Best Budget Cameras for Photography & Videography Beginners
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Starting photography or videography can be overwhelming, especially when faced with an array of brands, models, and price points. If you’re on a budget but still want a solid camera that can last for years, you don’t have to spend a fortune. In this guide, we’ll break down two of the best budget cameras—the Sony ZV-E10 Mark 1 and the Sony A6100—and why they are great choices for beginners.
Why These Two Cameras?
The Sony ZV-E10 Mark 1 and Sony A6100 both sit at the sweet spot of affordability and quality. Available for around $599 new or $500 used, they offer impressive specs that can keep up for the next 3-5 years. Plus, if you buy during holiday sales, you can grab extra accessories like SD cards or a camera bag as part of a bundle.
Most creators recommend the older Sony A6000, which is even cheaper, but keep in mind that it has been discontinued. More importantly, the A6100 and ZV-E10 feature superior autofocus and color science, making them worth the small price increase.
Key Similarities
Both the Sony A6100 and Sony ZV-E10 Mark 1 share a lot of similarities:
- 24MP Sensor – Perfect for capturing high-quality images
- 4K Video at 30FPS & 1080p at 120FPS – Crisp footage for video creators
- Interchangeable Lenses – Future-proofing your setup
- Compact & Lightweight – Ideal for travel and everyday use
- Microphone Port – Allows for external mic use to improve audio
- Same Battery Type – Easy to swap batteries when needed
However, they do differ in key areas that may influence your decision based on whether you prioritise photography or videography.
Sony A6100 – A Photo-Centric Powerhouse
The Sony A6100 is primarily a photography-first camera but still offers solid video performance. Here’s what makes it stand out:
✅ Electronic Viewfinder (EVF): Perfect for shooting in bright outdoor environments. The ZV-E10 lacks this feature.
✅ Flip-Up Screen: Instead of flipping out to the side, it flips up—great for vlogging and selfies.
✅ More Classic Camera Feel: It looks and feels like a traditional camera, which some photographers prefer.
However, it lacks picture profiles like S-Log3, which means there are fewer options for color grading. But if you’re a beginner, this isn’t a dealbreaker.
Sony ZV-E10 – A Video-Centric Beast
The Sony ZV-E10 Mark 1 is tailored for video creators, with extra features designed to enhance your recording experience:
✅ Flip-Out Screen: Ideal for vertical content creation on TikTok & Instagram Reels
✅ Electronic Image Stabilisation: Helps keep footage steady, though it does crop the image slightly
✅ Better Onboard Microphone: Provides improved audio quality without an external mic
✅ Picture Profiles Available: Includes options like S-Log3, making it more versatile for advanced video creators
That said, its biggest downside is that the new Mark 1 version removed the mechanical shutter, which can cause banding issues under certain artificial lighting conditions.
Best Budget Lenses to Buy
A good lens can make all the difference in both photography and videography. If you really want to enhance the quality of your shots, investing in a solid prime lens is a must.
Top Lens Choices:
1️⃣ Sony 35mm f/1.8 OSS – Best for handheld video thanks to Optical SteadyShot (OSS)
2️⃣ Sigma 30mm f/1.4 – Slightly cheaper and great for achieving a cinematic look
Both of these lenses offer great low-light performance and beautiful background blur, making them fantastic upgrades over the standard kit lens.
Cost Breakdown
Here’s what you can expect to spend depending on whether you buy new or used:
| Camera & Lens Combo | New Price | Used Price |
|---|---|---|
| Sony A6100 + Sigma 30mm f/1.4 | $900 | $700 |
| Sony ZV-E10 + Sigma 30mm f/1.4 | $900 | $700 |
| Sony A6100 + Sony 35mm f/1.8 OSS | $1,223 | $800 |
| Sony ZV-E10 + Sony 35mm f/1.8 OSS | $1,223 | $800 |
Both setups will last you 3-5 years before needing an upgrade, and even then, simply switching lenses can refresh your camera’s capabilities.
Where is Best to Buy Used Budget Cameras Safely
If you want to save money, buying a used camera is a great option. Just make sure to shop from reputable sources like:
✅ Local Camera Stores – Many offer warranties on used models
✅ KEH.com – Specialises in inspected and graded used cameras
✅ B&H & Adorama – Occasionally sell open-box or refurbished units
✅ Facebook Marketplace – Only buy if you know what to check for in a used camera
Final Thoughts – What are the Best Budget Cameras?
If you’re mostly into photography, go for the Sony A6100 for its electronic viewfinder and classic camera feel.
If you’re leaning towards videography, the Sony ZV-E10 is the better pick thanks to its flip-out screen, stabilisation, and better built-in mic.
No matter which one you choose, pairing it with a great lens will dramatically improve your results—often more than upgrading the camera itself.
Are you ready to start your photography and videography journey without breaking the bank? Either of these best budget cameras will give you a solid foundation! 🚀
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Zachary Skinner is the editor of TechDrivePlay.com, where tech, cars and adventure share the fast lane.
A former snowboarding pro and programmer, he brings both creative flair and technical know-how to his reviews. From high-performance cars to clever gadgets, he explores how innovation shapes the way we move, connect and live.
