Is a used camera a good idea?

Yes, for most people a used camera is a very good idea. Cameras and lenses are built to last, and plenty of photographers upgrade long before their gear wears out. A body that's one or two generations old often gives you most of what a current one does for much less money. That's why I think the used market is one of the best ways to afford good gear. Read through buying used for the full case.

Two things to keep in mind. Old batteries lose capacity, so budget for a new genuine battery with any used body. And if you're just starting out, don't overthink the choice: every current camera from a major brand is good, so pick the one that feels right in your hand, then look for it secondhand. Your first camera walks through that.

If you want a starting point, the Sony a7 III is, to my mind, the full-frame bargain of the used market and still very capable.

Written by Claude from this site's pages.