Best Cheap Digital Cameras Under $50 2021 – Reviews & Buying Guide

Gone are the days when people were willing to compromise on the quality of their photos, and why should they, given all the new and exciting cameras that are available on the market nowadays.

Another common problem with those old cameras was their delayed response time which made it so that the moment had already passed by the time the shutter was fully closed and captured the image.

This can cause you to lose the image altogether. This, coupled with low- quality results, do not make for the best addition to your family look book. So, the apparent solution is getting a new camera but it is a fair bit of investment for some.

However, if you are shopping on a budget, here are some of the best cheap digital cameras under $50. So, whether you are a beginner or want to gift it to your children or even if you just want a good family camera, you’ll find some great choices here.

BEST CHEAP DIGITAL CAMERAS

So, without further ado, let’s get started and you can see what you like! 

Best Choice

Best Choice

For the budget choice, we have the Polaroid ISO48 Waterproof Digital Camera considering the features that it offers for the price point, especially since it is one of the few digital cameras on this list that is waterproof.

Editor's Choice

Editor’s Choice

The Editor’s pick for this selection goes to the Digital Camera for Backpacking since it is both budget-friendly and offers a multitude of features that makes it popular among a wide audience.

Image Product Details   Price
1-Polaroid-IS048 Polaroid ISO48 Waterproof Sharing Digital Camera Weight: 6.4 ounces
Mega Pixels: 16 Megapixels 
LCD: 2.4 inches
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2-Digital-Camera Digital Camera for Backpacking Weight: 5.3 ounces
Mega Pixels: 18 Megapixels
LCD: 2.7 inches
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3-Mega-Pixels-Digital-Camera 30 Mega Pixels Digital Camera Weight: 3.53 ounces
Mega Pixels:  30 Megapixels
LCD: 2.7 inches
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4-Digital-Camera-Compact-Camera 24 Mega Pixels Rechargeable HD Digital Camera Weight: 3.53 ounces
Mega Pixels: 3.53 ounces
LCD: 2.4 inches
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5-Digital-Camera-HD Digital Vlogging Camera for Adults, Kids, Beginners Weight: 8.1 ounces
Mega Pixels: 30 Megapixels
LCD: 2.7 inches
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6-LUCKYCAM-Camera-Camcorder LUCKYCAM Camcorder Digital Camera Weight: 14.5 ounces
Mega Pixels: 16 Megapixels
LCD: 2.7 inches
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7-Polaroid-i20X29-Digital-Camera Polaroid I20X29 Digital Camera Weight: 14.5 ounces
Mega Pixels: 20 Megapixels
LCD: 2.8 inches
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8-Themoemoe-Kids-Camera Themoemoe Digital Kids Camera   Weight: 14.5 ounces
Mega Pixels: 8 Megapixels
LCD: 2.4 inches
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9-Vivitar-5 Vivitar 5.1 MP Digital Camera Weight: 14.5 ounces
Mega Pixels:  5.1 Megapixels
LCD: 1.4 inches
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10-Mini-Digital-Camera Vmotal Mini Digital Camera Weight: 14.5 ounces
Mega Pixels:  12 Megapixels
LCD: 2.8 inches
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Best Cheap Digital Cameras under $50 2021

1. Polaroid IS048 – best cheap digital cameras under $50

Best Cheap Digital Cameras Under $50

Hot off of the Editor’s Pick for this list, we have the Polaroid ISO48 Digital Camera. As far as the classic point and shoot camera goes, it doesn’t really get better than this. With an image resolution of sixteen megapixels and HD quality video, it is really up there as far as cheap digital cameras are concerned.

As mentioned before, the simple point and shoot operation make it so anybody can use this camera, you can even ask your children to capture a few photos here and there. It really is as easy as clicking a button, and you have your picture!

Moving on, there is a 2.4-inch LCD screen which gives you a good preview of your captured images in addition to serving as a medium where you can change the various settings of the camera and really understand what’s going on with the different operations of the camera.

