Recommended Cameras under $200 in 2025

If you're a beginner in photography or simply looking for a more dedicated device to capture moments, a camera under $200 is a fantastic option. They offer better image quality than smartphones, are easy to carry around, and come with some handy features like Wi-Fi connectivity and scene modes.

With such a small budget, you are unlikely to find a DSLR camera. Look among used compact cameras from trusted brands — the characteristics of such models are quite suitable for beginners.

When selecting a camera under $200, keep in mind factors such as image quality, user-friendliness, and unique features like instant prints, built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capabilities. These cheap cameras are designed to be compact and easy to use, making them perfect for beginners or those who prefer a hassle-free shooting experience.

Type: Compact | Megapixels: 16MP | Lens type: 16x zoom + 28mm wide-angle

The Canon PowerShot SX160 boasts a solid 16x optical zoom, which is pretty impressive for a camera in this price range. It's designed for beginners and casual photographers who want to step up their photography game beyond what their smartphones can offer.

The compact camera offers a variety of modes, including shutter-priority and aperture-priority. Plus, the SX160 can capture 720p HD video with a dedicated movie button. And the large 3.0" LCD screen allows you to view your shots from a wide angle, making it easy to review your footage.

One of the standout features of this camera for 200 dollars is its Intelligent Image Stabilizer, which reduces blur caused by low light and long zoom shooting. And with its high-speed autofocus, you won't miss those precious moments you want to capture.

Type: Compact | Megapixels: 12MP | Lens type: 3.6x Zoom (37mm to 134mm)

The Nikon Coolpix L22 is a budget compact camera under $200 with a respectable 12-megapixel resolution. It's powered by regular AA batteries, which is a convenient feature since they're easy to find. The 3-inch LCD screen is a decent size, and the 3.6x optical zoom provides some versatility.

The Coolpix L22 offers various shooting modes, including a Smart Portrait System, Easy Auto Mode with Scene Auto Selector, and Movie Mode. The Smart Portrait System is a nifty feature that automatically corrects red-eye, detects faces, captures smiles, and even warns you when your subject is about to blink.

This camera for beginners is designed to be simple and fully automated, which means it doesn't offer much control to the user. If you're a serious photographer looking for manual settings and creative options, this camera might not be your best bet.

Type: Compact | Megapixels: 16MP | Lens type: 24mm wide angle

One of the standout features of the Kodak AZ401RD is its 16MP sensor. This means you can expect to capture some really stunning and detailed images. Plus, the image stabilization system ensures that your shots come out clear and sharp, even if you're not the steadiest hand.

The Kodak AZ401RD also has a wide-angle lens, which is great for capturing more of the scenery around you. So, whether you're on a hiking trip or on vacation, you'll be able to snap some impressive shots.

Another advantage of this camera for 200 dollars is its compact and lightweight design. It's perfect for those who are always on the go and don't want to lug around a heavy DSLR. Plus, it fits easily in your pocket, so you'll always have it on hand when you need it.

Type: Compact | Megapixels: 16.2MP | Lens type: 12x zoom

The Samsung WB35F has a sleek and stylish look that will appeal to fashion enthusiasts and photography fans alike. It comes in four different colors, so you can pick one that matches your personal style.

This camera under $200 has a 16 MP sensor, which is pretty decent for a camera in this price range. It can also shoot videos at up to 720p, which is not the highest quality, but it gets the job done.

The WB35F also has a camera mode called Smart Mode that automatically selects the best camera settings based on the scene, so you don't have to worry about adjusting everything manually. And Photo Beam allows you to transfer images from the camera to your smartphone with just a touch.

Type: Waterproof | Megapixels: 16MP | Lens type: 4x zoom

With Kodak PixPro WPZ2 you can capture high-quality photos and even record Full HD videos, which is a nice bonus. This camera is easy to grip and can be used by anyone, regardless of age or experience. It's also compact enough to fit in your pocket, so you can take it with you wherever you go.

One of the great features of this underwater camera for snorkeling is its built-in flash, which allows you to take photos indoors or during the evening, though photo quality may be average.

It also has a stabilizer that helps to minimize blur in your shots, giving you clear and crisp photos. It's also waterproof, making it perfect for capturing your adventures in high definition. And if you like to share your photos and videos, you'll be happy to know that it can connect wirelessly to your smart device for easy uploading and sharing.

