By Hannah Rooke
last updated
The best camera under $100 will enable you to capture some amazing memories on a budget and you'll be amazed at what you can get for your money
The best camera under $100 is unlikely to set the world alight but these pocket-sized shooters will be better than you think! Whether you're looking for a digital, instant film or even an underwater camera, major manufacturers have done a good job of making sure there are powerful cameras available for two-figure prices.
Photography on a budget?
• The best camera under $200
• The best camera under $500
• The best camera under $1000
• The best cheap camera
• The best camera for beginners
• The best budget action camera
Investing in the best camera under $100 is a cost-effective way to learn the basics of photography, and can also be a good choice for getting kids into snapping pictures. After all, if a camera is going to get accidentally dropped or lost, you'd probably rather it wasn't an expensive one!
We've put together a guide of what we think are the best cameras available for $100 or less right now. They aren't going to have cutting-edge features or massive megapixel counts, but all of the cameras on our list are reliable, capable, and will do the basics that you need of them. You'll find cameras from Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fujifilm and more on this list of our top ten picks, so you can be confident you'll be getting a name you trust.
Bear in mind that if you pick an instant film camera, refilling it will represent an ongoing cost, and not all digital cameras come with memory cards, so double-check that as well.
The prices of cameras are always changing, so while we've done our best to ensure that we include cameras available for $100 or less, some of them may creep over the line from time to time. Keep checking back though, as our tool pulls in all the latest deals, so you can be sure you're always getting the best price on each model!
1. Instax Mini 11
Comes in either a cute pastel shade or a more traditional black
Specifications
Type: Instant film
Film type: Instax mini
Image Size: 54×86mm
Viewfinder: Yes
Lens: 60mm
Flash: Yes
Exposure modes: No
Self timer: No
User level: Beginner
Reasons to buy
+ Inexpensive Film costs less than Polaroid Fun to use
Reasons to avoid
- A little bulky Images can be hit and miss
The Instax Mini 11 looks like every version before it only Fujifilm has decided to remove the exposure dial in place of automatic exposure. You can view how many shots you have left on the back of the camera and film cartridges are easy to replace, all you need to do is match up the yellow dots. When you first load a new film cartridge, you'll need to fire off one shot to get rid of the plastic film cover and then you're good to go. The film prints almost instantaneously and develops in just 90 seconds. I love the aesthetic of Fujifilm Instax, it's hard to recreate in an app and for weddings and festivals they're perfect for creating tangible keepsakes.
Read more: Instax Mini 11 review
2. AKASO EK7000 Pro
This budget action cam shoots 4K at 25fps and can be controlled remotely - impressive!
Specifications
Weight: 61g
Waterproof: Yes, to 40 metres
4K video: At 25fps
1080p video: At 60fps
Stills resolution: 16 megapixels
Battery life: Up to 90 minute per charge
Reasons to buy
+ Fully waterproof 4K video capture, Remote operation
Reasons to avoid
- No zoom
Planning an action and adventure holiday but don't have a big budget for an action camera? The AKASO EK7000 Pro would be a great choice, it offers plenty of fun features and is one of our favorite budget action cameras. You might be surprised to find out it's capable of shooting 4K video, it can take 16-megapixel photos and it has a two-inch touch screen. It has a fixed wide-angle lens which is perfect for getting a lot of background in, electronic image stabilization will help your video to look smooth and with its waterproof housing, it can go down to depths of 131 feet. If that hasn't you, it even as a time-lapse special effect so this is well worth considering.
