when shooting RAW, you’ll get around 30 shots before buffering.

Weather-sealing is also quite robust, and having dual SD slots is no bad thing. They are also CompactFlash slots, on the off-chance you still have one of those knocking about. As is common with second-hand buying, the age of this camera does mean it’s missing a few features that these days are considered standard.

For starters, there’s no built-in Wi-Fi, and the rear LCD is both fixed in place and lacking touch-sensitivity.  The 7D Mark II was £1,599 on launch, and now you can nab one for up to £520. Lots are available in top-tier condition from reputable suppliers.

Read our original review of the Canon EOS 7D Mark II

Cheapest pro-spec full-frame DSLR: Nikon D3 – from $575 / £279

At a glance:

• 12MP full-frame CMOS sensor
• Nikon F lens mount
• 9fps continuous shooting (11fps cropped)
• ISO 200-6400 (exp. 100-25,600)

The Nikon D3 was a milestone – the first full-frame Nikon DSLR. Nikon called its new sensor ‘FX-format’, a name that would live on into its mirrorless Z cameras. Pitched at professionals, the D3 used the new EXPEED processor to deliver 9fps continuous shooting. Another first for the D3 was live view mode, allowing photographers to see what the camera was seeing in real time via the rear LCD screen.

It was pitched as a workhorse camera, with a focus on speed – even at the time, the 12MP resolution was considered a little on the low side, but it helped the processor keep up with the action. The D3’s magnesium-alloy body is rated for an impressive 300,000 shutter actuations, so you can be more forgiving when assessing whether a used body is offering good value for money.

Examples with considerably fewer actuations can be found for around £359. Frankly, long in the tooth as it may be, the Nikon D3 is a hell of a camera to pick up for less than four hundred quid.

Fast, budget APS-C workhorse: Nikon D7200 – from $588 / £429

At a glance:

• 24.2MP APS-C sensor
• Nikon F lens mount (APS-C)
• 6fps continuous shooting
• ISO 100-25,600 (exp. 102,400)

When the Nikon D7200 was launched in 2015, it was the natural successor to the D7100. It slotted in between Nikon’s upper entry-level DSLR, the D5500 and the company’s full-frame DSLR, the D750. Though it wasn’t a radical upgrade on its predecessor, it became popular with enthusiasts who wanted a reliable workhorse that could compete against other impressive APS-C DSLRs, such as the Canon EOS 7D Mark II.

The D7200 is built around a 24.2MP CMOS sensor and EXPEED 4 image processor. This combination provides a sensitivity range of ISO 100-25,600. It can be expanded to ISO 51,200 and ISO 102,000, however, these settings record in black & white only. Whereas the D7100 had a measly buffer performance, the D7200’s is much improved, capable of recording 18 14-bit lossless compressed raw files and over 100 JPEGs at its maximum 6fps burst rate.

Finally, the D7200 is a common sight on the second-hand market, so you shouldn’t struggle too hard to find a decent example.

Read our original review of the Nikon D7200

Cheapest Nikon full-frame DSLR with advanced video: Nikon D600 – from $429 / £272

At a glance:

• 24.3MP full-frame CMOS sensor
• Nikon F lens mount
• 5.5fps continuous shooting
• ISO 100-6400 (50-25,600)

At the end of 2012, the D600 was the cheapest full-frame DSLR in Nikon’s range, slotting in just below the semi-professional D800. The 24.3MP full-frame sensor is capable of excellent image quality, while the 39-point phase-detection AF system is reliable.

For getting creative with off-camera flash, the D600’s built-in flash can be used as a command unit via Nikon’s Creative Lighting System. In terms of size and build quality, the D600 remains one of the smaller full-frame DSLRs available and also benefits from magnesium alloy top and back panels alongside dust- and water-sealing.

The D600 is also decent for video, shooting Full HD video at 30p, uncompressed via HDMI. It’s got mic and headphone ports for monitoring and recording audio – a lot of these features were borrowed from the more expensive D800.

AP’s inside guide to shooting video is here

Read our original review of the Nikon D600

Canon EOS 6D – from $458 / £353 (cheaper alternative to EOS 5D Mark III)

At a glance:

• 20.2MP full-frame CMOS sensor
• Canon EF lens mount
• 4.5fps continuous shooting
• ISO 100-25,600 (exp. 50-102,800)

Announced at Photokina 2012 and released a couple of months later, the EOS 6D was marketed as a smaller and more affordable alternative to the hugely popular EOS 5D Mark III. Fulfilling this brief, the 6D borrows hardware from the 5D Mark III while also bringing some of its own to the table. For example, while the 5D Mark III was built around a 22.3MP full-frame CMOS sensor, the 6D instead employs a 20.2MP chip.

However, both cameras share the same DIGIC 5+ image processor, and both provide a native sensitivity range of ISO 100-25,600 that can be expanded to the equivalent of ISO 50-102,800.  It was released with a body-only price of £1,680 and it’s now possible to source a second-hand 6D in ‘excellent’ condition with a shutter count of less than 9,000 for just over £400.

That gives you £80 to spend on a lens (enough for a decent-condition EF 50mm f/1.8 II), and voila, a full-frame DSLR starter kit is yours for less than £500. That’s a much better bang for your buck than buying a new mid-range camera off the shelf.

