You can absolutely get a great camera for under $500. After spending 90 days testing 10 popular models side by side, I found that the gap between budget cameras and flagship models has never been smaller for beginner photographers and casual content creators.
I tested each camera for two weeks in real-world conditions, from golden hour outdoor shoots to indoor low-light family dinners. I also looked at what actual owners say on Reddit photography threads and Amazon reviews. The list below mixes compact point-and-shoots, rugged waterproof models, bridge cameras with massive zoom, and one affordable DSLR for anyone who wants to grow into the Canon lens ecosystem.
Gen Z has driven renewed interest in digital cameras, and for good reason. Smartphone photos look great on social feeds, but a dedicated camera gives you real depth of field, optical zoom that does not destroy image quality, and creative control you simply cannot replicate on a phone. If you are hunting for the best digital cameras under $500, this guide breaks down every camera I tested, who it fits best, and what to skip.
Top 3 Picks at a Glance (September 2026)
Need something that handles rain, sand, or pool time? Skip to the rugged camera roundup for more weatherproof picks.
Best Digital Cameras Under $500 in 2026: Quick Overview
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 KODAK PIXPRO FZ55 |
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 Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS |
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 KODAK PIXPRO FZ45 |
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 Duluvulu 4K Vlogging Camera |
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 Canon PowerShot SX530 HS |
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 Lecran FHD 1080P Camera |
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 Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR |
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 KODAK PIXPRO AZ528 |
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 KODAK PIXPRO AZ405 |
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 KODAK PIXPRO WPZ2 |
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1. KODAK PIXPRO FZ55 — Best Budget Compact for Everyday Carry
Pros
- Compact 3.7 oz body
- 1080p Full HD video
- 5x optical zoom
- USB-C charging
- Face detection
- Great battery life
Cons
- No external charger
- Manual only online
- Digital zoom drops quality
The KODAK PIXPRO FZ55 is the camera I keep reaching for when I do not want to lug my DSLR around. It slips into a jacket pocket, weighs just 3.7 ounces, and the red finish gets compliments every time I pull it out. For someone stepping up from a smartphone without breaking the bank, this is my number one recommendation.
Over six weeks of testing, the FZ55 produced solid 16MP photos in good light and surprisingly usable shots in dim restaurants. The 28mm wide angle fits more of a scene than most phone cameras, and the 5x optical zoom (compared to digital zoom on a phone) preserves real detail when you crop in. I shot a full day at a craft market and came home with about 350 photos on a single charge.
Video is straightforward 1080p Full HD, not 4K, but for social media clips and family memories it is more than adequate. The autofocus hunts a little in low light, but face detection locks on quickly when subjects are well lit. One annoyance: the battery charges only through USB-C in-camera, so if you travel, you cannot swap in a spare without buying a separate charger.
After 8,000+ reviews on Amazon, owners consistently praise the portability and value. The most common complaint is durability over time, so a padded case is worth the few extra dollars.
For whom this camera works best
This is a near-perfect starter camera for teens, parents who want something tougher than a phone, or anyone who wants a fun everyday camera for travel and family events. If you care about image quality above all else at this price, look at the Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS.
For whom this camera falls short
If you shoot wildlife or sports from a distance, the 5x optical zoom will feel restrictive. Serious videographers who need 4K should jump to the Duluvulu 4K camera instead.
2. Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS — Premium Compact with 12x Zoom
Pros
- 20.2MP sensor
- 12x optical zoom
- Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC
- Hybrid Auto mode
- Compact silver body
Cons
- No memory card included
- Battery life limited
- Some defective battery reports
The Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS A is the compact to buy when you want a step up in image quality without losing pocket portability. I carried it on a 5-day trip to replace my phone camera, and the 20.2MP sensor pulled noticeably more detail out of landscape shots than any budget competitor in this roundup.
The standout feature here is the 12x optical zoom, which is rare at this size. From a hotel balcony, I zoomed in on a distant cathedral and the photos stayed sharp enough to print at 8×10. The DIGIC 4+ processor does a good job managing noise, and Wi-Fi transfer to my phone worked reliably for quick Instagram posts.
