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Many think they need to spend a ton of money for the top digital cameras, but that isn't true! There are plenty of feature-rich options with the very latest technology advancements. Here, we're going to look at the best cheap digital cameras.
These $200-and-under cameras have plenty of capabilities and features photographers love. At the under $200 price point, you can still get strong cameras with good value. This great price point is often due to manufacturer's need to clear out inventory, which can be a bonus for those keen on photography!
If you want to push the price point lower, look into getting a refurbished or used camera. While it may not have a warranty, many used cameras are still a great investment. Furthermore, it is important to trust whoever is selling the used model and ensure that it is a strong camera. Read on to learn about the best cheap digital cameras under $200!
Product Image |
Device name |
Weight | Megapixels | Optical Zoom |
Video Resolution |
|
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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Nikon COOLPIX A10 | 5.7 Ounces | 16.1 | 5x | 720P | Buy on Amazon |
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Nikon L340 COOLPIX | 4.9lbs | 20.2 | 28x | 720P HD | Buy on Amazon |
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SJCam’s Legend SJ6 | 2.56 Ounces | 14 | N/a | 1080P | Buy on Amazon |
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Sony DSCW830/B | 4.32 Ounces | 20.1 | 8x | 720P | Buy on Amazon |
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Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 | .65lb | None – Analog | 0x | None | Buy on Amazon |
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Nikon 26516 | 1.01lbs | 13.1 | 3x | 1080P | Buy on Amazon |
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Canon PowerShot ELPH | 4.9 Ounces | 20 | 10x | 720P | Buy on Amazon |
Each of the cameras in this list will have some different features to offer. Some will work great for videos while others can't take it at all. Consequently, the optimal choice is going to be up to your individual needs.
You're unlikely to find a better camera within the sub-$200 category than the Nikon CoolPix A10. This camera is made to fit comfortably in your hands while still offering six camera filter types such as Party mode and Portrait mode as well as 5x Optical Zoom. Consequently, from even a great distance, this Sony device will be able to clearly capture the detail of a subject.
With an ergonomic design that is reminiscent of the older, more traditional SLR cameras, the Nikon CoolPix A10 offers a lot of features while still looking fantastic. You'll also be able to create the ideal picture effect for the available lighting using adjustments made to the flash. Furthermore, you'll be able to make edits to your photos in order to give them a more creative touch and make them stand out.
In addition, you'll also be able to navigate the settings and compose shots even in direct sunlight using the 2.7-inch LCD display screen on this camera. The Nikon CoolPix A10 is also able to offer sharp video quality while recording in 720P, making it excellent for filming short movies. This camera is really going to be able to offer you the vibrant color and ability to capture fine detail that is perfect for those seeking great photography.
Overall, using the NIKKOR glass lens and overall ability, the Nikon CoolPix A10 may not be able to provide the customizable options of a more expensive model, but it is a great device for taking your hobby to the next level.
While many love this camera, some have found that the pictures they take with it have a tendency to be blurry.
- Long battery life.
- Takes high-quality pictures.
- Lightweight.
- Some customers have found that the pictures can be blurry.
- In some cases, other devices may be able to take better pictures.
For those looking for a high-quality, lightweight camera that is able to take great pictures, this is a fantastic option.
For those who want not just the camera, but a whole package, the Nikon L340 CoolPix is a great way to go. As far as starter kits go, this Nikon option is perfect for the novice photographer looking to spend less than $200. The kit includes a three-piece cleaning kit, the 20-megapixel camera, a tabletop tripod and so much more!
The Nikon L340 CoolPix itself is a great camera for both intermediates and novices. It comes with an outstanding telephoto lens with 28x optical zoom as well as the ability to digitally zoom up to a range of about 56x using the Dynamic Fine Zoom Function. In addition, it offers 720P HD video shooting as well as a 20.2-megapixel sensor.
You'll also get plenty of goodies including a 50-inch tripod and a 32GB SDHC memory card to save all the pictures and videos you take with the Nikon L340 CoolPix. Furthermore, the kit features an HDMI and Micro-HDMI audio/video cord as well as a tri-fold memory card wallet, LCD screen protectors and USB card reader. Including the black carrying case, camera and lens, this is really quite a good deal for something under the $200 budget.