3. Polaroid Go Instant Mini Camera
A tiny instant camera you can even wear as a necklace
Specifications
Type: Instant
Film type: Color go film
Image size: 2.122-inch
Minimum shooting distance: 35cm
Viewfinder: Optical
Lens: 34mm full-frame equivalent
Flash: Built in, automatic
Exposure modes: Auto, Bulb
User level: Beginner
Reasons to buy
+ Small and compact Double exposure mode
Reasons to avoid
- Expensive film Struggles in bright sunlight
Polaroid's smallest camera yet is hard not to love. It's designed that you can even wear it around your neck should you want to add a funky accessory to your outfit. The square, polaroid prints are smaller than those you would get out of the Polaroid OneStep 2 but that only adds to its cuteness factor. In bright sunlight it does have the tendency to overexpose and considering how expensive a pack of 8 film is, you don't want to be wasting shots. One of the features we loved was its ability to create double exposure images - something the Instax range of cameras can't do. It's a fun, quirky little camera that is fun to use for both young and old making it one of the best cameras for kids
4. ILFORD Sprite 35-II Film Camera
An affordable 35mm camera perfect for anyone getting into film photography
Specifications
Type: 35mm film
Sensor Size: Full-frame
Viewfinder: Yes
Lens: 31mm fixed
Flash: Built-in
Zoom: No
User level: Beginner
Reasons to buy
+ Affordable film camera Easy to use Takes 3x AAA batteries
Reasons to avoid
- Ongoing film costs Cheap, plastic case
This quirky little camera from Ilford is perfect for anyone who is just thinking about getting into film photography. It's reimagined version of a popular camera from the 90s - the Sprite 35 - which was the go-to model at the time. This 35mm camera is the only full-frame camera on the list, it features a 31mm f/9 fixed lens, has a built-in flash and a viewfinder. It's certainly a step up from a disposable camera plus it's better for the planet as you don't need a new one every time. If you're someone who likes to shoot film but doesn't want to commit to anything more advanced, this is ideal for beginners. It looks great, is small enough to keep in your pocket and super lightweight at just 122g.
5. Fujifilm Instax WIDE 300
It's a chunky camera but the larger prints make it worth it
Specifications
Type: Instant
Film type: Fujifilm Instax Wide film
Image size: 6.2cm x 9.9cm
Minimum shooting distance: 40cm
Viewfinder: Optical
Lens: 95mm f/14
Flash: Built in
Exposure modes: Dark, Normal, Light
Self-timer: No
User level: Beginner
Reasons to buy
+ Big prints User-friendly
Reasons to avoid
- It'll be too chunky for some Small viewfinder
The biggest of Fujifilm's Instax range, as the name suggest, the Wide 300 delivers larger prints (via instax WIDE film packs).
Depending on your taste, its size is either a blessing - it feels substantial and well-built - or a curse (it's not a great choice for selfies, small hands may struggle, and it isn't as friendly to carry around).
Control is limited to adjusting brightness, and that huge built-in flash, while the 95mm lens is extended via a level next to the shutter release.
It's all a bit on the chunky side, apart from - strangely - the slightly ungenerous viewfinder. Still, if you're after larger prints from an instant camera, and still want change from $100, then the Wide 300 may be for you. Just make sure you handle it and check you're comfortable with the size before buying.
6. Kodak M35
A disposable camera alternative that comes in 8 bright colors
Specifications
Type: 35mm film
Sensor: 35mm
Screen: None
Viewfinder: Yes
Lens type: 31mm f/10
User level: Beginner
Reasons to buy
+ Fun colors East to use Less wasteful than disposables
Reasons to avoid
- Can't zoom
The Kodak M35 is a fun alternative to a normal disposable. Not only does it look a lot funkier than other cheap film cameras, but it might also save you money in the long run. While the cost of the best 35mm film does seem to be rising, at least with a reusable camera you're creating less waste for the planet. It has a built-in flash so you can snap away even in the dark and a manual wind/rewind feature. Use either black and white or colored film and capture your favorite memories.
7. Lomography Konstruktor F
If you're into making things, this kit camera will give you an extra challenge
Specifications
Type: 35mm film camera
Film format: 35mm
Lens: 50mm f/10
Viewfinder: Waist level screen
User modes: Manual
User level: Enthusiast
Reasons to buy
+ A camera that you build yourself Relive the analog dream by shooting film
Reasons to avoid
- Film and processing costs extra You have to build it yourself!
A left-field choice for those wanting a camera for under $100 is to go 35mm - as there are a number of film cameras available at budget prices - and in fact, many of the best Lomography cameras can be bought for under $100. But they don't get much more left-field than the Konstructor... which you build yourself out of the plastic bits contained in this kit. It is a great project for those who want to live the analog life - and a great present for a patient teenager. Remember though, the film costs extra.
