Cameras lose value over time, but are still as good as the day they came out.
For pictures of people or everyday life, used cameras take great shots. There are many cheap cameras to choose from every manufacturer.
Where the newer cameras shine are for sports, action, and wildlife. These types of photography need fast autofocus and continuous shooting. Good high ISO performance is important for low-light shooting.
I would avoid any of the “Instant Print Camera for Kids” cameras that print on thermal receipt paper. They have BPA (Bisphenol A) and BPS (Bisphenol S) which are chemical that can mimic estrogen in the body. That is bad for developing children.
Cameras under $100
Cameras under $100 are the perfect entry point into photography. They are great for creativity, because they don’t have the best specs.
For all of these cameras, if you look around, you can find a good deal. Check eBay, Facebook marketplace, Craigslist, flea markets, thrift stores, garage sales, and anywhere else people sell used items.
Cameras under $200
Cameras under $200 Entry level DSLRs made around 2012 are the best value cameras. That was the peak year for DSLR sales.
Now there is an abundance of them on the used market. They are easy to find as complete kits with a lens, battery, and memory card. Some will have a second telephoto kit zoom, which is good for kids sports and lazy wildlife photography.
Cameras under $500
Cameras under $500 include former flagship professional DSLRs.
Cameras under $1,000
Cameras under $1,000 are where it becomes possible to get a kit that includes a 85mm f1.8 lens. That’s perfect for portraits.
Cameras under $1,500
Cameras under $1,500 are where the world of mid-range sports, action, and wildlife kits become accessible.