10 Best DSLR Cameras in the Philippines 2024 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Photographer and Graphic Artist
If you're ready to get a new camera, you may want to look into getting a Digital Single-Lens Reflex camera or a DSLR. Producing better image quality, better sensitivity to light, and flexible controls, it's a must-have for photographers. Pictures are embodiments of memories, so a high-quality camera is definitely a good investment, may it be for professional or leisure use.
To help you in choosing the best DSLR to get, especially if it's your first time shopping for one, we've curated our top 10 picks for the best DSLR cameras that you can get. We also put together a buying guide with comments from freelance photographer and graphic artist Kenneth Aballa that captures all that you need to know and keep in mind before pushing through with your purchase. Read on below to get your perfect DSLR camera!
Quick List - Top DSLR Cameras
An art director and a freelance photographer who shoots portraits, food, events, and products. Loves taking photos be it digital or film.
Our recommendation articles are carefully researched and crafted by the mybest Philippines team of writers and editors. To stay true to our company’s mission and vision to help users’ selection process easier, we also collaborate with experts from various fields to ensure that our content stays factual and useful.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Table of Contents
- How Does a DSLR Camera Work?
- How to Choose a DSLR Camera - Buying Guide
- Determine the Right Sensor Size for You1
- Select the Type of Lens That Suits Your Needs2
- Get High-Quality Photos and Videos With Autofocus Features and IS Technology3
- Inspect Its Display Components for Hassle-Free Viewing4
- Check if the ISO Sensitivity Is at Least 200 ISO for Adequate Lighting5
- Choose a High Frame Rate of at Least 5-7 FPS for Fast-Paced Photography6
- Opt for a DSLR With High-Definition Capabilities for Large-Scale Images and Videos7
- Get a Camera With Dual Memory Card Slots for More Storage8
- Go for a Camera With a Longer Battery Life for Longer Usage9
- Look at Additional Features and Accessories That Add More Value10
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How Often Should I Clean My DSLR Camera?
- How Many Megapixels Is Good for a DSLR Camera?
- Are DSLRs Good for Shooting Videos?
- Take Your Photography Skills to the Next Level
- How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
How Does a DSLR Camera Work?
A DSLR is a digital camera that allows you to change its lens attachments while using the same camera body. Thanks to this feature, you'll be able to adjust the type of lens depending on the type of image that you want to capture. It uses a mirror to reflect light that passes through the lens.
Upon releasing the shutter, the mirror moves, opening a path for the light to travel to the sensor. DSLRs have minimal shutter delays, which is similar to taking burst photos in smartphones but with better and sharper quality. It also has optical viewfinders, which are very useful for checking your shots.
Aside from DSLRs, another popular type of camera is the mirrorless camera. Be mindful because they look very similar to DSLRs, but mirrorless cameras operate without the use of a mirror and, therefore, don't have optical viewfinders.
DSLR cameras are versatile cameras that produce high-quality images for different shooting scenes. The ability to change lenses and the presence of a viewfinder still makes it a top choice for a camera when compared to mirrorless cameras, point-and-shoot cameras, action cameras, and more.
How to Choose a DSLR Camera - Buying Guide
Here are some key points to consider:
- Determine the right sensor size for you.
- Select the type of lens that suits your needs.
- Get high-quality photos and videos with autofocus features and IS technology.
- Inspect its display components for hassle-free viewing.
- Check if the ISO sensitivity is at least 200 ISO for adequate lighting.
- Choose a high frame rate of at least 5-7 FPS for fast-paced photography.
- Opt for a DSLR with high-definition capabilities for large-scale images and videos.
- Get a camera with dual memory card slots for more storage.
- Go for a camera with a longer battery life for longer usage.
- Look at additional features and accessories that add more value.
For more detailed information, read through our buying guide below.