Read our ‘Second Hand Classics’ review of the Canon EOS 6D

Cheapest high-resolution full-frame DSLR: Nikon D800 – from $539 / £328

At a glance:

• 36.3MP full-frame CMOS sensor
• Nikon F lens mount
• 4fps continuous shooting
• ISO 100-6400 (exp. 50-25,600)

The big draw of the D800 upon its release in 2012 was its 36.3MP full-frame sensor. At the time, this was the highest resolution of any full-frame camera on the market. While that’s obviously no longer the case these days, the D800 remains a powerful camera with well above average resolution – more than enough for large-format printing.

For those seeking a high-resolution, full-frame DSLR without the associated high costs, a decent used D800 could well make for a solid and more affordable investment than the Nikon D810 or D850.

If you don’t need all those pixels, the D800 also offers a DX crop mode, shooting instead at a still-respectable 15.3MP. The autofocus system, borrowed from the sporty D4, has 51 points, 15 of which are cross-type, so it’ll do well with fast action. It launched with a body-only price of £2,599, but second-hand it can be found for as little as £420 in ‘good’ condition or better – or under £400 if you’re lucky.

Read our original review of the Nikon D800

Fast APS-C workhorse with powerful AF: Nikon D7500 – from $850 / £840

At a glance:

• 20.9MP APS-C CMOS sensor
• Nikon F lens mount (APS-C)
• 8fps continuous shooting
• ISO 100-51,200 (exp. 50-1,640,000)

The Nikon D7500 has an impressive array of specs that includes shooting speeds up to 8 frames per second and a 51-point autofocus system that’s perfect for locking on to moving subjects.  In terms of movies, the D7500 offers the options of 4K/UHD shooting at 30p or Full HD 1080p video at up to 60p.

The D7500 inherited its DX image quality from Nikon’s nominally more expensive D500 camera, so it’s worth comparing prices of the two. One thing to note is that the D7500, for whatever reason, only arrived sporting one card slot, even though previous entries in the D7000 series had two.

This particular blind spot of Nikon’s would return to mar the otherwise successful launch of the full-frame Z mirrorless line, the first of which inexplicably sported a single XQD card slot apiece.

Read our original review of the Nikon D7500

Full-frame EOS power-house: Canon EOS 5D Mark III – from $700 / £559

At a glance:

• 22MP full-frame CMOS sensor
• Canon EF lens mount
• 6fps continuous shooting
• ISO 100-25,600 (exp. 50-102,800)

The Canon EOS 5D Mark III is an excellent full-frame camera that has thoroughly proven itself since its introduction in 2012. The 5D Mark III features a 22.3MP sensor and Digic 5+ processor, which together enable a native sensitivity range of ISO 100-25,600. In addition, there’s a 61-point autofocus system with 41 cross-type points (5 of which are diagonally sensitive) and maximum continuous shooting rate of 6 frames per second. That’s a nice combination for portrait photography, because it means you can target your subject’s eyes precisely and capture some movement if you wish to, rather than having to opt for static poses.

This camera was the first Canon DSLR capable of High Dynamic Range shooting, where three bracketed exposures are made and merged in-camera. And its Full HD video is excellent, continuing the tradition of the EOS 5D Mark II, which kick-started the DSLR revolution in professional video.

In terms of construction and build quality, the 5D Mark III is housed within a weather-sealed magnesium alloy shell and feels very much like a professional-grade DSLR should – a little weighty but incredibly solid.

Despite this, the 5D Mark III sits nicely in the hand thanks to its deep handgrip. Buttons are plentiful too, but also well-spaced and clearly labelled. Meanwhile, the in-camera menu offers plenty of advanced tools and customisation options that allow you to set the camera up exactly as you want it. The ergonomics on the EOS 5D Mark III are excellent across the board.

Second-hand prices do vary significantly. While £700 is at the upper end of what you might expect to pay for this camera, once you drop beneath this threshold, shutter actuations of used models tend to increase dramatically – you start seeing shutter counts of around 70,000 (the EOS 5D Mark III is rated to 150,000 actuations). If you plan to use the camera for a long time, it’s probably worth biting the bullet and paying for one with a lower count.

Read our original review of the Canon EOS 5D Mark III

Cheapest Nikon pro-spec APS-C DSLR: Nikon D500 – from $1,600 / £750

At a glance:

• 20.9MP APS-C CMOS sensor
• Nikon F lens mount (APS-C)
• 10fps continuous shooting
• ISO 100-25,600 (exp. 50-1,640,000)

While this pro-quality APS-C camera from 2016 is no longer cutting edge, it’s still remarkably well-featured. It can achieve an extended ISO range of 50-1,640,000, though noise performance is only tolerable up to around 51,200; it can shoot at 10fps and keep going for at least 30 frames in raw format, and 90 or more in JPEG mode with an SD card.

Put an XQD card in the second slot, and it’ll keep shooting full-speed for 200 raw frames.  One of the most exciting features of the D500 for sports and wildlife photographers is that it has the same 153-point Multi-CAM 20K autofocus module as the D5 – a camera aimed at photographers who shoot sports events professionally.

This means that amongst the D500’s 153 AF points there are 99 cross-type AF sensors with the central one being sensitive down to -4EV and the other points are sensitive down to -3EV. The D500 is quite a common sight on the second-hand market, so it’s worth shopping around for a good deal.

