Canon EOS Rebel XSi 12.2 Megapixel Digital SLR Camera Body Only - Black

Perfect balance between image resolution and noise

Strengths: Image quality, fast response, light weight, 12 megapixels

Weakness: Hand grip still too small; too many steps to get into some functions

I bought this camera after comparing its sensor and other features with those of the models before and after it. The 12.3 megapixel sensor is almost perfect for taking low noise images, just like the XTi before it. I do not need video function on a DSLR, therefore T1i with its larger sensor is not for me. The Xsi is much lighter and smaller that 40D and 50D, making it easier to carry and hold in...
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I bought this camera after comparing its sensor and other features with those of the models before and after it. The 12.3 megapixel sensor is almost perfect for taking low noise images, just like the XTi before it. I do not need video function on a DSLR, therefore T1i with its larger sensor is not for me. The Xsi is much lighter and smaller that 40D and 50D, making it easier to carry and hold in hand for long use. It has most of the features that photo enthusiasts need, such as depth of field and exposure bracketing. Live view works well, and the 3" screen is bright. The battery life is quite long as well. Mine is still full after 430 shots. This camera has the resolution that the kit lens often cannot match, so it makes sense to buy a body and then some good lens.

Cons:
The hand grip is longer than in XTi, but still not as comfortable in hand as with a D40/D60. Some functions, such as deleting an image, takes too many steps (3 pushes involving 3 different buttons). Custom white balance also takes a few steps. I'd prefer the one-step custom WB in SD880 IS (using a programmable button). However these are just minor things.

By soxfans - Jul 25, 2009

awesome camera for new parents

Strengths: fast shutter release; easy to use, yet many features to for experimentation

Weakness: would prefer to have the mode wheel

I have a few digital point and shoot, but none is fast enough to capture the priceless baby moments with my first kid. With another kid coming, we're sure not to miss any more.

Easy enough for a novice, yet has enough features for more serious amateurs. Perfect combination for me.

By hlchai - Jun 23, 2008

Great camera!

Strengths: light, quick, plenty of bells and whistles, cost

Weakness: none

We LOVE this camera! I bought one for me to replace a Panasonic. Then, we bought another one two weeks later. We also have a 20 D, and I see very little difference in the "D" series of cameras from the xsi except for speed. Since our business does not require taking photos of speeding bullets, we are very happy with the results of our work. It is great for American football, soccer, baseball,...
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We LOVE this camera! I bought one for me to replace a Panasonic. Then, we bought another one two weeks later. We also have a 20 D, and I see very little difference in the "D" series of cameras from the xsi except for speed. Since our business does not require taking photos of speeding bullets, we are very happy with the results of our work. It is great for American football, soccer, baseball, etc. It also is very good for portraits.

By anonymous; - Dec 28, 2008

Think twice!!!!!!

Strengths: Improved viewing, button placement & user interface is very good. EOS EFS lens mount and improved TTL improves the flexibilty for dedicated Canon users. (or if you already have gear)

Weakness: Image Quality Image Quality Image Quality Image Quality Image Quality Image Quality Image Quality Image Quality

Very poor image quality in the end result. A disappointing purchase. At 12 mega pixels, I would never have imagined that I would want to return a camera because the images were to pixelated!!!!!!
Buy a used 20D instead, you'll be far more happier with the results than with the 450D.
Software compression has ruined the results of the 450D.

By anonymous; - Jun 3, 2008

Canon XSi Notes

Strengths: Versatility, creative controls, shutter speed, auto focus speed, color accuracy, long battery life, sensor sensitivity in very low light, much more.

Weakness: fixed view screen, slow focus in live-view mode

Great product, especially for the cost. My first outing was a night time event with no flash allowed. I took over 1400 (yes 1400+) pictures on the single battery charge and the battery icon was still indicating full charge.!!!! I was also able to use shutter speeds up to 1/400th of a second with lots of zoom (70-300mm lens)in those low light conditions. The camera is fabulous for it's...
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Great product, especially for the cost. My first outing was a night time event with no flash allowed. I took over 1400 (yes 1400+) pictures on the single battery charge and the battery icon was still indicating full charge.!!!! I was also able to use shutter speeds up to 1/400th of a second with lots of zoom (70-300mm lens)in those low light conditions. The camera is fabulous for it's versatility, quality of images and ease of use. I consider this the best camera for the price, bar none.

By anonymous; - May 28, 2008