Best Used Cameras Under $500: 5 Top Picks for Photo and Video
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The quick answer
I would compare the Nikon D3200 for a low cost start in photography, the Canon 5D models for full frame stills, the Sony A6000 for a smaller kit with a viewfinder, and the Canon M50 for its video friendly screen and controls.
These are used camera options from my original under $500 guide. A lens and the condition of the package matter as much as the model name. None is a promise of current stock at the old price.
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The five cameras at a glance
| Camera | Main appeal | Important limitation |
|---|---|---|
| Nikon D3200 | 24.2MP APS-C photos, Nikon F lenses | Basic autofocus and shooting speed. |
| Canon 5D Classic | 12.8MP full frame photos, Canon EF lenses | No video. |
| Canon 5D Mark II | 21.1MP full frame photos and Full HD | Older autofocus and controls. |
| Sony A6000 | 24.3MP APS-C, viewfinder, Full HD 60p | No 4K or standard microphone input. |
| Canon M50 | Articulating touchscreen, mic input, Full HD AF | Cropped 4K and a different lens mount from RF. |
1. Nikon D3200: a straightforward photo camera
The D3200 is the least expensive starting point in this group. Its 24.2MP APS-C sensor gives plenty of detail for everyday photos, and the small DSLR body is easy to carry with a modest lens.
It records Full HD up to 30fps and has a microphone input. Autofocus and burst shooting are basic compared with newer cameras, so I would choose it mainly for photography and planned video clips.
Nikon F mount provides many lens choices. Check autofocus compatibility with the exact lens before buying, especially when comparing older lenses.
Compare used Nikon D3200 options at MPB. Check what is included with the body.
2. Canon 5D Classic: full frame photography
The original 5D is the choice here for someone who wants an older full frame DSLR for still photos. I like the colors and the simple shooting experience from its 12.8MP sensor.
It has no video recording. Its small rear screen, older autofocus and lower resolution are the main compromises beside the newer options in this guide.
It uses Canon EF lenses. EF-S, EF-M and RF lenses are not substitutes for EF lenses on this body. Check the condition carefully, including the card slot, mirror and supplied power equipment.
Compare used Canon 5D Classic options at MPB. Check what is included with the body.
3. Canon 5D Mark II: full frame photos and HD video
The 5D Mark II adds a 21.1MP full frame sensor and Full HD video to the larger Canon DSLR style of shooting. I would consider it when I want the EF lens system for both stills and controlled video.
The autofocus and shooting speed show its age. It is better suited to deliberate work than to someone expecting modern subject tracking or easy video autofocus.
Magic Lantern adds experimental recording options on supported setups, including RAW workflows. That is a separate project involving compatibility checks, media testing and conversion, rather than a standard Canon recording feature.
Read the Magic Lantern project information before buying a camera specifically for community software.
Compare used Canon 5D Mark II options at MPB. Check what is included with the body.
4. Sony A6000: a smaller kit with a viewfinder
The A6000 pairs a 24.3MP APS-C sensor with an electronic viewfinder in a compact body. I would compare it when I want something smaller than a DSLR while keeping direct controls and interchangeable lenses.
It offers fast photo bursts and Full HD recording up to 60p, but no 4K or standard microphone input. A burst rate alone does not guarantee a high success rate with moving subjects.
Sony E mount gives it a broad selection of native lenses and options for adapted manual lenses. Add a small lens if portability is the reason for choosing it.
Compare used Sony A6000 options at MPB. Check what is included with the body.
5. Canon M50: an articulating touchscreen for video
The M50 is the one I would compare for a beginner who wants an articulating touchscreen and microphone input. Its 24.1MP APS-C sensor works for still photos, and Dual Pixel autofocus makes Full HD video convenient.
Its 4K mode adds a tighter crop and uses a less capable autofocus method. I would judge it mainly as a photos and Full HD camera rather than buy it for the 4K label.
The M50 uses EF-M lenses. Canon RF lenses do not fit it, and EF-M lenses cannot be moved onto an R50 with an ordinary adapter. Include that system difference when comparing a used M50 with an RF camera.
Compare used Canon M50 options at MPB. Check what is included with the body.
Compare the complete used kit
My original examples were around $200 for the D3200, $250 for the 5D Classic, $300 for the 5D Mark II, $350 for the A6000 and $450 for the M50. Those figures are context from the guide, not current quotes.
- Include a compatible lens, battery, charger and memory card in the total.
- Inspect the sensor, mount, screen, battery compartment and controls.
- Ask for a saved test photo or clip, and check the seller’s condition details.
- Compare the complete package and return terms rather than the body price alone.
Which one would I choose?
For a simple photo kit, I would start by comparing the Nikon D3200 with the Sony A6000. The Nikon gives a traditional DSLR experience, while the Sony is smaller and has an electronic viewfinder.
The 5D models suit someone who specifically wants full frame photos and EF lenses. I would compare the M50 for a flexible screen and Full HD video, while accounting for its separate EF-M lens system.