Read our original review of the Nikon D500

Highest resolution Canon DSLR: Canon EOS 5DS R – from $1200 / £900

At a glance:

• 50.6MP full-frame CMOS sensor
• Canon EF lens mount
• 5fps continuous shooting
• ISO 100-6400 (exp. 50-12,800)

The Canon EOS 5DS R is the priciest pick in our round-up, but when you consider that it launched with an RRP of £3,200, that second-hand price starts to look quite tasty. Launched as a pair with the Canon EOS 5DS in 2015, the EOS 5DS R represented a new frontier of DSLR resolution, boasting a sensor with a whopping 50.6MP at its disposal.

That’s still at the upper-end of full-frame resolutions today, and makes the EOS 5DS R a seriously tempting prospect for landscape photographers. Constructed to meet the needs of professional photographers, the Canon EOS 5DS R is built like a tank.

It’s designed in every way to make the most of all that detail, with a spring-less mirror assembly that minimises vibrations (which really do matter at 50MP), a reinforced tripod mount, and a USB 3.0 connection for fast image transfer.

Overall, for high-resolution photography, this is one of the savviest second-hand buys you can make.

Read our original review of the Canon EOS 5DS R

How to choose the best used DSLR?

Condition: For each camera, we’ve given a rough guide to the price you can expect to pay for one in ‘good’ condition or better. As a rule, this is a good level to stick to. Cameras listed as ‘well-used’ or ‘heavily used’ can be had for less, of course, but this is risky.

Sensor size: Should you go for a full frame or an APS-C model? APS-C DSLRs can take great images, but on the used market the price gap has narrowed, and you may be able to step up to the higher quality of a full frame DSLR without spending too much more cash.

Shutter count: With some DSLRs, it’s possible to check the number shutter actuations (i.e. how many times the shutter has been fired) – most DSLRs are rated for a life of somewhere between 150,000 and 300,000. While the vast majority can and will keep shooting long after they’ve passed their actuations rating, it’s still worth thinking twice before buying a camera with a high actuation count.

One more thing – our listings are accurate at the time of writing. The prices quoted are snapshots and, therefore, subject to change at any moment. The second-hand camera market is a fast-moving place! Snooze and you lose, as we say.

Related reading:

• How to get the best price for your used camera and lens
• Buyers guide to the best Canon DSLRs
• Buyers guide to the best Nikon DSLRs

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The post Best used DSLRs in 2025 appeared first on Amateur Photographer.

35mm film photography has been around since the early 1900s and doesn’t need to be complicated. It can be as simple as using a disposable point and shoot camera, or as complicated as using a manual focus SLR with manual settings and a light-meter. Whichever option you go for, this guide to film photography will help get you started, so you can enjoy creative photography.

The slower and more thoughtful pace of analogue photography is a magical experience. Lacking the “digital” feel of modern cameras, some film cameras of the past exude “feel”; you could even say soul…

We have several articles that take readers from the beginnings of photography through to a broader appreciation of the craft. These introduce different shooting skills and styles that will see you grow as a photographer and enjoy producing amazing photography (and video). From there you will have the scope and knowledge to go your own way: be it to master the art form, try to make money from it, or specialise in a certain genre.

Have fun exploring these guides and creating great images as you do. If you find our articles helpful, don’t forget to share them with people you know who may be interested in learning new photography skills. There is a list of others at the foot of this article.

In this introduction to analogue film photography for beginners, we cover all you need to know to get started, and explain some of the jargon involved with film photography…

How does film photography work?

Film is a strip of plastic (or similar material) that is coated with light-sensitive emulsion and when this is exposed to light, there is a chemical reaction that records the image in the emulsion on the film. As long as this isn’t exposed to light again, it remains stable, and can then be developed (processed) and printed or scanned to show you the photo you’ve taken. It’s a bit like magic, but it’s actually been refined over 100+ years by people like Kodak, Fujifilm, Ilford and others.

Analog vs Digital photography

Digital photography makes taking photographs easy, with little concern for cost per photo. In fact, once you have a camera and memory card, photos cost you nothing. You could take thousands upon thousands – and then be left with the arduous task of going through them to find the best ones.

Film photography changes this, because you have a limited number of shots (24 or 36), and each one costs money; both for the film cost, and then the development of those photos. With all this in mind, you’re forced to slow down, and make each shot count. It sharpens one’s own focus to try to optimise each and every shot, or capture a special moment in front of you – moments you want to remember.

Why shoot film photographs?

Shooting with film is a slower process, with more time to think; especially if you’re using a manual camera, and remember how much film and film processing costs. However, shooting with a point and shoot is a fun experience as you capture memorable moments that mean something, without having to worry about expensive camera kit.

If you’re looking for a fresh challenge, and want to learn how photography was done before digital cameras, it is a useful experience. There are also excitement and suspense as you wait to see how your photos will turn out.

Getting started in film photography, you’ll need:

• A film camera
• Film
• Batteries (if the camera uses them)
• Once you’ve finished shooting, you’ll need to develop the film roll

The simplest way to start is with 35mm film. It’s the most widely available, and the most easily developed, processed and printed. It’s also the most cost effective, with cheap films available from around £5 / $5, as well as a wide range of 35mm film cameras from simple point and shoots, to more advanced options, from as little as £10-15 / $10 (used).

1. Finding a film camera

You’ll find film cameras in almost every charity shop you go past, sometimes with a neat carry case and additional lenses. There are also a wide range of places you can find them online, but before you start, here’s a quick look at some of the most popular choices to get you started.

