$2000 is the sweet spot when looking for an intermediate camera body. These cameras usually borrow features from more expensive models making it a viable option if you want to step into the professional industry.
Today, we are listing the best cameras under $2000 in 2023. Buying one would, of course, depend on your chosen system. However, if you are not brand loyal, then this list could provide you an insight on which camera to choose.
Let's get started.
1. Nikon Z6 II
The Nikon Z6 II is one of the best cameras you could get today. It retails for a little under $2000 and features a 24.5-megapixel full-frame BSI CMOS sensor.
The Z6 II has a very impressive autofocus performance and burst speed. It is also a capable video camera since it has 4K recording capabilities.
This camera has great ergonomics and is not that heavy to hold. The Z6 II also features buttons that are easy to access and the camera's layout is well-thought-out.
Check out this camera if you want to be within the Nikon camera system - a trusted system that will not fail you anytime soon.
2. Sony A7 III
Sony has been a mainstay in the mirrorless camera market today. The Sony A7 IV is already here yet the Sony A7 III is still a very capable full-frame camera.
The Sony A7 III retails for under $1800. For that price, you are getting a 24 megapixel full frame sensor with one of the best autofocus system today. The 693-point hybrid focus system is lightning fast when paired with a native Sony lens.
This camera is also capable of shooting 4K videos albeit leave the video shooting to the Sony A7S III instead. This camera is better suited for photographers.
Moreover, the A7 III has a 5-axis in-body stabilization, weather sealing, Wi-Fi, and a touchscreen LCD.
Sure, the A7 IV is currently the latest one from Sony. But that does not mean you should sleep on the A7 III - it is still a beast.
3. Fujifilm X-T4
The Fujifilm X-T4 is one of the best APS-C cameras available under $2000. It currently sells for around $1,700 - which is below our intended budget. However, that does not mean that it falls short when it comes to its features.
This crop sensor camera uses a 26-megapixel X-Trans CMOS sensor. If you are not familiar with the Fuji system, the X-Trans sensors are highly-regarded due to their colors. The X-Trans sensors produces images that look like they are from the film era.
The X-T4 has a 5-axis image stabilization and it uses a 425-point hybrid AF system alongside that. This camera can also shoot 4K videos at 60 fps.
So why should you go for the Fujifilm X-T4 if there are full-frame options?
The main reason why you should consider the Fujifilm X-T4 is if you love the image quality and the colors that it produces. There are film simulations available in-camera that is hard to replicate on other brands. You might get close, but it will not feel natural.
Other than that, Fujifilm lenses are more affordable compared to full-frame lenses from other brands. Explore the used market and you will also find good deals.
4. Canon EOS R7
The Canon EOS R7 is one of the latest cameras from Canon. Clocking in at around $1,500, it is the company's response to the growing competitive APS-C camera market. It is not a slouch either.
This camera has a 32.5-megapixel APS-C CMOS sensor with a Dual-Pixel CMOS AF II. It can take photos up to 30 fps through its electronic shutter and 15 fps through the mechanical shutter function.
Video-wise, it can take 4K60 10-bit videos with C-Log 3 and HDR-PQ. It also has in-body 5-axis stabilization so shooting handheld is not a problem.
If you want to know more about the Canon EOS R7, check our full review here.
5. Panasonic Lumix S5
The Panasonic Lumix S5 is a powerful camera with a full-frame CMOS sensor. It features 225 autofocus points for a snappy AF experience.
This camera is well-rounded since its features are centered for both photographers and videographers. Photographers would love the 96-megapixel High-Res mode and the 5-axis in-body stabilization plus the ISO performance
Panasonic perfected the recipe of a video camera when it came out with the GH4 and GH5. Now, the Lumix S5 borrows the great features such as UHD 4K60 10-bit recording. It also supports V-Log, HDR, and dual-native ISO. The free-angle touch screen is also perfect for vlogs and low angle footage.
It might not be mainstream, but the Panasonic Lumix S5 is worth getting.
6. Fujifilm X-Pro 3
The Fujifilm X-Pro 3 leans more towards street photographers but that does not mean that it won't work on other genres. This camera features a 26-megapixel APS-C X-Trans sensor and like the X-T4, the colors are phenomenal. The 425-point AF system also helps in nailing the shot from the start.
It also has a hybrid optical viewfinder and a 3-inch tilting screen that can be tucked away when not in use. ISO range is 160-12800 and is more than enough for regular use.
As mentioned earlier, this camera is meant for photographers. But if you need to take videos, it has a 4K 30fps UHD recording capability. It is not the best when it comes to video recording, but it is better than nothing.
The Fujifilm X-Pro 3 is available for $1,999.
Wrapping Up
That is it for the best cameras under $2000 in 2023. Some of these cameras are way under 2K but it will definitely serve you well and last a long time.
Updated: March 2023