Also, here’s the kicker, this digital camera is also waterproof for up to ten feet! This means that you can use the camera in most standard pools to create some underwater movie magic instead of having to worry about getting water on the camera when you’re watching your kids frolic about in the water!

Make your next trip to the beach even more exciting by capturing all that action, and let’s not forget that golden hour photography. All you have to do is click away and let the camera do its job.

In case you are worried about it getting damaged, there is a protective covering on top to prevent it from sustaining any scratches or bumps so feel free to let your kids have a go at it too because it’s not going anywhere!

Pros

  • Great for beginners and novice photographers especially kids
  • Two Triple-A Batteries included
  • Protective cover on the outside to prevent damage or marks
  • High-resolution video and image quality
  • Can be immersed in water up to 10 feet
  • Great for experimenting with underwater photography

Cons

  • Micro-SD card for storage has to be bought separately
  • Some complaints regarding the clarity of the user manual

2. Digital Camera 2.7 Inch HD Camera 

Best Cheap Digital Cameras Under $50

For those of you who are slightly more into fancy tech, this one is definitely for you. We bring you the Digital Camera designed to cater to so much more than just regular photography. For starters, it is an excellent eighteen megapixels in terms of image resolution, complemented further by the HD video and CMOS sensor.

The resulting images will be in JPEG, so you don’t have to worry much about storage space either. Next up is the 2.7-inch LCD screen that serves as a preview screen and a generous mode to manipulate the various settings of the camera.

And, get this, 8X digital zoom capabilities and that too with a proper zoom lens. With a minimum aperture of 3.0, it is perfect for all your day to day pictures and especially portraits. Now, get those beautiful photos where the background is slightly blurred, and all the focus is on your subject all on your own digital camera!

The great thing about this camera is that it is quite lightweight so you can pretty much take it everywhere you go making it all the more convenient. It is especially great for beginners and entry-level photographers and kids to give them a fair idea of how to take good pictures, and the results will only encourage them further so you can’t go wrong here!  

As for the battery, it is a heavy-duty lithium-ion battery with high charge retaining capacity. Not only that, that also means it takes limited charging time. As for the SD cardholder, it has a maximum capacity of 32 GBs, so you’re good to go in terms of storage space.

For shooting in low light, there is a flash in place as well so you can light up your surroundings when taking pictures in the dark or at night. You do not have to be limited when it comes to this camera; the world is your oyster, simply click away!

Pros

  • Internal microphone and speakers for recording and playing videos
  • High capacity lithium capacity takes minimal charge time
  • Increased storage space up to 32 GB
  • Excellent zoom lens with a good aperture range
  • Large display screen
  • Perfect for entry-level and novice photographers

Cons

  • Charging adapter is not included
  • It is not waterproof

3. 30 Mega Pixels Digital Camera 2.7 Inch HD Camera

Best Cheap Digital Cameras Under $50

Since we’re batting a thousand so far, we would like to keep the streak going with this gorgeous digital camera with a whopping thirty megapixels to offer in terms of image resolution. Video resolution is not far behind either with 1080p quality which will enhance the quality of your photos and videos by a long shot.

It is quite compact and lightweight in size; however, it is not to be taken lightly. Armed with 8X digital zoom, you can capture images from quite a distance as well, so don’t worry about missing those great shots just because you are far away.

Besides, there are a bunch of features in the camera that you can play around with to get the best photos. Also, there is an anti-shake feature that will give you those steady and clear pictures even if you have a slightly unsteady hand.

This camera is also marketed as a vlogging camera, and with a built-in microphone and speaker, it is excellent for recording videos while the anti-shake gives you a steady video even when you are on the move so you can vlog to your heart’s content.

Worried about shooting in low light? Well, here’s where the flash is coming to light up your world while you are trying to take pictures in the dark. Shooting in the dark is a real challenge but this definitely makes it a lot easier.

Additionally, it has a lithium battery that makes for long-lasting battery life and minimal charging time. As for the memory, it has the capacity of an SD card up to 128 GBs. It does come with a USB cable so charging it directly shouldn’t be a problem either.