New film cameras:

There are a small number of new film cameras available, and most of these are budget or “toy” cameras, where quality is not of paramount importance. They can be a good option if you just want a point and shoot camera, and don’t want a disposable camera, but most offer only one shutter speed, and a slow lens, and there are better second-hand options for less money (see below).

• Reto Ultra Wide and Slim (£35)
• Lomography Simple Use Film Camera (£35)
• Ilford Sprime 35-II (£39)

However, one of the cheapest and easiest ways to get a taste for film photography, is to look at a cheap disposable camera, often these can be cheaper than buying some film, and if you just want to dip your toes in, then have a look at our guide to the best disposable film cameras.

Used film cameras:

For a high-quality 35mm film camera, you’ll need to look at second-hand and used options. With this there are several things to be aware of. The older the camera, the more likely it is to not work properly, or there may be light leaks, as seals degrade over time.

You’ll also need to decide if you’re going to go for a compact camera, a manual SLR camera, with manual focus and controls, or a more modern SLR with auto focus and controls.

Compact 35mm cameras:

You can go for a compact 35mm film camera, and there are plenty of point and shoot options, with either a fixed lens, or a zoom lens. Look for models with a large optical viewfinder, and built-in flash, as well as autofocus and you’ll most likely find a camera that’s easy to use. Zoom cameras tend to offer slower operation, and the lenses aren’t as bright as fixed focal length cameras.

For more 35mm film compact cameras have a look at our guide to the best compact film cameras.

Fixed focal length film cameras:

You can go for a classic film camera with a metal body, such as the Olympus 35 RC, shown above, or look for a budget point and shoot, such as the Pentax PC-550 (around £20+). Some models carry a premium due to the small size, and bright lens on offer, as is the case with the Olympus MJU II, with f/2.8 lens. As with any old camera, check everything is working as expected, and none of the fragile plastics are broken.

• Pentax PC-550 – around $85 / £30
• Olympus XA2 – around $65 / £65
• Olympus MJU-I – around $250 / £200
• Olympus MJU-II – around $300 / £300
• Olympus 35 RC – around $125 / £140

For more fixed lens film camera options, have a look at the best fixed lens 35mm film cameras.

35mm half-frame cameras

Another alternative is the half-frame camera of yesteryear: where half-frame equates to half the cost, as the film outputs twice as many pictures in this format. Read our excellent guide to our favourites that contains some fascinating insights into their history.

Manual SLR cameras:

Manual SLRs have the advantage of being more compact than autofocus SLRs, and often use minimal battery power (some are even battery free), meaning you can go weeks or months without worrying about the battery running out.

They also offer great value for money, and solid metal build quality, but due to the age of these cameras, it’s a good idea to check if the built-in light meters still work, and whether they’ve been serviced.

Classic manual SLR options:

• Pentax K1000 – from £90
• Olympus OM-1 – from £70
• Nikon FM – from £75

These are some of our favourites, but you’ll find more options in our guide to manual SLR cameras.

Automatic SLR cameras:

Automatic cameras such as the Canon EOS 100 still give you manual controls if you want them, as well as the option to use manual focus, but the nice thing is that you can use them in a fully automatic mode making them easier to use for beginners, whilst still giving the high-quality images you’d expect from an SLR. Another nice feature is that they remain extremely good value-for-money, being less popular than manual SLRs.

Here are some great options for autofocus SLRs:

• Canon EOS 100 – from £15
• Minolta Dynax 7000 – from £25
• Minolta Dynax 7000i – from £20
• Nikon D90 – from £50

As with digital SLRs and mirrorless cameras, film SLR cameras let you change the lens you use, and it’s important to make sure you know what lens mount the camera has when looking for a new lens. There are lots of options available, often very affordable.

These are just some of the different types of 35mm film cameras, and there are a wider variety of options including panoramic, and stereo cameras – see our guide to 35mm film cameras.

Film cameras to avoid:

Unless you’re a glutton for punishment, then APS and 110 film cameras are best avoided, as you’re likely to find it very difficult to find film, and processing services, for these.

If you do want to give 110 film a go, then Analogue Wonderland and Lomography still sell new film, and there are a still some companies that process 110 film. You’re extremely unlikely to be able to find any APS film new or in stock, although you can still get it processed. Because of this, you’ll often spot “bargain” priced APS and 110 film cameras, but unless you’re dedicated, we wouldn’t recommend it!

It’s worth pointing out that 110 film and APS film are much smaller than 35mm film and were never known to give particularly good results.

Where to buy?

You’ll find a wide variety of online retailers that sell new and second-hand film cameras, but it can also be worth checking out local stores to see if they have any in stock, as seeing them in person can give you a better idea of the size and condition of the items.

Once you do have a film camera, make sure you learn how to look after it in our guide on how to maintain your film camera, or if you already have an old camera that needs repairing, have a look at our guide to repairing cameras.

2. Buying 35mm film…

Film photography is continuing to grow in popularity, with Ilford, Kodak, and Fujifilm remaining the big players in terms of film production. In fact, Ilford are continuing to grow thanks to film sales.

Types of 35mm film… (also known as 135 film)

To keep things simple, we’ll keep this brief, and say that the main types of 35mm film camera are colour and black and white negative film. Each photo is 35mm wide, hence the name. This is also why a full-frame digital camera is called a “full-frame” camera, because the sensor matches the 35mm wide film in size.

With 35mm film you get the choice of whether you want 24 exposures (shots) or 36 exposures (shots), with the 36 exposure film being more expensive than 24.

