If you have a large enough budget, the best DSLR and DIL cameras in the $750 price range can give you a powerful model with great speed and image quality. All of the cameras I've listed in this price range are advanced models that offer interchangeable lenses.
The best DSLR and DIL cameras I've listed here include the cost of the camera body only. Accessories for these cameras will cost extra, such as lenses and external flashes. Here are the best DSLR and DIL cameras for under $750, listed alphabetically.
And, if you want some help in finding the best DSLR camera, click the link and read our DSLR camera buying guide.
1. Canon EOS Rebel T2i DSLR
Canon
Canon's highly popular and long-running Rebel series of DSLR cameras is continuing with the EOS Rebel T2i. The Rebel T2i, which made my list of the best cameras for 2010, offers nice versatility for an entry-level DSLR model, making it one of the best beginner DSLRs.
It can shoot at 18 megapixels of resolution with still photos and at full 1080p with HD video. If you have a CEC compatible HDTV, you even can connect the award-winning Rebel T2i to your TV via an HDMI cable, and then control the camera with your TV remote.
2. Canon EOS Rebel T3 DSLR
Canon
Those looking for an affordable, beginner-level DSLR camera had to appreciate the news from earlier this year, when Canon announced plans for the EOS Rebel T3.
You won't find a lot of advanced features in the EOS T3 -- at least when compared to other DSLR models. The Rebel T3 includes 12.2 megapixels of resolution with a CMOS image sensor, a 2.7-inch LCD, live view shooting, and HD video capabilities.
3. Canon EOS Rebel XSi DSLR
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Canon's EOS Rebel XSi contains plenty of features to like for the photographer looking for a first DSLR. Canon has included a nice mixture of automatic shooting settings and manual control settings, helping intermediate photographers learn more about photography. With 12.2 megapixels of resolution, the EOS Rebel XSi can create high-quality photographs for large prints. The continuous shooting mode in the Rebel XSi is especially impressive, shooting at 3.5 frames per second up to 53 full-resolution JPEG images. Canon offers the EOS Rebel XSi in two colors, black and silver, making it different from most DSLRs. Even the LCD with the Rebel XSi is impressive, measuring 3.0 inches diagonally and offering a viewing angle up to 170 degrees.
4. Nikon D3100 DSLR
Nikon
For those seeking a good transitional camera as they advance from a point and shoot camera to a more advanced model, such as a DSLR, Nikon is now offering the D3100 DSLR model. The D3100, which is a CES Innovations honoree and which made my list of the best cameras for 2010, includes on-screen help guides for giving photographers more opportunities for learning how to use their cameras.
5. Nikon D5000 DSLR
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The D5000 from Nikon burst upon the scene upon its mid-2009 release, receiving praise from many different reviewers. The D5000 offers 12.3 megapixels of resolution, which is a good amount of resolution for an intermediate-level DSLR camera. With its mixture of scene modes and manual control settings, the D5000 will work well for intermediate photographers looking to learn more about photography. You can purchase an optional geotagging unit, allowing you to include information about where you shot each photo.
Finally, the Nikon D5000, which won a 2009 DIWA Award and made my best cameras of 2009 list, includes a 2.7-inch LCD that can be rotated. Despite being a slightly older DSLR model, the D5000 remains a very strong camera.
6. Nikon D5100 DSLR
Nikon
The Nikon D5100 will carry 16.2 megapixels of resolution and record in full HD video. The D5100 is a small and neat camera, which fits easily into the hand. It feels substantial, but weighs less than its predecessor (as it has a plastic body). The camera also benefits from the addition of an articulated LCD screen with a side hinge.
Replacing the D5000, the D5100 sits neatly in between the entry-level D3100 and the high-end D7000. The camera is clearly aimed at attracting enthusiasts who have outgrown their basic entry-level DSLRs, and it will be in close competition with Canon's T3i.
7. Olympus PEN E-P1 DIL
Olympus
One of the latest cameras from Olympus gives a whole new meaning to an "all-in-one" camera. Olympus has given its PEN E-P1 digital camera optics similar to an SLR camera, a video mode, and an audio mode. However, the E-P1 has a mirror-less design, making it a DIL camera.
The award-winning E-P1 includes 12.3 megapixels of resolution, along with the ability to use interchangeable lenses. Finally, the E-P1 includes a 3-inch LCD.
8. Olympus PEN E-PL3 DIL
Olympus
The Olympus PEN E-PL3 digital interchangeable lens camera attempts to bring advanced photography options into a camera body more similar to a point and shoot model.
The E-PL3, which sometimes is called the PEN Lite, includes a tiltable 3-inch LCD, which is handy for shooting odd-angle photos. It offers 12.3 megapixels of resolution with a CMOS image sensor, and it can shoot at up to five frames per second. The PEN Lite will be available in a variety of body colors, depending on where it's sold in the world.
9. Sony Alpha NEX-5 DIL
Sony
Small and lightweight DSLR-like cameras continue to appear from more manufacturers, including the powerful Alpha NEX-5 from Sony. Technically, the NEX-5's mirror-less design means it's not a DSLR camera. Most similar cameras are called DIL or EVIL cameras.
The NEX-5 measures 4.38 by 2.38 by 1.56 inches, but it is less than 1 inch in thickness without the lens mount and handgrip. It weighs only 10.1 ounces with both the battery and memory card installed. The mirrorless design of the NEX-5 allows for such a thin and small DIL camera.
10. Sony Alpha SLT-A55V DSLR
Sony
Extremely fast autofocus for both still images and movies highlights the Sony Alpha SLT-A55V "hybrid DSLR" camera, which is among the best entry-level DSLR cameras you'll find. The award-winning A55V (sometimes called the a55) includes a new technology Sony calls "translucent mirror technology" that allows both the image sensor and the autofocus sensor to receive the light at the same time, improving speed. The a55's interior mirror does not "flip up," as in a traditional DSLR mirror. This technique means the a55 must use an EVF.
The A55V can shoot at 16.2 megapixels with a large CMOS image sensor, which results in great image quality. The A55V's 3.0-inch LCD can tilt away from the camera, which is handy.
11. Pentax K-x DSLR
Pentax
Pentax hopes that it has successfully found a new niche with its entry-level K-x DSLR camera. The award-winning K-x offers 12.4 megapixels of resolution, a 2.7-inch LCD, and HD video capabilities.
For a DSLR, the fact that the K-x runs from four AA batteries is unique, as is having the DSLR camera body available in multiple colors, such as chocolate, beige, olive green, light green, pink, purple, blue, orange, red, black, and white. All of these factors make the K-r one of the best DSLR cameras for beginners around.
