How to buy a camera or lens on sale
Cameras and lenses hold up well when they're cared for, so refurbished and open-box gear can be a good way to spend less. These are the things worth checking before you buy.
Pick the system first, then the body
Every interchangeable-lens camera uses a lens mount, and lenses only fit bodies with the same mount unless you add an adapter. Over time most people spend more on lenses than on the camera itself, so it pays to choose a system whose lenses you like and can afford. Check that the lenses you want are made for the exact mount, and for mirrorless versus DSLR versions of the same brand, since they often differ.
Buy refurbished or open-box from an authorized seller
Manufacturer-refurbished gear has been checked by the brand and usually comes with a warranty from the brand. Store-refurbished and open-box items are checked by the store, and the warranty depends on that store. Buying from a dealer the brand authorizes matters: gear from unauthorized or “gray market” sellers may have been meant for another country, and the brand may not repair it under warranty. Read the listing for who backs the warranty and for how long.
Ask about shutter count on used and refurbished bodies
Mechanical shutters wear out after a certain number of shots, and each maker rates its models differently. The shutter count tells you how much a camera has been used. Some sellers list it; if they don't, it's fair to ask. A low count is a good sign, but the condition of the sensor, screen and buttons matters too.
Check a lens for the problems that are hard to fix
For lenses, look for notes about scratches, haze, fungus or dust inside the glass, and test that autofocus and any image stabilization work. Small marks on the outside barrel rarely affect pictures, but problems inside the glass can.
See what's in the box
Refurbished and open-box cameras sometimes ship without the original battery, charger, strap or body cap. Spare batteries are worth budgeting for anyway, and you'll want a memory card fast enough for the video modes you plan to use. Check the camera's manual for the card types it supports.
Compare the exact model and kit
Cameras are often sold as a body only or as a kit with a lens, and the same name can cover several versions. Compare the full model name, the lens included and the region before deciding a price is good.
Know the return window
Test new-to-you gear right away: take photos at different settings, try every button and record some video. Check how many days you have to return it and who pays return shipping.
Guide updated October 22, 2026.