Used Cameras: Best Places to Buy Online
Photo by Fujifilm North America.
Used cameras still carry some stigma. Understandably, would-be buyers worry about getting a below par product or being scammed. But, there are plenty of places online you can trust when buying a second-hand camera, and you can still often get that “shiny and new” experience. With that, we’re sharing the best places to buy used gear online.
Key Takeaways
MPB is the best used seller of photography gear in both North America and Europe.
Smaller retailers like Used Photo Pro are worthy of your attention and you can find some great deals.
You shouldn’t overlook eBay and Facebook Marketplace. Just be sure to do some research before spending your money.
Why Buy Used Cameras?
There are several benefits to buying used cameras like saving money and escaping toxic upgrade culture. Getting in the habit of buying used gear helps reduce the appeal of always needing the latest and greatest product. You start to appreciate what you have and understand even used gear can be quality.
Many photographers take care of their gear. Sometimes they decide to upgrade but that doesn’t mean their old system is past its sell by date. Buying used creates a positive culture of keeping good working cameras alive, instead of them being needlessly thrown away.
If you’re still not sold on buying second hand and want something new, check out our selection of the best cameras for photography. We cover several genres and budgets, so there’s something for everyone.
Our Selection of Where to Buy Used Cameras
Naturally, not all used dealers are the same and some are not as good as others. There’s a certain criteria we follow to ensure we’re sharing the best online places to purchase used gear.
We look at history and reputation, how a company deals with returns and what other users feel about specific online stores. We have also included stores we have used personally to buy used gear.
We’ll go into more detail about each service but below is an overview of our selection. A quick note, most of them apply to those based in the United States and Europe, as that’s where our expertise is.
eBay
Facebook Marketplace
Used Cameras: MPB
MPB opened in 2011 and serves both the North American and European markets. If a used camera comes their way, then it goes through a strict testing process before it goes on sale. According to the platform, they buy and sell over half a million items each year.
MPB puts up actual images of each of the pieces of gear it sells, rather than using stock photos. All purchases are covered by a six month warranty. We had to return a camera and the company switched it out no questions asked and gave us a part refund.
The customer service is second-to-none which is important when you're buying used gear. You can have peace of mind that you’re getting a reliable piece of hardware from a company that puts its customers first. The prices are fair too, both when you buy and sell cameras.
Used Cameras: KEH Cameras
KEH began dealing in used cameras way back in 1979. Thankfully it took its experience from the physical store to the online space. You can return your camera within 14 days, no questions asked and all purchases are covered by a six-month warranty.
The company claims you can find cameras for 40% cheaper than their retail cost. We did a bit of snooping and we did find some examples of this but it related more to older gear.
There’s a large variety of cameras too. All the big manufacturers are there and you can buy both digital and film, which should please fans of film photography. Aside from cameras, KEH has plenty of lenses, lighting gear, camera bags and cases.
Used Cameras: B&H Photo
Some may recognize B&H Photo as the place to buy the latest cameras - it is. But it also deals in used gear as well. You can go to a local store to purchase used items or buy it online and they’ll deliver right to your door. The warranty is shorter, only coming in at 90-days, so keep that in mind.
What’s cool about B&H Photo’s used store is that, because it’s so well known, they tend to have a wider range of stock. What’s great about this is that you can often find rare vintage cameras and cameras you’re unlikely to find on other platforms. Though for us, eBay remains the best space to find rare gems.
You can trade in your existing camera if you want to fund buying the used system. Users get an instant quote (how accurate it is depends on how well you describe the condition of the camera) and shipping it to B&H Photo is free.
Used Cameras: Used Photo Pro
Used Photo Pro is a small, independent used camera dealership. Everyone who works there is a passionate photographer and understands the importance of quality, well preserved photography gear.
The company has served its customers for over 65 years and has a very good reputation. One Google review noted, “A very nice experience. Helpful descriptions, rapid shipping, I'd say it was great customer service and attention”. While another said, “Used Photo Pro is the first place I look for used gear. Prices are good and they have a large inventory. Great place”.
The company also does rentals. This is a great way of getting to know more about a camera without making a long term commitment. And, if you do purchase a used system, you have a 14-day no hassle return option and you also have a 180-day warranty.
Used Cameras: US Camera Pro
US Camera Pro is run by Ellen and Justin Camp, a husband and wife from Dallas, Texas. They began selling gear in 2017, with an aim to provide affordable gear and to lead with good customer service.
They sell digital and film cameras, lenses and accessories. There’s some vintage gems in there too. The store itself is run through eBay. At the time of writing, the store has an overall rating of 99.9% from over 5000 buyers. That’s testament to their quality and their ability to deliver on their mission.
Should You Buy From eBay and Facebook?
You can find some great deals if you buy through eBay and Facebook. Although it may feel more risky, there are ways to ensure you’re buying from a trustworthy seller.
The backbone of eBay are the buyer reviews. If a seller has over 100 positive reviews then you know you’re onto a winner. Facebook Marketplace also has a space for reviews as well.
On Facebook Marketplace it’s worth checking out the seller's profile to see if it’s fake or not. Also, if a deal sounds too good to be true, then stay away as it’s not worth the risk.
eBay has buyer protection and you are covered if anything goes wrong with the camera within its warranty. There is less buyer protection on Facebook Marketplace. That’s not to say don’t use Facebook, but always be more cautious, especially if you’re spending a lot of money on a camera.
Things to Consider Before Buying Used Gear
Before investing in a used camera, there are certain things you should consider. Below is a checklist of requirements we advise following before buying your camera online.
Check shutter count - most systems are built for around 250,000 shots.
Ask for image samples to check for dust or sensor damage.
Ensure there are photos of all angles of the camera available.
Read the T&Cs - here you will find details on returns and warranty.
Go deep into reviews - don’t just read the first one or two, take time to learn about a used camera seller.
Signing Off
Hopefully you now have more confidence to buy second hand cameras online. As with brand new cameras, things can always go wrong. But, if you buy from a reputable seller then you should have no issues getting a replacement or full refund.
Take your time and compare prices between sellers. Overall, it’s great to give a used system a new lease of life. And, if it’s in full working order, there’s no reason to always buy a brand new, more expensive piece of kit.
If you’re a street photographer, check out the best camera for street photography. And if there’s someone young in your life showing an interest in the craft, check out our selection of the best camera for kids.
How do you feel about buying second hand cameras? Where do you buy used photography gear from? Let us know in the comments. Thanks for reading.
FAQs
Is it recommended to buy a used camera?
Yes. Buying a used camera is a good way to save money and benefit the environment. Just be sure to research a reseller first before committing to buying a camera.
How do I find a good used camera?
MPB is a good seller for both the North American and European markets. KEH and B&H Photo are also reputable sellers of used photography gear.
What to check before buying a second hand camera?
It’s important that you check the camera shutter count and any issues with the sensor. Make sure you read seller reviews before making a commitment.
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