Pros

  • Ideal for beginners
  • Excellent battery life and ample storage availability
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Works great as a vlogging camera too
  • Inbuilt flash for low light photography

Cons

  • SD card is not included
  • The camera is not waterproof   

4. 24 MP Digital Cameras Mini Camera 2.4 inch LCD Screen

best cheap digital cameras under $50

Next up, we have yet another crowd favorite coupled with a sleek design that will make you look all kinds of cool when you’re taking pictures! It is also quite compact and lightweight so you can simply pop it in your pocket and have it ready to go whenever you need it.

With a generous twenty-four megapixels to offers in terms of image resolution and a 1080p in terms of video resolution, it doesn’t get better than this. You can use it for pictures and videos on the go, and if you are a vlogger then you can make full use of all these amenities to record the most killer videos and vlogs!

What’s great about this camera is that the lens supports macro photography as well, so you get greater depth of field and high-quality images even for smaller objects. It supports storage up to 32 GB. Besides, the lithium-ion battery ensures minimal charging and a long-lasting battery as well.

The buttons and different settings on the camera are quite easy to get the hang of, and you will find yourself comfortable with it in no time. Since the user interface is so friendly, it is excellent for beginners and entry-level photographers, even kids.

There is the self-timer, of course, to take those coveted family photos along with an anti-shake setting so you can take the most high-resolution pictures without having to worry about camera blur or unsteady hands.

For shooting in darker or low light conditions, there is the flash, of course, to assist you in that regard.

Pros

  • Affordable camera for beginners and novice photographers
  • Supports 32 GB SD card, so storage space is more than enough
  • High-resolution image and video quality
  • Easy to understand user interface
  • Compact and lightweight; can be taken anywhere
  • Long-lasting lithium-ion battery

Cons

  • It is not waterproof
  • Does not include a memory card

5. Digital Camera HD 1080P Vlogging Camera 30 MP Mini Camera

best cheap digital cameras under $50

Approaching the middle of our list, we have no intention of slowing down just yet. So, we give you this Digital Vlogging Camera that is ideal for all age groups and all sorts of users whether they are adults, entry-level photographers, and it serves as a great present for kids as well considering the price point.

It supports thirty megapixels in terms of image resolution, which is quite high up there, so much more than what most phones offer at any rate. While the video definition is no less than 1080p so it really is HD all the way when it comes to this camera.

With such strong credentials at the helm, anybody can take good pictures with this camera. Those beautiful shots are only a few clicks away, no matter where you are starting out. The rechargeable lithium-ion battery makes for excellent charging time and battery life.

Storage space isn’t a problem either because the camera supports up to 128 GB worth of storage, although the SD card does have to be bought separately. It has three different shooting functions to cater to all sorts of sceneries and pictures.

Additionally, the built-in anti mechanism will ensure that your pictures are stable and have that beautiful straight and clear lines. And then there is the flash as well which makes low light photography so much easier making it an overall excellent fit!

Pros

  • Excellent for entry-level photographers with a friendly user interface
  • Makes for a great gift for teenagers
  • A long-lasting battery and ample storage compatibility
  • Built-in flash for shooting in low-light conditions
  • Multiple shooting functions for the best result
  • Could use better zoom capabilities
  • SD card to be bought separately

Cons

  • None

6. LUCKYCAM Camera Camcorder Digital Video Camera

best cheap digital cameras under $50

So, here we are, folks, halfway there but don’t think its all downhill from here because we’re only just getting started and thus comes in the LuckyCam Digital Camera. This camera is all set to bring back all the nostalgia attached to camcorders. As long you slide your hand into that strap, you know you mean business.

So, let’s talk numbers, it has a pretty standard image resolution up to sixteen megapixels which is better than most phones nowadays anyway. As for the video resolution, you do not get anything less than 1080p so your videos will pretty much be HD all the way.

It supports up to 32 GBs worth of storage space so you can shoot to your heart’s content. With the easy screen rotation, you can also get all those angles and make the most of the surrounding scenery.