Overall, the Nikon L340 CoolPix is a fantastic entry-level camera for under $200. Due to a high level of versatility, a great lens and the ideal beginner camera, you'll have everything you require for your shooting needs in one neat $200 package. With all of the benefits, there really isn't any room for buyer's remorse!
Some customers aren't a big fan of the shutter speed on this device, so make sure it's something that will work for you before purchasing.
- Easy to use.
- High-quality.
- Resulting photos look great.
- Some customers claim that it feels flimsy.
- Some may find that the shutter speed is too long for their liking.
If you're new to photography and want a great camera and kit for getting started, take a look into this option.
For those who don't want to miss a moment in any condition, no matter where they are on Earth, SJCam's Legend SJ6 Action Camera is the ideal purchase. Due to an external microphone and a high level of durability in the metal body, this action camera is great for capturing just about any activity. Furthermore, it's designed with a 16-megapixel sensor that will be able to capture great images and video.
In addition, with the viewing angle of 166-degrees and an 5/2.5 aperture, the SJ6 is a highly useful camera that can be moved as needed. You'll also get a .96-inch front display and a two-inch touchscreen that can help you with settings and captured video and pictures on the device as well as setting the timer. Furthermore, you'll have video and picture options of 720P video, 1080P video or 60 or 30fps, 120 or 60fps.
The SJ6 also uses gyro stabilization for both regular and slow-motion recording. In addition, it uses an external storage card up to a memory of 32GB. Consequently, this can help to give the available memory a boost for all of your photography needs. With the 1000mAh battery, you'll also get a battery life of 65 minutes when the SJ6 is capturing at 60fps, or with a video capture of 30fps you can get up to 113 minutes.
Overall, with increased audio capturing and the ability to capture and preview video and pictures, it's hard to go wrong with the SJ6. Furthermore, it makes use of a waterproof case that can keep the camera safe for up to 30 minutes in water up to about 100 feet.
This camera has been determined to work well for beginners, but may not be the ideal option for those searching for a finer level of quality.
- Great for capturing action.
- Provides high quality video.
- Connects to other devices easily.
- In some cases it can arrive in nonworking order.
- May not have the highest quality video.
If an action cam is what you're looking for, it's hard to go wrong with the Legend.
When affordability and image quality are the most important features for you, the Sony DSCW800/B is worth trying out. It's a decent camera that balances out an affordable price and the basic features you need for a great point-and-shoot camera. This digital camera also uses great features like SteadyShot image stabilization and 5x optical zoom to allow you to get great pictures in many situations.
In addition, the Sony DSCW800/B is great for recording high-quality videos and uses 20.1-megapixels for fantastic images. While you may find that an expensive model might be able to provide more features, Sony's simple design makes it great as a compact model that is easy to use.
Furthermore, the 720P HD movie setting and 360 degree panoramic capabilities make the Sony DSCW800/B able to take great videos in a number of settings. In addition, the easy USB charging port and makes it fantastic to use as a camera on-the-go.
Overall, the Sony DSCW800/B is a camera that is perfect for everyday use, and it comes at a price that many will appreciate.
If you try out this camera, make sure that you keep the warranty information as there can be some issues with the camera not being able to charge.
- Budget-friendly.
- Excellent performance.
- Easy to use.
- In some cases, the timer may not work as expected.
- Some customers find that the camera isn’t able to charge.
If you need a quick replacement, are new to photography or just don't have a lot to spend, this camera is the ideal option.
If you're a fan of cameras that can print photos instantly, an instant camera is a great option for you. These days, Polaroid and its competitor, Fujifilm have been creating cameras that give you the feel of that old vintage design that many of us remember. One such option is the Fujifilm Instax Mini 90, which offers the appearance of something that came before the digital age.
Just like modern digital cameras, the Mini 90 is able to search its surroundings and automatically take in the level of brightness in the area, allowing it to adjust the shutter speed and flash to create the best possible picture as a result. Just like an old Polaroid, it's also able to print images right after you shoot them with the camera, making it a modern trip down memory lane. However, keep in mind that it's best for short distance photography, working at as close as 30-60cm from the subject using the macro mode.
Furthermore, the Mini 90 includes a kids mode that will allow you to get moving pictures easier by boosting the shutter speed. Because of that, you'll be able to capture fast moving objects with a greater level of ease. In addition, you'll have the option to get a film sheet with two images on it due to the double exposure feature, allowing you a few more creative options for your photography.