Determine the Right Sensor Size for You
One of the most important things to consider when buying a DSLR camera is its sensor size, since determines the quality of the images. A larger sensor captures more light and yields a higher-quality photo. But, if you’re a beginner, you may want to choose a smaller size first. Here are the common sensor sizes found in DSLR cameras.
APS-C Sensor Captures Images in Motion Clearly
The most common sensor size for DSLR cameras is APS-C, also known as cropped sensors. It's relatively smaller than full-frame sensors, and is perfect for capturing still images of moving objects. Plus, APS-C cameras are light and compact, which makes them the perfect traveling companion for animal or sports photography.
For images in motion, I believe you can use both full-frame and APS-C with no problem. You just have to adjust the shutter speed to capture it perfectly.
But as mentioned, APS-C sensors are less bulkier than full-frame cameras and are much cheaper. An APS-C camera is perfect for everyday use and hobbyists. Also, a cropped sensor will also affect the lenses.
Full-Frame Sensor Is Ideal for Wide-Angle Images
Full-frame cameras produce images of higher quality because the larger the sensor, the higher the number of pixels. This captures more light and produces finer details, which also makes it perfect for portrait photography. If you’re a professional photographer, you may want to invest in full-frame cameras!
If you are planning to progress and shoot under different conditions, investing in a full-frame camera will be worth it. It performs better under low light and the image quality is just different compared to APS-C sensors.
Select the Type of Lens That Suits Your Needs
DSLRs have interchangeable lenses, making your camera versatile and customizable. When looking for lenses, there are two things to consider: the aperture and focal length.
The aperture determines how big the opening of the lens is, while the focal length determines the scope of the scene that will be captured as well as the apparent size of the elements in the image. For example, a lens with a wide aperture is perfect for landscape photography, while macro lenses are suitable for close-up shots.
Prime lenses with a focal length of 50 mm and an aperture of f/1.8 guarantee high-quality photos. Whatever your style of photography is, there will be lenses suitable for your needs. However, keep in mind that some lenses are restricted to certain sensors or camera types, so make sure to check the compatibility with your camera first.
Investing in a good lens is something one should keep in mind. A good DSLR can underperform with a bad lens, so you must choose a lens that fits your shooting style. You can go for zoom lenses if your subject is far, prime lenses for portraits, and even wide lenses for landscape photos. Also, make sure to check the build of the lenses, if it's made up of purely plastic or with metal parts for durability.
Get High-Quality Photos and Videos With Autofocus Features and IS Technology
To get high-quality pictures and videos, we must also look into the DSLR's autofocus feature and IS technology. Let's discuss them in greater detail below.
Autofocus Gives You Sharp and Precise Images Quickly
It is important for your camera to have an autofocus system that is sharp, precise, and fast. If you value precision, there are DSLR cameras that use phase-detection methods to autofocus.
You may also consider cameras with contrast-detection focusing methods for both speed and precision. This feature is perfect for shooting crisp and clear videos as well as moving objects. No matter what kind of autofocus your camera has, this is very helpful for beginners.
Most cameras nowadays have autofocus features which are very helpful in shooting. Usually, cameras adjust the focus with a soft press on the shutter or a tap on the screen. Some cameras now can detect when the subject is moving and adjusts automatically.
Avoid Blurry Photos With Image Stabilization Technology
Several factors may cause shakiness and instability, leading to blurry photos. This is where Image Stabilization or IS technology comes into play. Some cameras have built-in IS technology, but if not, you can apply it to your lens instead. This way, you'll be able to customize it according to the type of lens that you're using.
Just like with the autofocus feature, IS technology usually comes with the camera, but some entry-level cameras do not have this. IS technology helps when your hands are not stable or when you are shooting with a low shutter speed. If your camera does not have this, some lenses have IS technology as well.
Inspect Its Display Components for Hassle-Free Viewing
One of the advantages of DSLRs is their ability to review photos upon taking them. This is possible due to the presence of optical viewfinders and monitors.
