Why Cheap Digital Video Cameras Are So Popular & Tips To Buy Them

March 29, 2024

Trends Worth The Hype

The trendy "digicam" has gained popularity among influencers, TikTokers, and YouTubers. This trend includes footage reminiscent of our mothers in the 90s or the fuzzy, nostalgic frames akin to our grandfathers' old Super 8 film cameras. Currently, almost every professional filmmaker or aspiring videographer is embracing this style.

There's a valid reason for its popularity — the warm, fuzzy feeling we experience while watching this seemingly low-quality footage. It's inexplicably heartwarming, charming, and incredibly fun.

Creating stunning footage with a Sony FX3 is achievable for anyone, not to mention additional enhancements possible with Module 8 Tuners or Anamorphic Adapters, which can transform mundane footage into high-end cinema. However, the true emotional appeal lies in the nostalgia a cheap $50 digital camera evokes.

Gone are the days when investing $3,000 in a high-end Sony camera was the only option (although many cinephiles still love their expensive rigs). Nowadays, almost every hobbyist or professional creator has high-end equipment and budget-friendly point-and-shoot alternatives.

There's room for both.

I highly recommend it if you haven't seen Mia's incredible homage to her $25 Canon Digicam. It beautifully recreates old memories, appearing to be 20 years old, but only because they were shot with her mother's old, albeit low-quality, point-and-shoot. She unearthed it from a box in her parent's junk drawer, inserted a new SD card, and captured moments across various countries, parties, and events. The video is so captivating that I could watch it repeatedly.

Even the most discerning filmmakers can't deny the joy of watching old digital camera footage. The most renowned Hollywood cinema scenes draw inspiration from these basic devices' retro effects and static lines.

No Experience Needed

Best part? Cheap cameras are made for everyone. No skills needed, no experience required. Simply point, shoot, and enjoy the process.

For those who aren't professional filmmakers in need of high-spec equipment to match a rapid workflow, older and more budget-friendly models are ideal for beginners and amateurs. I'm a big advocate for purchasing older camera models because, in most cases (about 90% of the time), they perform almost as well as the latest gear but at a much more affordable price.

Tips For Buying an Older Digital Camera Online

You can often find cameras priced between $15 and $100 on eBay or Etsy, which is significantly cheaper than the newer models available on sites like Moment, B&H, or KEH Camera. Be aware, though, that some boutique sellers may inflate prices, a common occurrence at thrift stores and online shops nowadays. Fortunately, there's always the option of Goodwill!

It's important to understand that finding the right digital camera, especially online, requires patience. Just because a camera is inexpensive doesn't mean it's worth dealing with a scammy seller or a device that only partially works. You'll quickly learn to distinguish between websites or sellers simply looking to make a quick profit and those who genuinely stand by the quality of their products.

1. Where To Buy

eBay and Etsy are excellent choices, offering a vast selection, but many creators also sell through social media posts and platforms like Facebook Marketplace or Instagram Stories. Here are some other convenient places to look for quality options:

Depop
OfferUp
MPB (Music and Photo Buyer)
KEH Camera
Goodwill or other thrift stores
Local film or camera shops

2. Price-Check Before Buying

Unless you have a substantial amount of disposable income for cameras, bodies, or gear, it's crucial to do thorough research to avoid being duped by an inflated price or a deal that seems too good to be true. Determine a reasonable estimate of what you think the camera is worth and set a firm budget limit.

The availability of items can vary, but a quick search can provide you with current estimates of the standard used prices for the items you're interested in.

Before making a purchase, I recommend comparing prices across multiple websites. Identify the average and lowest prices to determine the best option for your needs.

However, don’t be solely tempted by the lowest prices. Pay close attention to each item's quality rating and description, and consider how these factors align with your expectations. Often, items priced suspiciously low may have cosmetic or mechanical issues. If a deal seems too good to be true, it likely is.

Another reason to be wary of extremely low prices is the possibility of the item being from the gray market, which typically means it lacks a factory warranty. The best way to verify this is to locate the serial number and cross-reference it with the camera manufacturer’s database.

3. Ask the Seller About the Functionality

Always make sure to verify that the camera is fully operational thoroughly. Request the seller to provide proof through photos or videos, if possible.

I've found it beneficial to research the camera on platforms like YouTube or Reddit to identify any unique characteristics or potential issues. Use this information to question the seller, testing their knowledge about the camera.

For example, I purchased a Fujifilm GA645 camera from eBay. Although the seller was convinced it would function properly, it arrived with a slightly damaged LCD screen. This issue compromised the entire camera, which is a key reason I remain cautious about purchasing fully electronic film camera bodies. I didn't do the research to find that this is a hugely common occurrence with this particular year and model camera, and I could have saved myself a ton of time and headache had I taken the time to delve further beforehand. Ultimately, I had to return it for a full refund, and it was a nearly month-long ordeal.

4. Review the Refund Policy

Ensure that the seller on eBay offers a return policy. This way, if the camera malfunctions, you'll be covered by eBay's Money-Back Guarantee, which entitles you to a full refund if the camera stops working within 30 days. If you purchased the camera off other sites, ensure there's a contractual agreement between you and the seller to establish a follow-up recourse should the camera arrive damaged.

5. Beware of "As-Is" Listings

Purchasing items listed "as-is" carries a risk. If the camera breaks, you won't have any recourse.

The "as-is" tag usually indicates that the camera body or lens interface requires some care and attention. Investing time in uncovering and fixing these issues post-purchase is not advisable unless you enjoy repairing cameras as a hobby.

6. Key Features and Quirks to Watch For

Like buying a used car, there are specific features and specifications to be aware of when purchasing a used digital camera. Get to know the device online plenty before making the purchase unless you're okay with taking the risk. And with your research, be specific with the year and exact model of the listing you're looking at.