The camcorder has multiple shooting settings and functions while the long-lasting lithium-ion ensures extended battery life with a charging time of a mere two hours for a full charge. The SD card does have to be bought separately. However, it makes for a great present for any kind of event or anyone for that matter.

Pros

  • Long lifespan of the battery and quick charging
  • Supports 32GB worth of storage
  • Multiple features and shooting functions
  • Screen rotation of up to 270 degrees

Cons

  • Does not have night vision
  • SD card is not included

7. Polaroid i20X29 Digital Camera

best cheap digital cameras under $50

This Polaroid I20X29 with its bright red sleek design makes for a perfect Valentine’s day present for your significant other or even a great Christmas present for your kids. In any case, it is quite the piece of work with high picture resolution, up to twenty megapixels to be exact.

Along with that, it also has a 1080p video definition, and here’s the kicker, a 10x zoom lens, and a zoom feature that will make it so much easier to shoot faraway objects. Besides that, it has quite a large display as well that will make it easier to preview your pictures and videos and play around with the settings as well.

If you are worried about shooting in low light, you can rest assured because it has a built-in flash to help with this particular dilemma so shoot away without any worries with the Polaroid I20X29 camera!

Pros

  • High-resolution pictures and videos
  • Large LCD screen for previewing images
  • Compact and sleek design
  • Built-in flash for low light photography

Cons

  • It is not waterproof
  • Micro SD card needs to be bought separately

8. Themoemoe Kids Camera, Camera for Kids

best cheap digital cameras under $50

If you are looking for a camera for your kids, then Themoemoe is the one for you, and the sole reason we’ve included it in this list is that it is quite popular among children because of its bright blue color and simple design, and parents all around are quite satisfied with it as well!

This digital camera offers eight megapixels in terms of image quality and HD video, which is quite reasonable for a kid’s camera and the price point. It does have two camera modes, both front, and rear so your kids can take as many selfies as they desire!

It is designed to be eco-friendly and has been manufactured from non-toxic materials, so it is more than suitable for your kids. Additionally, there are a bunch of shooting selections to choose from as well as zoom capabilities as well so your children will really enjoy this camera!

Pros

  • 16GB memory card is included
  • Good video resolution
  • Lightweight and sleek design
  • Easy to handle and is durable
  • Multiple shooting settings and a zoom lens

Cons

  • Mainly designed for kids only
  • It is not waterproof

9. Vivitar 5.1MP Digital Camera – Color and Style May Vary

Vivitar 5.1MP Digital Camera

Next up we have the Vivitar digital camera, simple and sleek, and exactly what it seems like at face value. With an image resolution of 5.1 megapixels, it does get by quite nicely for day to day photography. It also has video capabilities.

Although exact storage capacity isn’t clear, it can hold up to a hundred images at a time. Besides, it has several useful features such as face detection to get those clear photos every time. The USB cable is included for directly charging the camera along with a wrist strap which makes it easy to carry around anywhere you go.

Pros

  • Lightweight and portable
  • Good for shooting short video clips
  • Has face detection and similar features
  • Comes with a wrist strap and USB cable

Cons

  • Image and video resolution could be better
  • Exact storage space is not clarified 

10. Mini Digital Camera – Vmotal 2.8 inch LCD HD Digital Camera 

Approaching the end of our list, we would like to close off strong, so we bring to you the Vmotal Mini Digital Camera, do not be fooled by the “mini” of it all because it definitely packs a punch.

With a 2.8 LCD screen, the display is larger than most digital cameras on this list. Other than that, you get a bunch of interesting features such as face detection, self-timer, panorama shot, and so much more.

With a 12-megapixel image resolution and 720p video resolution, it does have some decent numbers to show, so you will be satisfied with the quality of your pictures and videos.

Pros

  • Rechargeable battery and long-lasting battery lift
  • Good image and video resolution
  • Built-in flash and various other features
  • Compact and lightweight – can be taken anywhere

Cons

  • Memory card is not included with the camera
  • It is not waterproof   

BUYER’S GUIDE – Best Cheap Digital Cameras Under $50

So, let us guess, you have decided to invest in a brand-new digital camera. First off, an excellent choice if we may say so ourselves. Whether you are new to photography and want to try out your hand on a smaller camera or you are just looking for a family camera to capture all those precious moments, we’ve got your back. 

