14 Pro Cameras Under $1,000 [April, 2024]

There are camera bodies that are perfect for professional work and other’s that would be an enthusiasts dream.

Most of these cameras need SD cards with high sustained write speeds for best performance. A V30 or V60 card might be needed.

• Most Expensive: Nikon D4S ($6,499)
• Cheapest: Olympus PEN-F Digital ($1,199)
• Oldest: Nikon Df (2013)
• Newest: Canon R8 (2023)

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Photography & Hybrid

Some more expensive Leica cameras don’t have video.

Pentax K-1

This is Pentax’s first full frame DSLR. That fact alone will keep the price elevated compared to Canon and Nikon.

As all previous models used APS-C sensors, modern lens selection is not good. That’s not a problem, as the camera is compatible with AF lenses that were designed for 35mm film cameras.

Make sure to know what lenses you’ll be interested in, how much they will cost, and if they are available.

• Pentax DSLR Manual Downloads (Ricoh owns the Pentax camera brand.)

Panasonic S1

This is the least expensive Panasonic full frame camera. It uses the L-mount, which also includes Leica, Sigma, Samyang, and Astrodesign. That’s beneficial to the lens ecosystem.

• Panasonic DC-S1 Product Guide

Canon 5DS / Canon 5DS R

The R variant doesn’t have a low pass filter.

These are the only high-resolution models at this price range. I’d recommend using L lenses to make the most of the sensor.

Options for higher resolution involve multi-shot on a mirrorless or moving up to medium format.

• Canon 5DS Support Page

Canon 5D Mark IV

Last in the 5D line. Unfortunately Magic Lantern is not compatible with the camera.

With so many, it will remain a popular camera for many years to come. They are going to be extremely popular models for people that want to continue to shoot with a DSLR.

• Canon 5D Mark IV Support Page

Nikon 4DS

The only sports, action, and wildlife camera. A Nikon 200-500mm f/5.6 VR ED can be found for less than $800.

• Nikon 4DS Product Page
• Nikon 4DS Download Center - Manual, Firmware, Software

Leica T (typ 701)

Make sure to check lens prices.

Leica TL

Make sure to check lens prices.

Videography and Cinematography

Panasonic G5H II

Pay special attention to the memory cards used. The high bitrate video the camera can capture requires cards with a high sustained write speed.

• Product Guide DC-GH5M2

Blackmagic Design Pocket 4k

It’s a cinema camera. It’s small and comes in Canon EF or MFT mounts.

• Blackmagic Design Pocket 4k Product Page

Enthusiast / Collectible

Olympus PEN-F Digital

A system highlight for fans of Olympus. This is a take on the analog PEN-F, with controls that mimic the film shooting experience.

These carry a large premium and can be difficult to find.

• Olympus PEN-F Digital Product Support Page

Nikon Df

It has vintage styling and can use as well as meter correctly with non-Ai lenses. These are the oldest F-mount lenses that use prongs to relay the lens aperture to the camera.

If you don’t understand the appeal behind that, this is likely not the camera for you. Better price to performance can be had from a hybrid camera.

• Nikon Df Product Page