The hybrid mode automatically captures a short video clip before each still, which is a fun touch for travelers. I noticed the battery drains faster than the KODAK FZ55, so I picked up a spare NB-11L battery for $15 and never worried about running out during a long day.
With 183 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, the feedback skews positive. The most common gripe is that Canon does not include an SD card in the box, which is fair at this price tier.
For whom this camera works best
Travelers and vloggers who want stronger image quality and real optical zoom in a pocket body will love the ELPH 360 HS. It is also a smart gift for parents who want something better than a phone but do not want to learn a DSLR.
For whom this camera falls short
Buyers on a tighter budget should look at the KODAK PIXPRO FZ55 or FZ45. If you need 4K video or interchangeable lenses, this is not the right tool.
3. KODAK PIXPRO FZ45 — Cheapest Capable Compact with AA Battery
Pros
- Under $110 price
- AA battery powered
- Compact and light
- 4x optical zoom
- Manual PASM modes
Cons
- AA battery life short
- Autofocus slow indoors
- No rechargeable pack included
- Durability complaints
The KODAK PIXPRO FZ45 is what I recommend when someone tells me they want a real camera for less than the cost of a nice dinner. At roughly $110, it is the cheapest capable compact I would trust for everyday photography, and the AA battery power means you can find replacements at any gas station on a road trip.
The 16MP sensor and 27mm wide angle lens cover most casual shooting scenarios. I tested it on a family beach day and the photos looked great on phone screens and printed photo books. The 4x optical zoom is modest compared to the FZ55, but at this price point, having optical zoom at all is a win.
One thing I appreciated: the manual PASM modes give beginners a path to grow into creative photography. Switching to aperture priority mode and watching depth of field change in real time taught me more than any YouTube tutorial.
With over 6,500 reviews, the consensus is that this is a solid starter camera with realistic limitations. Durability is the most cited complaint, so I would not throw it in a beach bag without a case. AA batteries last only about 100 shots, but you can swap in lithium AAs for triple the life.
For whom this camera works best
Anyone shopping for a gift for a kid, teen, or first-time photographer should put the FZ45 at the top of the list. It is also great for grandparents who want simple controls and easy battery swaps.
For whom this camera falls short
If you want reliable low-light performance or 4K video, spend more on the Canon ELPH 360 HS or the Duluvulu 4K camera.
4. Duluvulu 4K Digital Camera — Best Budget Pick for Vlogging
Pros
- Real 4K video
- 48MP stills
- 180° flip screen
- Two batteries included
- Webcam mode
- Face detection
Cons
- Battery life modest
- No external charger
- 16x digital zoom only
The Duluvulu 4K camera surprised me. I expected a toy at this price, but after a month of testing it as a B-roll camera and travel vlogging rig, I was impressed by how much it gets right for under $60. The 48MP photos and 4K video at this price were unthinkable a few years ago.
The 180-degree flip screen is the killer feature for solo creators. I could frame myself properly without guessing, and the face-detection autofocus tracked my son through the kitchen reliably. The webcam mode worked seamlessly with OBS and Zoom on my laptop, making this a strong pick for streamers on a budget.
Build quality is plastic, but it feels solid enough. Two batteries ship in the box, plus a 32GB SD card, which adds serious value. The fill light helps in dim rooms, and the HDMI output lets you monitor footage on a TV. Where it falls short is low-light performance: indoors after sunset, noise creeps in fast.
With nearly 2,700 reviews averaging 4.2 stars, the Duluvulu has built a loyal following among beginner YouTubers and TikTok creators. The main buyer complaint is battery life during long 4K shoots.
For whom this camera works best
Beginning content creators who want true 4K video and a flip screen at the lowest possible price will love this camera. It also makes a great secondary camera for a YouTuber who already owns a main rig.
For whom this camera falls short
Photographers who want strong still image quality and lens flexibility should look at the Canon EOS Rebel T7 instead. The Duluvulu has no optical zoom, only 16x digital.
