A second hand DSLR can save you a large share of the new price — but only if the body is healthy. Cameras hide their wear well: a clean-looking body can have a tired shutter, a dusty sensor or a weak battery. Use these ten checks before you pay, whether you buy from a marketplace seller or a store.
1. Shutter count
The shutter is the camera's main moving part, and it has a rated life. Ask for the shutter count (the number of photos taken) and compare it with the model's rating — entry-level bodies are usually rated lower than pro bodies. A low count relative to the rating is a good sign; a count near the rating means a shutter replacement may be due.
2. Sensor condition
Set the aperture to f/16, photograph a plain white wall or the sky, and zoom in on the result. Dark specks are dust; streaks or marks that won't clean may be scratches. Dust can be cleaned; scratches cannot.
3. Dead or hot pixels
Take a photo with the lens cap on at a long exposure. Bright coloured dots that appear in the same place every time are hot pixels.
4. Autofocus
Focus on high-contrast and low-contrast subjects, using both the viewfinder and live view. Hunting, clicking or failure to lock suggests a focus or lens-mount problem.
5. LCD and buttons
Check every button and dial, the touchscreen (if any) and the LCD for dead areas, lines or burn-in. Rubber grips that peel are cosmetic, but they hint at heavy use.
6. Memory card slots and ports
Insert a card, shoot, and review. Check the USB and HDMI ports and the hot-shoe.
7. Battery and charger
Older batteries hold less charge. A genuine battery and charger add real value; third-party batteries are fine but should be priced accordingly.
8. Lens mount and kit lens
Look for a loose or scratched mount. If a kit lens is included, run the lens checks in our used lens guide.
9. Ownership and bill
Ask for the original bill or box where possible — it helps with resale later and confirms the camera isn't stolen.
10. Warranty
Marketplace sellers rarely offer any warranty. A store warranty is worth paying a little more for.
The easier way: buy it already checked
Every second hand camera from WorthyTen has already been through these checks. Grade A cameras are guaranteed under 10% used, all grades are fully functionally tested, and every unit has a 1-year warranty. The A / B / C grade only describes how the camera looks.
- Browse second hand cameras
- See our warranty
- In Tamil Nadu? See cameras in person at our showrooms in Coimbatore, Chennai, Trichy and Madurai.
Ready to sell your device?
Get an instant price in 60 seconds. Free pickup anywhere in Tamil Nadu.
Check Your Device Price →
