Best overall for beginners
Sony ZV-E10 — easy, great autofocus, strong value.
TL;DR (Quick Picks)
Best photo-first
Fujifilm X-T5 — excellent image quality and color.
Best lightweight full-frame
Canon EOS R8 — strong AF, compact full-frame option.
How to choose (Beginner checklist)
Autofocus matters more than megapixels
Face/eye AF and tracking makes learning easier and improves keeper rate.
Start with one good lens
A kit lens is okay, but a simple prime (e.g., 35mm/50mm equivalent) teaches faster.
Don’t overpay for features you won’t use
Prioritize usability, battery, menus, and stabilization over niche specs.
Starter kits by budget
$700–900
- Sony ZV-E10 + 16-50mm kit — add a 35mm f/1.8 later.
- Canon R10 + 18-45mm — light, great colors, easy menus.
$1,200–1,600
- Sony A6700 + 18-135mm — versatile travel zoom, excellent AF.
- Fujifilm X-S20 + 18-55mm — IBIS and film sims for great JPEGs.
$1,600–2,000
- Sony A7 IV + 28-70mm — full-frame hybrid with deep lens options.
- Canon EOS R8 + 24-105mm RF — lightweight full-frame starter.
Mistakes to avoid
Ignoring lenses
Body matters, but lenses shape your look. Budget for at least one good prime.
Skipping audio
If you film, set aside money for a simple on-camera mic; bad audio ruins video.
Overbuying specs
4K120 and huge megapixels aren’t needed to learn. Focus on ergonomics and AF.
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