8. Polaroid Wave Underwater Camera
It's not the best quality camera but it can still take a decent photo
Specifications
Type: Underwater
Lens: 50mm f/10
Megapixels: 18
Viewfinder: LCD display
:
Reasons to buy
+ Fun to use Can record HD video at 30fps
Reasons to avoid
- Not the best quality photos App is hard to use
While the Polaroid Wave might not be able to capture the coral reef in all its glory it is perfect for using among friends whether you're at the beach or on a kayaking trip. It has an 18MP sensor, 4x optical zoom and a LCD screen so you can preview the photos you've taken. It required a micro SD card and it can be charged via USB. It would also be a great camera for kids as it floats in water and isn't too expensive.
How we test cameras
Why you can trust Digital Camera World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.
We test cameras both in real-world shooting scenarios and in carefully controlled lab conditions. Our lab tests measure resolution, dynamic range and signal to noise ratio. Resolution is measured using ISO resolution charts, dynamic range is measured using DxO Analyzer test equipment and DxO Analyzer is also used for noise analysis across the camera's ISO range. We use both real-world testing and lab results to inform our comments in buying guides.
Read more:
The best cameras under $200
The best camera under $500
The bestcamera for kids
The best beginner cameras
The best point-and-shoot cameras
The best waterproof cameras
The best compact cameras
Best budget action cameras under $100
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Hannah Rooke
Staff Writer
Having studied Journalism and Public Relations at the University of the West of England Hannah developed a love for photography through a module on photojournalism. She specializes in Portrait, Fashion and lifestyle photography but has more recently branched out in the world of stylized product photography. For the last 3 years Hannah has worked at Wex Photo Video as a Senior Sales Assistant using her experience and knowledge of cameras to help people buy the equipment that is right for them. With 5 years experience working with studio lighting, Hannah has run many successful workshops teaching people how to use different lighting setups.
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FAQs
The best camera under $100 in 2023: low cost cameras that still take decent shots? ›
The Sony a7R V is a phenomenal mirrorless camera that tops our list. It has a powerful full frame sensor with a 60.1 MP resolution. The image quality is breathtaking. And you get outstanding dynamic range and low-light performance.
What kind of camera takes very high quality photos? ›The Sony a7R V is a phenomenal mirrorless camera that tops our list. It has a powerful full frame sensor with a 60.1 MP resolution. The image quality is breathtaking. And you get outstanding dynamic range and low-light performance.
Is there a digital camera that shoots like film? ›Is there a digital camera that looks like film? Fujifilm X100 series, Olympus Pen F and Nikon 1 J5 are some great digital cameras that produce photographs that look like they were shot on film.
How do you take good pictures with a cheap camera? ›Play with the camera settings on your device or try using a tripod and the flash options. Play with perspective, too. Try shooting from your waist instead of eye level. If the subject is moving and you can't increase the speed of your shutter, move your camera in the same direction at the same speed as the subject.
What is the simplest digital camera to use? ›- Best Camera For Beginners. Fujifilm X-S10. SEE PRICE. ...
- Best Mid-Range Camera For Beginners. Nikon Z 50. ...
- Best Budget Camera For Beginners. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV. ...
- Easiest-To-Use Camera For Beginners. Nikon D3500. ...
- Best All-In-One Camera For Beginners. Panasonic LUMIX FZ80.
- Look your subject in the eye.
- Use a plain background.
- Use flash outdoors.
- Move in close.
- Move it from the middle.
- Lock the focus.
- Know your flash's range.
- Watch the light.
1. Fujifilm. Of all the camera brands, Fujifilm gets its JPEG processing mostly right most of the time.
How do you take digital pictures that look like film? ›To make a photo look like film you can do many things. You can start with a film simulation preset for Lightroom or Capture One like VSCO's Kodak Portra 400 or Fuji Pro 400H presets. Or you can start from scratch and use any of the many tools available in Lightroom to emulate film and make photos look like film.
What is the difference between a still film camera and a digital camera? ›With film photography, the image (shadow) is fixed by a photosensitive material usually made with silver that reacts to the light, capturing the image on various sized grains of silver. With digital photography, an electronic sensor reacts to the light, capturing the images on identically sized pixels.