5. Canon PowerShot SX530 HS — Long Zoom Powerhouse (Renewed)
Pros
- 50x optical zoom range
- Optical image stabilization
- Wi-Fi and NFC
- Renewed value
- Manual focus option
Cons
- Renewed quality varies
- No SD card
- Steady hands required at full zoom
- Battery life short
The Canon PowerShot SX530 HS is the camera I reach for when I cannot get physically close to my subject. The 50x optical zoom covers 24-1200mm equivalent, which means I can shoot birds in my backyard or my son on the soccer field from the opposite end of the pitch. As a renewed model, it lands well under $300 while delivering the same optics as the original.
Image stabilization is essential at this zoom range, and the optical system did a respectable job handheld at full telephoto. For best results at 1200mm, I leaned on a small tabletop tripod, which fits in any camera bag. Photos were crisp at wide and mid zoom, with some softness creeping in only at the very long end.
This is a renewed product, so quality varies. The unit I received looked essentially new with minor cosmetic marks, and Amazon backs it with a 90-day guarantee. Wi-Fi transfer worked fine for quick phone uploads.
With 132 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, owners love the zoom reach for wildlife and travel. The biggest complaints are around battery life and the lack of an SD card in the box.
For whom this camera works best
Wildlife watchers, sports parents, and travelers who want one camera that covers wide landscape to extreme telephoto will find this unbeatable at the price. Read more about zoom reach in our camera setup guide.
For whom this camera falls short
If you mostly shoot indoors or close-up portraits, the KODAK PIXPRO FZ55 is a more practical choice. The SX530 HS is bulky for a compact.
6. Lecran FHD 1080P Camera — Best Starter Camera for Kids and Teens
Pros
- Includes 32GB SD card
- Two rechargeable batteries
- Anti-shake stabilization
- Filter effects
- Lightweight 0.27kg
Cons
- Not waterproof
- Digital zoom only
- Durability concerns
- Flash is weak
The Lecran FHD 1080P camera is the camera I bought my 9-year-old nephew last Christmas. At under $40 with a 32GB card and two batteries in the box, it is the most generous budget package I have seen. A year later, my nephew has used it hundreds of times and it still works.
The 44MP stills are sharper than anything at this price tier has a right to be, and the 1080p video looks great on a phone. Anti-shake helps shaky hands, and the cute filter effects made my nephew excited to shoot instead of pointing a phone at everything. The webcam function let him record stop-motion videos with friends.
It is not waterproof, so I would not hand it to a kid at the pool without supervision. There is no optical zoom, just 16x digital, so cropping eats into quality fast. But for the price, the trade-offs feel fair.
Over 3,200 reviews and a 4.3 star average tell the story. Parents love it as a starter camera and Christmas gift. The 1-star reviews cluster around durability after drops, which is normal for any camera in this weight class.
For whom this camera works best
This is my top pick for kids ages 6-13 learning photography, and a strong backup camera for adults. It is also the cheapest way to add a camera to a classroom or scout troop kit.
For whom this camera falls short
Anyone serious about photography will want to step up to the KODAK PIXPRO FZ55 or Canon ELPH 360 HS. There is no viewfinder and the small LCD limits outdoor framing.
7. Canon EOS Rebel T7 — Only Interchangeable Lens Camera Under $500
Pros
- 24.1MP APS-C sensor
- EF and EF-S lens compatible
- 9-point AF system
- Wi-Fi and NFC
- Massive lens ecosystem
Cons
- Renewed product
- 3 fps burst only
- No Bluetooth
- Wi-Fi transfer slow
- Poor high ISO noise above 400
The Canon EOS Rebel T7 is the only interchangeable lens camera on this list under $500, and that alone makes it the right choice for someone who wants to grow into photography. As a renewed model, I scored it for $391 and got a DSLR that produces image quality far beyond any fixed-lens compact in this price range.
The 24.1MP APS-C sensor is the same size found in cameras costing three times as much. Shooting in RAW gave me huge editing latitude, with detail I could pull out of shadows that smartphones could not see. The included 18-55mm kit lens covers everything from wide landscapes to portraits, and Canon’s EF/EF-S mount opens the door to decades of lens options.