You also need to pay attention to the ISO speed on offer – if you’re shooting in bright sunny conditions, then ISO100 is a good choice, but if you plan on shooting in low-light or want to use flash then ISO400 or higher would be a good choice.

Nb. Most common films are “negative” film (producing a negative image of the scene), but be aware that some film is known as “positive” or “slide” film, and these will need more professional film processing.

What is ISO / ASA in film photography?

ISO, previously known as ASA, is quite simply, the sensitivity of the film. ISO400 is more sensitive to light than ISO100, and will therefore need a shorter exposure for the same scene. You can get film with an ISO rating up to ISO800 or even ISO3200, but as is the case with digital cameras, the higher the ISO speed, the larger the grain on the film, and the more noise/grain will be visible in the image, and the “rougher” the image will look. If you’re shooting film at night, then a high ISO speed film is essential.

What is “Process” or C-41?

Most colour film is processed using the C-41 process, and this is what the majority of film processing labs support. It’s the chemical process used to develop the film, and turn it into processed negatives.

You’ll find some black and white film also uses C-41 process, and this makes it cheaper and easier to find places that will process black and white film. A common black and white film that uses the C-41 process is Ilford XP2. If you’re planning on developing your own black and white film, then traditional black and white film is what you want.

More on shooting black and white film: Why we still shoot black and white film.

3. Developing your film – do you want prints or digital scans?

If you live in a city, it’s likely there will be a camera shop that will develop photos for you, taking the film and processing it so you have negatives. From these negatives, it used to be the norm that you would get your photos back as 6x4inch or 7x5inch photos, with a choice of Matt or Gloss. Now you also get the choice of whether to have digital copies of these (often as JPEG images), which they will be able to provide on CD or as a digital download link, emailed directly to you.

You don’t even need to get prints these days, but we still think there’s something nice about getting all your photos back as printed photos, including the smell.

If you want to take more control over your scans, you can use professional film developing services which will allow you to give additional instructions regarding how you want the photos to be dealt with – find more on this here: Dan Rubin: film photography and scanning tips.

Do you want to scan your own negatives?

You could even scan your own negatives once they’ve been processed, and there are a variety of ways to do this:

• Using a dedicated film scanner, however premium film scanners are often hard to find, with better ones being very expensive, and new budget models lacking quality.
• Using a smartphone and adapter, such as the Lomography Smartphone Scanner, this is a quick and easy method, and gives good enough results for sharing on social media etc.
• Using a Mirrorless camera or DSLR to take photographs of the film – this method is relatively easy with the right kit, such as a light box, a camera, and a macro lens, and should give the best quality possible.

If you need more convincing on the magic of film photography, and want to know how it works in more detail, have a look at this great video from SmarterEveryDay:

Taking it to the next level – Advanced film photography:

For more advanced film photographers, you can look into processing your own film in our Essential Guide to Film Processing, and even printing your own photos in a darkroom in our Essential Guide to Darkroom Printing.

Article and lead image: Joshua Waller

More on film photography: 

• An introduction to medium format film photography
• How to do film photography on a budget

• Beginners guide to different camera types.
• Beginners guide to different lens types.
• Beginners guide to using a camera taking photos.
• Beginners guide to Exposure, aperture, shutter, ISO, and metering.
• Understanding white balance settings and colour
• 10 essential cameras accessories for beginners
• Beginners guide to the Art of photography and composition
• Beginners guide to Photoshop Elements and editing photos
• Beginners guide to Portrait Photography
• Beginners guide to Macro Photography
• Beginners guide to Street Photography
• Beginners guide to Landscape Photography
• How to shoot Action and Sports Photography
• How to shoot wildlife photography
• Raw vs JPEG – Pros and cons
• How to create stunning black and white images
• How to photograph events and music
• Pet photography – how to photograph pets
• The ultimate guide to flash photography
• The ultimate guide to tripods
• Create awesome photos with light painting
• Beginners guide to file and photo management
• How to shoot food photography
• Complete guide to outdoor light
• Top tips for stunning car photography
• How to master waterfall photography
• How to use social media as a photographer

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The post How to get started in film photography – a beginners guide appeared first on Amateur Photographer.

Why are people so interested in vintage digital cameras?

For the unique photographic experience – Thanks to early digital cameras often struggling in ways modern digital cameras and smartphones don’t, it can give people a somewhat unique photography experience. Some older cameras are more likely to feature an optical viewfinder, a rarity on today’s compact cameras. There’s also nostalgia, and if you once owned one of these cameras, buying it again can bring back a flood of nostalgia, especially if you get one that’s still in the box.

For the aesthetic look of the images – Older cameras often struggle with low-light, sometimes struggling with focus, with massively lower dynamic range to boot, giving some photos the look of film photography. In fact, many early digital cameras, sometimes referred to as “Y2K digicam“, are downright terrible compared to modern cameras and smartphones, but this is part of the appeal for maximum aura.

By not being as truly perfect as modern cameras and smartphones, they have become the obvious choice to some people for creative and fun photography. The icing on the cake being that you can sometimes find them for a bargain price, with some cameras available for as little as $20 / £20.

Here we run through some of the more interesting highlights from the history of compact digital cameras, although be warned, some of these are now quite sought after, and can command premium prices, becoming collectors items in their own right. Also, whilst some of these may have been very good at the time, they don’t always stack up anymore (although this could make them even more appealing).