Viewfinders With a Large Frame Coverage Give a Wider View of the Subject
Viewfinders play an important role in photography since they allow you to view the image upon taking them. Some viewfinders are made of glass, while others are made of coated plastic. The ones made of glass provide a brighter image. However, those made of plastic are lighter and more compact.
Aside from the material, you should also consider the coverage area. Ideally, you would want to view the entire subject in the frame. This is why you should check if the camera has 100% frame coverage to get the optimal experience.
The viewfinder is the small window where you peek to see your subject. Most photographers (including myself) prefer a viewfinder made of glass since it's clearer and more durable than those made of plastic.
Choose a Monitor Size Wide Enough for Checking Your Photo Easily
Over the years, the monitor design of DSLR cameras has greatly improved. You can now choose among cameras with large monitor screens, high playback resolutions, flexible monitor tilting, and touch screen functions. Most digital cameras nowadays have 3-inch monitor screens.
If you find this too small, you may buy on-camera monitors. However, be careful in choosing the size because a bigger one can decrease the image quality since it will require a higher resolution. You may select a 5-inch screen instead, as it already supports HD resolution.
This criterion highly depends on the user's preference. There are monitors that only function with buttons, and there are also those that are touch screens. Some can be flipped and tilted, while some are fixed. When choosing, it's best that you think about your shooting style! Personally, I prefer those screens that can be flipped and/or tilted since it is very handy when I'm shooting from above or below the subject.
Check if the ISO Sensitivity Is at Least 200 ISO for Adequate Lighting
ISO is the numerical representation of a camera’s ability to capture light. The higher the ISO, the lesser the amount of light needed for the same level of exposure. Usually, the ISO range is between 200 and 1600, but given the current advancements, some cameras can go beyond that range.
For outdoor shooting, a low ISO such as 100 or 200 is used because it works well in bright environments. For indoor settings, a high ISO like 1600 is often used. However, high ISOs may add “noise” to the image. The good news is that DSLRs have large sensors and pixels, which allow them to overcome this trade-off.
ISO is the light intake of your camera. The higher the ISO, the more light it takes, but the grainier the image gets. The lower the ISO, the less light and grain. As mentioned, if your camera has an ISO of 200-1600, it will suffice for everyday shooting and even studio shoots. High ISO is usually needed for low-light environments, if you are not usually shooting under low-light, then you won't benefit from cameras with high ISO.
Choose a High Frame Rate of at Least 5-7 FPS for Fast-Paced Photography
Frames per second, or FPS for short, is the number of individual frames or shots that comprise a photo or video recording. This is highly important for those who like to shoot fast-paced subjects like animals or sporting events. To get the best results, get a DSLR with at least 5-7 FPS.
This means that the camera can shoot a continuous burst of 5-7 pictures per second. As a result, your photos will be clear and precise, including your action shots. If you want as much clarity as possible, you can even find a camera with a higher FPS of 12 or more.
If you would like to put more creativity into your work, look for a camera that can also shoot 60fps or higher for smooth slow motion videos. Normal cameras can only shoot 24fps/30fps, which is enough for daily videos.
Opt for a DSLR With High-Definition Capabilities for Large-Scale Images and Videos
One of the main reasons that people buy DSLRs is because they want to take higher-quality pictures. This is why DSLRs usually have Full HD image resolutions, which means that they're able to take crisp and clear photos that measure 1920 x 1080 pixels.
But, the functionality of DSLR cameras doesn't stop at image taking. Nowadays, these cameras have been upgraded to be able to record videos, going up to 4K resolution. This resolution already enables you to take vivid and bright footage. Aside from this, it is also crucial to check the range of allowable exposure and audio adjustments to suit your needs.
Most DSLRs nowadays not only capture photos but videos too. It's highly recommended that you get one with at least 720p or 1080p as this would give you good quality that's enough for uploading HD videos on the web.
