These are the best medium-format cameras under $500, chosen for their unique ability to bring big-format aesthetics and exceptional tonal depth into an approachable price range. While modern digital medium-format gear is far beyond this budget, several sturdy and creative film-based options deliver rich detail, compelling character, and a tangible larger-than-life feel that can transform your photographic vision—all without breaking the bank. Iconic modular systems like the Bronica SQ-A and Mamiya RB67 Pro-S stand out for offering interchangeable lenses, backs, and finders. You’ll find well-maintained examples trading hands between $300 and $500 these days, and each comes with the flexibility to grow your setup as your creative needs evolve. These cameras allow you to build a tailored system that works well into advanced—and artistic—shooting contexts. For those seeking compact yet capable medium-format tools, the Fujica GS645 rangefinders (6×45 format) are delightful. They are lightweight, include built-in bellows for close focusing, and deliver high-quality results with a discreet shooting experience—all for under $500 when found on the used market. On the simpler side, TLRs like the Lubitel series and Holga models remain beloved for their quirky film aesthetics and cost efficiency. These affordable medium-format options often fall below $200. They won’t offer perfect sharpness, but they do bring dreamy vignetting, light-leak charm, and a creative unpredictability that many artists find irresistible. If nostalgic, artful imperfection excites you over pixel perfection, box-lens cameras such as those from the Holga line deliver character-rich results and a low-pressure shoot-from-the-hip experience. They’re cheap, portable, and perfect for uncovering a different kind of photographic satisfaction. Whether you’re stepping into analog, experimenting with large negatives, or simply seeking wallet-friendly tools to unlock new textures and moods, these medium-format film cameras under $500 offer genuine visual rewards. They invite creative exploration, reward thoughtful composition, and bring the luxurious look of medium format to emerging artists eager to expand their vision.