Type: Film, Instant | Picture size: 2.4 x 2.4” | Lens type: 2 components, 65.75 mm

The Fujifilm Instax Square SQ1 prints large 2.4x2.4-inch square photos. Loading the film is a breeze, and once you're ready to shoot, just rotate the lens barrel to power it on and select your shooting mode. You can even switch to macro mode for close-up shots.

One of the standout features of this one of the best camera under $200 is its improved flash capabilities. In fact, it has the best auto-exposure out of all the Instax models I've tested. It accurately captures skin tones and clothing hues in both natural and artificial lighting.

Plus, with this selfie camera you can add effects to your photos, like colored frames and filters. And here's a cool feature - you can connect the camera to your phone through the LiPlay app and print your photos onto Instax Mini film.

Type: Film, Instant | Picture size: 2.4 x 1.8” | Lens type: move in or out, 2 components, 60mm

The Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 Neo Classic has a sleek and modern look that will catch your eye. It's not just about looks though, as this camera offers a range of creative modes for those credit card-sized prints.

One of my favorite things about this camera for 200 dollars is its double exposure mode. This allows you to superimpose two different images onto the same picture, adding a unique and creative touch to your photos.

It has a macro function, perfect for capturing those up-close details, and a self-timer for snapping fun selfies. This camera for teenager allows you to customize the image with settings like brightness and contrast, and you can adjust the flash settings to suit the environment. It's a popular choice for beginners because of its affordability and good image quality.

Type: Film, Instant | Picture size: 3.1 x 3.1" | Lens type: Autofocus 2-lens system

The Polaroid Now+ takes the classic instant camera and adds a bunch of fun app-based options to customize your photos. It's perfect for beginners who want to learn how to use analog and film cameras, but it's also a solid choice for advanced photographers who want to experiment with new creative tools.

This camera for kids itself is very intuitive and easy to use, with Apple-like controls and instructions right on the screen.

Thanks to the Polaroid app, you can remotely control features like double exposure and light painting, adding a whole new level of creativity to your instant photography. It's also compatible with a variety of lens filters, allowing you to create unique and interesting artistic effects.

Type: Action | Megapixels: 20MP | Video quality: UHD 4K

The Akaso V50X boasts a good 4K quality, loop recording, and some impressive for a budget-friendly camera features. It comes with two batteries, each with a capacity of 1350mAh. This means you can record up to 90 minutes of footage in 4K on each battery, so you don’t need any third-party camera batteries.

In terms of features, the Akaso V50X offers a decent range of frame rates to record in and delivers a pretty good image quality. I particularly like the time lapse mode, which allows you to capture frames at set intervals to create a video. This action camera under $100 is perfect for sports enthusiasts who want to capture amazing footage of their favorite sport.

The two-inch IPS touchscreen display is easy to use, with a simple navigation menu that prioritizes commonly tweaked settings for convenience. This camera under $200 even has a hands-free mode that responds to voice commands, making it easy to use while engaging in activities like cycling.

As a beginner with limited budget, a compact point-and-shoot camera is your best bet. They're designed to be simple and easy to use, with automatic and semi-automatic modes to take the guesswork out of photography. While they may not match the image quality of a DSLR or mirrorless camera, they are much more portable and perfect for taking on holidays or day trips.

Image quality. Typically, cameras for photography in this price range will have smaller image sensors, but that doesn't mean they can't produce good images, especially under adequate lighting conditions. So, keep an eye out for cameras with 12-16 megapixels, as that will give you decent detail in your photos.

Size and weight. You don't want something too bulky or heavy, as it could make it difficult to carry around with you. Look for a compact and lightweight model that's easy to handle.

Video quality. Even if you're not planning on shooting videos, having a budget video camera with good quality can come in handy. If you're looking for the best digital camera under $200, look for a model that can shoot at least 1080p resolution videos.

Optical zoom. This is the feature that allows you to get closer to your subject without physically moving closer. Look for a camera with an optical zoom of at least 12x or higher. This will help you capture close-ups of objects even from a distance.

Advanced features. Looking for cameras with features like aperture priority and shutter priority, which allow you to experiment with different exposures and depth of field. Some cameras also has a touch screen, which is a nice addition. Plus, you may need Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity to share your photos on your phone or tablet.