Home » Computers & Electronics » Digital Cameras » Buying a camera

Digital Cameras Under $200

Ranked #3,441 in Computers & Electronics, #68,092 overall

All You Need to Find an Affordable Camera

Many of us want the convenience that a compact digital camera offers; a device small enough to fit in a pocket, simplicity that doesn't require a life study of photography to get the right exposure and focus, and the lens and sensor to get the clarity and color accuracy others will admire.

On the other hand, many of us are on a budget and wrongly assume we can't get a camera with the qualities we want. Learn about some great affordable camera options on this page that won't break your budget. find out what to look for and which digital cameras under $200 will best meet your needs.

The prices of the digital cameras on this page fluctuate from time to time. Therefore, some of them may be priced over $200 at any given time. We apologize for any discrepancy.

What Features Do the Best Digital Cameras Under $200 Have?

Whether you're shopping for a digital camera under $200 or a more expensive one, there are some critical features you should consider.

  • The number of megapixels you need depends on how you will use your digital camera. Five megapixels is plenty for making average sized prints and 8 is enough for even oversized prints like small posters. Because of the small sensor size on these compact cameras, too many megapixels can actually erode image quality so 16 megapixel compacts aren't necessarily the best choice.

  • A 1/2.5" CCD sensor or larger. Back illuminated sensors can help improve the quality of low light shots.

  • A good lens. A Leica, Carl Zeiss or other well regarded lens can help assure good photos.

  • Optical zoom. Zoom allows you to get up close even though you can't step in closer. Digital zoom can degrade the quality of an image if the print is larger than 4x6; thus optical zoom is preferred.

  • Optical image stabilization. A common problem for amateurs is keeping the camera steady for a blur free shot. Optical image stabilization can help to elminate the effects of these small unintended movements. Some cameras offer electronic or digital stabilization, but OIS is preferred.

  • Automated features. If you want simplicity you want auto focus, face detection, and multiple shooting modes to help you get the right exposure and shutter speed for the conditions and all with the push of a single button. Having a night mode for low light shots and a macro mode for up close shots are recommended if you plan on using your camera in a variety of settings. Shake detection, motion detection, and so forth can help reduce blurry images and noise reduction features help reduce graininess in photos.

  • Manual controls. If you want the ability to set your own shutter speed, exposure and so forth as you gain experience, be sure your camera will be able to grow with you and allow you to make such manual adjustments. If your aren't interested it doing things manually, this isn't important.

  • Video Capabilities. The ability to capture video may be unimportant to some, but for others the ability of their camera to double as a camcorder can be very attractive. The quality of the recording is generally inferior to that of a stand alone camcorder, but in some instances can be rather good. You can compare resolution and frame rate easily. Some cameras may offer only WVGA resolution and other higher quality HD resolution. Some may record at only 15fps, others at 30, or 60fps. Higher frame rates mean smoother video. If video is really critical, consider which controls can or cannot be used while filming.


  • If you will use your camera for group shots and landscapes you may want it to have a wide angle lens so that you can get everything in the picture without difficulty. A camera that can accept add on lenses is a plus if you will be shooting in a variety of situations.

    • Shop for Digital Cameras Under $200

    Loading
    Loading
    Loading

    Best Digital Cameras Under $200: Did you find what you wanted?

    Did you find the perfect digital camera under $200? If not, be sure to visit our home electronics store.

    submit
    Show All
    Photo Credits
    Introduction: PhotoPediaPhotos.
    What Features Do the Best Digital Cameras Under $200 Have? ldcross.

    by

    mulberry

    Wanting a good camera without breaking the bank? You can find a digital camera under $200 on this page. more »

    Feeling creative? Create a Lens!

    Explore related pages

    Related Tags