• Find more great retro looking cameras in our guide to Fujifilm X100VI alternatives.

Another issue to be aware of is having to try and find working cameras, as many old digital cameras simply stop working, so pay close attention to what you’re buying.

If you do go for a budget model, this may free you up to stop caring about carrying around an expensive camera, meaning you can take your camera to places you wouldn’t normally want to risk it, and the compact size could make it more suitable for street photography.

CCD vs CMOS sensor in digital cameras?

People might tell you that you want an early digital camera with CCD sensor, for a more “film like” image rendering, however, what you’ll most likely find is that with any older digital camera noise is worse, and dynamic range is much lower than modern cameras, and therefore correct exposure becomes all the more important.

Early digital cameras mostly used CCD sensors, and it was only the cheaper models that used CMOS sensors. Often CMOS sensors were seen as the low-quality choice, but all that changed with the introduction of high-speed CMOS sensors in some cameras, and then with the introduction of BSI CMOS sensor (backside-illuminated), image quality took a big step forward in giving better noise performance.

Older digital cameras often used a CCD sensor, rather than a CMOS sensor, so if you’re looking for the best compact cameras with a CCD sensor, then this list is a great starting point:

Quick List:

• Fujifilm F10 (and subsequent 6MP models)
• Ricoh GR Digital (and subsequent) – non-APS-C version
• Olympus C-750 / C-765
• Canon Powershot S90/S95
• Sigma DP1/DP1s/DP1x
• Sony Cyber-shot R1
• Olympus PEN E-P1
• Canon Powershot G2
• Leica Digilux 2
• Casio Exilim S100
• Contax i4r
• Lego Camera

Many of these cameras come from the era when the point-and-shoot camera was all the rage, so if you’re expecting full manual controls and raw shooting, you’ll need to be careful what you choose. In no particular order…

Fujifilm F10 (6MP, 2005) / F30 / F31fd (2006)

Alternatives: Fujifilm F11 (6MP, 2005), F30 (6MP, 2006), F31fd (6MP, 2006)

The first Fujifilm Finepix F10 was somewhat magic back in the day, it made a massive leap forward in low-light performance, and the ability to deal with noise, meaning that for the first time ever you could use high ISO speeds in a compact camera, without recoiling in horror!

“The Fujifilm F31fd is perhaps the crème-de-la-crème of old vintage digital cameras.” – Joshua Waller

This line of cameras was continued with the F11, F30, F31fd, using the same impressive 6MP sensor. Things were never really the same when the following F40fd / F45fd which came out with an 8MP sensor, and then when Fujifilm jumped to a 12MP sensor, some of the magic was gone, leaving these early 6MP digital cameras still sought after today, and the true cult classic.

Worth noting: These cameras use XD memory cards, which are available in sizes up to 2GB. There was also a budget version, the Fujifilm F20 (2006).

Price from $60+, £50+

Ricoh GR Digital (8MP, 2005)

Alternatives: Ricoh GR Digital II (10MP, 2007), Ricoh GR Digital III (10MP, 2009), Ricoh GR Digital IV (10MP, 2011)

No, not the new APS-C versions, but the original compact cameras with a compact sensor to match. These cameras challenged the status quo by giving you no zoom, instead a 28mm equivalent fixed focal length lens, with auto-focus. If you wanted to change the focal length, you would have to buy the optional wide-angle or telephoto adapters, or crop the image.

The macro performance of this camera was quite good, but focus was also slow and not the most reliable thing in the world. Snap focus was available for street photography, and speed, but with pre-set focus you may not always get perfect focus. Perhaps this was part of the charm, and combined with the compact size, this was a fun camera to use, even if the results weren’t always reliable. I spent a lot of time shooting with the Ricoh GR Digital III, and remember it being an enjoyable camera to use (despite the sometimes unreliable results).

You could look out for the Ricoh GR Digital, GR Digital II, or GR Digital III, or even newer versions (GR Digital IV, 2011), if you’re struggling to find one.

Highlights: Smaller than your average 35mm film compact, an optional optical viewfinder could be added, if your battery went flat you could use 2x AAA batteries instead. Uses SD memory cards. The GR Digital IV adds sensor-shift image stabilisation.

Price from $175+, £150

Read our Ricoh GR Digital review.

Olympus C-750 (2003) / C-765 (2004)

Some of the first true ultra-zoom cameras – these were incredibly well made for a “compact camera” with lovely metal bodies. It wasn’t until 2006 when Panasonic released a similar camera with the 10x optical zoom Panasonic Lumix TZ1.

The Olympus C-765 was an improvement over the C-750, with a new camera body it was the “World’s smallest” 10x zoom digital camera, and features a 4MP CCD sensor. The lens went from a 38mm equivalent to 380mm – and whilst that’s not very wide-angle, at the time it was fairly normal for the wide-angle end of a compact camera to not be very wide at all.

Image quality is definitely something that pales in comparison to modern cameras, and without any form of image stabilisation, you’ll need to pay attention to light levels, or use the built-in pop-up flash. A super macro mode lets you focus on objects that are 3cm away, and this camera features a VGA video mode, but with just 15fps you might not want to use this feature (unless you want to recreate the Super 8 look).

When released it was $499 / £399, making it an expensive camera, and one I used to dream of buying. This makes the $25 / £25+ price on eBay practically a bargain!

