SLR camera on Ebay?

[hmcfall711]

What are your thoughts on buying a SLR digital camera on Ebay? I think it would be a good in the budget capacity, but I am worried about getting ripped off on the quality of the camera.

I am worried that even if I buy a camera that was great from the manufacturer that it will have be damaged or not taken care of properly and be junk by now.

 

[Golf4food]

If it is brand new and significantly cheaper than most reputable websites, I'd think scam.

If it is older I would be concerned with shutter life (they don't keep going forever - someone who uses theirs a lot could wear it out after 10,000+ photos taken).

I would feel better about a used camera from a reputable camera forum/site where the people are serious and take care of their equipment.

If you just want one cheap, though, you could do your research and take your chances on one and hopefully get lucky.

 

[dansyr2514]

not an SLR but I bought a refurbished Olympus on ebay....it was sold through Olympus and I love it. I would check the feedback of the seller. Also, if you pay through paypal and the item was mis represented you can get your money back.

 

[eduk8r26]

I bought a Minolta a few years back that was used, and never had a problem.

 

[dansamy]

Adorama and B&H Photo also sell their demos and open box returns. I think they list them in their used category. They are both reputable companies for cameras and photo equipment.

 

[wtrmlnlabs]

Not sure what you're looking at as cheaper. I just got a Canon SLR for $409 just before Christmas, that was a fantastic deal for me, brand new. It's my first SLR, I have not wanted to spend the $$ but am way to picky about my image quality and I'm not getting it elsewhere.
But anyway, I have bought a couple non SLR's from eBay, used and refurbished, and I'll never do that again. I did well with my first one, about 3 years ago. It was a Kodak z710 refurbished, takes great pictures, 10x zoom LOVE it. When it started having focusing issues late summer we started looking. I bought another z710 (after returning several supposedly great top of the line cameras to stores) also refurbished. NOT as good. The pics are as good, the camera seems slow, I just wasn't happy with it. We picked up two used cameras, another smaller Kodak (for DS) and it was fine for a 6 y/o, not for me. Served it's purpose, but not pleased at all with it myself. Then I got a used Exilim on eBay. TOTAL waste of $$$$. It's going to DS3 since he's been watching brother and mom and wants one. It takes worthless pics, no matter what we do they're blurry or fuzzy. It worked well the first 2 months I had it, then went bad.
IF you are going to go the eBay way, I'd say make sure it's NEW and worth the risk. $400 wasn't really in our budget, but it was a very good deal I knew I was getting something new and worth every penny. I wouldn't expect to pay any less than that for one on eBay. But again, I'm not sure what kind you are looking at or what budget your are trying to fit in. (I'd also seen deals before the holidays as low as $300 on some lower brand SLR's)
Good luck, I know how frustrating making the switch, debating on the cost and all is!

 

[becky1960]

I have bought two new cameras on ebay over the years and had no problem, one was a high dollar Nikon. Check out your seller first..

 

[mickeysbestfriend]

a Fugi S1000 digital SLR off ebay when they first came out for $199 and even a few years later it was a great buy. It was new in box. I love the camera and we use it every time we vacation.

 

[tinkercat]

We bought our digital SLR (Canon Rebel Xti) on Ebay about 3 years ago and it is great. It arrived quickly and in perfect condition. We've never had a problem. We purchased from someone who had an Ebay store and great feedback. I wouldn't hesitate to do it again!

 

[surfgirl]

I would hesitate. I've purchased things (electronics) in the past from ebay sellers with high feedback... one was a cell phone and it turns out the home language was German. Every time it turns on, it starts out in German. I've switched the language settings to English, but it takes a few minutes.

Also, beware of gray market goods on ebay. They have a more limited warranty (and some aren't eligible).

I'm more wary of buying on ebay since I've heard so much bad.

Coincidentally, I'm also in the market for a new SLR. I've identified what I want and checked prices on amazon. I asked the local brick and mortar camera store and they told me they don't even compete. Actually, their prices are about $50 more for a lens and camera (total about $1,200). I'm happy to pay the extra $50 to keep them in business.... they are a great store!

 

[hmcfall711]

Thanks for the input. Seems to be the same 50-50 opinion I have been dealing with myself.

I have made good ebay electronic purchases before but I am looking for a Cannon Rebel or EOS and I think I would much rather go to the store and have the camera in my hand before I buy it, but the up to $200 lower price is making it hard.

I say one that said "new in box" but really sounded TOO GOOD to be true for the price. I don't know I may just hold off for a while before I buy one. My point and shoot is good, not great but it will do for now.

 

[cosmocricket]

several cameras from Ebay and had good luck every time. I bought a Nikon DSLR through an Ebay store Cameta Camera and was extremely happy with the purchase. I highly recommend Cameta Camera. They are located in New York and their customer service is AWESOME! I recently called them with some lens questions and they were very helpful and patient in answering all my questions. I wouldn't hesitate to buy from them again.