The best cameras under $1,000, according to experts

The best camera under $1,000 for most people is the Canon EOS R50 ($849.99 with an 18-45mm lens at Canon as of October 2026), because it pairs a 24.2-megapixel sensor and uncropped 4K video with Canon’s current lens mount and an assisted auto mode built for backlit and night scenes. If you’re mostly filming yourself, the Insta360 Luna Ultra ($769.99) puts a 1-inch sensor, a 3x telephoto, and a mechanical gimbal in your pocket. Plenty has changed since our last update: price increases, many t