Entry-level dSLRs

Think of a dSLR and what is the first thing that comes to your mind? It's expensive? Difficult to use? Bulky? Well, that may have been somewhat true in the past when digital photography has yet to take stage. But these days, camera manufacturers are churning out affordable and easy-to-operate dSLRs to target mainstream consumers. Not only do these snappers offer a wide variety of exposure options, users can also attach different lenses and accessories to suit various shooting occasions. HD video recording-function is also fast becoming a staple in entry-level dSLRs.

However, shutterbugs now have another option besides the five choices below: The Micro Four Thirds system offers interchangeable lens solution, too, and cameras using this standard typically have smaller footprints. Read more about them here.

But if dSLRs are still your cup of tea, stop over at our dSLR buying guide for some tips on choosing one that suits you best.

Click here for a feature comparison table.

	1.	Canon EOS 500D   CNET Asia rating: 7.6 out of 10 The good: Full-HD video-recording feature; fast performance; good image quality; high-resolution LCD. The bad: Autofocus points are small and blink briefly; video clips not as smooth at 20fps. The bottom line: The EOS 500D is a very decent dSLR for first-time users and the inclusion of full HD video-recording function sweetens the deal. Review | See full specs | Rate this
	2.	Nikon D5000   CNET Asia rating: 7.8 out of 10 The good: Very good photo quality; fast; video capture; articulated LCD; built-in wireless flash controller. The bad: Small, dim viewfinder; middling video quality; easy to accidentally change focus points. The bottom line: Though it falls short in its design, the Nikon D5000 delivers a nice feature set, speedy performance, and great photo quality for the money. Review | See full specs | Rate this
	3.	Sony Alpha DSLR-A380   First take Recently, camera makers have been shifting their battleground to the entry-level category. Canon and Nikon are taking the lead with the EOS 500D and D5000, respectively, both of which are capable of recording HD-quality videos. Not to be outdone, Sony recently released three entry-level models to address the needs of different amateurs. The highest-end unit among the trio, the DSLR-A380, has useful features such as a 2.7-inch tilting LCD and a 14.2-megapixel sensor. But can it keep up with the competition? First take | See full specs | Rate this
	4.	Olympus E-620   According to Olympus, the E-620 is currently the world's smallest and lightest dSLR with an onboard image stabilizer system. But what also makes this 12-megapixel camera special is the company's Art Filter function, which applies effects such as Pinhole or Grainy Film to your shots without using a computer. See full specs | Rate this
	5.	Pentax K-x   One of the highlights of the 12-megapixel K-x is the color of the camera body. Pentax broke away from the typical black or silver look for the K-x's camera body, and included red and blue into the lineup. Users in Japan can even opt for color customizations, choosing from various shades for the chassis and handgrip. Also, it utilizes AA-sized batteries for power. Other specifications include a 2.7-inch LCD, 720p-quality video recording, 4.7 frames-per-second burst mode and 11-point autofocus. See full specs | Rate this