Get a Camera With Dual Memory Card Slots for More Storage
Unlike other cameras, DSLRs store content on a memory card. If you’re a professional photographer or if you have tons of video footage, you may want to consider getting a DSLR with dual memory card slots. This way, you don’t have to worry about running out of storage anymore!
This is dependent on the user's preference, but this is very helpful for photographers during long shoots. I personally like a camera with 2 memory slots for more storage and better shooting options. For example, 1 memory card stores RAW files while the other stores jpeg, compressed, or low-resolution files for faster viewing.
Go for a Camera With a Longer Battery Life for Longer Usage
For long shoots or trips, you would need a camera that preferably lasts all day long. Fortunately, DSLRs are built with optical viewfinders, which consume less power than their electronic counterparts. For longer battery life, look out for DSLRs with power-saving mode.
Compared to mirrorless cameras, DSLR cameras have a longer battery life because there is the option of shooting with the viewfinder and turning off the screen. Having an extra battery when shooting is useful so you can shuffle charging and using it during long shoots.
Look at Additional Features and Accessories That Add More Value
Aside from the above-mentioned specifications, it would also be good to check out the camera's extra features, such as the built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, for more effortless file transfer. If the unit you're eyeing does not support these, you can opt to buy additional accessories in order to enable these features.
On the other hand, if taking videos is your main purpose, you can also check if the camera supports external microphones and headphone jacks. The HDMI output function is also essential so that you can connect your camera to a TV for playback purposes.
I recommend getting a camera with Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity for ease of use. Transferring photos will be a whole lot easier with Wi-Fi compared to setting up card readers during actual shoots. Also, with Bluetooth/Wi-Fi, you can connect accessories such as wireless triggers and studio lights which can make your shoot setup better.
An HDMI port and audio jack will be extremely helpful for videographers so you might want to look for those when choosing a camera.
10 Best DSLR Cameras to Buy Online
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Canon EOS-1D X Mark II DSLR | | A Sophisticated Camera With Powerful Sensors and Fast Recording | |
2 | Nikon D780 | | Get Cinematic Quality Images With This Camera's Dynamic Range and Superb Resolution | |
3 | Canon EOS 250D | | A Lightweight Camera With Features for Both Pros and Beginners | |
4 | Canon EOS 200D Mark II | | Has an Eye-Detection Feature for Capturing Beautiful Portraits | |
5 | Canon EOS 800D | | Boasts a Super Fast Autofocus System | |
6 | Pentax K-70 | | A Dustproof and Weather-Resistant Camera for Outdoor Photography | |
7 | Canon EOS 90D | | Fast and Versatile for Sports Photography | |
8 | Canon EOS 80D | | A Light yet Sturdy Camera for Travel Vlogging | |
9 | Nikon D5600 | | The Best Camera for Low-Light Photography | |
10 | Canon EOS 4000D | | An Entry-Level Camera With Enough Manual Controls to Help Beginners Develop Skills |
CanonEOS-1D X Mark II DSLR
A Sophisticated Camera With Powerful Sensors and Fast Recording
If you're looking for a DSLR camera that can keep up with a fast-paced event or lifestyle, then the Canon EOS-1D X Mark II DSLR is for you. It has ultra-powerful sensors that enable you to capture high-quality images quickly, so you will never miss the perfect shot for your precious moments.
It also has a high-speed processing feature, perfect for recording 4K videos at 60 fps. This camera is equipped with smooth autofocus (AF), so your videos will come out looking cinematic with strikingly clear detail. If you're a content creator, this will be very useful, especially when filming your travel experiences.
Get Cinematic Quality Images With This Camera's Dynamic Range and Superb Resolution
The D780 may be on the expensive side, but it has exceptional specs that justify it. For one, this full-frame camera has a 51-point autofocus system and 7 FPS. Also, its image sensor can capture a remarkable amount of light, resulting in highly detailed photos and videos, even in low light.
