Here are the “best value” recommendations for all major DSLR systems, split by sensor size and brand.
Click the links to see the detailed roundup page:
🟥 Canon APS-C (EF-S Mount)
Used By: Canon Rebel series, 70D/80D/90D, 7D, etc.
Lens Mount: Canon EF-S (also accepts EF lenses)
Highlights: Budget-friendly primes, STM lenses for video, tons of third-party support
🟥 Canon Full Frame (EF Mount)
Used By: 5D series, 6D, 1D X, etc.
Lens Mount: Canon EF
Highlights: Legendary L-series lenses, rich third-party ecosystem (Sigma, Tamron)
🟨 Nikon APS-C (DX)
Used By: D3000–D7500 series, D500, etc.
Lens Mount: Nikon F (DX format lenses)
Highlights: Backward compatibility, fast AF, strong budget zoom options
🟨 Nikon Full Frame (FX)
Used By: D600–D850, D3/D4/D5, etc.
Lens Mount: Nikon F
Highlights: Decades of compatible glass, strong performance across genres
🟩 Pentax APS-C (KAF Mount)
Used By: K-70, KP, K-50, etc.
Lens Mount: Pentax KAF (electronic K-mount)
Highlights: Weather-sealed bodies, great legacy compatibility, in-body stabilization
🟩 Pentax Full Frame (K-1 series)
Used By: Pentax K-1, K-1 Mark II
Lens Mount: Pentax KAF
Highlights: Access to modern and vintage K-mount lenses, rugged build, IBIS
🧠Why DSLRs Still Matter
| DSLR Advantage | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Optical viewfinders | Real-time framing in all lighting conditions |
| Long battery life | Hundreds of shots per charge, even in cold conditions |
| Broad lens ecosystems | Massive selection of new and used lenses |
| Affordability | Great deals on used DSLRs and lenses |
| Durability | Many mid-to-pro bodies are weather-sealed and tough |
| Legacy support | Use older AF or even manual lenses with proper metering |