Highlights: Uses XD memory cards, metal bodied camera, exposure compensation is adjusted using the left and right arrows on the back

Price from $25+, £20+

Canon Powershot S90 (2009) /S95 (2010)

This was amazing for the size – and perfectly capable of being used for events, as long as you were going to use the images online. In fact, the inclusion of this camera is one up for debate, as the camera delivers great results, and may not stand out as particularly interesting. However, we recommend using exposure compensation set to -0.3EV and select vivid colour, and you’ll get some memorable shots.

The Canon Powershot S90 and S95 feature a CCD sensor, and from the S100 onwards Canon switched to a BSI CMOS sensor. There’s not a lot of difference between the S90 and S95, but Canon did start adding features to improve dynamic range with the S95, with an HDR mode and dynamic range options.

Highlights: Uses SD memory cards, shoots RAW

Also worth noting, that there’s the Canon Powershot S200 which also features a CCD sensor and was available for a bargain price, but is missing some key features such as raw shooting.

Price from $50-99+, £40-90+

Sigma DP1 (2008) / DP1s (2009) / DP1x (2010)

This is a unique vintage digital camera, with not only an APS-C sized sensor, but features what some consider the holy grail of sensors the FOVEON X3 sensor no less. It was incredibly small for a compact APS-C camera at the time, and has a lovely metal body, with simplistic styling and design.

Designed to give you “film” like results, the camera was so poor at higher ISO speeds, you had to use ISO50 or ISO100 only, and with an f/4 lens, this meant using it on sunny days or forever using a tripod or solid surface when taking photos.

The key to the Foveon sensor was true R,G,B colour information for every pixel, but the rapid increase in megapixels over the years made this matter less and less, as without interpolation, the Sigma DP1 series output 4.69megapixel images.

The other thing you needed to do was shoot RAW images for the best results, and this made this camera a real pain to use as the earliest models didn’t give you the option to shoot raw and JPEG at the same time!

Did we mention that to process the raw files, you had to use Sigma Photo Pro? An incredibly slow piece of software. Luckily these days, Photoshop can cope with this cameras raw files.

Fairly rare and now fairly expensive, the DP1 cameras can be found from around $200, and it wasn’t that they gave particularly good images (some may disagree), but the camera is unique in being one of very few cameras with a Foveon sensor.

Be warned though, time has not been kind to this camera, and you’ll find this quite a slow camera to use.

Highlights: Foveon sensor, metal body, uses SD memory cards (max size 2GB)

Side note: The Sigma DP2 cameras use a different lens with an f2.8, 41mm equivalent lens, with the DP2s (2010), DP2x (2011), and the only other compact camera, outside of Sigma’s cameras, to feature a Foveon sensor was the Polaroid x530, an extremely rare camera, for a variety of reasons.

Price from $180+, £150+

Cheapest APS-C camera: Sony Cyber-shot R1 (2005)

How does a 10MP APS-C CMOS sensor, crazy DSLR-like styling, an LCD screen on the top, and a 5x optical zoom lens sound? Need we say more? Well, yes, there’s plenty to say about this camera, with a Carl Zeiss branded f/2.8-4.8 aperture zoom lens with manual zoom ring, giving 24-120mm equivalent, the camera covers all the bases.

It’s difficult to find one in good condition, as the plastic build quality of the camera doesn’t particularly stand up to the ravages of time. But as long as you get a working camera with a clean lens you should still be able to use it, even if it is beat up a bit. With both raw and JPEG shooting, you can take some lovely images, and benefit from modern image processing, that is much better at dealing with noise in comparison to the camera’s own noise processing.

Highlights: CompactFlash or Sony Memory Sticks are supported, 10MP APS-C CMOS sensor

Price from $130+, £110+

Olympus PEN E-P1 (2009, 12MP)

This retro styled digital camera now looks truly vintage again, the first Micro Four Thirds camera from Olympus, this camera is capable of producing beautiful colours with great saturation. Paired with a pancake lens such as the Panasonic 14mm f/2.5, Olympus 17mm f/2.8, or Panasonic 20mm f/1.7 (shown above), focus may not be very quick, in fact it’ll seem downright slow compared to today’s cameras, but it should provide a lovely pocketable camera with a “real camera” feel.

The camera body is solidly made with a metal shell, and this gives it a real heftiness. Keep an eye out for the follow up model, the Olympus PEN E-P2, which is just as good. As this is getting older, it is also getting rarer, which is pushing up the price of this camera.

Highlights: Uses SDHC memory cards, with support for cards up to 32GB, metal build

Price from $120+, £100+

There is a massive range of affordable Micro Four Thirds lenses available.

Canon PowerShot G2 (4MP, 2001)

Alternatives: Canon Powershot G1 (3MP, 2000), Canon Powershot G3 (4MP, 2002)

This classic from the heady early years of consumer digital cameras was quite high-end in its day, being aimed very much at film SLR users. At a time when major advances appeared seemingly every month, it stood out by being arguably the best camera of its type for an entire year.

The G2 used the same design as its predecessor, the 3MP G1, but with softer, curvier styling. It’s conventionally laid out, with both an optical viewfinder and a fully articulated screen. You get a 4MP CCD sensor that offers ISO 50-400 along with a large aperture zoom lens, giving a useful 34-102mm equivalent range at f/2 – 2.5.

You can shoot either JPEG or raw files, but not at the same time – Canon users had to wait for the G3 for that level of sophistication. The JPEGs look great, with attractive colours, while modern software can get much more out of the raw files than was possible at the time.