Do they still make cameras that use film? ›Nikon F5
The Nikon F5 is the last professional-bodied, fully autofocus film SLR that was produced by the company. Today, it is your best bet if you are looking for a truly advanced film SLR that features great autofocus, aperture, and shutter priority modes, as well as is able to use fully manual lenses.
How do you tell if a camera will take good pictures? ›
Important specs to check out when buying a camera are autofocus speed, frames per second (fps), startup time and overall operational speed ratings. The fps rating is the number of photos, shots, or frames that a camera can capture per second. Higher fps ratings offer smoother and clearer images or video.
Do I need an expensive camera to take good pictures? ›Entry-Level Cameras Are Better Than Ever
You don't need the latest, greatest camera to be able to take quality photos. People viewing your photos are not likely to know the difference between a photo that was taken on an entry-level camera and a high-end, new model.
The most common reason for a blurry photo is an incorrect use of shutter speed. The faster your shutter speed is, the less chance there is for camera shake. This is particularly true when shooting handheld. There is no way that anyone will be able to handhold a camera steady enough at slow shutter speeds.
Which camera is easy for old person? ›Canon PowerShot ELPH 180 Digital Camera
These features, along with an 8x optical zoom with image stabilization, make it a breeze for your loved one to capture detailed, rich images full of color and texture. This camera is perfect for seniors because it's so intuitive and easy to use.
The Canon EOS R6 Mark II is our favorite full-frame camera for most people.
What are the first cameras to take still digital photos? ›At Photokina 1988, Fujifilm introduced the FUJIX DS-1P, the first fully digital camera, which recorded digital images using a semiconductor memory card. The camera's memory card had a capacity of 2 MB of SRAM (static random-access memory), and could hold up to ten photographs.
How do I change a low quality photo to high quality? ›- Upload Image. Drag and drop your image from your photo library.
- Enhance Photo Quality. Fotor's AI photo quality enhancer automatically enhances photo resolution instantly to make the blurry photo clear without quality loss.
- Download HD Image.
- Use the Sharpest Aperture. Camera lenses can only achieve their sharpest photos at one particular aperture. ...
- Switch to Single Point Autofocus. ...
- Lower Your ISO. ...
- Use a Better Lens. ...
- Remove Lens Filters. ...
- Check Sharpness on Your LCD Screen. ...
- Make Your Tripod Sturdy. ...
- Use a Remote Cable Release.
A high-resolution JPEG is an image that is typically 300 DPI (dots per inch) or higher. While its file size may be larger, it can be ideal for those wanting to save a photograph or art piece and retain detail and quality.
What is the best JPEG image size? ›2400x1600px, jpeg, saved for web, and optimized
To ensure that your full width images look good across any device big or small the recommended size is 2400x1600px. Note that devices have different ratio than the one you shoot and it is possible your images will be cropped when viewed on web.
Is picture quality better in RAW or JPEG? ›
Capturing and storing all the details that pass through your camera's sensors means RAW files contain a wider dynamic range and far greater color spectrum than JPEGs. If a RAW image is under or overexposed, the wider dynamic range makes recovery a lot easier, with greater control over sharpening.
Which picture format has the highest quality? ›The RAW format is considered to be the highest quality image format. All professional cameras and recently many amateur cameras have the ability to save photos in this format. RAW is actually just a common name, and photos may have such formats as NEF (Nikon), DNG (Adobe) or CRW (Canon).
How do I make my photos look professional? ›So, a good way to make sure your photos look professional is to do some degree of editing on them. It doesn't need to be fancy, just a check of the white balance and exposure, noise reduction and sharpening, and adding a little contrast and saturation can do wonders for an image, particularly if you shoot in RAW.
What makes a photo look like film? ›Clarity, Sharpness, and Grain
It'd be worth starting your edit by positioning the clarity down very slightly to copy that effect. Some artists like to add grain to their images by adjusting the sliders in Lightroom, a super popular effect that's more characteristic of film than digital.
Film Blends Light and Color Better
Digital camera sensors, are made up of millions of tiny squares that give us an image. Film isn't split up in such a linear way, and because of that, it naturally blends light and colors better.
