Most camera makers are focusing on mirrorless systems these days, but that doesn't mean the digital SLR system is dead. DSLRs are still the go-to cameras for many professionals and some entry-level ones are perfect for getting beginners started on their photography journey.
There are only two major brands still making DSRLs – Canon and Nikon – and they both have some excellent options to choose from. However, it's always great to keep an eye out for a bargain price on a new camera (after all, it is a hefty investment) and, right now, you'll be able to pocket some savings on some of Canon's most popular and excellent DSLRs.
There's one to suit almost every budget and skill level, starting from the entry-level and already affordable EOS 1500D to the professional EOS 5D Mark IV. So whether you're after a kit to get you started or just a new body to go with your existing lenses, take a look at the deals below and click on the green button if any of them tickle your fancy.
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Canon EOS 1500D + EF-S 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 III kit lens | AU$599 (RRP AU$699; save AU$100)
It's one of Canon's most affordable beginner DSLRs and it comes with a standard 18-55mm kit lens to get you started. It's got a 24.1MP APS-C size sensor under the hood that spews out impressive images that can be printed up to A2 size without loss of details. There's a built-in feature guide that will walk you through the camera's setup and the automatic shooting modes are perfect for first-timers. It's also a camera that can grow with you while you learn. And you can save AU$100 on this already affordable kit when shopping at JB Hi-Fi.
Canon EOS 200D Mark II + EF-S 18-55mm f/4.5-6 IS STM | AU$875 (RRP AU$999; save AU$124)
UPDATE: This item is currently out of stock but do check back in case more stock arrives. We'll update this deal as soon as it does.
The second iteration of the popular EOS 200D is every bit as impressive as the first and is arguably the best DSLR for beginners. From a stills perspective, the Mark II has nothing over its predecessor, but if you're keen on videography, then the 200D II offers 4K UHD recording at 25/24p with a max recording time of 30 minutes. Other specs include a 24.1MP APS-C CMOS sensor, 5fps burst speed and a 9-point AF system. It's got a really sharp rear LCD display and an equally good optical viewfinder. It's truly worth every penny for a beginner, and this offer is available from VideoPro's eBay store, and includes Canon's five-year warranty.
Canon EOS 800D + EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS STM | AU$970 (RRP AU$1,499; save AU$529)
This DSLR has a successor in the form of the EOS 850D but that doesn't mean this ageing model is any less impressive. It's still a popular choice, with excellent performance, and will suit both beginners and enthusiasts alike. Better yet, this "super kit" as Canon calls it, is currently out of stock at most retailers, but you can get it from Myer's official eBay store for significantly less.
Canon EOS 6D Mark II (body only) | AU$1,690 (RRP AU$2,149; save AU$459)
This full-frame DSLR is ageing really well and is still one of the best enthusiast-level cameras available today. Its image quality is superb, performance excellent and, like all Canon cameras, is intuitive and easy to use, even if you're a beginner. While Canon has a RRP of over AU$2,100 slapped on the camera, it's possible to get the 6D Mark II for under the 2K mark. However, head to eBay and VideoPro is offering it for a very affordable AU$1,690, saving you a decent chunk of change that you can potentially put towards a good EF lens.
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV (body only) | AU$3,599 + bonus EF 50mm f/1.4 USM lens (RRP AU$4,100; save AU$501)
Ready to step it up a notch? Then grab the DSLR that's still the favourite of many professional photographers and save over AU$500 on the cost of the body alone when shopping from Digital Camera World. But that's not all – if you register your camera with Canon, you also become eligible to score a bonus 50mm f/1.4 prime lens worth AU$549, taking your total savings up to AU$1,050! This discounted price ends September 30, although you have until the end of October to redeem your free lens.
Why choose a DSLR over mirrorless?
If you're wondering whether you should choose a DSLR in the age of mirrorless cameras, we've got a handy explainer on mirrorless vs DSLR to help you decide. Admittedly there are size advantages the mirrorless systems have, but there are some things a DSLR still does better.
To put it all in a nutshell, here are the advantages a DSLR has over a mirrorless system:
1. You get a wider choice of lenses
2. Better autofocus and low-light performance (although mirrorless cameras are doing better and better with each new offering)
3. Optical viewfinders (OVF) on DSLRs show you exactly what you're going to capture, while electronic viewfinders (EVF) show you a preview
4. DSLRs have significantly better battery life
Read more:
Best Canon camera you can buy in 2020
Best Canon superzoom lenses for DSLRs and mirrorless
Best standard zoom lenses for Canon
Best portrait lenses for EOS users
Best Canon wide-angle lenses
