Do you know that with less than 600 dollars, you can actually get a really good camera? We’re talking about a camera with expandable ISO, great AF system, and one with not less than an 18-megapixel sensor.
But with so many options to choose from, knowing which one is the best for your needs can be tough. So, to help you, we’ve put together our list of the 7 best camera under 600.
In this review, we are also going to cover things like:
- Pros and cons of each camera
- Buyer’s guide
- Frequently asked questions
Comparison Chart For Cameras Under 600
The best cameras for under 600 come in many variants. So, we’ve come up with a table of 7 best options that are perfect for any photographer.
| Ranking | Product Name | Screen Size | Optical Zoom |
| 1 | Canon EOS T6 Rebel SLR | 3 inches | 3x |
| 2 | Nikon D5300 | 3.2 inches | 16x |
| 3 | Sony RX100 | 3 inches | 3.6x |
| 4 | Panasonic Lumix ZS100 | 3 inches | 10x |
| 5 | Olympus Mark II OM-D E-M10 | 3 inches | 1x |
| 6 | Canon G7x Mark II | – | 3 x |
| 7 | Sony a5100 Camera | – | – |
1. Canon EOS T6 Rebel SLR
Featuring 18.0 Megapixel CMOS sensor, the EOS T6 Rebel camera delivers impressive and colorful image quality. What’s more, it comes with a powerful DIGIC 4+ image processor for excellent speed.
As if that’s not enough, the camera boasts an ISO setting of 100-6400 which is expandable to 12800. This allows for easy shooting in both bright and low light conditions.
Pros
- Built-in Wi-Fi for easy sharing
- Optical viewfinder enables accurate and quick focusing
- Compatible with all EF/EF-S lenses
- Records full HD videos
Cons
- Not ideal for beginners
2. Nikon D5300
The Nikon D5300 comes equipped with a brilliant swiveling Vari-angle display that allows beautiful views from different angles. On top of that, it features a 24.2-megapixel image sensor that captures the most lifelike pictures.
What’s more? The camera boasts built-in Wi-Fi so you can enjoy instant photo sharing. It also boats expandable ISO with a 39-point autofocus system to let you focus exactly where you want.
Pros
- Lightweight and compact
- Captures sharp and clear photos with a richness of colors
- Allows continuous shooting at 5 frames per second
- Built-in GPS for geotagging all your shots
Cons
- Poor battery life
- GPS is not very accurate
3. Sony RX100
Taking bright and quality photos in low light conditions have never been this easy with the Sony RX100. This all thanks to its 20.2 MP CMOS sensor and Carl Zeiss/1.8 lens with 3.6x zoom.
Additionally, the RX100 camera comes equipped with a control ring that allows easy access to aperture settings. Besides, it features a full HD 1080/60p video so you can create movies with great clarity and smoothness.
Pros
- Wide range Auto ISO sensitivity
- Allows you to save images in JPEG or RAW files
- Can record fast-moving objects
- High-speed auto focus
Cons
- Battery drains even when the camera is off
- Low shutter response
4. Panasonic Lumix ZS100
If you are looking for an affordable point-and-shoot camera, this Lumix ZS100 is worth your money. It boasts a high-sensitivity sensor with 20.1 megapixels. This allows you to shoot clear and more detailed photos day and night.
As if that’s not enough, the camera is equipped with a built-in Live View Finder for improved visibility under harsh sunlight.
Pros
- High-speed autofocusing
- 4K video action for ultra HD photos
- Delivers colorful and brighter photos
- Wi-Fi connectivity
Cons
- The menu is a bit difficult to understand
5. Olympus Mark II OM-D E-M10 Mirrorless Camera
Designed to deliver sharper images, the Olympus Mark II camera boasts a built-in 5 Axis for image stabilization. More so, it comes with an OLED electronic viewfinder with 2.36 million pixels making it easy to see what you’re shooting.
More importantly, the camera features a fast touch autofocus system to ensure perfection with every photo you take.
Pros
- Built-in flash
- Full HD video with 16MP resolution
- Allows burst shooting at 8.5 frames per second
- Includes silent mode
Cons
- AF is not very accurate when shooting fast-moving objects`
6. Canon G7x Mark II
Here is yet another great camera under 600 from the Canon brand that features everything you need to get started. It boasts a 20.1 MP CMOS sensor plus a DIGIC 7 image processor. These two features enable you to capture stunning photos and at ultra-fast speeds.
More importantly, the camera includes various accessories such as a case, screen protectors, cleaning kit, and extra battery pack.
Pros
- Easy to use even for beginners
- Shoots high-quality videos and photos
- Comes with a 64GB Sandisk card
- Perfect for Vlogging
- List Element
Cons
- Extra items in the package are not of great quality
7. Sony a5100 Camera
Last but not least, we have this a5100 camera from Sony that boats ultra-fast AF system with 179 points. This ensures that you never miss the moment. Also, it features an ISO setting of 100-25600 for easy shooting in low light conditions.
What’s more? The camera is equipped with a built-in pop-up flash that enables you to shoot in just about any setting. Best of all, it allows instant sharing thanks to its built-in Wi-Fi.
Pros
- High-resolution 24MP APS-C sensor
- Uses interchangeable lenses for versatility
- The screen can flip-up so you can take selfies
- The fast and accurate auto-focus system
Cons
- Overheats during recording
Buying Guide
Generally, cameras under 600 are not built equally. So, if you’re looking for the best one, there are some things to keep in mind. To start with, you will need to consider the ISO range. Cameras with a higher ISO range allows one to record clear images in low-light conditions.
You should also consider whether the camera has image stabilization. This feature enables you to capture smooth photos by eliminating external movement.
More importantly, you need to take into account the resolution of the image sensor. Any unit boasting 16 to 24MP is capable of delivering stunning results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Now let’s take a quick look at some of the frequently asked questions about the best camera for under 600.
What type of camera under 600 is the best?
Each has its pros and cons. For instance, mirrorless is lightweight, powerful, and with plenty of future upgrades. DSLRs are usually more ergonomic, reliable and with longer battery life.
Are mirrorless cameras good for professional photographers?
Yes they are. Mirrorless cameras have the advantage of being faster and better for video. This makes them perfect for all types of photographers.
Our Top Pick
Overall, the Canon EOS T6 Rebel SLR is our top pick. It allows quick and accurate focusing. Besides, the camera records full HD videos with great quality and large image sensor.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a professional photographer or just a novice, these cameras under 600 are capable of delivering impressive performance. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a DSLR or a mirrorless camera.