Film is better at capturing subtle details and color contrasts, especially between black and white. Lower initial costs. Traditional film cameras are generally cheaper than digital cameras. No fear of your camera losing power.
What are the disadvantages of digital photography? ›- Digital photography usually requires computer skills to manage and edit images.
- The initial cost for a digital camera is usually higher than for a comparable film camera.
- Digital images easily lose detail in whites and blacks.
- Some digital cameras are difficult to focus.
SLR Camera. Digital point-and-shoot cameras are cheaper, more portable and simpler to use. However, SLR (single-lens reflex) cameras have faster shutter speed, and take higher quality and more accurate pictures.
What camera is closest to film? ›1) Get a Fujifilm X100. This is probably my favorite digital stills camera on the whole and gives you the closest thing to a “film look” straight out of camera from any digital option, in my opinion.
What replaced film cameras? ›Digital SLRs
A digital SLR (or "DSLR" for short) is a more advanced type of camera which offers the ultimate in digital picture quality, greater control over camera settings, and interchangeable lenses.
How much does a roll of 35mm film cost? ›
We ran the numbers and found that on average, to buy, develop, and scan 35mm color film, it costs $0.75 per photo, $27 per roll.
Do cameras take better pictures than phones? ›Amazing low-light photos can only be taken if the camera's sensor is enormous. A mobile phone won't have as big of a sensor as a digital camera. Moreover, cameras like the DSLR offer much better ISO sensitivity than smartphones. This allows for vivid and clear shots when it's dark.
Do newer cameras take better photos? ›A jump in the number of megapixels is not going to make much practical difference in the quality of your photos unless you're using a very old DSLR or a very low-quality camera. A new camera body is going to take better photos in low light than an older one.
How many megapixels is good for a camera? ›Most modern cameras fall somewhere between 16 MP and 60 MP, all of which are more than sufficient to meet your needs. You should base your camera buying decisions on other features beyond sensor resolution.
What is the cost of a good camera? ›PriceDekho consists of the most updated list of 230 cameras in India as on June 2023 to help you get the best prices. Here you will get the cameras from 1,149 to 5.60 Lakh. The most expensive cameras are Canon EOS 1D X Mark III (Body) Digital SLR Camera.
Do cameras take better photos than iphones? ›Furthermore, DSLR and mirrorless cameras offer a much better ISO sensitivity than smartphones allowing for more vivid and clear shots when it is dusk. The TikTok trend also led users to pay attention to the higher-quality aesthetic of a digital camera compared to an iPhone.
Should I spend more money on camera or lens? ›Expensive lenses will be able to project a quality image onto your sensor or film plane, and they aren't often updated every few years like camera bodies are. This means that lenses tend to hold the majority of their value for a lot longer than camera bodies, making them a good investment in most cases.
Why do I look better in the camera than on the picture? ›This is because the reflection you see every day in the mirror is the one you perceive to be original and hence a better-looking version of yourself. So, when you look at a photo of yourself, your face seems to be the wrong way as it is reversed than how you are used to seeing it.
Can you fix blurry photos? ›In Photoshop, the Smart Sharpen tool is a great way to fix blurry pictures. If you're looking for a quick way to fix a blurry image without transferring your photos to a computer, you can do it on your smartphone's default photo app. See our full guide on using the Sharpen tool in Google Photos.
What is the best video camera for seniors? ›Easy-to-Use Elderly Monitoring Cameras
The products Reolink Argus 2E and E1 Pro are both great options as elderly monitoring cameras for you. Reolink Argus 2E rechargeable battery security camera is a totally wire-free in home camera for senior citizens, which can be moved from room to room based on your needs.
Can I use an old cell phone as a security camera? ›
Use an Android phone as a CCTV camera by downloading AlfredCamera to it and another device. One device will be used to view the feed and receive notifications, the other will be the camera device. They can be paired in minutes—get started now by downloading AlfredCamera for free from Google Play.
Are digital cameras still worth buying? ›It's safe to say that – for now at least – the digital camera – or at least the best cameras for photography – are still king when it comes to image quality. However, there's no getting around the fact that the smartphone is best for those who don't want to be weighed down with heavy and cumbersome gear.
