Best Used Cameras Under $100: 5 Budget Picks for Photo and Video

What each camera offers

1. Nikon D3100: a simple beginner DSLR

The D3100 gives me a 14.2MP APS-C sensor in a fairly light Nikon DSLR. It is an accessible way to practice exposure, framing and lens choice.

It can record Full HD clips, but the video controls and autofocus are limited compared with newer cameras. I would choose it primarily for photos.

Check autofocus support for the lens you plan to use. The body’s Nikon F mount does not mean every F mount lens provides the same functions.

Compare used Nikon D3100 options at MPB.

2. Nikon D80: my favorite handling in this group

The D80 is my personal favorite of the five because I like its deeper grip, controls and the photos from its 10MP APS-C CCD sensor.

It has no video mode. I would buy it for still photography and its shooting experience, rather than compare it with a modern hybrid camera.

I enjoy its color rendering, but a CCD sensor alone does not guarantee a particular look. Lens choice, exposure and processing still change the result.

Compare used Nikon D80 options at MPB.

3. Sony NEX-C3: detailed photos from a tiny body

The NEX-C3 has the highest photo resolution in this group at 16.2MP. Its APS-C sensor, tilting screen and Sony E mount make it interesting for a small photo kit.

The grip and physical controls are limited, so more adjustments involve the menu. Video tops out at 720p, and there is no viewfinder.

Adapted manual lenses can be fun on it. Check the adapter and expect to control focus and aperture yourself with many older lenses.

Compare used Sony NEX-C3 options at MPB.

4. Canon Rebel XT: access to EF and EF-S lenses

The Rebel XT, also called the EOS 350D, is an older 8MP DSLR. Its main attraction for me is an inexpensive route into Canon EF and EF-S lenses.

There is no video mode, and the small 1.8 inch screen is difficult for judging fine detail. It is better suited to learning still photography than modern content creation.

A battery grip can improve handling, but it adds size and cost. I would compare the total package before buying accessories for a very inexpensive body.

Compare used Canon Rebel XT options at MPB.

5. Panasonic GF3: a compact Micro Four Thirds option

The GF3 is the Micro Four Thirds option here, with a roughly 12MP sensor and a very small body. A compact lens keeps the complete setup light.

Its touchscreen helps with the limited physical controls, but I found the grip less comfortable than the alternatives. Video is useful for basic clips, rather than demanding filming.

Its Full HD AVCHD format is interlaced: the North American manual lists 1080/60i with 30fps sensor output. That is different from 1080/60p. Check the regional version and import format.

See Panasonic’s GF3 manual for the recording formats.

Compare used Panasonic GF3 options at MPB.

My ranking, from favorite to least favorite

1. Nikon D80: My favorite handling and a photo output I enjoy.
2. Nikon D3100: A straightforward beginner DSLR with basic video.
3. Sony NEX-C3: Detailed still photos and lens adaptability in a small body.
4. Canon Rebel XT: Useful EF lens access, with a very dated screen and no video.
5. Panasonic GF3: Small, but the handling suits me less well than the others.

This is my preference from using the cameras, rather than a rule that one sensor type or specification is always better.

What I would check before buying

• 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.

For a first camera, choose a body you will enjoy carrying and a lens that covers the photos you want to take. An inexpensive body that needs several hard to find accessories can cost more than a complete working kit.