Looking for sub 200 dslr

[illuminator3]

I’m looking for an upgrade for my Samsung sl30 point and shoot. I need one that isn’t more than five years old and that has at least 8 megapixels. Coming with its own lens is also a must. So far I have found: Sony Cybershot DSC-HX1, sony a200, Olympus SP-800UZ, and Panasonic DMC-FZ35 . Which one of these would be the best for a beginning photography college class. I would like one that has a good zoom level to take good macro shots. I would also prefer it to take sd cards, but I can live with cf cards or others. Please help me out.

 

[Derrel]

I think the Sony A200 would be "my" choice out of those contenders.

 

[SCraig]

If, as your title indicates, you want a DSLR then your only choice out of that group is the Sony A200. None of the others are DSLR's, they are all bridge cameras.

 

[rexbobcat]

I also would go with the A200.

You will probably have to buy a dedicated macro lens though to get 1:1 life size magnification.

Panasonic and Samsung don't really have the bet reputations for their DSLRs.

 

[illuminator3]

Ok, so forget I said slr, it doesn't matter as much as zoom level and ability to take good macro shots. Do you guys have recommendations of your own?

 

[panblue]

I agree the A200, but it's unlikely to come with more than the 18-70(?) kit lens. The FZs have built-in zoomg!

 

[MLeeK]

Well the sony DSC-HX1, Olympus and Panasonic aren't DSLR's at all, so I'd guess it's got to be the A200

 

[panblue]

Ok, so forget I said slr, it doesn't matter as much as zoom level and ability to take good macro shots. Do you guys have recommendations of your own?

Sony DSC-R1. Fairly dated camera (SLR, as I recall), but comes c/w Carl Zeiss T* Vario-Sonnar lens.
Probably about $150-200 price, these days.

'Macro' focus range: 35cm.

 

[panblue]

Canon Rebel/Nikon D40 kit lenses probably at least match the R1's macro @ 35cm
but the Zeiss lens on the R1 gives you greater range.

 

[MLeeK]

What are the requirements for the class you are talking?