The Nikon D3500 is part of Nikon’s legendary D3XXX line of entry-level DSLR cameras – and although it was discontinued in 2022, I still think it’s one of the best cameras for beginners or students working on a tight budget. Although it can occasionally be found new, you’ll likely need to pick up a used D3500. Expect to pay around $250-$350 / £250-£400 in the UK or US depending on condition and accessories.
You might be thinking, but the Canon EOS R100 isn’t much more expensive and that’s a brand-new mirrorless camera. Plus, let’s not forget, it plummeted to $299 / £379 (body-only) over Black Friday. It really is hard to argue with the R100, which is the closest you’re going to get to a mirrorless Nikon D3500 (unless Nikon returns to the entry-level market).
