Our pick for the best Entry-Level Camera is the Sony A560. This is a similar situation to the Intermediate range where the Sony wins a few categories but it is a very strong second in many other categories. It provides 14 megapixel resolution; it has Full HD video, 24 fps capability and the option for an external microphone; it has the highest burst capability at 7 fps; and, it provides good picture quality and good low-light capability.
The Canon 550D is a best seller and it is shown in this category and the Intermediate category. Even against this slightly weaker competition, the 550D only shines in a couple of categories. It does have 18 megapixel resolution, the highest in this group and it does provide full HD video with the 24 fps option and the ability to use an external microphone. Image quality and low-light performance still lag the leaders in this group. The Nikon D5000 is another solid camera from Nikon that is showing its age. As a still-shot camera, it is still a good choice as it provides very good quality pictures. In terms of the whole package, it isn't quite a strong as the Sony because of the lack of full HD video. The Pentax K-r also appears to be a pretty good camera for still shots but like the Nikon, it lacks full HD Video and uses an odd 25 fps frame rate. It also doesn't provide the ability to use an external microphone.
The Panasonic and Olympus cameras are less expensive, smaller, and in the case of the Olympus, considerably lighter. The picture quality and the low-light peformance of these cameras is considerably below the competition. The Olympus may still be appealing to some people who are looking for an interchangeable lens camera that is smaller, lighter and cheaper.
The Canon 550D is a best seller and it is shown in this category and the Intermediate category. Even against this slightly weaker competition, the 550D only shines in a couple of categories. It does have 18 megapixel resolution, the highest in this group and it does provide full HD video with the 24 fps option and the ability to use an external microphone. Image quality and low-light performance still lag the leaders in this group. The Nikon D5000 is another solid camera from Nikon that is showing its age. As a still-shot camera, it is still a good choice as it provides very good quality pictures. In terms of the whole package, it isn't quite a strong as the Sony because of the lack of full HD video. 