Nowadays the biggest problem with buying new tech such as a digital camera is finding the right product with a reasonable price tag along with it. Even though there are hundreds of options out there in the market, not all of them will be the right fit. So, that is where we come in. 

Looking for a budget-friendly digital camera that will get the job done, right? We have some of the best cheap digital cameras under $50 right here. However, before you start looking at cameras, you need to decide what you want exactly.

Only then will you be able to decide if a particular camera is the right fit for you or not. So, what should you be looking at exactly? We have the answer right here! 

Check the Resolution 

Alright, so a good indicator to start with is the number of megapixels that a camera offers. As they say, numbers don’t lie so these can give you a fair idea of the kind of image and video resolution a particular camera offers. 

However, megapixels can only go so far when it comes to predicting the performance of a particular camera. Don’t be fooled into thinking you can’t settle for anything less than 30 megapixels. 

Unless you’re taking photos that have to be blown up for a billboard or something, you should be good to go with as many as six megapixels. You can get some great printouts as well without experiencing a drop in quality.

As for the video quality, most digital camera record videos in 720p or as high as 1080p so all your video content will definitely be in high definition.  

Even if you are not planning on getting the pictures printed out, you can still count on the quality to hold up all the same if not better in digital form. 

Another important consideration is the storage space. You need to keep in mind that the more megapixels your pictures consist of, the more storage space they will occupy so for more lowkey use you will be better off with a low megapixel count especially if you are just starting out or experimenting.

We all know how those family photos can add up so you will be able to save all of them easily with lower megapixels. 

What Features Do the best cheap digital cameras under $50 have?

Moving on, let’s talk about features. These may include face detection, self-timer, screen rotation, smile detection, and similar features. Besides these, you can also look out for the LCD screen. Do you prefer a larger screen display or can you make do with a smaller one?

What is the user interface like? Is it easy to get the hang of? Does it have any different shooting functions, and is it versatile in terms of usage. These are some of the questions you need to ask yourself when it comes to features. 

Additionally, you can look at the battery and storage support. Cameras can support SD cards ranging from 32 GBs anywhere up to 128 GBs. However, do keep in mind that these SD cards are sold separately, but you can definitely check for compatibility depending on the amount of storage you think you need. 

Then there is the battery life to consider. Most digital cameras come with a standard lithium-ion battery with quick charging time and long battery life. However, there are a few exceptions where the battery only lasts between an hour or two, so you need to look out for that. 

Does It Fit the Budget? 

So, just because you are buying a digital camera does not mean you have to break the bank to do it. Especially if you are looking for something entry-level or a present for your kids, for instance, you do not want to buy something with, particularly high stakes.

The good news is that you can actually find some excellent digital cameras under $50, but you do have to look around and make sure you aren’t getting scammed. Take your time and do not go for the fancy cameras right off the bat without those hefty price tags because you can get more of the same for a lower price point too. 

Another thing to remember is that the best product doesn’t always have to be the one with the steepest price tag. It is only a matter of taking your time before jumping headfirst into a purchase, and you will find the right product.

What Do I Need It For? 

As mentioned above, your camera of choice depends on what you are going to use it for. Is it going to serve as a camera for your whole family, is it a present for your kids, or are you using it as an entry-level camera for some photography of your own? 

This will help you decide how much you need to spend on it and how heavy-duty it needs to be. As for the other features, you can also decide whether the investment is worth it or if you can do without them, so make sure this particular question is clear with you. 

Lens Range 

Last but not least, let’s talk about the lens range or the zoom feature. If you want to take your photography a step up and focus on faraway shots and macro photography, you will need a lens to match. 

So, be sure to check out the specifics of the lens as well, such as aperture, shutter speed – if available, and zoom capabilities. Also, check whether it is an actual zoom lens or in-built zoom feature because there is a difference and it will likely show up in your pictures as well.