Battery life is exceptional. I shot 1,400 photos on a single charge over a long weekend, which is something no compact on this list can match. The 9-point autofocus is dated by modern mirrorless standards, but for static subjects it locks on reliably.
Low-light performance above ISO 400 is noisy, which is the T7’s biggest weakness. If you shoot indoors a lot without flash, expect grainy results. Continuous shooting is also slow at 3 fps, so this is not a sports camera.
With 311 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, owners consistently rank this among the best starter DSLRs you can buy renewed. The 77% five-star rating speaks to how well Canon built this camera and how carefully renewed sellers handle them.
For whom this camera works best
Beginners who want to learn manual controls, students in photography classes, and parents who want a serious camera for family memories will love the T7. If you want a future-proof system, this is the pick. Compare against other mirrorless options in our mirrorless under $500 guide.
For whom this camera falls short
If you want something compact and pocketable, the T7 is too bulky at 2.5 pounds. Travelers who prioritize size should choose the Canon ELPH 360 HS instead.
8. KODAK PIXPRO AZ528 — 52x Zoom Bridge Camera
Pros
- 52x optical zoom reach
- Optical image stabilization
- 6 fps burst shooting
- 25-point autofocus
- Wi-Fi sharing
Cons
- No viewfinder
- Screen hard to see in sun
- No memory card
- Battery life limited
The KODAK PIXPRO AZ528 is a bridge camera with 52x optical zoom covering 24-1248mm equivalent, which is the longest reach on this list. I took it to a local wildlife refuge and filled my SD card with shots of herons and eagles I could not have captured otherwise.
Optical image stabilization made handheld shooting at full zoom viable, although a tripod is still recommended for critical shots. The 6 fps burst mode is the fastest on this list, which helped me capture a hawk mid-dive. The 16MP BSI CMOS sensor delivered cleaner low-light photos than I expected from a small-sensor bridge.
The lack of a viewfinder is the biggest weakness. On a sunny day at the marsh, the LCD washed out and I had to shield it with my hand to frame shots. Battery life is around 250 shots, which is fine for a day trip but tight for longer outings.
Over 700 reviews averaging 4.2 stars show this camera finds a strong niche with nature photographers on a budget. Owners love the zoom range and the comfort of the bridge-style grip.
For whom this camera works best
Wildlife and sports enthusiasts who want one camera with massive reach will appreciate the AZ528. It is also a smart pick for travelers who want to skip changing lenses in dusty environments.
For whom this camera falls short
Anyone shooting in bright sunlight needs a viewfinder. Look at the Canon SX530 HS if viewfinder-free framing is a dealbreaker.
9. KODAK PIXPRO AZ405 — Travel-Friendly Bridge with AA Power
Pros
- 40x optical zoom
- AA batteries worldwide
- 20MP sensor
- Optical image stabilization
- HDMI output
Cons
- Battery drains fast
- No Wi-Fi without Eye-Fi
- SD slot shares battery door
- Lock-up issues reported
The KODAK PIXPRO AZ405 is my pick for international travelers who do not want to hunt for a specific battery charger overseas. AA batteries power this camera, and they are sold in every airport gift shop and corner store worldwide. I tested it on a 12-day trip to Iceland and never worried about power.
The 40x optical zoom covers 24-960mm equivalent, which is plenty for landscapes, architecture, and distant wildlife. The 20MP sensor captures more detail than the AZ528, and the optical image stabilization keeps handheld shots sharp at mid-zoom ranges.
The major quirk is that the SD card slot shares the battery door, so removing the card resets your date and time settings. Annoying, but not a dealbreaker. Battery life with AAs is around 200 shots, so I carried a dozen lithium AAs as backup.
Wi-Fi is not built in, which feels dated. To get wireless transfer, you need to buy an Eye-Fi SD card, which is an extra expense most buyers can skip.
With over 1,600 reviews averaging 4.1 stars, the AZ405 has earned its place in travel photography kits. The 12% one-star reviews cluster around lock-up issues, which KODAK has addressed in newer firmware.
For whom this camera works best
Frequent international travelers, backpackers, and anyone who values battery flexibility over Wi-Fi will love this camera. It also works well for family vacations where you want one camera that does everything.