It has a built-in time code feature that enables you to synchronize with multiple cameras at once. If you're into astrophotography, you may consider this model too due to its long exposure feature. Since it has a dual SD card slot, it will let you store twice as much content. With all these capabilities, it will truly give you cinematic shots.
A Lightweight Camera With Features for Both Pros and Beginners
Despite its light and compact build, the EOS 250D is packed with noteworthy features. It can capture 24.1-megapixel photos and 4K videos, making it suitable for professional photography. On the other hand, for those new to photography, it offers a Guided UI and Creative Assist feature to help hone your craft.
This camera is also perfect for outdoor adventures due to its portability and long battery life, allowing for 1,070 shots per charge. After capturing photos or videos, you can instantly send them to your devices using the built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth features. Users who have purchased this camera mention that it serves as a solid stepping stone into DSLR photography.
CanonEOS 200D Mark II
Has an Eye-Detection Feature for Capturing Beautiful Portraits
One of the pros of getting the EOS 200D Mark II camera is its ability to use the subject's eye as an autofocus point when shooting portraits and close-up shots. For more creative shots, the vari-angle touchscreen monitor and optical viewfinder will help you take portraits from various angles.
However, this camera is not only great with portraits. Its 4K full HD video resolution makes it a good option for shooting videos as well. It also has a guided display mode that provides tips and tricks on how to make the most out of your camera. With all its features, it's a good versatile all-around camera to have.
CanonEOS 800D
Boasts a Super Fast Autofocus System
The EOS 800D claims to have the world's fastest Live View Auto Focus system of 0.03 seconds. This allows you to capture fast-moving subjects without compromising precision. You also wouldn't have to miss a beat, thanks to its 6 FPS feature. If you like shooting wildlife or other elements of nature, you will appreciate this.
Plus, it has a 3" Vari-angle touchscreen LCD that makes shooting 1080p videos a whole lot easier. This feature allows you to see what you're working on and lets you check if you need to adjust the settings to get the best possible angle and shot. If you value speed and precision, then this camera is perfect for you!
PentaxK-70
A Dustproof and Weather-Resistant Camera for Outdoor Photography
The Pentax K70 is a perfect example of a heavy-duty camera. Despite its compact build, it is physically capable of enduring extreme weather due to its dustproof and weather-resistant body. It also has a shake reduction mechanism that will ensure the images you're able to take look sharper.
Aside from that, it's also capable of reducing noise in images, thanks to its ISO sensitivity range of up to 102,400. With its live view mode, you will surely capture crisper pictures and videos. For the cherry on top, its optical viewfinder has a 100% field of view, which will help you to take high-quality photos.
CanonEOS 90D
Fast and Versatile for Sports Photography
Featuring a powerful 32.5 Megapixel CMOS (APS-C) sensor, it has the ability to capture high-quality photos even in low-light or fast-paced environments, making it very suitable for sports photography. Having fast AF, you won't need to fret about the clarity of your shots, too. You can truly live in the moment with this one.
Not only can you take amazing photos with this device, but you can also take superb videos too! You can record uncropped 4K videos at up to 30 frames per second, so you will be able to produce videos that will make the viewer feel as if they're there in the scene with you. You won't regret picking this DSLR to capture your experiences.
CanonEOS 80D
A Light yet Sturdy Camera for Travel Vlogging
Are you looking for a light yet durable camera for your next adventure? The EOS 80D might be the perfect one for you! This camera is built with a polycarbonate exterior and magnesium alloy chassis. It has a body that is water and dust-resistant, so you can take it anywhere without any hassle.
What makes it perfect for vlogging is its 20.2-megapixel resolution and 45-point autofocus system, enabling you to capture moving objects even in low light. Although it doesn't support 4K videos, it can still record 1080p footage with various modes such as time-lapse and high dynamic range (HDR) effects.