Best Cheap Digital Cameras under $50 FAQs

Now there is no one right answer to this question. The best digital camera is one that is the best for you in particular, so it really all depends on your needs and preferences. However, we can point you in the right direction. You can check out some of the best cheap digital cameras for under $50

If you are looking for a broader range of cameras, then a good place to start would be Canon, Nikon, Sony, and Kodak. Given that these names have been around for a long time, it is definitely the right place to look if you want the best that the market has to offer. 

In short, yes, a digital camera, and an affordable one at that is quite the ideal step if you are just stepping into the realm of photography. Here we are talking about the camcorder and point and shoot digital cameras that are found in most households. 

Compared to heavy-duty DSLRs, most digital cameras have a pretty easy user interface, so they are easier for beginners. Also, it is a good investment as it gives you a fair idea of where you stand with your photography skills and how you can take them further. 

Before buying the best cheap digital cameras under $50, you can check out a detailed buyer’s guide on more of the same. There are a bunch of factors to consider, for instance, frequency of usage, what you will be using it for, the image/video quality. 

Especially if you are buying it for a child or a teenager, you can pick and choose which features you’d like the camera to have so done the research beforehand is important. the main factor is that you’ll want the camera to be durable above everything, so it does not break easily. 

So, there is really no cap to how much a digital camera can cost. It can go anywhere from $30 to hundreds of dollars for a single camera. Of course, there is a difference in the quality and features, but that is beside the point.

You just need to pinpoint what you are looking for in particular and then go from there. It is a myth that you cannot get a good digital camera at a lower price so don’t be discouraged and you will find what you are looking for. 

This is rather an age-old debate by now, but we doubt it’s getting settled any time soon much like the Apple vs. Android trope. The bottom line is that you just have to look at the features and compare them in detail and then settle on the one that speaks to you. 

Besides Canon and Nikon, there are also a bunch of great brands out there such as Sony, and Kodak to name a couple. So, perhaps your perfect pick is outside this box altogether. The only real way to know is to compare and contrast with regards to your own preferences.  

This is another great question as people are debating every day whether to invest in a good camera or the latest phone to have an all-inclusive device for taking pictures. However, it is important to remember that there are digital cameras out there whose quality cannot be matched by phones just yet.

Yes, phones do work rather well, but if you are thinking of taking up photography as a serious profession, it would be best to invest in a proper digital camera and related equipment to make the most of your skills.

Yes, digital cameras serve really well as vlogging cameras, particularly because they are lightweight and compact so they can be taken along anywhere and everywhere. In this way, you can whip it out whenever and take videos at any time. 

Also, digital cameras offer great video resolution, no less than 720p or 1080p so video definition will always be on point, and that’s one less thing to worry about. Besides, the stabilization features will ensure that the video is steady even while you are on the move to give you the best result. 

There is really no limit to the kind of pictures you can take with a digital camera whether you want to take pictures for your family albums at home, scenic photography, portrait photography, sports photography, and so much more. 

As long as you are familiar with the settings, getting the hang of all these different modes of photography shouldn’t be a problem. For people worried about shooting in low light, there is typically a built-in flash feature, shutter speed, and aperture settings that will make this a whole lot easier as well. 

If you know for a fact that the receiver is an aspiring photographer, then there can’t really be a better present, especially if they don’t own a digital camera already. It would make the whole thing quite official and is sure to bring a smile to their face. 

Similarly, for kids, digital cameras make for great presents by encouraging a healthy hobby, and nowadays you can find a lot of cameras designed specifically for kids as well.  

The first base to find a good digital camera would be online. For instance, look up a few cameras on Amazon, you can also filter by type and price range to narrow down your options and get a fair idea of what’s out there. Then you can order it online or buy it in person from a retailer, that is up to you!

Conclusion

So, with all these Best Cheap Digital Cameras Under $50 now available for the taking, all you have to do is choose one and click away at making memories that will last a lifetime and no less! Never compromise on stuff such as this because you and your loved ones deserve the very best!

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