For whom this camera falls short
If Wi-Fi transfer matters to you, choose the Canon SX530 HS or Canon ELPH 360 HS. If you want maximum zoom reach, the AZ528 covers more.
10. KODAK PIXPRO WPZ2 — Waterproof Camera for Beach and Pool
Pros
- Waterproof to 50 feet
- Shockproof from 2m drops
- Dustproof sealed body
- Lightweight 6.21 oz
- Wi-Fi sharing
Cons
- Image quality behind phones
- Small LCD underwater
- Micro USB outdated
- 32GB card max
- Menu navigation clunky
The KODAK PIXPRO WPZ2 is the camera I pack for every beach and snorkeling trip. Waterproof to 15 meters (50 feet), shockproof from 2-meter drops, and dustproof sealed, it survives conditions that would destroy any other camera on this list. I took it snorkeling in Cozumel and came back with vivid fish photos without needing a separate housing.
The 16MP sensor produces solid results in bright outdoor light. Underwater, colors shift toward blue, which is normal and easily corrected in any photo editor. The 4x optical zoom (27-108mm equivalent) is modest but useful for shooting distant marine life.
Build quality feels tough. I dropped it from waist height onto concrete and it kept shooting. The micro USB charging port is dated, and the 32GB card limit feels small in 2026, but the ruggedness trade-off is worth it.
With nearly 3,900 reviews averaging 4.2 stars, the WPZ2 is a beloved choice among families, snorkelers, and outdoor enthusiasts. The 11% one-star reviews mostly mention the menu being clunky and the slow shutter speed in low light.
For whom this camera works best
This is the camera for beach vacations, pool parties, snorkeling trips, kayaking, and ski days. If you have a habit of dropping phones in water, this is your answer.
For whom this camera falls short
For everyday landlocked photography, the KODAK FZ55 produces better image quality for less money. The WPZ2 is purpose-built for water and rough use.
How to Choose the Best Camera Under $500: Buying Guide
Buying a camera in this price range is less about specs and more about matching the tool to your shooting style. I have tested dozens of budget cameras over the years, and these are the five factors that matter most.
Sensor size and what it really means
The sensor is the part of the camera that captures light, and bigger sensors generally mean better image quality, especially in low light. In this price range, you will find three sensor sizes: small 1/2.3 inch sensors in compact and bridge models (about 6.17×4.55mm), larger APS-C sensors in the Canon EOS Rebel T7 (about 22.2×14.8mm), and Micro Four Thirds sensors in some mirrorless models (17.3x13mm).
A larger sensor gathers more light, which means cleaner photos at sunset and in dim rooms. The Canon EOS Rebel T7 with its APS-C sensor delivers image quality that no compact in this roundup can match, even though the compact cameras may advertise more megapixels. Megapixels are not the whole story. The Canon Rebel T7 has 24.1 megapixels on an APS-C sensor, while the KODAK AZ528 has 16 megapixels on a tiny sensor, and the T7 photos are clearly sharper.
Mirrorless vs DSLR vs compact: which fits you?
The traditional DSLR uses a mirror mechanism and an optical viewfinder. DSLRs are bulky but have excellent battery life and access to massive lens ecosystems. The Canon EOS Rebel T7 on this list is a DSLR.
Mirrorless cameras drop the mirror for a smaller body and an electronic viewfinder. None of the cameras in this roundup are full mirrorless systems, though Canon and Sony make excellent entry mirrorless bodies slightly above $500.
Compact cameras keep a fixed lens and a small body. They are the most convenient choice for casual photography, travel, and gifts. Most cameras on this list are compacts or bridge cameras (a hybrid style with superzoom lenses).
New vs renewed vs used: getting more camera for your money
This roundup includes two renewed products (the Canon PowerShot SX530 HS and the Canon EOS Rebel T7) because renewed gear is one of the smartest ways to stretch a $500 budget. Amazon Renewed items are inspected, cleaned, and tested by qualified suppliers and come with a 90-day guarantee.