Which mobile brand has best camera quality? ›- Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra. ...
- Google Pixel 7 Pro. ...
- Sony Xperia 1 IV. ...
- OnePlus 10 Pro. ...
- Oppo Find X5 Pro. ...
- Realme GT 2 Pro. ...
- Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 4. The best foldable camera phone. ...
- Samsung Galaxy S21 Ultra. For a discount on an older (still great) model.
Types of digital cameras
Most cameras can be grouped into four main types: digital SLR (or DSLR), point-and-shoot, bridge cameras, and camera phones. Each type has advantages and disadvantages, and some types are more expensive than others.
Mirrorless cameras are more popular than DSLR cameras for professional photographers. 63% of professional photographers use a mirrorless camera, while 36% of them use a DSLR camera. Only 1% use both.
What is the highest resolution camera picture? ›At 717 billion pixels, the museum says that the distance between two pixels in the photo is just five micrometers (0.005 millimeters), which means the size of one pixel is smaller than a human red blood cell.
What type of camera is the most versatile because of high quality images? ›DSLRs are durable, versatile in their ability to pair with numerous lenses and attachments, have great battery life and give you a higher shooting speed with better autofocusing — these are the reasons photographers love this type of camera.
Is HD or 4K camera better? ›Advantages compared to Full HD
Videos in 4K Ultra HD resolution contain 4 times as many pixels as Full HD recordings. The advantages is that your videos are more detailed. If you like to make creative recordings, you'll have more freedom when you edit 4K footage compared to Full HD footage.
HD refers to cameras with a standardized resolution of 720p or 1080p. The numbers 720 and 1080 refer to the horizontal resolution.
How many megapixels is a good camera? ›For the majority of photographers out there, the megapixel war is a marketing one between manufacturers, and that has little to do with you. A camera with 10-20 megapixels is going to, in most cases, be more than capable of meeting all your needs.
What does a high resolution photo look like? ›
A high-resolution JPEG is an image that is typically 300 DPI (dots per inch) or higher. While its file size may be larger, it can be ideal for those wanting to save a photograph or art piece and retain detail and quality.
What resolution is best for old photos? ›If you don't know how the digitized photo will be used or you're scanning it to archive for posterity, scan at least 600 and up to 1200 dpi.
What to look out for when buying a camera? ›Important specs to check out when buying a camera are autofocus speed, frames per second (fps), startup time and overall operational speed ratings. The fps rating is the number of photos, shots, or frames that a camera can capture per second. Higher fps ratings offer smoother and clearer images or video.
What camera are professionals using? ›Some of the most popular camera models of the cameras used by professional photographers are the Sony a7III, Canon R6, Nikon D750, Nikon Z6II, and Canon EOS R3. Other popular cameras are the Nikon Z9 and Canon EOS R5.
Is it worth getting 4K vs 1080p? ›Answer: For TVs, going to 4K from 1080p is worth it only if you'll be watching native 4K content while sitting at a close enough distance (depending on the TV size) that allows you to notice the extra pixels i.e., details.
Does 4K actually look better than 1080p? ›The 4k image is smoother and has more detail than the 1080p image. Look closely and you'll see that the edges around objects in the 1080p picture are a bit more blurry, and text looks clearer on the 4k TV.
Is it worth getting 4K security cameras? ›Higher resolution is almost always better, but it depends on cost and other factors. Of course, looking at just numbers on a page, disregarding budget, 4K is purely better than a 1080p at capturing information and data. Better image quality means better security, but some security is better than none at all.
Do more megapixels mean better photo quality? ›Megapixels refer to the number of individual pixels that make up an image. The more megapixels, the more detail and resolution the image can have. However, simply having more megapixels doesn't necessarily mean better image quality.
How many megapixels is considered high resolution? ›As mentioned above, somewhere between 24-36-megapixels is the sweet spot for most creators out there. I know many photographers out there will rush out to buy a Canon — or any other brand high-megapixel camera — because they love the tech more than anything else, and that's fine.
What camera is better than 1080p? ›As shown above, 4K Ultra HD provides up to four times higher resolution than standard 1080 resolution. 4K Ultra HD uses the 16:9 format.