The Best Camera for Low-Light Photography
This DSLR camera has an ISO range of 100 - 25,600 and an expanded sensitivity of 6,400, making it capable of handling both bright and low-light situations. It also has a built-in flash, which allows you to capture great photos even at night. This makes it perfect for bringing along to day-to-night events.
Plus, the D5600 has in-camera tools that will allow you to explore different settings and modes. For example, it can also capture subjects in motion with its 5 FPS continuous shooting ability. If you want a reliable camera that you can use to practice your photography skills, get this model from Nikon!
CanonEOS 4000D
An Entry-Level Camera With Enough Manual Controls to Help Beginners Develop Skills
Are you looking for an affordable yet highly capable camera? If so, consider getting this unit from Canon! The EOS 4000D is made of all-polycarbonate material, making it lightweight and budget-friendly. It has an 18-megapixel sensor which is already capable of producing good quality images.
It also has a built-in flash that can help you adjust the light in dark settings. Additionally, it can connect via Wi-Fi to back up your photos and videos. Overall, this camera has complete features but is still easy to use, making it a perfect entry point to photography. If you're just starting out, this is the perfect one for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some of the most asked questions on the web answered by Kenneth Aballa.
How Often Should I Clean My DSLR Camera?
Whenever you need to! But most especially when:
- You live in an area that is dusty/sandy.
- You have to frequently change your lenses.
- You always shoot outdoors.
- You notice dirt inside your camera/lens when you shoot.
Aside from cleaning your sensor and mirror, also make it a habit to clean the exterior of your camera as well as your lenses. If you are not used to cleaning or if you're afraid of damaging your camera, you can go to a camera store and have it cleaned there instead.
Investing in a good case for your camera and lenses is also a good practice. This will protect it from bumps and scratches. It will also keep out moisture to avoid the formation of fungus in the mirrors.
How Many Megapixels Is Good for a DSLR Camera?
10-20 megapixels would suffice for the average user. Most do not need a high-megapixel camera, especially when you'll only upload it online or if you'll only print small images.
Are DSLRs Good for Shooting Videos?
Yes. Most DSLRs nowadays are capable of shooting 4k videos (or even higher) with higher frames per second which is enough to produce even a cinematic film.
More Tips from Kenneth Aballa
- When purchasing a DSLR camera, always match it with what you need. A high-end camera is useless if you will not be able to maximize its features, so make sure to match it to your needs.
- Invest in a good lens. As mentioned, a good camera can underperform with a bad lens. Hence it's best to invest in a high-quality lens that also fits what you'll shoot.
- Check if there are available parts and repairs when you purchase. It's hard to find accessories and parts for other cameras, so make sure that the brand you'll choose has a good repair service that's locally available.
Take Your Photography Skills to the Next Level
Whether you're a beginner or a professional, photography is all about having fun. Buying a camera is a huge investment, that's why it's important to make sure that you're using the appropriate type for every situation. If you want to learn more about other camera types, you may want to check out our recommendations below.
10 Best Mirrorless Cameras in the Philippines 2022 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Photographer and Graphic Artist
10 Best Compact Digital Cameras in the Philippines 2022 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Photographer and Graphic Artist
10 Best Vlog Cameras in the Philippines 2022 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Photographer and Graphic Artist
10 Best Instant Cameras in the Philippines 2022 | Buying Guide Reviewed by Photographer and Graphic Artist
How We Chose and Ranked Our Product Recommendations
Our buying guide was carefully researched and crafted by the mybest team of writers and editors, in collaboration with the expert featured in this article. We used the buying guide as a basis for choosing and ranking the product recommendations, and we looked at reviews and ratings from different E-commerce sites like Lazada, Shopee, and more.
Top 5 DSLR Cameras
No. 1: Canon｜EOS-1D X Mark II DSLR
No. 2: Nikon｜D780
No. 3: Canon｜EOS 250D
No. 4: Canon｜EOS 200D Mark II
No. 5: Canon｜EOS 800D
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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