Buying used from eBay or camera-specific sites like MPB and KEH can save even more, but you give up the Amazon-backed return policy. If you go that route, buy from sellers with high feedback scores and look for shutter count on DSLRs. A well-treated Canon EOS Rebel T7 with 5,000 shutter actuations has decades of life left.
Video features that actually matter
If you shoot video, 4K is the headline spec, but most online platforms compress 4K heavily, so 1080p footage at a high bit rate often looks better than sloppy 4K. The Duluvulu 4K is the cheapest real 4K option here, while the Canon ELPH 360 HS and KODAK models stick to crisp 1080p Full HD.
Look for a flip screen if you vlog solo. The Duluvulu’s 180-degree flip screen made framing myself a breeze, while rear-only screens force guesswork. Optical image stabilization matters more for video than megapixel count.
Total cost of ownership: lenses, batteries, and memory
The sticker price is just the start. For a compact camera, you will need an SD card (around $10 for 64GB), a spare battery (about $15 for Canon NB-11L), and ideally a small case (around $15). For the Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR, expect to budget for an additional lens if you want telephoto reach, since the kit 18-55mm covers only wide to short telephoto.
Compact cameras on this list include fixed lenses that cover most situations, which keeps total cost down. If you want maximum flexibility, plan for a $200-300 telephoto zoom lens for the T7.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best digital camera under $500?
The KODAK PIXPRO FZ55 is the best overall value, combining 5x optical zoom, 1080p video, and a pocketable body for around $140. For a serious upgrade with interchangeable lenses, the Canon EOS Rebel T7 in renewed condition delivers 24.1MP APS-C image quality near $390.
Is mirrorless or DSLR better for beginners?
Both work well for beginners. DSLRs like the Canon EOS Rebel T7 offer longer battery life, an optical viewfinder, and access to a huge lens ecosystem. Mirrorless bodies are smaller and lighter with modern autofocus, but most entry mirrorless cameras with good specs sit above $500. For under $500, the Canon Rebel T7 in renewed condition is the best interchangeable-lens pick.
Should I buy new or used cameras at this price point?
A renewed or gently used camera is the smartest way to stretch a $500 budget. Renewed Canon and Sony models from Amazon Renewed come with a 90-day guarantee and look essentially unused. Buying used from eBay or MPB can save 30-50% on camera bodies and pro lenses, though you give up the Amazon return policy.
What should I look for in a beginner camera?
Prioritize sensor size over megapixels, optical zoom over digital, and an ergonomic grip you can hold comfortably. A flip screen helps for vlogging and self-portraits. Built-in Wi-Fi makes it easy to share photos to your phone. Finally, choose a brand with a healthy lens ecosystem if you plan to grow into interchangeable lenses.
Can I get a good camera for under $500?
Yes, absolutely. The cameras on this list include waterproof bodies, 52x superzoom lenses, and a 24.1MP APS-C DSLR. Image quality at this price tier is significantly better than a smartphone for any scene with optical zoom, depth of field, or challenging lighting. For most beginners and casual photographers, a $200-400 camera delivers all the image quality you need.
Final Verdict: My Top Camera Picks Under $500
After 90 days of real-world testing across photography, vlogging, and travel scenarios, the best digital cameras under $500 in 2026 come down to three standout picks. The KODAK PIXPRO FZ55 wins for best budget value, offering real optical zoom, USB-C charging, and a sub-4-ounce body that disappears in a pocket. The Canon EOS Rebel T7 in renewed condition is the right choice if you want to grow into a serious system, with its 24.1MP APS-C sensor and access to the entire Canon EF lens lineup. The Canon PowerShot ELPH 360 HS covers the middle ground for travelers who want strong image quality without the bulk.
For specialty needs, the KODAK PIXPRO WPZ2 handles beach and pool duty, the AZ528 and AZ405 deliver 40-52x superzoom for wildlife, and the Duluvulu 4K is the cheapest way to start vlogging. Whatever you choose, every camera on this list punches well above its weight class. Pick the one that matches how you actually shoot, and you will be rewarded with photos that put your smartphone to shame. Check our vintage digital camera guide if you also want a fun retro option for everyday carry.