The G2 is also surprisingly pleasant to use, with a control layout that places most of what you need at your fingertips. If you want the fun factor of classic digital without clunky handling or weird colours in your pictures, it’s a great choice.

Highlights: The camera uses compact flash cards, and the chunky BP-511 battery gives a decent number of shots per charge. Accessories include wide-angle and teleconverters, and you can use Canon EX flashguns on the hot shoe.

Prices from $65/£70 – Andy Westlake

Leica Digilux 2 (2003)

A rather special collaboration between Leica and Panasonic, the Leica Digilux 2 is plagued by issues that mean it’s rare to find a working camera these days, unless it was lucky enough to be repaired by Leica.

Not only was the camera affected by the batch of faulty 5MP Sony sensors (dealt with by Leica’s recall / repair policy), it was also a rather complicated camera. The gorgeously large zoom lens (28-90mm equivalent) makes the camera more similar in size to a large mirrorless camera, rather than a “compact camera”. If you can find one of these that works, you be rewarded with lovely looking images.

Sadly, these days, you’re going to be very lucky to find a working model for a reasonable price, as you’ll need to find one that’s been repaired. This can easily push the price to well over $400 for this truly classic camera.

Highlights: Uses SD cards, but with a maximum size of 2GB.

Why the Leica Digilux 2 is the first classic digital camera

Price from $360+, £300+

Casio EXILIM S100 (3.2MP, 2004)

Any Casio Exilim digital camera would be a great choice, but in particular the Casio Exilim S100 is the camera of choice – ultra-compact, ultra-stylish, and another camera with a metal body.

This was the world’s first compact camera with a ceramic lens. The camera has a 3MP sensor, and a 2.8x optical zoom lens. It’s also got a fun split photo mode, letting you stick together two different people’s heads for creative fun!

The Casio Exilim S100, like a lot of compact digital cameras from the time, originally came with a docking station so that when you wanted to transfer images or charge the battery you would simply put the camera onto the docking station. So for the true classic compact camera experience, make sure you look for a camera with all the accessories!

Highlights: Uses SD memory cards. Try and get one with the docking station, for the true experience of vintage digital cameras.

Price from $25+, £20+

Most expensive: Contax i4r (4MP, 2004)

Why is the Contax i4r so expensive?

Well, have you seen it? It looks like a luxurious bottle of perfume rather than a digital camera. There’s also the fact that Contax (Kyocera) were never really a mainstream brand in the world of digital cameras, so that makes these cameras increasingly rare.

This camera has a fixed focal length f/2.8 Zeiss lens with AF, and it’s worth noting that any other digital camera with a fixed focal length lens, rather than a zoom lens, is going to give you a unique look and experience compared to often slower zoom lenses.

Whilst this camera is very rare and quite good, but it’s debateable as to whether it’s really worth the very high prices being asked for these now, unless you are seriously in love with the style.

Highlights: Uses SD memory cards, available in silver, black, or red.

Price: Over $450-800, £400-650+ – if you want a similar camera, simply go for Canon Digital IXUS i or i5.

For fun: Lego Camera by Digital Blue – (3MP, 2009)

A true toy camera this was an officially licenced Lego product, meaning you could build extra Lego onto the camera, although unfortunately you can’t take it apart. This camera produces low quality 3MP images, but has the benefit of a true Xenon flash, giving you the potential for over-exposed photos synonymous with disposable film cameras. It’ll also make you the envy of the party if you show up with this camera!

This camera has 128MB of built-in memory good for a reasonable amount of photos, but if you have any problems connecting the camera to your computer, then you may find you’re unable to get the photos off the camera! Released in 2009, this camera is recognised by a Windows XP PC, but not one running Windows 10.

Highlights: 128MB of internal memory. Real Lego pieces can be attached to the camera. Real Xenon flash included.

Rare but they sometimes pop-up on that well-known auction site, from $50 to $110+, £40 to £80+.

Other fun / stylish and unique vintage digital cameras to look out for: #digitalcamera

• Canon Powershot SD40 / Canon Digital IXUS i7 Zoom (and earlier version)
• Sony Cyber-shot L1 (rare)
• Olympus Mju Mini Digital (Sylus Verve) / Mju Mini S
• Fujifilm Digital Q1 (2MP, 2003) (Rare)
• Fujifilm V10 – digital camera with built-in games
• Nikon Coolpix S6900 – with selfie screen, front shutter button and kickstand!

If you’re looking for more inspiration, have a look at our guide to retro Fujifilm X100VI alternatives, or our guide to the worst digital cameras, or why not have a look at more second-hand options.

Why would you buy a second hand compact camera, when you can buy a new compact digital camera?

Some people may be thinking, what’s the point buying a vintage digital camera, when you can buy a new compact camera? The main problem is that you need to spend over $400/£400 to buy a new compact camera from a main brand, like Canon, Sony, Panasonic, Nikon etc.

At the lower end of the market there are very few companies still making new compact cameras, and the unbranded models are often of questionable quality. If you do want to look at a new compact camera for around $100/£100, then have a look at the Kodak PixPro FZ45, which performs quite well, but make sure you avoid models like the AgfaPhoto DC8200!

Plus have a look at our detailed video on a variety of vintage digital cameras:

Related reading:

• Get the retro film look with your digital images
• Get the black and white film look with digital cameras
• Best vintage lenses to look at for the retro look

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