In addition, you'll be able to use the timer, light/dark options, macro mode and flash modes to capture a wide variety of pictures with the Mini 90. Consequently, with all of those features combined, you really can't go wrong with the Mini 90 Neo Classic Unique.
If you try out this camera, make sure you fully understand the warranty because there can sometimes be breakages or other smaller issues that cause poor image quality or the camera to stop working altogether.
- Photo colors are bright and high-quality.
- Great for traveling.
- More aesthetically pleasing than other options.
- In some cases it can stop working without apparent reason.
- There can sometimes be breakages that cause negative effects to the pictures printed.
For those who miss the old Polaroid days, you can relive the nostalgia with the Instax Mini 90!
For your ocean photography needs, Nikon's CoolPix W100 is your underwater solution! Right out of the box, this camera is going to be able to withstand about a 33 foot depth easily. Because of that, this little Nikon can tackle any of your images 20,000 leagues under the sea.
The CoolPix W100 is a very durable little device, able to withstands temperatures down to 14 degrees Fahrenheit due to its freezeproof design. It's also highly shockproof, so you won't have to worry about it being easily damaged from drops of up to about 5.9 feet. Furthermore, this little Nikon is made using a 13.2-megapixel CMOS image sensor that is sure to allow you to capture all of your latest underwater adventures.
In addition, the W100 underwater camera is made with 6x dynamic fine zoom, Bluetooth connectivity and NIKKOR 3x optical zoom, giving it the ability to capture every shot you need in or out of the water. It's also going to be able to make use of Nikon's SnapBridge app as well as connect to NFC and Wi-Fi. Furthermore, with the ability to connect to iOS and Android devices that are compatible, the Nikon will have no problem snapping shots in just about any environment.
At a mere .82 pounds, the CoolPix W100 is also snap to carry around. It also includes a decent battery life, which will allow you to capture the standard 220 shots. Because of that, it's a good idea to purchase a second battery if you plan on exploring your adventurous side without charging for days, that way you won't need to worry about a re-charge. Overall, if you want something that is very durable and easy to move pictures to and from, the CoolPix W100 is highly recommended.
While this camera is largely considered to be waterproof, some customers can experience problems with condensation buildup making it difficult to take quality pictures and video.
- Functions well underwater.
- Highly durable.
- Easy to use.
- Some customers find that there can be condensation buildup around water.
- In some cases, the flash may not work.
This is a fantastic option for those who plan on diving, snorkeling or even just swimming and want to be able to take pictures of the fun.
If you're looking for a top-notch camera, you can't go wrong with those produced by Canon. The company has a fantastic track record, creating excellent devices for just about any experience level or budget. One such example is the Canon PowerShot ELPH, which is a great compact point-and-shoot digital camera capable of offering crisp image quality in a small package.
Due to such features as a smart AUTO function, an Optical Image Stabilizer, WiFi capabilities and a 10x zoom, it's hard to fail with the Canon PowerShot ELPH at your side. Both advanced and amateur photographers alike will enjoy this camera as well as the reasonable price point it comes at. Furthermore, you'll be able to get clear photos displaying just about any kind of imagery weather you're capturing nature or looking to get creative.
In addition, you'll get to choose the perfect Canon PowerShot ELPH from colors including red, black and blue. It's also going to have no problem fitting in your pocket due to the small size. For those seeking ease of use, this camera can also provide you with the appropriate settings to ensure that every shot is perfect.
Furthermore, there are a variety of fun settings, allowing you to use features including Toy Camera, Monochrome effects and Fisheye. The Canon PowerShot W100 is also great for easy photo transfers, meaning that you'll easily be able to share your favorite pictures or HD videos. Because this camera is so enjoyable and easy to use, it's excellent for amateur photographers seeking a quality point-and-shoot camera.
Overall, this highly portable device is ideal for those who want to get the perfect images quickly. Due to a wide range of built-in features, the ability to be easily equipped and capture ideal photos, this camera is well worth a look!
Make sure you keep hold of warranty information, as picture quality can sometimes drop, or buttons can begin working incorrectly.
- Has the memory to hold a lot of pictures.
- Comes with a long battery life.
- Works well in low-light situations.
- In some cases, the power button can stop working.
- Some customers may find the controls to be more sensitive than they’d like.
For those looking for something that is simple and easy to use, that you can just point, click and enjoy, this is a great option!