Affordable full-frame cameras are a far cry from the entry-level models of yesteryear. However, for under $2,000, and, in many cases, far less, you can get a full-frame rig that produces professional results without breaking a sweat.
Many people will lead you to believe that you need to spend upward of $2,500 to get great full-frame cameras these days. This isn’t true. You can spend less than $2,000, and in some cases, under $1,000 and can get your hands on affordable full-frame cameras that are capable of producing the goods.
The affordable full-frame cameras we’ve listed here have advanced autofocus systems and superb sensors. Some even have IBIS. On top of these features, all of these cameras are well made too. As a result, they’re more than capable of standing up to the demands of modern photographers. So, if you want a sub $2,000 full-frame camera with tons of features that can help you produce professional quality work, check out the cameras below.
Panasonic Lumix S5 — The king of affordable full-frame cameras
The full-frame Panasonic Lumix S5 gets many things right, including image quality, build quality and weather sealing. The Lumix S5 is a solid performer in all situations and all-weather scenarios, including the rain, blowing dust, and the cold. This camera was my main camera (read my review here) for events, sports and wildlife photography, and it never let me down.
But, the autofocus system, Brett! It’s a Panasonic; how can it be reliable? Trust me; the autofocus is great for photography. I have used it to track motocross riders zooming around a track, birds flying, and I have used it at poorly lit events. The Panasonic Lumix S5 never let me down. There are two card slots, a fully articulating screen, and the battery life is solid. The ergonomics are superb, and the images from the 24-megapixel sensor are stunning. Grab it when it’s on sale for under $1,700. At this price, it’s the best of the bunch when it comes to affordable full-frame cameras.
Canon EOS RP — A small camera that’s big on performance
The Canon EOS RP is a camera that’s often overlooked; however, it’s one of the best affordable full-frame cameras on the market. The biggest selling point is the 26.2-megapixel full-frame sensor, which offers impeccable image quality. On top of this, there’s an excellent EVF, a fully articulating LCD touchscreen and so much more. It’s incredible how much tech Canon fitted into this tiny full-frame camera.
The Canon EOS RPs autofocus performance is outstanding thanks to the 4,779 selectable AF points, which are powered by Canon’s Dual Pixel autofocus. There’s also eye and face detect autofocus to boot. To round things out, the Canon EOS RP is privy to one of the most user-friendly menu systems in the game, and it feels lovely in hand. At under $1,000, the Canon EOS RP is easily one of the best affordable full-frame cameras on the market.
Nikon Z 5 — Pro-grade all the way
When talking about affordable full-frame cameras, it’s impossible to ignore the Nikon Z 5. Unfortunately, most people overlook this camera because of the price; I mean, who would believe that you can get pro-grade image quality from a full-frame camera that costs less than $1,400? Well, you can, and the Z 5 does it without breaking a sweat.
The 24-megapixel Nikon Z 5 is more than good enough for most genres of photography. The camera is rapid and accurate, with 273 selectable focus points. The native ISO goes up to 51,200. You can fire off 4.5 frames per second, and there are five stops of IBIS to play with. There’s a large touch screen, dual card slots, a bright tiltable LCD, USB charging and more. All for under $1,400 (under $1,300 when on sale). If you want a full-frame camera and you don’t want to break the bank, this is a camera you need to take a closer look at.
Tyvm! Also, you can find these used here and there for even less. I’ve been wanting to get a full frame for a while, so these tips are great.
Forget the RP, the Canon EOS R is one of the best full frame cameras you can get for under $1799 used or around $1200 used currently.